Gokyo Lake Trek - 14 Days

Permits required for Gokyo Lake Trek

To embark Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal here are some basic permits you should consider acquiring ahead of the journey. Sagarmatha National Park permits and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permits are necessary to trek legally in Gykyo Valley.

First of all, you will need a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit for the Everest region for anybody traveling there. This permit can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board office, in Kathmandu, or at the checkpoint of the park. We will assist you in obtaining these permits for the Gokyo Lake Trek. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit costs NPR 3,000 (Approx. USD 25) per trekker and NPR 1500 for South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nationals.

There is also the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit for entry into the Khumbu Valley and it costs NPR 3,000 (Approximately. USD 25) Per trekker. It is obtainable from the Nepal Tourism Board or from the Monjo checkpoint.

These two permits for Gokyo Lake Trek are important not only for legal reasons of accessing the area but for the economy and support of conservation as well. It is mandatory for trekkers to carry both permits on the trek since there will be checking many times on the trail. Once these permits are checked by the authority then you will be ready for an amazing trip to the Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri Trek.

How to Train for Gokyo Lake Trek

Preparation is extremely important for this trek to reduce the consequences of high altitude and further strengthen your body for physical challenges. This one involves a lot of uphill, long hours on the trek, and reaching as high as over 5,000 meters above sea level. Also, the body has to be well energetic enough for this.

As a foundation implement cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to create base. As with other workouts, try to have at least 3 to 4 times a week progressively increasing the pace or extending your training time. The second type of exercise is strength training as the emphasis is placed on weightlifting, both for your legs and your midsection. Lunge squats and step exercises should be incorporated in preparation for the tough and irregular tracks. For that reason, a strong midsection will assist you in holding the stability attained during a steep incline.

Alpine hike is one of the most effective forms of cross-country practice of the ultimate trek. Preferably, try to engage in long backpackers with a fully loaded backpack that is similar to what you will use on the trek. This will reduce weaknesses that one may have while doing the exercise and make you familiar with how it feels to carry a load when navigating on rough surfaces. If possible it is trekkers need to trek at higher altitudes. So, that thin air in the area of Gokyo Lake Trek can be easily climbed. If altitude training is impossible, then exercising under an altitude mask will help your body prepare for that. Finally, the psychological preparation for such type of conflict is crucial. Some of the activities will help to build up endurance as well as mental stamina in terms of long hours during the trekking activities.

Acclimatization During the Gokyo Lake Trek

Acclimatization is very important in the Gokyo Lake Trek. In order to help the body get used to the high altitude and not have to suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness. You feel weak and you get breathless because with height, oxygen is limited and your body will not receive enough of it. The highest point of the day is Gokyo Ri which is above 5,357m where the chance of developing acute mountain sickness will begin. Climbing should ideally be done interval-wise so that the body gets enough time to adapt to such a move. Due to this, the Gokyo Lake Trek has been crafted with acclimatization days at important places such as Namche Bazaar. Such embraces aid the body in acclimatization in the higher terrain to advance further more easily.

These are days of rest, though short, energetic climbs are recommended to acclimatize the body in regards to lack of oxygen at great heights. Regularity and sufficient consumption of fluid are crucial during the process of the body’s adaptation to the conditions.

You should avoid dehydration because it actually can make mountain sickness worse to get it just drink lots of water and eat healthy foods high in energy. If you experience any one of these early signs of AMS including headaches, dizziness or nausea then be very cautious and inform your guide. If any of these symptoms emerge, one needs to descend further and take a break. It’s vital to be attentive to your body. For instance, feeling feverish should not force you to go to climb higher. With these practices in acclimatization, you’ll lower the risks of being affected by the altitude on the trek and get to appreciate the beauty of Gokyo Lake.

Gokyo Lake Trek Travel Insurance

Before going for the Gokyo Lake Trek, it is advisable to obtain good health, property, and travel insurance to cover your health and holiday. Due to the geographical location of the trekking area and the high altitude, it becomes appropriate to discuss possible medical emergencies and accidents. Insurance should include medical evacuation, although, in the event of having to take a helicopter because of altitude sickness, an illness, or an injury, one is likely to part with a lot of money.

Make sure that the policy offers the coverage of the existing medical conditions. Check that it will insist on extending the coverage for trekking up the high altitudes as some of the policies will not count for any trekking over a set altitude. Extend travel coverage options that should be incorporated also include provisions for trip interruptions. Delays or cancellations as induced by aspects like bad weather and natural disasters. However, it is always wise to confirm with your insurance company the treks you are about to embark on are listed because some insurance providers only allow trekking in certain areas. There’s no better way to trek than knowing you are insured in the event of any eventuality during Gokyo Lake trekking.

Accommodation in Gokyo Lake Trek

The accommodation on Gokyo Lake Trek is at cozy comfortable teahouses. Which provides basic comfortable trekking lodges on the trails and 3-star standard hotel stays in Kathmandu. These teahouses have decent interiors with rooms that normally accommodate two people on two single beds, a blanket, and a window.

Basically, as much as the facilities that are provided might not be so elaborate, hiking enthusiasts would be able to have their fair share of the real experience of the locale Himalayan lifestyle. The lobbies are warmed by firewood, but a good sleeping bag on the beds will be useful in winter. At places like Phakding,Namche Bazaar, and other lower altitudes, the teahouses are somewhat slightly more comfortable, especially where there are hot showers and sometimes WiFi.

The service standard of the lodges starts getting simple as and when you go up the altitude like Dole, Machhermo, & Gokyo. Prepare for less convenience with the change of showers and limited electricity. Despite the basic interior of the rooms, comfort seems to be delivered by the welcoming embracing of the locals and the stunning view.

Meals During the Gokyo Valley Lake Trek

Foods throughout the Gokyo Valley Lake Trek involve cuisines from both Nepali and other international meals in consideration of several trekkers' preferences. There is quite a good number of food choices at Phakding and Namche Bazaar, where you can get simple meals including Dal Bhat which is composed of lentil soup accompanied by rice up to pizzas, pastas, and fried noodles.

Many teahouses provide all kinds of food that are sufficient to make one fit for the day’s work. Then there are fewer options, less even, the options being rice, lentils, vegetables, soup, and momos. High-altitude food is energy-giving food. Bearing in mind that this trek is so remote it can be difficult to get frequent restocking of ingredients. Often they are served with dried or preserved food yet nutritious.

The food portioned is usually satisfying and healthy providing the energy needed to carry on with the day. Tea and coffee are very common and many of the teahouses prepare simple food like chocolate bars, biscuits, and fruits for the mid-trek snack. Hydration is crucial hence one should have a water flask and make sure that you are taking a lot of water more especially when you find yourself at higher altitudes. At the same time, the food is normal, but the views when having a meal and the generally warm and welcoming teahouse vibes are part of the Gokyo Lakes experience.

Wi-Fi and Mobile Connectivity in Gokyo Lake Trek

While on the Gokyo Lake Trek, the trekkers may have to encounter some problems with connection due to the fact that the area is quite remote. It also depends on the region since practically there were stronger signals nearer to the big towns like Namche Bazaar and Gokyo. As you go up, the network connectivity is not very strong. In fact, it becomes quite weak when you get up to the higher regions. For instance, Wi-Fi can be found in some of the teahouses though the connection rate is usually slow and pricey. Most of the time, if one needs to stay connected, it is advisable to get a local SIM card while in Kathmandu. However, expect intermittent interruptions. In case of emergency, satellite phones will be arranged in some selected teahouses and lodges on the trek route.

Drinking Water in Gokyo Lake Trek

Particularly safe drinking water remains essential during the Gokyo Lake Trek. Although drinking water can be found in natural water stations. It should be treated with iodine tablets or boiled in a purifying filter. Many teahouses along the trail provide treated or boiled water for a price that is the most convenient for most trekkers. Trekkers should also ensure they are carrying a reusable water bottle. So, there are usual possibilities for water replenishment frequently on the trek. One should therefore ensure they take a lot of water especially as they get further up the altitude because this air is very dehydrating.

Gokyo Lake Trek Packing List, Essentials, and Gears

One of the most important steps in the preparation for the Gokyo Lake Trek is packing. Remember that you need to pace all the essential tools, clothing, gears and make it lightweight. So, you can follow this comprehensive Gokyo Lake Trek Packing List specially prepared by our guide.

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking shirts and pants
• Fleece jacket or insulated jacket
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Trekking Pants (Lightweight and quick drying)
• Thermal Pants
• T-shirts
• Down Jacket
• Gloves (waterproof)
• Sun hat (for day trekking) and warm hat (for cold nights)
• Neck Gaiter/Buff
• Socks (4-5 pairs)
• Underwear
• Trekking boots (Waterproof and with good ankle support)
• Camp Shoes

Trekking Gear

• Backpack: 35 to 45 liters for daily use
• Duffel Bag For porters (approximately 50 liters)
• Sleeping Bag (Rated for -10°C or colder)
• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottles (2 liters capacity)
• Water purification tablets
• Headlamp (extra batteries)
• Sunglasses (UV protection, with a high altitude tint)
• Sunblock (SPF 50+ for face and lips)
• Hand Sanitizer
• Toiletries like Toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, biodegradable soap
• Towel (Quick-drying)

Health and Safety

• First Aid Kit (Including personal medications, painkillers, bandages, blister care, and anti-diarrhea tablets)
• Altitude Medication (Diamox) (for preventing AMS)
• Hand Warmers
• Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
• Face Mask

Others

• Camera and Extra Batteries
• Power Bank
• Snacks like Energy bars, nuts, and chocolate
• Plastic Bags (For keeping wet or dirty items separate)
• Plastic Poncho
• Essential Documents
• Passport (with copies)
• Nepal Visa
• Trekking Permits (Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit) – Touch Planet Treks will assist with permits
• Travel Insurance (covering high-altitude trekking)

Remember to travel to the area lightly, yet carry all the necessary things that can enable one to handle the high-altitude trek. Touch Planet Treks will arrange everything for you from permits, accommodations, and meals, so all you need is to see the sights!

Conclusion of Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lake Trek with Touch Planet Treks is a perfect combination to explore the natural beauty, Himalayan lifestyle, and adventure. Crossing some very beautiful and silent trekking paths reach the glorious turquoise Gokyo Lake. Which is in the lap of great Himalayans like Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, etc. Trek up Gokyo Ri for the sunrise view and acclimatize with the Himalayan paradise that is Gokyo Ri away from the crowded tourist trail. Safe, fulfilling, and extraordinary Touch Planet Treks guarantees that your trek will be the best with professional support and individual approach. Welcome to the Gokyo Valley trek with us!