Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley TrekAma Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek

Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek

Gokyo Valley Trek via Ama Dablam Base Camp
  • Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5360 meters/17585 feet
  • Starts Lukla
  • Ends Lukla
  • Group Size 1 - 12
  • Best Season Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$1690
2 - 3 paxUS$1490
4 - 7 paxUS$1290
8 - 12 paxUS$1190
Price Per PersonUS$1690All-inclusive services
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Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek Highlights
  • Thrilling mountain flight to Lukla offering aerial views of the Himalayas.
  • Explore the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar, with cafes, shops, museums, and incredible views of Everest.
  • Visit the most famous monastery in the Khumbu region, Tengboche Monastery.
  • Hike to the less-traveled trail to the base of one of the most iconic and beautiful mountains in the world, Ama Dablam.
  • Reach the serene Gokyo Lakes surrounded by snowy peaks and tranquility.
  • Climb Gokyo Ri, one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region with 360° views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Cross the challenging but rewarding Renjo La Pass with breathtaking Himalayan panoramas and fewer crowds.
  • Walk through lush valleys, alpine forests, high passes, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes all in one trek.

Ama Dablam Base Camp With Gokyo Valley Trek Overview

The Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek is a spectacular high-altitude adventure that combines the dramatic Ama Dablam Base Camp with the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and the challenging Renjo La Pass. Instead of following the classic Everest Base Camp route from start to finish, this journey takes you deeper into the quieter corners of the Khumbu.

Your journey begins with the iconic flight to Lukla before winding through the lively streets of Namche Bazaar, peaceful mountain villages, rhododendron forests, and the spiritual surroundings of Tengboche. From there, the trail leads toward the foot of Ama Dablam (6,812 meters) before turning west toward the remote Phortse area and eventually into the spectacular Gokyo Valley.

What makes this Ama Dablam and Gokyo trek particularly rewarding is the variety packed into one route. You get the chance to stand beneath one of Nepal's most recognizable mountains, explore sacred high-altitude lakes, climb a famous Himalayan viewpoint, and cross a 5,360-meter mountain pass. On top of it, you experience Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, yak pastures, glaciers, and some seriously impressive mountain views.

What Makes This Ama Dablam And Gokyo Valley Trek Special?

Reach Ama Dablam Base Camp

One of the biggest highlights of the trek is the detour toward Ama Dablam Base Camp, where you leave the more established Everest trail and head into a quieter alpine landscape beneath the 6,812-meter Ama Dablam.

The approach begins around Pangboche, one of the important Sherpa settlements in the upper Khumbu. From the village, the trail gradually moves away from the busier trekking corridor and into open yak pastures and alpine terrain. The surrounding landscape becomes increasingly rugged as you climb, with rocky paths, sparse vegetation and enormous mountain walls replacing the greener scenery below.

You may have already seen the mountain from Namche, Tengboche and Pangboche, but seeing it from much closer is an entirely different experience. Its distinctive pyramid-like form rises dramatically above the surrounding landscape, with steep ridges and hanging glaciers.

The final approach can feel demanding because of the altitude and increasingly rocky terrain. Your pace naturally slows, your breathing becomes more deliberate, and every small rise seems to reveal a bigger section of the mountain. Eventually, you arrive at the broad alpine area used as Ama Dablam Base Camp.

Here, Ama Dablam dominates the scene, while Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kangtega, and other peaks rise across the surrounding skyline. During climbing seasons, you may also encounter mountaineers and expedition activity around the base camp.

Gokyo Valley And The Sacred Gokyo Lakes

After exploring the Ama Dablam side of the Khumbu, the route takes you toward Gokyo Valley, where the landscape becomes noticeably more remote and alpine.

The approach to Gokyo is an experience in itself. The trail climbs through increasingly sparse vegetation, past alpine settlements and waterfalls, until the green valleys begin to disappear beneath a landscape of rock, ice and snow. The turquoise Gokyo Lakes eventually emerge against this stark backdrop.

The Gokyo Lakes form a chain of glacial lakes at roughly 4,700 meters and above, fed by the surrounding glaciers and snowfields. The valley is also associated with the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. For many of you, the first sight of the lakes may be one of the defining moments of the journey.

The water can appear deep blue or turquoise depending on the light and weather, while snow-covered mountains rise around the valley. During summer, yak pastures around the settlement add a little life and colour to an otherwise stark high-altitude environment. The lakes are also considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. 

At the centre of this landscape sits Gokyo Village, a small settlement surrounded by enormous mountains. Compared with Namche, it feels much quieter and more remote. The stone-built lodges sit beside the lakes.

Climbing Gokyo Ri

The ascent begins from Gokyo Village and follows a steep, rocky trail toward the ridge above the valley. At this altitude, even a relatively short climb can feel serious. Your breathing becomes heavier, your steps become slower, and the cold morning air makes the effort feel even more noticeable. But the scenery changes with every few metres of elevation.

As you climb higher, the Gokyo Lakes gradually appear below, while the surrounding mountains rise into view. The enormous Ngozumpa Glacier stretches across the valley. When you reach the summit on a clear morning, the effort suddenly makes sense.

From Gokyo Ri, you can see an extraordinary Himalayan panorama featuring Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, along with Cholatse and numerous surrounding peaks. The Gokyo Lakes and glacier lie below, while the enormous mountain ranges seem to stretch endlessly in every direction.

This is also one of the reasons the Gokyo route appeals to you, if you want sweeping mountain views rather than simply reaching a famous base camp. Gokyo Ri gives you a high vantage point over the landscape you have just walked through.

And if you reach the top around sunrise, you get the added spectacle of the first light gradually touching the Himalayan peaks.

Renjo La Pass: The High-Altitude Challenge

After Gokyo, the adventure takes another turn with the crossing of Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters. This is one of the most challenging sections of the route, particularly because you are already deep into a high-altitude trek. The trail climbs away from Gokyo through increasingly barren terrain, with rocks, boulders, scree and, depending on the season, snow and ice underfoot.

Vegetation becomes almost nonexistent as you approach the pass. The colourful forests from the lower Khumbu are now replaced by a stark landscape of rock, snow, glaciers, and enormous mountain walls.

The climb is not technical, but the combination of steep ascent, altitude, cold, and uneven terrain demands patience. You may find yourself taking shorter steps and more frequent breaks as you approach the top.

From the pass, the landscape spreads dramatically in front of you. You can look back toward the Gokyo Valley and the mountains surrounding it, while the view beyond opens toward the remote Bhote Koshi and Thame areas. On clear days, the panorama includes major Himalayan peaks such as Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

After crossing the pass, the character of the trek changes once again. You descend toward the quieter Bhote Koshi Valley and Lungdhen, where dry slopes, traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and rugged mountain scenery replace the bright lakes of Gokyo.

Sherpa Villages, Monasteries And Mountain Culture

The mountains may dominate your photographs, but the Sherpa culture of the Khumbu gives this trek much of its character.

The trail passes through communities where traditional Buddhist practices and mountain life remain closely connected. Stone houses, mani walls, prayer wheels, chortens, and colourful prayer flags become familiar sights as you move deeper into the region.

Namche Bazaar is the liveliest of these settlements. Built into a steep mountainside, the town is the commercial and cultural hub of the Khumbu, with bakeries, cafés, shops, museums, and trekking stores sitting alongside traditional homes. It is also where the dramatic mountain scenery first starts to feel truly Himalayan.

Further along, the atmosphere changes at Tengboche. The village sits amid forests and open mountain slopes, with Tengboche Monastery standing as one of the most important Buddhist centres in the region. From here, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, Everest, and Lhotse create an extraordinary mountain backdrop. The monastery and its surroundings provide a quieter, more spiritual experience after the busy trails around Namche.

Beyond Tengboche, villages such as Pangboche and Phortse offer a more intimate look at life in the high Himalayas. Phortse, in particular, is known for its strong mountaineering tradition and its location away from the main trekking corridor.

Here, yak herders move between pastures, locals tend to fields and livestock, prayer flags snap in the mountain wind, and the pace of village life feels considerably slower than in Kathmandu.

Wildlife And Flora Along The Route

One of the less-talked-about pleasures of this trek is watching the landscape change biologically as well as visually. At lower elevations around Lukla, Phakding, and Namche, the trail passes through pine, fir, rhododendron, and juniper forests. In spring, rhododendrons can bring colour to the hillsides, while birds such as the Himalayan monal and other pheasants inhabit the forested areas.

As you climb toward Tengboche, Pangboche, and Ama Dablam Base Camp, the forest becomes thinner and more open. Alpine shrubs, mosses, grasses, and other hardy plants replace the dense woodland.

Wildlife becomes harder to spot but no less fascinating. Himalayan tahr, musk deer, marmots, and high-altitude birds inhabit parts of the region, while yaks are a familiar sight around villages and grazing areas. The Khumbu is also home to elusive species such as the snow leopard, although seeing one in the wild would be an exceptionally rare encounter.

A Less-Crowded Alternative to the Classic Everest Route

If you are comparing this route with the Everest Base Camp Trek, the biggest difference is variety. The classic EBC route takes you toward the world's highest mountain and gives you the iconic experience of reaching Everest Base Camp. The Ama Dablam and Gokyo route takes a different approach: instead of focusing on one destination, it combines several major attractions across the Khumbu.

You get the dramatic Ama Dablam Base Camp, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, the panoramic Gokyo Ri, and the high-altitude crossing of Renjo La. You also experience quieter sections around Phortse, Gokyo, and the Bhote Koshi Valley, alongside the more established settlements of Namche and Tengboche.

The result is a trek with a strong sense of progression. The scenery does not simply become "more mountains" as you climb. It changes from forest to meadow, meadow to alpine wilderness, alpine wilderness to glacier, and finally to stark high-pass terrain.

That variety is what makes this route so appealing for experienced trekkers and anyone looking for a different way to explore the Everest region. You still get Everest, Sherpa villages, monasteries, and enormous Himalayan horizons, but you also get Ama Dablam up close, turquoise Gokyo Lakes, a 5,357-meter viewpoint, a 5,360-meter pass, remote valleys, and alpine wildlife.

Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek Cost

The Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek costs USD 1,690 per person. The price covers the major logistics of the journey, including accommodation in Kathmandu and along the trekking route, round-trip flights to Lukla, required trekking permits, three meals a day during the trek, and the services of a government-trained, English-speaking local guide. It also includes airport transfers, a complimentary welcome dinner, and several essential trekking items, so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the Himalayas.

However, the cost does not cover your international airfare or Nepal visa fee. Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are also excluded, as are personal expenses, city sightseeing, and entrance fees for temples, monasteries, museums, or other attractions. A porter can be arranged for an additional USD 375 if you would rather not carry your main trekking bag yourself.

Permits Required For The Everest Region Trek

Two permits are required for this Gokyo Valley and Ama Dablam Base Camp trek: the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Both are checked at designated checkpoints along the route.

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: It costs NRs 3,000 per person and is issued by the local government of the Khumbu region. You need to obtain it in person after reaching Lukla, as this permit cannot be purchased in Kathmandu in advance.
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: It also costs NRs 3,000 per person. You can obtain it from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu before beginning the trek or from the official entry point at Monjo along the Everest trekking route.

If you are trekking through a registered agency, the team assists with the necessary permit arrangements so you don't have to play permit-office detective before heading into the mountains.

Hiring A Guide And Porter For Gokyo Valley And Ama Dablam Base Camp

A licensed trekking guide is an important part of a safe and well-organized high-altitude trek in the Everest region. Your guide helps with navigation, accommodation arrangements, local logistics, and altitude safety while also giving you a deeper understanding of Sherpa culture, traditions, and the Himalayan environment. They can also monitor your condition at higher elevations and assist with emergencies or altitude-related problems when necessary.

The average cost of a licensed trekking guide is around USD 35 per day, generally covering their salary, meals, and insurance. Guides working in the Khumbu are familiar with the local trails, mountain conditions, villages, and customs.

A porter carries your main luggage so you can trek with a lighter daypack. This can make a noticeable difference on long walking days and steep high-altitude sections, allowing you to conserve energy for the trail rather than spending it all arguing with your backpack. The average porter cost is USD 25 per day, which generally covers their salary, meals, and insurance. A porter can typically carry up to 20 kg of luggage

Guide and porter costs are not included in the standard package price unless specifically stated in your booking. Tipping is also separate from their daily wages. As a general guideline, you can commonly tip around 15% to 20% of the total trekking package cost, with the final amount depending on the quality of service, effort, and your overall experience.

How To Book The Ama Dablam And Gokyo Valley Trek?

To confirm your reservation, you only need to pay a 10% deposit of the total trek cost. Along with the deposit, you need to provide a copy of your passport and, if already available, your flight details so we can prepare the necessary arrangements for your arrival and trek.

For convenience, the booking deposit can be paid online through our official website using the available payment options. Once your payment has been processed, you receive an automatic payment receipt in your email for your records. The remaining balance can be paid after you arrive in Nepal.

After your booking is confirmed, our team coordinates the essential arrangements for your trip, including accommodation, trekking permits, domestic flights, guide services, and other services included in your package. We also provide the necessary pre-trek information to help you prepare for the high-altitude journey.

Useful Information

Difficulty Of The Ama Dablam And Gokyo Valley Trek

The Ama Dablam and Gokyo Valley Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek that requires good physical fitness, endurance, and the ability to adapt to changing altitude and mountain conditions. You do not need technical mountaineering skills or previous climbing experience, but previous experience with multi-day trekking is highly recommended, especially if you have not trekked above 4,000 meters before.

Most days involve around 5 to 7 hours of walking, although some sections can take longer depending on the trail, weather, your pace, and altitude. The route includes gradual climbs through forests and villages, steep uphill sections, rocky alpine trails, glacial terrain, and demanding high-altitude stretches. The approach to Ama Dablam Base Camp, the climb to Gokyo Ri, and the crossing of Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters are among the more physically demanding parts of the journey.

Here, you are dealing with a combination of high altitude, steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, cold temperatures, and several consecutive days of walking. As you climb higher, the thinner air means your body has to work harder even when you are walking at a slower pace. That said, the trek is designed with acclimatization in mind, allowing your body time to adjust as you gain elevation. Walking slowly, staying hydrated, eating properly, getting enough rest, and following your guide's advice can make a significant difference.

You can also prepare well before arriving in Nepal. Regular cardio training, uphill walking, stair climbing, hiking, and strength exercises for your legs and core can help build the endurance needed for long trekking days. If you are comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days and have prepared properly for high altitude, the challenge becomes much more manageable.

Altitude And Its Effects Along The Route

Altitude is the biggest challenge on the Ama Dablam Base Camp and Gokyo route. The trek starts at around 2,860 meters in Lukla and gradually climbs to approximately 4,600 meters at Ama Dablam Base Camp, 5,357 meters at Gokyo Ri, and 5,360 meters at Renjo La Pass.

As elevation increases, atmospheric pressure decreases, and there is less oxygen available with each breath. Your body needs time to adjust to this change, which is why acclimatization is essential on high-altitude treks in the Everest region.

You may experience mild symptoms such as headache, tiredness, reduced appetite, dizziness, or shortness of breath while your body adjusts. These symptoms should never be ignored if they become severe or start getting worse. More serious forms of altitude illness can be dangerous, so it is important to inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell rather than trying to push through it.

The risk becomes particularly relevant above 3,000 meters, and the demanding sections around Gokyo Ri and Renjo La require extra care because you are spending time above 5,000 meters. The best approach is simple: ascend gradually, walk at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, eat enough, and allow your body time to acclimatize.

Your trekking guide monitors your condition throughout the journey and can advise you if you show signs of altitude sickness. If symptoms become serious, the safest response may be to descend to a lower elevation, and emergency evacuation arrangements can be made when necessary. Our guides also carry pulse oximeter and Diamox to help in altitude-related emergencies.

It is also worth remembering that fitness does not make you immune to altitude sickness. Someone who runs marathons can still struggle at 5,000 meters, while a slower but well-acclimatized trekker may cope perfectly well.

Best Time For The Ama Dablam Base Camp And Gokyo Valley Trek

Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for this high-altitude trek, offering the best overall combination of weather, trail conditions, and Himalayan views.

From March to May, spring brings warmer days, clearer mornings, and colourful landscapes to the lower sections of the Khumbu. The forests around Lukla, Phakding, Namche, and Tengboche gradually come alive with blooming rhododendrons, while pine, fir, and juniper forests add plenty of greenery to the trail. It is also a good season for spotting Himalayan birds and, with some luck, wildlife such as Himalayan tahr and musk deer.

Higher sections around Ama Dablam Base Camp, Gokyo Ri, and Renjo La Pass remain cold, particularly early in spring, and snow can still be present around the high passes. Conditions generally become milder as the season progresses.

Autumn, from September to November, is often considered the best overall period for trekking in the Everest region. The monsoon has cleared much of the dust and haze from the atmosphere, leaving crisp mountain views and deep blue skies. The peaks around Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu can appear remarkably sharp against the clear horizon.

October and November are particularly popular for the Gokyo Valley and Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek, due to generally dry trails and stable weather. These conditions are especially valuable when tackling the high-altitude sections, where poor visibility or heavy snowfall can make an already demanding trail considerably harder.

Both seasons do come with a catch: they are also the busiest trekking periods in Nepal. Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Gokyo, and other popular settlements can become lively with trekkers, guides, and porters. Accommodation can also fill quickly, so booking your trek in advance is wise if you are travelling during peak season.

Is Winter Trekking On Everest Possible?

Winter lasts from December to February and is the coldest period for trekking in the Khumbu; however, it is possible to trek during this season. Temperatures drop significantly as you climb higher, with nights at high elevations often falling well below freezing. Snow can cover parts of the trail, particularly around Gokyo Ri and Renjo La Pass, while icy conditions can make steep sections more demanding.

The biggest advantage is the lack of crowds. The popular trails become noticeably quieter, giving you a more peaceful experience of the Himalayas. Fresh snowfall can also make Ama Dablam, Gokyo Valley, and the surrounding peaks look spectacular.

However, winter requires considerably more preparation. You need warm, properly layered clothing, a suitable sleeping bag, and appropriate footwear for potentially snowy and icy conditions. The Renjo La crossing at 5,360 meters can be particularly challenging if heavy snowfall has affected the pass.

Shorter daylight hours and unpredictable mountain weather can also affect the daily trekking schedule. For this reason, winter is better suited to experienced trekkers who are comfortable with cold-weather, high-altitude conditions and have some flexibility in their itinerary.

If your priority is fewer people and a true winter Himalayan experience, it can be rewarding. If your priority is easier trail conditions and consistently clear weather, spring or autumn is the better choice.

How Is Monsoon For The Trek To Ama Dablam And Gokyo Valley?

Monsoon falls between June and August and is generally the least favourable season for this trek. Heavy rainfall affects the lower regions of Nepal, while cloud cover can obscure the mountain views that make the Khumbu so spectacular.

The lower trails can become wet, muddy, and slippery, with increased risks of landslides and trail disruptions in some areas. Leeches can also appear in the wetter, lower-altitude sections. As you climb higher, rain generally gives way to colder conditions, but clouds can still linger around the mountains and reduce visibility.

Another consideration is the Kathmandu to Lukla flight. Monsoon weather can cause delays or cancellations, so you should allow extra flexibility in your travel schedule if trekking during this period.

There are still a few advantages. The trails are considerably quieter, and the lower valleys can look lush and green after the rainfall. However, if your main goal is to enjoy unobstructed views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Gokyo Lakes, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks, the monsoon is not the most reliable choice.

How To Get To Lukla For The Ama Dablam And Gokyo Valley Trek?

The Ama Dablam and Gokyo Valley trek begins with a flight to Lukla, which is the main gateway to trekking routes in Nepal’s Khumbu region. The flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla takes around 35 minutes, depending on weather and air traffic. It is a short journey, but it is hardly an ordinary one.

As the aircraft leaves Kathmandu, the dense cityscape and Kathmandu Valley gradually give way to rolling green hills and deep river valleys. If the weather is clear, the first Himalayan peaks begin appearing in the distance before the landscape becomes increasingly dominated by snow-covered mountains. After roughly 40 minutes in the air, the aircraft approaches Lukla and lands at its famously short mountain runway, with steep hills rising around the airport.

The flight itself is often considered one of the memorable parts of starting a Gokyo Valley and Ama Dablam Base Camp trek. From above, you get an entirely different perspective of the landscapes.

During the main trekking seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), flights to Lukla can become busy because thousands of trekkers, guides, and support staff are heading into the Everest region. Weather conditions can also affect flight schedules, so delays and rescheduling are possible even when the skies look perfectly fine in Kathmandu.

During busy periods, some Lukla flights may operate from Ramechhap's Manthali Airport rather than Kathmandu. In this case, you travel by road from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, which generally takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From Manthali, the flight to Lukla is considerably shorter, taking just 20 minutes.

Although travelling to Ramechhap adds a road journey to your morning, it can make the flight logistics more manageable during peak trekking periods. Your trekking agency advises you about the departure airport and transportation arrangements based on current flight operations and your trekking dates.

It is also wise to keep some buffer days in your overall Nepal itinerary. Mountain flights are dependent on weather, visibility, and operating conditions, so having an extra day or two can save you from turning your international flight home into a very stressful race against the clock.

Tea House Accommodation Along The Ama Dablam And Gokyo Valley Route 

Here, your night stay is primarily in locally operated tea houses, giving you a simple but memorable way to experience life in the Khumbu. These mountain lodges are designed around trekkers, so expect basic facilities, warm hospitality, and the occasional reminder that you are, in fact, sleeping in the Himalayas.

Most tea houses provide twin-sharing rooms with two beds and basic bedding, including a mattress, pillow, and blanket. Rooms generally have simple wooden or stone walls and little or no heating, particularly at higher elevations. A good-quality sleeping bag is therefore essential, especially as nights become significantly colder around Gokyo and the higher sections of the route.

With NTE, you get a private bedroom with a private bathroom, up until Namche. Above Namche, the rooms can get more basic. 

The standard is comfortable enough for resting after a long day on the trail. Tea houses usually have a communal dining area where you gather around a stove, eat dinner, chat about the day's adventures, and compare notes on exactly how difficult Renjo La really was.

Bathroom facilities also vary depending on the village and altitude. Some tea houses in lower areas may offer rooms with attached bathrooms, but shared bathrooms are more common as you trek higher. Flush toilets may also give way to basic or squat-style toilets in more remote settlements.

As for hot showers, they are available at some tea houses, but they are generally an additional expense and become less readily available at higher elevations. Where available, showers may be powered by gas or solar heating. Since hot water is a precious commodity in the mountains, it is worth enjoying it when you find it.

Food And Meals On The Trek

Meals are prepared mainly in local tea houses, with menus combining traditional Nepali dishes, Sherpa favourites, and familiar international options. Your package includes three meals a day during the trekking portion of the journey: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a cup of tea or coffee with each meal. Fresh fruit is also provided when available.

Breakfast is usually hearty and straightforward, with options such as porridge, muesli, toast, pancakes, eggs, Tibetan bread, and other simple breakfast dishes. You can pair your meal with milk tea, black tea, coffee, or, if you want to fully embrace mountain life, traditional butter tea.

For lunch, you can choose from filling dishes such as Dal Bhat, fried noodles, vegetable rice, thukpa, momo, pasta, and other noodle or rice-based meals. Dal Bhat remains one of the most popular choices among trekkers due to its nutritional value as well as unlimited refills. The combination of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickle provides a substantial meal when you still have several kilometres of trail ahead.

Dinner generally offers similar choices, although after a long day of walking, something warm and filling becomes considerably more appealing. Sherpa stew, thukpa, momo, Dal Bhat, pasta, and soup are common options, while tea houses in larger settlements such as Namche Bazaar and Gokyo may offer more varied menus, including treats such as yak cheese pizza.

You also find plenty of hot drinks along the route, including lemon-ginger-honey tea, herbal tea, black coffee, hot chocolate, and butter tea. Water is available through the trekking villages, although you should use properly treated, filtered, or boiled water rather than relying on untreated sources.

As you climb higher, food choices can become more limited, and prices generally increase because almost everything has to be transported into the mountains. Your appetite may also change with altitude, which is another reason to choose simple, nutritious meals and stay well hydrated.

Telephone, Internet, And Charging During Ama Dablam Gokyo Trek

Telephone Service

Throughout the Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley trek, mobile phone coverage is available but patchy. Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) are the two major service providers in the region. 

Among the two, NTC tends to offer better connectivity in high-altitude areas like Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gokyo. However, you will face frequent network drops in remote sections such as Renjo La Pass or Lungdhen. Now, you can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu before your trek and top it up with data or voice packages.

Charging Facility

Most tea houses allow you to charge your devices, but it comes at a cost. Since the villages heavily rely on solar power or small hydropower units, charging fees increase with altitude, typically ranging from NRs 200 to 500 per hour per device. 

In lower villages like Namche Bazaar, charging is often free or reasonably priced, but once you climb higher, especially in places like Gokyo or Pangboche, it gets more expensive when available. Therefore, NTE recommends that you carry a power bank or solar charger.

Wifi Connection

Wi-Fi is available in many tea houses along the route, especially in popular villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gokyo. However, the connection is often slow and unstable, especially during bad weather or when many trekkers try to log in at once. Most tea houses charge a fee for access, usually NRs 300 to 700 per device per day. 

Ama Dablam Gokyo Trekking Gear Checklist

Clothing

  • Thermal tops and bottoms(merino wool or synthetic)
  • Fleece or down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
  • Quick-dry hiking shirts and pants
  • Lightweight insulated pants
  • Breathable underwear
  • Wool or fleece hat
  • Lightweight gloves

Footwear

  • Wool or synthetic trekking socks
  • Warm thermal socks
  • Well-broken-in trekking boots (waterproof)
  • Lightweight camp shoes or sandals

Gear & Equipment

  • Trekking backpack (35 to 50L with rain cover)
  • Four-season sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
  • Adjustable trekking poles 
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Headlamp with extra batteries

  • Personal Items

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Lip balm (SPF 15+)
  • Personal first-aid kit (blister treatment, painkillers, altitude medication like Diamox, etc.)
  • Prescription medications (if any)
  • Water bottle with purification tablets or filter
  • Quick dry towel
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wet wipes, face towels, hand sanitizer, travel-sized soap and shampoo)

Travel Insurance For High-Altitude Trekking In The Everest Region, Nepal

Travel insurance is essential for this high-altitude Himalayan trek, as the route reaches above 5,000 meters and passes through remote areas where access to hospitals and other medical facilities is limited. Before travelling, make sure your policy specifically covers high-altitude trekking up to at least 6,000 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation.

Not every standard travel insurance policy covers trekking at these elevations. Some policies have altitude limits, exclude adventure activities, or require you to purchase additional coverage. Thus, read the policy carefully or contact the insurance provider directly to confirm that your planned activities and maximum trekking altitude are covered.

For this journey, your insurance should ideally include emergency medical treatment, helicopter rescue and evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss or delay, theft, and accidents or injuries sustained while trekking. Since the route includes Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters and Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters, adequate altitude coverage is particularly important.

If an emergency occurs in a remote section of the trail, helicopter evacuation may be necessary to reach appropriate medical care. Depending on your policy, you may need to contact the insurer or its emergency assistance provider before evacuation, so keep the relevant emergency contact details easily accessible throughout the trek.

Before leaving Kathmandu, carry both printed and digital copies of your insurance policy and emergency contact information. It is also a good idea to share a copy with your trekking agency or guide so they can access the information quickly if an emergency arises.

Nepal Currency, ATMs, And Money Exchange

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Although the main expenses of your trekking package are paid in advance, carrying some Nepalese rupees is useful for personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, laundry, tips, and souvenirs.

You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks, authorised money exchange counters, and other licensed exchange services in Kathmandu. ATMs are also widely available in Kathmandu and larger trekking hubs such as Namche Bazaar, although availability becomes increasingly limited as you travel deeper into the mountains.

It is therefore sensible to withdraw or exchange enough cash in Kathmandu before beginning the trek. While Namche has banking and ATM facilities, you should not rely entirely on finding an ATM when you need one. Once you move toward more remote settlements such as Gokyo and Lungdhen, cash becomes considerably more important because card payments and reliable ATM services are not available.

Keep your cash in a secure, waterproof place and carry smaller denominations where possible, as smaller tea houses and local shops may not always have enough change for large notes.

Nepal Tourist Visa

Most international travellers need a Nepal tourist visa to enter the country, and the process is relatively straightforward. You can generally apply for a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

You typically need a valid passport, a passport-sized photo or digital photo as required, and the applicable visa fee. Your passport should also have sufficient validity for your planned stay in Nepal. If you prefer to arrange your visa before travelling, Nepal also provides an online visa application option for eligible travellers. 

Now, your Nepal tourist visa is separate from your trekking permits. Once you are in Nepal, the permits required for your journey into the Khumbu are arranged separately as part of the trekking process.

Why Book Your Ama Dablam Base Camp And Gokyo Valley Trek With Nepal Trekking Experts?

Nepal Trekking Experts brings local knowledge, trained trekking staff, and carefully organized logistics together so you can focus on the trail. We are government-certified through the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Tourism Board, and Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Our 5-star TripAdvisor rating also reflects the experiences shared by trekkers who have travelled with us.

Safety is another major priority, particularly on a route that takes you above 5,000 meters. Our trekking staff is trained in high-altitude safety, first aid, and emergency response, with ongoing workshops and training to keep their knowledge and trekking practices up to date. Your guide also monitors your condition, helps with altitude awareness, and assists with emergencies when required.

We also maintain strong relationships with locally operated tea houses along the trekking routes. These relationships help us arrange reliable accommodation and meals, even as you move into remote mountain settlements where options become more limited. 

The itinerary itself is designed with sensible pacing, acclimatization, and buffer days rather than trying to squeeze every kilometre possible into each day. This gives your body time to adjust to increasing elevation and provides some flexibility for weather or flight disruptions.

You also don't need to purchase every piece of cold-weather equipment before leaving home. Sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, and crampons are available to rent at no extra cost.

Also, whether you prefer the social atmosphere of a group trek or want the flexibility of a private journey, we can arrange options around your travel plans. Most importantly, we aim to keep the pricing straightforward. There are no hidden costs added simply because you have reached a remote corner of the Himalayas.

Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek Itinerary
  • Overnight Altitude:1400 meters/4593 feet
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Welcome to Nepal! Our representative is waiting at the airport to welcome you, help with your luggage, and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. Once you have checked in and freshened up, the rest of the day is entirely yours. Depending on how much energy you have after your flight, you can keep things wonderfully simple or head out to get your first taste of Kathmandu.

If you feel like exploring, Thamel is an easy place to start. Its narrow streets are packed with trekking shops, cafés, restaurants, souvenir stores, prayer flags, and plenty of that wonderfully chaotic Kathmandu energy. You can also wander toward Ason, which is one of the city's oldest traditional market areas. Here, you can find spice shops, local groceries, temples, street vendors, and everyday Kathmandu life happening around you.

However, you can leave this day simple, rest if you need to, grab a coffee, try your first Nepali meal, or simply enjoy the city at your own pace.

  • Overnight Altitude:1400 meters/4593 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

After breakfast, you visit the Nepal Trekking Experts' office. Here, you meet Rajesh, the owner of Nepal Trekking Experts, who is going to personally handle the trek briefing and walk you through the important details of your upcoming adventure.

Your briefing covers everything you need to know before heading toward the Khumbu, including the route, daily walking routine, altitude, accommodation, meals, safety considerations, packing requirements, and what to expect during the high-altitude sections.

This is also the perfect time for a final gear check. We go through your packing list together and make sure you are not carrying half your wardrobe to the Himalayas or forgetting something that actually matters. If you need last-minute trekking gear, Thamel has plenty of shops, and our team can recommend reliable places to buy what you need. Where applicable, we can also provide certain trekking items ourselves at no additional cost.

You can use the day to exchange foreign currency, withdraw Nepalese rupees, complete last-minute shopping, purchase snacks, or arrange a local SIM card. If you need help with any of this, your guide can point you in the right direction.

You also meet your trekking guide, giving you a chance to get comfortable with the person who will be travelling with you through the Khumbu. This is a good opportunity to ask questions, discuss your walking pace, and mention anything you would like your guide to know before the trek begins.

If you have the energy for some sightseeing, you can visit one or two of Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO-listed heritage sites. You certainly do not need to visit all of them in one day. Save some for the end of your trek or extend your stay in Nepal if you want more time to explore.

Option 1: Swayambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath sits on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley. Its golden stupa, prayer flags, Buddhist shrines, and resident monkeys make it one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. The hilltop also gives you a broad view across Kathmandu.

Option 2: Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Nepal and an important centre of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Walk around the massive white dome, spin the prayer wheels, watch devotees circle the stupa, and explore the monasteries and cafés surrounding it.

Option 3: Pashupatinath Temple

Located beside the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is one of Nepal's most important Hindu pilgrimage sites. The temple complex is filled with shrines, temples, religious monuments, and centuries of living spiritual traditions. Non-Hindu visitors cannot enter the main temple, but several areas of the wider complex can be viewed from outside.

Option 4: Kathmandu Durbar Square

If ancient architecture and history are more your thing, Kathmandu Durbar Square offers traditional Newari architecture, intricately carved wooden structures, palace courtyards, temples, and historic monuments in the heart of the old city.

These sites form part of the seven monument zones that make up the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage property. You can also visit the Patan Durbar Square as well as the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

In the evening, you can enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner with the team, meet your fellow trekkers if you are travelling in a group, and spend some time getting to know your guide before tomorrow's mountain adventure begins.

  • Overnight Altitude:2610 meters/8563 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The real adventure starts today. You head to the airport for the short flight toward Lukla, the mountain gateway to the Everest region. The flight takes around 35 minutes, depending on operating conditions, and offers your first spectacular aerial introduction to the Himalayas.

As Kathmandu disappears behind you, the landscape changes from dense urban streets to rolling green hills, deep valleys, and increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. On a clear day, you may catch views of some of the Himalayan giants before the aircraft begins its descent toward Tenzing-Hillary Airport.

Landing in Lukla feels like an adventure in itself. Once you collect your belongings and meet the trekking team, you have some time to organize your daypack before setting off on foot.

The trail to Phakding initially descends through forested terrain and traditional mountain settlements. You pass stone walls, mani stones, prayer wheels, small chortens, and brightly painted prayer flags fluttering above the trail.

The Dudh Koshi River soon becomes your constant companion, rushing through the valley below as you walk through pine-covered hills. The relatively gentle first day allows your body to transition from city life to mountain walking without throwing you straight into the deep end.

You eventually reach Phakding. It is a peaceful riverside settlement surrounded by forested slopes and terraced hills. This is your first night in a Himalayan tea house, and it is often when the trek starts to feel real.

  • Overnight Altitude:3440 meters/11286 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After breakfast, you follow the Dudh Koshi Valley toward Namche Bazaar, the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu. The morning begins relatively gently as the trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and riverside paths. You cross several suspension bridges decorated with colourful prayer flags, with the rushing Dudh Koshi far below.

One of the most important stops today is Monjo, where you enter Sagarmatha National Park. From here, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as you continue toward Jorsalle and deeper into the Khumbu.

After crossing another series of bridges, the trail begins its most demanding section of the day: the long uphill climb toward Namche. The forest becomes denser, the trail winds through steep switchbacks, and your legs begin to notice that this is no longer Kathmandu.

If the weather cooperates, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest through the trees as you climb. Thamserku and other peaks also begin to dominate the skyline. Eventually, the trail curves around the mountainside and Namche Bazaar appears ahead. It is a horseshoe-shaped settlement built dramatically into the slopes.

Here, you check into your tea house and have time to relax, explore the narrow streets, or find a warm drink in one of Namche's cafés. The town has bakeries, gear shops, local markets, restaurants, museums, and plenty of places to sit and simply watch trekkers, porters, and yak caravans pass by.

  • Overnight Altitude:3440 meters/11286 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today is your first acclimatization day, which means you are not supposed to spend the entire day horizontal in bed. The goal is to climb higher during the day and return to Namche to sleep lower, giving your body a chance to gradually adapt to the increasing altitude.

After breakfast, you can take a gradual hike toward the Everest View Hotel, around 3,880 meters. The trail climbs above Namche through stone-built paths and open slopes, and the higher you go, the bigger the Himalayan panorama becomes.

From the viewpoint, you can see Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks rising above the surrounding valleys. After enjoying the views and maybe a coffee, you return to Namche.

The rest of the day can be as relaxed or active as you prefer. Explore the town, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, browse trekking shops, enjoy a bakery stop, or simply sit somewhere sunny and watch the mountains.

If your visit falls on a Saturday, you may also see Namche's weekly market, where traders from surrounding communities gather to sell food, clothing, household goods, and other supplies.

  • Overnight Altitude:3860 meters/12664 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

You leave Namche and follow one of the most scenic sections of the Everest trekking route toward Tengboche. The trail begins along a relatively comfortable ridge, with the Dudh Koshi Valley dropping away below you. This is one of those sections where you may find yourself stopping more often than expected.

Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku appear across the valley, while the trail passes through forests of pine, fir, juniper, and rhododendron. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons to the forest, while autumn paints the lower hills in warm golden tones.

The trail eventually descends toward Phunki Tenga, a small riverside settlement. After crossing the river, the character of the trail changes dramatically. You now face a sustained uphill climb through forest toward Tengboche. Take it slowly. At this altitude, there is no prize for racing uphill.

As you gain elevation, the forest begins to thin, and then, almost suddenly, Tengboche Monastery comes into view against the massive backdrop of Ama Dablam.

Tengboche is one of the most important monasteries in the Khumbu and an important spiritual centre for the Sherpa community. If your timing coincides with a prayer ceremony, you may hear monks chanting inside the monastery as prayer flags move in the mountain wind.

After settling into your tea house, you can explore the monastery and village or simply sit outside and watch Ama Dablam change colour as the afternoon light moves across its slopes.

  • Overnight Altitude:3985 meters/13074 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today's trek is shorter, giving you more time to appreciate the landscape and culture around you. You leave Tengboche and descend through a beautiful forest of rhododendron, birch, fir, and juniper. The trail is generally quieter here, and the sound of the Dudh Koshi and surrounding mountain streams accompanies much of the walk.

As you emerge from the forest, Ama Dablam becomes increasingly dominant. The mountain seems to change shape as you approach it, and you soon understand why it is considered one of the most striking peaks in the Himalayas.

Along the route, you encounter mani walls, prayer wheels, chortens, small bridges, and traditional mountain settlements. Depending on the season, you may also see Himalayan birds moving through the forest, while yak and dzos graze on open slopes.

You eventually reach Pangboche, one of the oldest permanent Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu. Built along a terraced hillside, Pangboche has an unmistakably traditional mountain character. The village is surrounded by high cliffs, alpine vegetation, and extraordinary views of Ama Dablam.

The settlement is also deeply connected with Sherpa Buddhist traditions and local mountaineering history. You can explore the village and, when accessible, visit Pangboche Monastery before settling in for the evening.

  • Overnight Altitude:3985 meters/13074 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After breakfast, you leave Pangboche and head toward the base of Ama Dablam. Unlike the main Everest trail, this route feels more remote as it moves through open alpine terrain and yak pastures.

The trail gradually becomes rougher as you gain elevation. Green vegetation gives way to juniper, alpine grass, exposed rock, scree, and increasingly barren Himalayan terrain. You feel the altitude more noticeably here, so the pace remains steady and unhurried.

As you climb, the views keep expanding behind you. Pangboche and the Imja Valley gradually shrink below, while Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kangtega, and surrounding peaks rise across the horizon. Eventually, the rocky landscape opens into the broad area of Ama Dablam Base Camp, sitting beneath the enormous south face of Ama Dablam.

And this is the moment you came for. Ama Dablam rises dramatically above you, its steep ridges and hanging glacier forming the unmistakable shape that has made the mountain one of Nepal's most recognizable peaks. Take your time here. Walk around the base camp area, photograph the mountain, enjoy the surrounding panorama, or simply find a quiet spot and let the scale of the Himalayas sink in.

You may see expedition activity during the climbing seasons, although conditions and activity vary throughout the year. You might also spot Himalayan tahr or mountain birds moving across the surrounding slopes.

After spending time at base camp, you retrace the trail back toward Pangboche. The descent feels easier on the lungs but still requires careful footing on rocky sections. By afternoon, you are back at the tea house with time to rest, enjoy a hot meal, and look back toward Ama Dablam.

  • Overnight Altitude:4200 meters/13780
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today, the journey leaves the busier Everest trail and heads toward the quieter Gokyo Valley route. You initially retrace a section of your trail before taking the less-travelled route toward Phortse. The trail traverses steep hillsides above the Dudh Koshi Valley, with spectacular views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks.

This section feels noticeably more secluded. Instead of large groups moving continuously along the trail, you may find yourself walking for stretches with little more than the mountains, forests, and occasional yak herder for company.

You reach Phortse, a traditional Sherpa village dramatically perched on the mountainside. Phortse is particularly well known for producing experienced mountaineers and high-altitude workers. After a short rest, the trail descends toward the Dudh Koshi before climbing again toward Dole.

The landscape changes as you gain elevation. Dense forests gradually become thinner, giving way to alpine meadows, dwarf shrubs, rocky slopes, and open mountain views. You may see yaks grazing in the pastures, while Himalayan birds such as pheasants and monals can sometimes be spotted around the vegetation.

The final climb toward Dole is steady rather than dramatic, but at this elevation every uphill section feels a little more personal. By the time you arrive in Dole, the landscape is noticeably more alpine and the air considerably thinner.

  • Overnight Altitude:4470 meters/14665 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The mountains feel different today. You leave Dole and climb gradually through increasingly open alpine terrain. The dense forests of the lower Khumbu are now far behind you, replaced by rocky slopes, low shrubs, grazing pastures, and enormous Himalayan horizons.

The trail follows the western side of the Dudh Koshi Valley and passes through small settlements such as Luza. Along the way, you encounter mani stones, prayer flags, stone walls, and the occasional yak caravan carrying supplies between villages.

As you climb higher, Cho Oyu begins to appear more prominently in the distance, while the surrounding peaks create a dramatic amphitheatre around the valley. The landscape is quieter here, but the altitude becomes a much more noticeable companion. You may find yourself walking slower, breathing deeper, and taking more frequent pauses. That is completely normal.

The trail eventually reaches Machhermo, a small settlement surrounded by stark mountain scenery. Machhermo is also associated with the famous Yeti legends of the Khumbu. Your guide can tell you about the local stories and the history of the area while you warm up in the tea house.

  • Overnight Altitude:4790 meters/15715 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today you enter one of the most spectacular landscapes of the entire journey. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi toward the Gokyo Valley, climbing gradually through increasingly rugged terrain. The valley opens around you as the trail passes rocky slopes, glacial streams, stone stairways, and moraine-covered ground.

You gradually approach the enormous Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in Nepal. Its rugged surface and surrounding peaks give the landscape an almost otherworldly appearance. Along the way, the turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes begin to appear.

The first lakes provide only a preview. As you continue, the scenery becomes more dramatic until you finally reach Dudh Pokhari, the largest of the main Gokyo Lakes, beside Gokyo village.

Gokyo Village sits beside the brilliant blue-green lake, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the enormous glacial landscape. The village is small and peaceful, with stone lodges, yak pastures, prayer flags, and a slower rhythm of life. After checking in, you can walk beside the lake, photograph the mountains, watch yaks moving through the settlement, or simply sit outside with a hot drink and enjoy the silence.

  • Overnight Altitude:4790 meters/15715
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

You wake before sunrise, usually around 4:00 to 4:30 AM, have a warm drink, and begin the climb toward Gokyo Ri. The trail rises steeply from the village, and at more than 4,700 meters, your legs and lungs know exactly where they are. You take the climb slowly, with regular pauses whenever necessary.

As darkness gives way to the first light, the surrounding mountains begin to reveal themselves. From the summit of Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters, you are rewarded with one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region.

Below you, the Gokyo Lakes shine turquoise against the rugged landscape. Across the horizon, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Cholatse, and other Himalayan peaks rise above the surrounding valleys and glaciers.

If the weather is clear, sunrise transforms the mountains from cold blue silhouettes into shades of gold, pink, and orange. It is one of those moments when nobody needs to say much.

After enjoying the summit, you descend carefully back to Gokyo. The downhill journey is considerably easier on the lungs, and breakfast will probably taste better than it has any business tasting. The rest of the day is free to rest, explore the lakeshore, photograph the village, or simply enjoy being somewhere this spectacular.

  • Overnight Altitude:4380 meters/14370 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

It is the toughest and arguably one of the most rewarding days of the trek. You leave Gokyo early and begin the climb toward Renjo La Pass, one of the spectacular high passes of the Everest region.

The trail gradually becomes steeper as you leave the lakes behind. The terrain is rugged, with rocky paths, loose moraine, stone steps, and boulder-covered sections. At this altitude, every step takes more effort, so your guide maintains a steady pace.

As you climb higher, turn around occasionally. The Gokyo Lakes become smaller below, while the surrounding peaks seem to rise higher and higher. The immense Ngozumpa Glacier stretches across the landscape, and the Himalayan panorama becomes increasingly expansive.

Eventually, you reach Renjo La Pass. Here, prayer flags flutter violently in the mountain wind, and the panorama from the top is extraordinary. You can look across the high Himalayas toward Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and surrounding peaks, while the valleys on either side of the pass stretch far below.

The descent from Renjo La is steep initially and can be particularly demanding if there is snow or ice. As you lose elevation, the landscape gradually becomes more open and the trail leads toward the remote Bhote Koshi Valley. Eventually, you reach Lungdhen.

  • Overnight Altitude:3440 meters/11286 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After the demanding Renjo La crossing, today brings a long but rewarding descent toward Namche Bazaar. The trail follows the remote Bhote Koshi Valley, passing traditional stone houses, mani walls, chortens, and old mountain paths once used for trade between Nepal and Tibet.

As you descend, the landscape slowly changes. The dry, windswept terrain of the higher valley gives way to more vegetation, and the air begins to feel noticeably warmer. You pass through Thame, a historic Sherpa settlement with strong connections to Himalayan mountaineering. The village is surrounded by dramatic mountain walls and traditional stone homes, offering a fascinating glimpse into life away from the main Everest trail.

Continuing toward Thamo, the trail gradually reconnects with the more established route toward Namche. You may see yak and dzos grazing in the pastures, local residents working around their homes, and Himalayan birds moving through the returning forests.

By the time you approach Namche, the familiar sound of trekkers, cafés, and village life begins to replace the quiet of the Bhote Koshi Valley.

  • Overnight Altitude:2860 meters/9383 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Today is your final full day on the Himalayan trail. After breakfast, you leave Namche and begin the long descent toward Lukla. The trail initially winds downhill through forest, eventually reaching the familiar suspension bridges and riverside paths.

You pass through Jorsalle, Monjo, and Phakding, places that looked very different when you first walked through them several days ago. The landscape feels warmer and greener now, and you may notice how much easier breathing feels as you lose altitude.

The trail continues alongside the Dudh Koshi, passing pine forests, terraced hillsides, stone walls, mani stones, and Sherpa settlements. Although the majority of the day is downhill, there are still plenty of short climbs and rolling sections.

Eventually, you begin the final approach to Lukla. When you reach the town, the journey may feel surprisingly emotional. You have crossed forests, rivers, glaciers, alpine valleys, a high mountain pass, and the base of Ama Dablam. You have watched Everest appear through the trees, stood beside the Gokyo Lakes, and climbed above 5,000 meters.

Tonight, enjoy your final Himalayan dinner with your guide and trekking team. This is a good evening to celebrate, exchange stories, and appreciate just how far your feet have carried you.

  • Overnight Altitude:1400 meters/4593 feet
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

After breakfast, you head to Tenzing-Hillary Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. The flight is short, but the views provide one final chance to appreciate the Himalayan landscape you have just crossed on foot. As Lukla disappears below you, the valleys, ridges, forests, and snow-covered peaks gradually fade into the distance.

Once you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative transfers you to your hotel. And now you can enjoy something you probably missed more than you expected: a proper shower, comfortable bed, reliable Wi-Fi, and the freedom to walk somewhere without checking the altitude every five minutes.

The rest of the day is yours to relax, shop for souvenirs, enjoy a massage, meet friends, or simply do absolutely nothing.

  • Meals:Breakfast

Your Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek officially comes to an end today. After breakfast, you have some free time depending on your flight schedule. If you did not get enough time to explore Kathmandu before your trek, you can use today to visit one of the city's cultural landmarks, pick up last-minute souvenirs, enjoy one final Nepali meal, or simply wander through Thamel.

You can also extend your stay in Nepal if you want more time to explore Kathmandu Valley or visit other destinations. Nepal has plenty waiting beyond the Khumbu, from the historic streets of Bhaktapur and Patan to the lakeside atmosphere of Pokhara, the wildlife of Chitwan, and other trekking regions across the country.

When it is time to leave, our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Got a question about this tour?

Or looking for customize trip, reach out to our travel experts.

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Note

The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan, feel free to discuss it with us. For your information, as per the rules of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, during high-season months like March, April, May, October, and November, the Lukla flights will be operated from Ramechhap Airport. If you prefer direct flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and return, you may consider a scenic helicopter experience. A shared helicopter costs $350 per person each way on top of the package.

What's Included
Cost Includes
  • Complimentary airport picks up and drops off
  • Complimentary welcome dinner
  • Three-night stay in Kathmandu with breakfast included 
  • All necessary trekking permits such as Sagarmatha National park, TIMS card, etc.
  • Flights to and from Lukla
  • All accommodations during the trek
  • Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • A cup of tea or coffee each time with the meal
  • Fresh fruit each day if and when available
  • Complimentary duffel bag, down jacket, trekking map, and sleeping bag if needed
  • Government-trained first-aid trained professional local guide who speaks English
  • First-aid kit with a pulse oximeter
  • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
  • Rescue arrangements if necessary
  • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT
  • Certificate of achievement
Cost Excludes
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request and it cost you USD 375.)
  • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
  • Sightseeing costs in the city. (temples, monasteries entrance fee, etc.)
  • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, Wifi, etc.
  • Additional cost due to natural calamities and unforeseen circumstances
  • Tip to staff 
Route MapDownload Map
Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek map
Dates & Availability
Start:SaturdaySep 19, 2026
End:MondayOct 05, 2026
PriceUS$1690
StatusGuaranteed
Start:SaturdaySep 26, 2026
End:MondayOct 12, 2026
PriceUS$1690
StatusGuaranteed
Private Date

Note

Are you satisfied with the group departure dates? Aside from that, we organize private trips or any special dates you prefer. Let's discuss to our local specialist now.

Photos & Videos
Gokyo Lake
Gokyo Fifth Lake
Mt Everest View From Tengboche
Ama Dablam
View On The Way To Ama Dablam
Gokyo Lake With Mt Cho Oyu
FAQs for Ama Dablam Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek

  • The trek is moderately to highly challenging because of its long walking days, steep terrain, high altitude, Gokyo Ri, and the 5,360-meter Renjo La Pass.

  • This itinerary takes 17 days, including arrival and departure in Kathmandu, with about 13 trekking days covering Ama Dablam Base Camp, Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Ri, and Renjo La Pass.

  • The highest point is Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters, closely followed by Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters. Both offer spectacular high-altitude views of the Everest region.

  • Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory for fit trekkers. You should be comfortable walking for around 5 to 8 hours a day on steep, rocky, and sometimes snowy trails.

  • The Ama Dablam and Gokyo route can feel more challenging than the classic EBC trek because it includes Gokyo Ri and Renjo La Pass, with steeper and more remote sections.

  • The route offers views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Cholatse, and Thamserku, with different peaks dominating the landscape at different points.

  • Yes. Gokyo Ri provides an exceptional panoramic viewpoint of Mount Everest, along with Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

  • Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons, offering generally stable weather, clear mountain views, and better trail conditions.

  • Winter trekking is possible for experienced trekkers with suitable equipment, but heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and difficult conditions around Renjo La and Gokyo Ri make it considerably more challenging.

  • It is not recommended from June to August because monsoon weather can bring rain, cloud cover, slippery trails, and flight disruptions on the Kathmandu to Lukla route.

  • You need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit to trek through the Khumbu region.

  • The journey begins with a short mountain flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, taking around 35 to 45 minutes depending on conditions. During peak seasons, flights may operate via Ramechhap/Manthali.

  • Yes. Your travel insurance should specifically cover high-altitude trekking up to at least 6,000 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation, along with medical treatment and trip-related coverage.

  • A licensed guide is highly recommended for navigation, altitude safety, accommodation arrangements, and emergency support, particularly because the route includes remote trails and a high mountain pass.

  • Yes. You can join a group trek or arrange a private trek, depending on your preferred travel style, dates, and budget. Private departures also allow greater flexibility with pacing and arrangements.

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