Comparing Crowds, Views, and Difficulty
Most people book the standard Everest Base Camp trek. But the Gokyo Lakes route is often cited by experts as more beautiful. Which Mount Everest expedition region trek is right for you?
From EBC, you actually can't see the summit. From Gokyo Ri, you get a panoramic view of four 8,000m peaks, including a perfect shot of the Mount Everest summit. Gokyo wins on vistas.
EBC is iconic. Standing on the glacier where expeditions start is emotional. Gokyo is peaceful; you have pristine lakes and fewer trekkers. If you hate crowds, avoid the main Everest trekking highway and go to Gokyo.
They are similar in difficulty, though Gokyo involves slightly less mileage. Both reach altitudes over 5,000m. The best option? Combine them via the Cho La Pass for the ultimate tour.
If you need to tick 'Base Camp' off your bucket list, do EBC. If you want the best photos and serenity, choose Gokyo.