This is a wonderful circuit trek, almost gently ascending up the quieter Gokyo valley. The glacier is incredible, the pass challenging but so worth getting to the more open valleys and visiting Thame monastery. Our group of 16 + 4 staff walked steadily, regrouping every half hour or so, with a cooked lunch ready at our destination for the day. Plenty of free time in the afternoons while ascending, lot less on the way out. The jackets and bedding provided were really warm, the tents were good but a tad small if sharing. The staff were excellent, even offering antibiotics if anyone developed a cough or cold! The weather forecasts weren’t indicative of the actual weather, so don’t be put off by the temperature of Gokyo Ri or even Namche. It is a great Khumbu trek and at age 65 I was glad to be with World Ex, but I did miss having the freedom to venture at my pace and stopping at more cafes for tea, wifi and views to die for.
Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri and the Cho La were my highlights - I could happily have skipped EBC, Lobuche and Gorak Shep. Crossing the Cho la was one of my best days ever in the mountains. Rinzin Sherpa is an excellent guide and fixer and the trip was well organised and executed.
One of the best experiences of my life! Not only was the circuit itself a truly beautiful journey, but the professional experiences of the guides and porters helped enrich our trek so much. The food was also incredibleeeeee.