Everest Basecamp - The alternative route
We offer something different, we break the mould. We do not offer off the shelf package holidays. We think very carefully about all our expeditions to make sure they offer our clients something unique and special.
That something special on our Everest Basecamp trek is the Gokyo valley. This remote, high altitude valley is stunningly beautiful and home to Sherpa families that are very close to our hearts. Once we leave the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar we break off from the main trail to Everest Basecamp and head up towards the Monjo La pass and into the Gokyo valley. Our first stop is at the Alpine Cottage with Lakpadiki and Mingma Sherpa who have been welcoming Pride Expedition teams into their cosy home for many years.
With Mingma and Lakpadiki in Dole
After Dole our next stop is Machermo where we are welcomed by Lopsang Sherpa to his lovely Lodge Machermo. Having trekked in this valley many times we know the best places to stay. The best lodges are those where good hospitality is a top priority. We have invested time to build strong relationships with local business owners who give Pride Expeditions teams the freindliest welcome. Lobsang goes out of his way to make sure our teams are made as comfortable as possible and feel welcome in his home.
The team about to head up the Gokyo valley from above Namche Bazaar
We know Nepal. That is why we trek the Gokyo valley as it really gives you a sense of the high mountain culture of the Nepali Himalaya. It is harder than the standard trek to Everest Basecamp but you will find the extra effort you put in will be greatly rewarded. You will learn that some Sherpas may carry bags but not all Sherpas are porters. In fact very few Sherpas are porters as they tend to be very good business owners and also the strongest high altitude climbers! This is a common misconception that will quickly be dispelled as soon as you meet our porters who are mostly Rai, Gurung and Tamang people not Sherpa people.
Ashdan Rai and other porters on the way to the Cho La pass
Meeting all these welcoming and supportive people is a highlight of our Everest Basecamp trip. If you would like to meet them and join us on this iconic trek our next departure is on the 21st March 2020. You can book on on our website https://www.prideexpeditions.co.uk/everest-base-camp-expedition
Pride Expeditons is open to everyone and no matter who you are or who you love our guides proudly wear the rainbow flag and will be there to support and encourage you on the trip of a lifetime. Help us to support them in return by booking our trip to Basecamp next year!
Hari is one of our regular guides in Nepal and looks forward to meeting the next Pride team