Nepal and its Everest region is a trekking paradise, so it is the first name that comes to one’s mind when thinking of going on a trek. The routes are renowned globally for their remoteness and mountain climbing.
In recent years, many people have been visiting Gokyo Ri in this region. So, with increased popularity, a frequently asked question is- where is Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park?
Before answering your question, you should know the trip to Gokyo Ri has a thrilling and challenging route. You get to enjoy the panoramic vista of beautiful landscapes and mountains.
Silent trails are the best characteristic of the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek. We have mentioned various information related to this peak in our “Where is Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park” article.
So, keep reading further for more information:
Where is Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park?
Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park resides in the eastern area of Nepal in the Khumbu district. This beautiful peak lies west of the largest glacier of Nepal, the Ngozumpa Glacier, and above the beautiful Gokyo village.
Gokyo Ri is also part of the famous Sagarmatha National Park. This park is renowned for housing many famous trekking and climbing routes. Among these routes, the Everest Gokyo Ri routes also pass through here.
Gokyo Ri Everest is an enchanting area with amazing landscapes, historical culture, and beautiful mountains. The trails offer everything from wild flora to endangered animals, lush green forests to rocky peaks, and more.
The Gokyo Ri route also leads you to the oligotrophic Gokyo lakes, the highest freshwater lake system in the world. It passes you through the traditional village of Sherpa while learning about their lifestyle.
You get to see the view of Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, and many other peaks from the Gokyo Ri Summit.
Highlight of Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park
- View exquisite peaks of Everest region like Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Makalu, and more
- Hike to the world’s highest hotel
- Learn the culture and tradition of regional sherpa people
- Trek through Sagarmatha National Park, one of the UNESCO sites
- Summit Gokyo Ri located above 5000 m
- Explore the beautiful Gokyo valley
Outline Itinerary for 12 Days Gokyo Ri Everest
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1400 m)
- Includes Breakfast only
- Overnight at Kathmandu
Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2850 m/ 9350 ft) then walk to Phakding (2651 m/ 8697 ft)
- Flight duration: 30 minutes
- Walking distance: 6.2 km/ 3.85 miles
- Walking duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Phakding
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3438 m/ 11279 ft)
- Walking distance: 7.4 km/ 4.6 miles
- Walking hours: 6 hours
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Acclimatization Day
- Explore nearby villages and hike to the viewpoint
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Namche
Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Dole (3680 m/ 12073 ft)
- Walking distance: 11 km/ 6.8 miles
- Walking hours: 5 hours
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Dole
Day 6: Dole to Machhermo (3870 m/ 12696 ft)
- Walking distance: 5 km/ 3.1 miles
- Walking hours: 4 to 5 hours
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Machhermo
Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo (4800 m/ 15748 ft)
- Walking distance: 7.1 km/ 4.4 miles
- Walking hours: 4 hours
- Hike to Gokyo Ri (in the afternoon)
- Gokyo Ri altitude: 5357 m/ 17575 ft
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Gokyo
Day 8: Gokyo to Machhermo
- Hike to Gokyo 4th lake (during the morning)
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Machhermo
Day 9: Machhermo to Dole
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Dole
Day 10: Dole to Namche Bazaar
- Walking distance: 11.5 km/ 7.1 miles
- Walking duration: 7 hours
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Namche Bazaar
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Walking distance: 13.5 km/ 8.3 miles
- Walking duration: 8 hours
- Includes three meals
- Overnight at Lukla
Day 12: Lukla to Kathmandu
- Includes breakfast only
- Overnight at Kathmandu
Different Ways to Reach Himalaya Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park
Himalaya Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park is a marvelous peak in the Everest region. The place is in a remote area, so there are no fancy streets to drive here. But there are various ways to start the trip and reach Gokyo Ri Everest, some of them are mentioned below:
Via Flight
The scenic flight to Lukla is one of the usual ways to begin the trek to Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park. Your flight takes off from Kathmandu and lands you at the small and narrow runway of Lukla.
From there, you begin the trekking trip to Gokyo Ri passing several beautiful villages and farmlands. You will stay some nights in a few of the traditional settlements like Namche, Dole, and more.
Regular flights are operated back and forth from Kathmandu, but the airport gets busy during peak seasons, so book your seats in advance. The flight cost ranges from USD 175 to 200.
Only early morning flights operate between Kathmandu and Lukla due to weather conditions. During bad climatic conditions, the flights normally get canceled or delayed.
Via Helicopter
After regular flights, Helicopter tours are the best alternative option to reach Gokyo Ri. Choosing Helicopter flights to Everest Gokyo Ri saves your time and energy, but the flights land you at Gokyo valley.
From there, you have to make the steep up and down walk to reach the Gokyo Ri Summit. Unlike regular flights, the cost of helicopter tours is more expensive but luxurious and comfortable.
With the heli tour, you can fly at your own time. Plus the seating capacity is for 5 pax only, so you get to enjoy the ride in comfort. Helicopter flights operate even if regular flights are unavailable, so many choose this option.
The average cost for Gokyo Ri Helicopter tours is about USD 2500 to 3000 for private flights and USD 500 to 600 for group joining.
Drive to Jiri
If you do not prefer flying then there is a driving option as well. The drive from Kathmandu to Jiri is another alternative for flights and helicopters. It is best for budget travelers as the trip is inexpensive compared to the other two.
However, driving to Jiri does take longer to reach Gokyo Ri Everest because you have to first trek to Lukla and Phakding from Jiri which adds extra trekking days to your trip.
The journey is extended by 4 to 5 days, but it is a great option if you are short on cash to board a flight.
When to Visit Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park?
Among the four seasons, spring and autumn are the best months to visit Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park. Trekking in winter is also suitable, but monsoon is least-recommended. To know more about the seasons read below:
Spring
March, April, and May are the months of spring and the best time to visit Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park. The climatic condition is stable and dry making it perfect for high altitude trekking.
Spring provides an undisturbed and clear panoramic view of the mountains, valleys, and landscapes in general. This season also brings a new beginning to nature and greenery to the hills.
The spring months are filled with blooming colorful rhododendrons among the lush green forests. The trails also take you alongside the gushing rivers and waterfalls.
The earlier weeks of March are chilly as winter cold is still lingering in the mountains, but the sky is clear with bright sun. The cold will have died down by the latter weeks making the paths sunny and warm.
The average Gokyo Ri temperature ranges from 22 degrees to 10 degrees. Overall, the trails are vibrant with warm sun, colorful forests, and blue sky during this time of the year.
Autumn
September, October, and November are the months of Autumn and another best time to visit Gokyo Ri Everest. Autumn is a post-monsoon season, so the rain showers will have washed the dirt away by its beginning.
The beauty of nature seen during the autumn months urges trekkers and visitors to visit Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park at this time. The clear visibility with fewer heat clouds is the main characteristic of this period.
By autumn, the rainy season will come to a halt, thus blossoming the lush landscapes with bright flowers and gushing waterfalls. The average Gokyo Ri temperature ranges from 15 degrees to 8 degrees.
Overall, the weather is crisp with warm days and an unhampered view of your surroundings. However, the nights get chilly as you keep reaching higher elevations.
Winter
December, January, and February are the months of winter and an alternative season to visit Gokyo Ri Everest. Winter has the coldest months, but also the quietest routes with clear visibility.
Winter is for those people who love to spend time in nature with fewer crowds and can handle cold. The views are perfect during this season, but the heavy snowfall and freezing temperature make the trek unfavorable.
December and late February are suitable to visit Gokyo Ri as there are no snowfall occurrences. However, trekking from January to mid-February can be risky and challenging.
The average Gokyo Ri temperature ranges from 5 degrees to -11 degrees. The routes get blocked due to landslides or avalanches in some places. Other than that, the sky is clear, days are warm, but nights are cold.
Monsoon
June, July, and August are the months of Monsoon and the least ideal time to visit Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park. There are heavy and continuous rainfall occurrences causing landslides and floods during this period.
Aside from that, the trails are muddy, and dark rain clouds obscure the mountain views. If you do not prefer humid or wet weather, then the monsoon season will be full of disappointment for you.
The average Gokyo Ri temperature ranges from 18 degrees to 3 degrees. Due to regular rain showers, it keeps getting colder as you continue rising the elevation. So, pack warm clothes like sweaters, woolen hats, mittens, etc., to keep you cozy.
However, the best thing about monsoon is the uncrowded routes and new species of wild flora blooming along the paths. If you wish to travel during monsoon seasons then visit during early June or late August.
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How hard is Gokyo Ri Trek Sagarmatha National Park?
Climbing Gokyo Ri Everest is considered moderate-level difficulty. Reaching the summit is full of adventures and challenges that keep you on your feet. So, completing the trip is harsh, but not impossible.
You will walk long hours each day through rugged topography, so being in good shape is necessary. The steep up and downhill trek on the rough, unpaved terrains will be burdensome for novice trekkers.
The routes have strenuous difficulty, so you need to understand the complexity and challenges of it. If you think climbing to a high elevation is like walking in a park, then finishing the Gokyo Ri Trek Sagarmatha will be quite impossible for you.
Overall, the Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park is doable for everyone, but you should be more focused and prepared for this trip. Any miscalculation can end the trek with disappointment.
Factors that add Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park Difficulty
Walking along rugged terrains can be hectic at times. Like any other trek, Gokyo Ri Everest also has several factors that add difficulty during the journey. So, be aware of the difficulties you might face during the trip.
You can’t predict all of them, but some common challenges of Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park are:
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness has always been the main factor contributing to Everest Gokyo Ri Trek’s difficulty. Traveling to higher elevations is not an easy task and altitude sickness has never made it fun.
Suffering from AMS is common when trekking to high places, so it has always been a major concern for trekkers. Not all, but some people can’t cope up with the sudden change in altitude, causing them acute mountain sickness.
Altitude sickness is caused due to low oxygen levels in higher places because the air is light there. Some travelers’ bodies can’t handle sudden fluctuations in oxygen levels which causes them AMS.
You make a direct flight from 1400 m to 2860 m and officially begin the trek from there to 5357 m elevation. So, the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness are high during this trip.
Nausea, headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, breathing difficulty, sleep deprivation, etc., are some of the usual symptoms of Altitude sickness. If you get any of these signs inform someone and halt your trek or head to a lower elevation.
Duration
Duration is a major factor that contributes to increasing the Gokyo Ri difficulty. The total amount of trekking days differs according to the package and itinerary of the company.
Normally, the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek takes about 12 to 15 days to complete the entire journey. But if you wish you can customize the itinerary and make it long or short as per your need.
The no. of days in the Gokyo Ri itinerary determines the duration of the trek. On a standard scale, every trekker should walk for about 5 to 6 hours every day on the trails.
But many people with the greed to finish the trek faster shorten their itinerary without adding acclimatization which is a huge mistake. Due to this, your everyday walking duration increases to 9 hours which will be tiring and difficult for the trekkers.
Also without rest days, your body won’t have time to adjust to the new environment, thus increasing the risk of acute mountain sickness. Choosing a short itinerary helps you finish the journey faster, but increases the health-related problem.
So, unless you have prior trekking experience to high places without acclimatization, we advise you to keep the no. of days as long as possible. Having a longer itinerary increases your days in the mountains, but lessens your burden by decreasing the walking hours and adding extra acclimatization.
Distance
The everyday walking distance is 15 to 20 km on a trek. Gokyo Ri Everest covers a total distance of 92 km and you need to walk 10 to 15 km each day to complete the trek.
However, the distance you cover depends on your experience, strength, and stamina. If you are used to walking several hours through the rugged terrain, then you can easily cover more intervals than others.
But if you can’t even walk an hour or two up and down the steep trails, then the journey will be harsh and challenging. The routes won’t be smooth or paved, so you can easily get tired and have leg cramps.
A small 2 to 3 km distance will also feel like a two, three days worth walk for unprepared trekkers. Plus, the slippery and wet trails during winter and monsoon will make you feel despair.
Physical Stamina
The Gokyo Ri trails are suitable for beginner and experienced trekkers, but corporeal endurance is a must. You need a strong physique and calm mindset to walk every day through the steep grounds and rugged paths.
The trails lead you above 5000 m, so completing the trek without good physical stamina will be challenging and tricky. Plus, you will complicate your journey along with others without a fit body.
You will easily get tired and might not be able to move further halting your fellow companion as well. Sometimes, it can be so painful that you might not be able to move for a day or two.
So, you need to have strong willpower and fitness before you begin the trek. Do not let the harsh trails slow you or your companions down.
Weather and Temperature
The changeable weather and temperature in Gokyo Ri Everest make it notoriously difficult to predict. No one can say what the climate will be like in the next hour.
It can be clear, bright, and sunny one moment and windy the next. The weather changes without any warning in the mountains which adds difficulty in the Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park.
Moreover, the weather and temperature will be a major problem during monsoon and winter. The climatic conditions are not very favorable during these seasons for tours or trips in the Himalayas.
During winter, you come across route blockages in higher regions due to blizzards, avalanches, and heavy snowfall. Plus, the flights and helicopters do not operate during dense fog. However, if you do manage to continue the journey, the freezing temperature will lower your determination.
Likewise, monsoon is an unfavorable season as many flights get canceled or delayed due to non-stop rainfall at this time. However, if you do manage to reach the trails then the dark clouds obstruct your view giving you disappointment.
Accommodation
Traveling during peak seasons comes with a price as the routes are busy and pack at this time. Weather and temperature are at their best during this period, so trekkers from around the world visit Gokyo Ri Everest.
Due to these reasons, you will not find the desired accommodation on the trails. Plus, if you have no booking in the lodges, you might not even find a place for the night.
If you do manage to find a place, you have to share the room and bathroom. Also with the packed lobby and dining area, you won’t find any privacy in the lodge and tea house.
Not only accommodation but the trails will also be crowded which will be quite a disappointment. You might not get a chance to click a decent picture of the marvelous mountain.
Weight and luggage
Weight might not seem like a problem for you, but it does add to Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park’s difficulty. Carrying heavy luggage and walking for a few hours might not seem harsh for you, but trekking with it for 12 days will.
Traveling each day for a long duration with a heavy backpack will leave your body sore. They will be a hassle and are the main region to drain your stamina down.
Imagine walking up and down the rugged topography with a heavy backpack. So, if you plan to trek alone, make the bags as light as possible. But if you are traveling with an agency, don’t worry they will hire a porter for you.
Tips for Everest Gokyo Ri Trek
Regardless of the difficulties, there are a few tips you should know before starting Gokyo Ri Everest to make the trip enjoyable and simpler.
- Choose a favorable season with clear skies, pleasant weather, and stable temperature when planning to summit Gokyo Ri
- It is better to travel with either guide or a porter for navigation and safety.
- Do not carry unnecessary things and increase the weight of the luggage. It should be as light as possible without overpacking.
- Always choose an itinerary with more acclimatization days to prevent altitude sickness
- Carry a bottle with you and keep drinking water 3 to 4 liters of water during the entire trip
- Do not drink any kind of beverages with alcohol and do not smoke
- Perform physical exercises 2 to 3 weeks before the trek to build muscle flexibility and leg strength.
Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park Permit
The permit is compulsory if you are planning to trek in Nepal. There are different permits according to the region you choose for travel. Gokyo Ri lies inside the Everest region, so you need to carry the ones required in this area.
First, you need to hold the Sagarmatha national park entry permit to enter the area. This permit can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Monjo. The permit cost without including VAT:
For SAARC nations: 1500 NPR; $15, and for foreigners: 3000 NPR; $ 30.
Similarly, before October 2018, it was necessary to carry a TIMS card, but later the local government of the Khumbu region replaced it with a new permit. You now have to acquire a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.
This permit cannot be obtained from Kathmandu, you can only purchase it from either Lukla or Monjo. The permit costs 2000 NPR; $20 for both SAARC and foreigners.
Additionally, if you begin your journey from the Jiri route, then you also need to carry the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project Permit. It is available from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. The permit costs: USD 3000; $30 for foreigners.
Please remember that all permit fees are payable only in Nepalese currency.
Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park Cost
On average, the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek costs around USD 1500 to USD 2500 per person. But it can cost more or less depending on various factors like number of days, transportation, starting routes, season, and more.
The package cost covers your permit fees, accommodation, three-time meals during trek, guide, porter, transportation, and so on. However, you need to carry extra money for your personal expenses like bar bills, hot showers, snacks, and more.
The company only pays for what is included in the package, outside it is your self-payment.
However, the cost might decrease by USD 500 or USD 1000, if you are trekking independently. Many people travel without guides or porters, thus boycotting their payments.
Trekking Routes for Gokyo Ri Sagarmatha National Park
Gokyo Ri Trek
Gokyo Ri trek is a substitute choice for Everest Base Camp Trek. Travelers who aren’t able to reach the foothills of Everest or have already visited it come to climb the Gokyo Ri summit.
This marvelous peak is one of the best viewpoints for landscapes, mountains, and valleys in the Everest region. It is similar to Kala Patthar but lies at a lower elevation.
The beautiful Gokyo village, the gateway to Gokyo Ri, and Gokyo Lake lies at the foothills of this peak. The trails are slowly gaining popularity, so it is less crowded giving you more privacy.
The 12 days Gokyo Ri Trek begins with an impressive flight to Lukla, then you travel to Phakding from there to stay the night. The next day, you trek towards Namche Bazaar and acclimatize to the beautiful Sherpa town.
After, you head out of the town and continue towards Dole passing several bridges and forests. From Dole, you move ahead to Machhermo viewing outstanding scenarios.
The following day, you trek to Gokyo valley and hike to Gokyo Ri summit during the afternoon. Later, you return to the village for the night. The next morning, you visit the 4th Gokyo Lake and head back to Machhermo.
You then retrace your steps back to Lukla and catch the flight to Kathmandu from there.
Gokyo Ri with Everest Base Camp Trek
Gokyo Ri with Everest Base Camp Trek combines two famous destinations in one package. With this trip, you get to visit Gokyo Ri, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar.
It is a side trip, so the Gokyo Ri trails connect with the standard Everest Base Camp routes. The journey also lets you cross over Cho La Pass, one of the high passes of this region.
Gokyo Ri with Everest Base Camp is 14 days long trek that allows you to explore the remote areas of the Khumbu region. The trip starts after you arrive at Lukla as you make your way to Phakding from there.
Then, you head to Namche and hold acclimatization there. From the town, you follow the standard Gokyo Ri trails to Gokyo valley. Arriving at the valley, you hike to Gokyo Ri and head down to Thangnak.
From Thangnak, you cross over Cho La Pass and head to Dzongla then later to Lobuche. Moving ahead, you trek to Gorak Shep then hike to Everest Base Camp and return.
The next day you hike to Kala Patthar and descend to Pheriche. Then following the standard EBC trails, you reach Lukla to fly back to Kathmandu.
Jiri to Gokyo Ri
Many travelers are unaware of the fact that there is a route available from Jiri to Gokyo Ri. It is the oldest trekking route that leads to Phakding. There are no direct roads to Lukla, so before airways, people traveled through this route.
It has the longest trekking routes among the other alternatives. You pass several traditional villages of Gurung, Rai, Sherpa, and other communities along the way. It takes 19 days to complete the entire trek.
You first drive to Jiri from Kathmandu and stay the night there. The next day you head towards Shivalaya then to Bhandar. From there, your next destination is Sete, a beautiful Gurung village.
You then move ahead staying the night at Junbesi, Nunthala, Khari Khola, and Pujyan. From there, you now trek to Phakding and later to Namche for the acclimatization.
From Namche, you head towards Phortse Tenga and then to Machhermo and later to Gokyo valley. The next day, you hike up to Gokyo Ri and return to the village.
Then you retrace your steps back to Namche and head to Lukla. After arriving at Lukla, you catch your flight back to Kathmandu.
Final Words
Gokyo Ri is one of the finest viewpoints of the Everest region that offers you sight of many glorious mountains. We hope our article “Where is Sagarmatha National Park” was able to answer your questions.
