Gokyo Valley Trek - 12 days

• Enjoy a physically challenging 30-minute flight packed full of stunning views from Kathmandu to the infamous Lukla, Tenzing Hillary Airport.
• On the way to Namche Bazaar, you will sightsee Mt. Everest, Mt.Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
• Optional hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village for a better and clearer view of Mount Everest and the surrounding mountains.
• A sequence of picturesque beaded lakes of blue color situated at the foot of great mountains. 
• Climb to Gokyo Ri 5357 m, which is among the most rewarding trek—360-degree views of the Himalayas, Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu are included.
• Pass through wonderful Sherpa settlements such as Khumjung, Macchermo, and Dhole to get an insight into village life and Sherpa ethics.

Gokyo Valley, in the Everest region is an amazing trek through a beautiful valley abundant in shimmering glacial lakes, panoramic Himalayan views, and tranquil landscapes. It leads to Gokyo village, lying near a turquoise-colored series of lakes at an elevation of about 4,750 meters (15,584 feet). This is not the same old Everest region, which, in any event gives the trekkers greater solitude, as needed to get away from such big flocks.

On trekking, Gokyo Lakes are the big prize but, more significantly on top of Gokyo, climb to Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters or 17,575 above sea level for a great viewing over all the tower over these ranges of peaks which contain Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. The trekking also crosses high passes, walks alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the longest glacier in Nepal, and passes through several Sherpa villages; hence, the trekkers will be exposed to the local culture and the warm hospitality of the residents. Gokyo Valley Trek takes place during the spring and autumn of the year, as these times have clear weather, providing spectacular views of the Himalayan range.

• All airport pick up drop by private vehicle - for both international and domestic flights.
• Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant.
• Twin/double sharing accommodation in BB in Kathmandu.
• Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicle.
• National Park entrance fee and Trekkers' Information Management System, TIMS card.
• A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained, Government-licensed guide. The price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
• 02 guests to 01 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
• We provide an assistant guide, his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance walking with a group to support where necessary as per the group size.
• Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking period.
• Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
• Safe drinking water.
• Flight from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla and return back.
• Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant.
• First add kit box.
• Yeti Hikes's sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
• Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).
• Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate-twice daily during the trek-a very useful way to check AMS symptoms. This helps to make sure that your trek is in the safest hands possible.
• One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after the trek.
• All the applicable government and local taxes as per the itinerary.

• The fees associated with your Nepal visa.
• All international air fares to and from Kathmandu.
• Lunch and supper in Kathmandu.
• Insurance for helicopter evacuation, as well as personal travel and health insurance.
• Extra nights of accommodation, lunch, and dinner in the city may be required in the event of an early arrival or late departure, as well as an early return from a mountain or trekking excursion for any reason, exceeding the specified itinerary timeframe. We are able to assist you in securing additional nights of lodging.
• Your personal expenses, including laundry, baggage charges, phone calls, battery recharges, bar and beverage bills, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold showers and an additional attendant, are as follows.
• The tips for the trekking personnel and drivers.
• Additional expenses that arise as a result of flight delays, strikes, weather conditions, or any other event beyond our control.

How does the 12 day Gokyo Valley Trek start and end?

The adventure starts the instant you will take a thirty-minute flight to the Lukla airport, from where the actual trekking takes off. Together with new companions, fellow trekkers, who happen to be on the same trail, the trek will commence by the pathway interspersed with tall green pines towards the mountain villagers with awe-inspiring suspension bridges portraying a swift silvery Dudh Koshi River below.

So, before you get used to its elevation, you will find yourself in the Gokyo Valley with its breathtaking lakes of Gokyo ideal noted lakes located in of the world's highest peaks. In this segment, you will ascend Gokyo Ri which is the highest altitude point and feast your eyes on a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu all in one frame. All this soul searching was worth it and now you must return, this time however along the ancient trails of the Rhododendron Mountains while making sure to experience every single inhabited settlement on route culminating with the busy Namche Bazaar. You’ll retrace your steps to Lukla omitting overland travels of any kind, and even the most inactive, though still rewarding, sightseeing. With a flight back to Kathmandu, your journey will end.

What is the season/time for the Gokyo Valley Hike?

When it comes to the schedule for reaching Gokyo Valley, your interests, desire for adventure, and your own decision shapes the time. In Yeti Hikes's opinion, it is suggested that the times for this trek should not be any other than Spring or Autumn as these have particular weather and temperature aspects suitable for exploring Nepal.

• Spring (March to May)
  Day temperatures differ in altitudes from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at lower heights whereas 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) are the night temperatures at lower heights. With that you will bear witness to rapid increase in the growth of plants, rhododendrons, and different wild flowers especially in the lower zone. Expect enhanced wildlife activities and sight of Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer and many birds. Talking of which, the festivities of Buddha Jayanti will also allow you to enjoy the lively atmosphere in the homes of the people inhabiting the Everest Region because of their temples. Apart from that, seasonal festivals (Dashain, Tihar) and agricultural activities and foodways will also be witnessed in that region. This season the walking trails are more or less clear with only slightly damp weather at times. The hamlets look neater with full view of Mt Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and other beautiful mountains after the cleaning process.
• Autumn (September to November)
  With the arrival of autumn, though still experiencing rains not as intense as the previous monsoon rains, most trails are hardly muddy since dew dries up after a few hours. Autumn days are warm in southern lowlands with temperatures of 10 °C - 20 °C (50°F - 68°F) whereas the nights are usually cold with temperatures of 0 °C - 10 °C (32 °F – 50°F). There is a sight of wildlife including the winter Himalayan Tahr and birds increasing the enjoyment levels to all people residing at that region. The blue sky offers an opportunity to see the tall peaks clearly with the likes of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam . You'll get to encounter the joyous Dashain and Tihar festival. With these festivals comes the enlivening of the monasteries and the villages which come with the local colours. The routes are also passable and mostly remain so for this period, making it the best time for trekking and sightseeing in the region. 

The Gokyo Valley adventure may be undertaken generally in two seasons which are spring and autumn; this is because the weather is mildly cold with clear skies which provide a good sight of the mountains. The monsoon is known to be wet most of the time with rains every other day. If not every day which cause mud on the steep trails and high chances of landslides and impaired sight. In the winter season, the temperature is nearly freezing, which can result in difficulty and a complicated journey. These are the periods that render the mountain trekking conditions deplorable hence there is no trekking in the mountains during these seasons and therefore spring and autumn are the best seasons to travel for enjoyment and complete the trek successfully.

What are the accommodation available during the Valley Trek? 

Kathmandu Accommodation EBC trekking

Upon arrival and departure, you'll have a total of 1 night in a designated hotel, which is comfortable and well-maintained for 3-star hotels in the core of Thamel, tourists' central point. Hotels include:

• • Lo Mustang Hotel
  • Ramada Encore Hotel
  • Moonlight Hotel
  • Thamel Park Hotel

Your inn includes a shared room or a room for two and a welcome and farewell dinner. All rooms provide a private bathroom, a TV, and enough storage for your luggage. If you wish for solo accommodation or an inclusive stay, you can upgrade to a 4- or 5-star hotel at an additional cost.

EBC accommodation during the trek

Many teahouses and lodges are available to trekkers throughout the trekking route. They provide the bare necessities, such as a dormitory or private accommodation couched with shared bath facilities. Even though facilities differ, bedding, hot showers, and heat for the living room and dinner area are common, and trekkers can move around and socialize after a tiring day of adventure. The dining areas offer a number of local and worldwide meals; trekkers can taste Sherpa Cuisine in the area.

Since tea houses are located in various villages, including Namche Bazaar, Dhole, and Machermo, they help travellers rest and acclimate. In conclusion, teahouses allow one to get acquainted with the profiles and coziness of the districts one passes through and get a comfortable place to rest during the entire route.

Toilet/ Bathroom facilities during the Gokyo Valley trekking

Accessible toilet facilities vary depending on altitude just as much as the type of accommodation being planned. However in the lower villages and towns like Lukla and Namche Bazaar where trekkers find lodging in livestock lodges or trekkers' teahouses there are Western-style toilets. On occasions, the teahouses located at higher altitudes are comparatively crude, and primarily, you will be confronted with locally styled squat toilets, which is also a feature of Nepalese hospitality. This makes them less favored, not often swept or may not be swept at all sometimes. One should also pack their personal effects, for instance, rolls of tissue paper and alcoholic hand sanitizers, since you find they are not disinfected or are missing. However, it may be necessary that trekkers spend some money on lavatories available in a few areas of the region. Water may also be unavailable for use in flushing or washing hands during the practice of these measures. People are advised to wash hands at this time with available water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Other facilities that encompass showers and washing areas differ through the trekking route. In low altitude areas such as Namche Bazaar, many tea houses provide hot showers, by either electrical facilities or by a gas boiler for few extra charges. These facilities may also consist of western type wash basins and running water. On ascending the higher parts of the trail you will find that hot water is hard to come by and in some teahouses you will only get cold water or in some cases there is no running water at all. You should be prepared for very primitive washing arrangements in the higher regions, many may only be able to resort to water and soap on a cloth and perhaps wet wipes instead of a shower. In as much as the everyday wash can be substandard. In conclusion, all of you must expect to have variation in the comfort level for the toilet/bath as well as everywhere until the valley trek, as well as unexpected conditions of cleanliness and water supply in the isolated regions.

Required Documents and Permits for ValleyTrekking

Considering the Gokyo Valley Trek, which takes 12 days, several documents and permits are required due to its location. Here's a breakdown of the licenses you'll need:

Passport and Visa

• You'll need a valid passport (valid for at least six months) and a Nepal tourist visa. The visa can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• For a 12-day trek, the 30-day visa is ideal, as it costs around US$ 50.

Travel Insurance

• It is not mandatory, but you must have a travel insurance policy covering trekking at a higher altitude. Always keep a photocopy of your insurance policy and emergency numbers.

Medical Certificate

• It is required as some may request a medical certificate to confirm the absence of chronic diseases and the ability to undertake strenuous activities.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
• Cost: US$22 per person.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit

• You'll need this permit to enter the Khumbu Region, including the EBC trek.
• Cost: US$22 per person.

Trekking Information Management System (TIMS)

• A TIMS card is typically required for trekking in Nepal, but for this hike, the "Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit" takes precedence, so you don't need a TIMS card if you have both the permits as mentioned above.

Documents Required to Apply Permit Applications:

• A clear passport-size scanned copy of the passport has a validity of at least six months.
• Passport-sized photos as per requirements.
• Trekking Itinerary Details.
• Cash (Nepalese Rupees) for permit fees.
• Additional documents are required as specified by the permit office or trekking agency.

You should obtain the permits through a registered trekking agency and check with them to ensure all the paperwork is in order before starting your trek.

You can visit the Permits and Document page for more information regarding permits and documents.

How secure is it to go for an Gokyo Valley Trek?

The valley adventure is enjoyable and, alternatively, a somewhat unpredictable landscape, with the suppression of danger in the whole trekking zone. First of all, the team of Yeti Hikes advise you to start your trek early in the pre-monsoon season which is March to Mid May and other best season is post-monsoon which is September to mid-November. Hence while in these seasons fluctuation is high, the status of the trails are relatively more stable as the information above highlighted shows. That is why, preparing for bad weather is one of the easiest, especially having the weather calendar where we can always find the changes. The same might occur with the rain or snow or any other weather type, and that is why one has to be ready and have on them the correct and necessary clothing and gear, icing therefore the need of having on one's self warm and waterproof clothing.

Second is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), to prevent it, one requires to learn that s/he needs to closely monitor s/he body and identify symptoms such as headaches and dizziness. Some of the essential things when preparing for the trek include Physical Fitness as well as Mental Health. You can start by advancing your physical stability with exercises through other sportive activities. Ideally, best would be no stress at all and to focus primarily on leisure and good health. Meditation and deep-breathing and stretching is critical to mental toughness because to strive and succeed you have to be self-assured, calm, and energized. 

Currently the trekking routes are lonely and must be much more transportable. It is required that you ought to have a first aid kit when on an adventure. Sore wrists are common and first-aiding them is normal, but there are more inevitable injuries and fatal conditions. Thus, travel insurance is needed due to out of reach geographical locations and lack of adequate medical facilities.

And finally, we at Yeti Hikes introduce you to experienced guides and porters as extra security and back up during your trip. On the field they may help in leading you to the particular area or to control any mishap that may occur in the trail. You should bring in a satellite phone or a GPS device to be able to call for help in case you are in danger. These measures implemented, the Gokyo journey shall be as fun-filled as it should be and as safe as possible can be.

What to do to avoid AMS during the Gokyo Valley Trek?

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the primary concerns for every traveler. Prevention is possible, but some solutions decrease it significantly enough to be worth considering.

The common symptoms of AMS are as follows:

• Headache.
• Nausea and Vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Loss of Appetite.
• Difficulty in Sleep.
• Increase in Heart Rate.
• Swelled Body Parts.

Severe AMS can lead to life-threatening conditions and complications like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Avoiding it is crucial, but some effective preventions (strategies) can minimize it.

• Acclimatization

In this, it will be most advisable to climb gradually and progressively, giving the body time to acclimatize to the rising altitude and also to include rest days in one's climbing schedule

• Stay Hydrated

Hydration can effectively reverse the AMS slowly over time. Ideally, one should drink 3-4 liters of water daily, and alcohol and caffeine should be avoided to the maximum.

• Nutrition

Please pay attention to eating carbohydrate-rich foods like rice, fruits, and breads, among others, in small portions since they ease digestion and provide energy.

• Physical stability and medications

Intensive care patients are not receiving commonly prescribed medications, likely due to their physical stability and consequent lack of agitation. Agreeing that your body needs to be ready for vigorous activities in order to improve strength and endurance; taking essential medicines (first aid kit) for headaches or nausea is compulsory.

• Monitor your body

To minimize the risk, you need to learn to be sensitive to signals from your physical body, such as headaches and dizziness.

Detailed Information about flying into Lukla

Lukla Airport, Tenzing Hillary Airport, is also referred to as the gateway to 'Mount Everest', established at an unbelievably challenging height- the Himalayas. Its runway is short and the end of the strip is located near a cliff; therefore, each landing takes the flavor of a thrilling experience. You'll feel this rush of excitement as you'll be greeted with the icy mountains and the thought of the next day.

• Lukla flight from Ramecchap/ Manthali Airport

Flying from Ramechhap/Manthali provides an alternative starting point for your Everest Base Camp adventure. After a scenic 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu, you'll board a short 20-minute flight to Lukla. During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights are often redirected to Ramechhap due to the heavy air traffic at Kathmandu's airport, making this route more efficient and less crowded.

• Direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

During the off-season, you can directly fly from Kathmandu airport to Lukla airport, which will take you almost 35 minutes to reach.

It is essential to understand that flights may vary depending on the airline and unfavourable factors like weather, runway issues, etc. To cover this, Yeti Hikes recommends adding an extra day or two to your valley hike plan.

What are the Baggage allowances in Lukla's flight

The aircraft used for the flight to Lukla is comparatively smaller, and according to the airline's guidelines, you should pack light for safety concerns.

• Total Baggage Limit: 15 kg (33 lbs) per person
• Checked Luggage: 10 kg (22 lbs)
• Carry-On: 5 kg (11 lbs)

Space availability may be increased with additional cost. However, it is recommended to halt with a 15 kg (33 lbs) limit.

Travel Insurance for Gokyo Valley Adventure 

The trail routes are isolated and aren't easily accessible for transport. Joint injuries are standard, but there are more unavoidable injuries as well as life-threatening issues. So, travel insurance is required because of the remote areas and minimum medical facilities. In case of life-threatening injuries, you have to return back to Kathmandu, which is quite time-consuming for roadways. Hence, airways (helicopter, airplane) insurance is necessary for urgent evacuation.

Why is it important?

• High-altitude Coverage

The Gokyo Ri reaches an altitude of over 5,357 meters (17,575 FT), so you need insurance that covers adventure above 5,000 meters.

• Medical Expenses & Evacuation

Your insurance should cover emergency medical treatment and evacuation (including helicopter rescue) in case of altitude sickness, injuries, or other medical emergencies. The remote nature of the hike makes helicopter evacuation the fastest and safest option.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption

If unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, accidents, or natural disasters, force you to cancel or cut short your journey, ensure your insurance covers trip cancellations and interruptions.

• Lost or Delayed Baggage

The adventure involves traveling with essential gear. Insurance should cover lost or delayed baggage, especially if crucial items like trekking gear or documents are lost.

• Personal Liability

This coverage will protect you in case of accidental damage to property or injury to others during your trek.

Repatriation

In the unlikely event of death or severe medical conditions, your insurance should cover the costs of repatriation back to your home country.

Recommended Providers

Many insurance providers offer travel insurance tailored to high-altitude trekking in Nepal, such as:

• World Nomads
• InsureMyTrip
• Global Rescue
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Tipping suggestions for Gokyo Valley Trek

Tipping is not required as a norm, but grateful for it; be kind in other ways. This is a huge culture in the trekking industry and which is also adopted as a; common practice too, therefore, you are recommended to budget between 10% to 15% of the total trek cost on the guides and porters. Trekking guides suggest pooling tips with others in your group and to always have smaller bills of Nepali Rupees.

Phones and Gadgets charging

Gokyo Valley trek and phone charging can be best facilitated if some plans are in place. Continuing with the hikes, services like charging gadgets can be done at most of the teahouses they will be charged for. Therefore, a powerful compact portable battery charger (power bank) is suggested to take along. Bring only the specific adapters, either two-pin or three-pin depending on outlets available and the superior quality cable with you. To conserve battery pull down the brightness and close all unneeded applications when not in use. also spare batteries for the torch and camera for taking pictures, and also, GPS Device, Portable Speaker, Fitness Tracker, Satellite Phone etc. Some of them have to be carried from home, while others can be purchased in Kathmandu.

Food and Beverage options during the Valley Trek

You'll find various food options at teahouses and lodges along the trek. 

For Breakfast:

• Porridge or Oatmeal
• Pancakes
• Egg Dishes
• Bread and Jam

For Lunch:

• Noodles
• Sandwiches
• Rice Dishes
• Mo: Mo
• Tibetan bread
• Sel Roti
• Fresh fruits
• Thukpa

For Dinner:

• Dal Bhatt
• Rice and curry
• Potato Items
• Tingmo

For Hot Beverages:

• Tea
• Coffee
• Hot Chocolate

For Cold Beverages:

• Soft Drinks
• Bottled Water
• Fresh Fruit Juice

As the options may be limited, it is recommended that you carry bottled water for drinking, energy bars, nuts, chocolates, and biscuits. Alcohol drinks are also available but not favored as it may increase the risk of AMS and dehydration.

Internet and Wifi-availability along the Gokyo Valley Journey

During the valley trek, staying connected requires choosing the right mobile service provider and internet packages.

These are some of the following options available:

• Local SIM Cards

You can easily purchase local SIM cards around airport areas and shops, but you'll need to present a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.

• Popular and Roaming Packages

Ncell, NTC, and Airlink SIM provide packages. If you prefer to keep your home SIM, get help from your guide for international roaming packages. However, roaming charges can be expensive.

• Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals

You can rent or buy a portable Wi-Fi device in Kathmandu. This device provides internet access for multiple devices and can be a convenient option for groups.

Do you need extra expenses for Gokyo Valley?

With the trekking cost of the entire trip plus the tips it is advisable that one carries some cash for buying any necessary snacks and juice. Depending on your decision and needs, with flexible budgets, purchasing souvenirs, celebrating foods, etc., is essential after trekking. All our prices with Yeti Hikes are transparent and there is no extra charge, so we suggest that you take small notes with you.

Can a beginner trek Gokyo Valley?

Newbie trekkers can trek any area as long as they have enough physical strength and mental endurance. But to be sure I will say that the Gokyo Valley Trek is moderately stre`nuous trek which involves walking upto 5 to 8 hours per day on steep rocky trails. However, this difficulty can be much more greatly experienced when there is lack of experience and relevant training. But there is always time to participate in this adventure! That way beginners will stay busy working on their body and mind, making sure they are ready for this once in a lifetime opportunity whenever they are.

Customization of trekking or Alternative trekking beside Gokyo Valley trek

At Yeti Hikes, we understand that each traveler seeks a unique adventure, and we are dedicated to offering customizable trekking experiences that cater to individual preferences and goals. For those considering an alternative to the popular Gokyo Valley Trek, we provide a range of tailored options that highlight the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Himalayas. Whether it’s the view of World hight Peak from Everest base camp, the tranquil trails of the Langtang Valley, the remote beauty of the Manaslu Circuit, or the culturally immersive Tsum Valley Yeti Hikes designs treks that balance natural beauty with local insights. Our team works closely with each guest to select the best route, duration, and difficulty level, ensuring a trek that aligns perfectly with their fitness, interests, and time frame. With Yeti Hikes, every trek can be as distinctive as the adventurer taking it.