Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. Once you're settled at the hotel, we will schedule a trip briefing at the hotel lobby or restaurant.

Your Gokyo Valley Trek begins with a 45-minute scenic flight to Lukla, offering stunning views of the mountain ranges. Upon arrival at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, a Sherpa guide will meet you and lead you to Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing the Kusum River before reaching Phakding. It’s important to pace yourself to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. After a short trek, you'll spend the night at a Sherpa-run teahouse.

"On your way to Namche, you'll pass through Sherpa villages like Bengkar, Monjo, and Jorsale. The trail between Phakding and Namche includes several hills. As you cross the Dudh Koshi River at Bengkar, you'll be treated to views of snow-capped peaks like Kusum Kanguru and Thamserku. After passing through a few settlements, you'll reach the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint, where your permits will be checked. To reach Namche Bazaar, cross one of the suspension bridges over the river. From Namche, you'll enjoy stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Taweche.

Before starting the Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek, take time to rest and acclimatize in Namche. This bustling town in the Khumbu region offers amenities like bakeries, restaurants, ATMs, and internet cafés. You can also visit nearby viewpoints, such as Thame or Khunde, or explore the Tourist Visitor Center to learn about Sherpa culture, Everest climbers, and their rituals. A hike to the Everest View Hotel offers breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho-Oyu, Thamserku, and more. After exploring, return to Namche for the evening.

We begin our walk early to enjoy clear views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The trail winds through lush vegetation, with wildlife like musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and pheasants. After descending past Kayangjuma, we reach the junction of the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Valley trails. From here, we climb to Mong La Pass, where the sacred Khumbila stands prominently. Beyond Mong La, we pass through rhododendron forests, wildflowers, and more wildlife. After crossing several waterfalls and bridges, we reach the village of Dole for an overnight stay.

Using the Gokyo Valley Trek Map, you will navigate the route from Dhole to Macchermo, observing changes in vegetation and terrain. After ascending a ridge, the trail passes temporary villages in Lhabarma and Luza. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Kantega, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, and the Ngozumpa glacier. As you walk, you may catch glimpses of the deep Dudh Koshi valley. Your journey concludes at Machhermo, where a stream begins, flowing from Kyajo Ri and Phari Lapche.

Begin your Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek by ascending a ridge for stunning views of Mount Cho Oyu. After passing Phangkha, descend to the riverbed, where you'll see the Ngazumpa glacier's last moraine. Continue up the moraine toward Longpongo, the first lake, crossing a creek via an iron bridge. Next, you'll reach Taboche Tsho, the second lake, marked by the Lama's Footprints on a stone. The sight of the sparkling blue Dudh Pokhari, the third lake, will inspire you to continue to Gokyo villages, located nearby.

Day two of the Gokyo Valley Trek is for acclimatization, offering a chance to adjust before continuing. If the weather is clear, you can hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri in the morning for breathtaking views of the entire Khumbu region, including Mount Everest. The early sunshine reveals magnificent views of peaks like Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. Alternatively, you can head three kilometers north to the peaceful fourth lake, Thonak Tsho. For those with higher fitness, continue to the fifth lake, Ngozumpa Tsho, and enjoy stunning views of the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

Today will be one of the most exciting as you cross Renjo La Pass. The trek starts easy, but it becomes more challenging as you approach the summit. After crossing the pass, Gokyo Valley will be behind you, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Depending on the season, you may also see activities like yak herding. The trail continues down the stairs toward Angladumba Tsho, passing Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake along the way. To reach Lumde, you’ll pass through a narrow valley filled with large stones.

"Today, your Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek begins from Lumde, heading toward Namche Bazaar after crossing the Bhote Koshi River. After descending from Renjo La Pass, you’ll reach Marlung, a rural village by the river. From there, continue to the charming settlement of Taranga along Langmuche Khola. Next, you'll arrive at Thame, and after crossing a suspension bridge, you'll reach Samde, where stunning mountain views await. In the village of Thamo, visit the Khari Goma monastery, which also serves as a nunnery. After passing Phurte and Laudo Monastery, you’ll reach the world’s highest power plant, built with Australian aid. Finally, after crossing chortens, mani stones, and prayer flags, you’ll arrive at Namche.

Today, your Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek starts in Namche and ends in Lukla. The descent begins with a steep slope that leads to the airport area, presenting significant challenges. Move slowly and carefully across the bridge to enter the alpine forest and cross the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing several suspension bridges over the fast-flowing river and its tributaries, the trail flattens but remains fragile. Enjoy the contrast of wide plains, pine and rhododendron forests, and distant snow-capped peaks. Passing through the villages of Monjo, Phakding, and Chheplung, you'll finally reach Lukla, where you can explore walls and monasteries.

It’s time to say goodbye to Nepal’s Khumbu region. Our Sherpas will transport your bags to the airport, and the guides will assist with airport formalities. Once your flight arrives, you'll board the plane for your return to Kathmandu. After landing, you'll be transferred to your accommodation. Enjoy your remaining time by exploring Kathmandu’s famous markets. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner, where we’ll discuss the trip and gather your feedback.

On the final day of your Gokyo Valley Trek, one of our team members will assist you with your transfer to the airport. If you'd like to extend your trip, Green Valley Nepal Treks can assist with arrangements. If your flight is in the evening, you’ll have time to shop for souvenirs for your friends and family.