Side by side
| Gokyo Ri Trek | Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 12 | 22 |
| Highest point | 5,357 m | 5,143 m |
| Difficulty | Strenuous | |
| Total distance | 100 km | 225 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to December | March to May and October to November |
| Typical cost | $1,000 to $2,000 | $2,500 to $4,500 |
| Starts from | Lukla | Taplejung (1,820 m) - via flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar then to Taplejung, or overland |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Gokyo Ri Trek if
The Gokyo Ri Trek is a spectacular alternative to Everest Base Camp, leading you up the tranquil Dudh Kosi valley to a series of turquoise glacial lakes. The ascent of Gokyo Ri offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, making it a visual masterpiece.
Requires a good level of physical fitness.
Choose the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek if
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is a 20 to 25 day challenging remote trek in far-eastern Nepal, approaching the third highest mountain in the world (8,586 m) from both north and south base camps. It requires a restricted area permit, a licensed guide, and significant logistical preparation. The reward is some of the most pristine wilderness and authentic cultural encounters in all of the Himalaya.
One of the most demanding teahouse treks in Nepal due to the remoteness, altitude, duration, and the physical demand of the full north-to-south traverse. Not recommended for first-time Himalayan trekkers.
