The Gokyo valley trek is one of the best alternatives for the Everest Base Camp trek in the Khumbu region. It is a perfect trek that explores the iconic Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,290 ft) and later follows a less crowded, serene route from here to Gokyo Lakes (4,700 m to 5,000 m). The Gokyo valley trek 12 days is an adventurous journey in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal, perfect for all ages of trekkers.
Trekking through lush foothills, you will traverse the Ngozumpa glacier moraines to reach the Gokyo valley. On this 12 days adventurous journey, you will leave the bustle of the city and rejuvenate in the Himalayas. The journey will challenge your body and mind and reward you with breathtaking vistas.
*Note: Gokyo valley trek is also known as the Gokyo Ri trek and Gokyo Lakes trek, so please do not get confused.
What to expect during the Gokyo valley trek?
Like any other trek in the Everest region, you will get to witness stunning mountain views of Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), Cho Oyu (8,188 m/26,864 ft), Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), etc, during Gokyo valley trekking. The vegetation and landscapes vary as the elevation changes.
The Gokyo valley trek also offers a close insight into the daily life and cultural heritage of the locals of the Khumbu region, including the famous Sherpa community. You will visit monasteries and stupas on the way. Enjoy fresh mountain air and a tranquil environment.
*Note:Gokyo Ri trek without a guide will make the journey challenging for you.
The locals are friendly and welcoming. You may share the trail with occasional yaks and mules herds too. Reaching the Gokyo Lakes is a huge achievement. The sheer beauty of the lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains will take your breath away. Not only that, the mountain panorama from Gokyo Ri (5,400 m/17,814ft) is equally mesmerizing.
Gokyo valley trek itinerary in summary
The Gokyo valley trek starts with a thrilling flight to Lukla airport (2,846 m/9,337 ft). From here, you will trek to Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft) to spend the first night. The trail then continues to Monjo (2,835 m/9,301 ft) the next day, crossing the long Hillary suspension bridge on the way. Register the trek permits at the police checkpoint before you enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
The trail goes through lush magnolia and rhododendron forests, crossing many suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi river to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,290 ft). Here, you will spend two nights and go on an acclimatization hike to the Hotel Everest View (3,962 m/13,000 ft). From Namche Bazaar, the trail leaves the mainstream EBC route and moves to Dole (4,200 m/13,270 ft), crossing Mong La pass (3,957 m/12,982 ft).
From Dole, you will trek following a steep and rocky route to Lapahrma. The trail goes past many shrines and prayer flags. You will reach Machhermo (4,470 m/14,450 ft), passing by Luja village. From Machhermo, continue trekking to Phanga, a landslide area, and cross an iron bridge. Further, you will come across a lake called Longpongo at 4,960 meters (16,273 ft).
Traversing the Ngozumpa Glacier moraines, you will pass by the first and second Gokyo lakes and walk up to the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. Gokyo village is located near the third Gokyo lake. You will spend two nights in Gokyo village (4,790 m/15,584 ft) as well. During your time here, you will explore Gokyo Ri and the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes.
The fourth and fifth Gokyo lakes are located close to the base camp of Mt. Cho Oyu. It is the sixth tallest mountain in the world. After your time in the Gokyo village, you will return back to Lukla following the same trail and fly back to Kathmandu.
Is Gokyo valley right for you?
If you are looking for something new, something different in the Khumbu region, then yes, Gokyo valley trek is right for you. The best thing about the Gokyo valley trek package is it doesn't demand a long holiday. In less than two weeks, you can complete the journey and return to your home. So, ideal for a short family holiday in Nepal.
Likewise, the Gokyo valley trek price is also not expensive. You can do this trek for under USD 1,500 per person. Our Gokyo valley trek cost covers your domestic transportation, a two-night stay in Kathmandu with breakfast, permits, accommodation and meals during the trek, and expenses of guides and porters.
Our package cost covers all the major expenses, giving you a high value for your money. On top of that, you will get the below perks by joining Gokyo valley trek 2024/2025 with us:
- Trek with a friendly and professional guide and porter
- Flexible itinerary that you can customize anytime
- Top-notch service
- 24/7 support
- Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners and airport transfers as per the itinerary
- No hidden cost or policy
