Gokyo Valley Trekking 14 Days

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Gokyo Valley Trekking

Gokyo Valley Trekking

Gokyo Valley Trek is a fascinating trekking route of Khumbu region offering you the stunning mountain views of worlds highest peak i.e. Mt Everest, largest glacier in the Nepal Himalayas i.e. Ngozumpa Glacier and Gokyo Lake. The scenic natural beauty of Gokyo region is beyond your imagination as the view of this region is associated with soaring views of the most popular mountains in Nepal, at an elevation of above 8,000 meters such as Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu which are clearly visible from Gokyo Ri above Gokyo Lake. The Gokyo Lake Trek and Gokyo Ri Trek is an alternative to classical treks in the Everest region.The trail to Gokyo is a gradual ascent up the valley passing through patches of birch and Rhododendron forests where the elusive musk deer can sometimes be seen. One of the most remarkable features of the Gokyo Valley Trek is the view of tremendous ice ridge between Cho Oyu and Gyachung located in Khumbu region.

Trekking to Gokyo Valley embarks from Lukla after a short and picturesque flight from Kathmandu. The trail enters the main Everest Base Camp trail and passes numerous sherpa settlements to reach Namche Bazzar where we rest for a day to acclimatize which helps you to be familiar with mountain conditions. The trek steeply descends passing through Phortse Tenga , from where the trail climbs steeply to Dole, through Rhododendron forests festooned with hanging mosses and Lichens. From Dole we ascend steadily along the side of the valley in the direction of Machhermo, where small and thorny bushes give way to scrub juniper as the altitude increases. We follow a very scenic path to Pangka from where we descend gradually following a river from where we again climb uphill to a rocky incline and into the valley walking aside the glacier to reach Gokyo. From Gokyo we hike upto the Gokyo Ri - the last point of our trek from where we witnees the remarkable panoramic view of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam and many other peaks. The journey descends down to Phortse as the path changes from Pangka and crosses the beautiful villages of Chhum, Thore, Gyenhyo and Konar. From Phortse we descend down to Namche Bazzar and hike to Lukla from where we fly back to Kathmandu.

Note: Lukla flight

In October, November, March, April, and May, the Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu Airport because of heavy air traffic.

You will leave your hotel around 1:00 AM and drive 4 to 5 hours to reach Ramechhap Airport to catch a morning flight to Lukla.

Likewise, in December, January, February, June, July, August, and September, the Lukla flights are operated from Kathmandu Airport.

Trip Details

  • Itinerary
  • Detail Itinerary
  • Cost details
  • FAQs
  • Equipment
  • Useful Info

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu [1,338m] Transfer to the Hotel.
Day 02: Mountain Flight to Lukla [2,810 m], Trek to Phakdaing [2,640 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (40 m fly and 03-04 Hrs).
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar [3,440 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (06-07 Hrs).
Day 04: Rest day at Namche [3,440 m] side trip to Everest view point. "B,L,D". Trek (04-05 Hrs).
Day 05: Trek to Dole [3,620 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (07-08 Hrs).
Day 06: Trek to Macchermo 4,440 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (04-05 Hrs).
Day 07: Trek to Gokyo [4,750 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (04-05 Hrs).
Day 08: Trek to Ascent of Gokyo- Ri [5,357 m] and back To Gokyo [4,750 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (04-05 Hrs).
Day 09: Trek to Phortse [3,860 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (06-07 Hrs).
Day 10: Trek to Namche [3,440 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (05-06 Hrs).
Day 11: Trek to Lukla [2,810 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (06-07 Hrs).
Day 12: Fly Back to Kathmandu [1,330 m]- (B):
Day 13: In Kathmandu [1,338m] Free rest day. "B".
Day 14: Trip ends! Fly back home, taking with you the memory of a life time. "B".


Note: If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Detail itinerary

Day 01: Arrival to Kathmandu [1,330 m]: Adventure Treks Nepal representative will be waiting outside the Tribhuwan International Airport to pick you according to your flight time and will transfer you to the Hotel. A short briefing session will be conducted about the trek and if there are any queries regarding things you want to do in Kathmandu please do let us know.

Day 02: Flight to Lukla [2,652m] Trek to Phakding - (B/L/D): Early in the morning you will be transferred to the domestic airport from where you fly to Lukla, a 45 min thrilling mountain flight. Once you land in Lukla, you will meet the supporting crew members who will be carrying your duffle bags throughout the trip. We will descend in the direction of Dudh Koshi River, a irate river that comes from the glacier of highest mountains. We walk around the fields of potatoes and wheat on a smooth path that reaches to Phaking where we will be spending the night. Average trekking time is 03 to 04 hours.

Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar [3,440m] - (B/L/D): On this day we will treak to Namchhe Bazzar through the Rhododendron and pine forests. After crossing the Dudh Koshi river twice this day we will finally enter the Sagarmatha National Park. While walking on the path to Namche Bazzar, amazing mountain peaks like Nupla (5,885m), Kongde Ri (6,093m) and Thamserku (6,808m) rise majestically above us throughout the clear day. Many yaks can be seen transporting goods during our trek on this day. Average trekking time is 6 to 7 hours.

Day 04: Acclimatization day, day hike to Shyangboche [3,833m] - (B/L/D): This is a free day in Namchhe Bazzar for acclimatization. It is really important to stay a extra day in Namchhe due to the decreasing air pressure. During afternoon you can take hike upto Everest View Hotel in Shyangboche from where you can witness beautiful view of Ama Dablam and Mount Everest. Average trekking time is 2 hours.

Day 05: Trek to Dole [4,090 m] - (B/L/D): Once your body is familiar with the thinning air we continue ahead with our trek. We climb upwards the hill to Khumjung followed by a descend to the east of the sherpa settlement below the board valley heading to the Dudh Koshi River. The trail then seperates from the Everest Base Camp trail and heads towards Phortse Tenga where we will have our lunch. On our way we will walk pass a large chorten on the ridge top at 3,973m. From Phortse Tenga we will proceed towards Dole climbing steeply out of the valley. The route passing through a herders’ hut at Tongba climbs gently to Dole (4090m). Overnight stay at Dole. Average trekking time is 6-7 hours.
Day 06: Trek to Macchermo [4,410 m] - (B/L/D): After your breakfast, we begin our trek with a steep climb up to Lhabarma (4,330m) through Gyele. The trail then moves along the banks of a large stream at Luza (4,340m) and up to Machhermo while you walk high above the river and along the side of the valley.  Average trekking time is 3-4 hours.

Day 07: Trek to Gokyo [4,750 m] - (B/L/D): After a good sleep in Macchermo we begin our trek. We reach Pangka, from where we descend slightly to a large cave area, Nilibuk. We again then ascend on a steep rocky path that heading inside the valley along the side of the glacier. The trek continues ahead passing 3 holy lakes and across the glacier to Cho - La. The major and third lake is known as Dudh Pokhari and are located on eastern shore in the settlement of Gokyo. The reflection of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang in Dudh Koshi's emerald green water is just stunning. Overnight stay at Gokyo. Average trekking time is 5-6 hours.

Day 08: Trek to Gokyo - Ri and back to Gokyo [4,750 m] - (B/L/D): This is the higlight of the trek. On this day we will trek up to Gokyo Ri and then again return back to Gokyo. You will see splendid view of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse and Tawachhe from above the Gokyo Ri. Overnight stay in Gokyo. Average trekking time is 6-7 hours.

Day 09: Trek to Phortse [3,860 m] - (B/L/D): After your breakfast we leave Gokyo and begin our long descend to Phortse. We walk on a same path till Pangka from where we turn east and trek through villages at Thore, Thare, Konar and Gyengyoand climb across the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier to Na. The trail then is smooth to Phortse. Average trekking time is 8-9 hours.

Day 10: Trek to Namche [3,440 m] - (B/L/D): In the beginning of the trek on this day we will descend to Phunki Thanga from where we climp upwards the ridge towards Namchhe Bazzar. After you reach Namchhe Bazzar the rest of the day is free where you can walk around the streets and buy suovenir from local shop vendors. We make an overnight stay at the local lodge at Namche. Average trekking time is 3-4 hours.

Day 11: Trek to Lukla [2,652m] - (B/L/D): We recollect our footsteps back to Lukla along the Dudh Koshi River. The path is the same path we used previously, a easy walk through pine and rhododendron forest while Kusum Kanguru and other mountains rise majestically in the background. We finally reach Lukla once we trek out of the river valley.Overnight stay in Lukla. Average trekking time is 6-7 hours.

Day 12: Fly Back to Kathmandu [1,330 m]- (B): Saying final goodbye to our supporting crew members we get on a flight to Kathmandu Valley. Once you arrive in Kathmandu you will be dropped to the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 13: Free day in Kathmandu [1,330 m] - (B): This is a free day in Kathmandu. There are many UNESCO listed world heritage sites in Kathmandu to visit which are the major attractions like Ancient Palaces of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, famous Buddhist stupas i.e. Bouddhanath and Swyambhunath and the Pahupatinath Temple. You can also spend your day shopping in shops around Thamel. We are always there to assist you if you make up mind to visit anywhere around Kathmandu.

Day 14: Fly back home (B): According to your flight time you will be dropped to the Tribhuvan International Airport by a representative from Adventure Treks Nepal. "Namaste".


Note:If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Trip Cost Includes:

  • All Local Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
  • Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking.
  • Domestic Flight with Airport Tax.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter to each trekkers)
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking Guide and Porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • Everest Gokyo Valley Trekking Region map.
  • Sagarmatha (Everest) National park permits fee.
  • Khumbu pasang lhamu rural municipality entry permit fee.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • All Government taxes Income tax plus VAT 13%.
  • Office services charge.
  • Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Water purification tablets.

Trip Cost Excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance of any kind
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 30 for 15 days) you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower, Wifi etc during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.

 

Note: Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government. In other words these nationals won't get on arrival visa until and unless they have official letter issued from Ministry of Home Affiars Nepal.

Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, Syria, Refugees with travel document.

Weather information

We offer trekking in Nepal from mid-September to May. However within this period there are clear seasons in the weather. From early September the monsoon rains decrease. By mid-October through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 deg C at low altitude in October and nights can drop to below 0 deg C at higher altitudes.

Winter trekking, from December to February, offers cool to mild and clear days with often very cold nights. Daytime temperatures at low altitudes will be mild, around 20 deg C and at night may drop to 0 or as low as -10 deg C at the higher points. Occasionally winter storms can bring snow as low as 2500m.

In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up occasionally bringing afternoon rainstorms. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March, with temperatures of up to 30 deg C and mild nights at low altitudes. The increase in rainfall in the hills is more than compensated for by the spectacular displays of rhododendrons and other wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions, as in April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common. This is a period that generally has clear weather at the higher altitudes and is traditionally a time when mountaineering expeditions commence their ascents.

The monsoon creates a rainy season in Nepal, which lasts from mid-June to mid-September. During this time the Nepal Himalaya is unsuitable for trekking, with the exception of a few remote valleys. We offer treks during this period in Low altitude Treks in the Nepal Himalaya, Tibet & India (Kulu, Ladakh).

The post-monsoon period: From early September the monsoon rain starts to decrease. By mid-October through to mid-December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and decrease as you gain height. Over 3000 meters the daytime temperatures can vary as much as 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, and may be hotter or colder, depending on whether it is sunny or windy etc. At night at lower altitudes, temperatures do not normally drop much, although as you approach November it does get colder and the days shorter. Up high it can drop sharply at night, from 0 to minus 10 or 15 and more when camped on the ice or snow.

The pre-monsoon period: In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up bringing occasional afternoon rainstorms. Views of the mountains in the middle of the day and afternoon may often be obscured. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March with temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius and mild nights. At higher altitudes it is similar to the conditions of the post-monsoon period, however there is usually more snow, which has accumulated over the winter period. There are spectacular displays of rhododendrons and wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions ie April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common.

List of Clothing Equipments & Personal Effects

  • Lightweight Trekking (walking) (Waterproof) boots and spare laces. If new one is being bought, “walk then in” to avoid blisters. Also bring spare laces.
  • A pair of track shoes for evening and walk around campsite.
  • Warm Jackets (Fiber fill or down) down should be adequate.
  • A rainproof jacket with hood or ponchos (Get guaranteed Waterproof)
  • Woolen shirts and thick sweaters.
  • A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks.
  • Thermal underwear.
  • A tracksuit.
  • 2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
  • Few pairs of cotton T-shirts.
  • At least 1 lightweight long sleeved shirt is particularly to avoid sun born.
  • A woolen hat for morning and evening and Sun cap (Hat) during the day and ensure it has a wide brim to cover the face and neck..
  • A pair of gloves.
  • A pair of sandals to shower and campsite.
  • Few pair of thin and thick woolen socks.
  • Underwear: normal quantity and swimming costume.
  • Sleeping bags for night. (At least -20 Celsius)

Equipment and Accessories

  • Duffle bag or kit bag to carry gears while trekking. (We provide)
  • Daypack to carry personal day requirements. (25-30 Ltr) This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day
  • Water bottle.
  • Snow glasses and sunglasses.
  • 2-5 large plastic bags to separate clean and dirty clothes. Some small plastic bags for garbage.
  • Toiletries with large and small towels. Toilet paper can be by in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
  • Wallet or money belt with compartment for coins.
  • Headlamp or torch light with spare batteries and bulbs.Candles or lighter to burn toilet paper and to lit on.
  • Snow gaiters essential during winter and High Altitude trekking.
  • Walking poles. (If you like to have).
  • Camera with spare batteries and films
  • Reading materials, game items (optional), note book, rubber band, pen and pencil, envelopes, a diary, a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), a small pillow or headrest (optional). Thermoses (optional)- an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of
  • passport photograph
  • First aid kit with enough Personal medicine.

Physically prepare yourself: It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of trekking. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself: Mental preparation is often overlooked. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the trekachievable.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.

Gokyo Valley trek permits

For the Gokyo Valley trek, foreign travelers have to obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit & the Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit. Our Gokyo Valley trek cost is inclusive of these permit fees, which are USD 20 and USD 30, respectively, per person.

The Gokyo Valley trek difficulty

The Gokyo Valley trek difficulty is higher than the EBC trek. It is a tough trek because the terrain is steep and rugged. You will walk 5 to 6 hours a day on average. Therefore, decent fitness and good health are required. You will face high altitude and limited facilities, which makes the journey difficult.

Prevent altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is common while trekking in the Himalayas. The Gokyo Valley trek takes you above 5,000 meters. Every day (until you reach Gokyo Ri), the elevation increases. So, you have to acclimatize as you trek.

Our Gokyo Valley trek itinerary has two rest days, which reduces the chances of altitude sickness. Further, you should drink plenty of water and maintain your pace to avoid altitude sickness. Inform your guide if you feel any discomfort or see symptoms like headache, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, dizziness, etc.

Different Gokyo Valley trekking seasons

Spring and autumn are the top seasons for the Gokyo Valley trekking. It includes months from March to May and September to November. These seasons offer stable weather, mild climate, lush vegetation, and a clear sky for stunning mountain views. The trails are in good condition, and long daylight hours allow you to fully enjoy the trek.

Ensure your safety with travel insurance: helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory

Travel insurance is important if you want to do the Gokyo Valley trekking in Nepal. This trek happens in a remote area with no transportation service. In the event of any emergency that requires you to immediately return to Kathmandu, helicopter evacuation is the only option.

Without travel insurance, helicopter rescue will cost you a lot of money. So, please get travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation for the Gokyo Valley trek. You can also include medical bills and other coverages in your travel insurance.

Lodge accommodation and fantastic food options along the Gokyo Valley trail

While trekking to the Gokyo Valley, you will spend nights in mountain lodges and have meals as per their menu. This package includes basic lodges with twin-shared rooms. Single rooms are available at an additional cost. The rooms are small and clean. Washrooms can be shared, too.

A sleeping bag is recommended for this trek. Western-style toilets are available in many places, but you may have to use squat toilets as well. Pack all the toiletries for the journey, including toilet paper. You get breakfast in Kathmandu and breakfast, lunch & dinner during trekking.

Dal bhat, thukpa, momo, stew, porridge, and pancakes are common items on the menu. Curry, pasta, pizza, burgers, noodles, chapati, etc, are also found in many places. Additionally, you can buy extra snacks, beverages, and boiled drinking water on your own.

*Note: We highly recommend budging USD 15 to USD 25 each day for additional expenses during trekking.

Travel visa to enter Nepal for the trek

Foreigners can obtain a travel visa upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport or arriving at any land border. It is called an on-arrival visa. You can fill out the form online and bring the needed documents and visa fee. It is a quick process.

However, travelers from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, Syria, and refugees with travel documents have to obtain a travel visa from the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office in their country.

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AT A GLANCE

  • Trip Duration: 14 Days
  • Difficulty Grade: Strenuous
  • Max Altitude: 5,357m
  • Meals: B, L, D on Trek
  • Accommodation: Tea House.
  • Best Season: Sept-May
  • Views: Everest, Amadablam, Kusum Kagaroo, Kwande, Nuptse, Lhotse

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