What is the Gokyo Valley trek?

The Gokyo Valley trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the stunning Gokyo Valley, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and picturesque landscapes. It is an alternative trek to the Everest Base Camp trek and is less crowded, making it a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a more peaceful trekking experience.

Where is Gokyo Valley located in Nepal?

Gokyo Valley is located in the Sagarmatha National Park, in the SolKhumbu District of eastern Nepal. The trek starts and ends in Lukla, a small town with an airport that serves as the gateway to the Everest region.

How long does the Gokyo Valley trek take to complete?

The Gokyo Valley trek typically takes about 12 to 14 days to complete, depending on the chosen itinerary, trekker's pace, and acclimatization days.

What is the best time to do the Gokyo Valley trek?

The best time to do the Gokyo Valley trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and good visibility, making the trekking experience more enjoyable.

What permits are required for the trek?

Trekkers will need two permits for the Gokyo Valley trek: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or in Lukla before starting the trek.

Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Gokyo Valley trek?

While hiring a guide is not mandatory, it is recommended, especially for less experienced trekkers. An experienced guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture, ensure your safety, and navigate the trekking route effectively.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The Gokyo Valley trek is considered moderately difficult. It involves walking on rugged terrain and includes some steep ascents and descents. Prior trekking experience and a reasonable level of fitness are beneficial, but the trek is achievable for most people with proper preparation.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the Gokyo Valley trek?

The highest point of the Gokyo Valley trek is Gokyo Ri, which stands at an altitude of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). Climbing Gokyo Ri is an optional side trip that offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest.

Are there any age restrictions for the trek?

There are no specific age restrictions for the Gokyo Valley trek. However, it is essential to consider individual fitness levels and consult with a doctor before embarking on the trek, especially for elderly or very young trekkers.

How difficult is the 15 Everest Gokyo Valley trekking?

Compared to the other Everest Base Camp trekking routes the 15 Days Everest Gokyo Valley Trekking tour is the easiest. Trekking Planner Nepal has the best trek itinerary that allows adventurers to enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Everest and other high Himalayan peaks. The only challenging factor on this trek is the number of walking days on uneven terrains for several hours. Besides that the trek is moderately pleasant and comfortable to walk at a gradual pace.

How do I get to the starting point of the trek?

The Gokyo Valley trek starts from Lukla. To reach Lukla, you can take a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport (Tenzing-Hillary Airport). Flights are often subject to weather conditions, so it's advisable to keep some buffer days in your itinerary in case of flight delays.

What is the best time to do the 15 days Everest Gokyo Valley Trek?

The best season to attempt the Gokyo Valley Trek is in the pre-monsoon season i.e. from March to May and post-monsoon season i.e. from late September to December. The days will be mostly warm while it gets cold between sunset and sunrise. It is also possible to do this trek in February and early September but the trek is best preferred during the pleasant months.

What type of accommodation is available along the trekking route?

Along the Gokyo Valley trek, you'll find teahouses and lodges providing basic accommodation and meals for trekkers. These lodges offer twin-sharing rooms with beds and blankets. The facilities may vary, but you can expect simple and comfortable accommodation.

Can I see Mount Everest from the Gokyo Valley trekking region?

Yes! The southwest face of Mount Everest is best seen from here. The sightings of Mount Everest are splendid. You get to see the best panoramic view of the whole Everest Region from Gokyo Ri.

Is it possible to camp during the trek?

Camping is not very common on the Gokyo Valley trek since teahouses and lodges are readily available along the route. However, if you prefer camping, it can be arranged with the help of a trekking agency.

Do I need any kind of trekking experience to complete the Everest Gokyo Valley Trekking ?

It is good to have some kind of trekking experience though not compulsory. Besides, many novice trekkers have successfully managed to do it with ease. The only thing required is good fitness, self-motivation and strong passion to do the Gokyo Valley trek.

What should I pack for the Gokyo Valley trek?

Some essential items to pack for the Gokyo Valley trek include trekking boots, warm clothing (including down jacket and thermal layers), a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a backpack, a first aid kit, and personal toiletries. It's important to pack light but adequately for changing weather conditions.

If my Everest Gokyo Valley Trip gets cancelled do I get my refund?

Trekking Planner Nepal always allows and has a flexible trekking approach when it comes to cancellation or transfer of your deposit to anyone or any other trip. If you wish to cancel your booked trips, some cancellation charges are applied and you can get it done.

Are there any ATMs on the trekking route?

There are no ATMs beyond Lukla Namche and Dingboche on the trekking route. It's recommended to carry enough Nepalese rupees to cover your expenses during the trek. Some teahouses may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand.

How is the accommodation like at the Everest Gokyo Valley Trek?

Taking your comfort factor into account, we make sure to book the best lodge with two beds in each room and western toilet facilities wherever available. Normally, the beds are clean and comfortable with an electric blanket if available and an attached bathroom for most nights.

Is it possible to charge electronic devices during the trek?

Most teahouses and lodges offer charging facilities for electronic devices such as cameras and phones. However, charging may come with an extra cost, so it's a good idea to carry spare batteries or power banks as a backup.

What is the food like during the Gokyo Valley Trekking Trip?

You will get to enjoy 3 hearty meals each day. Generally, you will have your breakfast and dinner at the same lodge you will be staying at. Lunch will be provided at tea houses or small restaurants along the trail. The meals contain fresh fruits and organic ingredients which have the right balance to keep you going for the entire trekking journey.

Are there any teahouses or lodges with Wi-Fi along the route?

Yes, some teahouses and lodges along the Gokyo Valley trek offer Wi-Fi services for a fee. However, the internet connection may be slow and unreliable due to the remote location.

How do I prevent myself from getting Altitude Sickness?

There is every chance of getting altitude sickness but if a few things are kept in mind aided by the right kind of planning it can be easily avoided. The key to it is to make a slow ascend with proper rest and acclimatization. You need to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, avoid alcohol and cigarettes, and be mantelly strong.

What kind of food is available during the trek?

Teahouses and lodges on the trekking route offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes (like dal bhat), pasta, noodles, soups, and some western food options. The food is generally simple but nourishing to keep trekkers energized.

Is oxygen required for doing this trek?

No, oxygen is not required for the trek as we get enough time for acclimatization. In addition, we provide Diamox, a medication that suppresses altitude sickness symptoms. In extreme cases if you do get severe altitude sickness, then we do descend to a lower altitude instantly. But we have oxygen for emergency.

Is it safe to drink tap water during the trek?

It is not safe to drink tap water during the trek. It is recommended to drink boiled or purified water. You can either buy bottled water or use water purification tablets or filters to treat the water from natural sources.

Do I need crampons for doing the Everest Gokyo Valley Trek?

No crampons are not required for this trek if you are trekking during the preferred seasons. But if the trek falls in the mid-winter or monsoon season then crampons may be required. It is advisable to have crampons handy as you never know what kind of situations it might be.

Are there any medical facilities available along the trekking route?

The medical facilities are limited along the Gokyo Valley trek route. Some larger villages have basic medical clinics, but for serious medical issues, trekkers are usually evacuated by helicopter to Kathmandu or Lukla for proper treatment.

If there is an emergency situation how is it dealt with?

Trekking Planner has an able team of trekking leaders and mountain crew who are highly skillful in tackling kind of emergencies if it occurs. First thing If you feel sick with the altitude, let your leader know about it . With his assessment and experience, he can sense the intensity of the seriousness and if need be he will take the necessary steps. He will either bring you down to a lower elevation or rescue you using a helicopter. If the helicopter is unable to fly due to any reasons, we will use our local contacts to coordinate and make use of alternative evacuation procedures. It involves carrying you to the nearest health post or a safe helicopter landing area.

What are the risks of altitude sickness during the Gokyo Valley trek?

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a concern on the Gokyo Valley trek due to the high altitudes. It's essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually to minimize the risk of AMS.

How can I acclimatize properly during the trek?

Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. It's recommended to take rest days at specific points during the trek to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitudes. Hydration and avoiding alcohol and strenuous activity can also help with acclimatization.

Are there any side trips or excursions to do along the Gokyo Valley trek?

Yes, one of the main side trips during the Gokyo Valley trek is the ascent of Gokyo Ri, which offers breathtaking views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, among other peaks. Additionally, trekkers can visit the Gokyo Lakes, Thonak Cho and Ngozumpa Cho, which are among the highest freshwater lakes in the world.

Gokyo Valley Trekking -15 Days 2025/26

Trip Introduction: Gokyo Valley Trekking 2025/2026

Over the years the Gokyo Valley Trekking has been a center of trek adventure. It is a fabulous opportunity to connect with an emerald lake called Gokyo. The Gokyo Lake is the only known lake in the world formed by the sequence of six alpine lakes. This oligotrophic lake glorifies the Gokyo Valley with its sheer presence. Each year thousands of adventure seekers throng in huge numbers to unveil nature's best-kept secrets at Gokyo. The Gokyo trekking trail is one of the most beautiful trail in the Khumbu region of Nepal.

Gokyo Valley Trekking Altitude and Distance Coverage

Day	Activity	Altitude (m/ft)	Distance (km/miles)	Duration (hours)	Elevation Gain (m/ft)	Elevation Loss (m/ft)
1	Arrival in Kathmandu	1,350 m / 4,430 ft	-	-	-	-
2	Full day in Kathmandu	1,350 m / 4,430 ft	-	-	-	-
3	Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding	2,860 m / 9,383 ft → 2,610 m / 8,563 ft	7.5 km / 4.6 miles	3-4 hrs	+230 m / 755 ft	-278 m / 912 ft
4	Trek to Namche Bazaar	3,440 m / 11,287 ft	12 km / 7.45 miles	5-6 hrs	+830 m / 2,723 ft	-170 m / 558 ft
5	Rest/acclimatization day at Namche, hike to Everest View Hotel	3,880 m / 12,730 ft	3.5 km / 2.2 miles (round trip)	3 hrs	+440 m / 1,444 ft	-440 m / 1,444 ft
6	Trek to Phortse Tanga	3,690 m / 12,106 ft	6 km / 3.7 miles	3-4 hrs	+250 m / 820 ft	-550 m / 1,804 ft
7	Trek to Dole	4,200 m / 13,780 ft	6 km / 3.7 miles	3-4 hrs	+510 m / 1,673 ft	-0 m / 0 ft
8	Trek to Machermo	4,470 m / 14,665 ft	5 km / 3.1 miles	4-5 hrs	+270 m / 885 ft	-0 m / 0 ft
9	Trek to Gokyo	4,790 m / 15,715 ft	6 km / 3.7 miles	4-5 hrs	+320 m / 1,050 ft	-0 m / 0 ft
10	Full day in Gokyo	4,790 m / 15,715 ft	-	-	-	-
11	Trek to Dole	4,200 m / 13,780 ft	11 km / 6.8 miles	5-6 hrs	-590 m / 1,935 ft	-
12	Trek to Namche Bazaar	3,440 m / 11,287 ft	12 km / 7.45 miles	4-5 hrs	-760 m / 2,493 ft	-
13	Trek to Lukla	2,828 m / 9,279 ft	19 km / 11.8 miles	6-7 hrs	-612 m / 2,007 ft	-
14	Fly back to Kathmandu	1,350 m / 4,430 ft	-	35 mins	-1,478 m / 4,849 ft	-
15	Final departure	-	-	-	-	-

Why is Gokyo Valley famous ?

Gokyo is an incredible valley that features the view of mountains, lakes, and picturesque landscapes. Gokyo Valley is truly the best that offers splendid views of Mt. Cho-Oyo [8,153m], Mt. Everest [8,848.86m], Mt. Lhotse [8,501m] and Makalu [8,463m]. This trek is a beauty-embedded abode that showcases holy temples and peaceful monasteries carefully carved landscapes and mountainous backdrops. Gokyo Trek takes you closer into the lives of the local inhabitants and their ancestral cultures and traditions. This is a multi-diverse trekking journey of a kind truly inspirational stimulating and inviting as well.

What to expect during Gokyo Valley Trek ?

This significant serene valley is no less than a heaven on earth. This trek has a spiritual influence that is ardently divine. Both the Hindu and Buddhist followers revere this valley and the lake as divine and holy. This is an experience to be availed if you are on a trekking journey during this time of the year. This makes the Everest Gokyo Valley trek one of the most preferred destinations for adventure seekers and avid trekkers’ devotees as well.

From the very beginning, you will be greeted by fantastic awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas and its incredible stretch. It all starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla lying at 2810 m. After our touchdown, we meet our entire team waiting at the airport and instantly make our way toward Phakding. We follow the trail that leads us to the famous Sagarmatha National Park and catch glimpses of diverse Himalayan flora and fauna. Next, we arrive at Namche after overcoming the challenging steep hard climb. The days here are meant for acclimatization and getting to know about the Sherpa way of life of the indigenous highlanders who reside here. Gradually we then follow the trail that reaches us to the Gokyo Valley.

This place is marked by a pedigree of spirituality, hospitality, and thrilling alpine views. Besides that, the warmth offered by the ever-smiling people inspires you throughout your journey. The next day an early morning climb of the famous Gokyo ri is on the cards. It offers astounding views of giant mountain peaks that include Mt. Everest. We spend some time here admiring the wonders of the snow-fed Himalayan peaks the peculiar lake Gokyo and its aesthetic significance. Later we leave this magnificent vicinity and retract following the same trail via Namche to Lukla. Once here we take a short and scenic flight of 35 minutes to Kathmandu ending our fairy-tale journey to the Gokyo Valley Trekking.

Nepal Trekking Planner takes profound care of its clients and prepares everything in detail to make the journey as enjoyable as possible. Our fleet of well-organized staff has all the experience to anticipate and assess difficult situations and overcome them without a scratch. Join our Gokyo Valley Trekking Package to enjoy an adventure blended in one power-packed package suitable for all the trekkers around the world.

NOTE: Gokyo Ri is around 1.5 kilometers to 2 kilometers further away from Gokyo Valley and is situated at an altitude of 5357meters.

Which is the best season or month for trekking to gokyo valley and gokyo ri?

Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Ri can be trekked all around the year. However, there are some peculiar seasons that add to the beauty of this trekking trail. Amongst all the seasons Autumn Sept. to Nov. and spring March to May are the best time for Trekking. The weather is delightful and pleasant during autumn. The mountain views are astonishing.

The hills are adorned with blooming rhododendron during spring. This is the reason why the trekkers find spring as the best time for trekking towards Gokyo Lake or Gokyo Valley. This is the time when Mother Nature is at her best engulfed into a flowery colour of red and green.

The winter months of Dec-Feb are not preferred by most due to their harsh weather. It is extremely cold and has a thick cloudy cover more often than not. As a result, the views are unclear and it remains concealed.

Trekking in Gokyo Valley is possible in the summer months of June until Mid-September however the climate is hot and unbearable for some trekkers. Besides that, there is every chance of heavy rainfall making it difficult for commuting up into the mountains and also creating transportation setbacks. Hence summer months are generally less frequent.

How to prepare for Gokyo Valley Trek? Is gokyo valley trek hard?

Be aware that you have to consistently hike up and down on uneven trails with a backpack that involves a walk that ranges between 5-7 hours. Though the Gokyo Valley Trekking is considered to be a moderate one it can sometimes be challenging. Regular exercise, jogging, and short hiking is the key to excelling in the high mountains. The more your train the better it is for your calves’ muscles and also helps build your stamina and makes you trek-ready with confidence. Prior trekking experience and technical skills are recommended but not compulsory. These prior skills will be an asset if you possess them.

Important Note

Every day of the year, trip departures are available.
This trip can be completely customized. Please contact us if you want to customize the trip.
This trip is available on a fixed departure basis as well as a private group basis.
If you are traveling alone or with your family, you can book this trip privately.
Have a large group? We can meet all your requirements.
We can work with you to make it affordable.
We accept online payments and instant bookings.

Local Culture and Religion on the trail of Gokyo Valley

Sherpas are the natives of Everest and other higher Himalayan regions, the word Sherpa comes from the Tibetan language as East for Sher and Pa means people, where Sherpa migrated around high Himalaya of Nepal around the Mid-East and Far Eastern Himalaya range from Eastern parts of Tibet.

Way back of more than 400 years of history, the Sherpa normally are farmers and livestock herding like cows and yaks interwoven with strong Buddhism religion and fascinating cultures that you can witness walking around villages.

In every Sherpa village, one can find a monastery as you walk from one village to another where you will come across many prayer walls and religious monuments of Stupas with rows of spinning prayer wheels.

Sherpa men-folks were the earlier pioneers as mountain and trekking guides and still held the post to the present.

Climate and Weather during Gokyo Valley Trek

Himalayan climate can be unpredictable sometimes even in good best seasons, where April and May to the first week of June will be the best time during spring times when days are longer with enough sunlight hours.

Morning and night time as well in shade can be cold and much freezing temperatures around higher areas above 3,000 m.

Other months from September to November are another great time for trekking around the Everest and Gokyo Region and other areas of the Himalayas, when days are clear for views and to summit the top of the peak, although much colder months of the autumn season with extremely cold during morning and night time, where sunlight is much shorter.

Altitude Sickness during Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Ri

Altitude Sickness AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) might occur in some people at the higher altitudes from 2,000 m for some above 3,000 m high where taking slow and drinking much fluid and water can overcome high altitude sickness or AMS.

For people with severe cases and situations of HACE and HAPE where the victim should be brought down to safe and secure places with a medical team or doctors to attend, the fastest means is emergency evacuation by any means of immediate and fast transportation where available.

Around Nepal Himalaya the quickest emergency evacuation by means of Helicopter services to bring the victims back to Kathmandu for further treatment.

For emergency evacuation where trekkers should be well insured with a good Insurance policy that covers all medical side and the use of helicopters or other means of transportation.

Is Travel Insurance Required For Trekking to Gokyo

Yes all travelers to Nepal Himalaya require Travel and Medical Insurance to cover unfortunate accidents and sickness covering Helicopter Service Rescue to safe places and nearest hospitals. Its not mandatory but having Travel insuracne helps for rescues and unexpected accidents.

Outline Itinerary for Gokyo Valley Trekking: 15 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,430ft )

Day 2: Full day in Kathmandu

Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) 35min and trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft) 3-4 hrs walk, , walking distance 7.5 km/4.6 miles and Total Elevation Gain 230 m/ 755 ft

Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,287ft) 5-6 hrs walk, , walking Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles and Total Elevation Gain 830 m/ 2723 ft

Day 5: Rest/acclimatization day at Namche Bazar, Hike to Everest View Hotel 3880 m/12730 ft and Total Elevation Gain 440 m/ 1444 ft

Day 6: Trek to Phortse Tanga (3,690m/12,106ft) 3-4 hrs walk, Walking Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles, Total Elevation Gain:

Day 7: Trek to Dole (4,200m/13,780ft) 3-4 hrs walk

Day 8: Trek to Machermo (4,470m/14,665ft) 4-5 hrs walk

Day 9: Trek to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715ft) 4-5 hrs walk

Day 10: Full day in Gokyo/hike to Gokyo Ri/Hike to 5th Lake and Cho Oyu base camp

Day 11: Trek to Dole (4,200m/13,780ft) 4-5 hrs walk

Day 12: Trek to Namche (3,440m/11,287ft) 4-5 hrs walk

Day 13: Trek to Lukla (2,828m/9,279ft)) 5-6 hrs walk

Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu(1,350m/4,430ft) about 30 min

Day 15: Final departure

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