Home » Everest Region Trekking » Everest Gokyo Ri Trek

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Trip Fact

  • tripfact-icon
    Trip Style : Guided Trekking
  • tripfact-icon
    Trip Difficulty : Streneous Plus
  • tripfact-icon
    Trip Guide : Local Sherpa Guides
  • tripfact-icon
    Destination : Everest, Nepal
  • tripfact-icon
    Max Altitude : 5,480 Meters (17,979Ft)
  • tripfact-icon
    Daily Walking Hours : Approx. 4-6 Hours Walking
  • tripfact-icon
    Accomodation: Teahouse/Guesthouse
  • tripfact-icon
    Food : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner(BLD)
  • tripfact-icon
    Start-End : Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu
  • tripfact-icon
    Transport : Private Car, Bus, Van & Flights
  • tripfact-icon
    Best Season : Mid February to June and September to early December

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Overview

Everest Gokyo Ri trek is comparatively the less traveled trekking trails in the Everest Region but has a marvelous view and less traveled majestic places to offer to its trekkers. The trek to Everest Gokyo Ri takes us to the remote valley of Gokyo and its beautiful turquoise lakes, moonscape-like glaciers, and breathtaking mountain views including Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu; four of the eight highest peaks in the world! Gokyo Ri is truly one of the most memorable trips in the region as it offers a splendid 360-degree view of the lofty mountains which is undoubtedly the best view in the Khumbu Region.

Nepal has been an aspiration for a lot of climbers and adventure seekers throughout the world. The majestic mountain region of Nepal consists of a number of mountain vistas including the Gokyo Valley.

The best season to trek towards the Gokyo Ri would be spring and autumn when nature showers its love to the place. During that favorable season, the trek features an outstanding view of the shining peaks, white glaciers and the sprinkling blend of blue and green water of the lakes which is simply breathtaking.

The mountains that you see along the way is Mt. Everest (8848 m), Mt. Lhotse (8516 m), Mt. Makalu (8481 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8201 m), Mt. Nuptse (7879 m), Mt. Pumori (7161 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6856 m), Mt. Kantega (6,809 m) and Mt. Kwangde (6, 194 m).

Everest Gokyo Ri trek is a passionate and strenuous trek that requires good physical fitness and the initial trail towards Gokyo Ri is almost the same as in the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Everest Gokyo Ri Trek begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is the gateway to the Everest Region. After a half an hour’s flight to Lukla, we head towards Namche Bazaar passing through the beautiful Dudh Koshi River. Namche Bazaar is a popular trading center in the Khumbu region and people walk from Tibet every Saturday to sell their homemade products here.

The town is also the hub onto which each trail converges, so exotic trekkers, yaks, mules, and local Sherpa people compete for space in this amphitheater-style town. After two proper days of acclimatization, we embark on the main busy trail of the region that leads us towards PhortseTenga, Dole and Machhermo. We will head up towards the valley leaving the usual Everest trail and following the river’s runoff from the Ngozumpa glacier.

We encounter another stopover at the village of Machhermo after two days of heavy walk after which we rest for the day. We might want to take this chance to hike up to MachhermoRi for an outstanding view of the mountains. Our next stop from here will be the ever mesmerizing, Gokyo Lake.

Gokyo Ri trekking holidays highlight the mesmerizing turquoise lakes that follow us every day for three days as we walk towards the Gokyo village. It sits at the foot of Gokyo Ri (5480 m), a huge black mound of rock and dirt. Gokyo Lakes are located in the Khumjung Village of Solukhumbu district in north-eastern Nepal.

The beauty of the Gokyo village is a blend of moonscape-like glaciers and most importantly the magical holy lakes which is incredible and simply awe-inspiring. The next morning, we hike up to the summit of the Gokyo Ri which takes us about 3 hours to reach. We witness a dramatic panoramic view of the gigantic Himalayas from the vantage point of this area.

The Himalayas stand like giants guarding the border to Tibet. After exploring the Gokyo Ri we descend directly towards Machhermo, Namche, Lukla and then take a flight back to Kathmandu.

Everest Gokyo Ri trekking tour is a trek worth trying as the breathtaking sight of the 360 panoramic views of the mountain vistas along with the shiny turquoise blue water between them is truly astonishing.

Trip Highlights

  • Enjoy the marvelous scenery of the remote Gokyo Valley and its beautiful turquoise lakes, moonscape-like glaciers, and breathtaking mountain views including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu; four of the eight highest peaks in the world!
  • The 360degree view from Gokyo Ri (5480mm) is the best in the Khumbu region!
  • Travel through the hub, onto which each trail converges, so exotic trekkers, yaks, mules, and Local Sherpa people compete for space in this amphitheater-style town
  • Experience the three-day hike to Gokyo village which sits at the foot of Gokyo Ri (5480m) a huge black mound of rock and dirt
  • Enjoy the glorious views of many of the other over 8000meter mountains
  • Enjoy the three-hour hike to the summit of this black, rocky mound to witness the 360-degree Himalayan view offered only from this vantage point.

Arrive at the Kathmandu airport, meet one of our trek leaders, welcome reception and transfer to the hotel, rest of the time will be on your own. In the evening, our trek leader will come to brief you about the Gokyo Ri trip. Overnight at hotel.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • itinery-iconMeals: BB
  • itinery-iconPlace: Kathmandu
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:1,350m

Breakfast at hotel, we begins a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual sites in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered world heritage sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous monkey temple ( Swayambhunath) and Buddhists shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the large Stupas in the world. In the evening, there will be a small meeting and briefing about your great trek to Gokyo Ri. Overnight at hotel.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • itinery-iconMeals: BB
  • itinery-iconPlace: Kathmandu
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:1,350m

Early breakfast at hotel, drive to the domestic terminal, fly to Lukla, 30 mins mountain flight. As soon as we arrive at the Lukla airport, we walk down to Phanking village, 3 hours hike. Overnight at Guesthouse.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Lukla to Phakding
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:2,860m,2,640m

Breakfast at guest house, we start our hike a bit early passing the beautiful Sherpa villages crossing the Hillary Bridge and 2 hours of breathtaking climb to reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight at guesthouse in Namche.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Namche bazaar
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:3,445m

We have 2 nights in Namche Bazaar which is the main hub of the Khumbu region that has banks, ATMs, government office, internet cafes, outdoor gear shops, restaurants, bakery and a colorful market every Friday evening and Saturday morning. After breakfast, we start the day visiting Sherpa Museum near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National park where can observe as assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region. We also take an interesting side trio up to Khumjhng and also climb up to famous airstrip at Syangboche. Just above the airstrip is the Everest view hotel from where we can enjoy the great views of the highest mountains in the world. Visit to Hillary School which is located at the site will be highlights of the trip. We can have lunch over here. After lunch, descend to Namche Bazaar, overnight at hotel or guest house.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Namche bazaar
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:3,445m

After breakfast, we start our adventure hike enjoying superb views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and close up view of Thamserku. The trek follows on the gradual trail with few ups and downs overlooking magnificent view of the great Himalaya. Along the way, we may have a chance to see wild lives such as pheasant, musk deer, or a herd of Himalayan Thar. The path eventually reaches Sansa which is the major trail junction to Gokyo valley and Everest Base Camp. We trek gradual goes up through Mongla pass (3,975 m) from where we glimpse Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Tawoche and Mt. Khumbila. Sherpas regard Mt. Khumbila as sacred mountain of the patron god of the Khumbu area. Descending to Dudhkosi Khola (3,250 m), we cross a bridge and again trek up through the rhododendron forest, a host for Himalayan wild deer and musk deer. Finally, we arrive to the walled fields of Phorse. Phorse is just under the snow dusted peaks of Tawoche and Cholaste. From here, a short trek leads to Phorse village where we spend our overnight at guest house.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Phorse Village
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:3,810 m

After breakfast, we start our pleasant hike to Dole, a small place with few teahouses. Further, we climb steadily up through a scenic ridge above Dole and the trail climbs via Lhabarma. Offering us good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku the trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza (4,360 m). While ascending from Luza, we will be at the Dudh Koshi valley. Walking along the hill side above thundering Dudkoshi, passing through some small hamlets and through sandy spurs, we reach Machhermo. Machhermo is the last major settlement on the way up to Gokyo Ri. Overnight at guest house in Machhermo.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Machhermo
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:4,450m

Today, we climb through a ridge Chorten from where we can see splendid view of both down the valley and of the Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8,153m). Beyond the ridge the valley widens as the trail passes through a Chorten and reaches Pangka (4,480m) after some gentle walk. We descend to the river bank before beginning to climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier. It is a steep climb on the moraine. Upon crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trial levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4,690m. At this juncture, we get chance to observe the Lama footprints on a stone. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho we become mesmerized by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two linked by a surging stream. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an amazing spectacular sight here. After lunch, we explore around the third Lakes. Overnight at guest house in Gokyo valley.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Gokyo valley
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:4,800m

Today is an acclimatization day but we know we should not stay idle. If the weather is good, we grasp the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri today instead of next day to enjoy the scene from the best viewpoint of Everest Region. Or, as we know Gokyo is not only popular for its grand view but also for the six lakes which it hosts. Definitely we would not miss the chance to observe the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho) and fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). About 3 km north of Gokyo is the fourth lake with its high cliffs and peaks rising above it. The trail continues to fifth lake. If interested, we climb on a hill at the edge of the Lakes to get astounding views of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makulu. We can see a lot more from here - the spot is called Scoundrel's Viewpoint. Beyond the fifth Lakes is the Cho Oyu Base Camp. Northern part of the fifth lake provides fabulous views of Cho-Oyu Base Camp and biggest glacier of the world- the Ngazumpa glacier. Moved by the charm, we may even try to go sixth lake too but depends upon our own interest and time. Back to Gokyo village. Overnight at guest house.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Fifth lakes
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:5,480m

The way back from Gokyo is an easy downhill walk along the Dudh Koshi River that emerges out of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Passing by the second and then the first Gokyo Lakes, we come to a small gushing stream over an iron bridge. We see the hamlet of Phangka ahead. Cholatse and Taboche peaks rear up on the right of us. The trail descends below Phangka, and across a level terrace on the slope to climb a rib on the far side of the hill side. Upon reaching the Chorten at the edge, we see great views of Thamserku, Cho Oyu, and Kangtega. We slowly walk down to sprawling village of Machhermo. Again, through the charming hamlet of Luza and Lhafarma we reach Dole. Overnight at guest house in Dole.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Dole
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:3,800m

Taking last inspection back to Cho Oyu range, we start steep descent to Phortse Tenga. Our hike today is mostly down hills. The most outstanding feature of the trail is the abundance of plant and animal vegetation including wildflowers and Rhododendrons. We might spot faunas like mountain goats, musk deers, pheasants, etc. Waterfalls are also today`s attraction. Upon reaching MongLa, we will be greeted by a very wonderfully located lovely place perched on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. We take revised look at Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and a distant view of Tengboche. After a bit of long distance walk, we reach an intersection where the steep path up from Sanasa meets our trail, now, the trail to Namche clings to the steep wooded slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends. Upon coming to Namche army camp hill, we look back to see Lhotse, the tip of Everest and Tengboche for one last time. About a kilometer from here is Namche Bazaar. We take hot shower and let rest our tired muscles at a comfortable lodge in Namche. Overnight at hotel or guest house.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Namche
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:3,445m

The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk slowly as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail becomes more level and natural. By today, we start to get warmed up by the light breeze. Any remaining sore throats and colds will be gone by today as we pass through this charming mountain air. Although we are travelling the same route down, we feel completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We walk through the Sherpa villages' noticing impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag. Overnight at hotel in Lukla.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Teahouse/guest house
  • itinery-iconMeals: BLD
  • itinery-iconPlace: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:2,860m

The scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, finally we are in the city. The early morning flight drops us in Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. In the evening we invited you to join a fare well dinner host by one of our team leaders. Celebrate the Everest Gokyo Ri trek with delicious meals, drinks and live culture show. Overnight at hotel.

  • itinery-iconAccommodation: Hotel
  • itinery-iconMeals: Breakfast and Dinner
  • itinery-iconPlace: Kathmandu
  • itinery-iconMaximum Altitude:1.350m

After breakfast, we will drop you to international airport for your flight back to home. We wish you have a safe and sound flight. See you again in the future.

Want to Tailor this itinerary?

  • small-thumbnails The entire airport picks up and drops.
  • small-thumbnails Standard hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • small-thumbnails Necessary flights from Kathmandu to Lukla return trips.
  • small-thumbnails Everest National park fee with trekking permit.
  • small-thumbnails Tims card (trekking information management system card).
  • small-thumbnails All meals (B/L/D) during the trekking period.
  • small-thumbnails Accommodation (Teahouse) during the trekking period.
  • small-thumbnails English speaking guide and highly experienced staffs.
  • small-thumbnails Staffs food, clothing, salary and their insurance.
  • small-thumbnails All necessary grounded transportation.
  • small-thumbnails Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • small-thumbnails Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company.
  • small-thumbnails Welcome and fare well dinner in Kathmandu.
  • small-thumbnails Our service charges with VAT and Local / Government Taxes.
  • small-thumbnails Sightseeing or any extra activities except the above program.
  • small-thumbnails Personal nature expenses.
  • small-thumbnails Bar bill and all kind of drinks.
  • small-thumbnails Rescue & Evacuation.
  • small-thumbnails Gratitude (tip) for staff.

Useful Information

Everest Gokyo Ri trek is a challenging trek in the Everest area. Please read about Acute Mountain Sickness before making a final decision to book the Everest Gokyo Ri trek with us.

Gokyo RI (Peak)

Gokyo Peak, also known as Gokyo RI is a 5,357M (17,575FT) high peak in the Khumbu region of the Nepal Himalayas. It is located on the west side of the Ngozumpa glacier, which is the largest glacier in Nepal and reputed to be the largest in the whole Himalayas. Gokyo valley (4,750M, 15,583FT above sea level), at the base of Gokyo RI, is a small hamlet of a few stone houses and one of the highest settlements in the world. From Gokyo RI it is possible to see four 8,000-metre peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The Gokyo Lakes are in the area. The Gokyo trek is a fairly popular trekking route. The route itself ends at Gokyo RI, and trekkers typically turn around at this point and retrace their steps back to the trailhead. There is an alternative mountaineering route that begins near the southern tip of Ngozumpa Glacier and is just south of Taujun Lake.

This alternative route leads east over the Cho La, a pass at 5,420 M (17,782 FT), where it meets with the main Everest Base Camp trek. There is another higher summit just north of where the main Gokyo trek route ends. It stands at an altitude of 5,483M (17,989 FT) above sea level. There is an alpine trail called Gokyo RI leading to the summit. Gokyo Ri is one of the peaks along with the multi-day 3 Passes Trek Nepal.

Gokyo Lakes

Gokyo Lakes is a freshwater lake system situated in the Gokyo valley, consisting mainly of six lakes: Gokyo Cho (Dudh Pokhari), Thonak Cho, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, Ngojumba Cho, and Kyajumba Cho. Thonak Cho is the largest lake out of them. However, if you go further up the valley, there are at least 20 other high-altitude lakes. Because of their significance, Gokyo and associated wetlands of 7,700 ha (30.0 sq. mi.) were designated a Ramsar site in September 2007.

The best thing about these lakes is that there are hotels right next to the most famous of the lakes, Gokyo Cho. Indeed Gokyo village is very charming because of the soaring sound of freshwater, reflections of Crystal Mountains, and the ever-changing lakes. And if it is winter, you also get to walk or skate on the lake.

If you are looking to explore all the lakes, set aside a day. If you start from Gokyo village, it will take you three hours to complete a round trip to Thonak Cho (fourth lake) and six hours for a round trip to Ngozumpa Cho (fifth lake). It is entirely worth the time as you will be rewarded with beautiful views of Cho You, Gyachung Kang, Ngozumpa Glacier, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Makalu.

It is also worth noting that a rookie mistake while planning a trek to Gokyo is planning to stay only a single day. A lot of people just immediately realize their mistake when they get here. You need at least two nights to fully appreciate the beauty of this lake system.

startingicon Starting From:

US$ 1350 pp
We offer Group Discount
  • why-usthumb
    Local Experts
    why-usthumb
    Happiness Guaranteed
  • whyus-thumb
    Easy Payment Options
    whyus-thumb
    Book with confidence
Book This Trip Inquire This Trip

Trip Reviews

We take great pride in taking care of our guests

  • December 26, 2022

A fantastic trip to Gokyo Ri in October 2018 with Alpine Eco Trek

We did a fantastic trip to Gokyo Ri in October 2018 with Alpine Eco Trek. Ram was at the airport to welcome us after our flight touched down in Kathmandu and get us to our hotel in Thamel. We stayed at a hotel called Buddha, a fantastic location, friendly staff, and good breakfast. Ram also organized a beautiful day trip to see some significant sights of Kathmandu which was great to get some perspective on the history and layout of the city. Our guide for the Gokyo Ri trek was wonderful Ramesh, and a very friendly porter, Dhurba. We were looked after so well by these two gentlemen each day, Ramesh and we enjoy the excitement and wonder together that this stunning trek offers. There are many highlights, the lofty mountain views up close are stunning with the highlight of arriving at the Gokyo Lakes and climbing up to Gokyo Ri, it is marvelous. We highly recommend Alpine Eco Trek and the Gokyo Ri trek should not be missed.

  • 243siann T2travellers
    Australia
Rating

Customize This Trip

Tell us your travel plans and preferences and we will design the best trip match for you. Or Give us a call, we are at your service!

experts

Ram Kumar Adhikari

Manager/Owner
experts

Sangita Adhikari

Management Head
experts

Ram Gopal Adhikari

Trip Co-ordinator
tripadvisor-title-thumbnail

Trip Advisor Recognations

Our goal at Alpine Eco Trek is to deliver the most unforgettable and epic journeys to our clients. We create memories that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Memories you can be proud of and can share with everyone around you...

trip-advisor
trip-advisor
trip-advisor
trip-advisor
trip-advisor
trip-advisor

Need a Reference ?

American flag Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

American flag Redondo Beach, CA

  • Associations:

  • registered-image
  • registered-image
  • registered-image
  • registered-image
  • registered-image
  • Sister Concern:

  • associations
  • associations