Everest Base Camp Gokyo Ri Trek

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Ri Trek: A Rewarding Trek through the Less-Visited Gokyo Valley

The trek to the legendary Everest Base Camp and to Gokyo Ri in the Gokyo Valley decorated by the stunning five Gokyo Lakes is not just an ordinary trek in Nepal; it is a transformative trekking experience that seamlessly blends spirituality, natural beauty, and the thrill of physical exertion perfectly. As you traverse the rugged terrain and ascend to higher altitudes, you’ll find that this trek becomes more than just a series of steps—the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek becomes a profound exploration of self-discovery and inner strength.

So if you are visiting Nepal for the first time in your life, and contemplating on trekking to the Everest Base Camp, then add a few more days and trek into the Gokyo Valley via the Chola pass. With the breathtaking combination of the Everest Base Camp and a trek to Gokyo Ri in the pristine Gokyo Valley filled with the five glacial Gokyo Lakes, this trek takes you through the most scenic area of the Nepal Himalayas.

So if you trek to the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Valley and climb Kalapathar and Gokyo Ri, then you have done justice to the Everest Base Camp Gokyo Trek. Especially for someone who is for the first time trekking in Nepal, than it’s really very fulfilling and at the same time rewarding. Trekking amidst the colossal mountains in the world is what makes this trek in Nepal very interesting.

Kalpathar

Kalapathar is the ultimate trekking destination on the Everest Base Camp Gokyo Trek. Towering at an impressive 5,643 meters, the trek to the summit of Kalapathar is challenging, but at the same time this iconic peak offers unparalleled panoramic view of the world’s highest mountain Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and many other peaks along with the Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Glacier. As the highest point on the Everest Base Camp Trek, Kalapathar promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and a sense of personal accomplishment.

Exploring Chola Pass and Gokyo Valley

As the trail from Everest Base Camp leads trekkers through the famous Chola Pass into the pristine Gokyo Valley, a world of hidden gems unfolds before your eyes. Once over the Chola Pass, you leave the Khumbu valley behind and enter the Gokyo Valley. The landscapes shift, revealing a tapestry of rugged beauty, and crossing the Chola pass in itself is very tricky with the ascent trail on scree and a kilometer long Chola Glacier. But once over the Chola pass, lush meadows, towering cliffs, the rugged Nzogumba Glacier, and the tranquil melody of the five Gokyo Lakes create a symphony of natural splendor around the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Conquering Gokyo Ri

The culmination of the Everest Base Camp with a trek in to the Gokyo Valley is the awe-inspiring ascent of Gokyo Ri, a small peak that offers a breathtaking vantage point above the Gokyo Valley. Many trekkers choose to undertake this ascent in the early hours of the morning, greeted by the ethereal glow of the rising sun casting its golden light upon Mount Everest and it’s peaks. As life below in the Gokyo valley awakens, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. From Cho Oyu to Everest, Makalu, Amadablam and Cholatse some of the highest and most iconic peaks in the world.

The Enchanting Five Gokyo Lakes.

The Gokyo Valley is a picturesque paradise, adorned with five breathtaking freshwater lakes known as the Gokyo lakes. These stunning bodies of water hold deep significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Each lake is believed to possess unique spiritual properties and is revered as sacred by the local communities.

According to folklore, the main and the third Gokyo Lake, known as Dudh Pokhari, is said to have the power to wash away the sins of those who bathe in its waters. The fourth Lake, Thonak Tsho, is believed to be the domain of Nagas, mythical serpent-like creatures, adding an air of mystique to the already enchanting surroundings. With its profound spiritual and cultural significance to Hindus and Buddhists, the Everest Base Camp Gokyo Ri Trek seamlessly blends spirituality, natural beauty, and physical exertion perfectly.

Such rich cultural and spiritual tapestries woven into the fabric of the Gokyo Valley make it a destination that transcends mere natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the profound heritage of the region.

Highlights of the Trek

The Everest Base Camp Gokyo Ri Trek combines the best of both worlds, offering you the chance to witness the iconic Everest Base Camp and explore the serene Gokyo Valley, beautified by the stunning five Gokyo Lakes.

Challenge yourself to the 4km round trek to Kalapathar (5550 m), where you’ll be awestruck with an unobstructed view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, alongside the Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Glacier.

The panoramic vistas from Gokyo Ri are equally breathtaking, showcasing the majestic Everest range, including the sixth-highest mountain, Cho Oyu, as well as the captivating Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Village, and the Nzogumba Glacier down below.

The other highlight of this trek is visiting the five Gokyo Lakes that dot the valley floor.  Immerse yourself in the less-trekked Gokyo Valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit the five serene Gokyo Lakes, each offering a unique and enchanting perspective. This combination of the Everest Base Camp and the Gokyo Valley ensures that you experience the best of both worlds, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

How hard and how long is this trek?

The Everest Gokyo Ri Trek is a 16-day strenuous trek that takes you to places more than 5000 m in altitude. In addition to the Chola Pass (5420 m), you climb to more than 5000 m at Gokyo Ri (5360 m), Kalapathar (5550 m), & Everest Base Camp (5364 m). Hiking up to such an altitude is not easy. Moreover, crossing over the Chola Pass and trekking through the Ngozumpa Glacier, where the terrain and trail are a bit tricky, does not make the trek easy either. That being said, this is a difficult trek, and one must be well prepared and trained.

Is this trek dangerous?

Every adventure has it’s own risk to consider, and trekking is an adventure that entails a certain number of risk factors. However, if proper precautions are taken, these risks can be avoided.

Everest Base Camp Gokyo Ri Trek is no exception, but it is not dangerous or risky. Proper acclimatization and having a buffer day to acclimatize will help you overcome the risk factors.

Our itinerary is prepared in such a way that trekkers do not face any problems. In the worst-case scenario, there are helicopter services for evacuation. Moreover, our guides are trained to help you and treat you if you face any problems.

Best Time to Trek in Nepal

While the trek route can be traversed year-round, the prime trekking seasons of March to May and September to November offer the most favourable conditions.

During the spring and autumn months, you’ll be greeted with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks. The hiking trails during the months of April and October November can be crowded.

Though the winter months present a more challenging journey, with sub-zero temperatures, the Everest Gokyo Valley Trek will be less crowded and remains accessible to the experienced and well-prepared trekker.

Whichever season you choose, the Everest Gokyo Valley Trek promises an unforgettable experience, from the awe-inspiring vistas to the cultural richness of the Sherpa communities.

Food on the Trek

Meals served during the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek are typically hearty and filling to provide trekkers with the energy they need for their journey. Dal bhat, a traditional Nepali dish consisting of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables, is a staple meal along the trek route.

Other popular dishes include momos (dumplings), noodles, and fried rice. Trekkers can also find Western options, such as pasta and pizza, in most teahouses. It is important to stay hydrated while trekking, so trekkers are encouraged to drink plenty of water and hot tea throughout the day.

Accommodation on the Trek Route

The Everest Base Camp Gokyo Ri Trek is a tea house trek in Nepal that offers a truly authentic experience. While the initial lodges along the route may have basic shared facilities, the good news is that some have recently upgraded their offerings.

Now, trekkers have the option to book twin-share rooms with attached bathrooms at select lodges. This provides a more comfortable and convenient experience, especially for those who prefer a bit more privacy and amenities. The upgraded lodges still maintain that local, family-run charm, but with the added benefit of en-suite facilities.

The availability of these enhanced accommodations is a testament to the evolving tourism infrastructure in the region. Trekkers can now enjoy the stunning Himalayan scenery and cultural immersion, while also having the option to book lodgings that cater to their personal preferences. It’s the best of both worlds – a genuine tea house trek experience with a touch of modern comfort.

Water

Water is available along the trek route to Everest Base Camp and the Gokyo Valley, and are safe to drink. But bring along water purifying tablets as water borne diseas can spoil your trek. You can ask the lodges to fill in your days supply of water.

Basic Packing Checklist for a Trekker

• 50-55-l Back Pack
• Sleeping Bag
• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottle
• Light Fleece Jacket
• Fleece Pants
• Trekking Pants for Daytime Use
• Pair of ankle-length trekking boots
• Gloves
• Woolen Socks
• Pair of Sandals
• Inner Thermal wear
• Trekking Shirts/T-Shirts
• Rain Jacket
• Wind and Water-Proof Jacket
• Buffs and Woolen Caps
• Cap/Sun Hat
• Sleeping Bag
• Rain Cover for your Back Pack
• Down Jacket
• Personal Belongings
• First Aid Kit

It has been notified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal that as of March 25, 2023, all Flights to Lukla will be operated from Ramechap Airport and not from Kathmandu. Ramechap is approximately 135 km and a four- to five-hour drive from Kathmandu. Ramechap has very few lodges and existing facilities to cater to tourists.

Trek Facts:

• Starting Point: Lukla.
• Ending Point: Lukla.
• Trek duration: 16 days.
• Trek Grade: Moderate to strenuous.
• Maximum altitude: Kalapatthar (5550 m).
• Maximum Sleeping Altitude: Gorakshep (5164 m).
• Minimum group size: 2 pax.
• Trek style: Tea House/Lodge Trek.

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2800 m).
30 Minutes Flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Trek Starts. Trek to Phakding (2652 m/8 km/3 hrs). Overnight Lodge.

Day 02: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m/12 Km-5 hrs). Overnight Lodge.

Day 03: Rest Day at Namche Bazaar for Acclimatization.
Side Trek to Khunde-Khumjung (3780 m/4 Km-2 hrs). Overnight Lodge.

Day 04: Trek to Thyangboche Monastery (3860 m/12 Km-6 hrs). Overnight Lodge.

Day 05: Trek to Dingboche (4410 m/11 Km-5 hrs). Overnight Lodge.

Day 06: Rest and acclimatization day at Dingboche (4410 m).
Optional hike around Dingboche. Overnight Lodge.

Day 07: Trek to Lobuche (4910 m/9 km/6 hours). Overnight Lodge.

Day 08: Lobuche to Gorakshep (5140 m/3.7 km/2 hours). Afternoon trek up the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp (5364 m/11 km). Return to Gorakshep (5140 m). Overnight Lodge. Total time: 7-8 hours.

Day 09: Trek up to Kalapathar (5550 m/4.2 km/3 hours . round trip) for panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Khumbu Glacier, and many other peaks. Return to Gorakshep. After breakfast, trek to Dzongla (4830 m/12 km/6 hours). Overnight Lodge.

Day 10: Trek Dzongla-Chola pass (5330 m) to Dragnag (4790 m/14 km/8–9 hours).

Trek over the Cho La pass (5330 m) to the small settlement of Dragnag (4790 m). Overnight Lodge.

Day 11: Trek Dragnag to Gokyo Valley (4790 m/6 km/3 hours). Overnight Lodge.

Trek across Ngumpa Glacier to Gokyo Valley.

Day 12: Morning climb Gokyo-Ri (5360 m/6 Km-3 Hrs. round trip). Return to Gokyo. Visit 5th.Lake. Overnight Lodge.

Day 13: Trek Gokyo Valley to Dole ( 4200 m/12 km/6 hours).

Early in the morning, climb Gokyo Ri (5360) for views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and many other mountains (6 km round trip, 4 hours). After breakfast, trek down the Gokyo valley past the settlements of Macherrmo and Luza and into Dole. Overnight Lodge.

Day 14: Trek down to Namche Bazaar (3440 m, 14 km, 7 hours). Overnight Lodge.

Day 15: Trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Overnight Lodge.

Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu. End of Everest Base Camp Gokyo Valley Trek.

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•  Everest Gokyo Valley Trek Cost : US$ 1200 per person
• Ramechap-Lukla-Ramechap Airfare : US$328 per person
• Ramechap-Lukla-Ramechap: Airfare for Indian Nationals : Indian Rupee 13,000/Person
• Airfare is extra, as applicable, & is subject to change without prior notice.
• Indian nationals should kindly inquire within for quotes in Indian rupees.

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EVEREST BASE CAMP GOKYO RI TREK COSTS:

•  Cost : US$ 1300 per person
• Ramechap-Lukla-Ramechap Airfare : US$328 per person
• Ramechap-Lukla-Ramechap Airfare for Indian Nationals : Indian Rupee 13,000/Person
• Airfare is extra, as applicable, & is subject to change without prior notice.
• Indian nationals should kindly inquire within for quotes in Indian rupees.

TREK COST INCLUDES:

• Trek guide and porters to carry luggage.
• Lodge accommodation (twin share rooms) with breakfast.
• Trek permit fees.
• Khumbu Entry Fees.
• Sagarmatha National Park Fees.
• Contribution to guide transport.
• Food and Lodging for the Guide

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• Hotel Stays in Kathmandu.
• Lunches and dinners during the trekking period.
• Domestic flights cost extra as applicable (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathamndu).
• Sleeping bag (which can be hired in Kathmandu).
• Personal clothing and equipment.
• Meals in Kathmandu.
• Tips.
• Client insurance of any kind.
• Cost of evacuation (if any) in case of emergency.
• Bottled/alcoholic drinks.
• Snacks/desserts.
• Tea or coffee, other than at breakfast.
• Airport taxes;
• Expenses of personal nature

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Our trek price includes basic rooms in local lodges, which have simple 2 bedded rooms with common toilets. Some places, like Lukla, Namche, Tengboche, and Dingboche, have newly upgraded lodges with attached toilets, but this will cost extra (about US$20–30 per room per night). Some lodges now offer even better rooms, but they can cost even more.

NEPAL TOURIST VISA

• Nepal visa is readily available on arrival at the International Airport in Kathmandu and at all other entry points to Nepal.
• Two passport photos will be required.
• Single-entry visa: US$30 per visa (valid for 60 days).
• Multiple entry visa: US$ 80 per visa (valid for 150 days).
• Nepal visa is also available at all Nepalese embassies and consulates.
• No Visa is required for Indian Citizens to Travel in Nepal

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Recommendation: The trek is relatively strenuous and demands top physical form. A physical fitness check-up is a must. Even the experienced trekker should prepare for 2-3 months prior to the trek.

Note: The above itinerary is a sample, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors, such as weather, road conditions, the physical abilities of the participants, etc., may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of the trip participant’s safety, comfort, and general well-being. This itinerary can be customized as per one’s needs.

(All relevant Terms and Conditions apply.)