Side by side
| Gokyo Ri Trek | Makalu Base Camp Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 12 | 18 |
| Highest point | 5,357 m | 4,870 m |
| Difficulty | Strenuous | |
| Total distance | 100 km | 145 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to December | March to May and October to November |
| Typical cost | $1,000 to $2,000 | $1,450 to $2,200 |
| Starts from | Lukla | Num (via Tumlingtar flight and jeep) |
| 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 Makalu Base Camp Trek if
The Makalu Base Camp trek is an 18 day wilderness route in eastern Nepal leading into Makalu Barun National Park to the base of Mount Makalu at 4,870 m. Trekkers journey from subtropical cloud forests over rugged Shipton La pass into the dramatic sheer granite amphitheatre of Barun Valley.
Demanding high-altitude crossing of Shipton La at 4,210 m with steep climbs and descents. The upper Barun valley is remote with simple teahouses and unpredictable mountain weather.
