13-Day Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Marvel Treks airport representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel by private vehicle. After check-in, you are welcome to visit the office for a pre-trip meeting and a detailed briefing about the Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek.
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
Your adventure begins with a scenic 45-minute flight to Lukla, offering breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, meet your Sherpa trekking crew and begin the trek toward Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful Sherpa villages. Today's walk is short and gentle, ideal for acclimatization.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 7.8 km
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Leaving Phakding, the trail passes through charming villages such as Bengkar, Monjo, and Jorsale. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. A steady uphill climb brings you to Namche Bazaar, the commercial hub of the Khumbu region, with spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 10.4 km
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Today is dedicated to acclimatization. Explore Namche Bazaar and its facilities, including bakeries, cafes, museums, and shops. Optional hikes include the Everest View Hotel, Khumjung, or Khunde villages. Visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center to learn about Sherpa culture, Himalayan wildlife, and Everest history.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,110m)
The trail ascends gradually through rhododendron forests and alpine landscapes. After passing Mong La Pass, enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and sacred Mount Khumbila. Wildlife such as musk deer and Himalayan pheasants may be spotted along the way before reaching the peaceful village of Dole.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 10 km
Day 6: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)
Today's walk offers changing landscapes and increasing altitude. The trail passes seasonal settlements like Lhabarma and Luza, with excellent views of Cho Oyu, Kangtega, Thamserku, and the Ngozumpa Glacier. Machhermo lies beside a beautiful stream flowing from Kyajo Ri.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 10 km
Day 7: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)
Climb above Machhermo for stunning views of Cho Oyu before reaching the first Gokyo Lake. Continue past the second and third lakes - Taboche Tsho and Dudh Pokhari - before arriving at Gokyo Village, set beside shimmering turquoise lakes.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 7 km
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Gokyo (4,790m)
A full acclimatization day in Gokyo. An early morning hike to Gokyo Ri rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. Optional hikes to the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes offer serene alpine scenery.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Trek from Gokyo to Lumde (4,380m) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m)
One of the most thrilling days of the trek. Ascend gradually to Renjo La Pass, where sweeping views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu unfold. Descend through rugged terrain past alpine lakes before reaching the quiet settlement of Lumde.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 9 km
Day 10: Trek from Lumde to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) via Thame (3,820m)
Descend toward the Bhote Koshi River, passing through Marlung and Taranga before reaching Thame, a historic Sherpa village famous for its monastery and mountaineering heritage. Continue past Thamo, Phurte, and hydropower stations before arriving back in Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 15 km
Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840m)
The final trekking day descends through forests of pine and rhododendron, crossing suspension bridges and passing villages such as Monjo, Phakding, and Chheplung. Reach Lukla in the afternoon and celebrate the successful completion of your trek.
Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 15.7 km
Day 12: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Take a scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu. After transfer to your hotel, enjoy free time for shopping or sightseeing. In the evening, join a farewell dinner and share trekking memories with your team.
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast
Flight Duration: 40-50 minutes
Day 13: Final Departure
A Marvel Treks representative will assist you with your airport transfer for your onward journey. If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, additional arrangements can be made upon request.
Meals: Breakfast
