Gokyo Ri trekking is known as the Gokyo Lake Trek in the Everest region. Gokyo Valley trek, or Gokyo peak trek, is an alternative trekking route to the classic Everest Base Camp trek. We offer the Gokyo Ri Trek, offering panoramic Everest views, fewer crowds, and a peaceful Himalayan experience beyond the base camp route at the best price. You will see the Best view of Mt Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This Gokyo Ri trek can be completed in 13 days. Gokyo Ri trek is perfect for those who looking for challenges and a less crowded trekking route in the Everest region. This trek offers the best view of Mt Everest and the surrounding mountain peaks. Gokyo Valley is a hidden treasure of the Everest region that offers impressive views of Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Valley, icy rivers, glaciers, and snow-capped pinnacles like Everest (8848m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8501m), Pumori (7145m) and Makalu (8463m). The major attraction of the trek is the Gokyo Lake, comprising six other lakes covering an area of 7770 hectares. The trekking trail to the Gokyo Ri initially follows the same trail as the Everest Base Camp trek up to Sans, Just Above Namche Bazaar, a junction between EBC and Gokyo Valley, and then separates to Mongla pass, from where trekkers can enjoy captivating sights of Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and Mt. Khumbila. During the journey, trekkers will see the Sherpa ethnic village settlement of Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Longpongo Lake (4690m), and Ngozumpa glacier Moraine until you arrive at the final destination of the trip, Gokyo Peak/Gokyo Ri. Once you summit the peak, you can enjoy the astonishing sights of Everest (8848m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8501m), Pumori (7145m), Ngozumpa Glacier (the world's biggest ice glacier), and Gokyo lake all at once, unlike the Everest trek where you have to hike to Kalapathar to enjoy the 360-degree panorama of the Everest.
Located on the rim of the Everest Region, Gokyo Ri (5357m) is one of the popular trekking destinations of the Khumbu region and the best alternative to the commercialized Everest base camp trek. The 14-day Gokyo Ri trek starts from Lukla and winds off to the majestic Everest region with a scenic Lukla Flight.
Trekking in the Everest region is not all about the sights you get to enjoy, but also about the warm hospitality provided by the Sherpa community. Here at Beyond the Limit Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., we offer the best customized trekking packages for solo couples, families, and corporate group trekkers. So if you are already planning for your trip to Nepal, let us help you plan it better.
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is the most widely known trek in the Everest Region, and most people immediately think of the EBC trek when planning a trek in the region. But if you are looking for a less-crowded trek alternative to Everest Base Camp, the Gokyo Ri trek offers a serene, scenic, and equally rewarding experience.
Both the EBC and Gokyo RI treks will provide you with magnificent Himalayan views. However Gokyo RI trek will take you to beautiful glacial turquoise Gokyo Lakes and cross the famous Ngozumba glacier (the longest glacier in Nepal) and Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Manaslu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, 4 of the world's six highest peaks, which are above 8000 meters.
In comparison, the Everest Base Camp Trek will take you famous Everest Base Camp where people camp and train before the Everest Summit, and offers a spectacular viewpoint of Kalapatthar, but it lacks the stunning lake landscapes and less crowded trail that Gokyo provides.
The Gokyo trekking route offers a more peaceful trekking experience compared to the EBC route. This route has fewer trekkers and quieter teahouses along the route. Trekkers who are more interested in an off-the-beaten-path Gokyo route would be ideal for them. Though Everest Base Camp Trek is a more iconic trek compared to Gokyo RI Trek, it could be crowded especially during peak seasons like in October and April.
If you are someone who is looking for a trek to Mount Everest and who wants solitude along the trail, pristine alpine lakes, and unique landscape,s then Gokyo Lakes vs Everest Base Camp is an easy choice to choose the Gokyo Ri trek wins for its uniqueness and tranquility.
If we compare both treks on their difficulty Everest Base Camp Trek is considered more difficult than the Gokyo Ri Trek because of its steep ascents, while the Gokyo trek is a more gradual ascent. Both treks are considered strenuous level trekking, reaching above 5000 meters. Gokyo Ri Trek max altitude is 5357m in Gokyo Ri viewpoint while Everest Base Camp Trek max altitude is at Kalapatthar (5,545m).
Trekking from March to May and September to December means you will not be a victim of harsh climatic conditions, as the temperature during this season is relatively warmer, and you can enjoy the bits of nature to the fullest.
However, trekking in June and August means constant pouring and slippery trails that are enough to cause a nuisance to your trekking experience. Similarly, trekking from January to February means heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. But, the positive side of trekking during this time is that you can get rooms at a cheaper rate, and the trail is less crowded, meaning trekkers can explore nature and click marvelous pictures without getting photobombed.
If you are an experienced trekker, you might know the importance of acclimatization during the trip. Making your itinerary longer is always a better plan than cutting it short. If you decrease the trekking days with no acclimatization, you will be walking more hours than on average. The continuous walk through the varying elevations can cause various health hazards, like altitude sickness.
Hence, choosing a trekking package that allows you to acclimatize your body during the trek and offers a 4-6 hour walk on average is the best package for you.
✔ Hydrate and acclimatize properly to reduce the chances of getting altitude sickness
✔ If you are a novice trekker, make sure that you have built the stamina required for the trek
✔ Always trek during the peak season when the weather is pleasant and the temperature is warmer
✔ Hire a licensed guide for a safe and secure trek
✔ Don’t over- or under-pack.
Just like the other treks of Nepal, the best months to do the Gokyo Ri trek are during the spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-December). During this season, the weather is clear and warm, and the trekking trail is adorned with blossoming flowers, making the trip even more fantastic.
January-February (Winter)
January to February is the coldest period when the temperature can decrease to -15 degrees Celsius. The heavy snowfall and freezing temperature, but the sights of the snow-capped pinnacles make it all worthwhile on a clear day. Another fascinating thing about trekking in the winter season is that the trail is less crowded, and you can enjoy every spot the way you like. This time is best for trekkers who want to skip the hassle of trekking on a crowded trail.
March-May (Spring)
It is the best time to go for the Gokyo Ri trek as the temperature is favorable, and trekkers can enjoy the outstanding sights of the Himalayas as well as glaciers. The trails look lovely with the blooming rhododendron, lilies, drumstick primrose, kumaon iris, silky rose (jungali gulaf), and others.
June-August (Monsoon)
The June-August period is monsoon here in Nepal. The trek is enjoyable, but due to the heavy rainfall, the chances of a Lukla flight cancellation from Kathmandu are very high. Since it's monsoon, very few trekkers who want to witness the dramatic side of the Himalayas trek during the season. Hence, the trail is empty, and nature will be at its best after the fresh rain shower.
September-December (Autumn)
September to December are the best months for the Gokyo Ri trek. The temperature rises to 5 degrees at night and hence is relatively warmer. Gokyo trek in October is considered the best time to trek Gokyo Ri. Trekking during this time means you will not only be able to enjoy the panoramic sights of the Himalayas but will also get an opportunity to witness the biggest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar. The whole mood and weather during this time are pleasing and energetic.
The Gokyo Ri trek can cost according to the service you will Take. Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition offer a different standard of the package depending upon various factors like:
You can skip the hassle of calculating the breakdown cost and buy a trekking package that includes all your trekking expenses like accommodation, transportation, food costs, and permit costs. Other than these, the costs of the following are not included in the packages of trekking companies, so you might want to have a look at them.
Gokyo Ri Trek is a guest house/ lodge trek. The rooms will be basic with little furniture and clean washrooms. Keep in mind that washrooms will be on a shared basis. You will get food served as per the menu of the guest house/lodge house. You will find Nepali, Indian, and Tibetan cuisines. Besides that, you can also buy bars and snack items on the trail. Make sure to carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it every time it gets empty.
During this trek, you will be trekking at a higher elevation. Hence, we recommend you have a reliable insurance plan covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation Medical up to 5000m.
Together with this, ensure that the insurance covers trip cancellation or any other damage to make the trip safe and secure. The insurance cost depends on the policy you choose. if you need any help finding out the Insurance company, let us know
The most important thing you need to consider during your trip is the list of equipment you will need. A trekking checklist includes gear like trekking boots, jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and other items. If you don't have these items, you can easily rent them from the local shop in Nepal. The price for renting the gear ranges from USD 1-5 (Per item) based on the quality and type of equipment you want to rent.
Other than the ones mentioned in the above list, there are some extra miscellaneous costs that you might have to consider during the trip. This cost includes buying souvenirs, tipping, hot water, wifi, and charging ports.
The following itinerary is more of a guideline for the trek, which could be changed in case of emergency, unforeseen circumstances, or the client's request during the trek.
If departure day does not match with your travel dates please feel free to contact us directly, we are very flexible to accommodate to your schedule.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu through Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a representative from Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition P. Ltd will receive you and escort you to your Hotel. After check-in, you’ll be visited by your trekking guide to carry out the final preparation for the trip. Overnight stay at Kathmandu in Kathmandu with Bed and Breakfast 3-star Hotel standard.
Today is a Trekking Preparation Day for your Gokyo Ri Trekking. you will do last-minute shopping and final check your trekking equipment with our Trek leaders. Our Trekking Leader will give you a briefing about the flowing program and necessary equipment and then you can do sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley yourself If you like to arrange with us let us know Overnight sleep at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today in the morning after breakfast you will fly for Lukla which is 2804m high. The domestic airlines take around 35 minutes flight to reach Lukla airport from Kathmandu. From the first week of October to the last week of November and the first week of March to the last week of May the flight moved to Manthali Airport Ramechhap Because of Busy air traffic. The Lukla airport is named by Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Lukla is a small but beautiful village, we take some time to meet our crew and manage the baggage. Through the Lukla village, we start our adventurous journey to Phakding which lies at an altitude of 2610m. The never-seen vegetation and the dramatic hillside on the way through Dudh Koshi add inspiration to trekking of Gokyo Lake trek. Until we reach Phakding you can see the various long old monasteries placed on the beautiful village and the way. In this day we will manage breakfast, lunch, and dinner Overnight at the Hotel.
we will set out for Namche bazaar After having breakfast at Phakdingwe start our trek with partners and friends. The day is a little different than the trek from Lukla to Phakding. Somewhere we walk uphill and somewhere downhill. The interesting thing is we cross Dudh Koshi time and again. On the way, we reach the beautiful Benkar village, where views of Mt. Thamserku give you happiness. In continuous walking, we ascend at Monjo, which is the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. At Monjo, the official keep your trekking records by checking your permits. We should walk more to reach Namche Bazaar through Jorsale. Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Tawache, and Kusum Kangaru are the major views of mountains that can be seen on this route. After walking 5/6 hours from Phakding we can reach the colorful beautiful village of Namche Bazaar. Overnight at Namche bazaar (3440m.) with B, L, D.
Today is acclimatization day, which you can spend your day relaxing in Namche Bazaar, resting and acclimatizing. According to health experts, we have to get enough Acclimatization and rest for the long-run trekking. Namche Bazaar has most of the facilities. You can get government offices, email and internet, ATMs, shops, bakeries, restaurants, etc. You also get a chance to visit the Tourist visitor center in Namche Bazaar, our guide take you there. The information about various mountains, their characteristics, the vegetation available in high mountains, information about Sagarmatha National Park, and the wildlife and birds available in the national park can also be found. evening dinner and have a good sleep
If you are interested in optional hiking, we will be hiking to the Shyangboche Everest View Hotel, enjoy a beautiful view of Mount Everest from the Everest View Hotel, and hike back down to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.
After having breakfast in Namche we start our trek in a romantic mood to Dole Village with close-up views of Thamserku and Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other magnificent views of hidden Himalayas. By seeing wild animals like Himalayan thar and deer we reached the junction of Everest base camp and Gokyo valley, named Sansa. We cross the Mongla and pass the best viewpoint for Phortse village from where we can view the superb views of Thamserku, Ama dablam, and Mt. Khumbila. We go ahead down to Phorse Tenga and climb up to the dole. Overnight to Lodgein Dole (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner )
Today we start our trek after breakfast. On the way, you can see the unbeatable scene of various flora and fauna as well as wild creatures with unexpected encounters. You can see the continuous flow of Dudh Koshi from the middle of the beautiful village. This village Machhermo not only gives you the ancient picture of early Khumbuwan people but also a chance to see the local culture and heritage. If you feel hesitant because of physical sickness, you can check your problem at Himalayan Rescue Hospital in Machhermo. When we reach Mochhermo, our targeted trekking hour will be finished. You will stay overnight in Machhermo and the management of living, dining, and breakfast will be managed by Trek leader of Beyond the Limits Treks. Overnight at the Hotel (breakfast Lunch and dinner )
Today is Acclimatization Day at Machhermo. Today you have an easy day. this is very important for your Trekking in Gokyo Valley to make it successful without any high altitude sickness. you can Hike to Machhermo Valley Hike one of the hills return to Machhermo and have lunch make an easy day (4470m)
Today, our attraction will be Chorten. You can see the northern part of Cho Oyu and Mr Thamserku as well as down of Gokyo valley. After some walk, we reach Pangka (4480m.) and trek through the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. We can see the Lama's footprints on a stone after passing the first lake of Gokyo Valley, Longpongo. Likewise, we can pass the second lake named Taboche Tsho, which is interesting. The surging stream links the third lake named Gokyo Cho. Gokyo village is situated on the northern shore of Dudh Pokhari. We will be busy on to explore the village and another adventurous place, lake, and scene.
Today is summit day for Gokyo Ri, probably the best viewpoint in the Everest area to see Mt. Everest and its surroundings. you will see 360-degree mountain views including Mt Everest, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, Cho you, Ghajungkang glacier, and the beautiful lake of Gokyo valley. after this you will return to the hotel have breakfast and trek down to Machermo for an overnight
This Day you will back to the tree line where you will find greenery that you missed higher up. Gaining more Oxygen back to your body you may feel so strong and fit to walk up and down. Encountering some amazing flora and fauna on the side of Mt Khumbila and on the bank of Dudh Koshi River gives you great opportunities to see their life and struggle in a mountainous region. At night you can have western nightlife in Namche going to some coffee shops and bars run at Namche bazaar by local Sherpa people.
Today is the last day of the walk as well as the last opportunity to see the beautiful jungle, Mountains, Sherpa village, and regular beautiful chants of the Dudh Koshi River. During your walk back to Lukla you will pass the Village of Tawa, Monjo, Benker, Tok Tok, Phakding, Ghat, Thado Koshi and Cheplung may a chance to see lots of prayer wheels, Flags, and carved stones beautifully will reminds you that you are in the land of Buddhist and Adventurous Sherpas and their traditional relay with nature and life.
Today before having our breakfast we have to go to Tenzing Hillary airport to fly back to Kathmandu, ending our all-hard but amazing trek of Khumbu Valley. During your fly, you may have another chance to have a long view of the Himalayas (Mt Numbur, Mt Gauri Shankar, Mt Langtang, and Ganesh Himal) starting from east to west until your flight lands at Kathmandu airport. After you land you will transfer to your hotel by our vehicle.
Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition Enhance your experience with these customizable options. Whether you are looking Private tour. If you like to take a Porter, if you like to fly in and out from Tenzing Hillary Airport, Lukla by Helicopter, if you like to have a private attached bathroom for extra comfort, cultural immersion, or adventure, we’ve got something for everyone.
How to add options for your Everest Base Camp Trek?
If our Departure date is not suitable for you makye your own Departure for Private Gokyo ri trekking
Nepal has four seasons. The peak seasons for trekking in Nepal are October to December and March to May. These are the busiest times to trek to Gokyo Ri trek. In our 25 years of experience, the weather conditions in November and December remain better. Everybody says it is because of global warming. However, as a local company in Nepal, we would like to give you an insight into the last five years. In the last ten years, the weather conditions in Nepal have changed. Now we recommend tourists from November to December and May to June for the perfect trekking environment. It could be a bit chilly, but the sky is clear for tourists to gaze upon the magnificent Mount Everest region .
During the monsoon season from June to September, trails can be slippery, poor visibility and flights to and out of Lukla are often delayed or canceled. If you are looking to trek during winter, then it's best to know some of the remaining Open No Problem for fooding and accommodation. Those who like this challenge can experience and enjoy an uncrowded trek.
While trekking at an elevated altitude, there is a high chance of Altitude sickness. As you move to the upper region, the oxygen level gets thinner, resulting in difficulty breathing. Hence, while you are trekking above 4000-5000m, make sure that you acknowledge the early signs and symptoms of altitude sickness. Ask for help with the Guide before your health condition gets worse. Resting and hydrating are the only ways to cure altitude sickness, but if rest does not work, you will have to descend to a lower altitude and end the trip.
Please Note: Lukla Flights are departing and returning to Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu from the 1st of April to the end of May and the 1st of October until the end of November due to busy Air Traffic in Kathmandu Airport. It's about a 4-hour drive to Ramechhap from Kathmandu so we will get started for the airport around 2 am. The return drive at the end of the trek is between 3-4 Hours, depending on traffic.
- Airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla USD 224 one way so Kathmandu Lukla Kathmandu USD 248
- Airfare Ramechhap Manthali USD177 one way total Airfare Ramechhap Lukla Ramechhap USD354
The Gokyo Ri trekking is fully customizable. Your satisfaction is our top priority. If our standard service falls short of your expectations, we are happy to give you the choice to upgrade your accommodations and services to your unique needs.
Additionally, if you have created a personalized itinerary that perfectly matches your journey preferences, we greatly appreciate your proactive effort and will work to give you the greatest options possible to make the trip better. Let Us Know if you have a big group.
You can be confident that Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition will provide an outstanding experience as you set out on an exciting adventure through the magnificent Everest Region. Our knowledge, competence, and steadfast dedication ensure that your vacation will be full of long-lasting memories.
Please Note That the service and Price we provide on our website is 3 3-star Standard Hotel in Kathmandu. If you want to upgrade your Kathmandu hotel, please let us know. We always customize our packages to our clients' interests.
Gokyo Ri trekking, 13 days, requires careful preparation. Having the right gear for Trekking can make a Big difference between a challenging adventure and a comfortable, unforgettable journey. Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition suggests comprehensive and essential equipment.
During the Gokyo Ri trek, you will be at the maximum elevation of 5357m at Gokyo Ri. Trekking at such a high altitude means trekkers might face different health complications like altitude sickness. Hence, having insurance covering your medical fees, trip cancellation, accidents, thefts, and emergency helicopter evacuation will allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
On average, you will be walking 5-6 hours a day during the Gokyo Ri Trekking.
The menu available during the trip mainly includes local dishes and a mix of Asian and Western cuisines sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients for the trek. We highly recommend our trekkers to include liquid food in their diets and avoid meat products and consumption of alcoholic beverages as they may upset their stomachs. And also, make sure that the water you are drinking is purified.
The foods prepared in the teahouses are not only nutritious but are also hygienic. So do enjoy every items listed on the menu.
During your journey to Gokyo Ri, you will be accommodated in teahouses that offers two kind of accommodation. One is a basic twin bed sharing accommodation facility and other one is with a private bathroom. There is a slight difference in the price range however, the teahouses are clean and has comfortable beds for a nice sleep. The teahouses are well equipped to allow you to use hot water and WIFI. However, you have to pay an extra charge to use these services.
Note: During the peak season, finding a room is pretty hard, the last minute teahouse booking means you might end up sleeping in the dorm room. Hence, make sure to buy trekking package that already includes accommodation cost in the teahouse.
The key to successful trekking is to start and end the trek at the same pace. Meaning, that beginners with no previous trekking experience can also complete the Gokyo Ri trek if they follow a simple rule, slow and steady wins the race. As long as you are determined and avoid alcoholic beverages, drink enough water, and acclimatize properly, both beginners and experienced trekkers can complete the trek.
However, we request our trekkers to prepare their bodies by starting their cardio training 5-6 months before the trek. They can do jogging, hiking, swimming, cycling, and others.
Some of the teahouses at higher altitudes offer WIFI services to the trekkers. But, the service is not free, and you will be charged a certain amount as allocated by the owners.
The Gokyo trek is a moderately challenging trek in Nepal that does not require technical skills. Trekkers will be walking 5-6 hours on average through steep hills and rough downhills of the Himalayas. Some of the trails are demanding. Otherwise, the trek can be completed by anyone with decent physical fitness and previous trekking experience.
However, if this is your first trek, we recommend you to do enough cardio exercises and short hikes before you sign up for the trip.
Yes, trekkers can customize the itinerary of the Gokyo trek according to their interests or the time they will be staying in Nepal. Trekkers can add EBC trek with Gokyo Ri trek if they have an extra few days in Nepal or can add other tours or make the trip short, all you have to do is provide us with your available days, and we will plan the best trip for you.
I was more than impressed with the way the team responded to all of my queries while I was booking the Gokyo trip online. Once I met the team and my guide, I was sure that this trip was going...
I signed up for a solo trek with Beyond the Limit Treks, and had the best trekking experience with affordable Gokyo Ri Cost. My Guide Jeet Bahadur was super helpful, knowledgeable, kind, positive, and energetic. Since I was carrying a...
