Overview
Gokyo Valley Trek is a trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal, famous for its natural beauty, high lakes and beautiful mountains. Experience the Gokyo Valley Trek, a 16-day trek that starts and ends in Kathmandu. Explore some of the most stunning landscapes of Nepal's Eastern Himalayas. Organized by Holiday Treks and Expedition, this trip is led by a team of experienced experts to ensure a memorable and safe journey through one of the most beautiful trekking routes in Nepal.
The Gokyo Valley Trek is famous for its spectacular scenery and the highlight is the climb to Gokyo Ri (5,483m). This peak offers panoramic views of the highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu. The Gokyo Ri view offers a wider and more dramatic view of Everest compared to the Kala Patthar view, making it a coveted spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Walking through the Gokyo Valley, you will find the Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater lake in the world. The blue waters of this lake reflect the beauty of the Himalayas. Nearby is the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in the Himalayas, offering spectacular views of the glacier's expanse.
Gokyo Valley Trekking Permits
The Gokyo Valley Trek is located within the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal. As such, trekkers are required to obtain several permits before embarking on the trek. The most important permit is the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, which costs around NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals. This permit allows you to trek through the protected areas of the park and helps in the conservation efforts within the region. It is available at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or can be arranged by a local trekking agency such as Holiday Treks & Expedition.
Additionally, trekkers are required to obtain a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card, which costs around NPR 2,000 for individual trekkers. The TIMS card is designed to ensure trekkers’ safety and help authorities manage trekking routes in Nepal. The card is also used to keep track of trekkers in case of emergency situations. Both the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the TIMS card are mandatory for anyone attempting the Gokyo Valley Trek. The experts at Holiday Treks & Expedition assist in obtaining these permits and ensure that all paperwork is in order, allowing you to focus on your trekking adventure.
Best Time for Gokyo Valley Trek
The best time to trek in the Gokyo Valley is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons, which are considered the ideal months for this trek due to favorable weather conditions and clear skies. The spring season, typically from March to May, offers pleasant temperatures and an abundance of rhododendron blossoms, making the journey visually stunning. During this period, daytime temperatures in the lower altitudes are comfortable, while the higher altitudes, including Gokyo Lake and the surrounding peaks, remain clear and crisp, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
The autumn season, from September to November, is another great time for the Gokyo Valley Trek. During these months, the monsoon rains have subsided, leaving behind clear skies and fresh landscapes. The trekking conditions are dry and cool, with minimal cloud cover, making it perfect for stunning views of Mount Everest and the other majestic peaks. The temperatures are moderate, though it can get quite chilly at higher elevations, particularly at night. However, the weather conditions during autumn provide trekkers with excellent visibility and optimal trekking conditions. Holiday Treks & Expedition ensures that you trek at the most favorable time, tailoring your journey to the season to guarantee a safe and memorable experience.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) then trek to Phakding.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.) takes about five hours.
Day 4: Rest at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization at a high altitude before heading off towards Tyangboche.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3800m) takes about four hours.
Day 6: Trek from Thame to Khumjung (3790m) takes about five hours.
Day 7: Trek from Khumjung to Dole (4040m) takes about five and half hours.
Day 8: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4150m) takes about five hours.
Day 9: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4750m) takes about four and half hours.
Day 10: Rest day at Gokyo when you may go for excursion in and around Gokyo valley.
Day 11: Trek/climb from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5483m) and then trek back to Machhermo (4150m.) via.
Day 12: Trek from Machhermo (4150m.) to Namche Bazaar (3440m.) takes about five hours.
Day 13: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886 m.) takes about six hours.
Day 14: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Day 15: Rest Day in Kathmandu
Day 16: International Departure.
Difficulty for Gokyo Valley Trek:
Altitude:
Highest Point: Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet)
Altitude Sickness: The trek involves high altitudes where altitude sickness can be a concern. Proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to help manage this risk.
Trekking Conditions:
Terrain: The trail includes a mix of well-trodden paths, steep ascents, rocky trails, and some glacier crossings (particularly if you opt to cross Cho La Pass). While the main Gokyo Valley route is relatively well-defined, some sections can be challenging.
Weather: Weather conditions can vary significantly. In the Everest region, temperatures can drop sharply, and weather can be unpredictable, with snow and rain possible even outside the monsoon season.
Physical Demands:
Daily Hiking: Trekkers typically cover 5-7 hours of hiking each day, which requires a good level of fitness. Long days of trekking combined with high altitudes can be physically demanding.
Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is essential to adjust to the thinning air at high altitudes. The itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo to mitigate altitude sickness risks.
Technical Challenges:
Cho La Pass (Optional): If you choose to cross the Cho La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet), it adds a technical challenge to the trek. The pass involves crossing a glacier, and conditions can be icy and slippery. Trekking poles and sometimes crampons are useful.
Some Tips for the trip:
Fitness Training: Regular cardio exercises (like running or cycling) and strength training (particularly for legs and core) will help you handle the trek better.
Acclimatization: Follow the acclimatization schedule carefully to allow your body to adjust to higher altitudes.
Gear: Invest in good quality gear, including insulated clothing, sturdy trekking boots, and a reliable sleeping bag.
Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to keep energy levels up.
Altitude Awareness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and be prepared to descend if necessary.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival in Kathmandu international airport. Our representative will meet you in Kathmandu international airport, arrival waiting hall. Transfer you to a Hotel in Kathmandu. Check in at the hotel on Bed & Breakfast plan. Evening meeting and paper collection. Briefing about the details program. Welcome dinner in Nepali Restaurant.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) then trek to Phakding.
Early breakfast in Kathmandu. Drive towards the domestic airport section for flight to Lukla. Today's excursion starts from Lukla and gently climbs the hill on the left bank of Dudh Koshi river. Nufla (5885 m), visible in the distance on the other side, is the summit of the Condé ridge. If you go down the mountain way that links to the Everest route, you will see a valley on your right. And at its far end you can see Kusum Kang (6367m). Dudh Kosi approached as he passed the Mani wall and reached the tea house Ghat. Continue on the small path with many ups and downs on the left side of Dudh Koshi towards Phakding.
Overnight at the hotel in Phakding
Day 3 : Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.)
Today you crossed the river by walking on a high suspension bridge. Beyond Monjo (2,800m) is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park, which was established to preserve and protect this fragile mountain environment. It is a steep climb up to Namche Bazaar, on the way if the weather is clear you will be able to see Mount Everest in the distance. You can also enjoy the views of Mount Kusum Kangaru, Thamserku, Konde-Ri and Tawache peaks. You will also visit some village churches while walking to Namche Bazaar (3440m).
Overnight at the hostel in Namche
Day 4 : Rest at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization at a high altitude before heading off towards Tyangboche.
For acclimatization, you will walk to Khunde Hospital founded by the late Sir Edmund Hillary and you can also trek for one hour to Tyangboche (3800 m), where the Everest View Hotel is located above Namche, with a magnificent view of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. There are also good views of the National Park Center and Museum over the city.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3800m)
From Namche, the route turns west and the road is almost flat as you go into the Bhote Koshi valley. After descending at Bhote Koshi, the trail climbs steeply to Thame. There are good views of the Teng Kang poche and Kwangde peaks, and to the north is Nangpa La, a Tibetan Mountain pass.
Overnight in Thame.
Day 6 : Trek from Thame to Khumjung (3790m)
You follow your route along the Bhote Koshi valley to Namche and branch off to Khumjung along a quiet trail. It is a charming village which also has its own Gompa at the upper end of the town. From here you have a great view of Thamserku, Kantega and Ama Dablam.
Overnight in Khumjung
Day 7 : Trek from Khumjung to Dole (4040m)
Shortly after leaving Khumjung, the trail ascends to a large chorten at the top of the ridge. This ridge descends from Khumbila at a height of 5734 meters. The road descends slightly to Sanasa and then ascends to Mongla (4000 m.). It offers a panoramic view of various mountains. The trek descends steeply through Phortse Tenga and from there the trail climbs steeply to Dole, through a forest of rhododendrons and birches full of hanging mosses and lichens.
Overnight in Dole
Day 8 : Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4150m)
Departing at Dole, you move up a gradual slope along the valley's border, where small and delicate shrubs gradually give way to juniper as the elevation rises. The route passes several summer residences. Before you are majestic views of Cho Oyu, while in the valley below are the peaks of Kantega and Thamserku. It's a short day and you'll arrive in Machhermo in time for lunch.
Overnight in Machhermo
Day 9 : Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4750m)
Today you go to the Gokyo Lakes. You go along a very scenic route to Pangka and then you descend a bit, following one of the meltwaters. The rivers flow along the western side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. You climb a steep rock slope into the valley next to the glacier, passing the first sacred lake. You will soon reach another lake, crossing the road that leads over the glacier to Cho Lash (5420m), your way to Lobuche and Everest and then the trek. The third lake is known as Dudh Pokhari and on its eastern shore is the settlement of Gokyo.
Overnight in Gokyo
Day 10 : Rest day at Gokyo when you may go for excursion in and around Gokyo valley.
Gokyo is a touristic center where Sherpas run lodges to provide the best service to hikers. Gokyo is located next to Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. On this day, you can also travel to the Fifth Lake via the Fourth Lake.
Overnight in Gokyo lake.
Day 11 : Trek/climb from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5483m) and then trek back to Machhermo (4150m.)
Gokyo village takes about four and a half hours. Gokyo Ri overlooks the village on the northern edge of the lake, and you leave camp just after first light along a steep hillside road. As you climb, the peaks of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu slowly come into view, and the view from the top of Gokyo Ri is one of the best in the Everest region - some say it's even better than Kala Patthar. After lunch there is a short walk to the village of Machhermo.
Overnight in Machhermo
Day 12 : Trek from Machhermo (4150m.) to Namche Bazaar (3440m.)
It gently slopes down to Dole and then begins a steep descent through mountainous forests, ultimately reaching Photse Tenga (3650 m) The trail then immediately climbs steeply to Mongla Danda (4000m) and descends gently to Kyanjoma (3500m) along a small up-down trail to the destination.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar
Day 13 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886 m.)
Today is the last day of your trek will mark the journey from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, passing through Monjo. The trek is pleasant except for some short climbs up and then down to the Bhote-Koshi river crossing it three times. A final 45-minute uphill climb takes you to Lukla for the night.
Overnight in Lukla.
Day 14 : Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
After breakfast in Lukla, Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali, Ramechhap takes 35 minutes. You take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu or Manthali. After arriving in Kathmandu or Manthali airport, then drive to the Hotel in Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 15 : Rest Day in Kathmandu
This day is an extra day for the trek. Sometime weather causes problems for flight to Kathmandu from Lukla, in that situation you can use that day for flight.
Day 16 : International Departure.
After breakfast, we will drop you at the Kathmandu international airport as you scheduled flight.