An alternative, or even better, an addition, to
the Mt. Everest Base Camp trek is trek up to the Gokyo valley.
Gokyo is located in the valley immediately west of the Everest.
The Gokyo Valley is only has one traditional permanent
settlement.
The trek starts after 35 minutes fly from Kathmandu to Lukla.
The trail passes through the numerous settlements of different
ethnic groups. Add to this sweeping glaciers, glacial lakes,
rhododendron forests, native flora and fauna, magnificent
mountains, forest, animal, birds, and monasteries all go to make
this region a spectacular destination.
For acclimatization reason we spend two nights in Namche Bazar.
Easier options for passing the acclimatization day can be found
visiting around the monastery or side villages. From Kenjoma the
Gokyo trail climbs up the hillside to a pass at Mong La heads to
Dole, Machherma and finally arrives to Gokyo. Along the way the
rocky bulk of Kyajo Ri, an unclimbed and impressive peak,
dominates the head of the valley. The trail passes Ngozumpa and
other two lakes. The massive form of Cho Oyu, at 8153 m,
dominates the Gokyo Valley at its head. The eight highest peak
in the world. The most common destination is Gokyo-Ri, which
provides an even better panorama then the one seen from more
famous Kala Pattar (Everest Base Camp).
The return to the Lukla basically follows the upward route. On
day 12 air plane will take you out of Lukla. |
