City side Breakfast and during the trek full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation:
2-3 star tourist standard hotel in ktm and Guest house during the trek
The Gokyo Valley Trek offers one of the most varied treks in the Khumbu Region, a step back in time and back into back-country Nepal. After Kathmandu sightseeing we fly to Lukla, and within a few days we break away from the somewhat crowded standard Everest Base Camp trail. We slowly work our way towards the border of Tibet, to be stopped by a world of giant ice encrusted mountain walls and glaciers.
The aim for many is to trek to Gokyo Lake(s), while others wish to ascend Gokyo Ri, to experience the amazing views from its summit. If you wish both we recommend you book an extra day.
Outline Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1300 m).
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Day 03: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 m) and trek to Phakding. 4 hrs trek.
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). 6 to 8 hrs
Day 05: Namche Bazaar
Day 06: Namche Bazzar to Phortse Village (3810 m). 6 hrs trek
Day 07: Phortse to Machhermo (4,470 m). 6 hrs trek.
Day 08: Machharmo to Gokyo (4800 m). 6 hrs trek
Day 09: Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m). 6 hrs trek
Day 10: Gokyo to Dole. 6 hrs trek
Day 11: Dole to Namche (3440m), 7 hour trek
Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2800m). 7 hrs trek
Day 13: Lukla to Kathmandu. 35 min flight
Day 14: Transfer to the airport
Cost Includes
1. TIM's trekking permit, and necessary National Park entry fees, restricted areas permits.
2. Airport arrival and departure transfer to/from hotel.
3. Necessary domestic transport as per the program.
4. Tourist class hotel, sharing, with breakfast.
5. Pre-trek meeting with guide, and welcome Nepali dinner.
6. Full day sightseeing, English speaking Guide, all entrance fees.
7. Kathmandu to Lukla, and return, by flight, accompanied by Guide.
8. Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek.
9. Lodge/guesthouse accommodation during trek. Sharing, during high season can be dormitory.
10. English speaking experienced and qualified trekking guide.
11. One porter between two pax, 8 kilo baggage per pax.
12. Guide & porters receive 'fair wage', proper equipment and full insurance coverage.
13. Group and staff first aid kit.
14. Farewell dinner, with porters in Lukla, and with Guide in Kathmandu.
15. All government taxes.
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1300 m).
We arrange transport from the airport to your hotel, to be followed by Trekk Planning meeting with your Guide. We discuss the planned trek, reply to any questions you may have, plus do an equipment check. We will require a copy of your passport ID page and Nepali entry visa, 2 photos and copy of your insurance - all so we can arrange you’re TIMs (Trekking Permit) and National Park Entry Permit.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Kathmandu is a traveler’s dream. After breakfast we introduce you to some of the city’s world heritage sites, including Bouddhanath stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath as well as other religious and cultural sites. Last minutt shopping for any equipment you may have forgotten, issue you your permits. Lunch and dinner not included.
Day 03: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 m) and trek to Phakding. 4 hrs trek.
An early breakfast followed by a spectacular view of snow capped Himalayan peaks dazzling under the light of the morning sun. After landing at Lukla, we will begin our hike towards the village Phakding. Our trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, through small Sherpa villages, we cross the river over suspension bridges, to reach our nights lodge, and a tasty Nepali dinner. From now on breakfast, lunch and dinner is included.
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). 6 to 8 hrs
After breakfast, we continue through alpine landscape, still following the Dhudh Koshi River which originates from the famous Khumbu (Everest) glacier. We enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo village, have our permits controlled, to continue to a pleasant lunch stop in Jorsale (2740m).
After lunch we cross the river once again, to reach the spectacular cross another even more spectacular suspension bridge at Larja Dobhan (2830m). From here the trail steepens, in some places taking the form of a giant staircase, others a dusty trail, all through a sweet smelling pine forest. A little over half way you may catch a glimpse of Mt Everest (8848m), for the first time. The trail continues until you reach the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar.
Day 05: Namche Bazaar
This is the first of the two days set aside for "acclimatization". You can walk around Namche Bazaar, bartering for antiques, or real fake North Face jackets... Here you find a bank, internet, bakery and even a pool hall. After breakfast we recommend a walk upto Syangboche (3880m), offering amazing views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse (8516m), Ama Dablam (6814m), Thamserku (6618m) and countless other peaks. We have a tea or coffee break at the Everest View Hotel. We descend to Namche Bazaar.
Day 06: Namche Bazzar to Phortse Village (3810 m). 6 hrs trek
We walk along a gentle angled trail that must be one of the finest in Nepal, with one mountain after another revealing themselves, as well as a photogenic view Tengboche Monastery. On reaching Sanasa (3600m), we take a short break, before a steep uphill climb to Mong Danda (3973m). Yes, an even better view point, as you look streight at Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Kangtaga and Mt. Thamserku. A great place to have lunch, before we descend to Phortse Tanga (3643m). A village said to have the best potatoes in Nepal, if not the world!
Day 07: Phortse to Machhermo (4,470 m). 6 hrs trek.
We now enter a more rugged landscape, and may spot a heard of proud Blue Sheep (mountain goats), or the elusive Musk Deer. We reach Dole, for a welcome tea stop, and climb steadily to reach Lhabarma. Here we are treated to views of Cho Oyu (8,201m) in one direction and Kantega and Thamserku in the other. The trail crosses through many summer settlements, past a charming hamlet of Luza (4360 m), and eventually we reach Machhermo.
Day 08: Machharmo to Gokyo (4800 m). 6 hrs trek
We continue, up and up, until we reach and have to cross the steep moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier. The first holy lake, Longpongo, welcomes you into the Gokyo Valley itself. You might stumble upon the Lama footprints carved in the stone. We continue to Taboche Tsho, the second lake that is connected to Dudh Pokari, the third lake.
It’s on the shore of the turquoise Dudh Pokhari that the charming hamlet of Gokyo is situated. All enhanced by Cho Oyu peak looming in the distance as the sun sets.
Day 09: Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m). 6 hrs trek
We like to offer two alternatives. Walk up the valley towards Cho Oyu, exploring the fourth, fifth and even the sixth lake. Or, ascend Gokyo Ri, at the northern edge of the main lake. From here you should experience one of the most exquisite views of the Himalayas, with Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Cho Oyu and other neighboring snow peaks at your feet!
Day 10: Gokyo to Dole. 6 hrs trek
We now take the gently downhill trail alongside the Dudh Koshi River that emerges out of the Ngozumpa Glacier. The trail descends below Phangka, and across a slope to climb a rib on the far side of the hill side to reach the Chorten, and again great views of Cho Oyo, Thamserku and Kangtega. We slowly walk down to the sprawling village of Machhermo, continue through the charming hamlets of Luza and Lhafarma to reach Dole.
Day 11: Dole to Namche (3440m), 7 hour trek
This section of the trail is blessed with an abundance and variance of vegetation. On reaching MongLa, we are again greeted by our old friends, Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kangtega. Each taking on a different characteristic than last time we passed here, as the light plays games with our minds. We descent to reach the main trail to Namche bazzar.
Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2800m). 7 hrs trek
The trail descends steeply, reaching the fast flowing Ddh Kosi once again, and we stroll along past familiar villages, before the last long ascent to Lukla. Farewell dinner with our porter staff.
Day 13: Lukla to Kathmandu. 35 min flight
We fly back to Kathmandu, a spectacular take off, and the rest of the day is yours to rest, shop, take a massage or simply wander the city streets (lunch not included, so you are free to make your own choice). In the evening we have a farewell dinner.
Day 14: Transfer to the airport
Today is your last day in Nepal. We arrange transport to Kathmandu International Airport for your next destination.
Please note that often the Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight gets delayed by a few hours or may even be canceled for one, two, or more days due to unfavorable weather conditions. Such conditions may arise even in the best seasons. Hence, in such cases, you must be prepared for long waits either at Kathmandu or Lukla airports, as this can happen either at the start or end of the trek or even both! We will do our best to avoid such delays, and arrange the next flight for you.
In case of we can arrange Helicopter rescue in such conditions, if it is available and upon request by our clients. The helicopter charges around USD 3000 and it can lift 4-5 persons per flight. Still, we suggest you to be prepared for possible delays/cancellations, and if possible to come with some extra buffer days (1-2 days) at the end of the trip to accommodate such delays. If everything runs smoothly and you still have a few days of your buffer days left then you may even engage yourself in optional activities which can be arranged by Travel Bird Nepal upon request. The optional activities may include visiting places/landmarks of your choice, adventure sports, shopping, etc.
Accommodation.
All hotels are of a good standard, within Tourist class category. Nepal is a developing country, so some rough corners should be expected, and tolerated. Electricity can suddenly be cut off, and hot water in the shower is not always guaranteed. A sense of humor is important.
When trekking we use lodges/home stays, where again the standard can vary. In the high season you may end up in a dormitory, or even sleeping in the dining room. We aim for own rooms with two or a double bed. But again: humor helps.
Food
In Kathmandu you have a wide selection of places to eat. On the trek the menu is more limited. Here we tend to eat simple, with the Nepali national dish, Dhal Bhat being popular (rice, lentils and vegetables/meat curry), but there is pizza and other exotic foods on the menu. You rarely go hungry, but standards can vary. At each meal we provide tea and coffee.
Best Season of Trekking
Trekking is best during the pre and the post monsoon periods, i.e. March to May, and even better from the end of September to early December. Winter is December to end Feb and can be too cold in most areas, and June to early September the Monsoon is upon us. Having said that, it is possible to trek in Nepal year round. Let us know your dates and interests, and we can tailor a suitable trip.
HIKING/TREKKING CHECKLIST
Boots suitable for your given trek, 4 pairs of socks, warm long johns, a windproof and a waterproof pair of trousers. Underpants, T-shirts, insulated mid layer, short and long arm shirts, fleece or wool jacket, and down jacket. Waterproof shell jacket. Gloves, warm hat, sun hat, Buff. Warm sleeping bag. Sun glasses, water bottle, first aid kit, nail clippers, note book and pen, reading material, camera. Lip cream and sun cream. Toiletries and towel. Torch, spare batteries, and charger for phone (lodges charge for this). Day pack (ca 25 to 30 ltr.). Inner shoes for the lodges.
Ski or Nordic walking poles are popular. Unless you have a knee or health issue, we recommend the use of just one. Why? When using two poles about 15% of your expended energy is in your arms, where God made legs to walk with. In addition your posture becomes more cramped, not helping with breathing at altitude. One pole allows you greater flexibility, so you may wind your way up the path, and put less pressure on the respiratory system. We recommend having one pole, especially useful on the way down, when it is steep, the path is wet, or you are simply tired.
There is phone connection over large areas of the Khumbu, however, it can somewhat erratic.
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FAQ's
When is the based season for trek ?
Trekking is best during the pre and the post monsoon periods, i.e. March to May, and even better from the end of September to early December. Winter is December to end Feb and can be too cold in most areas, and June to early September the Monsoon is upon us. Having said that, it is possible to trek in Nepal year round. Let us know your dates and interests, and we can tailor a suitable trip.
where can we eat and what kind of food available?
In Kathmandu you have a wide selection of places to eat. On the trek the menu is more limited. Here we tend to eat simple, with the Nepali national dish, Dhal Bhat being popular (rice, lentils and vegetables/meat curry), but there is pizza and other exotic foods on the menu. You rarely go hungry, but standards can vary. At each meal we provide tea and coffee.
What kind of hotel and accommodation?
All hotels are of a good standard, within Tourist class category. Nepal is a developing country, so some rough corners should be expected, and tolerated. Electricity can suddenly be cut off, and hot water in the shower is not always guaranteed. A sense of humor is important.
When trekking we use lodges/home stays, where again the standard can vary. In the high season you may end up in a dormitory, or even sleeping in the dining room. We aim for own rooms with two or a double bed. But again: humor helps.
Are there any age restrictions?
Travel Bird Nepal is aimed at and there is not any designed for people aged. So everyone will be travelling with people of a similar age or family trip.
Do couples travel with Trek?
Yes, every trip is made of a mixture of people travelling alone, as pairs of groups of friends or couples. If you travel as a couple you will be able to share a tent, if your tour includes cabin, hostel, hotel and other budget lodging accommodation then we will try to accommodate we will try to accommodate couples.
What do I need to pack?
Keep in mind that dress tends to be casual and take a practical selection of clothes for both hot and cool climates to suit the season. You may encounter a wide variety of temperatures en route due to altitude and unforeseen weather conditions, so be prepared!
Besides your essential clothes, here's a checklist of other items you should take:
Boots suitable for your given trek, 4 pairs of socks, warm long johns, a windproof and a waterproof pair of trousers. Underpants, T-shirts, insulated mid layer, short and long arm shirts, fleece or wool jacket, and down jacket. Waterproof shell jacket. Gloves, warm hat, sun hat, Buff. Warm sleeping bag. Sun glasses, water bottle, first aid kit, nail clippers, note book and pen, reading material, camera. Lip cream and sun cream. Toiletries and towel. Torch, spare batteries, and charger for phone (lodges charge for this). Day pack (ca 25 to 30 ltr.). Inner shoes for the lodges.
Ski or Nordic walking poles are popular. Unless you have a knee or health issue, we recommend the use of just one. Why? When using two poles about 15% of your expended energy is in your arms, where God made legs to walk with. In addition your posture becomes more cramped, not helping with breathing at altitude. One pole allows you greater flexibility, so you may wind your way up the path, and put less pressure on the respiratory system. We recommend having one pole, especially useful on the way down, when it is steep, the path is wet, or you are simply tired.
There is phone connection over large areas of the Khumbu, however, it can somewhat erratic.
The given costs are per person and exclude international flights. Given below are the departure dates available for online booking. If the given date is not favorable then please contact us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.
It is in the heart of the Isola 2000 ski resort, in the southern French Alps, that this friendly hotel has come to install its cozy rooms close to the ski slopes.On the program: a beautiful indoor swimming pool, a terrace with deck chairs to enjoy the sun, snowshoeing and a pleasant sauna, all on the slopes.It's simple: just leave the hotel to enter the ski area!
Please fill in our tailor-made request form
Included
1. TIM's trekking permit, and necessary National Park entry fees, restricted areas permits.
2. Airport arrival and departure transfer to/from hotel.
3. Necessary domestic transport as per the program.
4. Tourist class hotel, sharing, with breakfast.
5. Pre-trek meeting with guide, and welcome Nepali dinner.
6. Full day sightseeing, English speaking Guide, all entrance fees.
7. Kathmandu to Lukla, and return, by flight, accompanied by Guide.
8. Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek.
9. Lodge/guesthouse accommodation during trek. Sharing, during high season can be dormitory.
10. English speaking experienced and qualified trekking guide.
11. One porter between two pax, 8 kilo baggage per pax.
12. Guide & porters receive 'fair wage', proper equipment and full insurance coverage.
13. Group and staff first aid kit.
14. Farewell dinner, with porters in Lukla, and with Guide in Kathmandu.
15. All government taxes.
Excluded
1. Nepali Visa.
2. Drinks and beverages, private snacks etc.
3. Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu (allows you freedom of choice, place etc)
4. Laundry, telephone etc.
5. Tips to tour guide, trek guide, porters or hotel staff.
6. Personal equipment (see list below.
7. Personal medicine, first aid kit.
8. Travel insurance, covering trekking over 4000m, evacuation, hospitalization and repatriation.
9. Single room supplement, hotel or on trek, approx price will be given on request
