Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (Part 1)

Everest Base Camp (5,600m)

Khumbu Glacier, Nepal
April – May 2016

Lobuche to Gorak Shep

Gorakshep Village, End of Lodges in Everest

The trek starts from Lobuche, a small village located at an altitude of 4,910 meters. From here, trekkers will follow the traditional route through the Khumbu valley, passing through beautiful alpine forests, rocky terrain and glacial rivers. Along the way, trekkers will pass by several small villages and monasteries, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Sherpa people.

The trail to Gorak Shep is steep and rocky, and trekkers will have to navigate through several challenging passes. The most challenging of these is the Gorak Shep pass, which reaches an altitude of 5,170 meters.

The trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep offers some of the most stunning views of the Himalayas. Along the way, trekkers will be able to see peaks such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam. The Khumbu Glacier, the world’s highest glacier, is also visible from the trail. Gorak Shep is the last lodging area before approaching Everest Base Camp.
Namche Bazaar to Syangboche
The beginning of our journey to Gorak Shep.
Photo by John Teh
The distance from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is approximately 7 km, which takes around 3-4 hours to complete. The trek can be challenging due to the altitude and terrain, so it’s important to take frequent breaks and stay well-hydrated.
Manoeuvring through the rocky terrain.
Photos by John Teh
The terrain on the trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is challenging, with steep inclines and rocky paths. Trekkers need to be in good physical condition and well-prepared for the trek. The terrain varies from rocky paths to glacial moraines, and from flat lands to steep climbs. The Gorak Shep pass, located at an altitude of 5,170 meters, is considered to be one of the toughest sections of the trek.
Taking the time to appreciate the stunning landscapes while enjoying the journey.
Photos by John Teh
The journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is an incredible trek that offers stunning views of some of the world’s highest peaks. As trekkers make their way through the Khumbu valley, they are surrounded by towering mountains and stunning landscapes.

Trekkers can also see other prominent peaks such as Lhotse, the fourth-highest mountain in the world, and Nuptse, which stands at an elevation of 7,861 meters.

Breathtaking scenery and spectacular mountain views.
Photos by John Teh
Ama Dablam is another peak that trekkers can see on the journey. This stunning peak stands at an elevation of 6,812 meters and is known for its steep, snow-covered ridges. The view of Ama Dablam from the trail is truly awe-inspiring, as the peak rises above the surrounding mountains in a unique and striking way.
Incredible demonstration of efficiency and strength.
Photos by John Teh
One of the highlights of the trek is the view of Mount Pumori, which towers overhead at an altitude of 7,161 meters. Pumori, a stunning peak that means “the Unmarried Daughter” in Sherpa language, is another prominent peak visible from the trek. This peak is a favorite among climbers and trekkers alike and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you will also be able to see other peaks like Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Cho Oyu.
“Its the not the Destination, it’s the Journey.”
Photos by John Teh
In addition to these prominent peaks, the trek also offers views of several other stunning mountains and landscapes. The Khumbu valley is home to several other peaks such as Island Peak, Cholatse, and Taboche, which add to the already stunning scenery of the trek.
Our lodging at Gorak Shep.
Photos by John Teh
Upon arrival in Gorak Shep, trekkers are greeted by a small collection of lodges that provide basic accommodation and meals. The lodges in Gorak Shep are simple, but they offer all the necessary amenities that trekkers need to prepare for their journey to Everest Base Camp.

Gorak Shep is the final lodging area before trekkers embark on the final leg of their journey to Everest Base Camp. This small village is located at an elevation of 5,164 meters and is situated at the base of Kala Patthar, a mountain that provides stunning views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.

The whole journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep took us around 2 hours as we arrived 1 hour shy before noon. We checked in, had our lunch and continued straight to summit Kala Patthar as part of our acclimatization exercise.

Day 8: Lobuche to Gorak Shep – Part 1
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