The best seasons for Gokyo Ri are April to May and October to November. Autumn gives the clearest views and the steadiest weather. Spring is warmer, and the lakes may still be partly frozen early in the season. Winter is very cold and the monsoon is cloudy.
Autumn
October and November are the favourite months, with dry air and sharp mountain views. Nights are cold at Gokyo, often well below freezing.
Spring
April and May are warmer and the days are longer. Haze can build in the afternoon, so start early. The lakes may still be frozen in early April.
Winter
December to February are very cold, with strong wind at the top. Some lodges close, and the trek is only for experienced trekkers.
Monsoon
June to September bring cloud and rain. Views are limited, and flights to Lukla can be delayed.
Temperatures
At Gokyo, nights in autumn are often below minus 10 degrees Celsius, and the top of Gokyo Ri can be colder in wind. Days are sunny and pleasant in the lower valley. Spring is slightly warmer.
Crowds and lodges
The valley is quieter than the Everest Base Camp trail, but lodges at Gokyo fill up in October. Book early in the peak weeks.
Plan it
See the itinerary and how hard it is.
