Gokyo Lakes Trek

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
At a Glance
14 Days
Duration
Moderate to Strenuous
Trip Grade
Nepal
Country
5,360m
Maximum Altitude
2 - 3
Group Size
Lukla
Starts
Sept - Nov and Mar - May
Best Time
Overview

The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a breathtaking journey to the stunning Gokyo Lakes. This trek is also known as the Gokyo Ri Trek. Following our professionally designed Gokyo Lake Trek itinerary, you will reach the highest freshwater lake system in the world. Gokyo Lakes comes under the Ramsar Site and boasts the most stunning scenic view. The Gokyo Trek is the best alternative to the usual Everest Base Camp Trek. The trail takes you to Khumjung Village, the oldest Khumbu village, where you can experience Sherpa culture.

Passing through lush forests of rhododendrons and pines, small villages, and ancient Gompas, you will reach the Gokyo Valley, where you will be spending a couple of nights. There are altogether 5 lakes, and among them, the third lake, known as Gokyo Lake, is the most beautiful one. The impressive turquoise color of the lake attracts many travelers every year. Gokyo Lake Trekking will present you magnificent Himalayan landscape and views of snow-capped mountains like Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Pumori (7,161 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Thamserku (6,623 m), Mt. Kangtega (6,782 m), etc.

During your two days in Gokyo village, you will embark on a short excursion to Gokyo Ri, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The Gokyo Ri Trek is a moderate journey, requiring no prior trekking experience. However, you must be in good health and shape, as the trail requires approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking each day.

You can also reflect on your life goals and inner self on Gokyo Trek. The peaceful environment and pristine air in the middle of nowhere will allow you to create the most memorable memories of your life. With Nepal Mother House, you will not only get a comprehensive package, but we also organize tailor-made Gokyo Lake Trek to fulfill your requirements. Feel free to contact us for Gokyo Trek costs or any other queries. We will get back to you as soon as we can from Lukla Airport

If you are looking for a shorter trek in the Gokyo Valley, then it can be completed in 10 days with good physical fitness. Here is the trip itinerary:

Gokyo Valley Trek Suggested Itinerary: -10 Days

Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 m) in 30 minutes; trek to Phakding (2,640 m) in 3 to 4 hours

Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 03: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and visit Khumjung Village (3,790 m) and Everest View Hotel (3,880 m)

Day 04: Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,200 m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 05: Dole to Machhermo (4,410 m) -4 to 5 hours

Day 06: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790 m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 07: Explore the day at Gokyo Ri/Peak (5,360 m) for -2 to 3 hours

Day 08: Gokyo to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m) -8 to 9 hours

Day 09: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800 m): 6 to 7 hours

Day 10: Fly back to Kathmandu for 30 minutes, then to your destination.

For more details, kindly contact us

Gokyo Lakes Trek
Day-to-day

Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary

At the Tribhuvan International Airport, our support team will be waiting for you holding your Name Plate for your worm greeting. And transfer to the designated hotel, normally it takes 15 to 20 minutes from airport to touristic hub Thamel. We give you short brief about next meeting and trip plan. Free your own time, staying overnight at Hotel.

Day Highlights

Today is trekking preparation and permit organizing day and as an acclimatization day before heading in the Himalayan. If you are not provided your passport details, we will get copy of your Passport all and insurance policy. Check your insurance details whether it is cover your trip if in case you need it. And keep you a copy of your travel medical insurance policy and passport copy. While we will introduce you to our Guide, who will check your gears for the trekking and give advice accordingly. At the same time, we will give every detail about next day flight time and pick up from the hotel.

Day Highlights

Mostly, Lukla flight conduct early in the morning, you will transfer from the hotel in the morning according to your flight schedule. After 15 minutes’ drive to the airport, we are waiting for Lukla flight; the scenic exciting flight will be 25 to 30 minutes to get in Lukla. Our Guide will introduce you with other our crew, who are already in there. Lukla is nestled by Sherpa people with their cultural richness. The trek begins at Lukla and heading to Ghat Village (2,530m) via Chheplung along the Dudh Koshi River and get in Phakding in 2 to 3 hours walk. This is relatively short and easy walks in the heart of the Khumbu region. We are staying overnight at Lodge.

Day Highlights

Today, the trail goes along the Dodh Koshi River banks through the Tok Tok, Benkar crossing same river several times. About in two hours gentle walk get in Manjo Village (3,835m), where we will check our permits in Sagarmatha National Park Gate. Then the trail drop for a while to the River and get in Jorsale left side of the river. As Jorsale is last village before Namche Bazaar, batter to have lunch here. Then the trail upwards to the river bank and cross the suspension bridge, high from the surface, where confluence of Bhote Koshi and Dudha Koshi, Then the trail ascend winding through the forest for 2 to 3 hours get in vibrant Sherpa settlement Namche Bazaar. Stay overnight in Namche Bazaar with witness of wonderful snow-capped mountains.

Day Highlights

As today is rest and explore day for acclimation before heading high elevation. After late breakfast, we walk to the Everest View Hotel via Syangboche Airport through the crest of the top of the hill. In 2 hours ascending we will get in Everest View Hotel, where we will having cup of tea enjoying with breathtaking view of mountains including Mt, Everest, Nupste, Ama Dablam, Kangtegha, Thamserku, Kusum Khangru, Khongde and Khumbi yu La etc. Then, we follow the descending trail to the beautiful Khumjung village, where can see Hillary School, an ancient Monastery with a yeti scalp, and Khunde Hospital, and then return back to Namche taking another trail through the Yak farm and get in Syangboche airport. If you don’t want to hike to the Everest View Hotel, you may visit the Sagarmatha National Park head Quarter for detail information about the locality, Sherpa Museum, Monastery, and wondering around the Namche Bazaar.

Day Highlights

After having breakfast, we walk above the Dudh Koshi River through the pleasant trail under soaring peaks to Thamserku and further down overlooking magnificent view of the great giant snow peaks from Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde peak after a pleasant walk of two hours to a small place at Shanasa. Then trail ascends to the left towards Mongla Pass and continues descending down to Phortse Thanga. After having lunch, the trail leads you to ascend through the rhododendrons forest accompanied by the sounds of the river. You will have a glimpse of wildlife such as musk dear here in Jharal. It is a small place with few teahouses.

Day Highlights

Today, we climb to the picturesque ridge above Dole and then continue ascend to Luza at 4,360m via Lhabarma at 4,220m. Still the trail continues to climb up alongside a valley high above the river, crossing many sandy spurs to reach Machharmo at 4,410m. Here a Sherpa woman’s three Yaks were killed by the Yeti in 1974. This is the first Yeti sightings that were reported in Khumbu. After arriving a taking a break, we can visit the Himalayan rescue association and overnight at the hotel.

Day Highlights

First we climb up the ridge and can see excellent views both down the valley to Khangtega and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8,153m). We descend the river bank before beginning the climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa glacier where we will start to climb until first lake. The trail follows the valley to the second lake view and after an hour walk we will arrive at Gokyo (4,750m) on the edge of third lake. Today’s course is mostly gentle ascents and relatively flat trail to Gokyo. Total trekking time is about 5 to 6 hours. Stay overnight at Lodge.

Day Highlights

Early in the morning hike up to the Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for breathtaking views and a majestic sunrise at the top of the mountain. We can see the four highest mountains including roof of the world Mt. Everest (8,848m), Cho-Oyu (8,153m), Lhotse (8,516m) and Makalu 8,463m and many other snow-capped peaks. This will be unforgettable memory so please enjoy the top. You can see the Cho-yu base camp and Ngozumpa Glacier; one of the biggest glaciers in the world. After stroll back to hotel and stay overnight. We will have great memories and stroll back to Gokyo for breakfast then relax the rest of the day.

Day Highlights

After exploring Gokyo Valley and Gokyo lakes, most of the trail goes down gently to Dole. People who would like to take an alternative route to Phorche Village can. It turns east and climbs across the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa Glacier to Na (4,400m) nearby Phanga. On the way, you still have chance to see a number of mountains view around you. Stay overnight at Dole.

Day Highlights

After breakfast again all the same way trek down to Phorche Thanga through rhododendron and pine forest. Then the trail leads you up to Mongla hill and gradual descent to the Sanasa the main trail for the Everest Base Camp. We are heading down to Namche Bazaar for overnight stay.

Day Highlights

Today is long day to get in Lukla about 6 to 7 hours all mostly descend. At first the trail downhill through the national park, often you have pleasant landscape view. In two hours you will cross the swing bridge above the high surface confluence of the two rivers and follow the river to the Jorsale and ascend foe while to the Manjo Gate and again follo the Dudh Koshi River to the Phakding, Ghat and Chheplung and follow the trail accending above the Caurikharka village and get in Lukla after 6 to 7 hours walk from Namche Bazaar. Our Guide will reconfirm flight ticket at airline office counter. We are staying night at Tea House.

Day Highlights

Mostly, there is early morning flight to Kathmandu to avoid the unexpected weather at afternoon; sometime the flight time can be delayed due to not favorable weather and other reason beyond our control. Nevertheless, we will fly back to Kathmandu in 25 to 30 minutes and transfer to your hotel. Now, you may have time to relax after long venture journey in Everest and catch your breath. You may wonder around the touristic hub Thamel or relax at your hotel the rest of day.

Note: Normally, there is not available direct flight to Kathmandu to Lukla during trekking high season. So you might be talking Ramechhap flight like you started trip Ramchhap to Lukla Flight.

Day Highlights

This is lad day of your Nepal Trip, so we will handover trekking permits, TIMS Card and trekking appreciation card as souvenir form Himalayan. Our assistance will come to the hotel with Car/Taxi for the International Airport transfer for your home destination. It would be great support for us. If could give feedback about Gokyo Trek. Fly to Home taking unforgettable experience from the Nepal.

Day Highlights
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Included

Gokyo Lakes Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • We pick up and drop off all transportation from the airport to the hotel and back.
  • The package includes a 3-night stay at a Star level accommodation in Kathmandu, with twin bed sharing and a BB Plan.
  • I have the necessary paperwork and trekking permit for Sagarmatha National Park.
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card for the Trekking.
  • The package includes an air ticket from Kathmandu to Lukla and from Lukla to Kathmandu, as well as airport tax. The weight limit is 10 kg for main baggage and 5 kg for hand baggage per passenger per flight.
  • If necessary, carry trekking equipment such as worm-down jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags during the trek.
  • Nepal Mother House T-shirt/Cap and Appreciation Card of Trip.
  • There were three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • The accommodation is soft and comfortable, with a shared twin bed for the entire mountain.
  • The individual requires an English-speaking, friendly guide who holds a government license for their food, accommodation, transportation, salary, equipment, and insurance.
  • A Trekking Map of an Everest Base Camp Trip for a Group.
  • We will be providing supplemental snacks (cookies, fresh fruits) on the trek.
  • If the group size exceeds 10, an additional Sherpa (assistance guide) will be provided. They are also responsible for providing food, accommodation, wages, insurance, and equipment.
  • During the trip, carry a first-aid medical kit that includes an oxygen meter to measure oxygen and pulse at high altitude.
  • Welcome and farewell program.
  • The package includes a tourist service charge, VAT, government tax, and official expenses if necessary.

Excludes

  • We offer a wide variety of cold and hot drinks, such as drinking water, tea, coffee, chocolate, cookies, desserts, phone calls, laundry, and hot showers.
  • The clients' travel insurance and evacuation are mandatory.
  • If, in that case, the flight is canceled, a charter helicopter or plane.
  • If you need a porter who can lift up to 20–25 kg, they will also provide food, accommodation, a wage, insurance, and all necessary transportation. Optional trips and sightseeing are available if extended.
  • Consider leaving a gratuity for the guide and porter during your meals in Kathmandu.
  • Personal expenses include things like shopping, souvenirs or gifts, and personal mountaineering gear.
  • Optional trips and sightseeing are available if extended.
  • The package includes international airfare, airport departure tax, and visa fee.
  • Our services include everything not listed above, including the trip cost.
  • Visa fee, You obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Availability

Departure Dates

Except for the fixed departure date, we have every day departure according to your requirements.

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Add-Ons

Add-Ons & Options

[Available at Checkout]

  • Helicopter Flight Lukla to Kathmandu! at $600 per Person
  • More Comfortable Tea House Entire Trek $ 533 for 20 Nights for two people.
  • Hire a Porter for Just $23 a Day! (2:1 Porter) who carries 20-25 kg, may share porter with fellow. 
  • Embark on a Thrilling 2-night 3-day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour for Only $280 per Person

Escape the Lukla Regular flight and enjoy a lifetime helicopter flight mesmerizing view.

Much more comfortable tea house with a private bathroom, and hot shower.

2:1 porter, who carries 20 - 25 kg including his own 4 to 5 kg personal gear. You may share the porter cost with your trekking fellow.

Witness endangered wildlife and immerse in Tharu culture. Book a 2-night 3-day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour at just $280/person, including round-trip tourist bus transport.

Good to Know

Essential Information

Select the Best time to go on Gokyo Ri Trek

The best time to go on the Gokyo Ri Trek is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). The temperature ranges from 15-20 °C (59–68 °F) in spring and 15–25 °C (59–77 °F) in autumn. With the end of winter, the region welcomes a variety of vegetation and flowers. Likewise, autumn is also the month of festivals like several Jataras, Dashain, Tihar/Dipawali, Chhat, etc. that happen in these months.

How do you prevent altitude sickness?

You should first notify your guide so he can act quickly. Usually, your guide will advise you to descend a few meters or return to the previous village for rest, unless your symptoms subside. This is sufficient to alleviate AMS; however, in rare cases, if altitude sickness remains uncontrolled, you may need to conduct an emergency evacuation or return.

See below for the symptoms and prevention of acute mountain sickness (AMS):

Symptoms:

  • Difficulty sleeping.
  • You may experience dizziness or light-headedness.
  • Fatigue.
  • Headache.
  • The patient is experiencing a loss of appetite.
  • I am experiencing nausea or vomiting.
  • Rapid pulse (heart rate)
  • The patient is experiencing shortness of breath with exertion.

Prevention:

  • Keep yourself hydrated
  • Take medication like Dexamethasone
  • Drop down to a lower elevation
  • Do not gain altitude unless you get rid of altitude sickness
  • Don't push yourself to complete the trek if symptoms do not go away and return.

Is it Possible to Gokyo Valley Trek Without a Lukla Flight?

If you are looking to avoid the Lukla flight during the Gokyo Lakes Trek, then you may drive from Kathmandu to Thamdanda by Jeep. This helps to save on the Lukla flight and minimize the trip cost. 

Gokyo Lake Trek Suggested Itinerary: 14 Days by Jeep Drive

Day 01: Drive Kathmandu to Salleri (2,390 m) -9 to 10 hours
Day 02: Drive Salleri to Surke (2,290 m) -7 to 8 hours & trek Surke to Phakding (4 to 5 hours) via Chaurikharka near Lukla
Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m) -5 to 6 hours
Day 04: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and visit Khumjung Village (3,790 m), Everest View Hotel
Day 05: Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,200 m) -5 to 6 hours
Day 06: Dole to Machhermo (4,410 m) -4 to 5 hours
Day 07: Rest and acclimatization day at Machhermo 
Day 08: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790 m) -5 to 6 hours
Day 09: Explore the day at Gokyo Ri/Peak (5,360 m) for -2 to 3 hours
Day 10: Gokyo to Dole (4,200 m) -5 to 6 hours
Day 11: Dole to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m) -4 to 6 hours
Day 12: Trek Namche Bazaar to Surke (2,290 m): 7 to 8 hours -22 KM
Day 13: Drive Surke to Salleri (2,390 m) by Jeep -7 to 8 Hours
Day 14: Drive Salleri to Kathmandu by Jeep  -9 to 10 Hours

For further information, don't hesitate to contact us; we are here to assist you. 

Trip FAQs

Gokyo Lakes Trek FAQs

Gokyo Trekking is a difficult trek that will take you to the beautiful Gokyo Valley. You have to be in good shape and health to go on Gokyo Trek. If you are a novice trekker then don’t worry a small prior preparation will help you complete this trek successfully. Preparation includes a few short hikes, exercise, and a strong itinerary. Also, make sure to go through the packing list nicely so that you do not forget anything behind.

If you are doing Everest Gokyo Trek on your own then it will be more tiring and only reach one point to another. You have to carry your entire luggage by yourself. Plus, you are not known about the path and the risks it involves. However, if you trek with a guide and porter then the first thing is you will be safe.

The guides are known for all the paths and routes as they have mapped the region several times. Porter will carry the entire heavy luggage while you can enjoy the journey. Do not hesitate to give porters to carry the heavy luggage (20 to 25 kg) because this is the only way of their living. You are helping them. Likewise, guides and porters will inform you about the places and the highlights that you shouldn't miss. In case of any emergency, they are the ones who will save you.

Yes, you need travel insurance to go on Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek. Make sure your travel insurance covers the following things.

  • Emergency airlift
  • Property loss or theft
  • Trip cancellation

Regarding storing extra bags; you are right! Light travel is the best way to explore. So, you can leave an extra bag either in our office at Nepal Mother House or in the hotel, as comfort for you. It is safe to store either in our office or Hotel.
 

Everest Base Camp Trek is organized as a Tea House basic, where you can choose food from the menu card, whatever you like to have. Normally, you can get different items on the menu. Like: Pizza, Macaroni, Models, rice, soup, bread, MOMO (dumpling), Sizzler, Stake, etc. items. This is mixed of different continual foods, Nepali Food Dalbhat, Indian, Chinese, continual, American, French, etc. at the main place. But in most of the places you have just a few choices to choose food; where Dal Bhat (Rice, Curry, lentil soup, Pickle: Nepalese food), Noodle items, Potato items, Rice items, Bread, Egg, etc.

According to our itinerary, you will visit the Gokyo Ri and Fifth Lake, which is nearby Cho Oyu Base Camp. To get to Cho Oyu Base Camp is a very long walk along the Ngozumpa Glacier, it won’t be possible to visit on the same day from Gokyo. I don’t think you will get back to Gokyo in one day. Even though, if you would like to try, we are glad to assist you.
 

Yes, you can swim in Gokyo Lake. It would be great PR for us if you allow giving a chance to organize your trip. We have successfully organized a Trip for a group of Police officers (26) from Ireland and Artist/film maker Arman from Finland. Please find attached some pictures of Amadablam and others.