Have Questions? Talk to Expert (Binod)
The Gokyo Circuit Trek via Thonak La Pass and Sumna Phu Pass is one of the most adventurous, remote and rewarding trekking journeys in the Everest region of Nepal. This challenging Himalayan adventure combines the beautiful Gokyo Valley, traditional Sherpa villages, high mountain passes, glacial lakes, remote valleys and spectacular views of some of the world's highest mountains.
Organized by Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks, this trek is designed for experienced trekkers and adventure seekers who want to explore beyond the regular Everest Base Camp trail. The journey passes through Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Thame, Lungden, Arya, Sumna Phu, Sumna Phu Pass, Gokyo Valley and the high-altitude Thonak La Pass, with opportunities to explore the Third Gokyo Lake, Fourth Gokyo Lake and Fifth Gokyo Lake.
The trek provides an extraordinary combination of natural beauty and cultural exploration. You will walk through pine and rhododendron forests, cross mountain trails, visit ancient monasteries, encounter Sherpa settlements and gradually enter the spectacular high-altitude landscape of the Everest region.
The highlight is crossing the challenging Thonak La Pass at approximately 5,414 meters, depending on the exact route and seasonal trail conditions. The remote Sumna Phu Pass section adds another adventurous dimension to the itinerary. Because these high passes are affected by snow, ice and changing mountain weather, the trek requires careful planning, a suitable itinerary, experienced guides and proper acclimatization.
The Gokyo Circuit is ideal for trekkers who want a quieter and more adventurous alternative to the standard Everest Base Camp route. Instead of following only the busy main trail, this itinerary explores the northern and western parts of the Everest region.
Major attractions include:
This trek is not simply a walk to a destination. It is a complete Himalayan circuit that combines adventure, wilderness, culture and high-altitude exploration.
A typical Gokyo Circuit Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a gradual trek through Phakding and Namche Bazaar. After acclimatizing at Namche, the route moves toward Thame, one of the important Sherpa settlements in the Everest region.
From Thame, the trail continues toward Lungden and the remote northern valleys, eventually reaching the less-traveled sections around Arya and Sumna Phu. The journey then crosses the demanding Sumna Phu Pass before connecting with the Gokyo region.
Once in Gokyo, trekkers have time to explore the spectacular chain of glacial lakes. The Third Lake, commonly associated with Gokyo Lake, is the main settlement lake, while the Fourth and Fifth Lakes offer increasingly remote and dramatic mountain scenery.
The route then reaches the high and challenging Thonak La Pass, approximately 5,414 meters above sea level. After crossing the pass, the trail continues through high Himalayan terrain before descending toward safer and lower elevations.
The exact itinerary can be customized according to weather, snow conditions, group experience and local trail conditions.
Lukla is the traditional starting point for many Everest-region trekking adventures. Located at approximately 2,860 meters, Lukla is a small mountain town surrounded by green hills and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is itself an exciting part of the journey. The short mountain flight provides beautiful views of Nepal's hills and Himalayan ranges.
After landing at Lukla, trekkers normally meet their trekking crew, organize their bags and begin walking toward Phakding.
Lukla has hotels, restaurants, trekking shops, bakeries, pharmacies, banks and other facilities. It is also an important transportation hub for the Khumbu region.
Phakding, situated at around 2,610 meters, is usually the first overnight destination after Lukla.
The trail from Lukla to Phakding is relatively gentle and passes through small settlements, forests and suspension bridges. You will walk beside the Dudh Koshi River and gradually become familiar with the mountain environment.
Phakding is an excellent place to begin acclimatizing. The village contains comfortable teahouses and lodges where trekkers can enjoy traditional meals and rest after the first day.
The trail from Phakding continues toward Namche Bazaar, one of the most famous villages in the Everest region.
Namche is located at approximately 3,440 meters and is often considered the commercial and cultural center of the Khumbu region. The horseshoe-shaped settlement is surrounded by impressive mountains and traditional Sherpa communities.
Namche is also one of the most important acclimatization points on the trek. A rest and acclimatization day allows your body to adjust to increasing altitude.
During your stay, you can explore local markets, monasteries, bakeries, museums and viewpoints. A short hike toward the Everest View Hotel or surrounding hills provides excellent mountain views.
Proper acclimatization at Namche is particularly important before heading toward Thame and the higher valleys.
After Namche, the Gokyo Circuit becomes quieter as the route heads toward Thame.
Thame is a traditional Sherpa village with a strong connection to Himalayan mountaineering and the historic trade routes toward Tibet. The area is surrounded by spectacular mountains and contains ancient Buddhist monasteries.
Thame provides a very different atmosphere from busy Namche. The trail is less crowded, and trekkers can experience traditional Sherpa culture, stone houses, prayer flags, mani walls and mountain farming practices.
The Thame Valley is also associated with historic crossings toward Tibet, making this section particularly interesting for travelers interested in Himalayan history.
The journey continues toward Lungden, a remote settlement located at a much higher altitude.
Lungden is particularly important for trekkers following the northern Gokyo Circuit because it provides an opportunity to rest before entering more demanding high-altitude terrain.
The environment around Lungden is rugged and increasingly barren. Trees become less common as the elevation rises, while rocky mountains, alpine valleys and snow-covered peaks dominate the landscape.
Because the route becomes increasingly remote from this point onward, trekkers should remain with their guide and follow the planned itinerary carefully.
The Arya section of the route introduces trekkers to a quieter Himalayan landscape away from the conventional Everest trekking trail.
This region is characterized by open valleys, rocky mountain slopes, grazing areas and traditional settlements. Depending on the season and exact local route, the trail can be affected by snow and changing conditions.
The remote nature of Arya makes this section particularly attractive for experienced trekkers looking for solitude and wilderness.
Sumna Phu is one of the remote sections incorporated into this adventurous Gokyo Circuit itinerary. The route toward Sumna Phu Pass involves high-altitude walking through rugged Himalayan terrain.
The Sumna Phu Pass is a demanding mountain crossing where weather, snow and visibility can significantly affect trekking conditions. Because of the remoteness of this area, trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds and difficult trail conditions.
Crossing a high pass requires a slow and steady pace. Your guide will assess the trail, weather and physical condition of the group before attempting the pass.
For adventurous trekkers, Sumna Phu Pass is one of the most memorable sections of the entire circuit.
After the remote high-pass section, the landscape gradually connects with the magnificent Gokyo Valley.
Gokyo is famous for its turquoise glacial lakes, dramatic mountains and the enormous Ngozumpa Glacier. It is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Everest region.
The village of Gokyo sits beside the famous Third Gokyo Lake and provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding high-altitude landscape.
The view from Gokyo is extraordinary. Depending on weather and visibility, trekkers can see Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, Taboche and numerous surrounding peaks.
The Third Gokyo Lake is the most famous lake in the Gokyo Valley and is located beside Gokyo village.
Its clear blue-green water reflects the surrounding mountains and creates one of the most recognizable landscapes in the Everest region.
Trekkers normally stay overnight near the Third Lake because Gokyo village provides accommodation and dining facilities.
A walk around the lake during sunrise or sunset can be particularly beautiful when the mountains are illuminated by changing Himalayan light.
The Fourth Gokyo Lake, also known as Thonak Cho, lies farther north from Gokyo village.
The trail toward the Fourth Lake follows the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier and gradually enters a more isolated landscape.
The lake is surrounded by rugged mountains, rocky slopes and glacial terrain. Compared with the Third Lake, the Fourth Lake is much quieter and provides a stronger sense of wilderness.
Trekkers should allow enough time for this excursion and carry sufficient water, snacks, warm clothing and sun protection.
The Fifth Gokyo Lake is one of the most remote and spectacular destinations in the Gokyo Valley.
Located farther north beyond the Fourth Lake, it offers magnificent views toward the high Himalayan peaks and surrounding glaciers.
The Fifth Lake is particularly attractive to experienced trekkers who want to explore beyond the main Gokyo village.
Because of the altitude and remote terrain, the excursion should be undertaken with a knowledgeable local guide. Snow and weather conditions can make the trail challenging.
The Fifth Lake section provides an unforgettable wilderness experience and is one of the strongest highlights of the Gokyo Circuit Trek.
The Thonak La Pass, approximately 5,414 meters high, is one of the most demanding sections of this adventure.
Crossing Thonak La requires physical preparation, acclimatization and favorable weather conditions. The trail may contain snow and ice, particularly outside the main trekking seasons.
The pass provides a spectacular high-altitude panorama of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
On crossing Thonak La, trekkers experience a true wilderness environment where there are very few settlements and limited facilities. Therefore, preparation is essential.
Our experienced guides carefully monitor weather, altitude, snow conditions and the physical condition of each trekker before attempting the crossing.
The number of days can be increased or reduced according to group experience, acclimatization requirements, weather and trail conditions.
The cost of the trek depends on group size, itinerary duration, guide requirements, accommodation category, transportation and included services.
For solo trekkers, a private guide and porter arrangement provides greater flexibility and personal assistance.
Estimated solo trekking package: USD 2,300 per person.
For two people traveling together, shared transportation, accommodation and guide expenses can reduce the per-person price.
Estimated couple package: USD 1,950 per person.
For groups of 3–5 trekkers:
Estimated cost: USD 1,800 per person.
For groups of 6 or more:
Estimated cost: USD 1,650 per person.
These prices should be treated as package estimates. The final quotation may change depending on the selected itinerary, flights, permits, guide requirements, accommodation and seasonal conditions.
The required permits depend on the final route and current Nepal government regulations.
Typical costs may include:
Permit regulations and fees can change, so Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks will confirm the applicable permits before departure.
A professional guide is strongly recommended for this trek because the route includes remote valleys and high mountain passes.
Approximately USD 35–45 per day.
Approximately USD 25–30 per day.
Approximately USD 30–35 per day, suitable for budget-conscious trekkers on appropriate itineraries.
A female guide can be arranged upon request, generally around USD 40–50 per day, depending on experience, language and itinerary.
Guide and porter costs normally include their daily wages, but exact arrangements should be confirmed in the package quotation.
Teahouse accommodation is available throughout much of the trekking route, although facilities become increasingly basic in remote high-altitude areas.
Typical accommodation costs can range from USD 5–15 per night, depending on location and room type.
At lower elevations, some lodges may provide rooms with attached bathrooms, while higher settlements generally have shared bathroom facilities.
Food prices also increase with altitude because supplies must be transported into remote mountain villages.
Typical meal prices may be:
Popular trekking meals include dal bhat, noodles, pasta, rice, potatoes, soups, Tibetan bread, eggs and other local or continental dishes.
Drinking enough water is essential at high altitude.
Available options include:
A reusable bottle and purification system can reduce plastic waste and help lower the overall cost of drinking water.
The best seasons are generally spring and autumn.
Spring provides relatively stable weather, warmer daytime conditions and blooming rhododendrons at lower elevations.
March can still be cold at high passes, while April and May often provide excellent trekking conditions.
Autumn is widely considered one of the best trekking periods in Nepal. The monsoon usually leaves clear mountain views, and the weather is generally stable.
October and November are particularly popular for high-altitude trekking.
Winter can bring heavy snow, freezing temperatures and difficult high-pass conditions. Some high-altitude sections may become inaccessible.
Rain, clouds, wet trails and landslides at lower elevations can make trekking less comfortable. High-altitude sections may also experience unpredictable weather.
AMS is one of the major concerns on any trek reaching above 3,000 meters.
Symptoms may include:
The best prevention is gradual acclimatization and sensible pacing.
Our itinerary includes acclimatization opportunities at important elevations such as Namche and Gokyo.
Trekkers should drink sufficient fluids, avoid excessive alcohol, sleep adequately and communicate immediately with their guide if they feel unwell.
Medication such as acetazolamide should only be used according to appropriate medical advice.
If symptoms become severe, descending to a lower altitude is the safest response. No trekking schedule is more important than your health.
Because this itinerary includes high passes above 5,000 meters, packing must be more comprehensive than for a standard lower-altitude trek.
This trek is best suited to people with good physical fitness and previous experience with long-distance trekking.
You do not necessarily need technical mountaineering experience for every section, but the high passes can be physically demanding and conditions can become difficult.
Preparation should include regular walking, hiking, stair climbing and cardiovascular exercise before the trek.
Anyone with medical concerns should consult an appropriate medical professional before undertaking a high-altitude trek.
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks provides professionally organized trekking services throughout Nepal and specializes in customized Himalayan adventures.
We focus on:
Our objective is not simply to take you across the mountains but to provide a safe, enjoyable and memorable Himalayan experience.
The major highlights of this adventure include:
The Gokyo Circuit Trek via Sumna Phu Pass and Thonak La is an extraordinary journey for adventurers who want to experience the hidden side of the Everest region.
From the lively mountain town of Lukla to the peaceful trails of Phakding, the Sherpa heartland of Namche and Thame, the remote valleys around Lungden, the challenging Sumna Phu section and the spectacular Gokyo Lakes, every part of this trek offers a different Himalayan experience.
The turquoise Third, Fourth and Fifth Gokyo Lakes, enormous Ngozumpa Glacier and dramatic high-altitude landscape make the Gokyo Valley one of Nepal's most beautiful trekking destinations. Crossing Thonak La adds a serious adventure challenge for trekkers seeking something beyond a conventional itinerary.
Because the route involves remote areas and high mountain passes, proper preparation and professional guidance are essential. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks can customize the itinerary according to your available time, group size, trekking experience and preferred level of service.
Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, with friends or as a larger group, we can arrange a suitable trekking package with experienced guides, porters, permits, accommodation, transportation and necessary logistical support.
Start planning your Gokyo Circuit adventure today.
Elevation: 1,350m
Trekking: No trekking
Accommodation: Tourist-standard hotel
Meals: Welcome dinner
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you can relax and recover from your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short walk around the vibrant streets of Thamel or simply rest at the hotel. In the evening, our team will organize a trek briefing, where your guide will explain the route, safety procedures, accommodation, meals, altitude concerns, and necessary equipment.
You will also have an opportunity to check your trekking equipment and make any last-minute preparations.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: A comfortable hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. A welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine will be provided.
Elevation: Lukla 2,840m / Phakding 2,610m
Trekking: Approximately 4 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Your Gokyo Circuit adventure begins with an exciting flight toward Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Depending on operational conditions, flights may be scheduled from Kathmandu or Ramechhap.
After landing at Lukla, you will meet the supporting crew and begin walking through the beautiful Dudh Koshi Valley. The trail passes through small Sherpa settlements, cultivated fields, mani walls and prayer wheels.
Today is intentionally short to allow your body to gradually adjust to the increasing elevation. You will reach Phakding, a pleasant riverside settlement where you spend the night.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast is served before departure. Lunch will be taken at a local teahouse along the trail, while dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at a comfortable trekking lodge in Phakding.
Elevation: 3,440m
Trekking: Approximately 7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, you continue north along the Dudh Koshi Valley toward the famous Sherpa trading town of Namche Bazaar. The trail crosses several suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags and passes through forests of pine, fir, rhododendron and juniper.
You will enter Sagarmatha National Park and gradually gain altitude. The final section involves a steep climb toward Namche. With each step, the mountain landscape becomes more impressive.
Namche is the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu region and is surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the lodge, lunch at a teahouse on the trail and dinner at the lodge in Namche. Overnight in a comfortable local lodge.
Elevation: 3,800m
Trekking: Approximately 4 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Today you leave the busy Everest trail and enter the more peaceful Thame Valley. The trail follows the Bhote Koshi River through a landscape surrounded by rugged Himalayan cliffs.
Thame is an important historical Sherpa settlement and is traditionally associated with mountaineers and legendary Sherpa climbers. The quieter environment makes this section particularly rewarding.
After reaching Thame, you can explore the village and nearby Buddhist sites while allowing your body to adapt to the increasing altitude.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the lodge, packed or teahouse lunch during the walk, and a warm dinner at the lodge. Overnight in a local mountain lodge.
Elevation: Around 3,800m
Trekking: Rest and acclimatization
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Today is dedicated to acclimatization before entering the more remote and higher sections of the circuit. Rather than remaining completely inactive, a short hike around Thame is recommended.
You can explore the surrounding hills, visit a monastery, walk through the traditional village or climb to a nearby viewpoint. The purpose is to expose your body to a higher altitude and then return to Thame for another night.
Your guide will monitor your condition and provide advice about hydration, pacing and altitude sickness prevention.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served at the lodge. Accommodation will be in a comfortable local lodge.
Elevation: 4,302m
Trekking: Approximately 6 hours
Accommodation: Tent camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After acclimatizing in Thame, the adventure becomes more remote. You follow the trail toward Arya, gradually climbing through a stark alpine landscape.
Vegetation becomes increasingly sparse as you gain altitude. The trail offers impressive views of surrounding peaks, rocky ridges and glacial valleys.
As there are limited lodge facilities on this section, tonight will be spent at a tent camp. Our trekking crew will establish the camp before your arrival and prepare a warm meal.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast will be prepared at camp before trekking. Lunch will be served along the route, while the kitchen crew will prepare a nutritious hot dinner at the campsite. Overnight in a tent.
Elevation: 4,920m
Trekking: Approximately 6 hours
Accommodation: Tent camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Today is another demanding high-altitude trekking day. The trail continues upward toward Sumna Phu, where the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and glacial.
At nearly 5,000 meters, the air is noticeably thinner, so your guide will maintain a slow and steady pace. Frequent breaks and adequate hydration are important.
The surrounding scenery becomes spectacular, with barren slopes, rocky peaks and vast Himalayan wilderness replacing the green valleys below.
You will arrive at camp in the afternoon and have time to rest and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the tent camp, packed lunch or freshly prepared trail lunch, and a hot dinner at camp. Overnight in a comfortable expedition-style tent.
Elevation: Thonak Cho 4,834m / Thonak La 5,416m
Trekking: Approximately 8–9 hours
Accommodation: Tent camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
This is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the entire Gokyo Circuit. After an early breakfast, you begin the ascent toward Thonak La (5,416m).
The climb is demanding because of the altitude and rugged terrain. Your guide will set a careful pace, and you will take regular breaks. Once you reach the high pass, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the surrounding Himalayan wilderness.
You then descend toward Thonak Cho, also known as Gokyo's Fourth Lake. The turquoise glacial lake surrounded by barren mountain terrain creates an extraordinary landscape.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Early breakfast at camp, packed lunch during the pass crossing and hot dinner after reaching camp. Overnight in a tent camp near Thonak Cho.
Elevation: 4,800m
Trekking: Approximately 5 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, you continue toward the beautiful Gokyo Valley. The trail passes through a dramatic landscape of glacial moraines, rocky terrain and turquoise alpine lakes.
As you approach Gokyo, the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular. The famous Gokyo Lakes are fed by glacial water and are surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world.
After reaching Gokyo, you can relax beside the lake and enjoy the extraordinary mountain scenery. Gokyo is one of the most beautiful settlements in the Everest region.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the camp, lunch at a teahouse or lodge along the route, and dinner at a Gokyo lodge. Overnight in a local mountain lodge.
Elevation: 4,368m
Trekking: Approximately 7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Today you leave the Gokyo Valley and begin the journey back toward the lower Khumbu. The trail descends gradually through the high Himalayan landscape.
As you lose elevation, the environment slowly changes, and you may notice more vegetation returning to the surrounding slopes.
The long walking day takes you toward Lugden, a remote settlement in the upper Khumbu region. The trail remains scenic, with impressive views of mountains and deep valleys.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the Gokyo lodge, lunch at a teahouse on the trail, and dinner at the lodge in Lugden. Overnight in a local trekking lodge.
Elevation: 3,440m
Trekking: Approximately 6 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Today you continue descending toward Namche Bazaar. The trail gradually becomes greener as you lose altitude.
You pass traditional settlements, mani stones and Buddhist prayer flags while following the familiar Khumbu trails. After several days in remote high-altitude terrain, arriving back in Namche provides an opportunity to enjoy the town's lively atmosphere.
You can relax at a bakery or café, purchase souvenirs or simply enjoy a comfortable evening.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the lodge, lunch at a teahouse along the route and dinner at the lodge in Namche. Overnight in a comfortable lodge.
Elevation: 2,828m
Trekking: Approximately 7 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Your final trekking day takes you from Namche back to Lukla. You retrace sections of the trail through the beautiful Dudh Koshi Valley.
The route includes suspension bridges, forests and traditional Sherpa villages. Although it is a long walking day, the decreasing altitude generally makes the trek more comfortable.
Upon reaching Lukla, you can celebrate the successful completion of the Gokyo Circuit with your guide and trekking crew.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the lodge, lunch at a teahouse en route and dinner at a lodge in Lukla. Overnight in a comfortable local lodge.
Elevation: Kathmandu 1,350m
Trekking: No trekking
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will head to Lukla Airport for your return flight. Depending on the flight schedule and seasonal aviation arrangements, you may fly to Ramechhap Airport and continue by road to Kathmandu, or fly directly to Kathmandu when operations permit.
After reaching Kathmandu, you will transfer to your hotel and have the remainder of the day free.
Highlights:
Food & Accommodation: Breakfast at the lodge before the flight and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu. Other meals can be arranged according to your preference.
Elevation: 1,350m
Trekking: No trekking
Accommodation: Not included after departure
Meals: Breakfast
Your Gokyo Circuit Trek officially concludes today. After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your international flight schedule.
If your flight is later in the day, you may have free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu.
We hope you return home with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, Sherpa culture, high mountain passes, turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the spectacular Everest region.
Highlights:
Note: High-altitude routes and flight operations in the Everest region can be affected by weather and trail conditions. The final itinerary may be adjusted by the guide for safety and acclimatization. Also, Day 14 appears to be an additional departure day after the Day 13 return to Kathmandu/Ramechhap; if the intention is a 14-day Kathmandu-to-Kathmandu package, Day 13 and Day 14 can be presented as the return/contingency and international departure days respectively.
Note: The Trip cost will depend on the group size duration of days and services required please contact us via our e-mail at binod6000@gmail.com with your details to obtain a quote.
