The Gokyo Lake Trek is located in the Solukhumbu District of Koshi Province. It stands in the Khumbu Region within Sagarmatha National Park. The trek leads to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, and the longest Ngozumpa Glacier situated at high altitude near Mount Everest, offering stunning Himalayan views and the Gokyo Ri
The 13-day Gokyo Valley trail runs through Sagarmatha National Park in the Khumbu region. It is also famous as a pristine glacial valley. The Trek starts from Kathmandu's domestic airport and lands at Lukla Airport. The Trek to Gokyo-Ri is classified as strenuous hiking in the Khumbu region, passing through Namche Bazaar and alpine meadows.
You can join as part of a group or as a solo female. You can share a Sherpa guide, permits, cost, price, and Itinerary at any time. Let us know if you need more information about trekking in Gokyo.
After landing at the Lukla airstrip, the Gokyo Valley trekkers headed through the magnificent landscape of Phakding and Namche Bazaar.
The fascinating forest of the world's highest national park continues to grow. After it heads to the Dole and Machhermo via the Everest viewpoint and Khumjung village, the route becomes increasingly compelling due to its enticing geography. It allows you to explore the Gokyo Peak region of the Himalayas.
Gokyo –RI is right above Gokyo Lake. It is the best viewpoint for trekking (5360M). The appeal lies in the attractions of trekking in the Gokyo Valley: alpine meadows grazed by yaks, Himalayan scenery, Sherpa communities, and Buddhist cultural heritage.
However, trekking in Gokyo Valley offers an alternative: the Everest Base Camp Trek. From Gokyo Ri, the 180-degree views of Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Gokyo Peak, along with the Ngozumpa Glacier, showcase Nepal's youthful beauty and inspiring trekking peaks.
The Gokyo Valley, located in the Khumbu region, experiences four seasons yearly. Trekking in each season has some pros and cons. However, with Boundless Adventure, you will complete your Trek with safety and enjoyment. Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter are the four seasons experienced across Nepal, including Gokyo Valley.
The Spring season consists of three months: March, April, and May. It is the pre-monsoon season in Nepal. During this season, Nepal's national flower, the Rhododendron, blooms across the country, including in the Gokyo Valley. The vibrant landscape of wildflowers, including rhododendrons, provides pleasant trekking conditions in Gokyo Valley.
The weather is moderate in Spring, with warm days and crisp nights. The mountains are also clear this season, making your Gokyo Valley trek worth it. The temperature ranges from 15 degrees Celsius to -5 degrees Celsius. Moreover, trekking in the Gokyo Valley in spring is an opportunity to experience the beauty and variety of nature.
The summer season in Nepal runs from June to August. Although it is considered the hottest time of year in Nepal, it also brings heavy rainfall. Frequent rainfall makes the trekking trail muddy, and the risk of landslides is high. Leeches are almost everywhere, making trekking conditions less favorable during the Summer. Additionally, heavy rainfall and clouds obscure the mountain peaks during the Summer, creating unfavorable conditions for trekking in Gokyo Valley.
Even though Summer is not a perfect season for the Gokyo Valley trek, some excellent points about trekking at Gokyo in Summer can't be unseen. The recurring rain clears all the dust from the flora and makes the surrounding green, creating beautiful trekking conditions. Although rain occurs frequently, temperatures are generally hot, making trekking suitable during the Summer. As Summer is the least desired trekking season for the Gokyo Valley trek, fewer visitors allow you to immerse yourself fully in nature.
Summer is becoming trekkers' favorite season, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The reduced chance of rainfall above 5000m due to global warming has also brought trekkers from around the world to the Gokyo Valley during the Summer. Boundless Adventure offers a Gokyo Valley trekking package for the Summer, with your safety in mind.
The autumn season in Nepal begins after the monsoon/summer season ends, which is why it is also known as the post-monsoon season. After Spring, Autumn is the most desired trekking season among trekkers worldwide. From September to November, Gokyo Valley is at its most beautiful during autumn. After the monsoon season, the landscape becomes greener, making the environment more colorful.
Trekking in the Gokyo Valley during the Autumn season offers a clear blue sky. The crystal-clear view of the unobstructed mountain peaks is also a highlight of trekking in Gokyo Valley in Autumn. With temperatures ranging from 15°C to -5°C, autumn is the perfect time to fully appreciate the natural beauty, stable weather, and awe-inspiring mountain views.
Nepal's winter season is December to February, and temperatures in the Everest region are freezing. Therefore, it is not recommended to trek in Gokyo Valley during this time. The paths are fully covered with snow, making the Trek challenging. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C.
However, if you want to experience snowfall and still want to trek in the Gokyo Valley during winter, you need to be very careful. Proper gear and equipment are necessary, and choosing a trekking agency that ensures your safety can enhance your overall experience.
In the Everest region of Sagarmatha National Park, the Gokyo Lakes are a series of high-altitude mountain lakes. They are the most stunning and pristine natural attractions of Solukhumbu District, providing scenic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest.
There are six lakes in the Gokyo Valley, ranging from 4,700 m to 5,000 m above sea level. Longponga (4710m), Taujung Lake/Cho (4740m), Dudh Pokhara/ Gokyo Cho (4750m), Thonak Tsho/lake (4870m), Ngojumba Lake/Cho (4990m), and Gyazumpa Lake/Cho (5000m) are the five glacial lakes of Gokyo.
Longponga is the first lake you'll encounter among the six lakes of Gokyo. Longponga is en route to Gokyo Valley. As you ascend from Machhermo village, you'll reach the town of Phangga. Leaving Phangga village, you'll get to the first lake of Gokyo, Longponga, which lies at an elevation of 4710m/15452ft.
Right after passing through Longponga Lake, you'll encounter a second lake, Taujung Lake/Cho, at an elevation of 4740m/ 15551 ft. The area covered by the Tanjung lake is 16.95 hectares (41.9 acres).
Among the five lakes of Gokyo, Dudh Pokhari, also known as Gokyo Lake, is the best known. It is situated at 4750 m/15583 ft in front of the lodges and Gokyo Ri. The Dudh Pokhcoversered 4hectarestare (106 acrof es) area.
Thonak Lake is the largest in Gokyo, covering 65.07 hectares (160.8 acres). After a 45-minute hike from Gokyo Lake, you'll come across the fourth lake of the Gokyo Valley. Thonak Lake is located at an elevation of 4,870 m (15,978 ft).
Ngojumba is the fifth lake of Gokyo, situated at 4990m/ 16371ft. The lakes come to see after you hike from exploring Thonak Tsho/ lake. It takes about 1 hour to reach Ngojumba Lake from Gokyo and 15 minutes from Thonak Lake. Ngojumba Lake covers 14.39 hectares (35.6 acres).
At an elevation of 5000m/16404 ft, Gyazumpa Lake is near Ngojumba Cho. It covers 29 hectares (72 acres). As with Ngojumba, it takes about 1 hour to reach Gyazumpa Lake from Gokyo Lake.
In addition to the Gokyo lakes, the longest glacier is the Ngozumpa Glacier. The Gokyo Ri is a popular and classic viewpoint in Gokyo. From Gokyo, trekkers can go for a hike to Cho Oyu Base Camp.
The cost of trekking in Gokyo Valley depends on several factors. The trekking agency is the primary factor influencing the cost of the Trek. It is advisable to choose trekking agencies that offer the best facilities at a reasonable price. Boundless Adventure offers a group discount; we also recommend contacting them to secure a trekking package at a reasonable cost.
Another factor affecting trekking costs in the Gokyo Valley is the season you choose. Trekking in peak season (Autumn and Spring) costs more than in the low season. Although trekking in Summer and winter is unfavorable, it can minimize costs. Due to high demand during peak season, accommodation facilities and other services may also charge higher rates.
The additional services you want also affect the cost of the Gokyo Valley trek. Generally, trekking agencies provide all required facilities during the Trek. However, if you need luxury service, you will incur an additional fee, which will increase your cost.
Throughout the 13-day Gokyo Valley and Lake trek, every lodge/tea house has heating in the dining facility. The Sherpa people provide warm hospitality to guests, and heating in the dining area is part of that hospitality, making trekkers comfortable while they eat. Even in the Gokyo Valley, you'll find heating facilities in the dining hall. Every lodge provides wooden, heated dining at the small pan/drum where wood is burnt.
The heaters, with firewood loaded at the bottom, are placed in the middle of the dining room to ensure every guest is warm. The heaters are designed to prevent smoke from the firewood from entering the dining area as it passes through the Chimney.
The temperature is low at Gokyo and along the way, and every trekker wants a heater in their room. However, this is not possible. Wood-burning stoves are permitted only in dining areas and shared spaces.
Although heated rooms are common in areas with significant temperature drops, trekkers should know that a warm room doesn't make trekking any more unique. What makes your journey unique is the beautiful views along the Gokyo Valley trek, the authentic teahouses you stayed at, and the experiences you gained in the heart of nature.
We have provided a 13-day itinerary for the Gokyo Valley trek, with Pickup and drop-off at the international airport. However, you may shorten your Itinerary. Could you please advise us? Similarly, we are providing a 13-day Gokyo Valley trek itinerary below. If you have flexible availability in terms of time and days, please let us know.
We do not operate a Hotel in Kathmandu, but standard guesthouses are included during the Trek. Please review the cost and Itinerary below.
For your family, friends, or a short trip, contact us via WhatsApp at +977 9851033819 or submit an inquiry via the form. Similarly, group-joining services are available, but we need advance notice.
Similarly, the Gokyo Valley Trek starts in Kathmandu, continues to Lukla on Day Two, and then hikes to Gokyo Valley via Namche Bazaar, Machhermo, and Dole. You may hike to Gokyo Ri, the best viewpoint on the Trek. The Trek ends on Day Twelve when you arrive in Kathmandu. The Trek is 10 nights and 11 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. We are not counting Day 1st and the last day.
We have provided a 13-day itinerary for the Gokyo Valley trekking, starting and ending with Pickup and drop-off at the international airport. However, you may shorten your travel itinerary. Could you please advise us? Similarly, we provide the 13-day Gokyo Valley trekking itinerary below. If you have flexible time and days, please let us know.
We operate without a Hotel in Kathmandu, but standard guest houses are included during the trek. Please review the cost and itinerary below.
For your family, friends, or a short trip, contact us via WhatsApp at +977 9851033819 or submit the inquiry form. Similarly, group joining services are available, but we need advance notice.
Similarly, the Gokyo Valley Trekking begins in Kathmandu, continues to Lukla on day two, and then proceeds to Gokyo Valley via Namche Bazaar, Machhermo, and Dole. You may hike to Gokyo-Ri, the best viewpoint on the Trek. The Trek ends on Day Twelve when you arrive in Kathmandu. The Trek is 10 nights and 11 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. We are not counting Day 1st.
When you arrive at TIA, a representative of Boundless Adventure will greet you. After receiving the heartwarming welcome, we can proceed to the Hotel.
We will spend the night at the Hotel discussing the trek and preparing for it. The Hotel will offer us a delicious dinner.
Note: Local SIM cards and currency exchange services are available at the airport.
After breakfast, we will escort you to the airport, as we have to fly to Lukla for around 45 minutes. After boarding the flight at an altitude of 2800m, our gateway towards our destination resumes. We have to walk until we reach Phakding. We spent the night at the nearest lodges in that area.
We must continue through the pine forests by the Dudh Koshi River.
After several hours of walking, we can enter Sagarmatha National Park. Continuing our journey, we can reach Namche Bazaar.
Namche Bazaar offers beautiful views. We stayed the night there, at 3440 m above sea level.
After trekking for 4 to 5 hours over stony trails, it's best to spend the day in Namche Bazaar.
This place is also excellent. We can roam around it. The rest of the day will also help us adapt to high altitude, where oxygen levels are generally low.
This place is well served by government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and more. We can also visit the Sherpa community there.
We have to walk from Namche Bazaar early in the morning. After walking for a while, we come across a large image of the Buddha carved into the stone.
The trek continues to Khumjung and then descends to the Dudh Koshi River at Phortse Thanga at an altitude of 3500 meters, from where we can see the marvelous view of Thamserku (6608m).
The journey continues towards Macherma, at a height of 4410m. So, it will be a shorter trek to avoid altitude sickness that may come later in the trip.
The way goes through the middle of the forest, where you can see spectacular views of green forest and glittering white mountains. Overnight in the Guest House
After spending the night at Macherma, we should set off on the trek early the next day.
We can view an outstanding view down the valley to the Kengtang and up towards Cho Oyu. On the way, we can see a few lakes.
Continuing down the trail finally leads us towards Gokyo, situated at 4750m.
Early in the morning, we can make an excursion to Gokyo Peak. We had to climb for over an hour, our progress marked by the Sherpa community's traditional prayer flags.
From the top, we can enjoy a magnificent view of the highest peaks, such as Cho Oyu (8153m), Gyachung Kang (7922m), Everest(8848m), Lhotse(8,501m), and many more.
We can enjoy a splendid view of Gokyo Lake on the way back. Later in the day, we will trek down to Dole.
After having breakfast at Dole, we will head toward Khumjung. It is the largest Sherpa settlement, where we can encounter their traditions and customs.
Sir Edmund Hilary established a high school there. Many monasteries can be seen there. We stayed the night at Khumjung.
We should continue our journey downhill, following the main trails. The trail drops down to the Namche Bazaar.
We should waste a lot of time here and move on. On the way, we may take a lunch break.
After lunch at Jorsale, we have to head to Phakding.
The route to Phakding leads us toward Lukla, one of Nepal's best towns.
Returning to Lukla, we see a much more beautiful view of green and sparkling white mountains.
The day ends with a trek to Lukla. We can stay overnight at Lukla.
We will take off from Lukla Airport to Kathmandu. It will take about 45 minutes. During the flight, we can view panoramic views of different mountains from a bird 's-eye perspective. It will be a smooth landing in Kathmandu, so we can spend the day exploring the city's cultural heritage.
The final departure will be at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our magnificent journey ends here, and we wish for a safe journey ahead.
Tailor this itinerary to fit your specific needs and schedule perfectly.
Lodging options along the Gokyo Valley trek in the Everest region include tea houses/lodges operated by local Sherpas. The tea houses provide basic facilities, such as a twin bed. The higher your altitude, the more basic facilities you'll get in the tea houses. Some tea houses may have attached bathroom facilities, but it is best not to assume they do.
The tea houses not only provide lodging facilities but also delicious local meals. The food options range from Nepali to international dishes. Nepali dishes are recommended, as they are made with locally grown vegetables and do not use chemical fertilizers.
The cost of tea houses along the trail is reasonable. Still, it is not your concern, as Boundless Adventure provides you with lodging and food facilities throughout the trekking journey at the finest tea house/ lodge.
Gokyo Valley hiking is a popular trek in Nepal's Solu-Khumbu region. It offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks, as well as the opportunity to visit the Gokyo Lakes, a series of high-altitude freshwater lakes.
The trek usually takes 10 to 12 days from Kathmandu, starting from Lukla and passing through Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, and back. Along the way, trekkers will experience traditional Sherpa culture and hospitality and cross the challenging Cho La Pass. Going with a guide and proper gear is recommended, as the high altitude can cause health problems for some trekkers.
Gokyo Ri is a popular day-hiking destination near Mount Everest in Nepal's Solukhumbu region. The hike offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Amadablam, and Mt. Makalu, and is known for its turquoise-blue glacial lakes.
The typical route to Gokyo Ri starts in Lukla, then proceeds to Namche Bazaar, and takes about 3-4 days to complete, with overnight stops in several Sherpa villages along the way. It is a moderate-to-challenging hike that requires a good level of physical fitness, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
Gokyo Ri is a peak in Nepal's Khumbu region, near Mount Everest. Its height is approximately 5,357 meters (17,576 feet) above sea level. From the summit, one can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and other high peaks of the Himalayas.
The view from Gokyo Ri is one of the best in the region and a popular spot for trekkers and mountaineers visiting from Gokyo Lake.
We provide day-to-day elevation of the Gokyo Valley trek:
You must know the required permits to start your trek in Gokyo Valley. No worries if you are with Boundless Adventure; we will obtain all necessary permits on your behalf. However, having information on the required permits will help you understand the process. Here are the mandatory permits required for the Gokyo Valley trek:
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Gokyo Valley lies in the Everest region. Each trekking destination in the Everest region requires a Sagarmatha National Park permit, including the Gokyo Valley trek. Without a Sagarmatha National Park permit, trekkers cannot legally continue their journey in the Everest region. The permit's checkpoint is at Monjo.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Most trekking routes in Nepal, except restricted areas, require a TIMS card. For the safety of trekkers, all trekkers in Nepal must obtain the Trekkers' Information Management Systems (TIMS) Card before starting a trek. For the Gokyo Valley trek, a TIMS card is also mandatory.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: The permit was established to regulate and oversee trekking operations in rural communities within the Khumbu region. The permit aims to support the local economy and sustainable tourism development. A permit from the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality is essential for the Gokyo Valley trek.
Hiring a trek guide for Gokyo Valley is recommended. As the valley is remote and the trek is moderate in difficulty, an experienced guide can support you with any minor problems you may encounter during the trek. Boundless Adventure provides a highly experienced guide who will handle navigation and safety and manage all your logistics.
A trek guide should have experience in the region, be familiar with the terrain, and be able to provide navigation guidance on the trail. A trek guide should be certified and licensed through the Nepal Tourism Board. Hiring a guide with strong cross-language communication skills is crucial. A trekking guide should have first-aid and emergency training and be able to handle unforeseen circumstances during the trek. Furthermore, a guide who can provide seamless logistical support is necessary. So all these qualities are in the guide of the Boundless Adventure. If you are with a guide from Boundless Adventure during the trek to Gokyo Valley, know that almost all your problems are gone.
One of the easiest and fastest ways to book the Gokyo Valley trek is directly Online. Our website offers instant online booking; click the pre-book option. If you would like to learn more about the trip to Gokyo Valley, please contact our travel experience designer, Mr. Dambar Bahadur Khadka, via WhatsApp at +977 9851033819.
Remember to make a 20% advance payment at the time of pre-booking. You can pay the remaining balance upon departure from the trip. Furthermore, pre-booking should be completed a month in advance so we can manage all logistics for your Gokyo Valley trek. One of the foremost reasons to book a month in advance is Lukla Airport. As your trek begins with the flight to Lukla, the airport is the busiest, so we need to book plane tickets in advance.
Gokyo Valley is located in the Sagarmatha Zone, Solukhumbu District, Nepal. At an elevation of 4,750 m, it is one of the highest settlements in the world. In the Khumbu region of the Himalayas, the valley is famous for its stunning glacial lake and mesmerizing view of snow-capped peaks.
The trek to Gokyo Valley takes 10-12 days, depending on the itinerary plan. The expedition begins with a flight from Kathmandu's domestic airport to Lukla airport. From Lukla, the trekking route passes through Sherpa settlements to Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Phortse Thanga, and Macherma before reaching Gokyo Valley.
The cost of the Gokyo Valley ranges from US$1,200 to US$1,468, depending on group size. However, whether you hire a guide or not, any special requests, itinerary customization, and personal expenses will affect the cost of the Gokyo Valley trek.
Gokyo Valley trekking is moderately difficult. However, it is suitable for first-time trekkers as well. The higher elevation, varied terrain from steep ascent to descent and rocky paths, the longer duration, and unpredictable weather conditions make the trek quite adventurous. Yet, with proper preparation and precaution, one can complete the trek smoothly.
At 5360m above sea level, Gokyo Ri is the highest elevation on the Gokyo Valley trekking route. The point offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. However, altitude-related issues can cause some trouble while hiking to Gokyo Ri. Thus, we suggest acclimatizing appropriately and staying hydrated throughout the journey.
Mount Everest is not visible from the Gokyo Valley, yet it is apparent from the Gokyo Ri, which lies above the Gokyo Valley. However, from Gokyo Valley, trekkers can enjoy views of the Gokyo Lakes and Mount Cho Oyu.
Choosing a time for the Gokyo Valley trek is subjective. However, before going on a trek, it is essential to know the weather and the challenges trekkers face in that specific month. However, Spring and Autumn are ideal for the Gokyo Valley trek due to pleasant weather and fewer challenges. Conversely, monsoons and winters are unsuitable due to the greater challenges.
The view from Gokyo Ri is surreal and will amaze any trekker. It offers a view of some of the world's highest mountain peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Cho Oyu range. Likewise, the lakes of Gokyo, including Dudh Pokhari, Renjo La Pass, and Gokyo Valley, are eye-appealing from the top of Gokyo Ri. Moreover, a panoramic view of the largest Himalayan glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier, will be enhanced from Gokyo Ri.
Throughout the trek to Gokyo Valley, trekkers stay in local tea houses. Teahouses are common resting points in the Khumbu region and are simple, run by local families. The accommodation point provides basic amenities with twin-sharing simple beds. Also, the tea house offers hygienic meals.
Yes, the Gokyo Valley trek requires some mandatory permits. The Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card are needed when planning a trek to Gokyo. Boundless Adventure provides both licenses, with no worries for our clients.
Booking the Gokyo Valley trek involves several steps and careful precautions. However, Boundless Adventure made it easy by providing an online booking facility. Now, travelers can easily pre-book their trek from anywhere in the world.
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