Gokyo Valley Trek

The Gokyo Valley Trek offers an extraordinary adventure off the beaten path, featuring glacial moraine trails, scenic valleys, and the challenging ascent of Cho La Pass. The trek culminates with a rewarding view from Gokyo Ri. This journey takes you through the Khumbu region, passing remote Sherpa settlements and providing breathtaking views of Everest and surrounding peaks. At Gokyo, you can explore the Gokyo Lakes and enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and Everest.

Experience the diverse culture, climate, and stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas. The trek, while demanding, is manageable for those who can handle long hours of walking each day and are in good health. Adequate acclimatization, hydration, and a healthy pace are key to a successful trek.

Short Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,320m)
2. Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing (Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Kathmandu Durbar Square)
3. Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,800m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m)
4. Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
5. Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
6. Day 6: Trek to Dole (4,200m)
7. Day 7: Trek to Machhermo (4,470m)
8. Day 8: Trek to Gokyo Lakes (4,790m)
9. Day 9: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and return to Gokyo
10. Day 10: Trek to Dole
11. Day 11: Trek to Namche Bazaar
12. Day 12: Trek to Lukla
13. Day 13: Fly back to Kathmandu
14. Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

Trekking Equipment

Essentials:

• Sturdy hiking boots and flip-flops
• Sleeping bag (suitable for -20°C for colder regions)
• Daypack, trekking backpack, dry sack, and camera bag
• Clothes for varying temperatures
• Cold weather gear: hiking pants, thermals, gloves, neck warmer/scarf, beanie, warm inner jacket, windproof/waterproof outer jacket, and down jacket
• Water purification supplies, reusable water bottle, and camelback water bladder
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, moisturizing skin cream, and lip balm
• Snacks and granola bars
• Hiking sticks
• Waterproof case, moleskin, headlamp, altitude sickness medication, and other essentials
• Camera and binoculars
• Hand sanitizers, toilet paper, band-aids, wet wipes
• Extra batteries (solar chargers recommended)

On popular routes, you can buy supplies like toilet paper, soap, and snacks along the way, though prices increase with altitude. Stock up lower down and purchase locally-produced items. For more challenging treks, crampons and ice axes may be required. Basic crampons are available in Thamel.

Trip Facts

• Duration: 14 days
• Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge/Guest House
• Seasons: Spring and Autumn
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Maximum Height: 5,360 m
• Transport: Flight
• Group Size: Min. 2
• Starts From: Kathmandu
• Ends At: Lukla

Trip Highlights

• Explore Namche Bazaar, a prominent Sherpa settlement
• Trek through the Dudh Koshi Valley in Sagarmatha National Park
• Observe the Ngozumpa Glacier
• Enjoy stunning views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu from Gokyo Ri
• See the ice range between Cho Oyu and Gyachung
• Visit the charming Gokyo village and its lakes