Gokyo Valley Trek

based on 6 reviewsRecommended by 99% travelers
Gokyo Valley trek
At a Glance
  • Duration10 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Starts Lukla
  • Ends Lukla
  • Max. Altitude 5,357m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Trip Type Te-House
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Guiding Method English
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn

The Gokyo Valley Trek stands out as a highly sought-after journey within the Everest region. This trek leads you to the abode of the world's highest hill, Gokyo Ri, and a cluster of Himalayan lakes collectively known as Gokyo Lakes. Encompassing mountains towering above 8000 meters and numerous glacial lakes, the trek unfolds along one of the most enchanting routes.

Winding through the mystical Gokyo Valley nestled in pristine surroundings amid various mountains, this trek is a visual feast. The natural beauty along the route exceeds expectations, offering glimpses of majestic peaks such as Mt. Everest (8848 m), Mt. Makalu (8463 m), Mt. Lhotse (8516 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8201m), and more. The panorama of snow-covered vistas and intricately carved valleys is nothing short of glorious.

As you traverse the terrain, you'll find solace in the delightful valleys and crystal-clear lakes, particularly during the captivating moments of sunrise and sunset. The play of sunlight on the lake waters creates a mesmerizing dance of reflections throughout the valleys. The world's highest peak, Mt. Everest, remains an ever-present spectacle, and the trek offers a close encounter with the colossal Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in the Himalayas.

Adding to the allure of the journey are the beautiful Sherpa villages, where the warmth of hospitality is truly heartwarming. The trek provides opportunities to explore different monasteries and witness Buddhist practices, fostering a sense of spiritual relaxation. Throughout the region, you'll encounter ancient establishments reflecting centuries-old cultures and traditions.

Gokyo Valley Trek - Level of Challenge

This trek falls under the category of moderate difficulty within the Everest region, involving an average daily walking duration of 5-6 hours. If you are comfortable with this level of physical activity, successfully navigating the Gokyo Valley is well within your reach. Himalayan Joy Adventure recommends a bit of preliminary physical training for trekking enthusiasts like you before embarking on this journey.

The valley is characterized by a tundra climate, resulting in consistently low temperatures. Even during the warmest weather, you should anticipate cold conditions. Therefore, meticulous consideration should be given to packing appropriate clothing for the trek.

While this trek is generally serene, there is a possibility of getting disoriented amidst the passes and routes. For a smoother experience, we highly recommend hiring a licensed guide. Our team at Himalayan Joy Adventure is ready to assist you by arranging a guide, porter, and obtaining the necessary permits for your trekking adventure.

Best time for the Gokyo Valley trek

For trekking in the Gokyo Valley, the optimal seasons are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May).

During autumn, the sun's vibrant radiance bathes the days in pleasant warmth. The weather remains dry and clear, offering excellent visibility of the mountains and a spectacularly glittery sky.

Autumn heralds the end of the monsoon, transforming the landscape into lively green grasslands and woodlands. This season also coincides with festivals in Nepal, creating a warm and delightful atmosphere throughout your trek.

As spring unfolds, the cold weather recedes, and days become warmer, providing ideal trekking conditions. However, at higher altitudes, be prepared for occasional storms and significant snowfall.

Spring showcases nature at its finest, with the melodic chirping of birds and the enchanting fragrance of blooming flowers. The hills come alive with the vibrant colors of rhododendrons, creating a visual feast. The lower regions boast lush vegetation, making the spring season a delightful time to explore the Gokyo Valley.

Gokyo Valley Trek Difficulty

Embark on a moderate trek in the Everest region, where a typical day involves walking for 5-6 hours. If you can comfortably manage this duration of daily walking, the Gokyo Valley trek is well within your reach. Himalayan Joy Adventure recommends a bit of preliminary physical training for trekking enthusiasts like yourself before embarking on this journey.

The Gokyo Valley boasts a tundra climate, resulting in consistently low temperatures. Even in the warmest weather, cold conditions prevail, so packing with caution is essential for this trek.

While this trek is generally serene, navigating through passes and routes may pose challenges for novices. To ensure a smooth journey, we strongly advise hiring a licensed guide. Rest assured, our team at Himalayan Joy Adventure is delighted to arrange for a guide, porter, and all necessary permits for your trek.

Tips for Gokyo Valley Trek

Fitness Preparation: The trek involves walking for 6-7 hours a day, so it's advisable to engage in moderate physical training before the trek to build stamina and endurance.

Layered Clothing: The Gokyo Valley has a tundra climate with low temperatures. Pack layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Include warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, and thermal layers.

Footwear: Ensure you have comfortable, well-broken-in trekking boots with good ankle support. Carry extra pairs of socks and consider wearing moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters.

Acclimatization: Acclimatize gradually to the increasing altitude to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Plan rest days during the trek to allow your body to adjust.

Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, even if you don't feel thirsty, to combat the effects of high altitude. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption.

Pack Essentials: Carry a well-equipped backpack with essentials like a water bottle, first aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, snacks, and a camera. A trekking pole can be beneficial for stability.

Guide and Permits: Consider hiring a licensed guide for navigation, especially if you're not familiar with the region. Ensure you have all the required permits for the trek.

Camera and Binoculars: The Gokyo Valley offers stunning panoramic views, so don't forget your camera. Binoculars can also enhance your experience, especially for birdwatching.

Respect Local Culture: Respect the local customs and traditions. If you're visiting monasteries, be mindful of religious practices. Learn a few basic Nepali phrases; locals appreciate the effort.

Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and potential evacuation.

Pack Light: Keep your backpack as light as possible. Prioritize essentials and avoid unnecessary items to make the trek more comfortable.

Communication: Inform someone about your trekking plans and keep them updated. Carry a fully charged phone and consider a portable charger.

Lodge Accommodations: Accommodations along the trail are basic teahouses. Be prepared for simple facilities, and bring a sleeping bag for added comfort.

 

Itinerary

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As you land, we will see you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We will transfer you to the Hotel. First, you will check into your room and rest till afternoon. In the afternoon, we will invite you to our office for a briefing on the trek including each day plan. Himalayan Joy will host a welcome dinner in the typical Nepali restaurant. An overnight in Kathmandu in a star hotel.

    Day two is all about sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley. Some of them are Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath temple and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

      Maximum altitude: 2610 meters, Phakding
      Flight duration: 45 minutes
      Trek duration: 4 hours
      Total distance: 6.2 km
      Enjoy the most scenic 30 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The short and beautiful flight to Lukla airport is breathtaking. Lukla airport is among one of the most dangerous airports in the world.
      As you reach Lukla (2,795m), we follow the trails of Everest View Trek to Phakding (2,610m) via Chaurikharka and Chilung. Overnight at Phakding.
      Overnight stay at hotels/ lodges/ teahouses.

        Maximum altitude: 3440 meters, Namche Bazaar
        Trek duration: 6 hours
        Total distance: 10 km
        We will start early in the morning with a nice breakfast. We will then trek to the Namche Bazaar (3435m), a Sherpa capital from Jorasalle. The trail goes uphill up to Namche. After hiking for about four hours we will reach Namche. From Namche, you can see the first glance of Mt. Everest (the highest peak in the world).
        Overnight at a hotel in Namche. There are enough hotels, tea houses so you will have plenty of options for accommodation. NO worries, our representative from Himalayan Joy Adventures will take care of all your preparations and accommodation.

          Maximum altitude: 3962 meters, Everest View Hotel
          Hike duration: 3-4 hours
          Environmental conditions like altitude, climate, etc in the Himalayas are different. So, this day is about adjusting to the changes in the environmental conditions.
          You may explore the Namche Bazar. Enjoy the beautiful vistas while the colorful holy flags dance in the wind. On your acclimatization, you will hike to the Everest View Hotel and enjoy a succulent lunch with warm hospitality.

            Maximum altitude: 4110 meters, Dolle
            Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
            Trek Distance: 10 km
            We will leave Namche Bazaar after a day of acclimatization.
            Following the nice flat trail high up above the Dudh Kosi, we will walk into the village of Dole. (4040m) Dole is a cluster of trekking lodges. Here you will walk past the locals enjoying their typical Sherpa lifestyles.
            Overnight stay at a teahouse in Dole after a sweaty hike is relaxing.

              Maximum altitude: Machhermo, 4470 meters
              Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
              Total distance: 6.5 km
              After a good night of sleep at Dole, we will start up early in the morning to Maccermo. Machhermo is a small village that lies in the Dudh Kosi River valley north of Dole.
              The Dole to Machhermo trek route is straightforward. It is usually a half day of walking.
              In the evening at Machhermo, you can wander around to enjoy the soothing mountain vistas.

                Maximum altitude: 4790 meters, Gokyo Valley
                Trek duration: 5 hours
                Total distance: 7 km
                Starting after a breakfast at Machhermo, we will continue our journey up to Gokyo. On walking, you will gain 320 meters in altitude. A strenuous walk along a little steep path will take you to a magical place, Gokyo.
                Overnight at a lodge.

                  Maximum altitude: 5357 meters, Gokyo Ri
                  Trek duration: 6 hours
                  Total distance: 8 km
                  On this day, you will go in early morning hike to Gokyo Ri to enjoy the phenomenal view of the sunrise from beyond Mount Everest. What a glamorous sight to behold!!
                  Besides exploring the Gokyo valley and lakes, we trek to Phortse Thanga. It is a small village situated on the bank of Dudh Koshi river. Forests and mountains surround most of the trails. The beautiful Rhododendron forest along the way is enchanting.
                  We will stay overnight at a hotel.

                    Least altitude: 3440 meters, Namche Bazaar
                    Trek duration: 5 hours
                    Total distance: 6 km
                    Walking across the Sherpa villages, we head towards Namche Bazar. The trail from Phortse village to Namche Bazaar is not a tough one. And, after 9 days trek, you will definitely feel tired, so you may feel difficulty while descending. But walk slowly, enjoy the route..you will enjoy the descent.
                    Overnight stay at a hotel.

                      Least altitude: 2840 meters, Lukla
                      Trek duration: 6 hours
                      Total distance:13.5 km
                      From Namche, we ascend down the trail to Lukla. We walk through the Rhododendron and Pine forests to reach Jorasalle. And continue the mountainside pathways until we reach our destination of the day- Lukla. We walk along Phakding, Ghats Khola, Chaurikharka, Chheplung and arrive in Lukla.
                      Overnight at a Guesthouse.

                        Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is joyful.
                        After a long journey in the Khumbu region, you will have a day to rest in your Hotel. In the evening, our team of Himalayan Joy Adventure will host you a farewell dinner at a Nepalese restaurant.

                          It’s time to fly back to your own land with beautiful memories of the Gokyo Valley Trek. You will depart from the Tribhuvan International airport.

                            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) 
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