GOKYO RI TREK 9 DAYS
GOKYO RI TREK 9 DAYS
The Gokyo Ri Trek is a thrilling 9-day adventure in the Everest region of Nepal, offering trekkers stunning views of towering Himalayan peaks, serene glacial lakes, and vibrant Sherpa culture. This trek is ideal for those seeking a more remote and peaceful experience compared to the more crowded Everest Base Camp trek. Starting in Kathmandu, trekkers fly to Lukla and trek through the picturesque Sherpa villages of Phakding and Namche Bazaar. Along the way, trekkers gradually acclimatize to the altitude, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), which offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Everest range, including Mount Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding peaks. Another major highlight is exploring the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, a series of five turquoise lakes situated at the foot of the Ngozumpa Glacier, providing a surreal and tranquil experience. The trek also includes crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest glacier, which adds an adventurous and dramatic element to the journey.
Throughout the trek, trekkers will experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sherpa people, learning about their traditions and culture. The trek’s relatively moderate difficulty makes it a great choice for those who want a Himalayan adventure without the extreme challenge of Everest Base Camp. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and stunning views, the Gokyo Ri Trek is truly an unforgettable journey.
Highlights:
🌄 Gokyo Ri Summit - Panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
🏞️ Gokyo Lakes - Stunning turquoise glacial lakes
🏔️ Everest View - Magnificent views of Everest and surrounding peaks
🏘️ Sherpa Culture - Immersion in Sherpa villages and traditions
❄️ Ngozumpa Glacier - Trek across Nepal's largest glacier
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly to Lukla (2,804 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) – Duration: 4-5 hours.
Your adventure begins with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small mountain airport in the heart of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you’ll start your trek towards Phakding, passing through lush forests and crossing scenic suspension bridges. The day's trek offers a great introduction to the Himalayan landscape.
Day 2 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
The trail today takes you through dense forests and across the Dudh Koshi River before ascending to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant gateway to the Everest region. This is a challenging day with a steady climb, but the rewards are well worth it as you reach Namche, known for its bustling market and stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Day 3 : Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar.
To help your body adjust to the increasing altitude, you’ll spend a day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. You can take a short hike to the nearby viewpoint for magnificent views of Everest and other peaks. Alternatively, explore the village, visit the local monastery, or take a walk to the Sherpa Museum.
Day 4 : Trek to Dole (4,200 m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trail leaves Namche and gradually ascends through the pine forests, passing several small Sherpa villages along the way. The route becomes quieter as you approach Dole, a small village offering fantastic views of the surrounding peaks and the Ngozumpa Glacier.
Day 5 : Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today, you'll continue your ascent, crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier as you make your way to Gokyo. Gokyo is a stunning place, offering views of the pristine Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The trek is moderate, with a steady climb leading you into the high-altitude environment.
Day 6 : Trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) and Trek to Dole (4,200 m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
The highlight of the trek! Early in the morning, you’ll hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri for jaw-dropping panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and the surrounding peaks. Afterward, descend back to Dole, where you can rest and reflect on the incredible experience.
Day 7 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today, you’ll descend back through the Gokyo valley, retracing your steps down to Namche Bazaar. The trek is downhill and more relaxed, giving you time to enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way back to the bustling village of Namche.
Day 8 : Trek to Lukla (2,860 m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
The final leg of your trek takes you back to Lukla. As you retrace your steps through the Dudh Koshi valley, you’ll reflect on the journey you’ve completed. The trek is mostly downhill, and you’ll arrive in Lukla for your final night in the mountains.
Day 9 : Fly back to Kathmandu (Duration: 30-minute flight)
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll board a flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The flight offers one last view of the stunning Himalayas before returning to the bustling city of Kathmandu, marking the end of your unforgettable Gokyo Ri Trek.
SERVICES
What's Included in Your Trekking Package:
- Airport Transfers: Domestic airport pick-up and drop-off by private car/jeep.
- Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trek.
- Fresh Fruit: Fresh fruit provided every evening after dinner.
- Accommodation: Stay in trekking lodges (Tea Houses) during the trek.
- Permits: All necessary paperwork including Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Flights: Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap) flights with private airport transfer and domestic airport taxes.
- Guides and Staff:
- A highly experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed guide, covering their salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters (one porter per two trekkers), with their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance, along with proper safety and walking equipment.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more.
- Medical Support: Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit) and arrangements for emergency helicopter services (paid by your travel insurance).
- Equipment: Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (to be returned at the end of the trek).
- T-Shirt: A Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt.
- Government Taxes & Official Fees: All applicable government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip Achievement Certificate: Certificate awarded upon successful completion of the trek.
- Health Monitoring: Oxygen meter to monitor your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily, ensuring your health and well-being during the trek.
What's Not Included in Your Trekking Package:
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner while you are in Kathmandu.
- Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu: Costs for hotel stay in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
- Nepal Entry Visa: The visa fee for Nepal, which is easy to obtain on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu:
- $30 USD for a 15-day visa
- $50 USD for a 30-day visa
- $125 USD for a 90-day visa
- Personal Travel and Medical Insurance: Travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip (highly recommended for coverage).
- International Airfare: Your international flights to and from Nepal.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases such as souvenirs, snacks, or items not specified in the package.
- Beverages: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and any extra food or drinks you choose to purchase along the trek and in the tea houses.
- Desserts and Sweets: Items like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding, and other sweet treats.
- Hot Showers and Battery Charging: Charges for hot showers and battery charging at the tea houses along the trek.
- Tips: Tipping for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected in Nepal).
- Excess Baggage: Any baggage weight exceeding the 10 kg limit for the Lukla flight.
Note: If you return early from the trek due to sickness or other issues, the fees for flights, hotels, mountain rooms, food, etc., are nonrefundable. You will need to bear any additional expenses for hotel stays, food, etc., in Kathmandu on your own.
EQUIPMENTS
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.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
🏔️ Good to Know: Gokyo Ri Trek 9 Days
Before embarking on the Gokyo Ri Trek 9 Days, there are several important details to consider. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your adventure:
🛫 Flight to Lukla
Your trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The flight is scenic but can be challenging due to Lukla's short runway and unpredictable weather conditions. Always be prepared for possible delays.
🏞️ Trekking Route and Terrain
The trek follows a steep and challenging route that leads through the Khumbu Valley, passing through Sherpa villages, forests, and rivers. The terrain is a mix of rocky paths, alpine meadows, and challenging ascents, culminating in the summit of Gokyo Ri at 5,483m.
🏥 Altitude and Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a concern due to the high elevation of the trek. Although this route doesn’t include acclimatization days, it's essential to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, dizziness, nausea). Consider taking necessary precautions such as acetazolamide and avoid overexerting yourself.
🏠 Accommodation
Accommodation during the trek is in teahouses or lodges, which offer basic amenities. Expect simple rooms with shared bathrooms, and meals such as dal bhat, noodles, and rice. The facilities may vary in quality based on the altitude.
🌡️ Weather and Temperature
Weather conditions can vary, but the temperatures generally remain cold, especially at higher altitudes. During the day, temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C at lower elevations, but drop to -10°C to -15°C at night in higher areas like Gokyo. Always pack warm layers and be prepared for potential snow.
🧳 Packing Essentials
Bring the essentials, including warm clothing, a sleeping bag, trekking boots, and a water bottle. Consider items like sunscreen, gloves, a hat, and trekking poles. Don't forget a first aid kit and personal medications.
🧑🤝🧑 Trekking Team and Guide
A guide is essential for safety, especially since there are no rest days in this trek. You’ll be trekking through remote areas, so a porter can also be hired to carry your gear. Sherpa Expedition ensures professional and experienced staff for your safety.
💸 Cost of the Trek
The cost of the Gokyo Ri Trek typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 USD, depending on the services included, such as accommodation, meals, permits, and guides. Be prepared to cover additional costs like tips and extra meals.
📅 Best Time to Trek
The best seasons to do the Gokyo Ri Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and the best trekking conditions.
💪 Physical Fitness
This trek is physically demanding, so being in good shape is crucial. The trek involves long daily hours of walking and climbing at high altitudes, so training for endurance and stamina beforehand is highly recommended.
🥾 Safety and Emergency
Trekking at high altitudes can pose risks. Always be prepared for the unexpected by carrying a satellite phone for emergencies. Emergency evacuation may be needed in case of severe altitude sickness or injury. Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is highly recommended.
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FAQS
How difficult is the Gokyo Ri Trek?
The Gokyo Ri Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves some challenging ascents and high altitudes, but it is less strenuous than the Everest Base Camp trek, making it suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness levels.
What is the best time to do the Gokyo Ri Trek?
The best time to trek to Gokyo Ri is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is clear, and the views of the mountains are at their best.
What should I pack for the Gokyo Ri Trek?
You should pack warm clothing, including a down jacket, thermal layers, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Don’t forget comfortable trekking boots, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.
How high is Gokyo Ri, and will I get altitude sickness?
Gokyo Ri stands at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). Due to the altitude, there is a risk of altitude sickness, but proper acclimatization, gradual ascent, and staying hydrated can reduce this risk.
How long is the Gokyo Ri Trek?
The Gokyo Ri Trek typically lasts 9 days, with several days for acclimatization. The trek covers around 70-80 kilometers (43-50 miles), depending on the route taken.
Is a guide necessary for the Gokyo Ri Trek?
Yes, it is highly recommended to trek with a guide or porter, as the route can be challenging to navigate, and guides can provide valuable knowledge of the area, culture, and safety.
What kind of accommodation is available?
During the trek, you’ll stay in teahouses, which offer basic but comfortable accommodations, including a bed, shared bathroom facilities, and meals.
Can I trek to Gokyo Ri without previous trekking experience?
While prior trekking experience is helpful, it is not required. However, a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to walk for several hours a day is necessary.
How do I get to the starting point of the trek?
You will fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, and then begin your trek from there.
What is the altitude of Gokyo Lakes?
The Gokyo Lakes are located at an altitude of about 4,700 meters (15,400 feet) and are a major highlight of the trek.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 5402 Reviews
Poornapragnya P R
India
December 29, 2024
Outstanding experience!
This trek is probably the best starting point for people planning to trek the peaks in the Everest Region. The trek difficulty is moderate for an absolutely unprepared person, and easy for experienced hikers. The trek is filled with stunning beauty of the very diverse Himalayan terrain. It was a fine experience with dense forests, plain mountains and rocky regions. The trek to the summit was exceptional, and I witnessed the sunrise of a lifetime at the summit, along with a great panoramic view of Mt. Everest and the Greater Himalayan Range. Climatic conditions were good, except for very strong wind on the way to the summit from base camp. I profusely thank Mr. Lhakpa Sona, the Sherpa who was with me throughout the trek, making accommodation and food arrangements during the trek, and for guiding me at each step as it was my first Himalayan trek. I also thank Mr. Ang Giljin the porter, who carried my personal effects and luggage and was incredibly supportive. Finally, I thank Mr. Ram Barakoti for organizing this trek for me. I'm already making plans for my next trek to Gokyo valley and Mt. Gokyo Ri summit with Lhakpa, as the next step towards my dream of summiting Mt. Everest. Thank you Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd. ! Let's meet again soon.
Victoria Rowland
Australia
October 23, 2024
A Journey Beyond Expectations
I embarked on the Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, and it exceeded all my expectations. The professionalism of the staff was evident from the start. Our guide was not only skilled but also friendly, making the trek enjoyable and educational. The landscapes were jaw-dropping, with diverse terrain and charming villages. Every day brought new wonders, and the support from the Sherpa team made all the difference. I can’t wait to return for another adventure!
Urszula Morańda
United Kingdom
October 23, 2024
Professionalism at Its Best
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking demonstrated professionalism at every stage of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. From the pre-trek briefing to the final goodbye, the team's organization was impressive. Our guides were skilled and experienced, ensuring our safety while encouraging us to embrace the adventure. The trek was well-structured, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the stunning landscapes and local culture. I felt well taken care of and was able to focus on enjoying the journey. This trek has sparked a passion for trekking, and I’m eager to plan my next adventure.
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