Gorak Shep
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Horak Shep and at what height is it?
This is a tiny settlement at an altitude of 5,164 m on a dry, frozen lake bed near Everest, near Sagarmatha. The name translates as "dead crows" - there is zero vegetation here, so don't be surprised by the gloomy landscape.
How to get here?
On foot and only on foot - this is the last stop on the classic trek to Everest Base Camp. The route starts from Lukla and goes through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pangboche, Dingboche and Lobuche. It won't work out quickly.
When is the best time to go?
Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November). The rest of the year, Gorak Shep is practically empty - it comes alive only for the trekking season.
What do travelers do here?
From here walk to Everest Base Camp (approximately 1.5-2.5 hours one way) and climb Kala Pattar (5550m) for views of Everest. This is almost a ceiling for those who go without a climbing permit.
Why is Horak Shep interesting historically?
It was here in 1952 that the Swiss set up the first Everest base camp. Later, the camp was moved closer to the mountain, and the name of the place remained in the legends of trekkers.
