Gokyo
To the gems of Khumbu Valley
Trek Details
The trek to Gokyo is one of the most interesting trekking routes in the Everest region. Known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, turquoise lakes, and a challenging rewarding climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), the trek offers an alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp trek. From Gokyo Ri, enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views Mount Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m), four of the world's tallest peaks. The sunrise from Gokyo Ri, casting golden light on the mountains, is a trek highlight. Discover the Khumbu Valley, the biodiversity of Sagarmatha National Park and Sherpa people and their culture.
Possible option: for those seeking extra adventure, the Gokyo trek can be combined with crossing the Cho La Pass (5,420 m) to connect with the Everest Base Camp trail, creating a circuit route that offers even more diversity in landscapes and experiences.
Duration from Kathmandu to Kathmandu : 12 days
Trek level : moderate 2/4
You may hike an estimated 6 hours and you should be able to climb 800 m (2,600 ft) a day. You may be able to cope with consecutive days’ walking. You are in good health and we recommend that you maintain your fitness before departure by participating regularly in physical activities and walking.
Altitude : 2,535 m - 5,335 m
Distance : 98 km
Accommodation : guesthouses
Positive and negative elevation : 6,167 m
Travel tips : Everything you need to know before trekking with us HERE
Cost : From 1,430 EUR per person (rate based on 4 people minimum).
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Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
Transportation until the trekking departure point
Trekking permit and TIMS fee
Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if needed
English or French speaking trekking guide as well as his necessary insurance, accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Supporting staff (porters), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - 3 meals per day, tea-coffee, seasonal fruits, and overnight in double rooms in local lodge along the trek
First aid kit box
You can hire our services for your stay in Kathmandu (accommodation, cultural guide and excursions).
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International flight ticket and airport tax
Lunch and dinner during the Kathmandu and other cities’ stay
Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Tips for guide and porter
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral water) during the trek
Additional costs due to extra days stay, in case of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances
Personal trekking gear for the trip
Itinerary
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Early transfer to Kathmandu airport or a very early departure to Manthali airport for a short but scenic flight to Lukla that offers a magnificent panorama of the Himalayas. From Lukla airport (2,850 m), trekking to Phakding (2,600 m). Approx. 4 hours hike, ascending 250 m and descending 470 m.
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A gentle climb to Namche Bazaar (3,44O m), through magnificent rhododendron and magnolia forests, and across the famous Hillary Bridge, one of the tallest suspension bridges in Nepal. Approx. 5 hours hike, ascending 1,250 m and descending 430 m.
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Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar and short trek to Everest View Hotel (3,850 m) and Khumjung village after visiting the Sherpa Culture Museum and the Sagarmatha National Park Museum. Approx. 3 hours hike, ascending and descending 450 m.
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This day begins with an easy walk to Phunki Thanga, during which you may observe sheeps, deers and himalayan birds. Then, the trek ascends steadily to Dole (4,200 m) through rhododendron and pine forests offering stunning views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku, and through the picturesque villages of Mong La. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 1,050 m and descending 520 m.
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The trail continues to climb gradually to Machermo (4,470 m), with views of peaks like Cho Oyu and Kangtega becoming more prominent. In Machermo, you can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) aid post for a talk on altitude sickness prevention. Approx 4/5 hours hike, ascending 420 m and descending 60 m.
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The trail to Gokyo settlement (4,790 m) climbs on a rocky valley along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. Among the series of Gokyo Lakes, the most famous is the Third Lake with its turquoise water. Approx 4/5 hours hike, ascending 430 m and descending 50 m.
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The trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) is steep and challenging but incredibly rewarding. From the summit, you can admire one of the most stunning panoramic views in the region, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, as well as the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier. The climb is best done early in the morning to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending and descending 590 m.
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The return trek follows the same route back through Machermo and Dole (4,200 m), offering new perspectives on the landscapes you passed through earlier. Approx 8/9 hours hike, ascending 200 m and descending 930 m.
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On the way back, the trail diverts toward Phortse (3,840 m), a traditional Sherpa village located on the quieter side of the Khumbu Valley. The trail crosses the Dudh Koshi river, and climbs to Phortse, offering magnificent views of Thamserku, Kangtega and Kongde mountains. Approx 4 hours hike, ascending 220 m and descending 450 m.
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A beautiful journey along Dudh Koshi River and in the forest of rhododendron until Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 510 m and descending 880 m.
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Back to Lukla (2,850 m) through the same route. Approx 8/9 hours hike, ascending 880 m and descending 1,420 m.
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Back to Kathmandu by morning flight. 35 minutes flight and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Gallery
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