Gokyo Valley Trek
4.7
My name is Beattie, I'm 21, an Australian studying in the US and I just completed a 10 day trek to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri. I could not stress more how much I enjoyed this trek and how you will definitely not regret a single thing when you book to trek in the everest region! I usually do not write reviews but this trip was so breathtaking that I just had to champion my guide, Dhana, and the agency he works for.
Firstly, I originally booked with a friend. However, she bailed a month from my departure date. I was originally hesitant to go alone but this should definitely not deter you from trekking in the area if this is a fear of yours. Trekking alone has its own spiritual power you cannot get when you trek in a big group. You can walk at your own pace and take breaks whenever you want! Also, you meet so so many amazing people while travelling solo so you're never really alone.
Secondly, my guide DHANA was the most amazing companion to have during the trip. He went above and beyond to make my hike enjoyable and smooth. He was such a sweet man who was great company. His English is close to impeccable and is a great card player! He beat me several times at a card game I taught him on the trek. Moreover, he is very flexible and can adjust your trip to your needs. He genuinely cares about you and wants you to have the best trip possible.
Thirdly, this local tour company based in Kathmandu is great. Chhatra, who I originally emailed after booking, met me when I first arrived in Kathmandu and was very warm and welcoming. He is clearly very experienced at what he does and understands the whole system very well - he will be truthful with you and is someone whose word you can trust. Moreover, this company provided me with numerous benefits I had no idea I was actually going to receive. Every night, my oxygen level and heart rate was checked, I received fruit after every dinner and got a free hat and cap upon arriving in Kathmandu. Definitely an awesome trustworthy company to book with.
Finally, the trek itself was amazing and a trip I'll never forget. I trekked in mid December which actually was such a perfect time. The trails weren't too crowded but still enough people were trekking in order to make friends. The lake was frozen over which was still as stunning as ever regardless. Summiting Gokyo Ri was by far my favorite part of the trip. We trekked it around 2:30pm and arrived at the summit just before sunset which was absolutely incredible. My phone died at the summit because it was so cold but luckily I had a film camera (I would highly recommend bringing a film camera or even a disposable as the cold can kill batteries pretty fast - portable charger is another great idea). In terms of altitude sickness, I was very lucky to not feel the altitude too much. Diamox can be taken if needed but I think if you're young and fit the chances are you don't need to take it.
Some final trips would be: bring chapstick, bring a portable charger, bring a film camera, pack lightly and bring proper hiking socks. Be prepared for potential delays going to and from Lukla as well.
I could not recommend this operator more. I would highly suggest requesting Dhana as your guide as he is not only very knowledgeable about hiking in the Himalayas but is also such a great human as well! I will definitely be back to Nepal.
Beattie Goad
