Gokyo Valley Trek

based on 6 reviewsRecommended by 99% travelers
Gokyo Valley trek
At a Glance
  • Duration13 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Starts Kathamandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Max. Altitude 5,357m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Trip Type Tea-House
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Guiding Method English
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn

Trek highlights - Gokyo Valley Trek

  • The trek includes the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest glacier, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, a group of clear blue lakes located between 4,700 and 5,000 meters, showing the amazing beauty of the Himalayas.
  • Climbing Gokyo Ri, which is 5,357 meters high, gives you an incredible view of the Everest region, including four of the world’s tallest mountains, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, with sunrise and sunset turning the snowy peaks golden and pink.
  • The Gokyo Lakes are six sacred blue lakes formed by glaciers, sitting high in the mountains, offering peace and stunning views, especially from the nearby Gokyo Ri summit.
  • The Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas at over 36 kilometres, is a huge area of ice, cracks, and rocky debris, giving trekkers a chance to see the impressive power of glaciers.
  • The Sherpa culture, deeply connected to Buddhism, is shown through old monasteries, local festivals, and the kind and welcoming Sherpa people, giving you a special cultural experience.
  • Trekking in the heart of the Himalayas takes you through different landscapes, from green valleys and forests to rocky paths and dry high-altitude areas, making it an exciting and memorable journey.
  • The trail passes through traditional Sherpa villages with stone houses and fields, surrounded by tall mountains, and ancient Buddhist monasteries with prayer flags and art, offering a calm and spiritual atmosphere.

Gokyo Valley Trek Overview

Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in the Everest region. This trek takes you to Gokyo Ri, a stunning viewpoint, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, a group of breathtaking Himalayan glacial lakes. With towering peaks over 8,000 meters and pristine alpine lakes, this route is considered one of the most scenic trails in the Himalayas.

The trail winds through the magical Gokyo Valley, surrounded by untouched natural beauty and towering peaks. The scenery is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of world-famous mountains like Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), and Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m). The combination of snow-covered summits, deep valleys, and shimmering lakes creates an unforgettable trekking experience.

At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we offer a 13 day Gokyo Valley Trek, starting and ending in Kathmandu. The journey begins with a flight to Lukla, followed by a steady walk from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant center of the Khumbu region. To help trekkers adjust to the altitude, we include a rest day in Namche, featuring a short hike to Everest View Hotel, which offers stunning views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

As the trek continues through Dole and Machhermo, the altitude gradually increases, leading to the picturesque Gokyo Valley, home to the famous Gokyo Lakes. One of the biggest highlights of the trek is the hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), which rewards trekkers with some of the most spectacular views in the Himalayas. The return journey follows the same route through Dole and Namche, allowing for a gradual descent before flying back to Kathmandu.

With a well-planned itinerary, proper acclimatisation days, and fewer crowds than the Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Valley Trek is a perfect choice for those seeking both adventure and serenity in the Himalayas.

Bookings for 2025 are now open! If you’re interested, you can check the availability and pricing of the 13 days Gokyo Valley Trek in the section below. If you would like to customize the itinerary or adjust the trekking duration, we also offer tailored services. Feel free to contact us for more details!

Where is the Gokyo Valley Trek Located?

The Gokyo Valley Trek is in the Everest region of Nepal, a place that feels like it’s from another world. Imagine towering snowy mountains, bright blue lakes and small Sherpa villages, that’s the beauty of Gokyo Valley, a truly majestic place.

To reach it, you first take a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town known as the starting point for treks in the Himalayas. From there, you walk through green forests, cross wobbly bridges over rushing rivers, and pass through villages like Namche Bazaar, a lively spot in the mountains. As you go higher, the air gets thinner, the views get more amazing, and the adventure feels even more exciting.

Gokyo Valley sits high up, between 4,700 and 5,000 meters, surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in the world, like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. It’s a peaceful, untouched place where nature feels wild and powerful. The valley is famous for the Gokyo Lakes, a group of stunning blue lakes that reflect the mountains, and Gokyo Ri, a peak with one of the most incredible views you’ll ever see.

How does the Gokyo Valley Trek differ from the classic Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Gokyo Valley Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek are both amazing trekking routes in the Himalayas, but they offer different experiences. Think of them as two exciting stories—one takes you deep into the peaceful heart of the mountains, while the other follows the famous path of past climbers.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is the most well-known. It is the one many people dream of because it takes you right to the base of Mount Everest. Along the way, you will pass through lively villages like Namche Bazaar, cross high suspension bridges, and visit the famous Tengboche monastery. The trail is busy with trekkers from all over the world, making it feel like a grand journey filled with history and excitement.

On the other hand, the Gokyo Valley Trek is quieter and more scenic. Instead of heading to Everest Base Camp, this trek takes you to the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes, beautiful blue glacial lakes surrounded by towering peaks. You will also climb Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint that offers one of the best panoramic views in the Everest region. From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, with the lakes shining below. Since fewer people take this route, you will often feel like you have the mountains all to yourself.

The landscapes are also different. The Everest Base Camp Trek goes through the Khumbu Valley, passing through busy villages and well-known stops. However, the Gokyo Valley Trek takes you past the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas. Walking beside this endless stretch of ice feels like stepping into another world.

Both treks are challenging, but the Gokyo Valley Trek is slightly harder because of the higher altitude and the climb to Gokyo Ri. However, the reward is a sense of peace and natural beauty that’s hard to beat. While the Everest Base Camp Trek is about adventure and history, the Gokyo Valley Trek is about solitude and stunning scenery.

Choosing between the two depends on what kind of experience you want. If you dream of standing at the foot of Everest, go for the Everest Base Camp Trek. But if you prefer quieter trails, shimmering lakes, and incredible views, the Gokyo Valley Trek might be the perfect choice. Either way, both treks promise an unforgettable adventure.

If you're interested in the EBC trek, we offer a 16-day Everest Base Camp trek. Feel free to check it out!

How difficult is the Gokyo Valley Trek?

The Gokyo Valley Trek is a moderate-level trek in the Everest region, meaning it’s challenging but manageable for most trekkers. You will be walking 5–6 hours a day on mountain trails, so being physically prepared is important. If you can comfortably walk this long, you should be able to complete the trek. To make the journey easier, it is recommended to do some basic physical training before starting.

One of the biggest challenges is the cold weather. The Gokyo Valley has a tundra climate, meaning temperatures stay low all year round, even in warmer months. The cold can be tough, so packing the right clothes is essential to stay warm and comfortable.

The trek is mostly peaceful and scenic, but some parts, such as high passes and rough trails, can be difficult for beginners. To make the trek safer and easier, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed guide. The good news is that our 13 days Gokyo Valley Trek itinerary at Himalayan Joy Adventure includes an experienced guide, a porter, and all necessary permits to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Note: For details on essential gear for the Gokyo Valley trek, check the "Useful Info" section below.

Gokyo Valley Trek Cost in 2025

The cost of the Gokyo Valley trek is between USD $1600 and USD $1800. The price can change based on factors like group size. Solo travellers often pay more, while people trekking in a group can save money. In a group, the cost for the porter and guide is shared, and transportation becomes cheaper.

At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we offer a 13-day Gokyo Valley Trek for USD 1650 per person. This price includes most of the essentials, like a guide, lodging, and permits. We also offer discounts for larger groups. The bigger the group, the lower the price. You can check the price table below.

No of PaxStarting price (Per Person)
1-2 paxUSD 1650
3-5 paxUSD 1600
6-10 paxUSD 1550
11-15 paxUSD 1500
16-20 paxUSD 1450

If you have any questions regarding the 13 days Gokyo Valley Trek's price or itinerary, please feel free to contact us via WhatsApp.

Itinerary

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Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will be there to welcome you. We will assist you with your bags and transfer you to your hotel in the city. After checking in, you can take a rest or explore the nearby streets at your own pace.

In the afternoon, you will visit our office for a short briefing about the Gokyo Valley Trek. We will explain the route, talk about daily walking hours, and answer any questions you may have. In the evening, we invite you to a warm welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1300 m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Dinner

Early in the morning, you take a short and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. On clear days, the flight offers beautiful views of hills, deep valleys, and distant Himalayan peaks. After landing at Lukla, you meet your trekking team and take a moment to organize your bags.

From here, the walk to Phakding begins gently. The trail follows a comfortable downhill path through small Sherpa villages such as Chaurikharka and Chilung. You will notice prayer stones, colorful flags, and the quiet flow of the Dudh Koshi River beside you. This first day of trekking is kept short to help your body adjust gradually to the higher altitude.

By early afternoon, you reach Phakding, a peaceful village beside the river. You can settle into your lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and take a relaxing walk around the area before resting for the night.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 2610 m
  • Duration: 4 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast in Phakding, you begin your walk toward Namche Bazaar. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and passes through small villages such as Toktok, Benkar, and Monjo. Just before Monjo, you enter Sagarmatha National Park, where your permits are checked.

From here, the trail continues through forested paths and across several suspension bridges. The river stays close by, creating a calm atmosphere as you move toward Jorsalle, the last village before Namche. After crossing the long bridge near the base of the hill, the trail begins to climb steadily.

This final ascent to Namche is gradual but feels rewarding. Partway up, you reach a viewpoint known as Top Danda, where you may see your first glimpse of Mount Everest on a clear day.

After about six to seven hours of walking, you arrive at Namche Bazaar, the main trading town of the Khumbu region. The village has cozy tea houses, shops, bakeries, and great views of the surrounding mountains. You settle into your lodge and enjoy a comfortable evening at altitude.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 3440 M.
  • Duration: 6 - 7 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Today is your acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. After breakfast, you begin a gentle hike toward the Everest View Hotel. The trail climbs slowly above the village, passing through pine trees and open viewpoints.

As you walk higher, the landscape becomes wider, and the mountains appear more clearly. From the terrace of the hotel, you can enjoy a calm and beautiful view of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks. This spot is ideal for taking photos and spending a quiet moment with the mountains.

You return to Namche for lunch. The rest of the day is free for exploring the town, visiting the Sherpa museum, or enjoying a warm drink at a café. Keeping the pace light helps your body adjust to the altitude before moving deeper into the Gokyo Valley.

Day Overview:

  • Duration: 4 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You leave Namche after breakfast and follow a comfortable trail that stays high above the Dudh Koshi valley. The first part of the walk is almost flat, offering clear views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding hills. After about an hour, the path splits near Sanasa, where you take the route toward the Gokyo Valley.

From here, the trail climbs gradually through pine and rhododendron forest until you reach Mong La. This small village sits on a ridge and provides a quiet place to rest while enjoying the scenery. After a short break, you descend to Phortse Tenga, a small settlement beside the river where many trekkers stop for lunch.

The afternoon climb from Phortse Tenga to Dole is steady and surrounded by forest. The trees become thinner as you gain altitude, and the landscape begins to open. After around five to six hours of walking in total, you arrive in Dole, a small cluster of tea houses with a peaceful mountain atmosphere.

It is a nice place to rest for the night and let your body adjust to the higher elevation.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 4038 m
  • Duration: 5 - 6 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After a quiet night in Dole, you start your morning with a gentle climb out of the village. The trail rises steadily along the side of the valley, offering open views of the mountains and the long stretch of the Dudh Koshi River far below.

As you walk, you pass small grazing areas where yaks and mountain goats are often seen. The vegetation becomes thinner, and the landscape feels more alpine. There are a few tea shops along the way where you can stop for tea and take in the scenery.

After around three to four hours of easy, relaxed walking, you reach Machhermo. This small settlement sits in a wide valley with beautiful mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere. You arrive by early afternoon, giving you time to rest or take a short walk around the village.

Machhermo is an important acclimatization stop on the way to Gokyo, so the day is kept shorter to help your body adjust comfortably.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 4470 m
  • Duration: 3 -4 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, you begin your gradual ascent toward Gokyo. The trail climbs gently out of Machhermo and follows the valley upward, with open views on both sides. As you walk, the mountains feel closer, and the air becomes cooler and clearer.

The route soon reaches a small ridge from where you can see the first Gokyo Lake glimmering below. This marks the entrance to the upper valley. You take a short break here before continuing along the trail that skirts the edge of the lake.

A little further ahead, you pass the second lake, which appears still and quiet against the rocky landscape. After another short stretch of walking, you arrive at the third lake, Gokyo Lake, one of the most beautiful points of the entire trek. The turquoise water and its reflection of Cho Oyu create a peaceful, unforgettable setting.

Gokyo village sits right beside the lake. After checking into your lodge, you can enjoy lunch with a view of the water and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the shoreline or simply relaxing. The atmosphere here is calm and refreshing, making it a wonderful place to spend the night.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 4790 m
  • Duration: 5 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You begin the day early in the morning with a steady climb toward Gokyo Ri. The trail rises gradually above the village and offers wider views with every step. As you gain height, the third lake appears far below, and the surrounding peaks begin to open into a full panorama.

Reaching the top of Gokyo Ri is a special moment. From here, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu together in one long stretch of horizon. If you arrive around sunrise, the warm light touching the mountains creates a peaceful and memorable scene. You spend some time here enjoying the stillness before making your way back down to Gokyo.

After lunch, you can take a relaxed walk along the lakeside or explore the nearby viewpoints at your own pace. The Gokyo Valley offers calm surroundings, gentle paths, and plenty of open space to enjoy the views. This extra time helps with acclimatization and lets you experience the quiet beauty of the region.

By evening, you return to your lodge for dinner and rest.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 4038 m
  • Duration: 6 -7 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, you begin your descent from Gokyo. The trail follows the same route you used on the way up, passing along the side of the lakes and gradually dropping into the wider valley below. As you walk, you can enjoy your last views of Cho Oyu and the quiet blue water of Gokyo Lake behind you.

The descent feels easier on the body, and the landscape shifts slowly from rocky hills to areas with more vegetation. You pass Machhermo on the way and may stop here for tea or lunch, depending on your pace.

After a relaxed afternoon walk, you continue down the valley until you reach Dole. The village sits on an open hillside and has a peaceful atmosphere in the evenings. You settle into your lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and rest after the long but comfortable descent.

Day Overview:

 
  • Max. Altitude: 3440 m
  • Duration: 6 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast in Dole, you begin your walk down the valley. The trail descends gradually through open hillsides before entering forested areas filled with pine and rhododendron trees. As you follow the path, you pass Phortse Tenga beside the river, a peaceful place where many trekkers take a short break.

From Phortse Tenga, the trail climbs gently toward Mong La, a small ridge-top village with beautiful views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding valleys. After enjoying the scenery, you continue your descent toward Namche. The path becomes wider as you approach the town, and the familiar sight of colorful houses appears in the distance.

By afternoon, you arrive back in Namche Bazaar. After several days in the quiet upper valley, Namche feels lively and welcoming. You can enjoy a warm meal, visit a bakery, or relax in your lodge for the evening.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 2845 m
  • Duration: 8 Hrs.
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, you begin your final full day of trekking. The trail descends steeply from Namche to the river, where you cross the long suspension bridge that marks the start of the lower valley. From here, the path becomes gentler and follows familiar forests and riverbanks.

You pass through Jorsalle, Monjo, and Phakding, retracing your steps from earlier in the trek. The walk feels easier with the lower altitude and relaxed pace. Along the way, you will see small waterfalls, prayer stones, and quiet villages where trekkers and locals often share the trail.

As you approach Lukla, the trail rises gradually for the final short climb. Reaching the village feels rewarding after many days in the mountains. You settle into your lodge, enjoy a warm meal, and take time to reflect on your journey through the Gokyo Valley.

This is your last night in the Khumbu region.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1300 m
  • Duration: 30 -35 Minutes
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You begin the morning with an early flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The short journey offers one last look at the hills and valleys of the Khumbu region. Once you land in Kathmandu, our team will transfer you to your hotel, where you can rest after many days of trekking.

The rest of the day is free. You may choose to relax at the hotel, explore local markets, or enjoy a meal at a nearby café. In the evening, the Himalayan Joy Adventure team welcomes you to a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, giving you a chance to celebrate your journey and share your experiences.

Day Overview:

  • Meals: Breakfast

The 12 days Gokyo Valley Trek itinerary includes two nights in a Kathmandu hotel and one acclimatization day in Namche Bazar. Let us know if you'd like any modifications. Our expert can customize the itinerary to fit your travel plans.

Gokyo Valley Trek Route Map

Gokyo Valley Trek map

Service Details

What's Included
  • Airport picks up and drops by private tourist vehicle.
  • 3 nights hotel (3 star category) in Kathmandu on B/B plan.
  • Flight to and from Lukla (15 kg baggage per person)
  • Accommodation and meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) in the whole trekking.
  • One day sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.
  • English speaking guide.
  • Porter (one porter for two people)
  • Insurance for the staffs
  • Local transportation
  • Himalayan Joy Adventure T-shirt and Duffel bag
  • National park and TIMS permits.
What's not Included
  • Travel insurance which should covers emergency rescue and evacuation (most required)
  • International flight fare
  • Entrance fees while you are in sightseeing in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan.
  • Nepal entry visa, which can be obtained easily upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.
  • Drinks such as mineral water, cola, sprite, fanta and beer etc.
  • Personal trekking and climbing equipments.
  • Tips for trekking / tour staffs and driver.
  • If incase flight delayed or canceled, the extra expenses such as hotel and food. (If regular flight is canceled, can fly by helicopter to assure your destination. The extra cost will be covered by your insurance) 
Availability and Price
Departure Dates
FromDec 17, 2025
ToDec 29, 2025
PriceUS$1650
StatusGuaranteed

Please confirm your available dates for the 13 days Gokyo Valley Trek in 2025. If the dates don't align with your holiday plans, feel free to contact us on WhatsApp or send us an email.

Useful Information

Best Time for the Gokyo Valley Trek

The best seasons for trekking in the Gokyo Valley are Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May).

During autumn, the days are warm and sunny, with dry, clear weather that provides excellent mountain views and dazzling night skies. This season follows the monsoon, leaving the landscape lush and green. Autumn also coincides with Nepal’s major festivals, adding a cultural charm to your journey.

In spring, the cold recedes, bringing warmer days and ideal trekking conditions. However, higher altitudes may still experience occasional storms and snowfall. This season showcases nature in full bloom, with birdsong filling the air and the scent of flowers enhancing the trek. 

The hills burst into vibrant colors with rhododendron blossoms, while the lower regions are lush and green, making spring a magical time to explore the Gokyo Valley.

 

What essential gears for the Gokyo Valley Trek?

Packing for the Gokyo Valley Trek isn’t just about throwing things into your bag, it’s about being ready for the changing weather in the mountains. The right gear can make your trek comfortable and enjoyable instead of difficult and tiring.

Clothing: Dress in Layers

The weather in the mountains can change quickly. Mornings and evenings are cold, but afternoons can be warm. Wearing layers helps you adjust to these changes. Here’s what you need:

  • Base Layer: Thermal shirts and pants to keep your body warm and dry.
  • Middle Layer: A fleece or down jacket to trap heat.
  • Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket to protect against rain, snow, and strong winds.
  • Trekking Pants & Shirts: Lightweight, breathable clothes that dry quickly. Bring one warm pair for colder nights.
  • Gloves & Hat: Warm gloves and a woolen hat to protect against the cold.
  • Scarf or Buff: Helps block wind, dust, and cold air.

Footwear: Keep Your Feet Comfortable

  • Trekking Boots: Strong, waterproof boots with ankle support. Break them in before the trek to avoid blisters.
  • Socks: Wool or synthetic socks keep your feet warm and dry.
  • Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for resting at the tea houses.

Essential Gear for a Safe Trek

  • Backpack (40-50L): A comfortable bag with good support. If you have a porter, a small daypack (20-30L) is enough.
  • Sleeping Bag: A warm sleeping bag (rated for at least -10°C) since tea house blankets may not be enough.
  • Trekking Poles: Helps with balance and reduces strain on your knees, especially on steep trails.
  • Headlamp: Needed for early morning hikes. Bring extra batteries.
  • Sunglasses & Sunscreen: Protects your eyes and skin from the strong mountain sun.
  • Water Bottles & Purification Tablets: Staying hydrated is very important. Purification tablets help make tap water safe to drink.

Some Extras Tips 

  • Snacks & Energy Bars: Extra energy for long trekking days.
  • First Aid Kit: Includes painkillers, altitude sickness medicine, band-aids, and personal medication.
  • Notebook & Pen: To write down your experiences and memories.

What are the risks of altitude sickness, and how can you prevent it?

Altitude sickness can sneak up on you when trekking in the mountains, so it’s something every traveler should take seriously. It happens when your body struggles to adjust to the thin air at high altitudes. It can affect anyone, whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer. But don’t worry! With the right knowledge and simple precautions, you can stay safe and enjoy your trek.

Signs of Altitude Sickness

If you start feeling unwell at high altitude, look for these signs:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness or feeling sick
  • Loss of appetite
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Shortness of breath

If it gets worse, you might feel confused, extremely tired, or struggle to walk. In rare cases, it can be life-threatening.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness

The good news is that altitude sickness is largely preventable if you take the right steps. Here’s how:

1) Take It Slow
Your body needs time to adjust to the altitude. Follow the golden rule: “Climb high, sleep low.” Most treks, like Gokyo Valley or Everest Base Camp, include rest days—use them! Don’t rush.

2) Drink Lots of Water
The thin air and physical activity can make you dehydrated fast. Aim to drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can make dehydration worse.

3) Listen to Your Body
If you feel headaches, dizziness, or nausea, don’t ignore it. Your body is telling you to slow down. Rest, drink water, and if symptoms get worse, go to a lower altitude.

4) Take Medicine if Needed
Some trekkers take Diamox (Acetazolamide) to help their body adjust. It’s not a cure, but it can help. Ask your doctor before your trip to see if it’s right for you.

5) Eat Well
A good diet keeps your energy up. Carbs (like rice, pasta, and bread) are easy to digest at high altitudes, so eat plenty!

6) Know the Signs
Learn the symptoms of altitude sickness so you can act quickly. If someone has trouble breathing, confusion, or difficulty walking, they need to descend immediately and get medical help.

7) Travel with a Guide
A licensed guide can spot early signs of altitude sickness and help you make safe decisions. They’ll also take care of permits, logistics, and planning so you can focus on enjoying your trek.

Altitude sickness is a real risk, but it doesn’t have to ruin your adventure. By going slow, drinking water, and listening to your body, you can reduce the chances of getting sick. Remember, your health comes first and there’s no shame in taking your time or turning back if needed. The mountains will always be there for another adventure!

Is WiFi and electricity available during the trek?

When trekking in the Gokyo Valley, you will be surrounded by nature, but WiFi and electricity can be a bit tricky at times. Here's what you can expect:

Electricity

Most villages along the trail have electricity, but it’s not always steady, especially the higher you go. In the lower villages, you will find basic electricity, usually from solar power or small generators. But at higher altitudes, electricity might be less reliable. It’s a good idea to bring a portable power bank to charge your devices. Some teahouses offer to charge your electronics, but there’s often a small fee for this service.

WiFi

Some teahouses have WiFi, but the connection can be slow and sometimes unpredictable. Since the internet in the mountains relies on satellite connections, it may not always work well, especially the higher you get. If you need to stay connected, try to use WiFi only for important things like messages or checking in with family. But it’s also a great chance to disconnect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

You may check out our blog on "Can we get WiFi or phone coverage on the Everest Base Camp trek?"

What are some cultural aspects to be aware of while trekking in the Everest region?

When trekking in the Everest region, you're not just seeing amazing mountains—you’re also experiencing a unique culture. The people who live here have their own traditions, and it’s important to be respectful. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Respect for Religion

Buddhism plays a big part in the lives of the people here. You’ll see monasteries, prayer flags, and stupas (shrines) along the trail. Be careful not to touch or climb on any religious items, and don’t let prayer flags touch the ground. You’ll also see locals praying and spinning prayer wheels. Give them space and don’t interrupt their prayers.

2. Greeting Locals

The common greeting here is “Namaste”, which means “hello” or “I bow to you.” It’s a respectful way to greet others, and people often put their hands together in a prayer-like position. Be sure to greet people with a smile and say “Namaste” back—it shows respect and kindness.

3. Modesty in Dress

When trekking, it’s good to dress modestly—avoid wearing clothes that are too revealing. The people in the villages tend to be more traditional, and dressing simply shows respect for their culture.

4. Taking Photos

You’ll want to take photos of the beautiful mountains, but always ask before taking pictures of people. Some locals may not be comfortable with their photos being taken, so it’s polite to ask first.

5. Respect the Environment and Animals

The people here see nature as sacred, so always pick up your trash and leave the environment as you found it. If you see animals like yaks, don’t get too close or disturb them. They are important to the local people, and they deserve respect too.

6. Tipping and Showing Thanks

Tipping is common, especially for your guide, porter, and teahouse staff. It’s a nice way to show appreciation for their help during your trek. While tipping isn’t required, it’s a thoughtful way to say thank you for their hard work.

Gokyo Valley Trek FAQs

  • The highest altitude in the Gokyo Lake trek is Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft). Gokyo Ri is one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region.

  • Normally, we need 8 -14 days for the Gokyo Lake trek.

  • Wifi and mobile connectivity on the Gokyo Valley Trek are limited. Most of the tea houses have wifi(AirLink and Everest Link) for a fee, but it's slow and unreliable. Mobile network (mainly Ncell and Namaste) works in lower sections but is weak or absent at higher altitudes.

  • The Gokyo Valley trek is a moderately challenging trek with steep ascents, high altitudes (up to 5,357m at Gokyo Ri), and long trekking days, requiring good fitness and acclimatization.

  • A guide and porter are not mandatory for the Gokyo Valley Trek, but they are highly recommended for navigation, safety, and carrying heavy loads, especially in high-altitude conditions.

  • Yes, you can trek to Gokyo Lake in winter, but it will be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. The trails may be covered in snow and ice, requiring proper gear and preparation for harsh conditions.

  • The best time to trek to Gokyo Lake is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and breathtaking mountain views.

  • Yes, you can swim in Gokyo Lake, but the water is extremely cold, even in summer, due to its high-altitude location (4,700–5,000m). Most visitors avoid swimming because of the risk of hypothermia.

  • Tipping is widely accepted and often expected when trekking in Nepal, especially within the tourism industry. If you've hired a guide or porter, it's customary to tip them. Aim to give your trekking guide and porters around 15% of the total amount you paid to your tour company.

13Days
Price Per PersonUS$1650US$1700
Starts:KathamanduEnds:Kathmandu
We Offer Group Discount Price
1 - 2 pax
US$1650
3 - 5 pax
US$1600
6 - 10 pax
US$1550
11 - 15 pax
US$1500
16 - 20 pax
US$1450
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Traveler Reviews
What Our Happy Clients Say
  • Gokyo Valley Trek
    Engaged Himalayan Joy Adventure for our Gokyo Valley Trek based on the recommendations given by everyone else.

    Planned the trip with Cholendra and the trek was guided by Tika with Jon as our porter. The trek is an unforgettable experience and the whole team was very knowledgeable and some of the friendliest people I've met.

    Tika was patient and had so many great information to share along the trek. He even spent some time with us in Kathmandu after the trek as time permitted. From the moment you arrive in the airport until you're flying back, their hospitality has been the best.

    I definitely recommend Himalayan Joy Adventure to anyone planning on hiking/trekking in Nepal!
     
    Navin Raj
    Navin RajMalaysia,Apr 14, 2023
    TripAdvisor
  • Best trip to Gokyo!

    Himalia adventure is the place to go when wanting to travel safely in the mountains. Amazing experience, professional planning, guides, and porters. I loved every minute and I highly recommend it. I know my next trip - will be only with Cholendra and his great team!

    Noamlev88
    Noamlev88Israel,Jan 20, 2017
    TripAdvisor
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