Gokyo Lake Trek

The Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is a beautiful, slightly easier and less crowded alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp Trek. It offers a dramatic view of the northwest face of Everest and its setting amongst the other giants of this area is more impressive than the view from Kala Patthar. There are also impressive views over the longest, Ngozumpa glacier of Nepal.The trek begins with a 35min flight to Lukla then follows the Everest Base Camp trail for the first two days. A rest and acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar with a visit to the friendly Sherpa village of Khumjung provides a leisurely introduction to the life and customs of these friendly people.

The Gokyo trekking trail, then branches off to the Gokyo Lakes along the Dudh Kosi to the snout of the Ngozumpa glacier which it follows towards its origin below the tremendous ice ridge that links the peaks of Cho Oyo (8201m) and Ghyachung Kang (7922m). Your destination is the summer Sherpa village of Gokyo (4760m) situated on the slopes of the glacier’s moraine on the shore of the last of several blue-green lakes that nestle between the mountains and moraine. Yak herding and crop production in the short growing season are the chief occupations.

A rewarding climb to the top of Gokyo Ri (peak, 5357m) offers soaring views of Cho Oyo, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu,  as well as a spectacular view of the glacier forging its way down the valley. A walk from the village higher up the Gokyo valley or over the moraine to view the glacier at first hand could also be considered. This trek is ideal for people with limited time. It calls for good boots, warm waterproof clothing, a good sleeping bag, a day pack camera sunscreen and hat. Our

Gokyo trek package includes the flight, local porters, meals, accommodation and  drinking water. The Gokyo valley trek main trekking seasons are spring (March - May) and autumn (September- November) but we offer this trek in all four seasons.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Day 03: fly Kathmandu – Lukla and trek to Phakding (2562m/8700ft) 45 minutes airstrip and 3/4 hrs trek.

Day 04: Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3440m/11,280ft): 5/6 hrs trek.

Day 05: Acclimatization Day - Namche Bazaar: (3,440m/11,284ft)

Day 06: Namche Bazzar - Dole-(4,110m/ 13,152ft): 5-6 hrs walk

Day 07: Dole - Machherma-(4,470 m/14,663ft): 4-5 hrs walk

Day 08: Machharma - Gokyo (4800m/15,744ft): 3-4 hrs walk

Day 09: Explore Gokyo Valley

Day 10: Gokyo – Phortse (3810m/12500ft) 5/6 hrs walk

Day 11: Phortse – Monjo (2835m/8500ft) 4/5 hrs trek.

Day 12: Monjo – Lukla (2880m/9175ft) 4/5 hrs trek

Day 13: Lukla – Kathmandu by Air (1300m/4264ft) 35 minutes airstrip.

Day 14:Final departure

Transfer to International Airport and fly to onward destination. 

Remark - Please note that cloud and turbulent weather is a regular phenomenon along the Himalayan range. It is thus possible that domestic flights from Kathmandu to/from Lukla may have to be delayed for a few hours or even cancelled for a day or more. Fortunately this does not happen frequently during the high seasons of March – May or September to November: but you need to plan for this possibility.

As a safeguard we recommend that you add on a couple of extra days after your trek before you fly from Kathmandu to your onward destination.

Cost Inclusive:

• All airport/Hotel transfers
• 2 star accommodation in Kathmandu for 3 nights with breakfast
• City tour by private transport
• Welcome and farewell dinner
• Full meals on your choice (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
• Hot drinks (Tea & Coffee)
• Safe Drinking water
• All mountain accommodation (5 Nights twin sharing Room with independent bathroom and hot shower; remaining nights soft, comfortable twin sharing private room but share bathroom)
• Domestic flight (Kathmandu /Lukla / Kathmandu)
• Airport taxes
• An experienced English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide, assistant trek leader and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
• Guide & porter salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
• Trekking permits and necessay paper work (National Park Permit & TIMS )
•  A comprehensive medical kit
• All government and local taxes
• Trekking equipment such as four season down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking boots, rain coat, walking stick and many more as per necessity
• All necessary paper work and permits (National Park Permit & TIMS)

Cost Exclusive

• City monument fees
• Bottle drinks
• Boiled water
• Hot shower except in private bath accommodation
• Camera battery re-charge 
• Personal expenses
• Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
• Travel insurance & evacuation
• Tip (not mandatory but expected) 

Gokyo Lake trek detail itinerary 

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Meet MMT (Mountain Mart Treks) airport representative at International Airport and transfer to your Hotel. Free afternoon. Involve well come dinner hosted by MMT management, introduce guide, trip briefing and check trip necessities.

Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)

After breakfast, day will start our city trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley such as, pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, the world biggest Stupa Bouddhanath, visit Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple. After exploring the surrounding areas visit historical Patan Durbar Square & Kathmandu Durbar Square (Freak Street) with temple, unique ancient art, architectures, museum and Kumari (living goddess). Evening pre-trip counseling and ensure once again trekking gears, medical kid and trek legalization needs.

              “OR”

Leisure and rest day for your own interest.

Day 03: fly Kathmandu – Lukla and trek to Phakding (2,562m/8,700ft) 35 minutes airstrip and 3-4 hrs

Transfer to domestic airport and fly to Lukla (2,780m /9,175ft) gateway to Everest Base Camp 35 minutes Trans Himalaya flight. Culminate dramatic landing on a hillside Lukla, introduce porters and downhill to beautiful Sherpa settlement Choplung. The trail continues along the side of the Dudh Koshi valley before ascending to Ghat ((2530m /8350ft) Trail climbs gently again about an hour to our final destination Phakding. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 04: Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,280ft): 5-6 hrs

Trek leads through a beautiful pine forest, along Dudh Koshi River crossing many suspension bridges via Sherpa villages Benkar, Chimoa, Monjo and Jorsole a national park permit check point with the tranquility view of glistering Mt. Thamserku (6618 m) Trail continues through the Dudh Koshi riverbed to the confluence of Bhote Koshi and Dudh Koshi rivers. Trail climbs steadily crossing high Tenzing- Hilary suspension bridge. On the way inspiring glimpse of Mt. Everest right up next Nuptse- Lhotse ridge. About 3 hours ascend through the wonderful pine forest finally reach a prosperous trading and administrative village Namche Bazar. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 05: Acclimatization Day - Namche Bazaar: (3,440m/11,284ft)

It’s a scheduled acclimatization day of the trek. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and health experts recommend to hold at least one extra night. Stay active and roaming instead of being lazy. Namche Bazar has ATMs, cyber cafés, finger licking delicious restaurants, bakery, colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday morning. There is day trip starts visiting Sagarmatha (Everest) National park visitor centre on the hillock where we can observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plants and animal life of the Everest region. Then take entertaining acclimatization side trip to large traditional Sherpa village Khumjung with the view of Thamserku, Khaantaiga, Ama Dablam, Mt, Everest and many more. Evening back to Namche Bazar for overnight.  

We could trek alternatively north of Namche Bazar to Thame, enroute to Ngangpa La (5 hours, go and back) with the panoramic view of Himalayas which are not seen in EBC route.

Day 06: Namche Bazzar - Dole-(4,110m/13,152ft): 5-6 hrs

Trail climbs to the end of village to hillock and leads moderately flat through the hillside with the view of Thamserku, Khangtega, Amadablam and Mt Everest to Kyangjuma. The trail ascends observing Grandview of Mt. Khumbila to Mong La a tiny Sherpa village and an ancient chorten in the middle of settlement. Trail descends and ascends to Dole with the outstanding marvelous view of snowed-caped .Himalayas, wild life and different Mountains vegetation. Spotted dears, Mountain goat (Himalayan Thar) colorful Pheasant (Danphe) and rhododendrons tranquilized the day walk thoroughly. Overnight in Dole at Hotel.

Day 07: Dole - Machherma-(4,470m/14,663 ft): 4-5 hrs

Today, our trail climb to scenic ridges above the Dudh Koshi river through thorny bushes offering breathtaking view of Cho-Oyu, Thamserku & Khangtaiga. The trail continues with the superb view of huge valley passing charming summer settlement of Luza (4360m /14380ft) and few small hamlets to reach Machherma.   A beautiful stream flowing down from Kyajo Ri and Phari Lapche mountain runs through the middle of the village before draining into the Dudh Koshi River. It’s final major settlement on the way to Gokyo. HRA aid post is located here to share AMS precaution and cure. Overnight at Hotel in Machharma.

Day 08: Machharma - Gokyo (4,800m/15,744 ft): 3-4 hrs

After breakfast, our trail ascends through to the ridge offering superb view of the valley, Mt. Khangtaiga, Thamserku and north face of Cho- Oyu (8201 m) Trail descend down to the river bank before beginning the climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa glacier. Trail continues ascend through the moraine and pass a metal bridge through the first Lake, known as Longpongo glacier at 4690m /15383ft where Lama Footprint could be seen on the stone. Enjoy the lake view and about an hour further struggle reach Gokyo located on the bank of third lake. Overnight at Hotel in Gokyo.

Day 09: Explore Gokyo Valley

The views in the Gokyo region are tremendous. For the best view, climb Gokyo Ri (5350 m) the small peak above the lake. The peak of 5350m is sometime called Kala Pathar (not to be confused with the Kala Pathar above Gorakshep, though the view is similar) It is a two- hours climb to the top of the peak, providing a panoramic view of Cho Oyu, Gyanchung King, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, Tawache and many more. Those with more time and energy can make a trip up the valley to another lake, marked with the name Ngazumpa on the maps, or even beyond to a fifth lake. There are several small peaks in this in this region that offer vantage points for the surrounding peaks and views of the Nangpa La, the old trade route into Tibet.   Overnight at Hotel in Gokyo.

Day 10: Gokyo – Phortse (3,810m/12,500 ft) 5-6 hrs.

We can descend to Phortse in a single day. Rather than retrace the upward route, follow the eastern side of the valley to gain different views of Khumbila. You will also enjoy somewhat warmer weather, because the sun stays on these slopes longer in the late afternoon.   Overnight at Hotel in Phortse.

Day 11: Phortse – Monjo (2,835m/8500ft) 4-5 hrs.

A slippery trail descends from Phortse to the bridge at Phortse Thanga and rejoins the original route from Khumjung. It is easy to reach Namche Bazar and descend down to Dudh Koshi river for our final day destination Monjo. Over night at Hotel in Monjo.

Day 12: Monjo – Lukla (2,880m/9175ft) 4-5 hrs.

Today, our trail follows down steam of Dudh Koshi river retracing to Phakding. Trail leads to Lukla scaling different Sherpa villages crossing a suspension bridge above Thado Kosh. Last section of the day, about 45 minutes ascend to accomplish entire trek. Reconfirm flight Ticket and see off to local porters. Overnight in Hotel.  Overnight at Hotel in Lukla.

Day 13: Lukla – Kathmandu by Air (1,300m/4,264ft) 35 minutes airstrip.

Fly Back to Kathmandu (35 minutes) in the morning and transfer to your Hotel. Free afternoon.

Day 14: Final departure

Transfer to International Airport and fly to onward destination. 

Remark - Please note that cloud and turbulent weather is a regular phenomenon along the Himalayan range. It is thus possible that domestic flights from Kathmandu to/from Lukla may have to be delayed for a few hours or even cancelled for a day or more. Fortunately this does not happen frequently during the high seasons of March – May or September to November: but you need to plan for this possibility.

As a safeguard we recommend that you add on a couple of extra days after your trek before you fly from Kathmandu to your onward destination.

Departure Dates for Gokyo Lake Trek

Body wear:

T-shirt, long sleeve, half pant, long trouser, warm Jacket, fleece Jacket, Gore-tax windproof Jacket & trouser, warm trouser, rain Jacket, sleeping bag, down jacket

Head wear:

Sun hat, woolen hat/fleece hat, sunglass & scat

Hand wear:

Gloves

Foot wear:

Warm woolen socks, trekking boots & sandal

Accessories:

Personal toiletries, personal first aid kit, sun block, lip guard, shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, passport copies, pocket knives, flash light, camera & film, tawel, water bottle, music & books.

What you carry for the trek:

Please, bring the equipment listed above and pack your gear for the trek into a duffel bag or rucksacks, and small day bag for you. The larger bag with your kit will be carried by the porter to meet you each evening. You should bring a day pack to carry by yourself for water, rain jacket, hat gloves, camera money etc. The weather in mountain is changeable so you will need some warm cloths with you on your day pack.

What to do about the left over baggage:

One day before your departure for the trek you could leave the valuable things which you do not need on the trek such as passport, visa card, flight tickets, in our safety box, and the rest of the things you could store it in our store room.

What is a tea house trek? Accommodation and food facilities!

Tea house trek mean staying and eating in the local lodges. We stay in double room, rooms are basic but comfortable mattress, normally just a bed and pillow. Most of them have electric light and all have and all have specious dining room –lounge. Mostly in tea houses there are common bathroom. Hot shower also available on the tea- houses but the hot water depend on weather conditions and to pay to get the shower.  We eat at tea- house, though food is usually potential and delicious, menu is not extensive. They offer variety of potato rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup. You could choose food from the menu what you could choose the food from the menu what you would like to have. You would be able to eat the food as much as you like but you would not able to order more than enough and left the food.

Health:

It’s very important not to get sick while you are going on the trek and you need to be careful about what you eat and drink.  You need to stay healthy and avoid getting sick in order to have a successful trek.

Some tips for staying healthy:

Avoid drinking or brushing your teeth with tap water. Drink only sealed bottled or proper boiled water or use water purification tablets. During the trek avoid the temptation to test your fitness through fast walking at altitude.

Medical kit

Your guide will bring normal medical kits with him while on the trek. It is recommended that you also bring a small personal medical kit including pain killers, sore throat, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular mediation you need to bring those medicine with you and do not forget to bring extra supply if somehow one pack is lost.

The trails:

The trekking trail of Nepal vary from wide, rode-like avenues to narrow, slippery paths built out over enormous drops. In many places, a fall from the trail would be final. One most pay attention at all the time to where you are placing your fact. Be specially  careful not move while looking through the view finder of your camera.

The weather:

Nepal has the wildest altitude range of any country of the earth. Each altitude will have its’ own weather problem, from typical heat to arctic cold. In the main trekking season in the spring and fall, the weather is often stable and even the high passes may be free of snow and relatively easy to traverse at times. Those trekkers who encountered an easy at altitude nasty spread the word that boots and warm clothing are not required. This is a mistake. That sudden storm can occur at any time, dumping one or two meter of snow on the passes. At that point, any one with simple running shoes will not be able to processed and may even be stranded for a number of days. Frostbite is a constant risk if one walks in snow at high altitude.

If you trek in the winter, you most be prepared for cold and snow. If you trek in the monsoon you might be face with slippery trails and difficult rivers crossing. You are heading into the world highest mountain range. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather.

Altitude and preventing altitude:

Being in a hurry in the mountain of Nepal can be deadly. Acclimatization is the word used to describe the adjustments your body makes as it ascends. Ascend slowly and drinking lots of water is one of the best ways not to get high altitude. You should not plan to go to high altitude if you have know heart disease, difficulty to breathing at sea level or are pregnant. For other chronic medical conditions its better to consult your doctor. Sleeping pills, alcohol, smoking should not be used at altitude as they tend to decrease breathing and lead to Acute Mountain Sickness. It comes that during 3-4 liters of fluids (Water, Soup, etc) per day to avoid dehydration helps in the acclimatization process.

Tipping and cash requirement

On the trekking route do not forget to bring Nepalese rupees for drinks bottled water drinks/alcohol that might purchage on the way. The sum of amount to carry on the trekking route depends on the day and area you are going to trek in. Tipping is now common in Nepal but there is no certain rules how much should be tips and it’s not the must to tip.

Photographing people:

During a trek you will have many opportunities to photograph local people and amazing society. You could usetons of films taking amazing natural scenery but talking the picture of people it’s a good idea to ask before taking. Some people do not like you to take the picture of them. So always ask before taking the pictures.

Considering Environment:

While trekking you have to consider on the environment not to destroy the environment. There are so many ways you could help not to polluted the environment of the area such as pick up papers, film wrappers, burn all your toilet paper and bury your farce, do not make camp fire.

Insurance:

All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss or damage to personal effects.