Gokyo Peak - Day 1
Start: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), Goal: Dhole (4,100 m)
Distance: 10 km, Duration: 7 hours
The trail leading from Namche Bazaar to Gokyo is just two meters wide and embedded in a mountainside that verges on the vertical. This masterpiece was constructed by many diligent Nepalese and leads through low-lying vegetation. Along the way, the white peaks of Ama Dablam and Thamserku may even be visible, depending on the weather conditions. Cloud forests with four-meter-high rhododendrons and braided tree canopies line the way further ahead. Mondara Pass is a good stop to take a break and eat lunch. Half an hour later and 300 meters lower, you will reach Phortse Tanga before heading the short distance downhill to Dhole.
Gokyo Peak - Day 2
Start: Dhole (4,100 m), Goal: Machhermo (4,430 m)
Distance: 5 km, Duration: 3 hours
Soon after Dhole, you will have passed the treeline and find yourself on another path cut into the valley’s side. Two hours on, you will have reached Louza, where a small plateau fans out ahead. Machermo marks the next stop on the tour, about a half hour’s trek down the road. The small valley offers a welcome windbreak and a medical clinic for those seeking care
Gokyo Peak - Day 3
Start: Machhermo (4,430 m), Goal: Gokyo (4,750 m)
Distance: 7 km, Duration: 4 hours
The 3.5 hours to Gokyo begin here. The landscape gradually becomes more level until you arrive at a sort of highland plateau. From here, two lakes pass until Gokyo’s houses finally appear at the third. Keep in mind that the thin air and lack of sunshine will result in considerably slower movement and a challenge to keep warm.
Gokyo Peak - Day 4
Start: Gokyo (4,750 m), Goal: Gokyo Ri (5,360 m)
Distance: 2 km, Duration: 3 hours
Those looking to climb to the outlook point nearby are well-advised to get an early start. The trail follows the mountainside on a slight incline and over low, scraggy grass. After some three hours of walking in what feels like slow-motion, you will arrive at the peak, laced with prayer flags. At this point, you should see a number of 8,000 meter peaks: Cho Oyu with its glacier, Mount Everest, Lhotse and Makalu along with many other six- and seven-thousand-meter peaks. Take your time to take in and enjoy the view over these imposing summits.
