Everest & the Gokyo Trek
Everest & the Gokyo Trek

Everest & the Gokyo Trek

The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Trek is one of the most popular and breathtaking trekking routes in the Everest region of Nepal. This trek combines the classic Everest Base Camp trek with a visit to the beautiful Gokyo Valley, offering trekkers a unique and diverse experience in the heart of the Himalayas. The journey usually begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small mountain airstrip. From Lukla, trekkers start their adventure, following the Dudh Koshi River and passing through several Sherpa villages such as Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. These villages are not only great places to rest and acclimatize but also provide a glimpse into the local Sherpa culture and way of life. As trekkers ascend higher, the trail offers awe-inspiring views of towering peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and many others. The trail also passes through rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, and high-altitude landscapes, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience. After reaching Everest Base Camp, trekkers have the opportunity to soak in the magnificent views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. It's a truly humbling experience to stand at the base of the world's highest mountain. The return journey takes trekkers to the Gokyo Valley, known for its pristine lakes and breathtaking scenery. The Gokyo Valley is home to six emerald green lakes, the largest being Gokyo Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,750 meters (15,583 feet). Trekkers climb Gokyo Ri, a nearby peak, to witness a panoramic view of the entire Everest region. The view from Gokyo Ri is often considered even more spectacular than the one from Kala Patthar, a popular viewpoint on the Everest Base Camp route. Throughout the trek, trekkers stay in teahouses or lodges, which offer basic accommodation and meals. The best time to undertake the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is relatively stable, and the views are clear. It's important to note that this trek is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness and acclimatization. Altitude sickness is a potential risk, so trekkers need to ascend gradually and be aware of any symptoms. Hiring a knowledgeable guide or joining a guided tour is highly recommended to ensure safety and enhance the overall experience. Overall, the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and a sense of accomplishment as you explore the world's highest mountain region.

Trip Duration:

10 Days

Trekking area:

Everest Region Nepal

Group Size:

Any

Best Season:

Autumn / Spring

Transportation:

Private car / bus

Trekking grade:

Moderate

Trek Start from:

Kathmandu

Trek End at:

Kathmandu

Overview of Everest & the Gokyo Trek

Definitely the Everest region is not only famous for the gorgeous and giant Mt. Everest, it also offers the superb view of Lhotsu, Nuptsu and Makalu mountains. The Everest region trek is itself an adventurous trek.

But if you trek Everest region through Gokyo Lakes then your excitement will be doable with much more thrill. Everest trek through Gokyo Lakes will offer you to explore the fabulous Gokyo valley, source of the grand Dudh Koshi River - the large Ngojumba Glacier, the famous Cho La pass, and the renowned viewpoints of Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar along with Everest Base Camp.The Everest trek through Gokyo lakes- 18 days is appropriate for those experienced trekkers only who have a passion for the adventurous trek and who are physically fit because the track is extremely evaluated as a complex challenging trek. The adoring and skilled hikers having passion to face the challenge and having an ability to walk at least 6-7 hours per day with a light backpack.

Everest & the Gokyo Trek Itinerary

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On your first day in Kathmandu, you'll arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and be transferred to your hotel. Take some time to rest and recover from your journey. Later, you'll have a trek briefing with your guide to prepare for the upcoming Everest and Gokyo trek. In the evening, explore Thamel's bustling streets and enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Rest well and get ready for an exciting adventure in the majestic Himalayas.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel

On this day, you'll start your journey to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, via a scenic flight from Kathmandu. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. After landing in Lukla's small mountain airstrip, you'll meet your trekking crew and begin trekking towards Phakding. The trail descends through picturesque landscapes, passing through Sherpa villages and crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. You'll experience the warmth of the local culture and witness stunning natural beauty along the way. Overnight, you'll rest in Phakding at an elevation of 2,610 meters, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the Himalayas.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
2652

On Day 3, your trek continues from Phakding towards Namche Bazaar. The trail leads you along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through beautiful forests filled with rhododendron and pine trees. You'll encounter small Sherpa settlements, where you can experience the local way of life and their hospitality. As you ascend, the views of Everest and other surrounding peaks become more prominent, making the trek even more rewarding. After a challenging climb, you'll reach Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town and a significant trading hub in the region. Here, you can explore the vibrant local markets, visit monasteries, and take in the stunning panoramic views of the mountains. The day's trek will take you to an elevation of 3,440 meters, and you'll spend the night in Namche Bazaar, preparing for further acclimatization and the adventures that lie ahead.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
3440

On the acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, Day 4 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you will focus on adapting to the increasing altitude and reducing the risk of altitude sickness. This rest day is essential for your overall trekking experience and well-being. While you won't be gaining much elevation, there are several activities to enjoy in this vibrant Sherpa town. One popular option is to hike to the Everest View Hotel, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,880 meters. The hike offers mesmerizing views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other majestic peaks, providing an unforgettable opportunity for photography and enjoying the Himalayan panoramas. Another option is to visit the nearby Khumjung village, a picturesque Sherpa settlement, where you can explore local monasteries, experience the Sherpa culture, and witness the traditional way of life. Taking this acclimatization day seriously will significantly contribute to your physical well-being and ensure a successful and enjoyable trekking journey ahead.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
3440

On Day 5 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you will leave Namche Bazaar and continue your journey towards Phortse, another charming Sherpa village. The trail leads you through the serene rhododendron and pine forests, and you'll pass by small settlements and captivating landscapes. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Phortse is a less frequented village, which means you'll have a chance to experience a quieter and more authentic atmosphere. The warm hospitality of the locals and the traditional Sherpa culture will enrich your trekking experience. The day's trek will take you to an elevation of 3,810 meters, and you'll spend the night in Phortse, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan scenery.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
4200

On Day 6 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you'll set off from Phortse and continue your ascent towards Machhermo. The trail takes you through enchanting landscapes, including alpine forests and lush meadows, with occasional sightings of yaks grazing peacefully. As you gain altitude, the air becomes thinner, and the surrounding peaks become more prominent in the horizon. Machhermo, situated at an elevation of 4,470 meters, is a quaint and picturesque village nestled amidst the mountains. The village is known for its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect place to rest and acclimatize further. Along the way, you might also come across trekkers from different parts of the world, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and adventure. Upon reaching Machhermo, you'll settle into your accommodation, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings before continuing your trek towards the magnificent Gokyo Valley.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
4470

On Day 7 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you will embark on an exciting journey from Machhermo to the renowned Gokyo Valley. As you trek higher, you'll witness a dramatic change in the landscape, with the surroundings transforming into an alpine wonderland. The trail offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, glacial moraines, and turquoise lakes, creating a breathtaking panorama at every turn. The highlight of the day is reaching the Gokyo Valley, situated at an altitude of 4,790 meters. Gokyo is a stunning and serene location with a series of glacial lakes known as the Gokyo Lakes. The shimmering turquoise waters against the backdrop of towering Himalayan giants, including Cho Oyu, create a surreal and awe-inspiring sight. The pristine beauty of Gokyo makes it a perfect place to explore and take in the majestic surroundings. Upon arrival in Gokyo, you'll settle into your accommodation and have time to relax, savor the serene ambiance, and marvel at the jaw-dropping vistas. The experience of being in the Gokyo Valley is nothing short of magical, and it marks a significant highlight of your trekking adventure. The following day, you'll have the opportunity to hike up Gokyo Ri, a vantage point offering even more mesmerizing views of the Everest region's iconic peaks and landscapes.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
4790

On Day 8 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you'll embark on an exhilarating hike to Gokyo Ri, the highlight of your Gokyo Valley experience. Gokyo Ri is a prominent viewpoint at an elevation of 5,357 meters, offering unparalleled panoramic views of some of the world's highest peaks. The hike to Gokyo Ri is challenging but immensely rewarding. Starting early in the morning, you'll ascend steeply up a rocky trail, taking slow and steady steps to acclimatize to the high altitude. As you climb higher, the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and others, come into view, bathed in the soft glow of the rising sun. Reaching the summit of Gokyo Ri, you'll be greeted with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the entire Everest region. The sight of the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in the Himalayas, is awe-inspiring from this vantage point. The tranquil Gokyo Lakes, nestled between the mountains, add to the beauty of the landscape. Take your time to absorb the beauty, capture stunning photographs, and relish the sense of achievement in conquering this lofty peak. After spending some time at the summit, you'll begin your descent back to Gokyo, where you can rest and bask in the glory of the Himalayan scenery. The hike to Gokyo Ri is an unforgettable experience that provides a unique perspective of the Himalayas, and it's sure to be a cherished memory of your Everest and Gokyo trek.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
5357

On Day 9 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you'll embark on a challenging and adventurous journey to cross the Renjo La Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,360 meters. Crossing Renjo La is a thrilling experience that offers stunning views of the Everest region and the neighboring valleys. The day begins with an early morning start from Gokyo. The trail gradually ascends, taking you through rocky terrain and glacial moraines. As you climb higher, the landscape becomes more rugged and breathtaking, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The pass itself is adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the Himalayas. Upon reaching the Renjo La Pass, you'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other mountains that form a majestic backdrop to the serene Gokyo Valley. The descent from the pass is steep and demanding, but the incredible scenery makes it worthwhile. As you continue your descent, you'll enter the remote Bhote Koshi Valley, a less-visited area of the Everest region. The trail winds through yak pastures and traditional Sherpa villages, offering a glimpse of the local way of life. Finally, you'll arrive at Lungden, a small village where you'll spend the night, surrounded by the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness. Crossing the Renjo La Pass is a challenging yet fulfilling adventure that will leave you with a profound sense of accomplishment and appreciation for the rugged beauty of the Everest region. It is undoubtedly a highlight of your trek, and you'll have cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
5360

On Day 10 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you'll continue your journey from Lungden to the beautiful village of Thame. Thame is a traditional Sherpa settlement situated at an altitude of 3,820 meters, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking surroundings. The trail from Lungden to Thame takes you through picturesque landscapes, passing by pristine rivers and cascading waterfalls. As you trek, you'll be surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery, making for a tranquil and captivating experience. Thame holds significant importance in Sherpa culture as the birthplace of many legendary mountaineers, including Tenzing Norgay, one of the first climbers to summit Mount Everest. The village is dotted with ancient monasteries and chortens, providing a glimpse into the spiritual essence of the region. Upon reaching Thame, you'll have the opportunity to explore the local culture, interact with the friendly Sherpa community, and visit the renowned Thame Monastery. The monastery's peaceful ambiance and stunning views make it an ideal place for reflection and serenity. The night in Thame will be spent in cozy teahouses, allowing you to rest and rejuvenate before continuing your trek. Thame's unique cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a fascinating destination that adds another dimension to your Everest and Gokyo trek.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
3820

On Day 11 of the Everest and Gokyo trek, you'll bid farewell to Thame and begin your trek back towards Namche Bazaar. The trail retraces some of the scenic landscapes you experienced earlier in the journey, allowing you to relish the beauty of the Everest region from a different perspective. As you descend, you might notice how the landscape changes, and the views open up to reveal new vistas of the surrounding mountains. The trail passes through serene forests, Sherpa villages, and terraced fields, providing a glimpse of the local way of life and culture. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you'll feel a sense of familiarity with the vibrant Sherpa town that welcomed you at the beginning of the trek. Now, as a seasoned trekker, you can fully appreciate the charm of Namche and take the time to explore the bustling markets, shops, and monasteries. This will be your final night in the Everest region, so you might gather with your trekking companions to share stories and memories of your incredible journey. The warm hospitality of Namche and the companionship of fellow trekkers will make this a memorable conclusion to your trek. As you prepare for your departure from the Everest region, you'll have a profound appreciation for the natural beauty, cultural richness, and the extraordinary adventure that the Everest and Gokyo trek has offered you.

Food
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
3440

On the last day of your Everest and Gokyo trek, Day 12, you'll set out on the final leg of your journey by trekking back to Lukla. The trail will take you through familiar paths, and as you descend, you'll have a chance to savor the breathtaking views one last time. Once you reach Lukla, you'll bid farewell to your trekking crew and enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation. It's also an opportunity to reminisce about the incredible experiences and challenges you faced during the trek. In Lukla, you'll catch a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The short flight offers one more chance to witness the stunning Himalayan vistas from the air. Upon landing in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where you can freshen up and relax. The rest of the day in Kathmandu is yours to spend as you please. You might want to explore more of the city, visit cultural landmarks such as Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) or Boudhanath Stupa, do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and mementos, or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal's capital city. In the evening, you can celebrate the successful completion of your Everest and Gokyo trek with a farewell dinner, either at your hotel or at a local restaurant. Your unforgettable journey through the Himalayas has come to an end, leaving you with cherished memories and a deeper connection to the awe-inspiring beauty of Nepal's mountains and its people. The next day, you'll depart from Kathmandu with a heart full of adventure and a mind enriched by the experiences of the Everest and Gokyo trek.

Food
Breakfast,
Accomodation
Hotel

Altitude Graph

Additional Information

Trekking Info

Stay Safe

Altitude Sickness: The main and common risk while trekking above about 2500m is Altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude. The available amount of oxygen to sustain mental and physical alertness decreases with altitude. Available oxygen drops as the air density itself, the number of molecules (of both oxygen and nitrogen) per given volume, drops as altitude increases. So don’t ignore, if you have any symptoms then descending to a lower altitude is the only option.

Water: Have some means to purify water, iodine or a fine ceramic filter are the best options. The streams should be considered polluted and whilst bottled water is often available, the disposal of plastic bottles is a problem.

Electricity in Nepal

Nepal is a developing country, Outside of major cities area electricity on trekking can be scares. You should have to pay 100-800 NRs per hour to charge goods on many lodges and also many tea-house treks, including in Annapurna base camp trek, Everest Base camp trek and many others treks also. Chargers often won't work on low power solar systems you find right up in the mountains so u can buy alternative bayonet light to electricity power plug converter, which will only works in low voltage is highlow. The standard Nepalese electrical outlet is a three-pronged triangle so bring three-pronged triangle chargers.

Nepal Climate information

Nepal is a landlocked country which lies in Hindu Kush Himalayan region. Nepal has monsoonal climate having four main seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.

Below is a general guide to conditions at different seasons:


January to March (winter): In this season temperature will decrease at often 0°C (32°F) at night, with extreme cold at high elevations. It is possible to trek in places like the Everest region during the winter but due to extreme cold weather and heavy snow fall it may be quite difficult than as usual.
April to June (summer): In these months it is quite warm and dry weather. There is an abundance of blooming flowers in the Himalayas at this time, with rhododendrons, in particular, adding a splash of color to the landscape. This season is the best time to undertake mountain expeditions.
June to September (Monsoon): There will be heavy monsoonal rainfall in this season. Rains are generally lighter in high Himalayan reasons. In this season the mountain ranges are not often visible due to the clouds.
October to December (autumn): These months are cool and clear which is due to the end of monsoon, there is little dust in the air so this is the best season to visit the hilly and mountainous regions.

Nepal Visas information

Visa in Nepal can be acquired on arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu and also at the border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki border of Nepal - India and Kodari on Nepal-China border. Visa can also acquire at the nearest Nepal Embassy. For visa renewal purpose you can contact at Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan at Kathmandu. A valid passport and one passport -size photo with a light background is required. Visa can be obtained only through payment of cash in the following currency: Euro, Swiss Franc, Pound Sterling, US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Singapore Dollar and Japanese Yen. Credit card, Indian currency and Nepali currency are not accepted as payment of visa fee.

Visa Facility         Duration       Fee
Multiple entry       15 days          US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry       30 days          US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry       90 days          US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency

Respect to Local Peoples

In Nepal, “Namaste” or “Namaskar” is said to an older or high-status person with palms together, figure up. It is used to greet a person in place of goodbye or hello. There is no limitation how many times you say “Namaste” but, it is better if you say once per person, per day. If You want to say “Thank You” then you can say “Dhanyabaad /'ðɅnjɅbɑ:d/ (Dhan-ya-baad)” 

FAQs

The Everest & Gokyo Trek typically takes around 10 days to complete.

The Everest & Gokyo Trek is considered a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. It involves high-altitude hiking, steep ascents and descents, and crossing mountain passes.

The maximum altitude reached during the trek is at Gokyo Ri, which stands at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) above sea level.

Yes, prior trekking experience is highly recommended due to the challenging nature of the trek. It is important to have experience with high-altitude trekking and be physically fit.

Trekkers need to obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Gokyo Ri Trekking Permit. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Lukla before starting the trek.

Accommodation during the trek is in teahouses or lodges along the trail. These provide basic facilities such as a bed, blanket, and meals. The amenities may be more basic at higher altitudes.

Participants should be in good physical condition and have a reasonable level of fitness. Regular exercise and cardio workouts before the trek are recommended to prepare for the physical demands of high-altitude trekking.

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