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Gokyo Ri Trek

Gokyo Ri Trekking - 13 Days

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Recommended by 99% of Travelers
  • Scenic and adventurous flight to Lukla.
  • Explore Sagarmatha National Park- UNESCO enlisted World Heritage site.
  • Summit Gokyo Ri (5357m), and enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Gokyo lakes at an altitude of 4700-5000m.
  • Explore unique Sherpa culture and lifestyles
  • Khumjung Monastery-house of Yeti scalp
  • Witness wildlife like Himalayan Tahr, Musk deer, wild goat, yaks
  • Ethnic village settlement of Dole, Macchermo, Toktok, and Gokyo
Duration
13 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate (Intermediate Level)
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5357m Gokyo Ri
Group Size
1-16
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking and Sightseeing
Best Time
Feb, Mar, April, May, June, Sept, Oct, Nov & Dec

Gokyo Ri trekking is Known as Gokyo Lake Trekking in the Everest region. 14 days of Gokyo Ri trekking is perfect for those who looking for challenges and a less crowded trekking destination that offers the best view of Mt Everest for a lifetime experience. Gokyo Valley is a hidden treasure of the Everest region that offers impressive views of Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Valley, icy rivers, glaciers, and snow-capped pinnacles like Everest (8848m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8501m), Pumori (7145m) and Makalu (8463m). The major attraction of the trek is the Gokyo Lake comprising six other lakes covering an area of 7770 hectares. The trekking trail to the Gokyo Ri initially follows the same trail as the Everest Base camp trek up to Sansa Just Above Namche Bazaar, a junction between EBC and Gokyo Valley, and then separates to Mongla pass from where trekkers can enjoy captivating sights of Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and Mt. Khumbila. During the journey, trekkers will see the Sherpa ethnic village settlement of Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Longpongo Lake (4690m), and Ngozumpa glacier Moraine until you arrive at the final destination of the trip, Gokyo Peak/Gokyo Ri. Once you summit the peak, you can enjoy the astonishing sights of Everest (8848m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8501m), Pumori (7145m), Ngozumpa Glacier (the world's biggest ice glacier), and Gokyo lake all at once, unlike the Everest trek where you have to hike to Kalapathar to enjoy the 360-degree panorama of the Everest.

/Gokyo Lake Trekking

Located on the rim of the Everest Region, Gokyo Ri (5357m) is one of the popular trekking destinations of the Khumbu region and the best alternative to the commercialized Everest base camp trek. The 14-day Gokyo Ri trek starts from the Lukla and winds off to the majestic Everest region with a scenic Lukla Flight.
Trekking in the Everest region is not all about the sights you get to enjoy but also about the warm hospitality provided by the Sherpa community. Here at Beyond the Limit Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., we offer the best-customized trekking packages for solo couples, family, and corporate group trekkers. So if you are already planning for your trip to Nepal let us help you plan it better.

Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty

The Gokyo Ri trek is one of the most fascinating treks of Nepal, with few ups and downs. Among several challenges you will face during the trip, the major ones are mentioned below:

Weather and temperature

Trekking from March to May and September to December means you will not be a victim of harsh climatic conditions, as the temperature during this season is relatively warmer, and you can enjoy the bits of nature to the fullest.
However, trekking in June and August means constant pouring and slippery trails that are enough to cause a nuisance to your trekking experience. Similarly, trekking from January to February means heavy snowing and freezing temperatures. But, the positive side of trekking during this time is that you can get rooms at a cheaper rate, and the trail is less crowded, meaning trekkers can explore nature and click marvelous pictures without getting photobombed.

Altitude sickness

While trekking at an elevated altitude, there is a high chance of Altitude sickness. As you move to the upper region, the oxygen level gets thinner resulting in difficulty breathing. Hence, while you are trekking above 4000-5000m, make sure that you acknowledge the early signs and symptoms of altitude sickness. Ask for help with Guide before your health condition gets worse. Resting and hydrating is the only way to cure altitude sickness, but if rest does not work, you will have to descend to a lower altitude and end the trip.

Gokyo lake with Renjo La Pass

Duration of the trek

If you are an experienced trekker, you might know the importance of acclimatization during the trip. Making your itinerary longer is always the best plan than cutting it short. If you decrease the trekking days with no acclimatization, you will be walking more hours than on average. The continuous walk through the varying elevations can cause various health hazards like altitude sickness.
Hence, choosing a trekking package that allows you to acclimatize your body during the trek and offers a 4-6 hour walk on average is the best package for you.

How to overcome these difficulties?

✔ Hydrate and acclimatize properly to reduce the chances of getting altitude sickness
✔ If you are a novice trekker, make sure that you have built the stamina required for the trek
✔ Always trek during the peak season when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is warmer
✔ Hire a licensed guide for a safe and secure trek
✔ Don’t over or under-pack.

Plan your Trips


Best Month to Trek Visit Gokyo Ri

Just like the other treks of Nepal, the best month to do the Gokyo Ri trek is during the spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-December). During this season, the weather is clear and warm, and the trekking trail is adorned with blossoming flowers making the trip even more fantastic.

  • January-February (Winter)
    January to February is the coldest period where the temperature can decrease to -15 degrees Celcius. The heavy snowfall and freezing temperature But the sights of the snow-capped pinnacles make it all worthwhile on a clear day. Another fascinating thing about trekking in the winter season is that the trail is less crowded, and you can enjoy every spot the way you like. This time is best for trekkers who want to skip the hassle of trekking on a crowded trail.
     
  • March-May (Spring)
    It is the best time to go for the Gokyo Ri trek as the temperature is favorable, and trekkers can enjoy the outstanding sights of the Himalayas as well as glaciers. The trails look lovely with the blooming rhododendron, lilies, drumstick primrose, kumaon iris, silky rose (jungali gulaf), and others.
     
  • June-August (Monsoon)
    The June-August period is monsoon here in Nepal. The trek is enjoyable, but due to the heavy rainfall, the chances of Lukla flight cancellation from Kathmandu are very high. Since it's monsoon, very few trekkers who want to witness the dramatic side of the Himalayas only trek during the season. Hence, the trail is empty, and nature will be at its best after the fresh rain shower.
     
  • September-December (Autumn)
    September to December is another best month for the Gokyo Ri trekking. The temperature rises to 5 degrees at night and hence is relatively warmer. Trekking during this time means you will not only be able to enjoy the panoramic sights of the Himalayas but will also get an opportunity to witness the biggest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar. The whole mood and weather during this time are pleasing and energetic.

Gokyo Valley (Ri) Trekking Cost:

Gokyo-Trekking-2024

The Gokyo Ri trek can cost according to the service you will Take. Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition offer a different standard of the package depending upon various factors like:

  • The total days you will be spending on the trail
  • The services you use
  • The modes of transportation used
  • The season you plan your trek
  • The number of trekkers in your group
  • Food and drinks you savor during the trip and many more.

You can skip the hassle of calculating the breakdown cost and buy a trekking package that includes all your trekking expenses like accommodation, transportation, food costs, and permit costs. Other than these, the costs of the following are not included in the packages of trekking companies, so you might want to have a look at them.

Travel Insurance Cost
During this trek, you will be trekking at a higher elevation. Hence, we recommend you have a reliable insurance plan covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation Medical up to 5000m.
Together with this, ensure that the insurance covers trip cancellation or any other damage to make the trip safe and secure. The insurance cost depends upon the policy you choose. if you need any help finding out Insurance company let us know

Equipment Cost
The most important thing you need to consider during your trip is the list of equipment you will need. A trekking checklist includes gear like trekking boots, jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and other items. If you don't have these items, you can easily rent them from the local shop in Nepal. The price for renting the gear ranges from USD 1-5 (Per item) based on the quality and type of equipment you want to rent.

Miscellaneous costs
Other than the ones mentioned in the above list, there are some extra miscellaneous costs that you might have to consider during the trip. This cost includes buying souvenirs, tipping, hot water, wifi, and charging ports.


Itinerary
Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu through Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a representative from Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition P. Ltd will receive you and escort you to your Hotel. After check-in, you’ll be visited by your trekking guide to carry out the final preparation for the trip. Overnight stay at Kathmandu in Kathmandu  with Bed and Breakfast 3-star Hotel standard. 

Today is a Trekking Preparation Day for your Gokyo Ri Trekking. you will do last-minute shopping and final check your trekking equipment with our Trek leaders. Our Trekking Leader will give you a briefing about the flowing program and necessary equipment and then you can do sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley yourself If you like to arrange with us let us know Overnight sleep at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Today in the morning after breakfast you will fly for Lukla which is 2804m high. The domestic airlines take around 35 minutes flight to reach Lukla airport from Kathmandu. From the first week of October to the last week of November and the first week of March to the last week of May the flight moved to Manthali Airport Ramechhap Because of Busy air traffic. The Lukla airport is named by Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Lukla is a small but beautiful village, we take some time to meet our crew and manage the baggage. Through the Lukla village, we start our adventurous journey to Phakding which lies at an altitude of 2610m. The never-seen vegetation and the dramatic hillside on the way through Dudh Koshi add inspiration to trekking of Gokyo Lake trek. Until we reach Phakding you can see the various long old monasteries placed on the beautiful village and the way. In this day we will manage breakfast, lunch, and dinner Overnight at the Hotel.

we will set out for Namche bazaar After having breakfast at Phakdingwe start our trek with partners and friends. The day is a little different than the trek from Lukla to Phakding. Somewhere we walk uphill and somewhere downhill. The interesting thing is we cross Dudh Koshi time and again. On the way, we reach the beautiful Benkar village, where views of Mt. Thamserku give you happiness. In continuous walking, we ascend at Monjo, which is the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. At Monjo, the official keep your trekking records by checking your permits. We should walk more to reach Namche Bazaar through Jorsale. Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Tawache, and Kusum Kangaru are the major views of mountains that can be seen on this route. After walking 5/6 hours from Phakding we can reach the colorful beautiful village of Namche Bazaar. Overnight at Namche bazaar (3440m.) with B, L, D.

Namche Bazaar is the gateway of the Khumbu region. instead of spending the whole day resting In Namche bazaar, we will be hiking to Shyangboche Everest Hotel. According to health experts, we have to get enough Acclimatization and rest for the long-run trekking. Namche Bazaar has most of the facilities. You can get government offices, email-internet, ATMs, shops, bakeries, restaurants, etc. You also get a chance to visit the Tourist visitor center in Namche Bazaar, our guide take you there. The information about various mountains their characteristics, the vegetation available in high mountains, information about Sagarmatha National Park, and the wildlife and birds available in the national park also can be found. evening dinner and have a good sleep

After having breakfast in Namche we start our trek in a romantic mood to Dole Village with close-up views of Thamserku and Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other magnificent views of hidden Himalayas. By seeing wild animals like Himalayan thar and deer we reached the junction of Everest base camp and Gokyo valley, named Sansa. We cross the Mongla and pass the best viewpoint for Phortse village from where we can view the superb views of Thamserku, Ama dablam, and Mt. Khumbila. We go ahead down to Phorse Tenga and climb up to the dole. Overnight to Lodgein Dole (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner )

Today we start our trek after breakfast. On the way, you can see the unbeatable scene of various flora and fauna as well as wild creatures with unexpected encounters. You can see the continuous flow of Dudh Koshi from the middle of the beautiful village. This village Machhermo not only gives you the ancient picture of early Khumbuwan people but also a chance to see the local culture and heritage. If you feel hesitant because of physical sickness, you can check your problem at Himalayan Rescue Hospital in Machhermo. When we reach Mochhermo, our targeted trekking hour will be finished. You will stay overnight in Machhermo and the management of living, dining, and breakfast will be managed by Trek leader of Beyond the Limits Treks. Overnight at the Hotel (breakfast Lunch and dinner )

Today is Acclimatization Day at Machhermo. Today you have an easy day. this is very important for your Trekking in Gokyo Valley to make it successful without any high altitude sickness. you can Hike to Machhermo Valley Hike one of the hills return to Machhermo and have lunch make an easy day (4470m)

Today, our attraction will be Chorten. You can see the northern part of Cho Oyu and Mr Thamserku as well as down of Gokyo valley. After some walk, we reach Pangka (4480m.) and trek through the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. We can see the Lama's footprints on a stone after passing the first lake of Gokyo Valley, Longpongo. Likewise, we can pass the second lake named Taboche Tsho, which is interesting. The surging stream links the third lake named Gokyo Cho. Gokyo village is situated on the northern shore of Dudh Pokhari. We will be busy on to explore the village and another adventurous place, lake, and scene.

Today is summit day for Gokyo Ri, probably the best viewpoint in the Everest area to see Mt. Everest and its surroundings. you will see 360-degree mountain views including Mt Everest, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, Cho you, Ghajungkang glacier, and the beautiful lake of Gokyo valley. after this you will return to the hotel have breakfast and  trek down to Machermo for an overnight 

This Day you will back to the tree line where you will find greenery that you missed higher up. Gaining more Oxygen back to your body you may feel so strong and fit to walk up and down. Encountering some amazing flora and fauna on the side of Mt Khumbila and on the bank of Dudh Koshi River gives you great opportunities to see their life and struggle in a mountainous region. At night you can have western nightlife in Namche going to some coffee shops and bars run at Namche bazaar by local Sherpa people.

Today is the last day of the walk as well as the last opportunity to see the beautiful jungle, Mountains, Sherpa village, and regular beautiful chants of the Dudh Koshi River. During your walk back to Lukla you will pass the Village of Tawa, Monjo, Benker, Tok Tok, Phakding, Ghat, Thado Koshi and Cheplung may a chance to see lots of prayer wheels, Flags, and carved stones beautifully will reminds you that you are in the land of Buddhist and Adventurous Sherpas and their traditional relay with nature and life.

Today before having our breakfast we have to go to Tenzing Hillary airport to fly back to Kathmandu, ending our all-hard but amazing trek of Khumbu Valley. During your fly, you may have another chance to have a long view of the Himalayas (Mt Numbur, Mt Gauri Shankar, Mt Langtang, and Ganesh Himal) starting from east to west until your flight lands at Kathmandu airport. After you land you will transfer to your hotel by our vehicle.

Route Map
Gokyo-Ri-Trek-Map
Cost Details
Includes

Transport

  • Pick up from Kathmandu International Airport Terminal 01
  • Your round-trip flight to & from Lukla
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Round trip flight for guide and Assistance guide ( if you have an assistance guide)
  • Ground Transportation as per itinerary(note that from the 1st of October to the end of November and the 1st of April to the end of May, Nepal Civil Aviation moves to Manthali Airport at Ramechhap for Lukla flight due to heavy air traffic, in this care if you like to travel by private car, it is an extra charge by car cost RS.12000 By Jeep Rs17000, By HAice RS.26000) but sharing Transportation is including in Package Price
  • Drop at the Airport on your departure day

Accommodation

  • 3-night three-star Hotel in Kathmandu ( if you like to stay at a Luxury Hotel in Kathmandu let us Know )
  • 11 Night Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis on trekking trails during the trek
  • Single supplementary $200(if you like to take single supplementary)

Food

  • Daily freshly cooked meals three times a day (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) in the mountains
  • 3 Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Seasonal Fresh fruits after dinner during the Trek
  • Farewell Dinner

Trekking Staff

  • Government-registered speaking experienced Trekking guide
  • One Assistant guide for every 7 trekkers including their food, accommodation, transportation, insurance, salary, and equipment
  • Trekking crews salary, insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.

Permits and Taxes

  • Everest National Park Permit
  • Pasang Lhamu Municipality Trekking Card fees
  • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT

Complimentary

  • Trekking maps of Everest Gokyo Region
  • Emergency rescue service arrangement ( Please do Insurance from your country that covers Medical and Evacuation)
  • Sleeping bag and down jacket on rent (you have to return after your Trek), if you have your own you can bring it with you
  • Complimentary Duffel bags to keep your belongings to be carried by a porter if required
  • Certificate of achievement
  • farewell Dinner
Excludes
  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fees
  • If you like to take Porter USD 22 between two Trekkers the Porter will carry 20/22 Kilo in Total
  • Single supplementary $200 (if you are only one person)
  • All drinks( Hot/cold/Alcoholic on the mountain)
  • Personal Nature expenses
  • Travel Insurance( need to cover Medical and evacuation)
  • Nepal Visa Fee( Can be received on your arrival day at Kathmandu Airport )
  • If more than the 3-night hotel in Kathmandu
  • If you like to Book a Hotel yourself self please let Us Know or If you like to Upgrade the hotel that we offer please feel free to tell us.
  • If you want to stay at a luxury hotel in Kathmandu let us know (ref: Radisson, Ramada Encore, etc)
  • Meals in Kathmandu
  • Hot shower during the trek
  • All chargeable batteries, camera
  • Entrance fees in Kathmandu on sightseeing days.
  • Tips for guides and porters (expected)
  • Natural or Political Disturbances beyond our Control which lead to extra cost
  • The Extra cost of any case early return from Trekking/tour.
Essential Information

Please Note That the service and Price we provide on our website is 3 stars Standard Hotel in Kathmandu. If you want to Upgrade your Kathmandu hotel, please let us know. We always customize our packages to our clients' interests.

Gokyo Ri Trekking - 13 Days FAQs

During the Gokyo Ri trek, you will be at the maximum elevation of 5357m at Gokyo Ri. Trekking at such a high altitude means trekkers might face different health complications like altitude sickness. Hence, having insurance covering your medical fees, trip cancellation, accidents, thefts, and emergency helicopter evacuation will allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

On average, you will be walking 5-6 hours a day during the Gokyo Ri Trekking.

The menu available during the trip mainly includes local dishes and a mix of Asian and Western cuisines sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients for the trek. We highly recommend our trekkers to include liquid food in their diets and avoid meat products and consumption of alcoholic beverages as they may upset their stomachs. And also, make sure that the water you are drinking is purified.

  • For breakfast, you will be provided oatmeal, pancakes, porridge, eggs (boiled, omelets), french toast with jam, cornflakes, vegetables, and hot drinks like tea and coffees.
  • For lunch, you can get the staple Nepali dish (dal, bhat, and tarkari), spaghetti, pasta, curries, momo, pie, sherpa stew, pizza, and thukpa
  • For dinner, you will be provided with a similar item as the lunch with a few other dishes like Korean ramen noodles, rice pudding, macaroni, curries, and soup items.  

The foods prepared in the teahouses are not only nutritious but are also hygienic. So do enjoy every items listed on the menu.

During your journey to Gokyo Ri, you will be accommodated in teahouses that offers two kind of accommodation. One is a basic twin bed sharing accommodation facility and other one is with a private bathroom. There is a slight difference in the price range however, the teahouses are clean and has comfortable beds for a nice sleep. The teahouses are well equipped to allow you to use hot water and WIFI. However, you have to pay an extra charge to use these services.

Note: During the peak season, finding a room is pretty hard, the last minute teahouse booking means you might end up sleeping in the dorm room. Hence, make sure to buy trekking package that already includes accommodation cost in the teahouse.

The key to successful trekking is to start and end the trek at the same pace. Meaning, that beginners with no previous trekking experience can also complete the Gokyo Ri trek if they follow a simple rule, slow and steady wins the race. As long as you are determined and avoid alcoholic beverages, drink enough water, and acclimatize properly, both beginners and experienced trekkers can complete the trek.  

However, we request our trekkers to prepare their bodies by starting their cardio training 5-6 months before the trek. They can do jogging, hiking, swimming, cycling, and others.

Some of the teahouses at higher altitudes offer WIFI services to the trekkers. But, the service is not free, and you will be charged a certain amount as allocated by the owners.

The Gokyo trek is a moderately challenging trek in Nepal that does not require technical skills. Trekkers will be walking 5-6 hours on average through steep hills and rough downhills of the Himalayas. Some of the trails are demanding. Otherwise, the trek can be completed by anyone with decent physical fitness and previous trekking experience.
However, if this is your first trek, we recommend you to do enough cardio exercises and short hikes before you sign up for the trip.

Yes, trekkers can customize the itinerary of the Gokyo trek according to their interests or the time they will be staying in Nepal. Trekkers can add EBC trek with Gokyo Ri trek if they have an extra few days in Nepal or can add other tours or make the trip short, all you have to do is provide us with your available days, and we will plan the best trip for you.