Gokyo Lakes Trek

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a high-altitude trek in the Everest region of Nepal that takes us to the valley of turquoise lakes, the Gokyo Valley surrounded by gigantic mountains […]

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Overview

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a high-altitude trek in the Everest region of Nepal that takes us to the valley of turquoise lakes, the Gokyo Valley surrounded by gigantic mountains and picturesque lakes. Gokyo Valley, the world’s highest freshwater lake system, is home to 19 lakes in total, big and small. Because of their magnitude and reach, six of them stand out in particular. The Gokyo lakes, which are considered sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, are the highest freshwater lake system in the world and have been recognized as wetlands of international significance by Ramsar.

During our Gokyo Lake Trek, we will be walking along the trails that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a unique cultural experience. We get the exceptional chance to see breathtaking Himalayan ranges rising above 8,000 meters while we trek to Gokyo Valley. These ranges include Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8414m), Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Ngozumpa Glacier, which is Nepal’s largest glacier. We can also visit the fifth and sixth lakes in a high alpine bowl at the base of Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest mountain in the world, by staying an extra day in the Gokyo Valley.

Trekking to Gokyo Lakes is also an alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp Trek for trekkers seeking a less crowded trail yet equally impressive scenery. The rocky and steep terrain of the Gokyo valley not just deliver the optimum vistas of the Everest ranges, but also holds beautiful glacial lakes and mesmerizing glaciers. One of the highlights of trekking to Gokyo Lake will be a strenuous climb up to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for the vistas of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. Gokyo village (4,700 m), a quaint village on the shore of the third Gokyo Lake, is another nearby attraction. Especially impressive is the view of Gokyo Valley, which consists of a patchwork of meadows and stone structures along the shore of the massive lake Dudh Pokhari.

Our Gokyo Lake Trek begins with a scenic and adrenaline-filled flight toward Lukla from the historic city of Kathmandu. Often famous as the most dangerous airstrip in the world, the journey towards Lukla airstrip is a spine-tingling experience in itself. We continue our planned Gokyo Lake Trek itinerary with a descent to Phakding and then ascend to Namche. En route, travelers pass through scenic forests of pine and rhododendrons alongside the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Finally, we arrive at Namche Bazaar, which is commonly recognized as the entry point to Everest. An overnight stay in Namche is especially beneficial as it provides an opportunity to take in the breathtaking surroundings and learn about the local climate and mountaineering.

During an acclimatization day at Namche, trekkers will have the opportunity to explore the local market, visit monasteries, and take a brief tour of the Sherpa Museum. Our journey then continues from Khumjung to Dole, providing a glimpse into the Himalayan way of life, its inhabitants, and the natural environment. As we ascend to Dole, a noticeable transformation in the atmosphere, vegetation, and human settlement becomes apparent, although small tea houses remain along the path. Further ahead of Dole, our Gokyo Lake Itinerary includes crossing the river and trekking steep and challenging trails to Machhermo. It is where the trekkers can explore several glacial lakes, including Ngozumpa Glacier, Cho La, Dudh Pokhari, and of course the renowned Gokyo Lake. In this way, our journey to the Gokyo Lake comes to an end. We conclude the journey with the remarkable memories of the trek, returning to Lukla, and catching a flight back to Kathmandu.

The Gokyo Lake Trek passes through the Sagarmatha National Park, a protected area with fragile ecosystems and wildlife. It’s essential to follow all guidelines and regulations set by the park authority to minimize our impact on the environment. Therefore, trekkers require a permit from the Sagarmatha National Park authority to trek to the Gokyo Valley. Nepal Mountain Guide will make the arrangements of the Sagarmatha National Park permit along with the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Tax which are essential to trek in the region.

Planning the Gokyo Lake Trek is most rewarding during the spring months (March to April) or in the autumn (September to November). It is about a 2-week journey which is somewhat demanding and it is highly recommended to have sound physical and mental fitness before embarking on the trek. Get in touch with Nepal Mountain Guide to get support and further information for planning and organizing the Gokyo Valley Trekking with a proficient crew.

Itinerary

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Day 01

Kathmandu to Lukla flight. Then trek to Phakding (2,650 m / 8,562 ft.)

Our adventure to Gokyo Lake starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a quick 30-minute journey offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and rushing waterfalls. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our team and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off on the trek. The trail follows the hills alongside the roaring Dudh Koshi River, heading toward Phakding. Along the way, we pass through Chaurikharka Village and descend toward the river, where we’re treated to stunning vistas. After a final stretch along a well-trodden path, we’ll arrive in Phakding for an overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 02

Phakding to Namche (3440m)

The 5.8-mile trek from Phakding to Namche is a challenging one, so we’ll need to get an early start. The journey follows a picturesque route along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing over the suspension bridge. After crossing the Hillary Suspension Bridge and passing through a few remote villages, the trail leads to Sagarmatha National Park. Here, we’ll obtain permits for the sanctuary before climbing through the forest, where we’ll get our first clear view of Mount Everest. Following a steep ascent, we’ll finally reach Namche Bazaar.
Day 03

Acclimatization Day at Namche

The trails leading to Dole from Namche are physically demanding, with significant elevation gain. Instead of starting the climb, we'll rest in Namche for the day. After breakfast, we'll head to Everest Hotel View, a 2-3 hour walk to a hilltop offering stunning views of Mt. Everest and Thamserku, surrounded by sharp hills and subtropical forests. The descent back to Namche offers beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and rolling hills. We'll stay in the same guesthouse as before in Namche.
Day 04

Trek from Namche to Dole (4200m)

After acclimatization, we’re ready to head back up to Dole. The trek involves a steep climb and a scenic walk through the forest, with the path being a bit rocky, featuring continuous ups and downs. The trail diverges from the main EBC route and takes a winding path through the Mong La Pass after nearly two hours of walking. Along the way, trekkers can catch glimpses of the stunning Ama Dablam and Mt. Khumbila. To reach Dole, there’s a downhill walk through rhododendron and pine forests before continuing on to the riverside village of Phortse Tenga. From there, it’s a challenging uphill climb to the village, which can be quite exhausting.
Day 05

Trek from Dole to Macchermo (4470m)

We left Dole and began our hike to Machhermo, following a steady uphill ascent through expansive pastures where yaks roam freely. Along the way, we passed numerous religious shrines and prayer flags, adding to the breathtaking scenery. The trail revealed stunning views of Mt. Cho Oyu, Lhotse Shar, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse. We also passed through the charming village of Lapharma and Luja before reaching Machhermo, where we spent the night at a teahouse.
Day 06

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo Lake (4790m)

After about an hour of trekking, we’ll pass through grazing yak fields and continue towards Phanga. Along the way, we’ll encounter memorials dedicated to those lost in landslides. As the trail ascends, it becomes steeper and narrower. The path here is rugged, filled with rocks and boulders. Though short, the trek is physically demanding and takes around an hour. Gokyo, one of the highest villages in Nepal, sits on the eastern shore of the third Gokyo Lake. Just a short walk from the lake and nestled beneath the Gokyo Ri, we’ll stop for lunch in the village before taking some time to enjoy the stunning views. You can also explore the Gokyo village to get a better feel of the area. We’ll spend the night at one of the teahouses or hotels in Gokyo village.
Day 07

Hike to Gokyo-Ri (5,357 m) and Trek down to Dole

Morning Ascent to Gokyo Ri After breakfast, we trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m / 17,575 ft), a steep 2 km climb taking 1.5 to 2 hours. The rocky trail is challenging but rewards us with stunning mountain views at the summit. Trek from Gokyo to Dole We descend toward Dole, passing glacial moraines, stone chortens, and stunning views of Thamserku and Kantega. The trail winds through villages and the Dudh Koshi River Valley before ending at the peaceful village of Dole, where we spend the night. Optional Route: Explore the Gokyo 5th Lake and stay an extra night in Gokyo village to visit all four Gokyo Lakes.
Day 08

Dole to Namche Bazaar

Our next destination lies just 7.4 miles from the village of Dole. The journey to Namche is not particularly challenging but stretches longer, with a mix of ascents and descents. Leaving Dole, the trail meanders through dense forests and remote villages, descending to Sanasa and passing through Phortse Tanga before reaching Mong. Along the way, we’ll encounter several Tibetan monasteries and ancient Chortens. Nestled among steep hills and towering mountains, Namche offers breathtaking views. After soaking in the stunning scenery, we’ll return to the teahouse for some well-deserved rest.
Day 09

Namche Bazaar to Lukla

We’ll conclude our Gokyo Valley trek in Lukla. After descending the steep hills and crossing Hillary's suspension bridge, we’ll head toward a local village. Much of today's journey follows the scenic Dudh Koshi River Valley. Upon reaching Lukla, we’ll freshen up and relax at our lodge. Having successfully completed the expedition, it’s only fitting to celebrate our achievement. After dinner, we’ll settle in for a well-deserved rest.
Day 10

Early flight back to Kathmandu

We will depart for Lukla Airport early in the morning. The flight to Kathmandu will take approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, our staff will escort you to your hotel, where you can relax for the rest of the day or explore nearby shops at your leisure.

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