The Gokyo Ri Trek typically ranges in cost from USD 1400 to USD 2500 per person. This price encompasses various elements such as permits, travel arrangements, accommodation, guides, porters, and additional expenses.

The price, however, can vary depending on the time of year you choose to travel and the specific activities you plan to engage in during your Everest Gokyo Lake trek.

The Gokyo Ri trip is renowned for the awe-inspiring beauty of the secluded Gokyo valley. This picturesque valley captivates with its mesmerizing aquamarine glacial lakes, offering a truly enchanting experience. Moreover, the trek provides breathtaking panoramic views of majestic mountains, including Mount Everest, Mount Makalu, Mount Lhotse, and Mount Nuptse, adding to the allure of the journey.

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About Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo Lakes are oligotrophic lakes situated in Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park, positioned at an elevation of 4,700–5,000 m (15,400–16,400 ft) above sea level. These lakes, along with the accompanying resort, derive their name from the nearby Gokyo Ri peak. Remarkably, they form the world’s highest freshwater lake system, consisting of six main lakes, with Thonak Lake being the largest among them [2]. In recognition of their ecological significance, Gokyo and the associated wetlands spanning an area of 7,770 hectares (30.0 square miles) were designated as a Ramsar site in September 2007.

Lake system

The Gokyo Lakes are situated in the Khumjung Village Development Committee of Solukhumbu District in Sagarmatha Zone, northeastern Nepal. The main lake, Gokyo Cho or Dudh Pokhari, covers an area of 42.9 hectares (106 acres), with the village of Gokyo located on its eastern shore. The largest lake is Thonak Cho, spanning 65.07 hectares (160.8 acres). Other lakes in the system include Gyazumpa Cho (29 hectares), Tanjung Cho (16.95 hectares), and Ngojumba Cho (14.39 hectares). These lakes are vital sources of permanent freshwater, fed by various sources such as seepage from the Ngozumpa glacier, streams from the Renjo La pass, and other glacier streams.

They discharge water to the Dudh Kosi headway through Taujon Lake and Longabanga Lake. The Gokyo Lake system, consisting of 19 lakes, covers an area of 196.2 hectares (485 acres) and ranges in elevation between 4,600 and 5,100 meters (15,100 and 16,700 feet). It is located in an ecologically fragile and unstable zone, making it naturally vulnerable. The outburst of the Ngozumpa glacier poses a constant threat to the existence of these lakes.

How Much Does the Gokyo Ri Trek Cost?

The cost of Gokyo Ri Trekking can be influenced by various factors, including:

Distance traveled: The starting point and duration of the trek can impact the overall cost.
Trekking season: The time of year you choose to undertake the trek can affect pricing due to factors like weather conditions and demand.
Group size: The number of hikers in your group can impact the cost, as larger groups may require additional resources and services.
Transportation and lodging: The choice of transportation modes and accommodation options can vary in price, affecting the overall cost.
Meals and beverages: The type of meals and beverages provided during the trek can influence the cost, depending on their quality and variety.
Additional services: If you opt for supplementary services such as equipment rental, guide services, or special arrangements, these can contribute to the total cost.

These factors, among others, can contribute to variations in the cost of the Gokyo Ri Trekking experience.

Accommodation Cost

The Gokyo Ri trek package typically includes the cost of accommodation during your trip. Depending on the package you choose, you can expect to stay in either luxury five-star accommodations or standard three-star accommodations.

For those trekking independently, the cost of lodging can vary. At lower altitudes, you can find decent and traditional lodging options. However, as you ascend further and reach the Gokyo Valley, the availability of lodging becomes more limited.

Teahouse trekking is the most common method used for accommodation along the isolated trail of this trek. Along the route, there are numerous tea houses where trekkers can stay.

The majority of tea houses charge a reasonable rate of around USD 4 to 5 (NPR 400 to 500) per night per bed. During the off-season, rooms may be available at a more affordable price.

Transportation Cost for Gokyo Lake Trek: Flight and Road

The transportation cost constitutes a significant portion of the budget for the Gokyo Lake Trek. There are two main options to start your trek: flying from Kathmandu to Lukla or taking road transportation to Jiri.

Flying to Lukla is a popular choice as it saves time, taking approximately 30 minutes from Kathmandu. During the flight, you can enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the mountains. The cost of a one-way flight to Lukla is around USD 150 per person.

Alternatively, you can opt for road transportation. This can be done by either taking a local bus or hiring a jeep. Local buses are the cheaper option, costing around USD 10 to 12 per person for a one-way trip. However, they may not provide the same level of comfort and cleanliness. If you are traveling in a group of 4 to 7 people, it is advisable to hire a jeep. The journey from Kathmandu to the starting point takes approximately 6 to 8 hours by road.

For those seeking a more extravagant option, an Everest helicopter ride is available but comes at a significantly higher cost.

Flight:

If you choose to travel by flight, it offers the advantage of saving considerable time. The journey from Kathmandu to Lukla takes approximately 30 minutes, providing breathtaking views of the magnificent mountains from above. The estimated cost for a one-way flight for the Gokyo Ri Trek is around USD 150 (NPR 15,000) per person.

Road:

For those seeking an alternative to flying, road travel is another viable option, especially for larger groups. Both local buses and hired jeeps are available for transportation. Local bus fares range from approximately USD 10 to USD 12 (or NPR 1,000 to 1,200) for a one-way trip. The road journey from Kathmandu to Lukla typically takes around 6 to 9 hours. It is worth noting that a helicopter ride is also an option, although it is a more expensive choice. Ultimately, you have the freedom to select the mode of transportation that best suits your preferences and needs.

Cost of Food and Drinks during the Gokyo Lake Trek

In Kathmandu, you can expect to spend around USD 3 to 6 for a meal in a standard restaurant. The city offers a wide range of restaurant options to choose from.

However, as you ascend into the Everest region, the cost of food increases, and the available choices become more limited.

The most popular and widely available menu during the trek is the local Nepali Dal-Bhat set, which is a healthy choice. Additionally, you can find other Nepali dishes such as Momo, Fried Rice, Chowmin, Otas, Bread, and more.

The cost of a single meal along the trail ranges from approximately USD 5 to 8.

For beverages, tea, coffee, and soft drinks are readily available.

It is advisable to pack some light snacks like chocolate bars, nuts, energy bars, etc., to have as additional sustenance during the trek.

Cost of Guide and Porter for the Gokyo Ri Trek

Hiring a guide or porter is highly recommended when embarking on the Gokyo Ri trek. A guide can assist you in navigating the area and provide valuable insights while ensuring your safety on challenging and demanding terrain.

Having a porter can significantly enhance your trekking experience by lightening your load and allowing you to fully enjoy the journey.

The typical daily charge for a guide ranges from $20 to $25 (2000 to 2500 NPR). For a porter, the daily rate is usually between $15 and $20 (1500 to 2000 NPR).

Alternatively, you may choose to hire a guide-porter, who fulfills the roles of both a guide and a porter. A guide-porter usually charges around $20 to $23 (2000 to 2300 NPR) per day.

It is important to hire a certified guide and verify their qualifications beforehand to ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.

Permit Cost for the Gokyo Ri Trek

To complete the Gokyo Ri trek, you will need to obtain two permits from the national parks and regional government authorities.

Local Area Permit: Each individual is required to obtain a Local Area Permit, which costs approximately USD 20 (NPR 2,000).
Entry Permit for Sagarmatha National Park: The entry permit for Sagarmatha National Park is necessary for the trek and costs around USD 30 (NPR 3,000) with VAT.

You can obtain the Local Area Permit at the Sagarmatha National Park’s Monjo entrance. For the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, you can visit either the Monjo or Kathmandu Tourism Board offices.

It is important to ensure that you have these permits in order to comply with the trekking regulations and enjoy the Gokyo Ri trek.

Travel Insurance Cost for the Gokyo Ri Trek

While travel insurance is not typically included in your travel package, it is compulsory and highly recommended for the Gokyo Ri trek.

Given the potential risks associated with trekking at higher elevations, it is advisable to have travel insurance that specifically covers activities up to an elevation of 6,000 meters. The insurance should not only provide coverage for medical emergencies but also include provisions for helicopter evacuation if needed.

The cost of travel insurance for the Gokyo Ri trek is approximately USD 120 per person, although the exact price may vary depending on the specific policy and duration of coverage.

It is crucial to obtain adequate travel insurance to ensure your safety and peace of mind during the trek.

Equipment Cost for the Gokyo Ri Trek

To successfully complete the Gokyo Lake Trek, you will need appropriate trekking equipment. While some items like clothing and hiking boots can be brought from your home country, there are additional items you will need specifically for trekking.

In Nepal, there are reputable rental businesses that offer high-quality trekking equipment. Some of the items available for rent include trekking poles, crampons, weatherproof jackets, tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags. The rental prices typically range from USD 1 to $10 (NPR 100 to 1000) per day, depending on the specific equipment and the quality of the gear you choose.

These rental services provide a convenient and cost-effective option for acquiring the necessary equipment for the Gokyo Ri Trek, especially for travelers who prefer not to carry bulky gear with them.

Equipment list for peak climbing in Nepal — Equipment list

Miscellaneous Costs for the Gokyo Ri Trek

During the Everest Gokyo Trek, there are some additional miscellaneous costs that you may consider:

Buying Unique Souvenirs: If you wish to purchase souvenirs for your loved ones, there are various shops and markets along the trekking route where you can find local handicrafts, clothing, and other unique items to take back home. The cost of souvenirs will vary depending on the item and your bargaining skills.
Tipping: It is customary to provide tips to your guide, porter, and accommodation staff as a gesture of appreciation for their services. The amount is at your discretion and depends on your satisfaction with their assistance throughout the trek.
Hot Water Shower: There may be facilities available for hot water showers along the trekking route, and the cost is usually around USD 5 per shower. Keep in mind that availability and pricing may vary depending on the specific location and season.
Charging Ports: As you trek, you may need to charge your electronic devices such as cameras, phones, or other gadgets. Some teahouses and lodges offer charging services, typically at a cost ranging from USD 2 to USD 5 per device.

These miscellaneous costs are optional and may vary depending on your preferences and needs during the trek. It’s advisable to budget accordingly and keep some extra cash for these expenses.

Brief Itinerary

Day	Highlights	Altitude
Day 01	Arrival to Kathmandu	1,350m. (Kathmandu)
Day 02	Namche Bazaar, Acclimatization Day	2,840m/ 9,315 ft (Lukla) 2,610/ 8,560 ft. (Phakding)
Day 03	Phakding to Namche Bazzar	3,410 m/ 11,184 ft (Namche Bazzar)
Day 04	Phakding to Namche Bazaar	3,720 m/ 12,201 ft. (Syangboche )
Day 05	Namche Bazzar to Dole	4,038m/ 13,244 ft. (Dole)
Day 06	Dole to Machherma	4,470m/ 14,661ft. (Machherma)
Day 07	Machhermo to Gokyo	4,779m/ 15,711ft (Gokyo)
Day 08	Gokyo to Gokyo Ri to Gokyo	5,357 m/ 17,570 ft. (Gokyo Ri) 4,779m/ 15,711ft (Gokyo)
Day 09	Gokyo to Phorste Thanga	3,680m/ 12,070ft (Phorste Thanga)
Day 10	Phorste Thanga to Namche Bazzar	3,440 m/ 11,284ft (Namche Bazzar)
Day 11	Namche to Lukla	2,840 m/9,315 ft (Lukla)
Day 12	Lukla to Kathmandu	1,350 m/ 4,428 ft (Kathmandu)
Day 13	Departure

In Conclusion

The Gokyo Ri trek offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. However, it’s important to note that exploring this majestic region can be a significant investment.

If you’re interested in booking the Gokyo Ri Trek, we are here to assist you. Our aim is to provide you with the best possible facilities at a competitive price. We understand the value of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and strive to make it accessible to all adventurers.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us to inquire about the trek and discuss your preferences and budget. We’ll work with you to create a memorable and cost-effective Gokyo Ri trek experience.