Gorakshep: The Last Stop Before Everest Base Camp

Gorakshep: The Gateway to Everest Base Camp

Gorakshep is the final settlement on the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, located at an elevation of 5,140 meters (16,864 feet). This remote outpost serves as the last stop for trekkers before reaching the legendary Everest Base Camp. With its limited tea houses, basic facilities, and stunning panoramic views, Gorakshep is a crucial acclimatization point before embarking on the final stretch of the trek.

Essential Information About Gorakshep

1. Altitude & Acclimatization

At 5,140m, Gorakshep is one of the highest overnight stops on the EBC trek. The thin air and lower oxygen levels increase the risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers must stay hydrated, ascend slowly, and take proper acclimatization breaks before reaching this altitude.

2. Distance from Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp

• Distance: 3.3 km (2 miles)
• Time: 2-3 hours trek (one way)
• Terrain: Rocky, moraines, and glacier paths

After reaching Gorakshep from Lobuche, trekkers typically rest, have lunch, and then hike to Everest Base Camp before returning to Gorakshep for an overnight stay.

Facilities in Gorakshep

1. Accommodation

Gorakshep has only five tea houses, making it essential to book in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons.

• Popular Tea Houses in Gorakshep:
  • Hotel Himalaya
  • Hotel Snow Land
  • Hotel Buddha
  • Hotel Everest
  • Hotel Yeti

These lodges provide basic rooms, heated dining areas, and three meals a day, but do not expect luxury at this altitude.

2. Food & Water

• Available meals include Nepali Thali, MO:MO, noodles, porridge, bread, egg dishes, and potatoes.
• Drinking water is expensive, costing $5-6 per liter, as it must be carried from lower altitudes. Trekkers are advised to bring water purification tablets or boil water to save costs.

3. Wi-Fi & Mobile Network

• Wi-Fi is available for $8-10 per day via Everest Link.
• Mobile networks (Ncell & NTC) are accessible but unreliable due to high altitude.

Challenges of Staying in Gorakshep

1. Extremely Low Temperatures

• The temperature in Gorakshep remains below freezing year-round, with winter nights dropping to -20°C (-4°F).
• Proper layering, sleeping bags rated for -20°C, and insulated clothing are necessary for comfort.

2. High Risk of Altitude Sickness

• Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite.
• Prevention tips:
  • Hydrate frequently
  • Take Diamox (as prescribed)
  • Trek at a slow, steady pace
  • Rest if symptoms worsen

3. Limited Medical Facilities

There are no hospitals or health posts in Gorakshep. In case of severe altitude sickness, trekkers must descend to Lobuche or Pheriche, or arrange for a helicopter evacuation.

Scenic Highlights Around Gorakshep

1. Kala Patthar (5,545m) – Best Viewpoint of Everest

• The best sunrise and Everest views are from Kala Patthar, located just above Gorakshep.
• Trekkers begin the pre-dawn hike (1.5-2 hours) to witness Everest’s golden sunrise.

2. Khumbu Glacier & Icefall

• Gorakshep is situated beside the famous Khumbu Glacier, offering breathtaking views of the seracs and ice formations leading towards Everest Base Camp.

How to Reach Gorakshep?

• Via Lobuche: Most trekkers reach Gorakshep after a 2-hour trek from Lobuche, crossing glacial moraines and rocky trails.
• Descending Route: Trekkers return to Lobuche or Dingboche after visiting Everest Base Camp or Kala Patthar.
• Alternative Routes: Gorakshep is also a stop for trekkers descending from the Gokyo Lakes trek and Three Passes trek.

Can You Stay Overnight at Everest Base Camp?

• Only climbers and researchers are allowed to camp at Everest Base Camp.
• Regular trekkers stay in Gorakshep before and after their visit to base camp.

Final Thoughts on Gorakshep

Gorakshep is an essential stop before reaching Everest Base Camp, offering basic lodging, food, and acclimatization. With harsh weather, high altitude challenges, and limited facilities, proper preparation is crucial. Despite its challenges, Gorakshep provides breathtaking mountain views, a unique trekking experience, and the final push toward the ultimate goal – Everest Base Camp.

Plan your Everest Base Camp Trek with Mission Summit Trek today!