Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek is a moderately difficult trek. Although the trek does not require any technical climbing, the Everest Gokyo Ri trek difficulty is because of the day-long treks.

You will have to walk for at least 5 hours on a daily basis excluding the acclimatization days. So, yes the trek is, in fact, challenging especially for beginner trekkers.

The Everest Gokyo Ri Trek, when summed up, is an amazing experience and an accomplishable one. Even for beginner trekkers. But you may still not be sure about the difficulty of the trek.

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek is, however, perfect for you if you like to walk in the Everest region without the physical stress of reaching the Everest Base Camp. The trek is less difficult.

It is an alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp trek.

This trek takes you through the Everest Region and The Gokyo Ri which is the highest hill in the entire world.

The Gokyo Valley is famous for “the Gokyo lakes” which are a combination of big as well as enchanting glacial lakes. It is also another fascinating stop in the Gokyo valley trek.

The village is a Sherpa village full of rich cultures and warm welcoming people. They are bound to make your trek more delightful.

The Gokyo Ri stands at an altitude of 5360m. After the climb to Gokyo Ri, an unforgettable view of the picturesque mountains greets you.

Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu, Cholatse and Taboche are just some of many that you will get to see from the top.

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek is a high altitude trek. The trek follows off-beaten paths and deserted villages and passes through many forests.

The trekking path takes you through the famous Chola pass which is among the highest passes in the world. The scenic trek will also take you to the mountain town of Namche. There the hustle bustle of trekkers and locals makes you feel like you’ve entered a whole another place.

It is, in fact, a breathtaking experience. The glistening lakes, the distinctive landscapes, the welcoming people and the captivating mountains overwhelm you.

There are definitely some factors that contribute to Everest Gokyo Ri trek difficulty. Overcoming those should help you have a smoother trekking experience. Some factors that determine the Everest Gokyo Ri trek difficulty are as follows:

Duration of the Trek

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek itinerary differs according to the travel agency but the most common duration is about 15 days.

Each day you will be trekking for about 5 to 6-hours and cover an average distance of 10 km.

The trek may be a bit challenging if you haven’t trekked before due to the long trekking hours. You will have resting days and that is sure to be a big help to get rid of the exhaustion.

Longer trekking packages mean more rests and easier trips. You can win over the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty by opting for longer packages.

Shorter packages have longer walking duration and are quite strenuous.

Training Requirements for the Trek

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek is not an easy trek especially for beginners. This trek requires you to have a healthy body and be physically fit. You will be walking all-day-long, an average of 5 hours. So, you will need to undertake certain training.

You need to train to build your stamina. You can improve your stamina by focusing on cardio exercises.

Another type of training that you should focus on is strength training, especially for your legs. The Everest Gokyo Ri trek route follows several steep climbs. And, if your legs are not strong enough you may have a difficult time. So, make leg training a priority.

You should start your training for at least a month in advance. Even activities such as jogging, hiking, and swimming can be a part of your training. You do not need to hire a professional trainer. You can train yourself for this trek.

If you do not wish to hire a porter you will have to carry your own luggage. Be prepared for that as well.

Use weights while you train and increase them gradually. Training this way, you can later trek with your backpack without much difficulty.

Some days of the trek could be more difficult than the other. And having good mental preparation becomes a plus point. Mental preparation, therefore, should also be part of your training.

If you are mentally prepared and motivated along with your physical preparations the trek should be not much of a challenge.

Also, it is best if you prepare hiking in different terrain with slopes, rocks, and tricky trails too.

Total distance You Cover in the Trek

The total distance of the Everest Gokyo Ri trek is about 92 km ( approx 52 miles). The time that it takes for you to complete the trek, however, depends on you. It varies depending on your trekking experience.

Like all the other Everest Region treks, the trek starts at Lukla after a flight from Kathmandu.

In this trek, you will be following a less traveled path than the Everest Base Camp trek. So, the terrain could be equally challenging.

For some days the terrain might be quite easy and smooth too.

The terrain difficulty also varies according to the season you trek. In winter the path usually covers in ice and so the paths may become slippery hence prolonging your trek.

Plus, the Gokyo Ri is as high as the Everest Base Camp. So, climbing those steep hills adds into the Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty.

You need to have a strong willpower. The trek may take a toll on you even if you are an experienced trekker.

Altitude Sickness during the Trek

As with most high altitude treks, altitude sickness is a major concern for this trek too. The sudden change of altitude is difficult for anyone to get easily accustomed to.

The trip begins from Kathmandu at 1400 meters. While the trekking officially begins from Namche at 3000 meters.

From Lukla airport, trek proceeds to the destination, Everest Base Camp at 5364 meters.

Hence a sudden change of 3964m in only a couple of days is bound to take a toll on any human’s body.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a serious condition caused by the rising altitude and the thinning oxygen levels as the trek proceeds.

You may notice symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, and loss of appetite. And while it can be moderate for some, it can even be fatal for others.

Many trekkers have returned after a short distance due to the effects. While some even trekkers required airlifting due to severe conditions.

This can make your treks a lot difficult.

Therefore, you should make sure that you do not trigger altitude sickness.

You should avoid drinking alcohol and/or taking sleeping pills as much as possible. This way you can prevent aiding the altitude sickness.

Here are some steps that you can take to keep altitude sickness at bay.

Climb slowly

Try to travel no more than 1,000 feet each day, and plan a rest day for every 3,000 feet you go higher.

Keep your body hydrated

Staying hydrated is also important in preventing altitude sickness. Drink water regularly during your climb.

Eat plenty of carbs

When you’re at a higher altitude, you need more calories. So, pack plenty of healthy snacks, including lots of whole grains.

Medication

You may consult with your physician before your treks. Do not self-medicate as it may cause more harm than good.

If you suffer from symptoms of altitude sickness even after taking all of the above precautions then be sure to inform your guide immediately. S/He will help you prevent the risks of the sickness and help you feel better.

Different Seasons for Trekking

Choosing the right season for the trek is a decision that could determine the difficulty of your trek.

The best seasons to go trekking to any part of Nepal are the spring and the autumn. Winters and monsoons are among the most challenging months.

October-November (autumn) is an ideal time. As there is no rain and the temperature is moderate the trails bloom in different flowers.

This time of the year also minimizes any problems that could incur due to the cold temperature. It also provides divine views of the mountains throughout the trail.

Spring which starts from March and ends in April delivers astonishing views with crisp, clear skies and blooming forests.

The winter months; December, January, and February are the coldest months. Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty rockets this time of the year.

And the monsoon rains during June, July, and August become a hassle along with the leeches. This makes the trek quite a challenge.

But the Everest Gokyo Ri trek is possible in any season if you have the right preparations and are an adventure seeker.

Luggage

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek is an average of a 15-day trek. You will be traveling through remote paths. To escape the Everest Gokyo Ri trek difficulty you must pack wisely.

Here is a list of what you should bring to make your long trek easier.

Clothing

The clothing that you should carry may vary according to the season you are trekking.

We recommend you to carry items that can be easily layered so you can adjust to the changing weather. This will make your treks a lot less difficult.

• Thermal underwear
• Short sleeved/long sleeved trekking shirts
• Trekking socks
• Trekking pants
• Lightweight as well as heavy sweaters
• Rainproof pants and jackets
• Insulating jackets/fleece lined jacket
• A Pair of Trekking boots
• Pair of Gloves
• Pair of trekking sandals

Accessories

• Sunglasses
• Sun Hat
• Woolen cap/ beanies
• Sleeping bag
• Cameras
• Chargers
• Extra Batteries
• Power Bank
• Water Bottle

Toiletries

• Sunscreen
• Chapstick
• Band-aids
• Moisturizer
• Q-tips
• Nail cutters
• Shampoo and Soap
• Toilet Paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Sanitary pads/ Tampons

Medicines

• Medicines for altitude, Diarrhea, cold, nausea
• Anti-leech spray or ointment

Important Documents

• Passport
• Travel Permits
• Local cash (most places do not have ATMs)

You should make sure you carry all the necessities but do not over pack.

Final Say,

The Everest Gokyo Ri trek is one of the most captivating treks. The turquoise lakes and the breathtaking views are just a start.

The trek is a moderately difficult trek. It requires physical as well as mental preparation. It is a long trek of about 5 to 6-hours of walking each day. But, with the right gear and guide, you can tackle Everest Gokyo Ri Trek Difficulty.

If you have any queries about the trek or want to book it. You are always welcome to contact us.