Everest Gokyo Ri Trek

How much does it cost to go to Gokyo Ri?

The cost of the trek to Gokyo Ri depends on several factors, including the duration of the trek, customization of the trip, any additional services, and the preferred level of luxury. Likewise, the group’s size greatly determines the trek’s cost, as many trekking companies, including ours, offer a wide range of group discounts. Generally, the trek to Gokyo Ri costs $1,150.

The trip cost includes most of the necessary services, from trekking permits and guide and porter fees to accommodation, meals, transportation, and some miscellaneous expenses. However, the cost doesn’t cover travel insurance, gear and equipment, showers, water, snacks, and souvenirs.

Journey to Gokyo Ri is all about the awe in every turn, with diverse landscapes, high-altitude views, and varied opportunities. Here is what you can expect in the Gokyo Ri trek:

Scenic Panoramic views

Everest Gokyo Ri is an astonishing destination in the Himalayas, offering scenic panoramic mountain views. The journey takes you to the iconic viewpoint, Gokyo Ri, which provides a 360-degree view of mountain peaks, including the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. Likewise, views of Mount Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu are eye-catching. Moreover, one can appeal to their eyes during sunrise and sunset.

Glacial Lakes

One of the prominent highlights of the Gokyo Ri trek is a chance to witness the glacial Gokyo Lakes. The lakes are sacred to local communities and are among the highest freshwater lakes, comprising six pristine glacial lakes. The Ngozumpa Glacier surrounds  the lake, creating an astonishing environment,

Alternative Route to EBC

The Gokyo Ri trek is an incredible alternative to the Everest Base Camp route, offering a unique journey through stunning lakes, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a less crowded, nature-focused trail.  For those wanting to combine the Gokyo Ri route with EBC, the trek offers an option to cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) and join the trail to Everest Base Camp. The trek to Gokyo Ri, combined with Everest Base Camp (EBC), takes 15 to 16 days.

Tea houses are lodges or hotels that offer accommodation and meals at the trekking destination. You’ll stay at a tea house on your journey to the Gokyo Ri trek. The local Sherpa runs the tea house, offering an authentic glimpse into their way of life. The warm hospitality, with a pretty smile on the owner’s and workers’ faces, is something you’ll never forget during your journey.

However, due to the area’s remote location, the tea houses provide basic facilities. They are generally built of wood and stone and have a kitchen, dining hall, bedrooms, and a bathroom. There are numerous tea houses at the lower elevations, including Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, but as you ascend, the facilities become minimal. Moreover, hot showers, electricity, and WIFI are also available at the tea houses, but at an extra cost.

Accommodation

Tea houses are a common resting point after longer walking days. The facilities range from basic to luxury at the lower elevations, including Namche, Lukla, and Phakding. However, due to their remote location and limited transportation accessibility, you’ll find basic facilities at the higher elevations. Generally, the tea houses offer twin-sharing simple beds with minimal amenities.

Meals Around the Trek

You’ll find meals in the identical tea houses where you’ll stay. The meals mix Nepalese and international cuisine, from comforting soups to noodles and authentic Dal Bhat. The meals are not just food but also a way to experience Nepalese cuisine. Although you’ll encounter international dishes along the way, we suggest opting for Nepalese dishes, as they are healthier, more energizing, and offer an authentic taste of Nepal. Oatmeal, bread, chapatti, omelets, and potatoes are some options for breakfast. Dal Bhat, Noodles, Momos, pasta, macaroni, Spaghetti, and Sandwiches are available options for lunch and dinner.

As you have to spend much time above 4000m altitude while trekking, we say it’s moderately complex. However, Gokyo Valley trekking doesn’t require any technical skills to climb. It involves 5-7 hours of daily walking and crossing Rocky terrain at high-altitude areas, thus increasing the difficulty of the Gokyo Trek. Gokyo Ri summit, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp, and the Kala Patthar are areas above 17000 ft, and you have to trek at this altitude.

The weather is another determining factor in the difficulty of the Everest Gokyo Trek. The weather during the winter season becomes more challenging for regular trekkers, as cold winds and snowfall cause problems during the trek. You have to wait for the regular season for your trek, which is around autumn and spring.

Altitude sickness is another probable cause that limits your Gokyo Lakes Trek. At higher altitudes, the oxygen composition in atmospheric air becomes thinner, which can cause altitude sickness to trekkers. Before trekking in Gokyo, Nepal, you must consider these difficulties and challenges. Walking for a couple of hours daily during the preparatory phase and physical training is crucial.

Some people begin to feel sick at around 3,000 m. Symptoms may be dizziness, nausea, and headache. Drinking plenty of water and tea can improve your ability to face altitude sickness. You can also go down to a lower altitude and wait overnight. Before trekking, you can consult your doctor and do physical exercise daily.

The Everest Gokyo trek is about 100 km. As it has a longer trekking route, you must walk around 5-7 hr daily. Among the 13 days of the total Gokyo Ri trek, the trekking days are about 8 km. This means you will be walking 12 to 15 km each day. Even for a very experienced trekker, getting to Gokyo and back requires about ten days of walking.

Choosing the best time for the Gokyo trek prevents you from dealing with unfavorable weather. Trekking during autumn and spring, i.e., around October and April, is the best time for the Gokyo village trek. During this season, you can explore clear mountain views with stable weather. But in the winter, you must face cold weather with frequent snowfall. I’d like you to please read the full article to find out the best time of year for trekking in Nepal.

The cost of the Gokyo Ri trek depends on various factors, including mode of transportation, accommodation, guide and Porter, food, and permit costs, among others. An average of $ 1,100-$ 1,800 per person is required. The MyEverestTrek Gokyo Trek’s price is only $999, which includes food, transportation, guide, porter, and permit costs. It’s cheaper than the classic Everest Base Camp Trek.

The cost of Lukla to Gokyo Ri for Independent trekkers can be divided into the following Categories.

Transportation cost: A flight from Kathmandu to Lukla costs around $180$ per person one way. If you have time, taking a bus to Jiri from Kathmandu is another option that costs around $15-20$. Helicopters to Gokyo cost more than plenty of local buses or jeeps.

Cost of food and drinks: In Kathmandu, it costs less than in Gokyo Valley. There are many options, and the price ranges from $5 to $10.

But at a higher altitude, you have to pay more for the food as there are fewer options. A single meal costs around 6-7$ up to Namche, and as you go higher, the meal cost becomes more expensive. A single water bottle can cost around 2-3$.

Cost of accommodation:
Around 5-7 $ per bed per night

Cost of guide and porter: A trip without a guide and porter saves around 20-25$ per day. But hiring a guide and porter is crucial for you, as they help you navigate and identify mountains, peaks, and monasteries you pass through. You can have the option to hire a porter guide, one who works as a guide and a porter.

First and foremost, you need a visa to enter Nepal (except for Indian citizens). You can obtain a one-month Nepal Travel Visa at TIA for $40 (Free for SAARC countries and Chinese citizens). To go to the Gokyo Ri trek, you must receive two trek Permits to Everest: the regional government and the national park issue.

Local area permit

Earlier, the Nepal government issued TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) cards for trekkers in Kathmandu. However, after 2018, the permit must be replaced by a local area permit, which can be issued in Lukla. After landing at Lukla Airport, the officers ask for your visa and photo so they can issue the paper immediately. The Gokyo Trek permit costs $20; you must carry it throughout the journey. This Gokyo Lakes trek permit is issued for the promotion of tourism in the Everest region.

 Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

You’ll need to issue another permit for the Gokyo trek at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. This National Park is home to the Gokyo Lakes, Mount Sagarmatha, and many unique flora/ fauna. The USD 30, plus government tax, you pay goes towards nature conservation. It’s money well spent.
Our agency arranges all the permits while you enjoy the entire journey. These are:

• A local area permit costs around 2000 Rs per person.
• Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, which costs approximately $ 30, including VAT.

Choosing My Everest Trip for the Gokyo Trek is a lifetime journey. Joining us for your adventure means discovering the magic of the Himalayas smoothly and safely. We consider ourselves the ideal partner for this adventure, thanks to our expertly designed itinerary, personalized attention, experienced team, competitive pricing, and a focus on your comfort and safety.

My Everest Trip has thoughtfully created the 11-day itinerary for the Gokyo Trek to maximize the trekker’s experience. We have an experienced team, from guides to porters, who ensure an enjoyable journey for you. Whether traveling solo or with friends, you’ll get the care and attention you deserve. At My Everest Trip, we prioritize comfort and safety to ensure a worry-free trek. Moreover, we offer high-quality service at a competitive price, ensuring the value of every penny you spend.

At 5,357 m, 17,575 ft, Gokyo Ri is one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks. The turquoise Gokyo lakes, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, and the Ngozumpa Glacier enhance the view of the mountain from the viewpoint.

The top of the Gokyo Ri viewpoint is famous for offering a view of peaks above 8000m, including Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m). The viewpoint also offers a panorama of Mt. Nuptse (7,861m), Pumori (7,161m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), and 81 distinct peaks.

Located at an elevation of 2,357m/ 17,575ft above sea level, the summit of Gokyo Ri Peak is ideal during Spring/pre-monsoon and Autumn/post-monsoon. The pre-monsoon season, from March to May, and the post-monsoon season, from September to November, are characterized by clear skies, stable weather, and mild temperatures. The summit of Gokyo Ri is 4-5km from Gokyo village, and choosing an ideal time ensures a successful expedition.

Trekkers who reach Gokyo Village must summit Gokyo Ri due to the summit’s amazing opportunities. The 360-degree view of iconic Himalayan peaks rewards the trekkers from the summit of Gokyo Ri. Likewise, one can witness a unique perspective of Gokyo lakes, with their turquoise color shimmering in the sunlight against snowy peaks. Moreover, it serves as a vantage point for nature enthusiasts seeking breathtaking landscapes.

March to May is the Spring season and one of the finest times for the Gokyo Ri Trek. It comes after a harsh Winter with pleasant weather and temperatures. The weather during that time is stable, with mild temperatures and fewer chances of unpredictable conditions. In March, the temperature of Gokyo Valley ranges from  -7°C to 7°C, from -5°C to 10°C in April, and from 0°C to 15°C in May.

One of the specialties of trekking in Gokyo from March to May is witnessing the blossoming of different-colored rhododendrons all over the trail. The lakes appear stunning with turquoise water during this time. Likewise, the stable weather during that time increased the success rate of the trek. This time offers a chance to spot Himalayan wildlife, including Himalayan tahr and other bird species.

Monsoon and Winter are two off-seasons for trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas, including the Gokyo Ri trek. Monsoons start in early June and end in late July; the intertropical zone begins in December and ends in February. Heavy rainfall occurs during the monsoon, making the trail slippery and covered with leeches. Likewise, Winter has frigid temperatures with heavy snowfall, blocking trails. Thus, the times are also known as the off-season.

However, during the off-season, the trail is less crowded, allowing trekkers to enjoy a more peaceful experience. Due to reduced demand, flights, accommodations, and other expenses are often cheaper. Yet, trekking during the off-season is not recommended due to the high challenges. Thus, consider trekking Gokyo Ri during a favorable time for a successful trek with fewer challenges.

The total distance of Gokyo Ri depends on the specific route taken. Yet, starting from Lukla and ending at Gokyo Ri, it takes 40 to 45 km/ 25–28 miles on a round-trip. Throughout the duration, trekkers pass through different elevations of prominent locations, which are as follows:

Preparation for the Gokyo Ri trek is crucial for a smooth and successful trek. It involves obtaining the necessary permits, preparing both physically and mentally, packing essential gear and equipment, and acclimating to high altitudes.

Physical Fitness

The Gokyo Lake trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Everest region, demanding good physical fitness. Focusing on building strength, endurance, and flexibility is crucial for preparing your body physically. Likewise, involved in cardio exercises to improve stamina, and strength training to handle steep ascents and descents. Additionally, consider practicing yoga or stretching to help reduce the risk of injury.

Mental Preparation

Being mentally prepared is one of the essential aspects of the Gokyo Ri trek, as it helps to handle challenges that occur during the expedition. Prepare yourself mentally for altitude-related challenges, long trekking days, and unpredictable weather conditions. Practice meditation to manage stress and stay calm, as the trek requires patience and adaptability. Moreover, maintain a positive mindset and remember that every step brings you closer to the breathtaking beauty of Everest.

Packing Essentials

Please remember that packing wisely is essential for the Gokyo trek. The weather in the area changes drastically, so packing gear that suits each temperature helps a lot. Pack moisture-wicking base and mid-layers, waterproof and windproof jackets, gloves, trekking boots, necessary documents, and other personal accessories.

Acclimatization Plan

As the trek involves altitude-related challenges, proper planning for acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness. The problem becomes apparent as you ascend above 2,500m, and the trek reaches above 5,000m, making AMS a concern. Spending 1-2 days at a higher elevation, listening to your body, and staying hydrated can help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Also, if you happen to have this problem, please feel free to rest and refrain from continuing; if the condition worsens, the only solution is to descend. Consider taking medication like Acetazolamide (Diamox).

Booking the Gokyo Ri trek with us is straightforward, as we aim to ensure a seamless and enjoyable booking process. Booking with us means creating an unforgettable experience, whether you are an experienced or first-time trekker. Here is a simple guide to help you book the trip with us:

1. Select your preferred destination.
2. If you have any queries regarding the trip, contact us via email or WhatsApp.
3. If you agree, click the Book Now option on the right.
4. We will secure your place if you don’t want to book alone.
5. To confirm your booking, we require a 50% deposit of the total trek cost. You can pay the remaining amount after landing in Nepal.
6. You’ll receive an email once your booking is confirmed; then, you can proceed with preparing for the trek, if you don’t mind.

One of the unique aspects of My Everest Trip is that we provide our clients with a local guide and porter for their trip. We mainly offer local Sherpa guides for expeditions in the Himalayas, who are experienced professionals and known for their bravery. They are familiar with the region’s trails, landscape, and culture. Most of our guides are born and raised in the areas where the trek takes place. They provide complete knowledge of the area’s history, diverse ecosystem, and culture.

Furthermore, our porters come from the area where trekkers should pass through, which can be exhausting, especially in the rugged terrain. They are friendly and hardworking and carry all your backpacks to provide you with ease and focus on the trek. As our porters are local, we aim to support the local economy by hiring them.

If you want to combine a trip like the Gokyo Ri Everest Base Camp Trek, we can customize it.