gokyo valley trek

Gokyo Valley Trek

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    Group Size
    1
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    Region
    Everest
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    Geography
    Mountain/ Forest/ Village/ Glaciers
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    Difficulty
    Moderate
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    Max Altitude
    5,357m
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    Accommodation
    Hotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge
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    Transportation
    Hotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge

Every nature and adventure lover wants to indulge in the beauty of nature be it glorious mountains, pristine blue lakes, amazing landscapes, or the wilderness of the Himalayas, and Gokyo valley trek is the ideal journey for someone who seeks it all. Located towards the western part of the Khumbu Region, Gokyo valley trek is a beautiful journey to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and one of the amazing peaks of Khumbu region–Gokyo Ri (5357m).

The 11 days Gokyo valley trek gives a chance to travel around Everest Region exploring more than 19 lakes, great views around the valley, massive glacier, rich Sherpa culture, and a stunning view of four 8,000m above mountains. The trekking trail route takes through the dense rhododendron and oak forests, and waterfalls which are frozen most of the time. The trek also provides an opportunity to explore the Sagarmatha National Park, a home to various floras and faunas, which is also listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites for its natural richness.

En route to Gokyo Valley, trekkers also walk past different Sherpa villages exploring their unique culture and tradition. Passing the pristine Gokyo lakes, the colorful monasteries, Chortens, Mani walls, and prayers flag, the trekking trail leads trekkers to the Gokyo valley. Gokyo (4750m), sitting at the base of Gokyo Ri (5257m), is one of the highest settlements in the world and is sparsely populated. From Gokyo Ri, one gets the most spectacular view of Mount Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m), Cho Oyu (8201m) and other stunning Himalayas. Trekkers also get to see the Ngozumpa Glacier which is the largest glacier in Nepal.

Amble Himalaya being one of the finest trekking organizers, ensure to make your trek to Gokyo valley unforgettable and memorable. We have been successful to win the trust of our clients making them happy. We offer the trekkers every kind of services to make their trek the best

Trip Highlights

  • Scenic Flight to Lukla: The adventure begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the lush green landscape below.
  • Sherpa Villages: The trek takes you through traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo, where you can experience the local culture, hospitality, and way of life.
  • Gokyo Lakes: The trek features a series of six stunning glacial lakes known as the Gokyo Lakes. The lakes offer different shades of blue and green and are considered sacred by the Sherpa people.
  • Gokyo Ri: The highlight of the trek is the ascent to Gokyo Ri, a steep hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Khumbu Glacier: The trek takes you to the Khumbu Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the world, where you can witness the grandeur of nature and the power of ice.
  • Mount Everest View: The trek offers close-up views of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, and other famous peaks like Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Sherpa Culture: The trek provides an opportunity to experience the rich Sherpa culture, customs, and traditions. You can visit monasteries, interact with locals, and learn about their way of life.

Short Itinerary

Day 01: Fly to Lukla (2800m) and trek to Phakding (2652m). 3 – 4 hrs walk.

Day 02: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m). 5 – 6 hrs walk.

Day 03:  Rest Day at Namche Bazaar.

Day 04: Trek to Dhole (4200m).

Day 05: Trek to Machhermo (4407m).

Day 06: Trek to Gokyo (4800m).

Day 07: Hike up to Gokyo Ri (5483m) and back to Gokyo and rest.

Day 08: Trek down to Dhole (4200m).

Day 09: Trek down to Namche Bazaar.

Day 10: Trek to Lukla.

Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu.

Gokyo Valley Trek Trip Itinerary

Your adventure begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The flight takes around 30 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the lush green landscape below. After landing at the Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla, you will meet your guide and porters and start your trek to Phakding. The trail from Lukla to Phakding is relatively easy and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. The trail follows the Dudh Kosi River and passes through small Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and colorful prayer flags. You will also cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, named after Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to summit Mount Everest. Upon reaching Phakding, you can explore the village and visit the local monastery. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Phakding. The lodges provide basic accommodation, including a comfortable bed, warm blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for the next day's adventure.

After breakfast, you will start your trek towards Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. The trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar is a bit challenging and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. The trail passes through lush forests, small villages, and offers stunning views of the mountains. You will cross the Dudh Kosi River several times and climb up steep hills, including the famous Namche Hill, which is a bit strenuous. As you ascend higher, you will notice a change in the landscape and vegetation. You will see rhododendron forests, magnolia trees, and other alpine vegetation. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you will be greeted by a stunning view of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant town with a mix of modern and traditional Sherpa culture. You can explore the town, visit the local market, or hike to the nearby Everest View Hotel to get a panoramic view of the mountains. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Namche Bazaar. The lodges provide comfortable accommodation, including hot showers and western-style toilets. Enjoy a warm meal and rest well to acclimatize to the altitude.

Today is a rest day in Namche Bazaar to allow your body to acclimatize to the high altitude. Acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness, a common problem faced by trekkers in the Everest region. There are several activities you can do in Namche Bazaar to make the most of your rest day. You can visit the local museums and learn about the Sherpa culture and history of mountaineering in the region. You can also hike to the nearby Khumjung village, the largest village in the Khumbu region, and visit the famous Khumjung Monastery, which houses the scalp of a Yeti, a mythical creature believed to inhabit the mountains. Another popular activity in Namche Bazaar is to hike to the nearby Everest View Hotel, which offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The hike is relatively easy and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. After a day of rest and exploration, you will return to your lodge in Namche Bazaar for the night. Make sure to drink plenty of water and rest well to prepare for the next day's trek.

After a day of rest, you will resume your trek towards Gokyo Valley. The trail from Namche Bazaar to Dhole is relatively easy and takes around 6-7 hours to complete. The trail offers stunning views of the mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You will climb up steep hills and pass through several small villages, including Mong La, a small settlement with a stunning view of the mountains. The trail also passes through rhododendron forests and offers a glimpse of the local wildlife, including Himalayan thar and musk deer. Upon reaching Dhole, you will notice a change in the landscape and vegetation. The village is located above the tree line, and the landscape is barren and rocky. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Dhole. The lodges provide basic accommodation, including a comfortable bed, warm blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for the next day's adventure.

Today's trek is relatively short and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail from Dhole to Machhermo is a gradual ascent and offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. You will pass through several small settlements, including Luza, which is a perfect spot for a lunch break. The trail also passes through the stunning Phangga Danda, a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the mountains. Upon reaching Machhermo, you will notice a change in the landscape and the temperature. Machhermo is a small village located in a high altitude area, and the temperature can drop significantly in the evenings. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Machhermo. The lodges provide basic accommodation, including a comfortable bed, warm blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for the next day's adventure.

Today's trek is the highlight of the Gokyo Valley Trek, as you will reach the beautiful Gokyo Valley, which offers stunning views of the mountains and pristine glacial lakes. The trail from Machhermo to Gokyo is a gradual ascent and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail passes through the stunning Dudh Koshi River valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Cho Oyu and Thamserku. As you ascend higher, you will reach the first of the five glacial lakes, Longpongo, which is also known as the "Taboche Tsho." The lake is surrounded by prayer flags and offers a serene and peaceful environment. You will continue your trek to reach the next glacial lake, Taujung Tsho, which is also known as the "Gokyo Lake." The lake is located at the foot of the Gokyo Ri mountain and offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Upon reaching Gokyo, you will be greeted by the stunning view of the Gokyo Lake and the surrounding mountains. Gokyo is a small village located in a high altitude area, and the temperature can drop significantly in the evenings. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Gokyo. The lodges provide basic accommodation, including a comfortable bed, warm blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for the next day's adventure.

Today, you will wake up early in the morning and start your hike to Gokyo Ri, which is the highest point of the Gokyo Valley Trek. The hike to Gokyo Ri is a challenging but rewarding one, as it offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. The hike to Gokyo Ri takes around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. The trail is steep and rocky, and you will need to take several breaks to catch your breath. However, the stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape will keep you motivated. Upon reaching the top of Gokyo Ri, you will be greeted by a stunning view of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. The view of the sunrise over the mountains is particularly spectacular. Take some time to soak in the view and capture some photos before starting your descent back to Gokyo. After reaching Gokyo, you can rest and relax for the rest of the day. You can also explore the Gokyo village and the surrounding area. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Gokyo. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for the next day's adventure.

Today's trek is a descent back down to Dhole, retracing the same trail you took to reach Gokyo. The trail is a mix of steep and gradual descent and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. Overnight in Dhole

Today's trek is a descent back down to Namche Bazaar, which takes around 6-7 hours to complete. The trail follows the same route you took to ascend to Namche Bazaar and offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you can explore the town and do some shopping for souvenirs. Namche Bazaar is a bustling town with several shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can also rest and relax after a long day of trekking. You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Namche Bazaar. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for the next day's adventure.

Today's trek is the final day of your Gokyo Valley Trek. The trail from Namche Bazaar to Lukla is a gradual descent and takes around 6-7 hours to complete. You will pass through several small villages and settlements along the way, including Phakding, where you will stop for lunch You will spend the night in a tea house or lodge in Lukla. Enjoy a hot dinner and rest well to prepare for your flight back to Kathmandu the next day.

Today, you will take a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. The flight takes around 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can rest and relax or explore the city.

Gokyo Valley Trek Trip Included

  • Lukla Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • All ground transportation as per the itinerary
  • Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back
  • An experienced, English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • All necessary permits (Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit)
  • First aid kit
  • Insurance and equipment for the guide and porter

Gokyo Valley Trek Trip Excluded

  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
  • Personal expenses like phone calls, laundry, snacks, etc.
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks
  • Tips for the guide and porter
  • Any expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances like flight delays, natural calamities, etc.

General Packing List

Trekking gear:

  • Good quality trekking boots
  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Warm base layers
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Trekking poles

Personal items:

    • Sleeping bag (4-season)
    • Daypack
  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
  • Personal medications (if any)
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Insect repellent
  • Lip balm
  • Tissue paper

Miscellaneous items:

  • Cash and credit cards
  • Passport and necessary documents
  • Maps and guidebook
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Power bank or portable charger
  • Snacks and energy bars

It is recommended to pack light and carry only essential items. You can also rent or buy trekking gear in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar if you don’t have your equipment. It is essential to pack warm clothes as the temperature drops significantly at higher altitudes. Additionally, make sure to pack your belongings in a waterproof and sturdy backpack to keep them safe and dry during the trek.

Gokyo Valley Trek FAQ's

Well, it depends on fitness level. We recommend you to trek with an experienced guide if you’re trekking for the first time. Also, you must do regular exercise in daily life and take your time before attempting this trek. We also advise you to trek during peak season rather than in the off-peak seasons.

If you’re fully fit, you don’t need any specific training. If you are completely deskbound, then some cardiac training is recommended before trekking. You can try stair climbing or hill walking. You'll be trekking uphill and downhill on rough paths for 8-12 days and 5 to 7 hours per day. Altitude may also make things much harder for you. So, you can enjoy your trek if you have a good level of fitness.

Gokyo Valley Trek is a moderate trek. In terms of topography, no ropes and no ice picks are needed. You don’t have to climb any vertical climbing. However, the ground is not paved. So, it is going to be a rough, rocky, and gravel-strewn path. The trek involves long trails that go up and then down repeatedly. You should take caution if you have weak ankles. There can also be snow and ice in the trails depending upon the seasons. Hence, you should use caution or seek the expertise of a guide for a safe trek.

You must acquire permits such as Sagarmatha National Park Fee & TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card. You don’t have to worry about them. Your documents will be arranged from the official Nepal Tourism Board offices. You need to send us two passport-sized photos and scanned passport copies for the permits.

Well, it depends on your current travel insurance provider. Some insurance may not include mountainous trekking or mountain climbing. You should check with them to confirm that trekking if your policy covers the Gokyo Valley Trek. Some insurance may not cover you above certain altitudes as well. So, you need to confirm this with your insurance provider too. It’s our duty to let you know that a typical rescue costs $5,000 just for the helicopter alone. So, we recommend you to get your insurance coverage.

It is not safe to drink tap water during the trek. It is recommended to drink bottled water or water that has been treated with water purification tablets or a water filter. You can also bring your water bottle and fill it with boiled water, which is readily available in tea houses and lodges along the trail.

The altitude of Gokyo Ri is 5483m (18,000 ft) above sea level.

Gokyo Valley Trek Client Reviews

  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Group Size
    1
  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Region
    Everest
  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Geography
    Mountain/ Forest/ Village/ Glaciers
  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Difficulty
    Moderate
  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Max Altitude
    5,357m
  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Accommodation
    Hotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge
  • sidebar-thumbnails
    Transportation
    Hotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge
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