How to Plan Your Gokyo Valley Trek – 11 Days in Kathmandu

If you’ve been dreaming of an incredible adventure in the Himalayas, the Gokyo Valley Trek is an experience not to be missed. This 11-day trek will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth, from cascading waterfalls to soaring mountain peaks. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Overview of the Trek

The Gokyo Valley Trek is a challenging high-altitude adventure that takes you to the three lakes of Gokyo in Nepal’s Himalayas. The trek starts and ends in Kathmandu, and takes you to Gokyo Ri for spectacular views of Cho Oyo, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, all above 8,000 meters. The trek is fully organized, including a guide, tea house accommodations, meals, and flights to and from Kathmandu, so you can focus on enjoying the trek.

Itinerary

Here’s a breakdown of the 11-day itinerary for the Gokyo Valley Trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparation for the trek.

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding.

Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar.

Day 5: Rest day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization.

Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga.

Day 7: Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machhermo.

Day 8: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo.

Day 9: Hike to Gokyo Ri for stunning views of the Himalayas.

Day 10: Trek from Gokyo to Dole.

Day 11: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar.

Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla.

Day 13: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.

What’s Included

The Gokyo Valley Trek includes the following:

– Airport pick up and drop-off by private car/van.
– Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
– 11-night guesthouse accommodation during the trek (mainly in twin sharing).
– Your travel insurance (compulsory).
– Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla and airport transfers.

What to Bring

Here’s a list of items to bring with you on the trek:

– Warm winter jacket
– Fleece jackets or pullover
– Thermal innerwear
– T-shirts
– Trekking pants
– Thermal bottoms
– Woolen gloves
– Waterproof gloves
– Woolen hat
– Sun hat
– Scarf
– Sunglasses
– Down jacket
– Trekking boots
– Lightweight shoes
– Socks
– Headlamp with extra batteries
– Waterproof bag cover
– Trekking poles
– Water bottles
– Snacks
– Personal medications

How to Book

To book your Gokyo Valley Trek, head to Viator’s website and follow the steps to make your reservation.

Conclusion

The Gokyo Valley Trek is an incredible adventure that rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks on earth. With a fully organized tour that includes everything from your guide to your accommodations, all you need to do is bring your sense of adventure and a willingness to push yourself to new heights. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer, the Gokyo Valley Trek is an experience you will never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kathmandu:

Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal. It is a popular tourist destination, famous for its temples, palaces, and culture. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Kathmandu.

1. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November and from February to April. The weather during these months is pleasant and there is little rain. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it a great time to explore the city.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has numerous tourist attractions, including:

Durbar Square:

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic center of Kathmandu. It is home to several temples, palaces, and courtyards.

Swayambhunath Stupa:

Also known as the Monkey Temple, this stupa is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. It offers stunning views of the city.

Pashupatinath Temple:

It is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on the bank of the Bagmati River and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Boudhanath Stupa:

It is the largest stupa in Nepal and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a sacred site for Buddhists and attracts many tourists.

3. What should I wear when visiting temples in Kathmandu?

When visiting temples in Kathmandu, it is recommended to dress modestly and conservatively. You should cover your shoulders and wear clothes that cover your knees. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple.

4. Is it safe to drink tap water in Kathmandu?

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Kathmandu. It is recommended to drink bottled water or water that has been filtered and boiled. It is also important to avoid ice in drinks and raw fruits and vegetables that may have been rinsed with tap water.

5. What is the currency used in Kathmandu?

The currency used in Kathmandu is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). It is recommended to exchange money at authorized currency exchange centers or banks rather than on the street.

6. What is the official language in Kathmandu?

The official language in Kathmandu is Nepali. However, many people in the tourism industry speak English as well.

7. What is the transportation system like in Kathmandu?

The transportation system in Kathmandu includes buses, taxis, and rickshaws. However, the traffic can be heavy and chaotic, especially during rush hour. It is recommended to hire a private car or use a reputable taxi service.

8. What is the food like in Kathmandu?

The food in Kathmandu is a blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup with rice and vegetables), and thukpa (noodle soup). It is recommended to try the local street food, but be cautious of the cleanliness and hygiene of the food preparation.

9. What is the altitude of Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is located at an altitude of 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level. It is important to take precautions for altitude sickness if you are not used to high altitudes. Take your time and acclimatize gradually to the altitude.

10. What are the visa requirements for visiting Kathmandu?

Visitors to Kathmandu require a tourist visa. It can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. It is recommended to check the latest visa regulations before traveling to Kathmandu.

Conclusion

Kathmandu is a fascinating city with a rich culture and history. It is a popular tourist destination and offers plenty of attractions for visitors. By following the tips in this blog post, you can have a safe and enjoyable visit to Kathmandu.