Gokyo Valley Trek

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, Our representatives will warmly greet you and transfer you to your designated hotel in Kathmandu. If you arrive in the morning, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to relax and unwind.
In the evening, we will hold a meeting for a trek briefing and discussion regarding Gokyo Valley Trek, where you’ll be introduced to your trek guide and help you to manage necessary trekking stuffs.

Your Gokyo Valley Trek begins with a thrilling 30 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport (2,840 meters), one of the globe’s most exciting airstrips. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, rolling hills, and vast river valleys below a memorable introduction to your Himalayan journey.

Upon arrival in Lukla, your trekking journey officially begins. Today‘s trek is relatively flat and simple, covering about 8 kilometers (5 miles) in approximately 3 hours to enable you to acclimatize yourself to the landscape and elevation.

The trail descends gently from Lukla through charming Sherpa settlements and terraced fields. You’ll follow the legendary Everest Base Camp trail, which runs along the Dudh Koshi River—Nepal’s “Milky River,” named for its frothy rapids and glacial origin. The terrain is well-defined with stone-paved sections, hanging bridges, and occasional forested paths.

Stay on the Wall Side!
This route is also used by yaks, donkeys, and porters carrying loads to the mountains further up. For your own safety, always be on the wall (hill) side of the trail when encountering animals. Avoid coming too close to the edge, especially in narrow areas or on suspension bridges, so as not to trigger accidents.

As you make your way to Phakding (2,610m), take in the peaceful countryside with mani stones, prayer flags flying in the wind, and tiny tea houses. The blend of Sherpa culture and nature on this section is pure magic.

You‘ll get to Phakding in the afternoon—a great place to unwind and acclimatize. Your first night in the mountains  will be accompanied by the gentle river sound and anticipation of what lies ahead.

Today‘s trek in the Gokyo Valley Trek in the 3,440m elevation of Namche Bazaar from Phakding is approximately 11 kilometers long and is one of the most memorable segments of the trek. The trek begins with a leisurely walk along the Dudh Koshi River where you will take some suspension bridges and go through picturesque Sherpa villages such as Monjo and Jorsalle. When you officially enter Sagarmatha National Park, the scenery becomes more spectacular. 

One of the highlights of the day is the walk across the Hillary Suspension Bridge, a high and thrilling bridge named after Sir Edmund Hillary. But directly underneath this bridge lies one of the toughest sections of the trek—the climb through the blue pine forest up to Top Danda. 

Climbing is laborious, especially in the final hour, with steep paths and switchbacks that test your stamina. You must be on the wall side of the trail when passing by yak or donkey caravans, to remain safe on the sometimes exposed mountain trails. 

Your reward for tenacity is arrival in Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital nestled in a natural amphitheater with wonderful views of Thamserku and glimpses of Everest. This acclimatization break is a critical mix of mountain vista with cultural richness, and is an enormous milestone in your Gokyo Valley trek.

Today is a well deserved acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, the vibrant hub of the Khumbu valley. At 3,440 meters, this Sherpa town in amphitheater form is not just a rest stop—it‘s a cultural hub and a gateway to the Himalayas.

Take your morning wandering around the local vibrant market, browsing Tibetan handicrafts, and drinking freshly brewed coffee at friendly cafes. Namche also has government offices, internet cafes, shops, bakeries, and even a post office, blending modern amenities with old-world charm.

As a way of keeping active while acclimatizing, a hike up to the Namche Viewpoint or on to the renowned Everest View Hotel (3,880m) offers breathtaking views of Himalayan giants like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri. From here, the terrain stretches over a white expanse of peaks and valleys a sight nearly unreal. Proceed farther on to the rural village of Khumjung, renowned for its Yeti scalp monastery and Hillary School, established by Sir Edmund Hillary.

You may also visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center and Sherpa Culture Museum, whose artifacts bring the Everest region‘s past, geography, and spirituality to life.

Basking in the scenery or soaking up Sherpa culture, Namche Bazaar is the final acclimatization, culture, and scenery–saturation stop on your Gokyo Valley Trek. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.

Leaving behind the busy center of Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the trail to Dole (4,200m) is an introduction to a less busy, more alpine world. The Gokyo Valley Trek for the distance is approximately 11 kilometers and involves a rise in altitude of some 760 meters, so it is moderately strenuous but absolutely gorgeous day. The hike begins on a gentle ascent on a well-trodden stone trail that winds through ancient chortens and mani stones, along the entire length of a stupendous Himalayan view.

As you climb, you‘ll walk through the tiny village of Kyangjuma, from where the trail diverges from the standard Everest Base Camp trek and heads northwest for the remote Gokyo Valley. Here, the trekkers have panoramic views of several of Nepal‘s tallest mountains, including Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri. The trail then ascends through thick rhododendron, blue pine, and juniper forests, occasionally catching glimpses of Himalayan monals, musk deer, or the occasional errant yak caravan.

A steep but worthwhile gradient takes you to the high ridge village of Mong La (3,973m), an excellent rest stop with stunning views over the Dudh Koshi River some thousands of feet below. A short descent to Phortse Thenga (3,680m)—a riverside ledge that is the best place for lunch—you begin the last ascent through a cooler, thinner alpine forest. The terrain is more rough, and the trail narrows at parts, calling for cautious steps. This section can be tiring because of the increasing altitude, but breathtaking natural scenery is always on hand for inspiration.

As you drop down towards Dole, the woods give way to grassy meadows and rock outcroppings. Perched on the mountainside is Dole, a peaceful Sherpa village that fewer tourists pass through than some more touristy routes, and thus a great place to rest and acclimatize. The air is fresher, the sky is a deeper blue, and the quiet is more profound—an environment that will get you ready for the surreal loveliness to come in the Gokyo Valley.

The trek between Dole (4,200m) and Machhermo (4,470m) is a short but rewarding segment of the Gokyo Valley Trek, some 6 kilometers with an elevation gain of roughly 270 meters. The lesser distance aside, the higher altitude requires one to keep to a moderate pace and to consume enough water. The walk begins an easy climb from Dole, already offering panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks, including Cho Oyu (8,188m)—the sixth-highest peak in the world and the deep valley of the Dudh Koshi River below.

As you ascend steadily along the western valley ridge, the landscape shifts from timbered slopes to open alpine meadow and widely spaced juniper shrub. The terrain here consists of compressed dirt tracks and rocky outcrops, creating a moderate hike that is both peaceful and picturesque. You’ll walk through small seasonal herder settlements like Lhabarma (4,330m) and Luza (4,390m), where yaks graze in the shade of distant glaciers.

Because this section is over 4,000 meters, it’s a key day of acclimatization. The trail is exposed and lacks much shade, but it rewards you with Himalayan views and serene atmosphere far removed from the busier trekking routes of the Khumbu. Scan the skies for Himalayan birds like snow pigeons and lammergeiers soaring overhead.

Upon reaching Machhermo, you’ll find a cluster of teahouses nestled in a wide, scenic valley beneath towering ridgelines. This charming highland village is not only a resting point but also rich in legend—locals believe that the valley is the site of one of the first Yeti sightings in the region. Afternoons can be spent touring the area, relaxing with a hot drink, or dropping by the Himalayan Rescue Association post for a quick altitude awareness talk, which can be valuable preparation for high-altitude safety as you go further up.

Spending a night in Machhermo allows your body time to acclimatize to increasing elevation, preparing you for the higher climbs ahead in stunning Gokyo Valley Trek.

The trek from Machhermo (4,470m) to Gokyo Village (4,790m) is the most scenic and unforgettable section of the Gokyo Valley Trek at a distance of approximately 7 kilometers with an elevation gain of around 320 meters. The trek starts from Machhermo by ascending gradually over a ridge with wide views of Kangtega, Thamserku, and the imposing walls of Cho Oyu in front. The landscape then goes into high alpine terrain, where you will see rocky outcrops, glacial moraines, and very little vegetation—reminding you that you’re getting into the real heart of the Himalayas.

The route goes on following the Dudh Koshi River, which here is more like a glacial stream pouring down over boulders and frozen channels. Another hour’s walking brings you to Phangka (4,470m), a small halt in the valley where the Ngozumpa Glacier begins to appear. Be careful here, as the path passes through bits which are subject to rockfall; always remain on the uphill side when passing mules or yaks.

From Phangka, the route ascends a steep hill over the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest in Nepal. While physically demanding for those who are not adapted to the altitude or rugged trails, the ascent is worthwhile with a wand-like perspective: the first of the Gokyo Lakes—Longponga Tsho (4,690m)—appears like a sapphire gemstone set in the barren wasteland. A bit farther, you’ll pass Taboche Tsho, the second lake, and finally arrive at Dudh Pokhari, the third and most famous lake, beside which Gokyo Village is situated.

Situated at nearly 4,800 meters, Gokyo (4,790m) is a serene cluster of stone villages set against the beautiful backdrop of blue glacial lakes and colossal mountains. On a clear day, the lake’s surface reflection of Cho Oyu is pure enchantment. This altitude village is the acclimatization base and viewpoint climb for Gokyo Ri (5,357m), the trek’s renowned viewpoint.

Arriving at Gokyo is one of the biggest thrills of the Gokyo Valley Trek—it’s a place where untouched natural splendor and sacred landscape converge. Take a sunset stroll along the lakefront, sipping in the spiritual stillness, and savoring the breathtaking adventures yet to come above.

As your unforgettable hike on the Gokyo Valley Trek continues, today you’ll descend from the high alpine settlement of Machhermo to the bustling hub of the Khumbu region—Namche Bazaar. This super but rewarding day hike offers a dramatic alteration in scenery, shifting from rugged mountain terrain to lush rhododendron and pine woodland.

The trail begins with a gentle descent through the small settlement of Phortse Tenga, passing through juniper shrubs and open yak pastures. You’ll cross charming wooden bridges over glacial streams and walk along stone staircases built into the hillside, offering intermittent views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and distant glacial valleys.

One of the highlights of the day is the slow climb up from Phortse Tenga to Mong Danda, a hamlet set high on a ridgeway and offering wonderful panoramic views and the perfect spot for a break. The path then slopes gently down through pine forest abounding in the singing of Himalayan birds, and more subsequently joins the main Everest Base Camp route at Sanasa.

As you head on to Namche Bazaar, you can see the landscape filling up with other trekkers, porters, and livestock, an indication that you are heading back to civilization. The last leg follows the Dudh Koshi River gorge with intermittent views of Everest appearing through the ridges of mountains.

Approaching Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa commercial town is a familiar and comforting sight. After several days of slightly more subdued alpine village existence, Namche’s variety of cafes, bakeries, and shops is a welcome sight. It’s the perfect place to recover and weigh up your high-altitude experience before the last descent to Lukla.

This segment of the Gokyo Valley Trek provides a blend of nature’s beauty, richness of culture, and hospitality of the Khumbu people, thereby providing a very deep sense of satisfaction and success to trekkers.

Your final trekking day begins in Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and makes its way downhill to Lukla (2,840m), covering around 18 kilometers in distance. While it’s mostly downhill, the path can be merciless on the knees, and the loose rocky, uneven trails demand attention and care especially in the early section of the descent from Namche to the suspension bridges below.

You will be backtracking your way in thick forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron, passing through picturesque Sherpa villages such as Monjo, Benkar, Phakding, and Ghat. Along the way, enjoy your last views of the roaring Dudh Koshi River, and take care to cross the fabled Hillary Suspension Bridge once more with the breathtaking views over the deep gorge below.

Steeply descending from Top Danda to the river, the trail is still tough especially the section below Hillary Bridge, which is rocky and narrow and winds through beautiful blue pine forest. Stay patient here and be alert, especially when you encounter pack animals such as donkeys or yaks. Always stick to one side of the trail on the wall for safety.

Finally, after fighting the last suspension bridges and crossing the last forest sections, you arrive in Lukla, the conclusion of the trek. This final arrival is bittersweet and victorious. You can relax and reflect on your incredible journey on the Gokyo Valley Trek, maybe over a warm drink or a rich Sherpa meal with your team.

Tonight, relax in the comfort of your Lukla teahouse and prepare for the scenic flight back to Kathmandu the next morning your heart full of memories, your spirit uplifted by the sacred lakes, glaciers, and peaks you’ve explored.

After breakfast in Lukla, you’ll head to the small but bustling Tenzing-Hillary Airport for your scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The flight takes approximately 35 to 40 minutes, soaring above lush hills, winding rivers, and the vast Himalayan range—offering one last aerial glimpse of the mighty peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, weather permitting.

The flight is an experience in itself, as Lukla Airport is at a height of 2,840 meters and has a dramatic mountain backdrop. It is advisable to take early morning flights for favorable weather and clearer skies, and your day begins early.

At Kathmandu (1,400m), there will be one of our Naike Nepal Treks representatives to receive you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After exhausting high altitude trekking for days, lively hill villages, sacred Gokyo Lakes, and dramatic mountain vistas from Gokyo Ri, the return to the comfort of Kathmandu offers a time to relax and well-earned rest.

Relax for the rest of the day, enjoying a hot shower or wandering through Thamel’s colorful streets with its restaurants, souvenir shops, and local eateries. Your amazing Gokyo Valley Trek will have ended, but memories and heart stirring appeal of the Himalayas will linger forever.

After completing your unforgettable Gokyo Valley Trek, a representative from Naike Nepal Treks will transfer you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your final departure. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to the Himalayas again soon!