Gorakshep

Gorakshep is a village located in the Khumbu region of Nepal. What makes it popular is its being the last stop before the Everest Base Camp. Situated between the giant Himalayas, its beauty has won the hearts of thousands of trekkers.

Gorakshep is located at a sky-crapping altitude of 5,164 meters (16,942 feet). Due to its remote location, there are few teahouses and lodges only. Because of its harsh, cold desert climate, it has earned the nickname “Dead Ravens.” That doesn’t mean you can’t go there. This mountain settlement is more about surreal beauty than horror.

The route takes you through the colorful rhododendron forests and traditional Sherpa villages, and then it suddenly transitions to the windswept plateau. It feels like you are at the top of the world. The trek to Gorakshep is truly a different adventure. One step out of the lodge, and you can see Mount Everest (8,849m/ 29,032), the world’s tallest peak, smiling at you.

And you know what! Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa made a summit push from Gorakshep on their successful 1953 Everest summit. You can take it as you are also following in their footsteps. Now, along the route, you will find villages that have teahouses instead of expedition tents. The adventure of Gorakshep is full of wild beauty and is worth every second.

What is Gorakshep, where it is located?

Gorkshep is the last settlement before the Everest Base Camp Trek. It is located in the Everest (Khumbu) region of northeastern Nepal, within Sagarmatha National Park (a protected World Heritage area). In the map, it lies at 27.979° N, 86.828° E.

Gorakshep is situated just below the Kala Patthar and between Lobuche Village to the south and Everest Base Camp to the northeast. As the glacier ends and Base Camp begins, it’s the last inhabited spot.

The landscapes here are more exposed and have a rocky plateau of glacial moraine. Because of high altitude, tall plants or trees don’t survive. Here you can only find scree, boulders, and hardy alpine grass in patches. The sun’s rays are very strong at midday, and at night the temperature plummets, below 10°C (14°F) even in the warmer months. Wind gusts can be vicious, too.

Gorakshep Altitude

The Gorakshep height is 5,164m. Because of the extreme height, the air pressure is about half that at sea level. This also means the air here contains less oxygen. Simple movements like tying your shoe make you out of breath.

If not handled properly, there is a high risk of getting altitude sickness. The common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, tiredness, or nausea. Though headaches and dizziness are normal reactions to the thin air. Therefore, proper precautions are very important while trekking there.

As part of Sagarmatha National Park, entry requires a permit. Trekker can obtain the permits from Kathmandu or Lukla. This peaceful village is adorned with Buddhist prayer flags fluttering left by climbers and pilgrims and small chortens (stone shrines). The local people of this area are mostly Sherpa, who follow Tibetan Buddhism.

Similarly, most of the lodges are family-run. At this altitude, wildlife is scarce up here, but you might see Himalayan vultures or the rare snowcock on the rocks. From the Khumbu Glacier’s edge, Gorakshep sits about 1.5 km. These glaciers come from above 7,600m on the Everest slopes and flow down past Lobuche. The best part is the view of the ice blue glacier shining in the sun on a clear evening.

Mountains in View

The Gorkshep is one of the best locations to enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains. :

• Pumori (7,161m): The sharp snowy pyramid to the west is often called “Everest’s daughter”. It’s immediately eye-catching as you arrive.
• Nuptse (7,861m): The massive, jagged ridge to the south. Nuptse’s huge wall forms Everest’s southwestern flank. It often looks like the “real Everest” to newcomers, because it dominates your view.
• Everest (8,849m): From Gorakshep, you only see the very top of Everest peeking above the peaks. (The full face is hidden behind N,uptse here.) You’ll get a much better view from Kala Patthar.
• Lhotse (8,516m): Adjacent to Nuptse, Lhotse’s summit ridge is visible by careful observation.
• Khumbutse & Lingtren: These ~6,000m peaks are near the Tibet border to the north, and can be seen on a clear day.
• Ama Dablam (6,856m): While not visible from Gorakshep itself (it’s a bit south), earlier on the trek, you likely saw Ama Dablam rising majestically above Pangboche and Dingboche.

From Gorakshep, trekkers can get the 60° panoramic views of the Khumbu range. The thin air and sunrise/sunset lights make the mountain ridges even sharper.

Gorakshep is the Last Settlement Before the Everest Base Camp

Gorakshep is a small village located within Sagarmatha National Park. This village is the last stop with lodges along the route to Everest Base Camp. Lying at an altitude of around 5,164 meters, it is a hub for trekkers, Sherpa guides, and porters.

Since it’s a last settlement, trekkers have to leave their bags in the teahouses or hotels here. Then, they hike to Base Camp and later return to spend the night for the next adventure to Kala Patthar. Traveler wakes up early in the morning, hikes up to Kalapatthar to watch the sunrise over Mt.Everest. After enjoying the view from one of the best viewpoints, they head down to lower villages like Pheriche.

Fun fact: Before the 1950s, this village was the original Everest Base Camp, from which Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary made their summit. Today, base camp has been moved 3.3 km away, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach.

Gorakshep on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Gorakshep is located along the standard EBC trek route. Therefore, trekkers have to pass through this point while walking the classic trail. Once you reach there, know that you’ve climbed higher than anyone on the planet has ever built a house. From here, EBC and the popular viewpoint of Kalapatthar are just a hike away.

Why stay at Gorakshep? Because it’s a last settlement to rest before the big summit push. Moving forward, lodges and hotels are not available. Climbers or trekkers have to stay in the tents on the glacier.

The stop in Gorakshep is crucial for the travellers. It helps with acclimatization for high-altitude treks and takes care of the logistics. It’s common practice to arrive early in the afternoon, your pack, rest, and continue toward Base Camp. Trekkers can also take a short walk to enjoy the view or lie down to catch their breath. Similarly, this village has a small Buddhist monastery and a Korean Everest Memorial for climbers who lost their lives.

The usual itinerary includes two days, one night at Gorakshep: one for summit day, and one for the Kalapatthar hike. This stop gives your body extra time to adjust properly. In practice, most teams arrive by mid-afternoon, dinner is around 6 pm, and lights out by 7 or 8 pm. The goal is to get a very early start the next morning.

You can’t get the complete view of Everest. The peaks that are visible from here are Pumori and Nuptse. For a close-up Everest view, you’ll head to Kala Patthar at dawn. Closer to the lodge, you might see Everest’s peak just over Nuptse. The best part of staying at Gorakshep is falling asleep and waking up with the tallest peak in the world almost at eye level.

Other interesting thing about this place is tiny Nepal Army Mountaineering Research Center. This center has small museum dedicated to Himalayan climbing history. If you have enough time by to eplore the old expedition photos or the names of past climbers.

Gorakshep Weather and Seasons

Since this village is already at a high altitude, which means Gorakshep weather is extreme. It’s like an alpine desert with intense sun, piercing cold, and sudden storms. Due to the altitude, the weather is unpredictable. Here’s a rough seasonal breakdown of Gorakshep temperature:

Even during summer, the day temperature gets to 10°C; likewise, as the sun sets, it can quickly feel like -20°C. The chilly wind makes it colder. Conversely, a sunny day feels warm on your skin, but the UV at 5,000m is brutal. Therefore, sunscreen and sunglasses are highly recommended.

Gorakshep weather tips:

Due to extreme cold, wear layers of thick and warm clothes. A good-quality waterproof down jacket is essential throughout the trekking journey.

• Wind: The Weather is unpredictable. So, a good windproof warm jacket is necessary.
• Precipitation: Due to snow, moisture falls often. The summer monsoon is mostly cloudy but usually doesn’t dump as much rain/snow at this altitude as in the lowlands. Still, carry a rain shell or a cheap poncho.
• It’s Sunday: Though icy cold, the sun’s rays are very strong. UV light at altitude is intense. Use SPF lip balm, sunscreen, and avoid exposing skin.
• Visibility: Mornings mostly offer a clear view. Clouds and fog roll in the afternoon. To enjoy the view, go for hikes (Kala Patthar, Base Camp)  early to avoid afternoon white-outs or winds.

The best trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-Nov). During the spring season, you can see blossoms and clear skies. Following the Autumn season, it brings the most stable weather along with festive atmosphere. It’s best to avoid winter and only recommended for experienced climbers (and a few brave trekkers); it can be deadly cold. Summer monsoon brings green valleys below, but Gorakshep still gets cold rain/snow.

Altitude Effects at Gorakshep

Due to the high altitude at Gorakshep, there is a high risk of getting altitude problems. Moreover, this village is one of the highest settlements on Earth.

• What to expect: At this height, our body has to work overtime. The common issues you will face after reaching here are shortness of breath (you’ll pant after the slightest effort), headache, and dizziness, too.
• Altitude Sickness (AMS): One of the major problems is altitude sickness. Reaching a height of 5,164m is not an easy task. If you didn’t acclimate properly or take care of your body, you might get altitude sickness. The symptoms of AMS that you must watch out for are headache, difficulty in breathing, nausea, dizziness, and weakness. If you experience any of these, immediately inform your guide who will help you.

Things to keep in mind:

• • In the morning, you might feel good, but after just a few hours of walking or gaining altitude, you might experience altitude sickness.
  • Even after resting at Gorakshep, you will experience a headache because of the low oxygen.

Altitude is like a slope of difficulty, and the harder you climb it, the harder it gets. The rule is: if you feel slight discomfort in your body, head down, and walk down to a lower altitude to rest. The things to minimize altitude sickness are:

• Climb High, Sleep Low: This means climbing high during the day and sleeping back in the village or at a lower altitude. For example, if you are hiking to Kalapatthar, you should return to the village to sleep.
• Hydrate: You must drink 3-4 liters of water daily throughout your trek. At high elevations, there is cold, dry air, which quickly dehydrates the body. We recommend carrying a refillable water bottle and sipping it frequently.
• Eat Enough: Throughout the adventure, eat nutritious food that is rich in carbs. These help to keep your energy up while trekking. Even if you have no appetite, force some soup or noodles. Dal bhat (rice & lentils) is perfect for this.
• Rest: Do not try to compete. Walk at your pace and take your time. Add an acclimatization day and get plenty of rest. The best place to add an extra stop is at Dingboche (4,410m) or Lobuche (4,940m) on the way.
• Medication: To prevent getting altitude sickness, some trekkers take Diamox (acetazolamide) as a preventative. Please consult your doctor before taking any kind of medication.
• Watch Symptoms: Be highly attentive to your body and surroundings. If you see someone having severe altitude sickness, descend immediately and inform your guide.

Though Gorakshep is at a high altitude, you won’t need an oxygen cylinder. In case of emergencies, you might buy them at some lodges, or your travel agency will help you guide. You can use them if you see or feel the changes in your body, like bluish lips, severe cough, severe headache, don’t hesitate to use them.

We highly suggest that you have high-altitude insurance for helicopter evacuation because Gorakshep has no clinic. Most of all, it’s mandatory to have travel insurance while trekking in Nepal. The only way out in an emergency is by helicopter to Lukla or Kathmandu, which costs several thousand dollars. The very best medicine here is careful acclimatization and watching your body’s signals.

A Day in Gorakshep

A typocal day during the summit day from Gorakshep might look like:

• 2:30-3:00 AM: Wake up. Have hot tea/coffee and a light snack or energy bar. Dress in layers (it will be much colder before dawn).
• 3:00-4:00 AM: Begin hike. Many trekkers first head to Kala Patthar for sunrise. It’s still dark and cold; use a headlamp. The trail steadily climbs.
• 4:30-6:00 AM: Summit Kala Patthar (5,545m). Watch the sunrise paint Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Pumori in pink and gold, one of the world’s most famous mountain views. (Tip: Bundle up  those first rays feel warm on your face, but the air is frigid.)
• 6:00-7:00 AM: Descend back to Gorakshep. Have a warm breakfast (tea, oatmeal, toast) once you arrive. Take a few minutes to rest and change clothes if needed.
• 7:30-8:00 AM: Pack your daypack (fill water bottles, snacks). If you’re feeling okay and the weather is good, head out to Everest Base Camp next.
• 8:00-11:00 AM: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m). The first part of the route backtracks down from Kala Patthar, then follows the Khumbu Glacier moraine. The trail is rocky and can be slow-going. Look around: Pumori stands above you, Nuptse’s vast wall is to our right, and the Icefall (Everest’s glacier path) looms ahead. You’re essentially among the 8,000m giants.
• 11:00-12:00 PM: Arrive at Everest Base Camp. The site is a flat stony clearing on the glacier. Climbers’ tents (in spring/summer) and colorful flags are here. Take time to savor it: many trekkers say reaching EBC is an emotional high point. (As one guide put it, each step is tough, but each photo is priceless.) If it’s clear, you’ll see the seracs of the Icefall.
• 12:00 PM: Begin descent back to Gorakshep (or wherever your next stop is). The hike down is faster, but watch your footing on loose rocks.
• 2:00-3:00 PM: Arrive back in Gorakshep. You’ve done it! Time for a second dal bhat lunch/dinner to celebrate. Compare notes with fellow trekkers in the dining room.

Evening: Rest early. Your legs are exhausted, and your body is proud. You might even toast with a (salty) butter tea to Everest. (Everyone’s schedule can vary. Some may do Base Camp first and Kala after, depending on conditions. But the key is starting early and staying flexible!)

After Gorakshep

After the big day at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, most trekkers descend further the next morning. The usual next stop is Pheriche (4,200m) or Duglha (4,620m).

• The descent from Gorakshep is rocky but mainly downhill, so your legs will burn from the workout rather than the thin air.
• Go early in the day to avoid afternoon snow or fatigue. The higher-altitude fatigue should ease as you drop below 4,000m.
• Your oxygen levels will feel closer to normal as you descend. You’ll notice breathing deeply is much easier just one day later.
• However tired, don’t forget: you still have a hike ahead. Use your trekking poles going downhill to save your knees.

One of the greatest feelings on this trek is finally breathing deeply again as you descend in altitude. Gorakshep was the peak of the challenge; going down is physically demanding but far less punishing on the lungs.

Lodges and Teahouses in Gorakshep

Don’t expect luxury accommodations are basic. It’s “backpacking at its highest.” Think of a rustic mountain hostel:

• Family-Run Teahouses: All lodges here are small teahouses run by local Sherpa families. There are only a few: popular names include Everest Inn, Snowland Lodge, and Buddha Lodge. These are often recommended by trekking companies and have the friendliest service (by Gorakshep standards).
• Rooms: Typically, 46 people share a wooden bunk-room with thin plywood walls. There is no heating in the rooms. You will see multiple bunks, each with a foam mattress and a thin blanket. Bring a warm sleeping bag (rated to at least 10 to 20°C) at night, the stone floors and cold air will be freezing.
• Bathrooms: Expect one squat toilet and one cold (or barely warm) shower per lodge. Water is limited; showers are often timed or turn off after a few minutes. Bathing is a luxury and may cost extra. Keep toilet paper and hand sanitizer in your daypack; most lodges won’t provide them.
• Dining Room: Each lodge has a common eating area with a big wooden table and a single wood/kerosene stove. This is the hub of village life. In evenings, you’ll all gather here for tea and dinner. It’s heated by the stove, so it can get cozy (and crowded). Expect early dinners (6 PM) and no loud music; people tuck in early.
• Food & Drink: Meals are sold by the lodge. Typical menus: dal bhat (rice & lentils), soups, noodles, pasthe ta, fried rice, momos (dumplings). There may be eggs or tsampa (roasted barley porridge). There are no fresh veggies or juices, just what can be carried up. You will be served lots of carbs to keep you warm and fueled. Hot drinks tea (often milky Nepalese chiya), instant coffee or hot chocolate, are available too.
• Cost: Everything is pricier than in lower towns. For example, water bottles might cost 300+ NPR ($3) and a meal 8001200 NPR. Pay in Nepali rupees (most places don’t take cards or foreign currency).
• Electricity & Wi-Fi: Electricity is minimal. Lod, get run a few lights at night and charge devices (for a fee, maybe 100200 NPR per device). A few offer satellite/Wi-Fi (Everest Link), but it’s very slow and usually only in common areas. Don’t count on the internet or hot showers; you’re off-grid.

Tip: Gorakshep fills up fast. During peak season (Mar-May, Sep-Nov), book ahead if possible. Either have your trekking agency reserve lodges in advance, or arrive before 12 pm to claim a room. By late afternoon, places can say “Sorry, full”. One guide advises: call the lodge or arrive early to secure a bed.

Food, Water, and Fuel

Food and hydration are critical at high altitude. There are no shops beyond Gorakshep, so plan accordingly:

• Calories: Eat all your meals at the lodges. Dinner and breakfast are usually included or set menus. Each meal is high in carbs for energy (rice, noodles, potatoes). Even if your appetite is low, keep eating; your body burns an enormous amount of energy just warming and breathing here.
• Snacks: Carry quick energy snacks in your daypack: energy bars, chocolates, nuts, or candies. On the steep sections or if you wait for others, a few bites of chocolate or a granola bar can revive you.
• Water: Drink plenty of water; 34 liters per day is recommended. Dehydration sneaks up on you in the cold, dry air. You can drink boiled water from the lodges, or buy bottled water (expensive and creates plastic waste). A better option is to carry a water purifier or iodine tablets. There is a small glacial pond/stream near Gorakshep (Tso Khumbu Lake); if you fetch that water, purify it. Warning: Do not rely on a single bottle – carry extras or know where to refill.
• Hot Drinks: Warm fluids (ginger tea, lemon tea) are soothing and help hydrate. Lodges will cheerfully make you hot tea, have it with each meal. Toastmaster-level tip: In the morning, drink a hot beverage before you eat anything to wake up your gut.
• Utensils: Lodges provide a bowl or plate and spoons. You might want a lightweight mug for tea or a spoon for instant oatmeal. A small towel and soap are good for a quick wash-up.
• Fuel: If you brought a camp stove/fuel, it is rarely needed at Gorakshep (lodges cook most things). However, keep a bottle of fuel (and a lighter) in your pack in case a lodge stove is out of commission or you want to boil water.

Trekker’s Tips: Acclimatization, Gear, Food, and Timing

• Climb Slow: Take it easy around Gorakshep. Even walking a few meters uphill leaves you breathing hard. Move at a steady, slow pace; there’s no rush.
• Acclimatize: As mentioned, rest days before reaching here help. If you feel unwell, it’s smarter to rest an extra day in Lobuche/Dingboche than push on.
• Hydration and Food: Stick to the “drink 34 L” rule. Eat carbohydrate-rich meals (the lodge dal bhat is perfect), and don’t skip any meals. Keep snacks like chocolate or energy bars with you for quick fuel. A salty snack (packets of instant ramen or peanuts) can help retain fluids.
• Gear: Essentials include a -20°C sleeping bag (for those freezing nights), thermal base layers, a warm fleece or down jacket, and a windproof outer shell. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and warm socks. You can never have too many layers. Good waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are a must on the rocky, uneven trails. Trekking poles are highly recommended; they take strain off your knees and help on loose rocks.
• Sun & Wind Protection: Sunglasses (UV400) and high-SPF sunscreen are critical. The wind can be brutal, so a windbreaker or softshell jacket is invaluable. When it’s sunny, a wide-brimmed hat or buff can protect against sunburn.
• Stay Organized: Keep clothes and electronics in your daypack for quick layer changes. Put water bottles in insulated sleeves or inside your jacket to prevent freezing overnight. Store cameras and phones inside your sleeping bag at night to preserve battery.
• Electronics: Batteries drain faster in cold. Carry spare batteries or a power bank, and keep them warm in your jacket pocket. You’ll probably only get a bit of Wi-Fi, if any, so use it sparingly (e.g, for weather updates).
• Communication: Mobile phone signal is very intermittent. EverestLink Wi-Fi in the lodges is slow. Have your trekking agency’s contact info memorized, in case of emergency, you may not have phone service.
• Cash & Permits: Have enough Nepali rupees. No ATMs beyond Namche. Lodges accept cash only (USD sometimes, but change is in NPR). Keep permits handy, for Sagarmatha Park rangers may check.
• Early Starts: Start hikes (especially Kala Patthar or Base Camp) before sunrise. Dawn provides calm weather and magical light. Avoid afternoon winds and clouds.
• Pace & Rest: Use “ten-slow-steps, breathe” rhythm. Rest frequently for a few seconds; it helps. Sit on a rock and take 10 deep breaths. Listen to the mountain, don’t push past serious fatigue.
• Pack Wisely: Use a daypack for the dawn treks so your body is unburdened (your big duffle stays at the lodge). Waterproof your pack if you have rain gear.

Finally, embrace the culture and spirit: greet fellow trekkers and locals with a “Namaste!” (hands together). Respect the quiet: no shouting or littering. Gorakshep has few comforts, but the people here are warm and share tea with a lodge owner or wish someone luck on their hike.

Health and Emergencies At Gorakshep

• No Clinics: There are no medical facilities in Gorakshep. If serious problems arise, the only option is helicopter evacuation to Lukla or Kathmandu. (This can cost $35K USD.) Always trek with insurance that covers rescue.
• Altitude Illness: Warning signs include persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness at rest, or confusion. These may indicate AMS, HAPE, or HACE; these must be taken seriously.
• Portable Oxygen: Some teams carry oxygen canisters, and a few lodges keep an oxygen tank for emergencies. If someone’s condition worsens, don’t hesitate to use it and descend immediately.
• Freezing Aches: Your teeth might ache in the cold, or your fingers can feel numb. Use hand warmers or keep gloves on when you’re resting. Frostnip can be real if toes or fingers go white, get warm!
• Hydration Rule: Altitude causes dehydration rapidly. Even if you’re not thirsting every 30 minutes while hiking, drink anyway. Dehydration exacerbates all altitude issues.
• Eating: Bring common medicines: painkillers, anti-nausea, and diarrhea tablets. Even bringing a small multivitamin, the body can be depleted. Locally, you can usually buy simple meds in Namche before going up.
• Toilets & Hygiene: Practice good hygiene to avoid GI bugs. Hand sanitizer is a must. If you get diarrhea (not uncommon), it’ll sap your strength faster, so treat it quickly.
• Weather Awareness: Check forecasts (if possible) in Namche. Afternoon storms can roll in. If lightning happens (rare), get inside immediately, even a lodge’s low building is safer than exposed ground.
• Recall: That Korean memorial in Gorakshep means these mountains respect no one. Always prioritize safety over “toughness”.

People and Culture of Gorakshep

Gorakshep is not a typical village; only a few Sherpa families live here year-round, running the lodges. There are no shops or schools, just the meager infrastructure to support trekkers. During peak season, their relatives often come up to help and share warm Nepali hospitality.

You’ll notice Buddhist symbols everywhere: prayer flags tied to posts, small white chortens (shrines), and mani stone walls carved with mantras. These are part of the Khumbu’s spiritual heritage; many trekkers will spin a prayer wheel or drop a stone for good luck.

Amenities are primitive

Electricity may be out for hours; people pass evenings chatting by candle/lamp after the dining stove goes dark. Water is scarce, locals use only what they must, and may recycle greywater for washing floors. Conversations are often hushed, as everyone tires quickly. Expect to see the Nepal Army’s solar panels here; they maintain weather stations and communications on the mountain range. There’s even a tiny Mountaineering Museum in Gorakshep run by the army.

Despite the harshness, Sherpas here are known for their warmth. They’ll serve you a big cup of butter tea (salty yak-buttered tea) or simple porridge with a smile. You may hear them chanting mantras quietly in the corner. Many climbers consider the evening prayer chants or flicker of butter lamps a highlight.

In Gorakshep, you might feel a mix of exhaustion, exhilaration, and humility. Embrace the local custom; a simple “Namaste” goes a long way. And maybe try a snack of tsampa (roasted barley) or dal bhat with your hands, Sherpa-style.

Finally, every heavy step and every deep breath up here was worth it. You’ve reached Gorakshep, one of the most memorable places on the planet. Raise a mug of butter tea in toast (Khumbu dhanyabad!) and congratulate yourself. The mountains have tested you, and you rose to the challenge.

FAQs

What does gorakshep mean?

—> Gorakshep is one of the small villages located in the Everest region of Nepal. This name is derived from the Sanskrit words “Gorak” (a sage’s name, also linked with the respected yogi Gorakhnath) and “Shep” (meaning dead or exhausted). Therefore, it is also roughly translated to “dead ravens” or “dead crows.” Gorakshep is popular because it’s the last stop before the Everest Base Camp. It is also the starting point for the hike to Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint of Mount Everest.

How high is Gorakshep?

—> Gorakshep is located at an altitude of 5,164 meters (16,942 feet) above sea level.

How to reach Gorakshep?

—> To reach Gorakshep, trekkers have to take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and then follow the Everest Base Camp trekking route through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and finally Gorakshep. From Gorakshep, trekkers continue to Everest Base Camp or climb Kala Patthar.

Can you see Everest from Gorakshep?

—> No, you cannot see Mount Everest from Gorakshep. The Everest is blocked by nearby peaks. Therefore, trekkers have to hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the best view of Everest.

Do people live in Gorakshep?

—> Yes, people live in Gorakshep. However, there are only a few mostly to run teahouses and lodges for trekkers. Due to the extreme cold, thin air, and lack of resources, this place is not suitable for permanent settlement.

How far is it from Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp?

—> Gorakshep is about 3 to 4 kilometers (1.8 to 2.5 miles) from Everest Base Camp. It mostly takes around 2 hours of trekking one way.

What is the last town before Everest Base Camp?

—> Gorakshep is the last town before Everest Base Camp. This settlement is mostly teahouses and hotels, so trekkers can stay or rest before hiking towards the Everest Base Camp or to Kala Patthar.