How challenging is Gokyo Valley Trek?

Gokyo Valley Trek isn’t as difficult as other strenuous treks in the Himalayas. It has moderately suitable trails that can be traversed by any hiker, even beginners with strong physical health. The paths to Gokyo Valley are unpaved with several highs and lows, which can be stressful for trekkers.They may encounter rock steps with steep ascents and descents full of loose rocks and streams, which are harder to climb. Ngozumpa Glacier is probably the most challenging section of the entire trek. It has trails covered in snow, which makes the hiking a bit tricky. But apart from that, the trek can be easily done without any difficulties.

Are trekking permits required for Gokyo Valley Trek?

The trail running to Gokyo Valley makes its way through the Sagarmatha National Park, so trekkers will have to get their entry fee to the sanctuary, which costs US$30 for foreign nationals. Visitors from SAARC countries get off on the trekking permit with the fee costing only US$15.

Where does the trek start?

The actual trail of Gokyo Valley starts from Lukla and ends back in the town. It runs through remote settlements, deep valleys, and gorges to end up at the beautiful Gokyo Valley. While this is the longest way, it allows trekkers to get enough rest and relish the scenic view of diverse landscapes.Trekking from the lower hills like Lukla also helps the hikers to avoid altitude sickness. Those who are in a rush can take a direct helicopter flight to the valley or stop at any nearest village. By skipping the treks, they’ll be saving a lot of time and energy.

Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a stunning journey in the Everest region, offering some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in Nepal. This trek takes you to the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes, nestled at high altitude amidst towering Himalayan peaks. Unlike the classic Everest Base Camp route, the Gokyo Trek offers quieter trails and spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu from the famous Gokyo Ri viewpoint.

Along the way, you’ll pass through Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and rhododendron forests, experiencing rich cultural encounters and natural beauty. The trek also involves crossing the challenging Cho La Pass (5,330m), making it an adventurous option for experienced trekkers.

Ideal trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the landscapes are vivid. The Gokyo Lake Trek provides an unforgettable blend of serene lakes, majestic mountains, and Sherpa culture.

Accomodation
Hotel/ Camping
Best Season
All The Time
Maximum Altitude
5435m
Transportation
Fly/Car/Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trekking to Everest Base Camp via the Gokyo Ri and Cho La Pass route, known for its stunning blue lakes and the Cho La Pass. The Khumbu region’s attractions, friendly Sherpas, vibrant monasteries, Namche Bazaar, Sagarmatha National Park, and mighty Everest will all be your companions on this walk. The journey will offer incredible views of the Himalayan range from places like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar. The magnificent views of several peaks, including Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori, will make the trek to the EBC Trek via Gokyo Cho La Pass an unforgettable experience.

Trip Highlights

Explore the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo River.
Visiting all of the high Valley of the Khumbu with the extra time.
Cultural Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.
Adventurous trek through the Everest route.

Day 01 :

Arrival at Kathmandu Airport and Transfer to Hotel

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, where you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, receive a briefing from your guide about the upcoming trek. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02 :

Kathmandu sightseeing day

Rest day and acclimatisation to jetlag, sightseeing, plus trek briefing. Possible drive to Ramechhap** – see ‘Lukla Flight’ details below.

Day 03 :

Fly to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Take an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a 30-minute journey offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. From Lukla, begin your trek with a gentle descent along the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests and Sherpa villages. Trek approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Phakding, where you’ll stay overnight in a comfortable lodge.

Day 04 :

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Uphill to the Sherpa capital in the heart of the Khumbu region, Namche Bazaar. Initially follow the valley to Monjo where you enter the National Park, then criss-cross the river a few times and start a long unrelenting path uphill, with spectacular bridges spanning deep gorges. Leave the coniferous forest behind, and arrive at a huge natural amphitheatre with the blue-roofed houses spread around the sides. Namche is the major trading centre of the Khumbu, with Tibetans crossing the high Nangpa La Pass to reach the bustling Saturday morning market. Nowadays there are also many equipment shops, internet, bank, post office, cafes, bars, lodges and hire shops. Rest here for a day and take the chance to visit the Everest Museum.

Day 05 :

Rest in Namche (3440m/11286ft) for acclimatisation.

This idyllic town is an ideal place for"acclimatization". Health specialists recommend we spend the day being active, rather than sitting idle. From Namche it is possible to take a short hike to Everest View Resort, Thame, visit Khunde or relax and explore Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the main center of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, internet cafes, shops, restaurants, bakery, and a colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday. A short trek of only a hundred metres will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will also take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarters of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of relics related to the first mountaineers to climb Everest, Sherpa culture and discover the varied plant and animal life of the Everest region. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.

Day 06 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m) to Dole (4,018m)

Depart Namche Bazaar and begin a steady ascent through rhododendron forests and alpine terrain. Enjoy panoramic mountain views along the way as you trek approximately 5 to 6 hours to reach Dole, a quiet village nestled in the Everest region. Overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

Day 07 :

Trek from Dole (4,018m) to Machhermo (4,470m)

Continue ascending through alpine landscapes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The trail gradually climbs past small settlements and moraine fields before reaching Machhermo, a peaceful village offering spectacular mountain vistas. Overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

Day 08 :

Trek from Machhermo (4,470m) to Gokyo Lakes Village (4,750m)

Trek through high alpine terrain to reach the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Enjoy breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere of this remote village. Overnight stay at a comfortable lodge near the lakes.

Day 09 :

Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Trek Back to Dole (4,018m)

Start early with a challenging hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri, one of the best vantage points in the Everest region, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, descend back to Dole for an overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

Day 10 :

Trek from Dole (4,018m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Begin your descent from Dole, retracing your steps through alpine forests and Sherpa villages. Enjoy scenic views of the mountains and valleys as you make your way back to the bustling town of Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

Day 11 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m) to Lukla (2,860m)

Descend through lush forests and picturesque Sherpa villages, following the Dudh Koshi River valley. Enjoy the peaceful trail as you return to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

Day 12 :

Fly from Lukla to Ramechhap

Take an early morning flight from Lukla to Ramechhap Airport, a convenient alternative to Kathmandu for onward travel. Upon arrival, transfer to your next destination or continue your journey. This flight offers beautiful aerial views of the Himalayan landscape.

Day 13 :

Free Day in Kathmandu

Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu to relax, explore at your own pace, or shop for souvenirs. You may visit local markets, cafes, or explore additional cultural sites. Use this time to unwind before your departure.

Day 14 :

Final Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. We wish you a safe journey and hope you take with you wonderful memories of your Nepal adventure.

Gokyo Lake Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

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FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

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Trip Info

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Includes

Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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