Gokyo Valley is one of the most scenic valleys in the SoluKhumbu District in the Himalaya Mountains. It offers some fantastic views over the Eastern Himalayas and of several 8000 meters plus peaks, such as Mt.Everest (8,848m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m) and. Gokyo Ri (5,357m).
This is home to the Sherpa people with their rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, architecture, and traditions. Buddhist monasteries, chortens, Mani walls are present on the trek highlighting their devout beliefs. On this trek, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife: musk deer, Himalayan Thar, the colorful pheasant (Nepal’s national bird), and even the very secretive snow leopard. This is also believed to be home to the legendary Yeti who is said to inhabit the Khumbu Valley. Gokyo Valley is located in the west of the Khumbu region. This trek is packed with remarkable features, such as the famous Ngozumpa Glacier and the authentic Sherpa village of Gokyo (4750m) with its huge herds of Yak seen grazing on the hillsides. You will also visit the highest lakes in the world, the Gokyo Lakes at an altitude of 4,700 to 5,000 meters.
The Gokyo Valley trek starts and ends in Kathmandu, and begins with a scenic 40 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla airport where our trek begins. From Lukla we tie up our boot-laces and follow the trail to Phakding passing Mani stones (stones inscribed in Buddhist Sanskrit mantras). Our next destination is Namche Bazaar, a thriving town that looks down over the valley and up to the surrounding snow-covered Himalayan peaks. The Gokyo trail follows the same route of those who are making their way to Everest Base Camp. The trail ascends to Kenjoma and the Dudh Koshi River whose source is at Gokyo Lake and glacier. We will also trek up to Gokyo Ri (5,483m) and then return to Namche Bazaar and to Lukla for our return flight back to Kathmandu.
A Sherpa Teams representative will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Thamel by private vehicle. Once you are checked in we will brief you on all aspects of the trek and answer any questions you may have concerning the trek. You will also be provided with a duffel bag and a sleeping bag. At this briefing, you will need to have your passport, three passport size photos and a copy of your travel insurance policy. This is also the time to clear up the balance owing for the trek. You can spend some time wandering around the winding and narrow streets of Thamel and maybe buy some things you need for the trek.
Today is a day of guided sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. We will visit Pashupatinath, regarded as the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and a place where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Tibetan Buddhist temple also known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). From Swayambhunath we head to the celebrated Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that is located opposite the old royal palace. Back at your hotel, you will have time to stroll around the narrow and winding streets of Thamel and relax in one of the many cafes or bars.
This morning we have a 30 minute early morning fight from Kathmandu domestic airport at Lukla. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport we will prepare our packs for the trek. We then head out on the trail and descend down to the Dudh Kosi River where we join with the trail that leads to Namche Bazaar. The trek today is quite easy and not too physically demanding. We then pass through the small village of Ghat (2,550m) and then continue until we reach Phakding where we will stay overnight.
This morning we head to Namche Bazaar (3440m) the largest Sherpa village in Nepal. Prior to arriving at Namche Bazaar we pass through several small villages, such as Jorsale (2804m) and Monjo (2835m). Monjo is located just north of Phakding and is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. We will stay overnight in a guesthouse.
Today is spent acclimatizing before heading to higher altitudes. Altitude sickness can be minimized by stopping at lower altitudes and staying active - recommended by health professionals. We will take a short trek to a local museum that houses Sherpa artifacts and other cultural items, and also climb up to Syangboche Airport near the Everest View Hotel where the views of the Himalayas and Khumbu peaks will leave you stunned.
A short 90-minute trek takes us to a junction on the trail, with one trail heading to Everest Base Camp, and the other heading to Mung Danda, a well-known viewpoint situated at the top of a hill from where you have some good views of various snow-covered mountains. From here we head down a steep trail and pass through birch and rhododendron forests until we reach Dole where we will stay in a guesthouse overnight.
On the trail today the terrain changes as we head to higher altitudes. For about three to four hours we trek through the valley where the vegetation is more scrubby and sparse. We pass through several small settlements and villages on the on the trail heading to Machhermo. This is an area is where the villagers graze their yak in these alpine pastures during the summer months. We will stay here overnight at a guest house.
Today we climb higher to Gokyo Village (4,790m). The trail to Gokyo is lovely and initially takes us to Pangka Village at which point we descend to a river that has its origin at the Ngozumpa Glacier. We then head higher from the river and cross a rugged stony area next to the glacier and come to the first of the holy lakes, and then one more lake and cross the glacier to Cho La Pass (5420m). The third lake is Dudh Pokhari which has Gokyo Village situated on the eastern side of the lake. We will stay here overnight at a guest house.
Today we head to the high altitude 5463m high Mt. Gokyo Ri from where we can see Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu and other snow-covered mountains. We will head to the fifth Lake from where we have some even more spectacular mountain views. We will stay overnight at Dole.
The trail today takes us past the Sherpa town of Khumjung as we leave the mountains behind us. We will stay overnight at Namche Bazaar.
The final day on the trail takes us back to our starting point at Lukla. We can relax and look back on this satisfying and enjoyable trek among the Himalayan Mountains. With spare time on our hands we can explore the town and catch up on emails and sort our photos. Tonight we will stay at a guest house.
Our early morning flight will take us back to Kathmandu on a 30 to 35 minute flight. On our way back to Kathmandu you may wish to consider other Nepal adventures, such as Chitwan National Park and its wildlife, rafting, or a guided tour of Kathmandu Valley. Upon arrival at Kathmandu we will take you back to your hotels in Thamel.
Today is your last day in Nepal and Sherpa Teams will take you to the airport at least three hours prior to your scheduled departure time. On your flight home, you can start planning your next adventure in Nepal.
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom - until Namche which is a thriving town seeing many more tourists and a greater range of accommodation. It should be noted that at higher elevations the quality of accommodation may not be as good, with more basic rooms with the bare necessities.
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Khumbu region is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpas started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We do not have to use public transportation or local buses during the trek. Our only flights are from Kathmandu to Lukla and return.
EBC is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek.The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
The Gokyo Valley Trek is usually done in autumn (Sept. to November) and spring (March to May) when you are much more likely to get to have crystal clear views of the mountains and can also enjoy the lush vegetation in the lower regions of the trail - particularly during spring.
Fill out the form below and a Travel Expert will reach out to create your perfect tour.
Yes, you can. No matter who you are, as long as you are reasonably fit, can walk for 5-6 hours a day and trek/hike a few uphills, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Trekking team will support you to the fullest to transform your dream of standing at Gokyo Valley/Gokyo Ri into reality
The month of March to May in Spring and September to December in autumn seasons are considered the best for the Gokyo valleyTrek as the weather conditions become favorable during this time, providing you with good visibility and a suitable atmosphere for Gokyo Valley trekking.
No, there is no age limit for the trek to Gokyo Valley but, you need to be in good physical shape and have a positive attitude. We also suggest you to prior to the excursion though we suggest you to please see your doctor and obtain necessary permission and advice, as well as medications for traveling in extreme altitude prior to the excursion.
During trekking, you will be served meals in the teahouses. Typical meals are noodles, rice, pasta or potato dishes along with vegetables and egg/chicken/meat dishes. Other items mostly served as breakfasts include Tibetan, egg, pancake, bread, porridge, muesli, and toasts with peanut butter and hone
A teahouse trekking accommodation will be made for you for the Gokyo Valley trekking whereby you will be able to stay at tea house(Local lodge) and have wholesome food and net and clean comfortable bed throughout your trekking journey. This form of arrangement also allows you to carry less baggage; you can trek at your own pace and enjoy the Everest panorama on your own schedule. It is also an eco-friendly way of trekking whereby trekkers can have more contact with the local's sherpa peoples.
Most of the teahouses on the Gokyo Valley trail have squat toilet facilities but recently built lodges have western-style toilets as well. Nowadays, flush toilets are also being introduced with a number of increasing foreign mountaineers each year. It is highly recommended to carry your own toilet paper and other required toiletries. Hot shower facilities are available till Gorakshep. The most common type is a bucket shower, usual buckets with tap filled with hot water and placed in a shower room. Hot shower costs from US$ 4 to 15 peruse and the price increases along with the elevation. Attached bathrooms and toilets are not available unless you book for a luxury lodge during the Gokyo Valley trek.
What you want to wear depends on you but we suggest you wear warm clothes during the Gokyo Valley trekking. A down jacket, thermal longs and top, comfortable trekking trousers, t-shirts, fleece, windproof jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves might be useful. There are numerous trekking shops in the Thamel area of Kathmandu where you can get all of these items in both local and branded stores alike. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking may also accompany and assist you if required.
During the Gokyo Valley trekking, you will be on a long journey for which you will need two bags to keep your belongings. A rucksack/duffle bag and a day bag for personal items. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide you with a duffle bag (which is need to refund after the trek) that you can use throughout your entire journey and even afterward. These bags are durable and hence perfect for any kind of trekking journey. While the duffle bag will be carried by the potters, you will have to carry a day bag on your own. A day bag is a small backpack that has enough room for everything you will need on a day hike such as lunch, water, extra clothing and perhaps a few personnel items like camera, battery chargers, etc.
If possible, we suggest you bring your own equipment. However, sleeping bags and down jackets will be provided to you by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking. With regards to trekking poles, if you are used to walking with it then take them with you, as you will probably find them useful especially on the way down. They are not essential though and the walk is manageable without them. It is mostly a personal preference. If you prefer to take the trekking poles with you on the trekking then you can either bring your own pole or buy it from numerous options available in Kathmandu itself.
Yes, if you have a bag of extra clothing for when you return from the trekking, you will be able to store it safely in Kathmandu Sherpa Expedition and Trekking office. The storage facility is provided by most hotels and lodges in Kathmandu or you can also store it in our office for the duration of the trekking.
Our itinerary has been specially tailored to prevent any kind of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) while moving up to higher altitudes. Normally, altitude sickness starts from 3,600 meters and above. You will be trekking at a relatively slow and gradual pace as part of the acclimatization process. Cut off caffeinated, alcoholic and smoking items. Drink at least 4 liters of water a day. Trek slow. Don't skip the acclimatization days. Better to continue with Diamox (if any symptoms show up). Drink Garlic Soup. In the higher elevation, there is less oxygen in the air and this is more so while crossing high passes. Our expert guides will advise you on how to avoid AMS and treat it when/ if required.
Make sure to have both medical and evacuation insurance before coming to Nepal for Gokyo Valley trekking. You should be careful in choosing a policy while traveling to a Himalayan country like Nepal as some insurance companies may make special exceptions for adventure travel. If you are confused about the insurance, please inform us and we will help you. It is usually better to arrange your insurance in your country before travel.
The trekking will be 5-7 hours a day depending upon the landscape and destination.
It takes 4 to 8 days to reach Gokyo Lake depending upon the mode of transportation and packages of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking offers.
We at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team always have the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of our valued customers as our foremost priority at all times, and we assure you a wonderful and unforgettable time with us in our beautiful country. Sherpa team members of Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will be carrying all the necessary gear, equipment, and first aid kits and they have extensive first aid training. If a trekker falls sick on high altitude, the leader will decide whether to continue the trek. In case of emergency, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking have a rescue helicopter to bring you back from the higher elevation. Moreover, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking also provides oximeter to monitor the oxygen level at high altitude and offers regular health check-up facilities.
You can either trek on foot or by a helicopter. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking offer exciting and reasonable Helicopter trek to Everest Base Camp for 5 days and 10 days. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking can also customize your tour as per your necessity.
The flights are usually regular between September and May. But due to high altitude, bad weather and unforeseen technical issues, you may experience a delay or cancellation of the flight. On the occurrence of such events, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking charter a helicopter to make sure you are on the safe schedule either for a trek or for your flight back home which would cost extra charge as an unexpected event. However, if the visibility is less than 1,500 meters, it is unable to operate helicopter facilities and Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will reschedule the flight.
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will provide one porter for two trekkers to carry 20 kgs of luggage (maximum 10 kg for each trekker). Please be sure your porters are not overloaded because they do not carry only your equipment but also lift your spirit to reach new heights, and your love, affection, and generosity can be the reason for them to work hard to take you to your destination. However, the weight limit on flights to the Everest region, basically to Lukla is a total of 10 kgs and you need to pay an extra amount per kg for the excess baggage. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking pays up to 5 kgs of extra baggage making your total to 15 kgs with your hand bag.
Garlic soup is a must while trekking. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking recommend trekkers to drink green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon ginger tea and drink at least 2-4 liters of water a day. However, it is better to avoid alcohol and alcoholic beverages, caffeinated items, and hot-chocolates at high altitude
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Trekking won’t recommend non-veg items because the meat in such places may not hygienic and healthy. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking also encourage to avoid dairy and cheesy items and strongly suggest not to consume them during the trek. So, our packages are suitable for both vegan and vegetarians.
Your guide and porters are a big reason why you got a chance to feel something very few can have. Apart from guiding and carrying your necessities and being mindful of your safety, they want to see you happily succeeded more than anyone like family and help you successfully complete the trek safely. So, your tips reflect gratitude towards them. So, tipping is a recommended culture for porters and guide in Nepal as a gesture of thankfulness.
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will introduce dozens of shops selling knock-off gear in Kathmandu. You can also barter those gears at the knock-off places but be sure you keep the receipt safely. Moreover, you can rent the needed gears if you do not want to buy them.
Yes, most guesthouses offer Wi-Fi, for a small charge. it cost USD$5 per day.
ATM services are available only in Namche Bazaar and Lukla. However, the services might not work or run out of cash. Therefore, we suggest you carry a small amount of money to buy snacks, etc during the trekking.
Most of the tea houses/ lodges have electricity whereby you will be able to charge your iPod or camera batteries. Please note that lodges/tea houses will charge you some extra money for the services. The fee may vary from 1 USD to 3 USD per hour.
100%
Based On 19 Reviews
Sherpa Expedition provided an outstanding experience during our Gokyo Valley trek. The team’s expert guidance and meticulous planning ensured a smooth and enjoyable journey. They were always ready to assist and offer valuable insights into the local culture and environment. The trek was filled with breathtaking scenery, with the Gokyo Lakes standing out as a highlight. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, making the trek both informative and fun. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to delivering a top-notch adventure was evident throughout the trip.
Our Gokyo Valley trek with Sherpa Expedition was an incredible adventure. The team’s professionalism and attention to detail made the trek seamless and stress-free. They handled all aspects of the trek with expertise, from accommodation to safety measures. The natural beauty of Gokyo Valley was awe-inspiring, and the guides provided fascinating information about the area. Their support and enthusiasm made the trek enjoyable and memorable. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience was evident at every turn. Highly recommended for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
My trek through Gokyo Valley with Sherpa Expedition was truly unforgettable. The team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and enthusiasm, enhancing the overall experience. Their knowledge of the terrain and local culture was impressive, providing a deeper understanding of the region. The trek offered unparalleled views of the Gokyo Lakes and surrounding peaks, making every step worthwhile. Sherpa Expedition’s guides were supportive and attentive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable adventure. This trek is a must for anyone seeking a memorable Himalayan experience, and Sherpa Expedition made it exceptional.
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
19
0
0
0
0
People Considering This Package Right Now Check availability
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked*
Your email address is required for downloading package details.*
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is one of the pioneers of Trekking, tour and expedition in Nepal which was established on January 07, 1977, with a motto: ‘Enhancing Tourism possibilities across the Globe’. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is proud to be recognized as the fifth Trekking and Adventure company authorized by the Tourism Board of Nepal.
© Copyright Sherpa Expedition And Trekking. All rights reserved.
Made with in Nepal by TECH 101