​Led by experienced local guides, this high-altitude adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Everest region, combining dramatic Himalayan landscapes with a carefully paced itinerary designed to support safe acclimatisation. The journey balances challenge and reward, offering a truly immersive trekking experience and a rare opportunity to connect with traditional Sherpa communities along the way.

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Your adventure begins and ends in Kathmandu, where ancient temples, vibrant markets, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites provide the perfect cultural counterpoint to the remote mountain trails. From the energy of Nepal’s capital to the serenity of turquoise alpine lakes beneath towering peaks, this trek delivers a rich blend of adventure, exploration, and cultural discovery.

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Itinerary for 2026 

• Friday 16 Oct:

Fly to Kathmandu​

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• Saturday 17 Oct: Arrival and transfer to hotel (20mins approx)

On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be met by our local team and transferred privately through the lively streets of Kathmandu to the Kathmandu Guest House, ideally located in the heart of Thamel.

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After settling in, your trek leader will host a full pre-trek briefing, followed by a short orientation walk through the neighbourhood to help you get your bearings.

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Included

Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House (3*) – deluxe room twin share

Meals: Welcome dinner

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• Sunday 18 Oct: Guided tour in Kathmandu in the morning. Drive to a hotel near Ramechhap Airport (Manthali) in the afternoon

After breakfast, enjoy a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu’s iconic World Heritage Sites:

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): One of the oldest stupas in the world, perched high above the Kathmandu Valley and revered by both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims.

• Kathmandu Durbar Square: A historic complex of temples and palaces, once home to Nepal’s royal family and the Living Goddess. Wander through the atmospheric lanes of Asan Bazaar, alive with colour, spices, and local life.

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After lunch, we leave the capital and drive via minibus through the Sun Koshi River Valley to Manthali, near Ramechhap Airport.

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Driving duration: 6hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Hotel (simple accommodation with en suite facility. Twin rooms)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Monday 19 Oct: Early morning flight to Lukla (20-25mins approx). Trek to Phakding (2610m)

An early morning flight brings us to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region and homeland of the Sherpa people. After meeting the full trekking crew, we strap on our packs and begin our hiking journey north, following the Dudh Koshi River through small settlements and forested trails.

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Lunch is taken en route at Thado Koshi, with impressive views of the Kusum Kanguru range, before continuing to Phakding.

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Trek duration: 2.5hrs approx.

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Tuesday 20 Oct: Trek to Namche (3440m)

The trail continues alongside the Dudh Koshi river, crossing suspension bridges and climbing steadily through rhododendron and pine forests. A final steep ascent brings us to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trading hub and cultural heart of the Khumbu.

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Spend the afternoon exploring the village, shops, bakeries, and viewpoints.

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​Trek duration: 6hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Wednesday 21 Oct: Acclimatisation day in Namchhe

A vital acclimatisation day, including a hike to the Everest Viewpoint and a circular walk through nearby villages. On clear days, enjoy your first views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

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Hike duration: 3-4hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Thursday 22 Oct: Trek to Phortse Tenga (3680m)

Leaving Namche, the trail climbs to Syangboche and Khumjung before contouring around the sacred Khumbila peak. After reaching Mong La, with expansive mountain views, we descend steeply to the Dudh Koshi River and continue to the peaceful settlement of Phortse Tenga.

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​​Trek duration: 5hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Friday 23 Oct: Trek to Dole (4100m)

A shorter day allows for continued acclimatisation. The trail climbs above the valley with superb views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kantega peaks as well as some impressive waterfalls. Beyond the treeline, the landscape opens out, and Cho Oyu appears in the distance before reaching the yak-herding communities of Tongba (4015m) and Gyele (4050m) and the village of Dole.

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Trek duration: 3hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Saturday 24 Oct: Trek to Machhermo (4410m)

Today’s route climbs steadily along the valley side, traversing sandy ridges high above the river before arriving at Machhermo, a small settlement surrounded by high peaks.

 

​​Trek duration: 3.5hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Sunday 25 Oct: Trek to Gokyo (4750m)

Climbing past Pangka and the Nilibuk cave, we ascend to the first of the stunning Gokyo Lakes. The vibrant turquoise waters, set beneath towering glaciers and peaks, marks one of the true highlights of the trek.

 

​Trek duration: 5hrs approx.

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Monday 26 Oct: Hike to Gokyo-Ri (5357m). Trek to Nha La (4400m)

A pre-dawn ascent of Gokyo Ri rewards early risers with panoramic Himalayan views, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.  The ascent itself takes around 2hrs at a very slow pace and around 1.5hrs to descend when we will stop for a well earned lunch.  We'll then follow a quieter trail past the lakes to the remote settlement of Nha La.

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Trek duration: 7- 8hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Tuesday 27 Oct: Trek to Phortse Gaon (3800m)

Taking a high, less-travelled route, we reach Phortse Gaon, an authentic Sherpa village perched on a broad terrace. Home to many renowned climbers, this village offers a fascinating insight into traditional mountain life.

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Trek duration: 5hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Wednesday 28 Oct: Trek to Namchhe (3440m)

Descending from Phortse Gaon, we rejoin the main trail at Kenjoma and follow familiar paths back to Namche.

 

​Trek duration: 5.5hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Thursday 29 Oct: Trek to Lukla (2800m)

Retrace your steps along the Dudh Koshi, passing Monjo before climbing gently back to Lukla. In the evening, celebrate the end of the trek with your guides and porters.

 

​Trek duration: 7.5hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Basic Lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Friday 30 Oct: Early morning flight back to Ramechhap (Manthali). Drive back to Kathmandu

Return flight to Manthali followed by a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Enjoy a final group dinner to reflect on the journey.

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Driving duration: 6hrs approx

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Included

Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House (3*) – deluxe twin room

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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• Saturday 31 Oct: Depart Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport for onward international flights.

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Flights back home, filled with an immense sense of pride and memories to last a lifetime.

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Included

Transfer: From the Hotel to Kathmandu Airport at designated time.
Meals: Breakfast only

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Cost*:  

Deposit on booking - £700.00

15 July 2026 - £500.00

15 August 2026 - £500.00

15 September 2026 - £465.00

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Total cost - £2,165.00

* All costs are non refundable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Trip Grading:

This is a non-technical but challenging high-altitude trek, involving long walking days, steep ascents and descents, and altitudes exceeding 5,300m. A strong fitness base, determination, and a positive mindset are essential. Trekking poles are highly recommended.

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Kit list:

Download the recommend kit list here

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Weather:

Daytime temperatures in Kathmandu will usually exceed 20°C (68°F). On the trek, the weather is generally mild, with clear skies and stunning mountain views. However, at higher altitudes, the days can become cold and windy, and temperatures at night can drop as low as -10°C (14°F) or lower, particularly in late November.

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As you progress on the Gokyo Ri via Gokyo Lakes Trek, expect a wide range of weather conditions—from mild, sunny days at lower altitudes to cold, brisk winds and freezing temperatures at higher elevations. Proper layering and preparation for varying weather are key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.

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Group size:

Minimum group size = 8

Maximum group size = 10​​​​​

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What's included:

Pre-trip:

• Personalised trip support in the lead up to your trek.

• Trek training guide

• Public liability insurance

• Financial Protection for your booking

• Monthly payment plan available

• Risk assessment and emergency management planning​

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During our trip:

• Local English speaking guide throughout the trip, Assistant Guide/s (2 Assistant Guides for 8-10 pax), 1 porter for every 2 trekkers

• Accommodation: 2 nights in Kathmandu Guest House, 1 night simple local hotel in Ramechhap (near to airport) and 11 nights in basic teahouses/lodges on the trek

• Meals: Breakfast x 14, Lunch x 13, Dinner x 14

• Transport: Arrival & Departure airport transfers at one nominated time. Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Kathmandu – Ramechhap Airport – Kathmandu

• Internal flights: Ramechhap – Lukla – Ramechhap

• Activities/tours: Guided tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, 11 day trek

• Applicable entry fees/permits: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, Everest National Park fee, Everest region local development fee

• Safety/ Emergency equipment: 1 x Gamow bag, 1 x Oxygen cylinder, 1 x Oximeter, Satellite phone

• All trip management before, during and post trek.

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What's not included:

• International flights and airport transfers in Nepal

• Travel insurance (mandatory) that covers high altitude trekking and helicopter evacuations

• Any activities/ tours/ visits not mentioned in the itinerary and in the above inclusion list

• Visa – please refer to:  https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/nepal 

• Vaccination/s. Please refer to: https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/asia-east/nepal

• Personal spending money and drinks

• Meals not listed in your itinerary

• Beverages, drinking water

• Snacks, electrolytes, water purification tablets

• Charges levied by teahouses for hot shower, battery charging, etc

• Kit and equipment as listed on your kit list

• Any personal medication

• Tips/ gratuities if considered earned for guide, assistant guide, climbing guide, porters, expedition crew, drivers & hotel staff

• Single room supplement where available

• Any associated costs if leaving the trek early.

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Accommodation (Teahouses):

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Teahouses in the Everest region are simple but comfortable, and it’s important to have realistic expectations when trekking in remote mountain environments. Lodges typically provide foam mattresses, a basic dining room, and shared toilet facilities.

The heart of each teahouse is the communal dining room, often decorated with colourful traditional rugs and, in some lodges, a stove or heater (a small charge may apply). Due to local environmental regulations, many lodges above 3,000m do not use heating. On occasion, kerosene burners may be available to warm common areas; however, due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, we do not recommend their use and your leader will not offer this option.

Most teahouses sell a small selection of snacks and essentials such as tissues, soap, and toilet paper. Electricity is available in the majority of lodges, though supply can be unreliable, and lighting is often limited — a head torch is essential. Charging facilities are generally available in the dining room only and are charged at approximately NPR 150–350 per hour, per device. Many lodges rely on solar power, so charging may not always be possible. Wi-Fi is now available in some areas, but connections can be slow and inconsistent.

Bedrooms are predominantly twin-share, although during peak trekking periods there may occasionally be three people to a room for one night. Rooms are unheated and can become cold overnight, so you will need to bring or hire a suitable sleeping bag. Beds are provided with foam mattresses, sheets, and a pillow.

Most lodges have one or two basic toilets, sometimes located outside the main building. Facilities are usually Asian-style squat toilets, although some lodges now have Western seated toilets. Toilet paper is not provided and should be brought with you or purchased locally. Please dispose of used paper in the bin provided rather than flushing it. Where there is no flush handle, a container of water will be available — if empty or frozen, please refill it or notify lodge staff.

Some lodges offer hot ‘showers’ for an additional charge (approximately NPR 250–500). In many cases this may be a bucket of hot water rather than a shower head.

Standards of cleanliness vary, particularly during peak season and in winter when water may freeze overnight. Please report any issues to your leader or lodge staff. Good personal hygiene is essential — use soap or hand sanitiser regularly, especially before meals and after handling money. As a general rule, the higher you trek, the more basic the facilities become and the more expensive food and services are.

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​​Food & Drink:

FOOD: Breakfast x 14, Lunch x 13, Dinner x 14

 

Breakfast in teahouses typically includes a choice of bread (toast, chapatti, or Tibetan bread), eggs (boiled, fried, or omelette), and either muesli or porridge, along with tea or coffee. On some days, breakfast choice may be limited and may consist of a trekkers’ breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans, and toast) or pancakes with jam or honey. These options are only included where they can be guaranteed. Additional items may be ordered directly from the teahouse menu and paid for separately.

In more remote locations, menu choices may be limited due to weather conditions, supply delays, or a high number of trekkers.

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Lunch is taken at teahouses along the trail, with guides sometimes placing orders in advance to minimise waiting time. Dinner is eaten at the lodge where you stay overnight, as is customary in Nepal, with room rates based on guests dining at the teahouse.

Menus across the region are generally similar and offer a wide range of options, from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to simple Western-style dishes such as pasta, pizza, and apple pie. Dhal bhat is Nepal’s staple meal and usually includes lentil soup, vegetables or meat, rice, and pickle. Momos (Nepalese dumplings) are another popular option, available steamed or fried.

 

Although meat is available, we advise against eating it on trek, as it is often transported from lower altitudes without refrigeration and can increase the risk of stomach illness. Germs can also be transferred via handling money, so regular use of hand sanitiser is strongly recommended.

Trekkers with gluten-free diets should bring additional snacks to supplement meals, as options are limited, particularly for breakfast. Many soups contain gluten. Gluten-free breakfast options are generally limited to vegetable fried rice and eggs, and on specific days, a modified trekkers’ breakfast. Vegan breakfast options are limited to muesli or porridge with water, and on specific days, vegetable fried rice. Lactose-intolerant trekkers will have similar options, with eggs available daily.

Imported food and drinks purchased on trek can be expensive. We recommend bringing some snacks from home or purchasing locally in Nepal to support local communities. Please minimise packaging and avoid unnecessary waste.

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Water

Staying well hydrated is essential, particularly at altitude. We recommend drinking at least 3–4 litres of water per day while trekking.

We strongly discourage the purchase of bottled water due to its environmental impact. Teahouses sell boiled water for approximately NPR 150–300 per litre (prices increase with altitude), which is safe to drink and ideal for filling bottles at night, where it can also be used as a hot water bottle (we recommend using a nalgene bottle for this which is on the kit list).

Untreated tap or stream water should not be consumed.​

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Altitude:

Trekking above 2,500m requires your body to adapt to reduced oxygen levels. This itinerary has been carefully designed with gradual ascents and dedicated acclimatisation days, such as in Namche Bazaar, to support safe adaptation. Despite this, some trekkers may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches, fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, disturbed sleep, or loss of appetite.

Everyone acclimatises differently. While mild symptoms are common, our experienced leaders and crew are trained to recognise and manage Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Altitude awareness and prevention strategies will be covered during your pre-trek briefing.

To reduce the risk of AMS: drink 3–5 litres of water daily, avoid alcohol, limit caffeine, walk slowly, stay warm, and eat regularly. If you have any medical conditions or take medication that may affect acclimatisation, consult your doctor before booking. Your leader’s decisions regarding ascent or descent are made with your safety as the highest priority and must be respected.

 

​Visa:

A visa is required to enter Nepal.

You may apply online for a visa on arrival up to 15 days before travel. Using your receipt, you will collect and pay for the visa at the airport. Alternatively, visas can be completed on arrival using airport terminals. Payment by card is possible, but cash (preferably USD) is recommended as a backup.

You may also apply in advance through the Nepalese Embassy in the UK or another country, which can reduce time spent at immigration.

Overstaying a visa in Nepal is a serious offence and may result in fines or imprisonment.

 

​Vaccinations:

No vaccinations are mandatory for Nepal. However, recommended vaccinations may include tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, cholera, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, and tuberculosis. A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from or transiting through a country with yellow fever risk.

Some travellers may require proof of polio vaccination. Please consult your GP or travel health professional at least eight weeks prior to departure, or refer to the NHS “Fit for Travel” website.

There is minimal malaria risk in Nepal, and antimalarial medication is not usually required. Dengue fever is present, and precautions such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent are advised.

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​Severe Allergies

If you have a severe allergy, you must inform us at the time of booking. While we will do our best to assist, we cannot guarantee an allergy-free environment. You must carry your own medication, including adrenaline auto-injectors, as these are not provided. Please inform your leader on arrival and advise them where your medication is stored.

 

​Emergencies:

Our leaders and crew carry satellite phones, radios, and mobile phones for emergency communication. They are fully trained to manage emergency situations. In such circumstances, please follow your leader’s instructions and refrain from posting on social media.

If you are unable to continue the trek, your leader will arrange appropriate support, which may include vehicle transfer (where accessible) or transport to suitable accommodation or a medical facility, depending on the situation.​​​​​