Gokyo Valley Trek

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Gokyo Valley Trek is a fine alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek which climbs the valley to the west of Everest to the village of Gokyo and five sacred lakes on the moraine beside the Ngozumpa Glacier. This spectacular climb almost as high as the Everest Base Camp Trek offers similarly jaw-dropping Everest views, but the trails are less crowded and quieter with traditional Sherpa villages serving local meals to legions of hungry trekkers. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River to its source – a series of emerald-green lakes. Gokyo is a Sherpa village that lies besides the largest of these lakes. From Gokyo we climb to Gokyo Ri (5360 m) for a heart stopping view over Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu, Cholatse and Taboche. Our journey Begins The Gokyo Valley Trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu toward the tiny hilltop settlement of Lukla. Lukla is the starting point of various treks of the Khumbu region. Upon landing at Lukla your trek starts, head towards Phakding. Along the way witness views of Mt. Khumbila known as the “God of Khumbu”. The sacred peak is prohibited to climb, which makes it one of the unclimbed peaks in the region. From, Phakding traversing across lush wilderness proceed to Sherpa capital and economic hub of the region Namche Bazaar. After an acclimatization excursion at Namche, next head towards Phortse Thenga, a riverside settlement. After that, traversing along the ridge section with excellent views down the valley to Kangtega and up towards Cho Oyu. Trekking on high alpine grounds where the tree line disappears, following the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa glacier, you will reach the tiny hamlet of Machhermo. The following day head towards Gokyo. Chasing river networks of sparkling glacier waters and traversing across the brown and grey landscape to the settlement of Gokyo. Spending Our Days at Gokyo
At Gokyo, you will be spending 2 days exploring. The next day head out to explore the series of emerald, green lakes

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2800 meters/ 9187 feet). Trek to Phakding Flight 30 Minutes.

After breakfast head towards the domestic airport and catch a flight towards Lukla. Lukla is regarded as the gateway to the Everest region. The thrilling flight you will take you flying amidst the grand Himalayas. Upon landing at Lukla and after a brief stop, start your trek. Following the descending trail, you will reach the village of Cheplung, from the village witness the view of Mt. Khumbila known as the "God of Khumbu". The sacred peak is prohibited to climb, making it one of the unclimbed peaks in the region. From Cheplung, continue the trek along lush woodland on a descending trail towards Phakding.

Day 2: Trek to Namche (3440 Meters/ 11286 Feet) Trekking Time: 5-6 Hours

Today you will be heading towards Namche Bazaar. The Sherpa capital and economic hub of the region, where you can find basic to grandeur amenities. Start your trek traversing across the dense wilderness of the Khumbu region. Crossing through the hamlet of Zamphute and Tok Tok. Following uphill and downhill trails and crossing multiple suspension bridges over the rapids of the Dudh Koshi River. Along with this section witness the magnificent view of Mt. Thamserku (21,675ft) and you will pass the settlement of Benkar and Chumoa. As you progress from here you will reach the Sagarmatha National Park entrance at Monjo. After your permits are checked, head on an uphill climb towards Namche Bazaar following a steep path over a high bridge with views of the Dudh Koshi River gorge. As, you gain elevation witness views of Everest, Lhotse, Tawache, and other mountain giants. Upon reaching Namche head towards your accommodation and rest.

Day 3: Acclimatize at Namche Bazaar (3440 Meters/ 11286 Feet)

This is the first day of acclimatization. At higher altitudes due to the presence of thin air proper acclimatization is very important for your body to adapt. Today you will be heading on various small hikes in and around Namche Bazaar. Hike up to Everest View Hotel to enjoy admirable views of the Himalayan vista. From the Hotel catch a glorious view of the beautiful landscape filled with evergreen fir trees, shrubs, and endless rhododendron forests and offers a 360-degree view of the awe-inspiring Himalayas. After soaking in the views, on your way back to Namche, head towards the Khumjung Monastery. The monastery house, what is to be believed as a Yeti scalp. After exploring the ancient monastery, visit the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National Park and observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture, and learn about the biodiversity of the Everest region.

Day 4: Trek to Phortse Thenga (3680 Meters/ 12073 Feet) Trekking Time: 6 hours

Start by climbing a steep incline out of the valley along the lush wilderness of rhododendron, and juniper. As you gain altitude the landscape changes to patches of large conifers and shrubs. Today you will be covering a distance of 5.7 kilometers/ 3.5 miles. Along the trail witness the true culture of the Sherpa People. As you progress the trail takes you across Yak Kharka a high alpine pastureland and summer settlements villages. Witness grand views of Ama Dablam and other snowy peaks. Next, you will reach the settlement of Mong, marked by a large white Gompa. This village is the birthplace of the Khumbu saint, Lama Sangwan Dorje. From here after a short descent, you will see the village of Phortse Thenga, across the river. Following the trail, you will eventually reach the village, a riverside settlement.

Day 5: Trek to Machhermo (4470 Meters/ 14665 Feet) Trekking Time: 7 hours

Today’s trek is long and takes you to higher altitude, which means thin air so take it slow and have frequent rest. First head out of Phortse Thenga ascending on a ridge section with excellent views down the valley to Kangtega and up towards Cho Oyu. As you progress you will be traversing on high alpine grounds where the tree line disappears. Witness grand views of the Himalayas along the trail. Next, descend towards the river and upon crossing the river head on a tuff uphill section, as you gain altitude you will be traversing the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa glacier. Following the moraine, you will reach the tiny hamlet of Machhermo.

Day 6: Trek to Gokyo (4790 meters/ 15715 Feet) Trekking Time: 7 hours

Today's trek will take you to Gokyo. Covering a distance of 6.8 kilometers/ 4.2 miles and gaining 320 meters in altitude. Start by following the river network sparkling with glacier waters. Along the trail witness splendid views of the Ngozumpa glacier as well as Khumjung and Khunde peaks. As you progress you will be traversing high alpine grounds with arid landscapes and flat terrain of brown and grey shades. After traversing across high mountain country crossing glacieric streams and river networks a steep ascend will lead you to the settlement of Gokyo. For the next 2 days, you will be exploring the wonders of Gokyo.

Day 7: Explore around Gokyo

Today you will be exploring the wonders of the Gokyo region. Before dawn witness the Himalayan sunrise. After breakfast head out to explore the series of Gokyo Lakes. The region nestles the world's highest freshwater lake system comprising six main lakes and associated wetlands of 7,770 ha (30.0 sq mi) which has been designated a Ramsar site. The lakes also have cultural significance and are visited by Hindu and Buddhist devotees at various festivals. Explore the emerald, green lakes and soak in the energy. After exploring the 3 lakes located in small proximity of the tea house. Next head out to explore the fourth Gokyo Lake which is 3km north of the Gokyo Village. Next, continue trekking towards the 5th lake. The view from ‘Scoundrel’s Viewpoint’, located at the edge of the 5th lake, is astonishing. Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu mountains, and the huge Ngozumba Glacier appear in its majestic form. Spend the day strolling around the lakes

Day 8: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5483 meters/ 17988 Feet) Hiking Time -6 hours

Gokyo Ri is the highlight of the Gokyo valley Trek and is an epic vantage point for the mountain views. Following an uphill section will lead you to the summit of Gokyo Ri, start by traversing across the stream on the northern end of the village and ascending for a couple of hours and you will reach the summit marked by a cradle of prayer flags. The climb is non-technical, but the altitude may be a problem for some, so take it slow and have frequent rest. From the summit, witness splendid panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, and Taboche, with the Ngozumpa Glacier cutting across in front like a massive tear in the landscape. Catch the views of a series of emerald, green lakes. After exploring the Ri and soaking in the majestic views retrace your steps back towards the village.

Day 9: Trek to Dole (4200 Meters/ 13779 Feet) Trekking Time: 6 Hours

Today enjoy the majestic views of the landscape while heading on a descending trail. Traversing across the alpine territory, crossing streams and the tracks of Ngozumba glacier. Along the way witness views of Cholatse and Cho Oyu peaks. Retracing your steps back you will eventually reach the settlement of Dole.

Day 10: Trek to Namche via Khumjung (3880 Meters/ 12729 Feet) Trekking Time: 6 to 7 hours

Today you will be heading towards Namche Bazaar and most of the section is downhill. Start early as you will have to cover a lot of ground about 11.5 kilometers. From the high alpine ground, you will reach lush woodlands. Along the way witness grand views of the landscapes and the snowy mountain range. As you progress you will reach the settlement of Khumjung. From Khumjung head towards Namche Bazaar. Upon reaching Namche Bazaar after a brief rest, head out to visit various pubs and restaurants in the region.

Day 11: Trek to Lukla (2800 meters/ 9187 Feet). Trekking Time: 6 hours

Today’s trek is entirely on a downward section. Cross several bridges over the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi River and its tributaries. Along the trek, enjoy walking on open plains, through rhododendron and pine forests, and distant views of the snow-covered peaks. Along the trail cross several villages. Upon reaching Lukla, rest for a while. Later celebrate the success of your trek and the last night in the mountains with your team members.

Day 12: Lukla to Kathmandu: Flight Time: 30 minutes

The flights to Kathmandu are usually scheduled for the morning for safety purposes. After reaching Kathmandu head towards your accommodation and rest. Today you can take a guided tour of the city or stroll by on your own. In the evening, attend a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your trek. NOTE: All of the aforementioned trekking hours are approximations and should only be used as a general guideline.

Inclusion

All airport/hotel pick up and drop in private car/van
1 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast, Twin sharing 3*
11 Nights stay in Tea House during the trek. It means, sharing the Bathroom.
An experienced English speaking Trekking Guide and a Porter during the trek.
Salary, food, insurance, and lodging cost for guide and porter ( 2 Trekkers-1 Porter )
During the Trek, we will have Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee each time only.
Farewell Meals and Breakfasts while in Kathmandu.
National Park Permit and TIMS for Everest.
Airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla and return flight to Kathmandu and domestic flight departure taxes.
Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag that needs to be returned to the office after trek completion.
ACH Kitbag and T- shirt for you
Ncell Sim Card (Nepalese Sim Card including 20 GB data pack) - Only 1 for a group.

Exclusions

Nepal entry visa fees.
International airfare and departure tax.
Bar bills, laundry, and other expenses of personal nature.
Travel insurance including evacuation.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except farewell.
Tips for local staff, guides, and porters.
Desserts, Hot Shower, Hot Water, Wi-Fi, Mineral Water.

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Expedition Information

$1,499

Gokyo Valley

Trekking

Fitness Level

Technical Level

Group Size

2-10