Gokyo Valley Trek
(20 Reviews)

Gokyo Valley Trek

Gokyo Valley Trek Highlights

  • At 5357 meters above sea level, Gokyo Ri provides sweeping views of the Everest Region, which includes Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse.
  • Trekking through the Gokyo Valley's picturesque scenery.
  • Gokyo Lakes is a haunted place for Buddhists and Hindus alike.
  • The friendly hospitality of the Sherpa community.
  • A beautiful sunrise view of Gokyo Ri. the breathtaking view of the Khumbu Icefall.
  • Trek through Sagarmatha National Park's lush, picturesque forests.
  • Sherpa villages of picturesque villages in Namche and Lukla.
  • Take note of the mani stones, prayer wheels, colorful flags, and high suspension bridges.

Gokyo Valley Trek in the Everest region is the most popular and somewhat difficult route which leads to the picturesque Gokyo valley, which is located at the base of the breathtaking Gokyo Ri and the Gokyo Lakes. Trekking this route provides breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Similar to that, it entails hiking through difficult terrain, high altitudes, and occasionally steep ascents and descents; it also involves visiting Buddhist monasteries, a World Heritage Site, and, aside from the breathtaking scenery, glimpses into the way of life of the Sherpas, who are well-known for being world-class mountain climbers.

Gokyo valley trek is another great option for those who are heading to Everest Base Camp and willing to trek in the less crowded hiking trails in the Everest region leading to Everest base camp. Gokyo lakes are the major attraction of this trail which is known as the world’s highest fresh water lake system comprising six lakes (Gokyo Cho, Thonak Cho, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, Ngojumba Cho, and Kyajumba cho). 

The Buddhists and Hindus alike regard the lakes as frightening. During the August-based Janai Purnima festival, a significant number of Hindus bathe in the lakes. In a similar vein, a large number of tourists travel to the Gokyo lakes every year to experience paradise and explore this unspoiled area. The western edge of the lakes is home to a temple dedicated to the Hindu gods Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The location is revered as the home of the snake god. Wetland birds find refuge in the lake thanks to the strong belief in “no harm” to birds. You will undoubtedly experience thrills, adventure, and lifelong memories on this trek.

Permits for Gokyo Valley Trek

Like other treks in the Everest region, Gokyo valley trek also need two different permits which can only be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Nepal. They are:

  • The Sagarmatha National park permit.
  • TIMS Cards.

Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance is required for any trek in Nepal, including the Gokyo Valley Trek. There will be high-altitude trekking during the trip, which could be hazardous and physically taxing. In the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a delayed or canceled flight, or lost or stolen luggage, travel insurance can provide financial protection. Make sure your travel insurance covers emergency helicopter evacuation and high-altitude trekking before embarking on this trek, as these can be expensive without coverage. You can also get extra coverage for adventure sports, hiking, and mountaineering, depending on your plan.

Guide and Porter

To ensure safety and make the most of your time, it is always advised to trek with a knowledgeable, experienced, and licensed guide or to join a trekking agency. Furthermore, as per the Nepal Tourism Board, all hikers must obtain the services of a licensed trekking guide and obtain (TIMS Cards) from authorized trekking agencies affiliated with the Nepalese government.

Notably, Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd. is a trustworthy business that has been officially registered with the Nepalese government. They can offer you a technically competent guide and porter who is insured, as well as a helpful and amiable English-speaking guide. Because they are highly skilled trekking guides, they always carry the necessary safety equipment, including first aid kits and gear, and they perform safety checks promptly.

The ideal season for visiting Gokyo

Trekking to the gokyo valley is advantageous in every season but the best time allows you best experience till the end. However, the different season will offer you with different heavenly moments and memories for lifetime.

Autum Season (September- November)

The harvesting season occurs during the autumn months, when day and night hours coincide. The clear skies offer breathtaking views of the mountains, the weather is mostly stable, the temperatures are moderate, and the walking temperature is at its most comfortable during the day. Lower elevations are warm, but the high mountains remain chilly. You will see trees along the trail with leaves in shades of yellow, orange, red, and brown.

Spring Season (March- May)

The premonsoon season is when nature restores its once-lost splendor. Discover a vast array of blossoming flowers that create vibrant hills, including magnolia, the national flower of Nepal, rhododendron, and other types of wildflowers found throughout the nation. Treks with high passes are best tackled in the spring. The days get longer and the surrounding temperature rises, allowing for stronger sunlight.

Summer Season (June- August)

The monsoon and summer seasons are combined in Nepal. The first few weeks of the season are intensely hot, and by the middle of it, it starts to rain. The trails are therefore muddy and slick as a result of the frequent downpours. For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventures, summer is ideal. The foothills are lush and wildflowers are in full bloom during this time of year.

Winter (December- February)

Winter is the months for snow fall, icy- cold season of the year, but the lower region trek is entirely enjoyable at this time. 

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness usually happens when you ascend to a high altitude too quickly. At high altitudes, your body tries to adapt to the lower oxygen levels and lower air pressure, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and nausea. One should take the initiative to inform the guide as soon as possible about this illness.

Fitness/ Experience

Trekking in the Gokyo Valley requires certain health, medical, and physical fitness requirements. The trekking path is an exciting and difficult one. Your average hiking time will be between five and six hours, depending on your destination. Therefore, trekkers with heart or lung conditions, or those with chronic illnesses, are not advised to attempt this trek. It is best to stay away from this trip. All hikers with an average level of fitness, however, can easily finish this trail. While not required, it will be advantageous if you have any prior hiking experience or engage in regular exercise.

Foods and lodging

In the mountains and in isolated villages, lodging is typically simple and unassuming. The room, shower, and restrooms are shared by two people. Although the accommodations at the mountain teahouse are simple, with just a bed, pillow, and blankets, the view is breathtaking. Two single bedrooms with mattresses, pillows, warm blankets, attached bathrooms, and hot water are features of the standard lodge. Teashops and lodges typically serve a wide variety of delectable meals, including Nepali, Indian, Italian, Tibetan, and continental fare, to accommodate the varied tastes of hikers. Since the local cook will only use vegetables from the area, every dish will have a distinctively local flavor. During the trek, we will ensure accommodate you to the best available tea houses with great views, sceneries, and serve with organic, healthy and hygienic foods.

Gokyo Valley Trek Itinerary

If you're looking for a tailor-made trip or want to customize this itinerary, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you create the perfect holiday plan. Contact us anytime!

Day 1

Arrival at Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

On your arrival to Kathmandu from Tribhuwan International Airport(TIA), the representative from Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours welcomes you and then you shall be transferred to the categorized Hotel in Kathmandu to which you are comfortable with.
Day 2

Sightseeing at Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley's sightseeing offers an enthralling voyage through the rich history, culture, and spirituality of Nepal. As your tour guide, I would take you to UNESCO World Heritage Sites where the ancient Buddhist traditions are still practiced, such as Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple). You'll discover the architectural wonders of Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Square, each with a distinct charm and exquisite stone and wood carvings. One of the most revered Hindu temples, Pashupatinath Temple, is located in the valley. Kathmandu Valley is a real cultural gem with its mix of bustling marketplaces, ancient monuments, and stunning scenery.
Day 3

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla then Trek to Phakding

We begin our journey from the TIA domestic terminal, where we catch an early morning flight to Lukla. We will be amused by the expansive views of the stunning White Mountains and picturesque villages below us while we are in the air. We will soon arrive at Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, which is the starting point of one of the world's most breathtaking and exciting air routes, ending in a land on a hillside encircled by towering mountains. After that, we begin traveling the path that leads to Phakding while passing through the stunning Sherpa valleys.
Day 4

Trek from Phakding to Namche

Following the Dudh Koshi River, we will travel to Namche and experience the tranquility of pine, fir, and juniper forests along the way. To our right will be a stunning view of the shimmering Mt. Thamserku (6608m). When the days are clear and open, we might even be lucky enough to see Mt. Everest rising over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. Following a series of suspension bridges, we are greeted with a straight upward climbing trail that leads to Namche Baazar.
Day 5

Acclimatization Day at Namche Baazar

To alleviate our achy and lethargic muscles, we will spend a day in Namche Baazar. We'll travel a short distance to reach the museum, which is well-known for showcasing the Sherpa people's traditional culture. After that, we'll trek up to the Syangboche Airport, which is nearer to the Everest View Hotel. From there, we can take in breathtaking views of the Khumbu peaks at sunrise and sunset, as well as the Himalayas. Namche is a vibrant village with fascinating and thrilling stores and vendors, delicious food, and breathtaking mountain views.
Day 6

Trek from Namche to Phortse

The trek is exceptionally pristine in the spring because as we ascend sharply out of the valley through the rhododendron forest, we will see juniper and large conifers in proportion to the altitude increase. Throughout the day, Khumbu La and Twache will be under observation.
Day 7

Trek from Phortse to Machherma via Dole

We're going to be progressively ascending the valley's side today. We will discover that the tiny, prickly bushes give way to scrub juniper as we gain altitude. When yaks are brought to these pastures for summer grazing, the trail passes through numerous summer settlements. The peaks of Kantega and Thamserku are down the valley behind us, and we have fantastic views of Cho Oyu in front of us.
Day 8

Trek from Machherma to Gokyo

Today's hike will take us along a very picturesque path that leads to Pangka and the river that runs along the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. The first of the holy lakes is passed as we ascend a sharp rocky incline into the valley beside the glacier. And we soon find ourselves trailing the second, then the third. The settlement of Gokyo is situated on the eastern bank of the last lake, Dudh Pokhari.
Day 9

Exploration Day at Gokyo

Gokyo is located next to the well-known Ngozumpa glacier. In addition to relaxing, if you want to see the best views of the entire Gokyo valley, the enormous Ngozumpa glacier, and an amazing panoramic view of the entire Khumbu Himalayas, including the enormous mountains of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, and Gychung Kang, we can hike to Gokyo Ri (5583 meters). Alternatively, we could stroll around the glacier and around the Gokyo Valley.
Day 10

Trek Back from Gokyo to Dole

And we follow back to the descending trail to Dole again.
Day 11

Trek from Dole to Namche

Starting from Dole, the path descends sharply to Phortse Tenga through rhododendron forests. From there, it immediately climbs sharply to reach Kyanjoma (3500m) and Mongla Danda (4000m). Lastly, the trail makes a few short ascents and descents to Namche.
Day 12

Trek from Namche to Lukla

On our last day, we hike through a number of nearby villages before approaching the Hillary Suspension Bridge. Our evening in a proper hotel awaits us upon our arrival in Lukla. And enjoy some happy moments expressing gratitude and congrats to one another for our teamwork and the success of the trek.
Day 13

Fly Back from Lukla to Kathmandu

Early in the morning, we return to Kathmandu by plane, where we spend the day relaxing or shopping for souvenirs.
Day 14

Departure at Tribhuvan International Airport

On this day, you shall be transferred to the International Airport at least 3 hours before your flight for onward destination by a representative of Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours.

Gokyo Valley Trek Inclusions

What's included

  • All pick up and drop services by a private vehicle
  • Three-night accommodation in 2-star category Hotel in Kathmandu(B&B)
  • Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu (with private vehicle  and English speaking Tour guide)
  • Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu domestic flight with Airport taxes
  • Trekking permits and TIMS card
  • Experienced & English speaking License holder Trekking Guide
  • One porter for two guests (carries maximum of 20 kg)
  • Accommodation in tea house during trek
  • 3 meals a Day (Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast and 3 cups of tea or coffee  during the trek)
  • Insurance, daily wages, equipment, meals and accommodation for guide and porters
  • All taxes and company service charges
  •  Farewell Dinner(Nepalese Cuisine)
  • Medical support kit box

Add-ons

    What's not included

    • Fees of visa for Nepal
    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu Hotel
    • International Airfare to get in and out of Nepal
    • Expenses for beverages, drinking water, desserts, extra porters, shower, laundry or any other services which are not mentioned by the company
    • Cost for spending extra nights in certain destination in your will
    • Tips that you provide in trip to guide, porter or any local people
    • All entrance fees(during sightseeing)
    • Equipment (sleeping bags, down jackets and maps)
    • Travel and evacuation insurance
    Mr Ramesh - Tour Operator in Nepal Holiday

    Ramesh Bajgain

    Kristen - representative in Australia for Nepal Holiday Treks

    Kristen

    Mr Ramesh - Tour Operator in Nepal Holiday

    Ramesh Bajgain

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