Gokyo Valley Trekking - 14 Days

Welcome to Nepal. On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, take some time to rest and acclimatize to the pace and rhythm of the city. If time permits, your guide can arrange a short orientation walk in Thamel — a colorful neighborhood of shops and cafes — where you can purchase last-minute trekking essentials or exchange currency. In the evening there will be a briefing about the trek: flight schedule to Lukla, luggage limits for the flight, daily walking times, the guide and porter arrangements, and a final equipment check. Dinner is at the hotel or a nearby restaurant; try a warming dal bhat (local lentil and rice meal) to prepare for the days ahead.

Today is for cultural immersion and practical preparation. After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage sites: the sacred Pashupatinath Temple (observe Hindu cremation ghats from a respectful distance), the serene Boudhanath Stupa with its fluttering prayer flags, and the ancient Durbar Square of Kathmandu or Patan (Lalitpur), where traditional Newar architecture and temples create a captivating atmosphere. Your guide will also handle any last-minute permits (TIMS and Sagarmatha National Park entry) and confirm domestic flight details for the next day. Use the afternoon to finalize packing and rest — an early night is recommended ahead of tomorrow’s early flight to Lukla.

Rise early for the short domestic flight to Lukla — one of the most scenic (and talked-about) flights in the world, landing at the mountain airstrip immersed in Himalayan ridges. From Lukla the trek begins on wide, well-trodden trails along the Dudh Koshi River. The path weaves through Sherpa villages, mani walls, suspension bridges, and rhododendron forests. Expect 3–5 hours of comfortable walking, mostly downhill then gently ascending into the valley, arriving at Phakding for lunch and a relaxed afternoon. Take a short walk to explore the village — the local gompas (monasteries) and tea houses provide a pleasant introduction to Sherpa culture. Overnight in a teahouse; dinner and hot drinks will warm you up.

Today’s route climbs steadily to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa trading hub and gateway to Everest. The trail includes the dramatic crossing of the Dudh Koshi on suspension bridges and a sustained ascent through forested slopes. As you climb higher the views open to reveal your first glimpses of towering peaks, including Everest on a clear day. Expect 5–7 hours walking, with scenic tea-house stops en route. Arrive in Namche Bazaar in the afternoon — explore the market, visit the Sherpa Museum, and enjoy a cup of strong Himalayan tea while taking in panoramic mountain vistas. Overnight in a comfortable lodge or teahouse with communal dinner.

This is an important acclimatization day. Namche sits at a good altitude for resting, so use the time to prevent altitude sickness and adapt comfortably. Options include an easy hike to the Everest View Hotel for spectacular sunrise views over Everest (weather permitting), or a longer acclimatization walk to Syangboche and Khunde to visit local monasteries and clinics, and observe high-altitude life. Your guide will lead a short acclimatization walk to keep circulation active and monitor everyone’s condition. Use the afternoon to explore local shops, browse handicrafts, and rest. Hydration and light, frequent meals are recommended.

Leaving Namche, the trail becomes quieter and more remote as you head deeper into the Gokyo Valley region. Today’s trek crosses ups and downs on narrow ridgelines and through small Sherpa settlements, with outstanding mountain scenery at every turn. Phortse Tanga is a peaceful hamlet where you’ll spend the night in a friendly teahouse. Walking time is typically 5–6 hours, allowing time for photography and short breaks. Evening conversation over dinner will often include stories of the Khumbu region and its traditions.

The ascent to Dole climbs into higher alpine terrain. The air becomes crisper and the terrain more rugged, with sparse vegetation and occasional ice or snow patches depending on the season. Expect 5–6 hours of trekking with steady elevation gain. Dole offers dramatic mountain panoramas and is a quieter stop compared to busier villages. Focus on steady pacing, frequent water intake, and keeping energy levels high with snacks and hot soups. Accommodation is basic but warm; teahouse staff are experienced in supporting high-altitude trekkers.

Today’s walk to Machermo continues through classic Khumbu scenery — high ridgelines, glacial valleys, and yak pastures. You’ll notice more Buddhist prayer flags and mani stones as you approach sacred highland zones. Walking time is usually 4–5 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace to adjust to the altitude. Machermo is a well-established teahouse stop offering hearty meals and a chance to rest before reaching Gokyo. This village is also a good place to observe the distinctive high-altitude flora and fauna, including mountain birds and occasional glimpses of wildlife.

The approach to Gokyo is spectacular: icy streams, moraines, and finally the turquoise Gokyo Lakes lying beneath towering peaks. Today’s trek is steady but can feel long because of the altitude. Allow 4–6 hours walking time with many photo stops — the payoff is a stunning alpine lake setting and dramatic views of Cho Oyu and other giants. Upon arrival in Gokyo village you’ll be greeted by the glacial lakes’ surreal colors and a crisp mountain atmosphere. Spend the evening exploring the lakeshore and soaking in the extraordinary panorama. Sleep early after dinner to be ready for sunrise explorations.

A full day in Gokyo allows for exploration and acclimatization. The highlight is an ascent to Gokyo Ri (if the group is fit and weather permits) for an unforgettable 360-degree panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu — an optional but highly recommended climb early in the morning for the best light. Alternatively, you can hike to the higher lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier viewpoint to appreciate the scale of the glacial system. Take time this day for slow, mindful walking and photography; keep hydrated and rest between excursions. Another evening in Gokyo gives you time to reflect on the region’s beauty.

Retracing part of the route, you’ll head back toward Dole. The descent is easier on the legs but still requires care on rough ground. Walking time is typically 4–5 hours. Take in last views of the lake region and keep an eye out for seasonal changes in light and color that make the return journey equally rewarding. Arrive at Dole with time to relax; enjoy a well-earned hot meal and rest.

This day involves a significant descent, returning you to the more bustling atmosphere of Namche Bazaar. Expect 6–7 hours of walking, with several ups and downs as the trail winds down through forests and villages. Reaching Namche feels like a return to civilization — there’s a lively market, bakeries, and cafes to celebrate the return. Use the evening to shop for souvenirs, send postcards, or simply relax in a comfortable lodge.

The final trekking leg leads back to Lukla. It’s a long walking day (5–7 hours), mostly downhill, but the trail still demands concentration over rocky sections and suspension bridges. Upon arrival in Lukla you’ll find a small airstrip community with vibrant trekking activity, last-minute shopping, and celebratory meals. Tonight is a special evening with the trekking team — exchange thanks and stories, and pack carefully for the early flight the next morning.

Early morning transfer to the Lukla airstrip for your flight back to Kathmandu. The flight is brief but scenic; on arrival you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Use the rest of the day to relax, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate the completion of your trek with a special dinner in Kathmandu. If time allows, your guide can help arrange a short additional sightseeing or shopping trip. Transfer to the airport for onward travel can be arranged according to your flight schedule.

Today is we will drop you airport 3 hours before of your boarding