Wondering where is Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park?
It lies in the eastern part of Nepal in the Solukhumbu district. Located on the west of Ngozumpa glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas of Nepal.
Gokyo Lakes is one of the main attractions while visiting Gokyo Ri. You get to visit the oligotrophic lakes known as the world’s highest freshwater lake system. These lakes lie in the Khumjung Village Development Committee.
Our article on Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park gives you various information about Gokyo Ri. Such as how to reach Gokyo Ri or other alternative routes to complete your trek. We have also discussed the Gokyo Ri difficulties that you might face during your climb. Reaching high altitudes comes with its own benefits and disadvantages. So being well prepared beforehand can save you from trouble.
Visiting Gokyo Ri is possible at any time of the year. But the spring and autumn seasons are the best time for trekking here. These are the peak seasons when nature is at its uttermost beauty. And routes are free from rain and snowfall.
Winter and Monsoon are also great to visit Gokyo Ri. But these are the offseason due to some complications in weather conditions. However, trekking during these seasons is full of thrilling adventures.
Some of the highlights of the Gokyo Ri trek are the walks on off-beaten paths, standing on the shores of Gokyo lake, visiting popular destinations, and many more. The beauty of nature will keep you on the edge throughout the trek.
To know more about the Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park read further below:
How to Reach Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park?
There are many ways to begin your trek and reach the Gokyo Ri. Thus, we have mentioned a few of them below:
Via Flight
One of the common ways to begin the Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park trek is the scenic flight to Lukla. The narrow and small runway makes it one of the most extreme airports in the world.
After your arrival, you start your trekking journey to Gokyo Ri. From there you will pass many beautiful villages along the way and stay in a few of them during the night. Some destinations are Namche, Machermo, Gokyo valley, etc.
The airport will be busy during peak seasons due to several flights operating back and forth. So, it is better to book your flights in advance during those seasons.
Also, the flight schedule mainly depends on the weather condition. Flights are usually delayed or canceled during bad weather. So, it is best to book early morning flights.
Via Helicopter
The helicopter option is one of the best alternatives to avoid the uncertainty faced on regular flights. However, the flights are available till Gokyo Valley only. So, you will have to hike from there to summit Gokyo Ri. Most people choose the helicopter option for returning back. Also, helicopter flights are more costly than regular flights
Via Drive to Jiri
If you want to escape flying, then driving to Jiri is another alternative option to begin this trip. Drive to Jiri is inexpensive compared to the other two options. But it takes a lot of your time to reach the destination.
You will drive from Kathmandu to Jiri which takes about 8 to 9 hours. Then trek to Lukla or Phakding from there. If you choose this option then it is necessary to carry a permit for Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project as well.
How Hard is Gokyo Ri Climbing?
Climbing Mountains at high elevations is full of challenges and adventures. It is not an easy task but it is not impossible as well. You will face various difficulties while climbing Gokyo Ri. And we have mentioned a few of the common Gokyo Ri difficulties below:
Duration
The total no. of days required for the Gokyo Ri trip differs according to the itinerary of the travel agencies. Usually, the Gokyo Ri duration is around 12 days. But it can be lengthy or short according to your choice.
You will be walking for about 5 to 6 hours while covering a distance of 10 km each day. This is a moderate-level trek suitable for any level trekkers. But it can be more challenging for beginners with less or no experience. Also, proper trekking gear and equipment can help in completing the tour in a more convenient way. Comfortable yet durable hiking boots, smart backpacking, and appropriate gear and clothing can make your trek go smooth and easy.
As there will be long walking hours each day which can be tiring and challenging. So, it is better to choose long trekking packages as they will have more resting days.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is common while traveling to every high-altitude place. So, it is a major concern on this trip as well. Because the sudden change in altitude can be difficult to cope with for anyone.
Your journey begins from an altitude of 1400 m while your official trekking begins from an altitude of 2860 m above sea level. The highest altitude you will reach on this trip is 5357 m above sea level.
Altitude Sickness occurs due to the thin oxygen level at high elevations. The air is less dense in high places due to which people don’t get enough oxygen. If this sickness is not treated in time it can be fatal for one.
Some common symptoms noticed in people are nausea, headache, vomiting, breathing difficulty, loss of appetite, sleep deprivation, and many more. If you suffer from any of the symptoms inform your guide immediately.
To prevent altitude sickness you do a few of these things:
- Walk slowly traveling about 1000 feet a day
- Drink plenty of water keeping your body hydrated throughout the trek
- Eat food has plenty of carbs
- Before starting your journey do a full body check-up
Distance
The overall trekking distance of the Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park is about 92 km. The time may vary depending on your experience. The trek begins from Lukla.
The routes of Gokyo Ri are less traveled making it equally challenging. Some trails might be easy and smooth while some can be harsh and rough. The difficulty faced in terrains differs according to the season you travel in.
Like, the routes are slippery and wet during winter while it is muddy during monsoon.
Training
This trek might be suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. But the routes can be challenging without proper training. You will be making steep climbs up and down hills which adds difficulty to this trek.
To complete this trek, your willpower should be strong enough. And your body should be physically and mentally fit. Only people with a healthy body and a positive mindset can reach their destination with ease.
You don’t require any harsh training for this trek. You can do a few exercises that help increase your stamina. Such as stretching, running, swimming, short hikes, walking long hours, and many more.
You can do this training a month before the actual trek to increase your leg strength. These are normal exercises you can do along with your daily activities. Hiring a personal tutor or visiting the gym is not necessary.
With proper training and preparation, you can overcome these difficulties easily. So, do not panic and worry about them. Be calm and keep a positive mindset throughout the trip. If you are having any trouble, always inform your guide.
Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park Trekking Routes
Gokyo Ri Trek
Gokyo Ri trek is a moderate-level trek and an alternative choice for the Everest Base camp Trek. It lies in the Solu-Khumbu district of the Sagarmatha zone in province no.1. The Gokyo Ri height is about 5357 m above sea level.
Gokyo Ri is one of the best viewpoints in the Everest Region. You get to see the marvelous view of sunrise and panoramic mountains from its peak. You also get a beautiful view of Gokyo lakes from this point.
On the foot of this mountain lies Gokyo Valley, the gateway to the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri. The trails of Gokyo Ri are less crowded giving trekkers all the privacy.
During your trek, you get a wide view of various majestic mountains. Like Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and many more. As Gokyo Ri lies inside Sagarmatha national park you get to spot some endangered animals as well.
This is 11 days of Gokyo Ri Trek that begins via a scenic flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Arriving at Lukla, you begin your trekking journey towards Phakding. You stay the night here and head to Namche Bazaar the following day.
You have your rest day in Namche. During your free day, you can explore the beautiful Sherpa town and visit the museum. Or hike to Hotel Everest view to see the breathtaking scenarios of snowy peaks.
After a wonderful time in Namche, you leave the town and head towards Dole passing dense forests and suspension bridges. The next day you head towards Machhermo viewing outstanding scenes of landscapes and mountains.
From Machhermo you trek to Gokyo Valley where you stay the night. After a long wait, the day has finally come when you climb Gokyo Ri. Waking up early you make the summit to view the beautiful sunrise and various peaks.
After that, you return back to Gokyo Valley. From here, you head towards Dole and retrace your steps back to Namche and then Lukla. After your night in Lukla, you fly back to Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2860 m), 30-35 min then Trek to Phakding (2652 m), 3 to 4 hours
- Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 3: Rest Day in Namche
- Day 4: Trek to Dole (3680 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 5: Trek to Machhermo (4470 m), 4 hours
- Day 6: Trek to Gokyo Valley (4800 m), 5 hours
- Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5357 m) and return to Gokyo Valley, 4 to 5 hours
- Day 8: Trek to Dole 6 to 7 hours
- Day 9: Trek to Namche Bazaar 5 to 6 hours
- Day 10: Trek to Lukla 7 to 8 hours
- Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu
Gokyo Lakes Gokyo Ri Trekking Price Chart
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
| 1 Person | $1250 |
| 2 Person | $999 |
| 3 - 5 Person | $ 950 |
| 6 - 10 Person | $910 |
| 11 - 20 Person | $885 |
Gokyo Ri Trek with Everest Base Camp
Gokyo Ri trek with Everest Base Camp lets you visit two of the popular destinations of this region. This is a side trip you can choose if you have additional days in your schedule.
You get to visit the Base of the world’s highest mountain and cross Cho La pass, one of the three passes. The trails of Gokyo Ri connect with the standard EBC routes. It takes about 14 days off your time period.
You normally begin your trip by flying to Lukla and following the Gokyo Ri Trek routes till Gokyo Ri. From Gokyo Ri, you take another route that leads towards Everest Base Camp.
You also reach Kala Patthar, famous for its sunset view. This trek is full of exciting adventure that keeps you entertained throughout the trek. The stunning views of marvelous peaks seen on these routes will mesmerize you.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2860 m), 30-35 min from Kathmandu then trek to Phakding (2652 m)
- Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 3: Rest Day in Namche
- Day 4: Trek to Dole (3680 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 5: Trek to Machhermo (4470 m), 4 hours
- Day 6: Trek to Gokyo Valley (4800 m), 5 hours
- Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri then Trek to Thangnak (4700 m), 4 hours
- Day 8: Trek to Dzongla ( 4843 m) via Cho La Pass (5360 m), 7 to 8 hours
- Day 9: Trek to Lobuche (4930 m), 3 hours
- Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep and hike to Everest Base Camp (5364 m) and Back to Gorak Shep (5170 m), 8 hours
- Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar (5644 m) then trek to Pheriche (3440 m), 7 hours
- Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar 7 to 8 hours
- Day 13: Trek to Lukla 7 to 8 hours
- Day 14: Flight back to Kathmandu
Short Gokyo Lake Ri Trek
The short Gokyo Lake trek is a journey that offers all of the best attributes and features of Gokyo RI Sagarmatha National Park to present you with a short trekking experience perfect for all travelers who are lesson time. This trek starts from Kathmandu to the Lukla flight and leads up to the most beautiful place of Sagarmatha National park “Gokyo Ri” via Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Gokyo Lakes. This trek can be done in 8 days without the acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. If you have a previous hiking \trekking experience in the high Himalayas and with lesson time, this short Gokyo lakes trek is perfect for you.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Fly to Lukla (2860m) for 30 min, trek to Phakding (2610m), 2-3 hours.
- Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m), 6-7 hours.
- Day 03: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole 4040m, 6 hours.
- Day 04: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4200m), 3-4 hours.
- Day 05: Trek from Mechhermo to Gokyo Lakes Village (4790m), 4 hours.
- Day 06: Hike up to Gokyo Ri and Trek to Namche Bazar, 09-10 hours.
- Day 07: Trek from Namche Bazar to Lukla, 7 hours.
- Day 08: Fly to Kathmandu.
Short Gokyo Lakes Gokyo Ri Trek Price Chart
| Group Size | Price Per - Person |
| 1 Person | $ 1150 |
| 2 Person | $950 |
| 3 - 5 Person | $890 |
| 6 -10 Person | $850 |
| 11 - 20 Person | $825 |
Jiri To Gokyo Ri
Many people are unknown of the fact that you can reach Gokyo Ri via Jiri as well. This route is one of the oldest trekking options. There is no direct road transportation to Lukla but you can trek from Jiri to Phakding.
This is the longest trekking route among other alternative routes. It takes about 19 days to reach and return back. You will be passing through many traditional villages of Sherpa, Gurung, Rai, etc.
You get to experience their warm hospitality and unique culture and tradition. The route is full of astounding views of peaks and landscapes.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive to Kathmandu from Jiri (1950 m), 7 to 8 hours
- Day 2: Trek to Shivalaya (1810 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 3: Trek to Bhandar (2150 m), 5 hours
- Day 4: Trek to Sete (2575 m), 6 hours
- Day 5: Trek to Junbesi (2675 m), 6 to 7 hours
- Day 6: Trek to Nunthala (2440 m), 7 hours
- Day 7: Trek to Khari Khola (2070 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 8: Trek to Pujyan (2720 m), 6 to 7 hours
- Day 9: Trek to Phakding (2640 m), 6 hours
- Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m), 4 hours
- Day 11: Acclimation Day
- Day 12: Trek to Phortse Tenga (3680 m), 5 to 6 hours
- Day 13: Trek to Machhermo (4470 m), 6 hours
- Day 14: Trek to Gokyo Valley (4800 m), 4 to 5 hours
- Day 15: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5357 m) then trek back to Gokyo valley, 4 hours
- Day 16: Trek to Phortse (3810 m), 7 hours
- Day 17: Trek to Namche 6 hours
- Day 18: Trek to Lukla 7 to 8 hour
- Day 19: Fly to Kathmandu
