Gokyo Valley Trek
Trip Type
Trekking In Nepal
Accomodation
Tea House
Destination
Nepal
Start Point
Kathmandu
Region
Everest Region
Duration
10 Days
Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the adventurous treks in the Everest Region. It is an iconic trek that offers the breathtaking views of Himalayas, pristine glacier lake. It is less crowded compared to classic EBC trek. The maximum altitude is Gokyo Ri(5,357 m) and Renjo La Pass(5,420 m).
Seasonal Information:
As the season is very crucial for the experience of trekkers, here is a guide for you to decide in which season to trek. The best season for this trek is Spring (March–May). In the spring season, the temperature is mild and you can see clear skies. The blooms of rhododendrons. It is also best for photography and panoramic views. Likewise, Monsoon/Summer (June–August) is not recommended. In this season, heavy rainfall takes place and due to that the view is not visible. There is a high risk of landslides in the lower region. Autumn (September–November) is a peak season. The weather is stable and the temperature is moderate. The trekking conditions are ideal. In Winter (December–February), the season is least crowded for trekking as it is very cold, like -20 Celsius at night. You can see snowy landscapes.
Cultural and natural insights
In cultural insights, you can learn about Sherpa’s heritage and Buddhism. You can explore Namche Bazaar which is the capital of Sherpas. You can see cafés, monasteries, and markets. The region is spotted with prayer flags, mani stones that reflect the spiritual connection of people. You can take a detour to visit the largest monastery, which is Tengboche Monastery. Naturally, it is a paradise with diverse landscapes as you can see:
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Gokyo Lakes It features stunning turquoise glacial lakes. It is considered holy by Hindus and Buddhists.
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Ngozumpa Glacier This is the largest glacier in Nepal. It is visible from Gokyo Ri and surrounding areas.
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It is home to rare species like snow leopard, Himalayan Thar, musk deer, Danphe. You can see rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and junipers.
Preparation Guide: Fitness, Gear and Permits
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For physical fitness, cardiovascular exercise is needed. You need to do strength training to walk for many hours. You need hiking practice.
Packing list:
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Clothing: You need layered clothes, an insulated jacket, waterproof shell, trekking pants, gloves, hat, gaiters.
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Footwear: You need high-quality trekking boots that have to be waterproof.
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Gear: You need a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and headlamp.
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Essentials: You need sunscreen, lip balm, and a water purification tablet.
You need Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.
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Sustainable and Responsible Trekking:
It is our responsibility to preserve the beauty of the Himalayas. We need to balance the ecological system so we can contribute a little by following actions:
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Stay in local sustainable promoting teahouses
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You can buy local products and help to uplift local economy
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You should carry reusable water bottle
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You should respect the wildlife
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You can explore the culture and promote it
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You can hire Guides/Porters for ethical tourism.
Expectation of Modern Trekkers:
As of today’s generations, they seek the mix of adventure, comfort and connectivity outside the camp. Here are some expectation that we try to meet:
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Accommodation and Food:
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Access to the wi-fi at the teahouses.
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Comfortable lodging with warm meals
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Simple but nutritious food in breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Trekking with Technology
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Usage of drones during the trek but needs permission
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Available offline maps to get insights of the camp, route
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Services of health support for high altitude related issues by Himalayan Rescue Association in Pheriche.
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Customizable trekking experience for solo travellers or groups for more fun in adventure.
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Sustainable and ethical practices as sustainable practice of waste management and using renewable energy.
Why Trek with Nepal Outdoor Expeditions?
At Nepal Outdoor Expeditions, we’re passionate about creating safe, exciting, and truly memorable adventure treks throughout Nepal’s legendary trails and hidden gems. With deep-rooted local knowledge and years of hands-on experience, our expert team ensures every trek is smooth, culturally immersive, and well-supported. Whether you're summiting high mountain passes or exploring off-the-beaten-path valleys, we handle the details, so you can focus on the journey.
Top Adventure Treks with Nepal Outdoor Expeditions
Highlights of the Gokyo Valley Trek
Highlights :
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You can witness the stunning view of Mount Everest along with mount Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
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You can witness the largest glacier in the Himalayas that is Ngozumpa Glacier that is located near the Gokyo lakes.
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You can explore the Sherpa culture and traditions living in Namche Bazaar and Machhero.
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As it is less crowded you can experience a peaceful trek.
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You can go to Renjo La pass which is a high altitude pass (5,360 m) and witness the breathtaking view of the Everest region.
Short Itinerary ( 10 days )
You arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel after that we take a flight to Lukla and start our trek to Phakding. You can witness the first glimpse of Mount Everest.
We start our trek to Namche Bazaar, crossing the Hillary suspension bridge entering Sagarmatha National Park. Distance:10 km, walking hours: 6-7 hrs, Altitude gain: 830m
You can explore the Namche Bazaar. You can witness the stunning views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam. You can visit Khumjung Monastery and HIllary School. Distance: 5km, walking hours: 3-4 hrs, altitude gain: 440m and altitude loss: 440m
Moving forward to Dole from Namche Bazaar, you can get the view of Cho Oyu(8,188 m). It is a less crowded trail, and you can also see Rhododendron forest. Distance:11km, walking hours: 5-6 hrs, altitude gain: 760m
Following the route, trek to Machhermo from Dole, you can see Ngozumpa Glacier and Yak pastures. Stay overnight at a teahouse. Distance:8 km, walking hours: 4-5 hrs, altitude gain: 270m
Trek to Gokyo Lakes, passing four lakes. We reached Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier of Nepal. Distance:7 km, walking hours: 5-6 hrs, altitude gain: 320m
Next day we hike to Gokyo Ri and return where you can see the 5th Gokyo Lake. You can witness the stunning sunrise pleasuring Everest Makalu, and Lhotse. Though reaching 5th Gokyo lake is optional to get a closer view to mount Everest. Distance: 6km (round trip), walking hours:4-5 hrs, altitude gain:567m and altitude loss: 567m
Descending through alpine meadows and yak pastures we return to Dole from Gokyo Ri and stay overnight at a teahouse. Distance: 11 km , walking hours: 5-6 hrs and altitude loss: 590m
Tracing back to Namche Bazaar and relaxing, exploring the Bazaar. Distance:10km, walking hours:5-6 hrs, altitude loss:760m
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla and take flight back to Kathmandu, celebrating the completion of trek with the team and transfer to the International Airport for your Departure. Distance:18km, Walking hours:6-7 hrs, altitude loss:580 m(trek).
Cost Includes
Included:
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Transportation Cost
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Accommodation and Meals cost
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Trekking permits and fees
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First aid and Emergency support cost
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If hired then guides/porters service cost
Cost Excludes
Excluded:
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Your perusal trekking equipment and gear cost
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Cost of extra accommodation and meals
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Wifi charges and hot showers cost
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Tips for porters/ guides
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Travel insurance cost
