Gokyo Trek

The Gokyo Trek is one of the most rewarding and popular adventures in the Himalayas, renowned for its panoramic views of the world’s highest peaks. Along the trail, you’ll witness majestic mountains like Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,463m), and Cho Oyu (8,201m) rising above tranquil alpine lakes.

What sets the Gokyo Ri Trek apart is its relative ease compared to other Everest routes that makes a perfect choice for both novice and experienced trekkers. Gokyo Ri at 5,360 meters is the highest point of your journey that provides one of the best Himalayan viewpoints in all of Nepal.

Moreover, we recommend setting aside at least 14 days for this adventure to fully enjoy the experience without rushing. At Gokyo Treks agency, we specialize in tailor-made trekking itineraries to match your travel style—whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly trek, a comfort-based journey, or a luxury adventure in the Everest region.

From March to May and also from September to early December is the best months to trek to Gokyo Valley. At those seasons the sky is a crystal clear and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Besides those months, you can also hike to Gokyo lakes and Gokyo ri in monsoon and winters despite some weather challenges.

Likewise, this journey to Gokyo begins with a thrilling and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, from where the real adventure unfolds. As you ascend through yak pastures, turquoise glacial lakes, and stunning high mountains terrain, you’ll also have an unique opportunity to connect with the Local Sherpa people, experiencing their hospitality, culture, and timeless mountain traditions firsthand.

Gokyo Trek itinerary

Tag 01Arrival in Kathmandu – Airport Pickup and Hotel Transfer

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, our airport representative—or the agency owner, Ammar Raj Guni—will warmly welcome you and provide a private transfer to your hotel in the scenic Kathmandu Valley. After a traditional welcome drink, you’ll check into your room and have a short briefing about your upcoming Himalayan trekking adventure. If you’re feeling energetic, you’re welcome to take a short walk to explore some of the vibrant areas of the city..

Tag 02Fly to Lukla airport. Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563 feet), 4 hours.

Your Gokyo Valley Trek officially begins with a spectacular 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m) that presents a jaw dropping views of the Himalayan range. Upon landing at the famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport, our Sherpa crew will greet you and begin your trek. The trail descends alongside the Dudh Koshi River, passing through charming Sherpa villages. Taking it easy today is key for acclimatization. After a relaxed 7.8 km hike (about 4 hours), you’ll reach Phakding, where you’ll stay in a traditional Sherpa-run teahouse.

Tag 03Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,550m/11,644 feet), 4 hours.

Today’s journey leads you through picturesque Sherpa settlements such as Bengkar, Monjo, and Jorsale. You’ll hike over several ridges with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Kusum Kanguru and Thamserku. After passing the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint, a thrilling suspension bridge crossing brings you into Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region. Here, stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Tawoche greet you. The total distance today is 10.4 km, which takes about 5 hours to cover.

Tag 04 Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar.

Today is your acclimatization day, crucial for adjusting to the altitude. You can take a short hike to nearby viewpoints like Thame or Khunde, or visit the Everest View Hotel, which boasts sweeping views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, and Thamserku. Alternatively, explore the local market, bakeries, and the Sherpa Culture Museum. In the evening, return to your lodge in Namche for a restful night.

Tag 05 Trek to Mong La hill (4,040m/13, 255 feet), 3 hours

After breakfast, begin your ascent toward Mong La, a hilltop pass offering uninterrupted mountain panoramas including Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The trail meanders through lush rhododendron forests, alpine vegetation, and is occasionally frequented by wildlife like Himalayan Thar and musk deer. After passing Kayangjuma, you’ll reach the junction where the trail splits toward Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Valley. Mong La also holds spiritual significance as the birthplace of Lama Sange Dorje. Today’s distance is 5 km, taking approximately 3 hours.

Tag 06 Trek to Luza Lodges (4,360m/14,305 feet), 5 hours.

From Mong La hill to Luza is a rewarding journey that provides an expansive views of the surrounding Himalayan landscapes. While the total distance is about 12 kilometers, hiking times can vary depending on weather and pace. This stretch is filled with high-altitude beauty and quiet trails, making it one of the more serene and peaceful sections of the trek. You’ll overnight in a cozy mountain lodge in Luza.

Tag 07 Luza to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Lodges (4,790m/15,716 feet), 5 hours.

Today’s journey brings you to the heart of the Gokyo Valley. The trail from Luza to the stunning Gokyo Lakes and nearby lodges takes approximately 5 hours over gentle terrain. Along the way, you’ll enjoy incredible views of glacial lakes, icy ridges, and towering peaks. Its about 9.7 kilo meters trek today that presents one of the most picturesque alpine experiences in Nepal. You’ll overnight in a lakeside lodge with views that are simply unforgettable.

Tag 08 Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,380m/17,646 feet) and return to Machermo Lodge, 7 hours.

Today is a rewarding exploration and acclimatization day in the Gokyo region. Early in the morning, set out for a scenic hike up to Gokyo Ri, one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Khumbu Himalayas. From the summit, enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier which is the longest in the Himalayas. Alternatively, you may opt to hike to the 4th lake (Thonak Tsho) or venture further to the 5th lake (Ngozumpa Tsho) for unforgettable glacial scenery. After soaking in the beauty, retrace your steps back to Machermo Lodge for a peaceful overnight stay.

Tag 09 Machermo to Phortse trek (3,840m/12,595 feet), 4 hours.

Leaving Machermo, your trail meanders through enchanting rhododendron forests, crystal-clear streams, and traditional Sherpa villages. The journey to Phortse, a serene village rarely visited by mainstream trekkers, offers an authentic glimpse into Sherpa life and culture. The views along this scenic trail are nothing short of magical. You’ll cover approximately 7.5 kilometers today before arriving at your cozy mountain lodge in Phortse village.

Tag 10 Phortse to Tengboche Monastery (3,720m/12,202 feet), 4 hours

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the spiritual core of the Everest region. From Phortse, you’ll descend and then ascend gently through alpine forests and charming Sherpa settlements. You’ll reach at the sacred Tengboche Monastery, perched on a hilltop with an iconic backdrop of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. Spend time during the puja ceremony in the afternoon after 4pm soaking in the peaceful monastery atmosphere before settling into your lodge for the night.

Tag 11 Trek to Jorsale (2,740m/8,989 feet), 6 hours.

After breakfast, begin your descent through lush rhododendron woods and across suspension bridges at Phungki tanka. Then it gradually winds back to Namche Bazaar, where the familiar buzz of this lively mountain town welcomes you. Along the way, you’ll still be treated to dramatic Himalayan views. Once in Namche, enjoy some free time to unwind, visit local shops, or reflect on your journey over a hot drink at a local café.

Eat a lunch in Namche Bazaar and descend to Jorsale with a scenic downhill journey that passes through lush pine forests, suspension bridges, and traditional Sherpa villages. As you descend, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Dudh Koshi River and surrounding peaks, making it a pleasant and relatively easy section of the trail.

Tag 12Jorsale to Lukla Airport Lodges (2,840m/9,318 feet), 5 hours.

As your trek winds down, today’s route retraces your steps past Monjo, Phakding, and Chheplung, with several suspension bridge crossings over the Dudh Koshi River. Though the trail is mostly downhill, it remains physically engaging. Upon reaching Lukla, take time to explore its local markets, monasteries.

Likewise, upon arriving at your lodge in Lukla, it’s customary for trekkers to thank their guide and porters with a gratuity in appreciation of their hard work and support throughout the trek. This gesture acknowledges their dedication in ensuring a safe and smooth journey through the mountains.

Tag 13 Return with a scenic flight to Kathmandu.

After an early breakfast at Buddha Lodge, board a scenic flight back either to Manthali Airport of Ramechap or directly to Kathmandu. During high season, Lukla flights are often operated via Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, located approximately 128 kilometers from Kathmandu. In such cases, we will arrange your domestic flight from Manthali and provide a shared tourist van transfer back to Kathmandu for your convenience.

Tag 14Sightseeing in Kathmandu. Departure to Kathmandu airport. Good bye Kathmandu

On your final day, enjoy a guided morning tour of Kathmandu’s cultural highlights (extra cost), including the UNESCO-listed Kathmandu Durbar Square and the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple). After sightseeing with taking an unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your return flight. Trip Finish.

About Gokyo Trek with Gokyo Treks and Expedition Agency

Gokyo Treks and Expedition is a trusted local agency operated by a team of professional certified guides. As a guide’s owned company, we specialize in offering personalized services tailored to each guest’s needs and budget.

Based on your preferences, we can organize your trip in a style that suits you—whether budget-friendly, comfortable, or luxurious. Simply let us know how you wish to travel, and we will help you explore high altitude remote trekking adventures with our expert team.