As Nepal’s spring trekking season begins, memories of past high-altitude journeys resurface for many adventurers. Among the most unforgettable experiences is the Gokyo Ri trekking route—an awe-inspiring journey through the Everest region.
Two years ago, a group of five friends, fresh from their final university exams, set out on a dream trip. They had previously trekked to Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Base Camp, and this time, they aimed higher: Gokyo Ri, standing at 5,357 meters above sea level.
The plan began after exams were over. The writer first returned to Biratnagar, then searched for flights to Lukla. But no direct flights from Biratnagar were available, forcing a layover in Kathmandu. This lack of regional air connectivity highlights a gap in Nepal’s tourism infrastructure—something that, if improved, could boost local travel and tourism.
Despite Lukla’s reputation as one of the world’s most dangerous airports, the landing was smooth. The group was welcomed by the view of Kongde Ri. Yet, there was an early setback: a sore knee from a recent hike to Thulo Pathibhara. Ignoring the pain, they began their journey with breakfast in Lukla and hiked to Phakding for lunch. That evening, they reached Monjoo for their first overnight stay.
The next day brought a steep climb to Namche Bazaar. Although tiring, the hillside town’s beauty lifted their spirits. Houses in Namche are arranged like terraces, and water-powered prayer wheels added charm to the scene. A family friend welcomed them at their hotel, offering warmth and encouragement.
The third day was for acclimatisation. A restful night prepared the group for a hike to the Everest View Hotel. From there, they saw Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse side by side. Ama Dablam stood elegantly, its name meaning “mother’s necklace.”
Returning through a new path, they explored Khumjung village. The descent caused sharp knee pain, but with help from friends and some rest, the journey continued. A highlight of the day was a visit to Sagarmatha Next, where they experienced a virtual reality tour of Mt Everest’s Balcony Camp.
On day four, they set off later than planned, joined by their family friend and his team. Along the trail, they learned the Everest View Hotel was opened by a Japanese visionary in 1971. After reaching Kyamjung, the teams separated, and the group continued on their own.
Day five involved a shorter trek to prevent altitude sickness. The landscape changed—rocky paths, fewer trees, and scattered yak sightings. Passing through Lapharma and Lazu, they reached Machermo early and relaxed with card games. That evening, the skies cleared, revealing Thamserku to the east and the surrounding hills.
The sixth day brought clear skies and the call of the Himalayan Snowcock. Back near the Dudh Koshi River in Phangma, the group continued toward its origin. Arriving at Gokyo Lake 1, they were stunned by its beauty. After many photos, they trekked past Gokyo Lake 2 and finally reached Gokyo Lake 3, their night’s destination. Gokyo Lakes are the world’s highest freshwater lake system.
At Gokyo Lake 3, travelers have several options: visit the fifth lake, cross the three high passes to Everest Base Camp, or climb Gokyo Ri. The group chose the Gokyo Ri ascent for views of Mt Cho Oyu and unique perspectives of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
They originally planned to climb at sunset, hoping for golden hues over Everest. But heavy clouds forced them to delay. The next morning, they began at 4 a.m., guided by headlamps. They soon caught up with a group led by a Nepali guide.
Reaching the top of Gokyo Ri was emotional. The effort of the past week paid off with sweeping views. Though Everest was partly visible, the true star was Mt Cho Oyu—broad and shimmering, often called the “Turquoise Goddess.”
The following day, two trekkers took a helicopter back to Lukla. The aerial view of the snow-covered hills, Ngozumpa Glacier, and Everest Base Camp II was magical. Ngozumpa is the longest glacier in the Himalayas, and flying over it was a powerful reminder of nature’s scale.
Upon landing in Lukla, poor weather delayed their return flight. Such delays are common in this area, especially during seasonal changes. Eventually, they reached Kathmandu safely.
This Gokyo Ri trekking journey gave the group not just adventure, but lifelong memories. From spotting Danphe birds and hearing the Snowcock’s call to climbing a 5,000-meter peak, the experience combined physical challenge with stunning natural rewards. The trek was not just a trip, but a passage into the heart of Nepal’s majestic Himalayas.
