The Everest Gokyo Trek is one of the best trails in the Everest region of Nepal. This 11-day trek from Kathmandu includes Everest Base Camp(5,364m), Cho La Pass(5,420m), Gokyo Valley, and Gokyo Ri(5,380m). You'll experience stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The trek combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with a visit to the tranquil Gokyo Lakes and a challenging yet rewarding climb over Cho La Pass. Ideal for adventure seekers, this trek offers an unforgettable journey through some of Nepal's most iconic and beautiful scenery.
The Everest Gokyo Trekking is a popular 12-16-day trek in the Everest region of Nepal. It covers a total distance of approximately 120 kilometers and reaches a maximum altitude of 5,380 meters at Gokyo Ri. The trek passes through several beautiful places including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and the Gokyo Lakes. The terrain is challenging with steep ascents and descents, but the views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, are breathtaking.
➤ Magnificent views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
➤ Explore the traditional Sherpa villages of Namche Bazaar and Khumjung.
➤ Visit the legendary Thyangboche Monastery and its incredible views.
➤ Trek through the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi Valleys.
➤ Cross over the high-altitude Cho La Pass.
➤ Hiking up to Gokyo Ri for the best views of the Himalayas.
➤ Enjoy the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo and their surrounding scenery.
➤ Experience the traditional culture of the Khumbu region.
➤ Visit the sacred Gokyo Lakes and explore the region’s Buddhist sites.
➤ Take a flight to Lukla to experience one of the world’s most thrilling airstrips.
The Everest Gokyo Trekking is a popular trek in the Everest region of Nepal that takes you through the stunning Gokyo Valley and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The trek starts in Lukla, a small town located at an altitude of 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), and ends at the Gokyo Lakes, a series of high-altitude freshwater lakes located in the Gokyo Valley. The trek is a moderate to challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness, and it is recommended to have some prior trekking experience before attempting this trek.
The Everest Gokyo Trekking takes you through a range of landscapes, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky trails, and you will have the opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Sherpa people. The trek takes you to the Gokyo Lakes, considered sacred by the local Sherpa people and home to a variety of flora and fauna. From Gokyo Ri, a peak located near the lakes, you can get a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The trek also takes you through Namche Bazaar, a bustling town located on the way to Gokyo Valley and the gateway to the Everest base camp. Namche Bazaar is a great place to acclimatize and has a range of amenities for trekkers, including lodges, restaurants, and internet cafes. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Tengboche Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Everest region and known for its beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Accommodation during the Budget Everest Gokyo Trekking is typically in lodges or teahouses, which are simple, locally-run establishments that provide basic accommodation, food, and drinks. Most lodges have shared rooms with bunk beds, and some may also have private rooms available for an additional cost. The lodges generally have a common dining area where you can have your meals, and some may also have a common room with a fireplace or wood stove where you can relax and socialize with other trekkers.
Overall, the 11-day Everest Gokyo Trekking is an unforgettable experience that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote regions of Nepal and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is a Moderate to challenging trek that requires a good level of Physical fitness, but the reward of experiencing the beauty and culture of the region is well worth the effort.
During the Everest Gokyo trek, trekkers have several options for accommodation, including lodges and guesthouses that offer basic amenities such as a bed, a table, and a simple toilet. These accommodations are available at a reasonable price and are usually managed by trekking agencies. If you choose to trek through a trekking agency, they will take care of your accommodation, and you won’t have to worry about managing it yourself. The lodges and guesthouses are generally clean and comfortable and offer a safe place to sleep during your trek. However, it is recommended to book in advance if you want to stay in a particular lodge or guesthouse as they tend to fill up quickly during the peak trekking season.
During the Everest Gokyo trekking, trekkers have several options for food and water sources. Most tea houses and lodges offer simple meals ranging from Dal Bhat to pasta, noodles, Tibetan bread, chapati, sandwiches, French fries, boiled potatoes, pancakes, porridge, toast, and pizza. These meals are usually prepared fresh and are of good quality. Trekkers can also buy snacks such as chocolates, biscuits, and energy bars at the tea houses and lodges.
For drinking water, trekkers can buy mineral water, boiled filter water, and tap water from the tea houses and lodges. However, it is important to note that tap water and water from streams may not always be safe for consumption, especially in the lower loop of the Everest region. It is recommended to use water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure that the water is safe to drink.
To trek to Everest Gokyo for 9 days, you will need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit. The cost for these permits is approximately USD 50-60 per person. Additionally, if you plan to visit the Everest Base Camp, you will need to obtain the Everest Base Camp trek permit, which costs around USD 30-35. The total cost of the trek varies depending on the trekking company and the length of your trek. However, on average, you can expect to pay around USD 1200-1500 per person for a 14-16 day trek.
The best time to go on the Gokyo Everest trekking is during the pre-monsoon season from March to May and the post-monsoon season from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally clear with stable temperatures, making it easier to trek without any obstacles. The skies are usually clear, providing excellent views of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes. However, it is important to note that the trek can be done during other months, but it may not be as enjoyable due to monsoon rains or harsh winter conditions. Trekkers are advised to check weather forecasts and trail conditions before embarking on the trek.
The Everest Gokyo trekking via Dole is a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness. Trekkers are advised to engage in regular physical exercise and conditioning for several weeks before the trek. This includes cardiovascular exercises such as running, swimming, and cycling to improve endurance, along with strength training to build muscle. It is also recommended to acclimatize to the altitude by taking short hikes at high altitudes before the trek. Trekkers with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart or lung problems are advised to consult with their doctor before embarking on the trek. Adequate preparation and fitness will make the trek more enjoyable and help avoid altitude sickness and other health issues.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be met by a representative of Safe Holiday Adventure, who will transfer you to your hotel. You will have some time to rest and recover from jetlag before having a welcome dinner with your guide or agency representative.
You will have a full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu, visiting places like the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple). After the sightseeing tour, you will have time to prepare for the trek, and your guide will give you a briefing about the trek, check your gear, and answer any questions you may have.
You will take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which takes around 30-45 minutes. After arriving in Lukla, you will start your trek to Phakding, which takes around 3 hours. Along the way, you will pass through small villages and cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
Today, we start our trek early from the village of Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, leading us through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. As we walk, we can enjoy the sound of the river and the chirping of birds.
After about an hour, we reach the village of Monjo. This is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. Here, we stop at the check post to show our permits. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
Continuing our trek, we cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. The most famous one is the Hillary Suspension Bridge, named after Sir Edmund Hillary. The bridge is high and offers breathtaking views of the river below and the surrounding mountains.
As we climb higher, the trail becomes steeper. We pass through the village of Jorsalle, the last village before Namche Bazaar. Here, we can take a short break, refill our water bottles, and enjoy some snacks.
The final part of the trek is a steep ascent. It’s challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of Everest and Lhotse in the distance. After about five hours of trekking, we finally reached Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region.
Namche Bazaar is a vibrant town with shops, restaurants, and markets. It’s a great place to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude. You can explore the town, visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Today, you will have a rest day in Namche Bazaar, which is a great opportunity to explore the town and acclimatize to the altitude. You can visit the local market, hike up to the Everest View Hotel for the panoramic view of the Himalayas, or visit the Sherpa Cultural Museum.
Today, we start our trek early in the morning from Namche Bazaar. The trail begins with a steep climb, leading us through stunning rhododendrons and juniper forests. The fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery make for a refreshing start to the day.
After a couple of hours, we reach the village of Sanasa. Here, the trail splits, and we take the path towards Gokyo Valley. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Next, we pass through the village of Mong La, which sits on a ridge with stunning panoramic views. We take a short break here to rest and enjoy the scenery. From Mong La, the trail descends slightly before we continue our steady climb towards Dole.
As we trek higher, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the landscape
Day 06: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470 m/14,665 ft) – 04 hrs
Leaving the peaceful village of Dole early in the morning, the trail takes us through stunning rhododendron forests. The vibrant colors and fresh mountain air make for a pleasant start to the day’s trek.
As we ascend steadily, the views of the surrounding peaks become more spectacular. The trail passes through small settlements and grazing areas where yaks are often seen, adding to the charm of the journey.
The climb is gradual, without any high passes to cross today. The landscape becomes more rugged and the vegetation thinner as we gain altitude.
After about four hours of trekking, we arrive at Machhermo, a small village nestled in a beautiful valley. Known for its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, Machhermo is a perfect place to rest, enjoy a warm meal, and soak in the stunning scenery.
rugged. The trail winds through several small settlements where we can stop for a brief rest and some refreshments.
Finally, after about six hours of trekking, we reached Dole, a small village nestled in a beautiful valley. Dole is a peaceful place, perfect for resting and acclimatizing. Here, we can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Leaving the peaceful village of Dole early in the morning, the trail takes us through stunning rhododendron forests. The vibrant colors and fresh mountain air make for a pleasant start to the day’s trek.
As we ascend steadily, the views of the surrounding peaks become more spectacular. The trail passes through small settlements and grazing areas where yaks are often seen, adding to the charm of the journey.
The climb is gradual, without any high passes to cross today. The landscape becomes more rugged and the vegetation thinner as we gain altitude.
After about four hours of trekking, we arrive at Machhermo, a small village nestled in a beautiful valley. Known for its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, Machhermo is a perfect place to rest, enjoy a warm meal, and soak in the stunning scenery.
We start our walk from Machchhermo early in the morning. The trail is a bit steep, but the views are beautiful. Along the way, we pass a few tea houses where we can rest and have some tea.
As we get closer to Gokyo, we see the first Gokyo Lake, which is clear and blue. Then, we come across the second Gokyo Lake, which is even more stunning. Finally, we reach the third lake, and next to it is the village of Gokyo.
Gokyo is a peaceful place with amazing views of the lakes and mountains. The water in the lakes is crystal clear, and the surrounding peaks create a beautiful scene. We rest here and enjoy the beauty of Gokyo.
Start early in the morning to hike up to Gokyo Ri. At the top, enjoy stunning views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and other peaks. The scenery is amazing and worth the effort.
After taking in the views, begin your trek back down to Machhermo. The return journey takes about 7 hours. The trail is steep and rocky, so it will be a tough hike. Go slowly and carefully. When you reach Machhermo, you can rest and relax.
Today, our day starts with a hearty breakfast at the teahouse in Machhermo. From there, we begin our trek with a gradual descent along an open mountain cliff. Each step down offers a different perspective of the stunning mountain views, including Tawache, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, and many more.
The trail is easy and pleasant, making it an enjoyable journey. After about two hours of descending, we reach Dole (4,100 m), where there are a few lodges. We can take a break here for tea and soak in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.
From Dole, we continue our trek with a steep descent through beautiful alpine forests towards Phortse Thanga (3,300 m). If we are lucky, we might spot some wildlife along the way, such as musk deer and the colorful Lophophorus bird (the national bird of Nepal).
After reaching Phortse Thanga, the trail ascends steeply through the forest towards Mong Danda. This part of the trek takes about an hour. Mong Danda is a fantastic spot with mesmerizing views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and nearby mountains.
We will spend the night at a teahouse in Mong Danda, enjoying the serene environment and the spectacular mountain scenery around us.
Today is our second last day of the Gokyo trekking adventure. After breakfast at the teahouse in Mong Danda, we begin our descent. The trail gradually leads us down to Sanasa, taking about 1 hour. This part of the trek offers magnificent views and a peaceful walk through the scenic landscape.
From Sanasa, the trail becomes wider and flatter, running along the cliff of the mountain. We continue trekking for about 1.5 hours, passing through Kyangjuma before reaching Namche Bazaar. Upon arrival in Namche, we take a well-deserved break for lunch. This stop allows us to refresh and recharge.
After lunch, we resume our descent to Phakding village. This section of the trek takes about 3-4 hours, with the trail descending alongside the river. We pass through several charming Sherpa villages such as Jorsalle, Monjo, Banker, and Toktok. The journey offers glimpses of traditional Sherpa life and the beautiful surroundings.
Finally, we arrive at Phakding, where we will spend the night. The village, located on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, provides a tranquil setting to relax and reflect on the day’s trek. Tomorrow, we will continue our journey to Lukla, marking the end of our memorable Gokyo trek.
Our trek begins after a hearty breakfast in Phakding. Today’s journey is short and enjoyable, offering a smooth ascent towards Lukla. The trail initially descends gently before a brief climb to the Ghat hilltop. From there, we descend into Ghat, a picturesque Sherpa village adorned with colorful tea houses and traditional inns, set amidst vibrant farming landscapes.
Continuing onward, the trail alternates between gradual ups and downs for about 30 minutes, passing through Dhado Koshi with its Buddhist painting stones and mani walls. As we ascend towards Chhplung village, the scenery, and cultural sights enrich our experience.
After an hour of ascent, we finally reached Lukla, our destination for the day. Here, we celebrate the successful completion of our trek with the team, participating in a gratitude program and reflecting on the memorable moments of our journey together. Thank you.
You will take an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, which takes around 30 Minutes. After arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will have time to rest and recover from the trek……(During peak trekking seasons like September to November and March to May, flights may be rerouted to Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu or Lukla due to air traffic congestion. During other months, direct flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are available both ways.)
On the last day of your Everest Gokyo Trek adventure, we bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of the Khumbu region. After breakfast in Lukla, we prepare for our scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The flight offers one last panoramic view of the majestic Himalayas, allowing you to reflect on the awe-inspiring journey you’ve just completed.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our team will assist you with transfers to your hotel or onward journey. This marks the end of your incredible trekking experience with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. We hope the memories of the towering peaks, serene lakes, and warm hospitality of the Sherpa people stay with you forever.
Thank you for choosing us for your adventure in Nepal. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable experiences in the Himalayas.
➤ Airport Pickup and Drop-off Services: We will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel in Kathmandu when you arrive. At the end of your trip, we will drop you off at the airport for your departure.
➤ Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu: Enjoy a comfortable stay for 2 nights in a hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
➤ Everest National Park Entry Permits: We will arrange all necessary permits for entry into Everest National Park.
➤ Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee: We will handle the fees required for trekking in the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality area.
➤ Licensed Mountain Guide: A licensed mountain guide will accompany you throughout your trek.
➤ Expenses for Guides: All expenses for your guides, including their salaries, will be covered by us.
➤ Ground Transportation: We will provide all necessary ground transportation as per the itinerary, ensuring smooth and convenient travel.
➤ Meals During the Trek: You will be provided with breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day during the trek.
➤ Tea House Accommodations: Stay in comfortable tea house lodges throughout your trek.
➤ Duffel Bags: If needed, we will provide duffel bags for your convenience.
➤ Basic Medication: Our guide or assistant guide will carry basic medication for any minor health issues that may arise during the trek.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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March 2022 marked the beginning of an extraordinary Trekking to the Everest Gokyo trek, led by Ramu from Safe Holiday Adventure. Those twelve days carved everlasting memories in my heart as we were mesmerized by the grandeur of the majestic mountains, the awe-inspiring glacier icefall, and the enchanting Ijma Valley. The profound impact of this experience has ignited an insatiable thirst for further exploration, leaving me yearning to return to Nepal for my next thrilling adventure. The treasured moments from that trek will forever inspire my desire to delve into the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal once more.
Namaste, Nepal
Juan Bauer
Iceland
Hello, my name is Emily Graham, and I am from England. I had the pleasure of visiting Nepal in December 2022 with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd., a reputable travel company based in Kathmandu. I can confidently say that it was one of the most amazing trips I have ever experienced.
Throughout my journey, the team at Safe Holiday Adventure provided me with exceptional support and assistance. From the moment I arrived, their staff went above and beyond to ensure that I had a memorable and safe adventure. However, I must highlight the outstanding dedication and care exhibited by my guide and porter from Lukla. They were by my side every step of the way, ensuring my well-being and making me feel comfortable throughout the trek.
The accommodations provided during the Everest Gokyo trek were top-notch. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food and the comfort of the private rooms. It was a relief to have such comfortable and cozy spaces to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of trekking.
Undoubtedly, my 10-day Everest Gokyo trek with Safe Holiday Adventure was an incredible experience. The entire journey was meticulously planned and executed, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the breathtaking beauty of the region. The stunning views of the Everest region and the serene Gokyo Lakes left me in awe at every turn.
I’m already looking forward to my next adventure with Safe Holiday Adventure. I have my sights set on tackling the Renjo La and Cho La passes, as well as reaching the Everest Base Camp. I have no doubt that Safe Holiday Adventure will once again provide a remarkable experience.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at Safe Holiday Adventure for making my trip to Nepal truly unforgettable. Thank you for your exceptional service and warm hospitality. Namaste!
Emily Graham,
UK
MY BEST NEPAL TREKKING EXPERINCES WITH TEAM SAFE HOLIDAY ADVENTURE-(P) LTD
I recently completed the Everest Gokyo trek in Nepal with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd in December 2022, and it was an incredible experience. The team at Safe Holiday Adventure were professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to our needs throughout the trek. The views along the trek were breathtaking, and the route itself was challenging yet rewarding. Our guide was excellent, providing us with interesting information about the local culture and pointing out the best spots for photos. The accommodation and food provided by the agency were of a high standard, and we felt well taken care of throughout the trek. Overall, I highly recommend Safe Holiday Adventure to anyone considering trekking in Nepal, and I look forward to my next adventure with them.
Francesco Del Vecchio
NAMASTE!!!
The Gokyo Lake Trek in Everest organized by Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd was an exceptional experience. The trek was perfectly organized and well-managed, with all logistics taken care of seamlessly. The guide provided by the company was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, making the trek even more enjoyable. The porters were also very friendly and reliable. The highlight of the trek was undoubtedly the Gokyo Lakes, and the trek with Safe Holiday Adventure allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region. I highly recommend this trek and this company for anyone looking for a memorable trekking experience in the Everest region.
We tired a great time travelling in Nepal with Gokyo Treks and trip with our guide, who did a fantastic job showing us the Himalayas. We highly recommend trekking with this agency.
we had small budget but we trek with them, as they gave us big discount offer thank you safe Holiday Adventure
Thanks!!!!!!!!!
Hiring a professional guide for the Everest Gokyo Trekking is highly recommended as it can make your trek more enjoyable and safer. Here are some tips for hiring a professional guide:
The Gokyo Trek in Nepal is considered moderately challenging. It involves trekking at high altitudes with varying terrain, including steep ascents and descents. The trek usually takes around 10-12 days, allowing for gradual acclimatization to altitude. It’s suitable for trekkers with some previous hiking experience and a good level of fitness. The views of Everest and the Gokyo Lakes make it a rewarding adventure for those seeking stunning Himalayan landscapes.
The Gokyo Trek package costs between $1100 and $1400 per person. This covers your round-trip flight tickets to Lukla, meals during the trek, accommodation in tea houses, required permits and taxes, a 2-night hotel stay in Kathmandu, and airport transfers. This package ensures you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience in the stunning Himalayas of Nepal.
On the Gokyo Trek, the weather varies throughout the day due to altitude changes. Mornings are generally crisp and clear, perfect for starting your trek. Daytime brings milder temperatures but can also bring occasional clouds and light rain showers, especially during the monsoon season (June to August). Nights get cold, often dropping below freezing, requiring warm clothing. In spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), days are usually clear with pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), while winter (December to February) brings colder days around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F).
There are different routes available during Everest Gokyo trekking, depending on the duration and difficulty level of the trek. Here are some of the popular routes:
Gokyo Lakes Trek: This is the most popular route for Everest Gokyo trekking, and it takes around 12-14 days to complete. The route starts with a flight to Lukla, followed by a trek to Namche Bazaar, and then on to the Gokyo Valley. The route takes you through beautiful landscapes and allows you to see stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek: This route is more challenging and takes around 16-18 days to complete. It starts with a flight to Lukla, followed by a trek to Namche Bazaar, and then on to the Gokyo Valley. From there, you’ll cross the Cho La Pass and continue to the Everest Base Camp. The route offers stunning views of the Himalayas and allows you to see the Khumbu and Nogzompa Glaciers up close.
Gokyo Lakes Renjo La Pass Trek: This route is less crowded and takes around 16-18 days to complete. It starts with a flight to Lukla, followed by a trek to Namche Bazaar, and then on to the Gokyo Valley. From there, you’ll cross the Renjo La Pass continue to Thame, and then back to Namche Bazaar. The route offers stunning views of the Himalayas and allows you to see the traditional Sherpa villages and their culture.
Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes: This route is a combination of the Everest Base Camp trek and the Gokyo Lakes trek. It takes around 18-20 days to complete and starts with a flight to Lukla, followed by a trek to Namche Bazaar and then on to the Gokyo Valley. From there, you’ll cross the Cho La Pass and continue to the Everest Base Camp. The route offers stunning views of the Himalayas and allows you to see both the Gokyo Lakes and the Everest Base Camp.
Climate change is causing rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and shrinking Glaciers in the Everest Gokyo region. The shrinking of Glaciers has significant implications for the water resources of over 1.3 billion people living downstream and also leads to increased risks of destructive Glacial lake outburst floods. The changing climate is also affecting the region’s diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and Himalayan Thar(Mountain Goat). The local communities, who rely on the natural resources of the region for their livelihoods, are also impacted, with agriculture, livestock rearing, and tourism industries affected, leading to food insecurity and economic instability. Urgent action is needed to protect the environment and communities of the Everest Gokyo region.
The Everest Gokyo trek requires appropriate gear and equipment to ensure the safety and comfort of the trekkers. Some of the necessary items include:
It is important to pack light and bring only the necessary items to avoid overburdening the porter and affecting the trekking experience.
The Everest Gokyo trek is a physically demanding trek that requires fitness and endurance. Trekkers are recommended to start training at least 2-3 months before the trek. This training should include a combination of cardiovascular exercises such as running, swimming, or cycling to improve stamina and endurance, as well as strength training to build muscle strength in the legs, core, and upper body. Additionally, it is recommended to take several hikes at high altitudes to acclimatize the body to the changing altitude. Trekkers with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to consult with their doctor before embarking on the trek and to follow a customized training plan.
The Gokyo Ri Trek and Gokyo Lakes Trekking are two popular trekking routes in the Everest region that offer incredible views of the Himalayas and the Gokyo Lakes. Here is some essential information for trekkers considering these treks:
Some tips and advice from experienced trekkers for the Everest Gokyo trek include:
How difficult is the Gokyo Trek?
The Gokyo Trek is moderately challenging. It involves steep ascents and descents, and the altitude can be demanding. However, it’s manageable with proper preparation and acclimatization.
How long does the Gokyo Trek take?
The Gokyo Trek typically takes about 12 to 14 days to complete, depending on the route and the pace of trekking. This duration includes acclimatization days to adjust to high altitudes.
When is the best time to do the Gokyo Trek?
The best times for the Gokyo Trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. These months offer stable weather and clear mountain views.
What are the highlights of the Gokyo Trek?
Highlights of the Gokyo Trek include stunning views of Himalayan peaks like Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu, turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and the challenging ascent of Gokyo Ri for panoramic vistas.
How high is Gokyo Ri?
Gokyo Ri stands at an altitude of approximately 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) above sea level. It offers one of the best panoramic views of Everest and neighboring peaks.
What permits are required for the Gokyo Trek?
Trekkers need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card for the Gokyo Trek. These permits are obtainable in Kathmandu or at entry points to the park.
What is the weather like on the Gokyo Trek?
The weather on the Gokyo Trek varies with the season. During trekking seasons (spring and autumn), days are generally mild with clear skies. Nights can be cold, especially at higher altitudes.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Gokyo Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Gokyo Trek due to the high altitudes reached. It’s important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of symptoms such as headaches or nausea.
How do I prepare for the Gokyo Trek?
To prepare for the Gokyo Trek, focus on cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and hiking. Pack appropriate gear, including layers for varying temperatures, sturdy footwear, and a good backpack.
Are there tea houses or lodges on the Gokyo Trek route?
Yes, there are tea houses and lodges along the Gokyo Trek route. These provide basic accommodation and meals such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, and tea.
What gear do I need for the Gokyo Trek?
Essential gear for the Gokyo Trek includes trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a backpack, trekking poles, and personal hygiene items.
Can I do the Gokyo Trek independently or do I need a guide?
The Gokyo Trek can be done independently, but it’s recommended to hire a guide or join a trekking group for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Guides also assist with logistics and permits.
Are there alternative routes or variations of the Gokyo Trek?
Yes, there are alternative routes and variations of the Gokyo Trek, such as combining it with the Everest Base Camp Trek or extending the trek to include Cho La Pass or Renjo La Pass for added challenge and scenery.
What are the costs associated with the Gokyo Trek?
The costs of the Gokyo Trek vary depending on factors like the trekking season, services included (such as guide and porter service, permits, meals, accommodation), and personal spending habits. Budget around USD 1,500 to USD 2,500 per person for a standard trekking package.
Are there helicopter services available on the Gokyo Trek route?
Yes, helicopter services are available for emergencies or for those who prefer a quicker return to Kathmandu. These services can be arranged through trekking agencies or directly in Namche Bazaar or Kathmandu.