On way down from the challenging Cho La Pass, heading towards Dzongla, Nepal | Marcelle Barnett
On way down from the challenging Cho La Pass, heading towards Dzongla, Nepal  | Marcelle Barnett
On the trail to Everest Base Camp past Ama Dablam  | Charles Duncombe
The trail to Thyangboche winds past the face of Ama Dablam  | Mark Tipple
Breathtaking scenery from the top of Gokyo Ri  | Kylie Turner
Gokyo Ri above the glacial waters of Gokyo Lakes  | David Tatnall

Everest Circuit & the Cho La 50th Anniversary Trek

A spectacular traverse from Gokyo lakes to Kala Pattar, crossing the Cho La

22 Days from

$3390 USD

Trip Code: EVB
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Hotel only Single supplement
$140 USD
Tent Only Single Supplement
$230 USD
Single Supplement
$360 USD

Duration

  • 22 Days

Activities

  • 17 day trek

Accommodation

  • 2 nights hotel
  • 7 nights eco lodge
  • 12 nights private eco campsites

Meals

Valued at USD$850

  • 19 Dinners
  • 19 Lunches
  • 21 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Trip highlights

  • Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of World Expeditions' pioneering trips with a banquet dinner in Thyangboche
  • Combine our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes treks with the stunning crossing of the Cho La (5420m) and Renjo La (5360m)
  • Climb Kala Pattar & Gokyo Ri for unrivalled Himalayan views from Everest to Cho Oyu
  • Trek with the experts, enjoying ample acclimatisation time on a fully supported expedition
  • Experience a breathtaking Himalayan mountain flight to Lukla
  • Stay energised with three hearty meals per day freshly prepared by our cooks

Overview

For those seeking a more complete and rewarding Everest trekking experience, this exceptional Everest Circuit trek offers everything: challenge, variety, cultural immersion and history-making moments. Combining our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes treks with a dramatic crossing of the non-technical Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft), this route captures the finest elements of the Everest region in one unforgettable adventure. It’s ideal for those wanting more than the standard base camp journey—this is a circuit that truly earns its place among the world’s greatest treks.

From the turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes to the panoramic summit of Gokyo Ri (5,483m / 17,989ft), and the iconic viewpoint of Kala Pattar (5,545m / 18,192ft) with its stunning views of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse, every day offers extraordinary scenery. The crossing of Cho La, though not technical, adds a real sense of achievement and adventure. Throughout the trek, you’ll encounter views of towering peaks such as Cho Oyu, Pumori, Ama Dablam, and even Kanchenjunga to the east on a clear day. Along the way, you’ll stay in a mix of our exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps, wilderness camps and handpicked eco-lodges that enhance your connection with nature while supporting local communities.

Our commitment to responsible travel is built into every step of the trekking experience. From our Pioneering Porter Policy to 100% carbon offsetting, we ensure your presence in the Himalaya brings positive impact. Our experienced local guides are wilderness first aid trained and equipped with comprehensive medical kits and Portable Altitude Chambers (PAC), offering you peace of mind as you trek through the Khumbu’s breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.

The heart of this Everest trekking experience lies not only in its extraordinary setting but in its timing. To mark our 50th anniversary, you’ll join fellow trekkers and Himalayan ledends—including Tim Macartney-Snape, Garry Weare and Soren Kruse Ledet—for a celebratory banquet. Framed by the peaks of Everest and Ama Dablam, this once-in-a-lifetime gathering honours five decades of Himalayan exploration and the people who shaped it.

If you're a highly motivated active traveller seeking more than a tick off the bucket list, this is your chance to walk the full Everest Circuit—complete with iconic summits, a high pass crossing, Sherpa hospitality, and a front-row seat to history. There will never be another trek quite like it.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. Following the briefing, we will head out for dinner and this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

Depending on the season, you will either have a free day to explore Kathmandu's bustling streets and significant landmarks or embark on a bus ride to Ramechap, a small town that operates flights to Lukla, the gate way trekking in the Everest region. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or Private eco-camp *NB: Domestic flights to/from Lukla during Spring and Autumn trekking seasons (March-May and October-December) may operate from Manthali Airport, Ramechap. This is determined by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and dates are subject to change. Your leader will brief you on flight arrangements locally.

Meals: B,L,D

We have an early start with a short flight to STOL airstrip at Lukla. The Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla was established by Sir Edmund Hillary to help access the Everest region and the Sherpa people. It is a picturesque flight with marvelous views of the Eastern Himalaya. Once at Lukla we are immediately presented with views of huge peaks surrounding the village, offering a glimpse of what is to come. Our crew assembles and we head downhill towards the Dudh Kosi, a raging river that flows from the highest peaks. The broad and well-marked trail meanders around fields of potatoes and buck-wheat, passing through small villages and rows of dahlia trees to our first overnight exclusive eco-comfort camp at Ghat. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross and re-cross the thundering glacial river, named 'Dudh' (milk) Kosi (river) because of its colour. Sections of today's walk are through pine forest and cleared areas reveal terraced fields and a variety of crops. We pass small groups of donkeys, yaks and dzopko carrying trading goods and trekking gear along the trail. A dzopko is a yak-cow crossbreed while a yak is a full-blood long haired male, more commonly found at higher altitudes. Spectacular mountain peaks unfold above us and seem to hover above the tree-line as they rise above the deep river valley. Shortly after leaving camp we cross the Kusum Khola, a tributary stream to the Dudh Kosi, and the peak of Kusum Kangru (6369 m) can be seen to the East, at the head of the valley. Further along the trail, across the valley to the North-West, Nupla (5885 m) and Kongde Ri (6093 m) rise above the forested ridges. At a turn of the trail, Thamserku (6808 m) rises majestically, seemingly from the river floor. We will see our first Mani walls today. These stone structures are a compilation of many stone tablets, each with the inscription 'Om Mani Padme Hum' which translates to 'Hail to the jewel in the lotus', and is mantra (chant) venerated by Buddhists and Brahmans alike. Buddhists will walk to the left of these Mani Walls and chortens, but you may notice that people of the lowlands who have no knowledge of Buddhism do not follow this practice. The allure of the mountains is hard to resist, but we must be patient, as it is very important to acclimatise slowly and thereby fully appreciate our time at higher altitude. Today's walk is not a long one, and you will be eager to press on. Slow down, and enjoy the journey. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp

Meals: B,L,D

We start the day by passing through the gates of Sagamartha National Park. This national park was established to address the rising problem of deforestation and to stem the use of firewood in the surrounding areas. Only local villagers are permitted to collect wood for personal use but must first gain approval from authorities. We follow the trail to the confluence of the Dudh Kosi (river) and the Bhote Kosi, cross a spectacular a suspension bridge with fluttering prayer flags and start our ascent to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of Nepal. It is a challenging climb but serene pine forests landscapes and the first glimpse of Mt Everest (8848m) provides a much needed motivational boost. The trail continues to meander up to Namche, a popular acclimatisation town nestled around the horse-shoe shaped valley. Today’s trek will all be worth it once you see the beautiful peaks of Kongde Ri directly opposite the valley. After lunch there are opportunities to explore Tibetan trader's stalls and markets in search of a bargain. Overnight: eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Our trek will start with an incline to Syangboche airstrip and along the ridgeline towards Everest View Hotel. We are welcomed with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains including Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Khangtega, Ama Dablam and many more. After a quick break, we continue towards Khumjung and visit Sir Edmond Hillary’s famous “Schoolhouse in the clouds.”This school was the first in the entire Khumbu region being built in 1961 with the help of the Sir Edmund Hillary and the Himalayan Trust. The school originally opened with only two classrooms but has since expanded to cater for over 350 students. We descend and follow the trail for approx 25 minutes to our new exclusive campsite at Kyangjuma. For those who are feeling the early effects of altitude can opt for a shorter acclimatization walk of around 2 hours directly from Namche to Kyangjuma. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp

Meals: B,L,D

Heading North-East we initially follow the main trail to Thyangboche as it contours around the hills, before we branch off on a climb on the flanks of the sacred peak of Khumbila (5761 m). We traverse for some time across yak pastures as the trail gradually ascends to Mon La. Below us is the confluence of the Dudh Kosi and Imja Khola and across the valley Thyangboche monastery is framed by Ama Dablam and Kantega. We reach a stupa draped with prayer flags atop a ridge at 3992 metres and then descend steeply through forest to the Dudh Kosi. Crossing the river we pass a water-powered grain mill and eventually to our private eco camp at Phortse Tenga. After afternoon tea an optional walk up the ridge beyond camp will bring us to the village of Phortse. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp

Meals: B,L,D

The early morning sun warms the camp site and we head north, still following the Dudh Kosi towards its source, the magnificent Ngozumpa Glacier. An initial short climb gets us onto the trail for the steady climb towards Gokyo. Since leaving the main trail we have seen progressively fewer trekkers and locals and the relative isolation of the trail is a pleasure. Sections of red birch, fir and dwarf rhododendron forest are interspersed with areas of yak pasture as we gradually gain altitude. We pass pleasant waterfalls and can rest and gaze at the glaciers that flow from Taweche and Cholatse on the opposite side of the valley. Behind us, spectacular ridges lead to the peak of Khumbila and the numerous unnamed peaks that reach almost 6,000 metres. In the distance Kantega and Thamserku rise above the foothills. It was at Dole that one of the more recent and "credible" yeti sightings took place. Ask your trek leader for details and draw your own conclusions. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp

Meals: B,L,D

Continuing a steady but constant climb, we reach the "village" of Machhermo for lunch. Like the few small villages in this valley, Machhermo has only a few buildings and these are empty much of the year. Villagers in Khumjung and Khunde generally own land here high up the valley, where they graze yaks in the summer months. Our camp sits in the valley amidst stunning surrounds and is one of our most popular stops on the circuit. This is a valuable acclimatisation day as we prepare for the higher altitudes and our ascent of Gokyo Ri (5483m). This afternoon can be spent relaxing or you may wish to stretch your legs and take a walk up the ridge behind Luza for a view of the Gokyo Valley. Overnight: eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Following the valley high above the river, we commence the ascent to Gokyo village. There are excellent views of Cholatse at the village of Pangka and we stop to enjoy them. We are now in high alpine country and as we approach the Ngozumpa Glacier we trek onto the moraine and rock that extends down from it. We enjoy excellent views of Kantega to the south and Cho Oyu to the north. Each mountain has its individual character and presence, and you can understand why mountain people have such spiritual significance. Once we have ascended the snout of the glacier the path levels. We pass the first of the lakes, Longponga, before reaching, Taoche Lake, a larger body of water and a place where ducks are often seen swimming in the freezing waters on their annual migrations to and from Tibet. As we walk up the valley our path parallels the Ngozumpa Glacier while separating us from the glacier is the massive lateral moraine. Overnight eco lodge (please note that single supplements cannot be guaranteed at Gokyo during peak periods).

Meals: B,L,D

An early start is made to take advantage of the early morning views. The steady yet unrelenting ascent of Gokyo Ri will take two to three hours, depending on your level of fitness and acclimatisation. It is not a race and times of up to six hours are cherished by those who thought they would not make it at all. If you find the climb hard work don't hesitate to ask one of the guides to carry your day pack. You will be elated when you reach the summit with its spectacular view. Probably the most comprehensive view of 8,000 metre peaks in Nepal, many people consider it to be Nepal's best. Surrounding us are Cho Oyu (8153 m), (a mountain that defeated a British Expedition of climbers, including Hillary, in their lead-up to their successful assault of Everest), Gyangchung Kang (7922 m), Lhotse (8501 m), Makalu (8475 m), Cholatse (6440 m), Taweche (6542 m), Kantega (6685 m), Thamserku (6808 m), Lobuche (6145 m) and Mt Everest (8848 m). Hundreds of other peaks fill the scene, whilst below us the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in Nepal, stretches through the valley. The striking colour of the lakes below completes the picture. The only way to get a better view of the entire Everest region would be to climb an 8,000 metre peak! Although further from Everest than Kala Pattar, the traditional viewing point, here we see more of the mountain and enjoy a more relaxed environment to view the peak. Overnight eco lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

We weave our way towards Thangnak on a trail that meanders through a section of the largest glacier in Nepal. It's an exciting hike, as we leave Gokyo and begin the approach towards the Cho La. There are great views today of Cho Oyu and Cholatse. Keep an eye open for Himalayan Thar on the rocky slopes. Overnight eco-lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

We start early to take advantage of the stable early morning weather pattern that generally prevails in the Himalaya. Depending on the snow conditions, it will take us approximately 5 hours to reach the saddle of the pass from Thagnak. There will be time on the top of the pass to soak in the experience before the descent into the valley and the camp on the other side. This is a special day and for some the highlight of the trip. The views are excellent all day. Words fail to describe the beauty and the sense of achievement of this pass crossing. Finally as we descend to our camp beside the steep north face of Cholatse, the stunning peak Ama Dablam comes into view. Overnight eco-lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

The early morning sun is welcome after a cold night and reveals a dramatic panorama of spectacular peaks. We traverse high on the flanks of Awi Peak, above the village of Chola and continue past Cholatse Lake. Beyond the lake, the Chola Glacier flows steeply from a saddle between the cliffs of Cholatse and Taweche in a rugged and beautiful display. We crest a small rise and before us unfolds the stunning form of Nuptse (7745 m), rising above the Khumbu Glacier. We continue our traverse until we join the busy trail from Thyangboche to Lobuche, where the volume of people and yaks may come as quite a shock. The successful 1953 British Expedition to Everest thought of this place as a warm and pleasant rest point.The hill above the settlement affords fine sunset views of Nuptse. Overnight eco lodge (please note that single supplements cannot be guaranteed at Lobuche during peak periods).

Meals: B,L,D

We trek alongside the Khumbu Glacier as the path winds over the rocky moraine towards the settlement of Gorak Shep. We are high, among the glaciers of the world's highest peaks. Following our arrival at Gorak Shep we have an early lunch before we commence our trek to Everest Base Camp. In the pre monsoon season many expeditions can be seen at base camp and this excursion is one of the highlights of the trek. Overnight lodge (please note that single supplements cannot be guaranteed at Gorak Shep during peak periods).

Meals: B,L,D

Kala Pattar is not a Nepali name but a Hindi name and translates to "black rock". From these black rocks atop the hill the views are spectacular. Most eyes are locked on the mass of Everest and its rocky buttresses immediately before us. Many of the famous ascent routes are quite clear. Below us the Khumbu Glacier snakes towards the icefall and Western Cwm. We can see the area where expeditions set their base camp but the original site was at Lake Camp, now known as Gorak Shep. Take a look in every direction and soak it in. The view south and our route out, is particularly beautiful. In the afternoon we make the return trek to our private permanent camp at Dingboche, soon after setting off we reach the site of a row of cairns to Sherpa climbers who died on Everest, before we continue to the small settlement at Tugla. Our path on an old lateral moraine takes us to the sheltered village of Dingboche and our private eco camp. To the east at the head of the Imja Khola valley sits the pyramid peak of Imja Tse (6189 m). This afternoon we can walk up the ridge behind Dingboche for sunset views of Nuptse, Lhotse and Chhukung Peak. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp

Meals: B,L,D

The walk to Thyangboche is one of the most spectacular trekking days in Nepal. The trail meanders around ridges and Everest can be seen on the horizon ahead before descending through rhododendron forests for lunch. After lunch we cross the Dudh Kosi and begin ascending to the top of a long ridge which flows from the summit of Kantega. Our trail takes us through pine and rhododendron forest into a devout Buddhist region where the wildlife is protected and unharmed. There is a possibility that we may see Himalayan Thar, Musked Deer or Danphe pheasants in the forests and around our campsite. As we approach the ridge line, we pass through a traditional gateway and around a chorten before cresting the ridge onto the wide grassy meadow of Thyangboche Monastery. The monastery was re-built with the assistance of Sir Edmund Hillary after being destroyed by fire in 1989. Overnight: wilderness camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today will be a full rest day where you can explore the serene village of Thyangboche, or kick back, relax and enjoy the unobstructed 360 degree panoramic views. Ask your leader to point out the peaks. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse will be at the head of the valley, Tawache and Ama Dablam supporting its sides and with Khumbila and Kongde Ri completing a complete and perfect picture of snow capped Himalayan Mountains. We will converge with other trekkers to celebrate World Expeditions' 50th Anniversary with a banquet dinner hosted by World Expeditions legends including Tim Macartney-Snape, Garry Weare and Soren Kruse Ledet. Overnight: wilderness camp

Meals: B,L,D

It’s a pleasant walk down to Namche, and as we near the village we pass through terraced fields that are home to the brightly colored Danphe pheasant, national bird of Nepal. Overnight: Eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving Namche we descend through the forest towards the Dudh Kosi, and continue our return journey crossing and re-crossing the river. It will seem like a long time since we passed through the villages on our first days of the trek. Retracing our steps along the valley, we pass through a variety of settlements and forests before a gentle climb to Lukla. We savour our final mountain sunsets of the trek as we complete this exhilarating journey. Our last evening of the trek is a good time to celebrate a successful journy and have a small party for all the team, especially the porters who will return to their villages from here. There is usually lots of music, dancing and singing and if we are lucky, one of the superb cakes that our Nepali chefs are renowned for. Overnight: Eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

We start the day with a stunning morning flight over forests and villages to Kathmandu directly or to return via Ramechap. Upon arrival, you be will be transferred back to the Radisson Hotel and have the remainder of the afternoon free. There will be plenty of time to relax or do some last minute shopping/sightseeing. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: B

After breakfast arrangements cease unless further ones have been made. Those people departing by aircraft will be transferred to the airport.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • 21 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 19 dinners including a banquet dinner and all meals on trek valued at US$850
  • flights Ramechap/Lukla/Ramechap approx. USD$356
  • an extra 5kg luggage allowance on Lukla flight, total 20kg
  • airport transfers if arriving on day 1 and 22 or if you booked pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson through World Expeditions
  • expert bilingual guide
  • group medical kit
  • good quality accommodation in Kathmandu
  • accommodation on trek in a combination of our comfortable eco lodges and private eco campsites with off the ground camp beds, mattresses and pillows
  • souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • trek pack including sleeping bag, down or fibre filled jacket and insulated mat, valued at USD $500
  • private transportation
  • all park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • porters to carry all personal and group equipment
  • porter's insurance

Not included

  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
  • Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
  • Tips
  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Adventure Highlighted Video

Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu: Where adventure begins | World Expeditions

Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu: Where adventure begins | World Expeditions
7 Reasons Why We Include Meals On Our Nepal Treks | World Expeditions
Everest Eco-Comfort Camp: Dingboche Panorama
Benefits of Eco Camping vs Tea House Treks in Nepal | World Expeditions

Responsible travel

Extra trip info

Guaranteeing A Great Nepal Trip

Pioneering World Firsts

Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

Custom built, reliable transport

Our all inclusive approach

Multi Award Winning Adventures

Thoughtful Travel

Adventure Experts Since 1975