Gokyo Valley Trek

Q: How difficult is the Gokyo Valley Trek?

The Gokyo Valley Trek is considered moderate to challenging. Trekkers should have good fitness and be comfortable walking 5–7 hours daily on hilly and high-altitude terrain. Proper acclimatization days are included to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Q: What is the best time to do the Gokyo Valley Trek in Nepal?

The best time for the Gokyo Valley Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the mountain views are spectacular.

Q: Do I need permits for the Gokyo Valley Trek?

Yes. Trekkers need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are included in the trek package arranged by your trekking company.

The Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the most beautiful and rewarding journeys in the Everest region of Nepal. This adventure takes you through the heart of the Khumbu Valley, following ancient Sherpa trails, glacial rivers, and charming mountain villages before reaching the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) — one of the best viewpoints for Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.

Unlike the crowded Everest Base Camp trail, Gokyo Valley Trek offers a quieter and more peaceful Himalayan experience. You’ll walk through rhododendron and pine forests, cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, and pass through vibrant Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo. The turquoise waters of Gokyo’s six sacred lakes shimmer under the snow-clad peaks, creating an unforgettable sight.

The highlight of this trek is the early morning climb to Gokyo Ri, where you’ll witness one of the world’s most stunning panoramas — a 360-degree view of the Himalayas, including the world’s highest peaks and the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier.

Perfect for trekkers seeking natural beauty, cultural encounters, and fewer crowds, the Gokyo Valley Trek is a dream destination that blends adventure and serenity in equal measure. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a passionate traveler, this trek promises views and memories that last a lifetime.

Accomodation
Hotel/Tea houses.
Best Season
March–May and September–November
Maximum Altitude
5,357 meters (Gokyo Ri)
Transportation
Fly/Car/Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Gokyo Valley Trek is a peaceful and scenic alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek. This journey takes you through the Khumbu region’s heart, past Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and the shimmering turquoise Gokyo Lakes. Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Ideal for trekkers seeking fewer crowds, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, the Gokyo Valley Trek offers one of Nepal’s most breathtaking Himalayan experiences.

Trip Highlights

Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla with breathtaking Himalayan views.
Trek through beautiful Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo.
Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a sacred series of turquoise glacial lakes.
Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Experience rich Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, and warm Himalayan hospitality.
Witness the magnificent Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.
Enjoy peaceful trails with fewer crowds than the classic Everest Base Camp route.
Discover the natural and spiritual beauty of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel or relaxing after your journey. In the evening, attend a short trek briefing and welcome dinner in Kathmandu.

Day 02 :

Fly to Lukla (2,840 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,651 m) – 3 to 4 Hours

Take an early morning scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. After meeting the trekking crew, start your first walk along the Dudh Koshi River, passing through pine forests, suspension bridges, and Sherpa villages before reaching Phakding for an overnight stay.

Day 03 :

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – 5 to 6 Hours

Today’s trek takes you across several suspension bridges draped with prayer flags. Enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and ascend gradually to Namche Bazaar — the bustling Sherpa capital and gateway to the Everest and Gokyo regions.

Day 04 :

Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Spend the day adjusting to the altitude. Take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Explore Namche’s markets, local museums, and cafes, or visit nearby traditional Sherpa villages.

Day 05 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (3,680 m) – 6 Hours

The trail to Dole separates from the classic Everest Base Camp route and leads into the quieter Gokyo Valley. Trek through rhododendron forests and small settlements like Mong La and Phortse Tenga while enjoying scenic views of snow-capped peaks.

Day 06 :

Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470 m) – 4 to 5 Hours

The trail ascends gently through juniper forests and alpine meadows. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more open and dramatic. Machhermo offers stunning views of Cho Oyu and other Himalayan peaks, along with a tranquil setting for overnight rest.

Day 07 :

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790 m) – 4 Hours

Continue your journey toward Gokyo, passing several small lakes before reaching the breathtaking turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes. Rest by the third lake (Dudh Pokhari) and take in the spectacular backdrop of the Ngozumpa Glacier — Nepal’s largest glacier.

Day 08 :

Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) and Return to Gokyo – 4 Hours

An early morning climb to Gokyo Ri rewards you with one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas — encompassing four 8,000-meter giants: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After capturing unforgettable moments, descend back to Gokyo for rest and exploration.

Day 09 :

Trek from Gokyo to Machhermo or Dole – 5 to 6 Hours

Begin your descent along the same scenic route, offering new perspectives of the valley and mountain vistas. Depending on pace and preference, you’ll stay overnight at either Machhermo or Dole.

Day 10 :

Trek from Dole/Machhermo to Namche Bazaar – 5 to 6 Hours

Continue descending through rhododendron and pine forests. Arrive back at Namche Bazaar, where you can enjoy hot showers, good food, and a comfortable night’s rest surrounded by Himalayan charm.

Day 11 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860 m) – 6 to 7 Hours

Today marks the final trekking day. Retrace your steps along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges and traditional villages before reaching Lukla. Celebrate the completion of your Gokyo Valley adventure with your trekking team.

Day 12 :

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying one last look at the Himalayan peaks from the air. Transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing, shopping, or exploring the cultural attractions of the city.

Day 13 :

Departure from Kathmandu

Your Gokyo Valley Trek adventure ends today. After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight home or onward destination, carrying unforgettable memories of the Everest region.

FAQs

Expand all

What is the Gokyo Valley Trek and where is it located?

The Gokyo Valley Trek is a stunning Himalayan journey in the Everest region of Nepal. It takes trekkers to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes and the panoramic viewpoint of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), offering breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

How difficult is the Gokyo Valley Trek?

The Gokyo Valley Trek is considered moderate to challenging. Trekkers should have good fitness and be comfortable walking 5–7 hours daily on hilly and high-altitude terrain. Proper acclimatization days are included to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

What is the best time to do the Gokyo Valley Trek in Nepal?

The best time for the Gokyo Valley Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the mountain views are spectacular.

Do I need permits for the Gokyo Valley Trek?

Yes. Trekkers need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are included in the trek package arranged by your trekking company.

What makes the Gokyo Valley Trek special compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Unlike the crowded Everest Base Camp trail, the Gokyo Valley Trek offers a peaceful route, less traffic, and unique highlights like the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, and the panoramic Gokyo Ri viewpoint with Everest in full view. It’s ideal for trekkers seeking natural beauty and tranquility in the Himalayas.

Gokyo Valley Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

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Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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