Gokyo Trek

Gokyo Trek combines the classic Khumbu region adventure with an equally magnificent trip to Gokyo village. You have probably heard all about the Everest Base Camp Trek but, few have heard about Gokyo Ri or Gokyo Lakes, lying just a few kilometers away from Everest Base Camp.

The glimmering emerald waters of Gokyo Lake will take your breath away. It is often overlooked when trekkers visit the Everest region. Before even reaching there, though, there is a magnificent journey to have.

The trail begins with a thrill ride from Kathmandu to Lukla with a brief journey by turboprop aircraft. Start moving up past lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and other trees. Take in the lovely fresh air, which quickly gets thinner as we climb up. The landscape gets increasingly more desolate as we climb higher. Take a stop at Tengboche Monastery and receive blessings for good luck on the rest of the trip.

Beauty lies ahead at the majestic Gokyo Lakes, which are sacred to locals. You might believe so too once you lay your eyes on them. Either that night or the following morning (or both!), make your way up to Gokyo Ri (5357 meters), which rivals Kala Patthar as one of the best Everest region views. Watch the sunset and/or sunrise on several of the highest peaks known to man. Mount Everest (8848 meters), Lhotse (8516 meters), Cho Oyu (8201 meters), and Makalu (8481 meters) are all visible from the lookout point. Seeing the glow of the sun lighting up these mountains is mind-blowing.

Itinerary at a glance

Day01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Day03: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886 m.) and trek to Phakding
Day04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3440m.)
Day05: Rest day at Namche Bazaar (3440m) for acclimatization
Day06: Trek to Tengboche [3867m]
Day07: Trek from Tengboche to Dole (4040m.) via Khumjung.
Day08: Trek from Dole to Machheromo (4150m.)
Day09: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4570m.)
Day10: Rest day at Gokyo and excursion around Gokyo valley
Day11: Rest day at Gokyo
Day12: Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4040m.)
Day13: Trek to Namche [3450m]
Day14: Trek to Lukla [2800m]
Day15: Fly to Kathmandu
Day16: Departure

 

Detailed Itinerary

Tribhuvan International airport

Tribhuvan International airport

Arrival in Kathmandu

Meet, assist upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, by our representative who will escort you to your hotel.
Overnight at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu

While we proceed in applying for the trek permit, you can have a sightseeing tour to Kathmandu city, Swoyambhunath stupa and Patan city.

Kathmandu City: The seat of royalty until the last century, Kathmandu Durbar Square is a wondrous cluster of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards, and streets. Kumari, the living Goddess, the stone carved statue of ferocious Kal Bhairav, erotic carvings glorifying the artworks in the temples, the giant temple of the Goddess Taleju and image of Shiva and Parvati peering outside through the window are just a few of the most noteworthy attractions in the area. One can't help but admire the exceptionally attractive woodcarvings, statues, and buildings that is a cluster in the area.

Swayambhunath Stupa: A golden spire crowning a conical wooded hill, Swayambhunath Stupa is the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Katmandu valley. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spires are visible from many miles and from all sides of the valley. Historical records found on a stone inscription give evidence that the stupa was already an important Buddhist pilgrimage destination by the 5th century AD.

Patan City: Nowhere else can be seen such a compression of marvelous monuments within a limited space like in the Patan Durbar Square. Besides the old royal palace, which dominates all others in grace and grandeur, here is the 17th-century Krishna Mandir. Entirely made of stone, this shikhara-style structure with 21 pinnacles is dedicated to Lord Krishna, a savior deity in Hindu pantheon, and is equally noted for rare stone carvings on its walls, which depict various episodes of the epic wars of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Other landmarks within the Square are Tusha-hity (water spout), Sundari Chowk, Taleju Temple, and the Keshav Narayan Chowk. The Hiranyavarna Mahavihar (Golden temple), Rudravarna Mahavihar and the terra-cotta temple of Mahabouddha are other highlights in the vicinity.
Overnight at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Boudhanath

Boudhanath

Lukla

Lukla

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886 m.) and trek to Phakding

After having an early breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport to connect the flight to Lukla. It takes about 30 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and also takes about 03 and half hours to trek to Phakding (2640m.) from Lukla airport. Lukla is a small town with an airport. There are few tea shops, lodges, hotels, and general stores. You begin your trek from Lukla following a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi. Nupla (5885m.) can be seen in the distance on the opposite bank, is a peak atop the Kongde Ridge. You descend a mountainside path that merges into your route to Everest, with views to a valley to your right and its far end Kusum Kang (6367m.). The Dudh Koshi approaches as you pass a Mani wall and arrive at Ghat tea house. You continue along a small path with many climbs and descents following the left bank of Dudhkoshi to Phakding.
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m)

It takes about 5 – 6 hours walking and the trail starts through a level path along the right bank. Thamserku looms skyward on the opposite bank. You cross a stream and climb the terraced hill from the Dudh Koshi route and arrive at Benkar. The trail now climbs from the riverbed on the left bank into the mountain, through a forest to Chumoa. You continue along a path with many ups and downs; cross the stream and pass by a tiny village of Monjo. Now you descend the path of stone steps and return to the right bank. After a short climb you come to Jorsale’s tea house and hotel, also stop at the national park entrance counter where national park fee is collected. After Jorsale, you enter a forested mountainside. You follow a short walk along a riverbed of this V-shaped valley where the river forks the right, is the Dudh Koshi and the left is Bhotekoshi that leads to Nampa La. After a short distance along the Bhotekoshi, you begin the steep ascent to Namche Bazar. As the mountain path zigzags uphill, you will emerge at the ridge top rest area that offers excellent views of Everest (8848m.) and Lhotse (8516m.), the climb eases somewhat and Namche Bazar appears ahead as you travel along the path surrounded by Pines. Pass the plateau where the Saturday Bazar is held and enter the village. Namche Bazar (3440m.) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and opens out only where it faces the Bhotekoshi. The village is a central hub of the area and food, sundries and even mountain climbing equipment may be purchased here.
Overnight at Tea House.

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar

Rest day at Namche Bazaar (3440m) for acclimatization

Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peak of the Khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops as well as a magnificent outlook. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization to the high altitude before heading off towards Thyangboche. For acclimatization, you walk up to Khhumjung where you can visit the monastery. Khumjung is densely populated by Sherpa community. You can also enjoy the splendid views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawche and Kongde. OR you can have an hour walk up to the Syangboche (3800m) where Everest view hotel is situated above Namche for the outstanding view of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kusum Kangaru. There are also good views from the National park center and museum just above the town. This museum exhibits Sherpa culture.
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek to Tengboche (3867 m)

From Namche, the trail contours on to the side of the valley, high above the Dudh Kosi. We get our first really good views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Passing by several villages and numerous tea shops, we descend steeply to a bridge over the river at Phunki Tenga. The village is an ideal stopover for lunch. Here we can rest before making the steep climb to Tengboche. Although the hike up the zigzag path is tiring, it presents us with many beautiful sights of rhododendron bushes with beautiful birds and superb mountain scenery. Tengboche is famous for its legendary monastery, the largest in the Khumbu. A spectacular panorama of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam rising in the horizon can be seen from the campsite.
Overnight at Tea House.

Tengboche

Tengboche

Sagarmatha National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Trek from Tengboche to Dole (4040m.) via Khumjung

It takes about 06 hours. Heading up all the way to Khumjung, a picturesque village which also has its own Gompa at the top end of the town. Here you can have excellent views of Thamserku, Kantega and Ama Dablam. Soon after leaving Khumjung the trail climbs to a large Chorten on top of the ridge. This ridge descends from Khumbila, a 5743m peak, side to be an abode of the patron god of the Khumbu region. The trail descends slightly towards the Sanasa and the trail ascends up to Mongla (4000m.). From here, you can see panoramic views of various mountains. Your trek steeply descends passing through Phortse Tenga from here, the trail climbs steeply to Dole.
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek from Dole to Machheromo (4150 m)

It takes about five hours walk altogether. From Dole, you climb steadily along the side of the valley, where the small and thorny bushes give way to scrub juniper as the altitude increases. The trail passes many summer settlements, which are used when yaks are taken to these pastures to graze during summer. Ahead of you are excellent views of Cho Oyu, while back down the valleys are the peaks Kantega and Thamserku.
Overnight at Tea House.

Machheromo

Machheromo

Gokyo Lake

Gokyo Lake

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4570 m)

It takes about 4 – 5 hours of walking. Today you head for the lakes at Gokyo. You follow a very scenic path to Pangka and then descend slightly, following one of the melt-water River which flows down the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. You climb a steep rocky inclined into the valley by the side of the Glacier, passing the first of the holy lakes. You soon arrive at the second of the lakes crossing the path which heads across the glacier to Cho La (5420m.). The third lake is known as Dudh Pokhari and on its eastern shore is the settlement of Gokyo. Walking by the side of the lake the scenario is magnificent with the summits of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang, reflected in its emerald green waters.

Overnight at Tea House.

Rest day at Gokyo and excursion around Gokyo Valley

Gokyo is a trade center where Sherpa people run lodges to provide the best services to the trekkers. Gokyo is situated by the side of Ngozumpa glacier, the biggest glacier of Nepal. These days, you can make a side trip to the fifth lake via the fourth lake.
Overnight at Tea House.

Gokyo Ri

Gokyo Ri

Gokyo Lake

Gokyo Lake

Rest day at Gokyo

Opting to ascent the Gokyo Ri.
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4040 m)

Walk down to dole enjoying the splendid views of Thamserku, Kangtega and Ama Dablam.
Overnight at Tea House.

Everest

Everest

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar

Trek to Namche (3450 m)

We continue to follow the river and, after crossing it, climb back up through birch and rhododendron forest to Tengboche. Kwangde, Tawache, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Kantega and Thamserku are just a few of the Himalayan giants to be seen. From Tengboche, we descend to the bridge over the Dudh Kosi. At Phunki Tenga, we get to see the water driven prayer wheels, before making our way back to Namche.
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek to Lukla (2800 m)

Our final day's trekking follows the Dudh Kosi down to Lukla. This last evening calls for a celebration. We have a party with our Sherpa guides and porters. We sample some chang (local beer) and try out some Sherpa dance steps. Altogether an end to a memorable trip on a merry note.
Overnight at Tea House.

Lukla

Lukla

Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Fly to Kathmandu

We pack up early and head for the airstrip to hop a flight back to Kathmandu. Receive upon arrival in Kathmandu by our representative and escort to the hotel. Rest of your day is free to do your own things. You could do some last minute shopping and packing, or send a few postcards home or even go down for a stroll to Thamel, an internationally known hub for tourists in Asia.
Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Departure

Free till departure and later, transfer to the International Airport to connect the flight to onward destination.

airpot

Airpot

includes

Twin sharing accommodation at the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Equipments, clothings for porter.

Prevailing government taxes, Sagarmatha National Park fee, Tims card fee.

excludes

Any international airfares, Airport tax, Visa fees etc.

Insurances of any kind and any extra cost arises during the trip due to the natural calamities, political disorder or due to any reason which is beyond the control of Yacca Travels & Tours.

Any other services which is not specified in the COST INCLUDES section above.

Expenses of personal nature such as alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages, telephone & laundry bills, camera fees etc.

Gallery

TRIP INFO

TRIP GRADE
Moderate to fairly challenging trek, longer treks going right into high mountain country, to some of the famous mountaineering Base Camps over high passes. Physically quite tiring, involves approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges of high Himalayan peaks. No previous experience required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercise and enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.
 
TREKKING TYPES 
Lodge or Tea House trek: Although simple, the teahouses or lodges do provide shelter and warmth and are normally run by friendly local families. The lodge or tea house treks are less expensive than camping trek and are largely suitable for small group. Includes: Accommodation in Lodge, guide, porters and all meals
 
ACCOMMODATION
There are plenty of clean and friendly lodges along the trail. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We will accommodate you and your group in local lodge available each day. We send a porter ahead of us to book the required rooms (rooms cannot be booked in advance). Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary. It is cheaper to stay in lodge rather than organizing a camping trek. 
Camping trek means sleeping in tents. On a camping trek, the tents provided are ‘Two men dome’ or ‘A’ shaped. Clients need to have their own sleeping bag. Bags or cloth packs are used as pillows. If you wish, you can bring your own ‘Air pillow’.

FOOD
Lodge Trek OR Tea House Trek:
Meals are included in our price and are taken in lodges available along the trail. You can find a wide variety of Nepali and Western food as well as drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, beers….).
 
WATER
We recommend you to bring water purification pills. On the trail, water from the streams is safe if away from settlements. You can also buy the bottled water which is found at the shops on the trail.
 
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING
During trek your main luggage will be carried by porter. You simply carry a daypack with water bottle, camera, suns cream, spare jacket, etc – a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu for free of charge. Weight allowance at Nepal’s domestic airlines is 15 Kg, excess weight is chargeable @ USD 1 or more per Kilo depending on sectors.
 
PERSONAL EXPENSES
Personal expenses depend largely on the type of trek, duration and the trekking region.
On Tea house’ trek all meals will be provided. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places).
 
COMMUNICATION
Cell phones can be used in almost all the area during the trek.
 
TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENT
You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/ -20C rated), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack. 
 
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Each morning after packing our bags and a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. After walking for 3-4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day’s adventures, before retiring for a well-earned sleep.
 
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The most preferred seasons for this particular trek are autumn (from mid-September till November end) and spring (from the beginning of March until mid- May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -5*C to 5*C) and if the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 30C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. The trek can be done any time of the year except during monsoon [July & August]. Trekking during the monsoon is not recommended, as the visibility during monsoon is limited. Trekking in the winter is possible; however, it is much colder than Autumn and Spring.
March, April, October and November are the most popular and favored months for traveling. 
 
TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for Hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.
 
HEALTH ISSUES & VACCINATIONS
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.
 
Altitude Sickness has the potential to affect all travelers from 2500m and higher. Your body needs time to adjust to smaller quantities of oxygen in the air at 5500m/18,044ft or more; the air pressure is approximately half that of sea level, i.e. there is half the amount of oxygen. Acute Mountain Sickness is caused by going up high too fast and can be fatal if the entire warning signals are ignored. However, one needs to be careful and take all the necessary precautions.
 
FIRST AID KIT
We supply a first aid kit with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors. Since our staffs/guides do not possess much knowledge about medications. Hence, we would request you to use the medicines by yourself. It would be better if you bring your own medical supplies. We suggest that you take enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions. Age is no barrier to take an unforgettable trekking experience. 
 
RESCUE/EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expense incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu.
 
INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
 
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and number of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Yacca Travels & Tours, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible. As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative. Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times appear strew with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt. Our aim is to protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
 
TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever is more appealing to you.
 
CARE FOR PORTERS AND STAFF
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porters Protection group (IPPG – www.ippg.net).

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