Gokyo Valley Trek – A Hidden Gem in the Everest Region

The Gokyo Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most awe-inspiring and peaceful trekking routes, taking adventurers into the remote and stunningly beautiful Gokyo Valley, nestled in the heart of the Khumbu region. This trek offers an exceptional alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp Trek, allowing you to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas without the heavy crowds. It is ideal for trekkers seeking tranquility, raw natural beauty, and unique cultural encounters.

Unlike the traditional route to Everest Base Camp, the Gokyo Valley Trek follows a path less traveled, guiding you through quaint Sherpa villages, dense rhododendron forests, and across the breathtaking Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. As you gain altitude, the trail opens up to reveal the serene Gokyo Lakes, a series of six stunning glacial lakes that shimmer in shades of turquoise under the high Himalayan sun. These sacred lakes are not only visually captivating but also hold deep religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.

One of the highlights of this trek is the early morning hike up Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters). From the summit, trekkers are rewarded with a panoramic view that is considered one of the most spectacular in Nepal. You can witness a breathtaking 360-degree Himalayan panorama, including four of the world’s highest peaks: Mt. Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,481m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m)—all standing proudly above the clouds.

Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Sherpa people, visit ancient monasteries, spin prayer wheels, and experience their warm hospitality in remote mountain lodges (teahouses). The trek is moderately challenging, with a few steep ascents and high-altitude sections, making it suitable for physically fit individuals with some prior trekking experience or determination.

This trek typically takes 12 to 14 days, beginning with a thrilling scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by gradual ascents through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and finally into the Gokyo Valley. Acclimatization is crucial along the way, and the itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time to adjust to the high altitude, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Highlights of Everest Three High Passes Trek:

Panoramic View from Gokyo Ri (5,357m)
Stunning sunrise views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

• the viewpoint of Kalapathar (5550m)
• – The side trip to Chhukung Ri for wonderful panoramic views over 8,000m massifs.
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How Difficult Is Everest High Passes Trek?

This is a bit difficult than Everest Base camp trek. But nothing to worry, if you have an earlier high altitude trekking experience and are physically fit, this trek can be attempted. The trails aren’t rough. You might need to use crampons during the descent from Cho La Pass.

During this trek, you will cross three passes above 5000m (Renjo La, Cho La and Khongma La Pass) and will be walking around 6-7 hours per day on average.

Acclimatisation

It is obvious that you might have doubts about altitude for Everest three high passes trek. Our program and with possibilities of different side trips allow you to perfectly acclimatize before crossing the passes over 5000m.

• – In Namche Bazaar, we will visit the Khumjung village in the afternoon for the acclimatisation.
• – Similarly, we have chosen to stay one more day in Thame instead of Namche, because there are many possibilities of doing a perfect side trip around Thame and of course, its a beautiful small village. Sumdur Peak or hike around Thame will help you a lot to acclimatise.
• – We do have a couple of days in the program, where we will walk for 3-4 hours. This allows your body to rest and slowly acclimatise to the altitude.
• – Our side trip to Gokyo Ri (5360m) or Cho Oyu Base Camp (5200m) will be a great advantage during our Everest three high passes trek.