Gokyo Valley Trek

Gokyo ri trek

The Gokyo ri trek is an adventure trek route taking the tourists into the Gokyo valley. Gokyo ridge is the highest point 5,360m located in the Gokyo Lakes (Sagarmatha National Park) in Nepal. There are roughly about 19 magical Gokyo Lakes in the Gokyo valley.

There is a small village named a Gokyo on the foothill of Gokyo ridge along the Gokyo Cho Lakes, that caters the tourists which normally closes at winter due to extreme cold and snowfall.

Gokyo Ridge is a Gokyo ri trek is the highest hill station to watch mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. Gokyo ridge hiking is best for travelers to look straight at Mount Everest, Mount Amadablam, and many other tallest mountains in a row. Not only this but also you can see the tallest mountains such as Mount Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, Mount Cho-Oyu, and Mount Everest including several other snow-capped mountains in a single line within 360 deg angle.

Hike to Gokyo valley traversing through the delightful valleys, crystal rivers, pristine lakes, world’s biggest ice glacier called Nogazompa glacier dominated by nearest mountains of Everest Himalaya range. Torquise clour Gokyo Lakes is a holy pilgrimage place for both Hindu and Buddhist people.

Hike to Gokyo ri is inhabited by Tibetan-Buddhist civilization of sherpas with antique establishments of centuries years old. Gokyo valley with the fifth lake offers a better view rather than Gokyo ridge. A Fabulous Gokyo ridgeline trek is possible to do at any time throughout the year.

Why people choose Gokyo ri trek?

Gokyo trek or Gokyo treks is perhaps a dramatic and picturesque scenery in the Nepalese Himalaya. You will have a super view of Mount Everest 8,8,48m / 28,933 feet and Cho Oyu. Majestic Gokyo trek journey goes further walking through forests, hills, Buddhist Monasteries, and tiny villages.

Gokyo lakes hiking routes has many modern lodges with modern facilities. They are very comfortable lodges built by local Sherpas. The trek includes all meals, road-head transport, services of English-speaking local trekking guide and porters to carry the luggage. You will only need to carry a day-pack and you can walk at your own pace.

Gokyo ri trek highlights and Himalayan Sights

Abundant flora and fauna, Sagarmatha national park Museum in Namche Bazaar, Sherpa villages and Buddhist monasteries, Syangeboche hill station and gokyo ridge offer perhaps the best view of Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Amadablam, Majestic Thamserku, and many other snow-capped mountains within 360 deg angle.

Majestic Gokyo ri trek difficulty

The best of Gokyo lakes treks is suitable for all ages trekkers as you don’t need any previous trekking experience. If you are healthy and can walk about 5 hours daily, you can complete this trek. However, daily jogging or walking exercise is useful before you depart. Along the routes, you can walk at your own pace, with plenty of stops for water drinking and resting.

Gokyo ri trek covers

Lukla – Namche Bazzar – Syangeboche Hill station- Gokyo ridge – 5th lakes – Tengboche monastery.

Best season to explore Gokyo ri trek

February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December.

Gokyo ri trek outline itinerary

01 Day : Arrival in Kathmandu 02 Day : World heritage sites tour. Trek preparation. 03 Day : Fly to Lukla airport (2886m/9,437 feet). Trek to Bengkar (2698m /8,822 feet.), 5 hours 04 Day : Namche Bazaar hiking (3,440m/11,249 feet.), 6 hours 05 Day : Khumjung village trek (3,789m) via Sengboche hill, 3 hours 06 Day : Dole village trek (4,040m/13,211 feet), 6 hours 07 Day : Machhermo village trek (4,150m/13,571 feet), 4 hours 08 Day : Gokyo lake and Gokyo lakes trek (4,750m/15,533 feet). Ngozumpa glaciers excursion, 5 hours 09 Day : Gokyo ri hikes (5,357m / 17,571 feet). Descend to Machhermo, 6 hrs 10 Day : Namche Bazaar hikes (3,440m.), 5 hours 11 Day : Lukla airport hiking (2,886 m/9,337 feet.), 8 hours 12 Day : Everest mountain flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Retrun home

The most amazing Gokyo ri trek itinerary detail

Our 11 days 10 nights Gokyo trek or Gokyo trek itinerary compared to most walks in this region leading up to the Gokyo lakes. The particular route is designed for world explorers who wish to hike to the Gokyo ridge of the spectacular mountain but are restricted time-wise. For travelers who wish to reach the Gokyo valley in a more relaxed manner can try this itinerary however if this itinerary is not fit you than send us an inquiry for a tailor-made itinerary.

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu valley

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, we will receive you with a private vehicle and transfer to the hotel in Kathmandu with a breakfast plan. Our representative will give you bringing about Gokyo ri trek.

Day 02: World heritage site of Kathmandu valley sightseeing.

After breakfast the day will start to our guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley; including visits to the pilgrimage sites of Hindus Pashupatinath temple, the world biggest Bouddhanath Stupa, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple and historical Kathmandu Durbar Square with a temple, unique architectures and Kumari (living goddess) in central Kathmandu. Evening pre-trip discussion and introduce with our fellow trekking staff for your adventure trip.

Day 03: Fly to Lukla airport (2886m/9,437 feet). Trek to Bengkar (2698m /8,822 feet.), 5 hours

We take an early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, upon arrival at Lukla, we would be refreshed in one of the hotels and then start our trek to Phakding (2640 m). We trek following a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi. W walk continues passing several Sherpa villages such as Ghat, Phakding, Tok Tok and finally, we reach Bengkar village.

Day 04: Namche Bazaar Trek (3,440m/11,249 feet.), 6 hours

The trail climbs from the riverbed on the left bank into the mountain, through a forest to Chumoa. We continue along the trail with many ups and downs; cross a stream, and pass by the tiny village Monjo. We then come to the Sagarmatha National Park office where a park entrance fee is to pay. We follow a short walk along the riverbed of this valley where the major river meets each other. Crossing over the Hillary bridge, the trek begins the steep ascent to Namche Bazar. On the way, we would have excellent views of Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8516m.). Surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges, Namche Bazar (3440m) is a central hub of the area for food, trekking gears, and other necessary goods.

Day 05: Khumjung village trek (3,789m/ 12,390 feet) passing Sengboche hill, 3 hours

We start with a steep one-hour climb to the Sengboche airstrip (3,790m), from where we will slowly ascent towards Khunde passing numerous chorten (stone Buddhist monuments) and hill stations. We go to a hill station to have an excellent view of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawche, Kwangde, and many other snow-capped mountains within 360 deg angle. Then we walk further to Khumjung village which is the largest village in Khumbu, at the foothill of the sacred peak Khumbila. We can also visit the Khumjung monastery. It is a small settlement of Sherpa community.

Day 06: Dole village trek (4,040m/13,211 feet), 6 hours

After having a day acclimatization day in Namche, we continue our trekking to Dole by following the same route to Basecamp until Sanasa then ascends up to Mongla (4000m.). From here, you will see panoramic views of various mountains. You trek steeply descend passing through Phortse Tenga and from there, the trail climbs steeply to Dole, through rhododendron and birch forest festooned with hanging mosses and lichens.

Day 07: Machhermo village hikes (4,150m/13,571 feet), 4 hours

After Dole, the trek leads steadily along the side of the valley, where the small and thorny bushes give way to scrub juniper as the altitude increases. The trail passes many summer settlements, which are used when yaks are taken to these pastures to graze in the summer months. Ahead of you are excellent views of Cho Oyu, while back down the valley are the peaks of Kantega and Thamserku.

Day 08: Gokyo lakes trek (4,750m/15,585 feet), 4 hours

After Machhermo, the trek leads over a very scenic path to Pangka and then descends slightly, following one of the melt-water Rivers which run down the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. We climb a steep rocky sloping into the valley by the side of the glacier, passing the first of the holy lakes. We soon arrive at the second lake, crossing the path which heads across the Ngozumpa glacier to Cho La (5,420m.). The third lake is Dudh Pokhari, which appears and on its eastern shore is the settlement of Gokyo. Walk along with the site, you reach Gokyo lodges.

Gokyo lakes is a trade center where the Sherpa people run lodges to provide the best services to the trekkers. Typical Gokyo is situated by the side of Ngozumpa glacier, the biggest glacier of Nepal. Today, we walk around the (5th lakes) and other glacial lakes. An optional trip will be to discover 5th lake on your day out but if you are only physically fit.

Day 09: Gokyo Ri trek (5,357m/17,571 feet) for sunrise. Descend to Machhermo lodge, 6 hrs

Early morning hike Gokyo Ri for sunrise. Majestic gokyo ridge looms above the village on the northern edge of the gokyo lake and we leave camp just after first light, following a steep path up the hillside. As we climb, the summits of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu slowly come into sight and the view from the summit of Gokyo Ri itself, is one of the finest to be had in the Everest region – some say it is even better than that from Kala Patthar, return to Gokyo. After lunch, walk just downhill to reach Mchhermo village to stay overnight.

Day 10: Namche Bazaar hikes (3,440m/11,283 feet), 5 hours

The trail gently descends to Dole and then starts descending steeply to Photse Tenga (3,650m/11,972 feet.) passing through rhododendron forests. Then the path immediately ascends steeply to Mongla Danda. The Mongla hill station is located at an altitude on 4,000 meters offers an amazing mount Everest panorama including Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Amadablam. Just gently descends up to Kyanjoma (3,500m.) to catch the classical Mount Everest base camp trek downhill to Namche Bazaar.

Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,886m/9,337 feet.), 8 hours

We trek to Lukla with the same trail as we use on ascend. It is the last day of our trekking. Upon arrival at Lukla, we would get refreshed and take rest.

Day 12: Scenic mountain flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Evening transfer back to the airport for further flight.

We board our early flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, we would be received by our representatives and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, go for shopping or request us to discover Kathmandu as a guided trip on an additional cost. Drop you in Kathmandu International Airport onward your final destination and our trip ends. Wish your wonderful journey.

How much does Gokyo ri trek cost?

The Gokyo trek or Gokyo trek price will vary according to group size. For the deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we add a 3-star category hotel deluxe air-conditioned room in Kathmandu (BB PLAN) and Tourist standard accommodation with the attached bathroom while on trekking on possible places, so let us know. AND WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGES PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS. International tour leaders are highly encouraged to get discount and attractive complimentary.

Gokyo ri trek cost includes:

  • Kathmandu international airport picks up on your arrival in TIA by private vehicles.
  • 2 Nights Twin sharing Tourist standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu valley with breakfast plan.
  • Government license holder – Professional license holder Mountain Trekking Guide
  • Domestic flight tickets Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu round trip with applicable domestic airport taxes
  • All land transfer by Private vehicle according to programs.
  • 3 meals each day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trekking days
  • Guest House accommodation during the trekking
  • Required number of porters during the trek.(one porter = two guest basis) because our porter can carry maximum 25 kg of your bag pack.
  • Well paid salary, food, accommodation and insurances of Nepalese staffs.
  • Sagarmatha National Park entrance permits and TIMS permits fees.
  • Nepal Government Tax, VAT and as well as Company service charge.

Gokyo ri trek Cost Exclude :

  • Nepal entry visa fee cost US$ 40.
  • Lunch and Dinner during the staying in Kathmandu city.
  • Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls and hot shower during the trekking.
  • Personal trekking equipment and Clothing.
  • Personal nature expenses, any drinks and bar bills.
  • Your travel insurance (it is mandatory in case of emergency).
  • Any donation and monuments entrance fees.
  • Tip for the crew (Note : Tip is not compulsory but highly expected)
  • Any other things which are not mentioned above

We can organize private Gokyo ri trek or Gokyo trek or Gokyo treks starting at any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.

Freequently Asked Questions

Question: Is pick up service available if my arrival day in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes sure !! If you provide us your flight details then you should do a request to us. Our representative will come to pick up you on Kathmandu international airport.

Question: Do I need experience for Gokyo lake trek?

Answer: Actually Gokyo ri trek is suitable for keen trekkers/walkers who are able to walk around 4 or 5 hours in a day, with a lightweight daypack. For this trekking – yes, you need to have experience in high altitude – somehow about 3000M above sea level.

Question: What kind of accommodation can I expect on Gokyo lake trek?

Answer: We provide you tourist standard accommodation in Kathmandu and during the trekking routes. the rooms along the routes are clean with a cozy bed with a nice mattress and blankets. However we recommend you to take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent it while you are in Kathmandu.

Question: What kind of food can I expect in express Gokyo RI trek?.

Answer: All the guest houses/lodges in the trekking they have attached restaurant and they cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, dhal bhat, bread, soups, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season). The dinner and breakfast are provided in the same lodge you spend the night every day and Lunch will be provided on the way to the next place where you are going.

Question: What opportunities will I have for a shower along Gokyo ri trek?

Answer: Guest house trekking all the lodges they have a shower which you can get it somewhere paying and somewhere without paying however if you are in camping trekking – we provide you hot water bucket then you will take a bucket shower.

Question: How do I get drinking water on Gokyo ri trek?

Answer: During the Gokyo ri trek route there are all places hotel and shops where you can able to buy mineral water and you can buy it for drinking but however we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of these. Instead, we provide you with boiled water or bringing chlorine tablets to purify the normal water as the normal water is available in the campsite/along the way in the camping trek.

Question: Can I charge my digital camera or other batteries on my trip?

Answer: During the Gokyo lakes lodge trek there will be more chances to charge the battery. We recommend you bring an extra pair for in case. Remember to bring your adapters! And we recommend you to take extra batteries along with you.

Question: Is there any communication facilities on Gokyo ri trek?

Answer: In this trekking route you can get telephone services as well as internet services as well.

Question: Can I use credit cards in Gokyo ri trek?

Answer: No! So, for the trekking routes, you need to have cash Nepali rupees because credit cards work only in the bigger city tours/city areas.

Question: When should I book my trip and what is the payments terms?

Answer: Because our trips book up months in advance, we recommend booking early to avoid any kind of misunderstanding. We will, of course, make every effort to accommodate last minute bookings. And regarding the deposit, we prefer 20% advance deposit of the total price of the trip in order to confirm your reservation before you arrive in Nepal. And the rest of the payment can be made after your arrival in Kathmandu.

Question: Who will carry my luggage on Gokyo ri trek?

Answer: We provide porters to transfer your luggage. As we are a responsible trekking tour operator agency, our every porter carry maximum 25 kilos of your backpack which means 2 guests (12.5 kg luggage of each guest): 1 porter basis.

Question: How much distance do I walk each day?

Answer: When walking/trekking in the mountains, the distance you cover each day can vary greatly due to a gradient, terrain, and altitude. As such it is very hard to give specific distances on each day, however, you have to be prepared to walk roughly about 5 hours each day.

Question: Do I need walking polls for gokyo ri trekking?

Answer: Walking pools are recommended but not compulsory.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day?

Answer: You can allocate US$ 08 – 10 for lunch/dinner in Kathmandu and it depends on your spending habits. US$ 7 to 10 US$ each day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee, and some drinks while you are on trek.

Gokyo ri trek including Gokyo ri treks notice:

The above itinerary about Gokyo ri trek is subject to change due to a condition beyond our control. This is a Guideline showing tentative camp night stops. A physical, technical and natural condition may change this above itinerary.

“What makes Gokyo ri trek special ?”

Opportunities for challenging trekking or hiking and pleasant strolls are scattered all over this planet; you just need to know where to find them. We at Gokyo Treks and Expedition believe in quality services. Your safety and satisfaction is our concern. We are a team of professional, experienced, well trained and licensed local guides who know the destination much better than others.

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