Gokyo Valley Trek-16 days

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Nepal’s stunning Gokyo Valley on a 16 day expedition. Starting in Kathmandu, delve into its rich history before commencing the trek.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 16 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 5400 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

Embark on an incredible journey through the Himalayas on the Gokyo Valley trek, known for its stunning views and rich culture. Starting from the lively Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, you’ll hike amid towering mountains like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. The trek takes you through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO site filled with diverse plants and animals, where you can adjust to the altitude and learn about Sherpa life. Along the way, you’ll visit Tengboche Monastery, offering amazing views of Ama Dablam, and Khumjung Village, famous for its Hillary School and the legend of the Yeti.

The highlight of the trek is the peaceful Gokyo Valley, home to several beautiful lakes. Dudh Pokhari, the largest lake, sparkles with turquoise water against the snowy peaks. If you’re up for a challenge, you can cross Renjo La Pass for incredible views of Everest and the Khumbu Valley. Whether you’re admiring the Himalayan scenery, experiencing Sherpa hospitality, or exploring ancient monasteries, the Gokyo Valley trek promises an unforgettable adventure through Nepal’s most stunning landscapes.

Gokyo Valley Trek-16 days Highlights 

  • An up-close view of multiple mountain ranges and landscapes
  • Serene glacier lakes, such as Gokyo Lake and Dudh Pokhari
  • Enjoy the lush valleys, stunning cliffs, and untamed forests
  • Explore the various customs, traditions, and way of life of the Himalayan people

Best time for Gokyo Valley Trek-16 days 

The best time to trek the Gokyo Valley is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Everest region, which includes the Gokyo Valley Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 4°C to 28°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oye.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, the Gokyo trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in Everest Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Gokyo Valley Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 1°C to 27°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Gokyo trek trail is more crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Gokyo Valley Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Gokyo Valley. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

 

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Namaste and Welcome to Nepal! Known for its breathtaking Himalayas, Cultural richness, and beautiful valleys. Upon arrival at the airport, a representative from the Kalpa Holidays will greet you warmly, and organize transportation to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in, you’ll receive a brief summary of the exciting adventure that lies ahead. If you’re interested in exploring the city on foot, don’t hesitate to contact your guide, who will do their best to arrange a suitable walking tour tailored to your arrival schedule.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast and Dinner

Today, we will embark on a guided tour of Kathmandu, exploring its rich cultural and religious diversity. Our tour begins at Kathmandu Durbar Square, renowned for its historical architecture, and the Kumari Ghar, home to the living goddess Kumari. Afterward, we will visit Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Next, we will visit the Boudhanath Stupa before returning to the hotel.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2860 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we will embark on an early morning drive to Manthali, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. From there, we will catch a flight to Lukla for approximately 35 minutes, experiencing the beautiful view of the Himalayan ranges. Upon arrival at Lukla, we will hike for 3 hours to Phakding, walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight, we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3440 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast today, we will continue walking beside the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it several times on exciting suspension bridges that are decorated with prayer flags. The trail climbs gradually from Larja Dobhan into Sagamartha National Park, providing breathtaking views of Namche Bazaar, the main Everest entry point. In Namche Bazaar, we’ll spend the night at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3440 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Trekkers feel tired after the long trip to Namche, so we’ll have a break here before moving on to Dole. Today, we’ll walk up to Hotel Everest View in Syangboche and spend the entire day there. The three-hour journey offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, Ama Dablam, Everest, and Thamserku. Following our exploration, we’ll eat breakfast and return to Namche by the same route, where we will spend a night at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4350 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After spending a night in Namche Bazaar, we say goodbye and embark on Dhole. The hike begins with a climb to Mong La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Khumbu Valley. After that, we will descend to Phortse Tenga through the rhododendron and alpine forest. Here,  we will take a short break with breathtaking views of Cho Oyu. Overnight, we will stay at Dhole.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4470 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our destination from Dole to Machhermo begins by passing through the rhododendron forests and beautiful Lhabarma and Luza villages, which offer us a panoramic view of the Khumbu Valley. As we ascend, we will be greeted by the towering peaks of Cho Oyu, Thamserku, and Kangtega. After a difficult ascent to Machhermo, today’s trekking journey ends here. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4700 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We’ll start from early to reach Gokyo because it’s a difficult, long walk that ascends gradually. The trail becomes wider and harder as it leaves Machhermo town, getting drier and with lower oxygen levels. This increases the chance of altitude sickness. With views of Kantega and Cho Oyu, we’ll cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and make our way down the difficult, rough path to Gokyo. The smallest of the main lakes, Gokyo Lake is a breathtaking partially frozen lake nestled in a small gorge. As we get closer to Gokyo Village, we’ll be able to see Cho Oyu, glaciers, and the third lake below. The fourth lake provides a perspective of the climb up Gokyo Ri after a brief walk above the town. We’ll spend the night return to the village, at tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5400 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We will explore the Gokyo Valley today, which is another planned acclimatization day at Gokyo. Today we will visit the Gokyo Ri (5,430m), which offers the best panorama, including breathtaking views of Everest and its surrounding peaks. Then we’ll return to Gokyo for lunch before exploring the local scenery, including the upper lakes and more viewpoints.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5400 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

In the morning, we’ll hike to Gokyo Ri, a small peak above Gokyo village, to take in the spectacular views of the entire Khumbu area. If time allows and our physical conditions permit, we can hike up to the fifth lake, Ngozumba Tsho. The view of Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, is stunning from here.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4200 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we return to the Phortse Thanga, climbing up to the Phortse village for lunch and relaxation. After exploring the area and taking in the breathtaking Himalayan scenery, you’ll embark on a short, flat, but winding path to the river. From here, it’s an hour’s steep climb to the Tyangboche, with opportunities to see pheasants and musk deer along the way. This is a stunning panorama of many mountains, including Mt. Everest. After arrival in Tyangboche, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery, which is the largest in the area. This evening, relax and enjoy the view at the hotel.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3867 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Treks down to Phunkethanga, a small village with a couple of teahouses, after breakfast. From here, the trail descends through the forested path with wonderful memories, and after crossing the local wooden bridge over the Dudh Koshi river, we will continue to the climb to Sanasa to Namche Bazar, and then trek down to Monjo for an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2800 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we make our way back while admiring the lush green surroundings, amazing mountain landscapes, and a neighboring Sherpa settlement. The path finally brings you back to Lukla today. Once you reach Lukla, you can unwind and enjoy the accomplishment of your trek.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 2800 m
  • Meal Breakfast and Dinner

Today, early in the morning, we will fly from Lukla to Manthali, which will take approximately 35 minutes as you fly back to Manthali. Then we’ll drive 4 to 5 hours to Kathmandu. Once you arrive, you will be transferred to your hotel, and you are free to explore the city.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast and Dinner

It’s also a day off in case Lukla experiences bad weather. On this nice day, you will spend the entire day at your leisure, or you may extend your trip with us at an additional expense, or you may use the time to explore Thamel for last-minute shopping, and the evening company will meet you for the farewell dinner.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

The trip concludes here. Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and  Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The trekking route is more difficult than other programs, but The Himalayan Trek does everything to make the trip as smooth, exciting and fun as possible.

Bottled water is easily available at an affordable price. However, please note that plastic bottles are not allowed in the Everest region and therefore mineral water cannot be purchased in plastic.In these areas it is recommended to drink mineral water or boiled and filtered water. To ensure safe drinking water, consider using water purification drops and tablets, which you can purchase in your home country or in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

The weather on the trail to Gokyo Valley Trek is highly variable and unpredictable. In January, temperatures range from a maximum of 4°C during the day to a minimum of -17°C at night and in the mornings, with blue skies and freezing weather prevailing. February brings milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to -15°C, characterized by mild humidity and good visibility. March sees a temperature shift from a maximum of 7°C to a minimum of -12°C, with shorter days and a gradual warming trend, along with occasional snowfall. As April arrives, temperatures vary between a daytime high of 10°C and a nighttime low of -5°C, offering moderate temperatures amidst a stunning landscape adorned with rhododendron and wildflowers. May brings longer, warm, and sunny days, with temperatures ranging from 15°C during the day to 0°C at night. June marks the onset of the rainy season, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 16°C during the day and a minimum of -1°C at night. July and August maintain hot and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 16°C during the day and 2°C at night. September signals the end of the monsoon season, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 2°C during the day and night, accompanied by clear skies. October provides stable weather conditions, with a daytime high of 12°C and a nighttime low of -6°C. November offers sunny and bright days with cold nights, featuring temperatures from 6°C to -12°C. Finally, December introduces foggy and cloudy weather, with a maximum daytime temperature of 4°C and a minimum nighttime temperature of -14°C.

Certainly, you have the capability to achieve your dream of reaching Gokyo and Everest Base Camp with the full support of The Himalayan Trek team, as long as you are reasonably physically fit, capable of walking 5-6 hours daily, and able to trek/hike uphill.

The ideal periods for undertaking the Gokyo Valley Trek are typically from March to May in the spring and from September to December in the autumn. During these times, the weather conditions are favorable, offering excellent visibility and a suitable atmosphere for both Gokyo Valley Trekking.

Certainly! There is no age restriction for the Gokyo Valley Trek. However, it is essential to be in good physical condition and maintain a positive mindset. It is advisable to consult your doctor beforehand, seeking necessary permissions, advice, and obtaining medications suitable for high-altitude travel before embarking on the journey.

While trekking, meals will be provided at teahouses, consisting of common dishes like noodles, rice, pasta, or potatoes, accompanied by vegetables and options such as egg, chicken, or meat. For breakfast, typical offerings include Tibetan specialties, eggs, pancakes, bread, porridge, muesli, and toast with peanut butter and honey.

You will be provided with teahouse accommodations for your Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek. This arrangement includes staying at local lodges, enjoying nutritious meals, and having access to clean and comfortable beds throughout your journey. This setup enables you to carry lighter baggage, trek at your preferred pace, and savor the Everest panorama at your own convenience. Additionally, it promotes eco-friendly trekking, fostering closer interactions between trekkers and the local Sherpa community.

Many tea houses along the Gokyo Valley trail provide squat toilet facilities, but newer lodges now offer western-style toilets. Flush toilets are also becoming more common, catering to the growing number of foreign mountaineers each year. It is advisable to bring your own toilet paper and necessary toiletries. Hot shower facilities are accessible until Gorakshep, typically in the form of bucket showers – ordinary buckets with taps filled with hot water placed in designated shower rooms. The cost of a hot shower ranges from US$ 4 to 15 per use, increasing with the elevation. Attached bathrooms and toilets are not standard unless you opt for a luxury lodge during the Gokyo Valley Trek.

The choice of attire for the Gokyo Valley Trek is personal, but we recommend wearing warm clothing. It would be beneficial to have a down jacket, thermal tops and bottoms, comfortable trekking pants, t-shirts, fleece, a windproof jacket, a hat, scarf, and gloves. These items can be easily found in various trekking shops in the Thamel area of Kathmandu, available in both local and branded stores. If needed, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking can also provide assistance and accompany you during the trek.

Our schedule has been specifically designed to minimize the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) as we ascend to higher altitudes. Typically, altitude sickness becomes a concern at elevations of 3,600 meters and above. The trek will proceed at a deliberately slow and gradual pace to facilitate acclimatization. It is essential to abstain from caffeine, alcohol, and smoking. Hydration is crucial, so aim to consume a minimum of 4 liters of water daily. Take it slow during the trek and adhere to the recommended acclimatization days. If any symptoms arise, consider continuing with Diamox. Additionally, incorporating Garlic Soup into your diet is beneficial. In elevated areas, the air contains less oxygen, especially when traversing high passes. Our knowledgeable guides will provide guidance on preventing AMS and addressing it if necessary.

Ensure that you possess both medical and evacuation insurance prior to embarking on the Gokyo Valley Trek in Nepal. Exercise caution when selecting a policy for travel to a Himalayan destination like Nepal, as certain insurance companies may have specific provisions for adventure travel. If you find yourself uncertain about insurance matters, kindly notify us, and we will assist you. It is generally advisable to arrange your insurance in your home country before embarking on your journey.

The Himalayan Trek offers one porter for every two trekkers, with each porter assigned to carry a maximum of 20 kgs of luggage (not exceeding 10 kgs per trekker). It's important to ensure that your porters are not burdened with excessive weight, as they bear not only your equipment but also contribute to uplifting your spirits, and your expressions of love, affection, and generosity can serve as motivation for them to exert extra effort in guiding you to your destination. Please note that the weight limit for flights to the Everest region, particularly to Lukla, is set at 10 kgs. Any excess baggage beyond this limit incurs an additional charge per kilogram. The Himalayan Trek covers the cost of up to 5 kgs of extra baggage, allowing you a total of 15 kgs, including your handbag.

Certainly, the majority of guesthouses provide Wi-Fi access for a nominal fee of $5 per day.

ATM services are available only in Namche Bazaar and Lukla. However, these facilities might encounter issues or run out of cash. It is recommended to carry a small amount of money with you for buying snacks and other essentials during your trek.

The majority of tea houses and lodges are equipped with electricity, allowing you to recharge your iPod or camera batteries. It's important to be aware that these facilities may charge an additional fee for this service, ranging from 1 to 3 USD per hour.