Gokyo Ri Trek

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek - 14 Days

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek is considered a traditional trek that offers magnificent views of the mountain peaks and the Ngozumpa Glacier- the largest in Nepal’s Himalayas. The image of this region is associated with the soaring views of the most popular mountains in Nepal, at an altitude of 8000m such as Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu which are clearly visible from Gokyo Ri above Gokyo Lake.

One of the most remarkable features is the views of the tremendous ice ridge between Cho Oyu and Gyachung (2922m) located in Khumbu region. After a thirty-five minutes flight from Kathmandu / Manthali landing at Lukla’s tiny airstrip, the adventure of Everest Gokyo Ri trek begins.

We spend the next few days trekking and interacting among the mountain people also known as Sherpa’s, staying in local lodges and walking into their villages ‘ heartland. In conjunction with the local Sherpa guides, everything is organized.

We’re going to pass many Buddhist monasteries along the trek, with the views of Everest and other snowy mountains getting closer by the day. We will have days of rest in Namche bazaar villages that will enable us to discover and acclimatize the region, which is very important.

We return to Namche and Lukla for our flight back to Kathmandu after trekking to Gokyo Ri (5483 meters). If your time permits, you can start this trek from Jiri as well, but you will need to add 5/6 days extra in the itinerary.

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek is a moderate trekking grade. Although the trek does not require any technical climbing, it is because of the day-long treks that the Everest Gokyo Ri trek difficulty.

You will need to walk on a daily basis for at least 5 hours excluding the days of acclimatization. So, yes the trek is challenging for beginner trekkers in particular.

When summarized, this trek is an amazing and achievable experience. Even for first-time trekkers. But you may not be sure about the trek’s difficulty yet.

However, if you want to walk in the Everest region without the physical stress of reaching the Everest Base Camp, the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek is perfect. It’s less difficult to trek.

It is an alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp Trek.

This trek will take you through the Everest Region and the Gokyo Ri, the world’s highest mountain.

The Gokyo Valley is renowned for the “Gokyo Lakes,” a combination of large and enchanting glacial lakes. It’s another fascinating stop on the Gokyo Valley trek as well.

Day 1
Arrive in kathmandu (1400 meters)

Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport after completing your custom formalities Visa, etc. pick up your luggage and look for our airport representative from Himalaya Discovery Adventures, who will display your name on the board at the arrival gate. You will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2
Free in Kathmandu for sightseeing and pre trip briefing and gear check.

Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may wish to visit Durbar Square in the heart of the old city where the old Royal Palace, with its intricate woodcarving is located. The whole area is a maze of temples and images. Leading away from the square in all directions are narrow alleys, full of the most amazing variety of shops and stalls.

Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ Swayambhunath and Buddhists shrine Buddhanath which is one of the largest Stupas in the world.

There will also be a full trip briefing today with gear check. In case you need to hire or buy equipment locally there will be time to do this today. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3
Fly to Lukla from Manthali, and then trek to Phakding (2651 m)

Everest Base Camp trek begins on the second day with a scenic flight from Manthali airport to Lukla Tenzing Hillary airport (2,804 m).

Upon arrival at Lukla, you will meet our porters who will be carrying your bags. The Everest Base Camp hike starts after a short glimpse of the village of Lukla, where you will pass the village of Chaurikharka and then descend towards Dudh Koshi and Ghat.

From there, you follow the trails to Phakding via the bank of the Dudh Koshi river and stay overnight at Phakding.

Please note: Kathmandu to Lukla flight has been moved to Manthali airport, Ramechhap in peak trekking season Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November) due to increased traffic and since March 2019 renovations at Kathmandu airport.

Manthali airport can be reached by road from Kathmandu within 4 to 6 hours drive. This means you need to wake up early in the morning around 2:30 am to take a drive and catch your Lukla flight from Manthali early in the morning. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 4
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 meters) 5.30 hrs

We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudhkosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Everest National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views.

Namche Bazaar known as the Gateway to Everest which is home to many quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, Money exchange, internet cafe and a bakery. Namche is one of the biggest villages along the whole Everest trail. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 5
Acclimatization day.

We will spend a day here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning of the air. A short trek to a museum celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa people.

Today, we hike up the Syangboche Airport, and around Everest View Hotel. From this point, we have rewarding views of the Himalayas with a stunning sunrise or sunset over the panorama of the Khumbu peaks. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 6
Trek to Phorste Thanga (3680 meters) 5 hrs.

Today, the trail climbs steeply out of valley through rhododendron forest, juniper and large conifers start to appear as the elevation increases making trekking beautiful in spring.

The trail passes through Yak Kharkas and summer settlements. The views of Ama Dablam, Khumbi La and Tawache are magnificent throughout the day. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 7
Trek to Machhermo (4150 meters) 5 hrs.

The trail climbs a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kengtega and up towards Cho Oyu and descend to a river and again climbs steep to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpz glacier. We will reach at Machherma by early noon. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 8
Trek to Gokyo (4790 meters) 5.30 hrs.

Today the trek takes us at one of our final destination, Gokyo (4790m). We will make this camp our base for 2 nights as we will have couple of hiking and sightseeing trips around Gokyo. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 9
Hike up to Gokyo Ri (5483 meters) then back to Gokyo. 5 hrs.

Today, early in the morning we have steep climb up to the top of Gokyo Ri at elevation of 5483 meters, ample rewards to anyone that attempts this trip.

There are stunning views of the supper Gokyo Valley, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier and an incredible panoramic view of the whole Khumbu Himalayas, such as giants as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu and Gychung Kang can be seen.

Those who discover the glacier and Gokyo peak are rewarded. This day we have for acclimatization and after noon back to the camp. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 10
Trek to Dole (4200 meters) 6 hrs.

Following same trail down, we will make our descent to Dole. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 11
Trek to Namche Bazaar via Khumjung village (3780 meters) 5 hrs.

Descend to Namche Bazaar via typical Sherpa village of Khumjung. Leaving the mountains behind us our descent continues back to the town of Namche Bazaar at elevation of (3440 meters). Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 12
Trek to Lukla (2886 meters) 6 hrs.

Finally, we return to Lukla where the trek started, which will seem like a lifetime ago. Enjoying time to reflect on the trek as a group and the personal achievement of all those who took part. Also giving you time to discover the town. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 13
Fly back to Kathmandu.

Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited for one last time on the 35 minute Scenic flight back to Kathmandu. You can rest and relax throughout the day.

In the evening we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 14
Free day / Fly to home.

It’s also spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla. If you get interested to take some gifts from Nepal for friends and relatives, visit to some nearby shops or go out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods.

In the evening we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 15
Fly to home.

The trip concludes! We will drop you to the airport according to your flight schedule.

Price Includes

  • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
  • Airfare both ways (KTM – Lukla – KTM).
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
  • Transportations, accommodation, wage, food, insurance, equipment for the guide & porter.
  • Best available lodge accommodations during the trek.
  • Pulse Oximeter for the blood oxygen saturation level monitor to high altitude.
  • English speaking Sherpa trek guide.
  • All necessary paper works, Everest National park entry permit.
  • Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Himalaya Discovery duffel bag.
  • Hiking pole for the trek, if needed.
  • Trek map.
  • Farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant after the trip completion in Kathmandu.

Price Excludes

  • International airfares and Nepal visa.
  • Any personal medical or evacuation expenses incur.
  • International Travel insurance which included rescue.
  • Tips for the guide & porter (tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the ‘Price Includes’ section.

Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

A. Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Himalaya Discovery Adventures sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Q. When is the best time to travel to Nepal?

A. For the trekking regions of the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Jumla Rara Lake, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Manaslu we recommend the periods February to May and September to December as the best time for travelling.

  •  For trekking in Mustang or Dolpo region we recommend May to September.
  • The Poon hill  trek  in the Annapurna region takes place throughout the entire year.
  • Cultural tours takes place throughout the entire year. For the best mountain views the periods February to May and September to December are recommended.

Q. How is the climate (temperatures) during the seasons?

A. Winter – January and February. Pleasant temperatures. The nights, mornings and evenings can, however, be quite cold (approx. 0°C – 5°C. Throughout the day, it is mostly sunny with cooler temperatures (approx. 18°C – 20°C).

Spring – March to May. Hot and dry pre-monsoon season (approx. 25°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 7°C – 20°C at night). May is the hottest month in the lowlands. June is the hottest month in the mountains.

Summer – Monsoon from June to August (approx. 28°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 20°C at night). Strong rainfall, continuous sultriness and high humidity.

Early autumn – From September the monsoon season is constantly interrupted by periods with only a slight rainfall. Towards the end of August the pauses in rainfall become more frequent and longer.

Late autumn – Post-monsoon season from October to December. The nights, mornings and evenings can be relatively cool (approx. 5°C – 10°C). During the day the sun shines and it is warm (approx. 20°C – 27°C).

Q. Where can I change money?

A. Any cash you have taken with you can be exchanged into Nepalese rupees at the banks, large hotels and the numerous bureau de changes.

Q. Can I use my mobile phone in Nepal?

A. The network coverage is meanwhile quite good in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and other parts of the Terai (in the rural areas it is very unpredictable).

Basically, foreign SIM cards (providers having international roaming contracts with Nepal) can also be used. However, it is cheaper to buy a local SIM card (Mero Mobile, NTC (GSM) – for approx. NPR 500 or more) and top this up.

Q. Can I use the tap water for drinking and brushing teeth?

A. Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Nepal and it should not be used for cleaning your teeth, either. As there is often a scarcity of water in the countryside, water should be used very sparingly.

Q. What should I concern during my stay in Nepal?

A. Nepali people are very kind and friendly, but there are some things that you should be aware of:

  • Do not take photos of anyone without their permission; always ask permission first!
  • Do not wear hot pants/short paints or stylish clothes in the remote area! (shoulders and legs should be covered)
  • Do not wear hats or caps when you enter a chapel!
  • Do not touch Buddha statues or ritual offerings inside of a monastery!
  • Do not kiss or hug in public places, especially in monasteries!
  • Do not step across someone’s feet, cups or cooking gears!

Q. What documents do I need to visit Nepal?

A. A tourist visa is required for entering Nepal. The tourist visa can be applied for, for different lengths of stay. A visa is required for children under 10 years but no fee is charged. The entry to Nepal must take place within 6 months of issuing the visa.

Q. How much does the Visa for Nepal cost?

A. The fees for the tourist visa (fees valid since 16.07.2008) are staggered as follows:

  • 15 days (several entries possible)  $ 30 (approx. EUR 27.00)
  • 30 days (several entries possible)  $ 50 (approx. EUR 45.00)
  • 90 days (several entries possible)  $ 125 (approx. EUR 115.00)

An extension of the visa to a maximum of 150 days is possible (per year – January to December). The extension must be made at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu. A fee of $ 2.00 is charged in Nepalese rupees (NPR) per day of extension.

Q. Can I find a hospital with western doctors?

A. CIWEC Clinic with western doctors is located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Tel. +977 1 442 4111, info@ciwec-clinic.com.

Q. Do I need an international health and travel insurance?

A. It is recommended taking out a travel and health insurance covering the following risks:- Emergency and personal accident transport/emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue, rescue costs in a case of illness or accident), medical and personal accident risks, repatriation, tour cancellation, damages and theft of baggage.

Q. What happens in bad weather periods?

A. There is virtually always a possibility of a flight delay or postponement owing to highly unpredictable weather conditions that may occur in Himalayan regions, in particular, in the Everest region (Lukla), Jomsom, Dolpo, Simikot and the Jumla region, etc.

When trekking in remote areas or those described above, and especially outside the trekking season, the clients are strongly advised to reserve extra days for making  allowance for possible delays, and thereby avoid any frustrating consequences. In the case of a delayed flight prior to commencing the tour, or at the end of the tour, the participants shall pay for their own accommodation, food costs, etc.

Q. Where can I store my unneeded luggage during trekking?

A. As a rule there is the possibility before commencing the trek, of depositing part of the baggage in the hotel in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.

Q. What kind of meals I can have during the trekking?

A. All Meals on full board basis will be provided during trekking. Freshly cooked food is served at all times (western, continental and Nepalese, Chinese, Indian and Tibetan meals are available in all places).

Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Q. Can I re-charge camera batteries along the trek?

A. Yes, Most of the places, you can charge batteries along the trek (per hour USD 2 – 3 for charging).

Q. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

A. Nepal has modern banking facilities and some international banks even have offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Master card are accepted in Nepal. Nepal has also ATM facilities as well.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. This itinerary can be customized according to the duration of your holiday. We have many options for shorter visits based on your interests and budget.

On an adventure trek of this type, weather, political strikes, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is however very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Trek Leader and Crew

Here at Himalaya Discovery, we firmly believe that the way to get the most out of your staff is to treat them well; a happy staff is a hard-working staff. And this belief manifests itself in every way we deal with our staff.

We employ only local leaders and staff to help sustain the local communities we work with. We provide training for all our staff and all our trek leaders are trained in the following as a minimum;

  •  Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  •  Trekking Guide Training
  •  Eco Trekking Workshop & Adventure Meet
  •  English Language
  •  Conservation & Biodiversity
  •  Rock & Ice Climbing & Mountaineering (for expedition leaders)

So, we can guarantee you your trip will be led by the best, most professional and experienced guides there are. All of our guides good English-speakers, All our guides are carefully selected for their experience, leadership skills and personal ability. We have learnt that effective leadership is a vital for a trip to be safe, enjoyable and successful.

In fact, not only are all our guides experienced working in these regions, but most of them actually grew up in these mountainous regions of Nepal. Its home for them, it’s in their blood. They’re not only ‘familiar’ with local communities and culture; they’re a part of them and they practice it. They truly love their home and relish getting the opportunity to show travellers.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek

Trip Facts

  • 14 Days
  • Moderate
  • Min. 2 to Max. 14 people
  • Feb to May and Sept to Dec
  • 5,483m.
  • Everest
  • 12 - 14 Days
  • 5 to 6 Hours
  • Lukla/Lukla
  • Kathmandu
Chhiring Sherpa - Trip Planner

“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”