Useful Info
Himalayan Penchant
Gokyo Lake Trek is the best alternative for travelers that wish to explore the deeper corners of the revered Everest region. This trek will provide you with an insight into the life of the locals and the silent corners of the Everest region. From picturesque villages to stunning lakes and not to mention jaw-dropping beauty of Himalayas, Gokyo Lake Trek is a fantastic journey. You will see many Himalayan mountains like Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Thamserku (6,623 m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Taboche Peak (6,501 m), etc.
Gokyo Lake Trek landmark
Lukla Airport
Lukla airport is considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world. A thrilling flight from Kathmandu will take you to Lukla, the starting point of Gokyo Lake Trekking.
Namche Bazar
Namche Bazar is the main tourist hub of the Khumbu region. This is also the main and the biggest residence area of Sherpas. Similarly, in Namche Bazar, you will find most of the facilities like WiFi, nice cafes & restaurants, luxury lodges, etc.
Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Lakes is the highest freshwater lakes in the world. There are altogether six lakes and Thonak Lake is the deepest one. However, Gokyo Lake is known as the most beautiful lake among all. These lakes are situated at 4,700 meters to 5,000 meters. Moreover, these lakes are also the holy lakes for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Gokyo Ri
Located just above Gokyo Village, Gokyo Ri is a famous viewpoint of Gokyo Valley. Trekkers usually hike up to this viewpoint to acclimatize their body as well see to witness spectacular views of snow-capped mountains.
Culture
Gokyo Valley Trek will present you the ancient and rich culture and tradition of Sherpa people. Buddhism is the main religion followed by people residing in this part of Nepal. On the trail, you will come across many monasteries, chortens, gumba and mani stones that will showcase you the cultural richness of the region. Similarly, you will stay overnight in several villages during the trek, which will give you a chance to interact with locals and take a deep look into their unique lifestyle, beliefs, and values.
Ethnic Diversity
People from the Sherpa community mostly resides in the Khumbu region. Similarly, you can also find Rais, Limbus, Sunwars, Manangis, and Lopas. All of these people are from different community and carries their own major festivals, culture, languages, dress, and delicacies.
Natural Aptitude
Gokyo Lake Trek 15-days passes by Sagarmatha National Park, which is home to many wildlife including rare ones like the red panda, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, etc. Sagarmatha National Park is also the part of UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites. The national park includes several florae and rare medicinal herbs as well. Likewise, other parts of the trail also include beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, fir, maple, cedar, juniper, etc. The entire region is extremely rich in vegetation and ranges from subalpine to alpine zone.
Gokyo Valley Trek difficulty
In spite of its delightful appeal, Gokyo lake trek is comparatively difficult to complete. You need to walk on slippery and snowy terrains for a minimum of 5 hours a day daily. Plus the high altitude entices altitude sickness and can be a major problem. You’ll need to adapt to sleeping on hard beds and withstand sub-zero temperatures. Walking past moraines requires strong willpower, strength, and stamina.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention
Gokyo Valley Trek brings chances of altitude sickness as you have will be trekking above 5,000 meters. Even though you are young and healthy, you might suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) also known as altitude sickness. Therefore, it is very important to acclimatize with the altitude before gaining more elevation. Keep yourself hydrated is the best way to avoid altitude sickness as dehydration can also lead to AMS. Drink enough water during the trek to avoid altitude sickness. In case you feel difficulty in breathing inform your guide right away so that he can take proper measures on time.
Transportation and Bag Pack
Gokyo Lake Trek begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. From Lukla, you will begin trekking towards Gokyo gradually through villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo.
Below is the list of things you should carry during Gokyo Lake Trek:
- T-shirts and Pants (Innerwear)
- Thermal Wears
- Breathable Underwears
- Trekking Pants/Shoes/Socks
- Insulating Jacket
- Rain jacket
- Warm woolen Gloves
- Sun hat/woolen hat
- Goggles
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking Pole
- First aid kit
- Toiletries (toilet paper, hand sanitizer, sunblock, towel, soap, shampoo, sanitary napkins, etc)
- Miscellaneous (camera, extra batteries, journal, cards, bars, snacks, water purification tablets, etc)
Food and Accommodation during Gokyo Valley Trek
While taking the Gokyo Lake Trek, you will reside in small lodges and teahouses in the trail. They have a wooden bed and one restroom. Do not expect for wifi, but you can find a hot shower though. The trail is not so extreme that you need to stay in camps. At Lukla and Namche, there are quality lodges available. In the cities, there are 3-star and 5-star hotels available. For food, you can choose to eat at a restaurant or eat at the hotel itself.
Food like dal bhat tarkari, momo, chowmein, thukpa, pizza, sandwich, bread, bars, tea, coffee, and other beverages can be found. In the city, you can explore around and dine in numerous restaurants & cafes that are available out there.
Best time to go on Gokyo Valley Trekking
For those that are willing to scout the mysteries of the Everest region, then it is highly recommended that you take this trek during the Spring (March to April) and Autumn (late September to November). In this time, the trails are lively, and the melting of snow provides a certain lively ambiance. Along with the clear and unblemished views of the Himalayas. You get to interact with many locals as the tourism industry booms during this time of the year.
Likewise, Monsoon (June to mid-September) is not a favored time to go on trekking in the Everest region. The rainfall makes the views unclear and trail also become slippery & full of insects. However, in Winter (December to February), people do go on trekking in this region, especially photographers as this is the best time to capture the surreal views of Himalayas. But, with excellent views comes harsh cold and heavy snowfall.
Gokyo Valley Trek Cost
Gokyo Valley Trek Cost entirely depends on the travel agency you are traveling with. There are both options of luxurious and budget-friendly Gokyo Valley Trek. We, Go For Nepal Treks & Expedition is running Gokyo Valley Trek for years. With us, you will find the most affordable and comprehensive cost for Gokyo Valley Trekking.
The cost will include food & accommodation during the trek, all necessary permits, first aid kit, and expenses of guides & porters. For more detailed information, you can check our cost includes and cost excludes part.
Miscellaneous
- Collect enough information on the weather and temperature
- Get yourself a nice map
- Maintain body hydration- drink plenty of water daily
- Walk slow and safely
- Take out insurance that will cover any emergency evacuation and property loss
- Carry hand cash as there will be no atm on the way
- Pack light
- Do not get obsessed over network and internet; spend time in nature