Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri

20 Days

Looking for a less crowded and more affordable alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp trek? The Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri offers a rewarding path through the heart of Solu and Khumbu without the need to fly to Lukla.

Follow in the legendary footsteps of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, who first approached Everest through this traditional route. Along the way, you’ll witness awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest, wander through peaceful Sherpa villages, visit ancient monasteries, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This route is ideal for trekkers with a bit more time who want a cost-effective yet authentic Himalayan experience. Traveling overland from Kathmandu to Salleri by jeep or bus, you’ll journey through scenic countryside, pass vibrant ethnic communities, and trace rivers that wind beneath towering mountain peaks.

If you’re seeking a quieter trail with genuine local encounters and stunning landscapes, the Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri is a perfect choice.

Overview

Your Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri begins with an overland journey from Kathmandu through diverse and scenic landscapes. From Salleri, the trail leads through villages like Phaplu, Chiwang, Phurteng, Salung, and Taksindu before reaching Nunthala. From there, you’ll descend to the Dudh Koshi River and ascend past Rai and Sherpa communities to Bupsa. Continuing uphill, you’ll pass Kharte, Paiya, and eventually arrive in Lukla.

From Lukla, you’ll trek through Phakding and Monjo to reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest. The trail then continues to Dole, Machhermo, and finally Gokyo, situated beside the tranquil Dudh Pokhari. A short hike to the Fifth Gokyo Lake is a rewarding side trip, while Gokyo Ri offers some of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest—often considered better than those from Kala Patthar.

After Gokyo, the route continues to Dragnag and Zonglha, then onward to Gorakshep. From there, you’ll hike to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, then begin your descent through Pheriche, retracing your steps back to Namche and Lukla. The trek concludes with a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.

Green Lotus Trekking offers a well-designed itinerary and experienced guides for this unique journey. This lesser-traveled route offers not only stunning mountain views but also a deeper connection with the diverse ethnic cultures of the Everest region.

To aid in your planning, we provide a detailed Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri Route Map, highlighting key elevation points and ideal spots for acclimatization. Whether you’re ascending high passes or exploring peaceful valleys, this map helps you make informed decisions for a safer, more enjoyable adventure. Know the heights you’ll conquer—and set off with confidence.

Benefits of Booking the Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri with Us

  • Complimentary international airport pickup and drop-off
  • Free Green Lotus Trekking t-shirt and duffle bag
  • Detailed Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri route map
  • Medical kit available if needed
  • Oximeter provided for altitude-related health monitoring
  • Free luggage storage at our office during the trek

Preparation for the Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri

Before starting the Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri, it’s important to assess both your physical fitness and mental readiness. If you’re new to trekking, we recommend preparing in advance with regular cardio activities such as running, cycling, or brisk morning walks for several weeks or months. Prior trekking or climbing experience is highly beneficial for this route.

The trek’s highest point, Kala Patthar, reaches 5,545 meters, and the trail involves multiple ascents and descents through terraced farmland and traditional Sherpa villages. You should be in good physical shape, capable of hiking 5–6 hours daily, and possess a positive mental attitude to handle the challenges and uncertainties that may arise on the trail.

Before booking your trip, we strongly advise you to consult your doctor, especially regarding any respiratory conditions, and share a copy of the medical report with us for your safety.

Useful Information for Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri

Best Season to Trek

The best times to trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when weather is stable and views are stunning. While winter (December–February) offers clear views, it can be extremely cold and snow-covered. Summer (June–August) brings monsoon rains, making the trail slippery, especially at lower altitudes. However, experienced trekkers looking to avoid crowds may still enjoy trekking during off-seasons.

Meals During the Trek

You will receive three meals daily:

  • Breakfast: Pancakes, cornflakes, local bread, chapati, porridge, eggs (any style), toast, muesli with milk, hash browns.
  • Lunch & Dinner: Similar to breakfast, with additional soups (tomato, mushroom, garlic, vegetable, chicken).
  • Drinks: Tea (black, milk, lemon, ginger, mint), coffee (milk or black).

Accommodation

  • In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a three-star hotel for two nights.
  • Along the trek, you’ll stay in teahouses, which are simple, traveler-friendly lodges with basic facilities—typically shared rooms, foam beds, and limited heating. Hot showers and electricity are available at most locations, sometimes for an extra fee. Double rooms are standard, especially during peak seasons when single rooms are scarce.

Trek Difficulty

The trek is moderate to challenging, especially for first-time trekkers. Expect to hike 5–6 hours daily on rugged trails with steep ascents and descents. The route reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters, increasing the risk of altitude sickness. Strong physical fitness and mental resilience are essential.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory. It must cover:

  • Emergency medical evacuation (including helicopter rescue) up to 6,000 meters.
  • Medical expenses and trip interruption.

Please send us your insurance details and certificate within a week of booking. Confirm with your provider that helicopter evacuation is included—don’t rely solely on online descriptions.

Altitude Sickness & Prevention

Altitude sickness can occur above 3,000 meters due to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite.

Prevention tips:

  • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
  • Eat nutritious meals.
  • Ascend slowly and allow proper acclimatization.
  • Carry Diamox (consult your doctor before use).
  • Rest or descend if symptoms appear.
  • Maintain good hygiene to prevent illness.

Packing List

Essential items include:

  • Sunglasses, sun hat, wool cap or balaclava
  • Inner/outer gloves, thermal layers (top and bottom)
  • Trekking pants, waterproof trousers, T-shirts, fleece, down jacket, windbreaker
  • Headlamp, power bank, extra batteries
  • Sunblock, hand sanitizer, wet wipes
  • Toiletries, towel, flip-flops
  • 30L daypack with rain cover
  • Socks, underwear, sleeping bag liner
  • Water bottles and purification tablets

Safety Measures

Your safety is our top priority. Green Lotus Trekking ensures:

  • Experienced guides trained in wilderness first aid
  • Leaders who monitor and motivate trekkers throughout the journey
  • Careful assessment of food and accommodation hygiene
  • Full first aid kits and essential trekking equipment
  • Authority to adjust or cancel the trek if health issues arise

Booking Procedure

Green Lotus Trekking is a licensed trekking company, affiliated with both local and international tourism organizations.

To confirm your booking:

  • Pay a 10% deposit to reserve accommodation, guides, permits, and transportation.
  • The balance can be paid upon arrival, via cash or credit card.
  • Please provide a copy of your passport and travel insurance at the time of booking.

Join us for an unforgettable adventure on the Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri!

Highlights

  • Trek to Everest Base Camp via an alternative Gokyo route through Salleri.
  • Experience authentic Rai and Sherpa culture in lesser-known villages like Salleri, Phaplu, Ringmo, Takshindo, Kharikhola, and Paiya.
  • Follow parts of the classic Jiri to Everest Base Camp trail.
  • Discover traditional farms, orchards, low mountain passes, and remote communities in the Solu region.
  • Visit iconic villages in the Khumbu region, including Lukla, Phakding, Monjo, Namche, Khunde, Khumjung, Thame, Tengboche, and Phortse.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Khumbu Icefall, glaciers, and towering 8,000-meter peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu.
  • Walk through stunning mountain valleys, waterfalls, springs, alpine forests, and rhododendron-filled woodlands.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Everest Gokyo Trek via Salleri