The Gokyo Lake Trek is a serene alternative to the classic Everest trails. This journey takes you to the world’s highest freshwater lakes on a 13-day journey across the Sagarmatha National Park. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and other majestic peaks on this profound journey that blends natural beauty with Himalayan adventure.
The Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal is a premier trekking destination that traverses the Khumbu region. Although located along the classic Everest Base Camp trek, this trek offers a spectacular alternative for those seeking a more serene, off-the-beaten-path journey in the Himalayas. On this 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek, you travel into the world’s highest freshwater lake system. Here, you will find a series of six pristine turquoise glacial lakes situated between 4,700 to 5,000 meters.
Global Adventure Trekking partners with you to deliver a safe and memorable adventure along this offbeat trail. The trek is a comprehensive journey along the less-crowded trails of the Sagarmatha National Park. As you navigate the Himalayan wilderness, you will find stunning views of snow-capped mountains, massive glaciers, and diverse ecosystems.
The trek passes through charming Sherpa villages, along several cultural heritage sites, and dense rhododendron forests. Reaching the 5,357-meter vantage point of Gokyo Ri rewards you with panoramic views of the Ngozumpa Glacier and the Everest massif, including Mount Everest (8,848 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), Makalu (8,485 meters), and Cho Oyu (8,188 meters). You can further relish the views of surrounding peaks like Ama Dablam (6,812 meters), Gyanchung Kang (7,952 meters), Cholatse (6,440 meters), and Tawache (6,495 meters).
Take on the challenges of the Himalayan high altitudes on this majestic trek, which blends the beauty of nature and culture immersion. The Nepal Gokyo Lake Trek promises a deep sense of tranquility and accomplishment, ensuring a memorable journey.
Prepare for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure with Global Adventure Trekking. Book your Gokyo Lake Trek today!
The trek to Gokyo Lake is an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Everest region. It offers unparalleled mountain vistas, blending the unique culture of the region. Contrary to the popular trekking routes, this trek promises serenity, away from the bustling crowd, allowing you to create a more intimate connection with the landscapes.
The Gokyo Lake region is home to the highest freshwater lake systems in the world. Here, you will find six pristine turquoise lakes surrounded by massive glaciers. You can take in the stunning visuals of the surroundings that are tucked neatly underneath the massive Himalayas. Enjoy unparalleled serenity and purity as you enjoy the views from the glacial lakes.
The ascent to Gokyo Ri offers immersive views of the mighty Himalayas from this stunning vantage point. From the 5,357 meters, you will find a 360-degree view of four 8,000-meter peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. You will also find views of surrounding peaks such as Ama Dablam, Gyanchung Kang, Cholatse, and Tawache, and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.
Contrary to the adjacent Everest Base Camp route, the Gokyo Lake trail sees fewer crowds. This is a more peaceful and tranquil trek, allowing you to experience true Himalayan bliss. Since there are fewer trekkers on this trail, you can enjoy the tranquility of the mountains and engage in a more insightful interaction with the local Sherpa communities along the route.
The 13-day journey takes you along the traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung. In these traditional localities, you can enjoy the warm hospitality and experience the unique cultures and traditions of the Sherpa people. Take time to explore the ancient monasteries and get an immersive insight into the lifestyle of the locals that is connected with the mountains.
The 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek is an all-inclusive trekking package. Our Gokyo Lake trek cost covers all essentials, including the crucial trekking permits. The package also includes an experienced government-licensed trekking guide, who will ensure that your trek is safe and memorable.
Global Adventure Trekking arranges for your comfortable stay in clean and hygienic and clean teahouses/lodges along the trekking trails. In Kathmandu, you will be placed at a 2-star standard hotel with all amenities. Our package also covers full board meals during the trek, round-trip from Kathmandu to Lukla, and airport transfers.
However, depending on your luxury and necessities, the cost of the Gokyo Lake trek can change. Also, as porters are not mandatory, we have not included porter services in our package. But you can hire a porter for a safe and comfortable journey. A porter can carry a maximum of 20 kilos of your luggage, and it is generally shared between two trekkers.
Looking for a last-minute booking for this incredible Himalayan adventure? We offer a special 10% discount on the Gokyo Lake Trek. Book your trek 7 to 14 days before the trek and join our fixed departure dates.
For more information, contact our expert representatives.
On a typical trekking day during the Gokyo Lake trek, you will begin the day with a wake-up call, followed by a hearty breakfast at your local teahouse/lodge. After breakfast, you will prepare for your trek, which usually begins at around 8 AM. Your guide will lead the way, taking you past the stunning landscape, with the mighty Himalayas standing tall behind you.
The morning hike lasts 4 to 6 hours. You will maintain a steady but comfortable pace, properly acclimatizing along the way. The routes pass through Sherpa villages, dense pine and rhododendron forests, and across exciting suspension bridges.
Lunch is served at around midday at a resthouse along the trail. This is your chance to rest and refuel before getting on the remaining trek for the day. The afternoon trek is shorter and usually completed by late afternoon.
After reaching your teahouse/lodge, you can relax and spend some time exploring the local villages. As night falls, you will head back to your teahouse for dinner before heading to bed for a well-deserved rest.
Get a first-hand experience of the Himalayan trails. Inquire about the Gokyo Lake trek with our travel experts.
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Our travel experts have meticulously designed the 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek itinerary. The package takes you through iconic highlights, allows you to immerse yourself in the serene Himalayan landscapes, and provides insights into the local culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa communities.
However, we also understand that customizing the Gokyo Lake Nepal trek allows for a more personalized experience. With our customization feature, you can include additional days of exploration, walk at a more comfortable pace, extend trekking days by including other routes in the Everest region, and select desired lodging facilities.
Upgrade your Gokyo Lake Trek. Contact our travel experts for a fully tailor-made trek.
*Note: Due to unpredictable events beyond our control, our standard itinerary may differ slightly. In such situations, we look forward to your cooperation and flexibility. Adding two buffer days is strongly advised for last-minute adjustments.
*Lukla Flight Information: During peak seasons (March to May and September to November), all Lukla flights are diverted to Ramechhap Airport, situated 5 to 6 hours' drive from Kathmandu. Flights from Kathmandu operate only in the off-season (December to February and June to August). There are high chances of flight cancellations or delays due to b
Today, you will arrive in Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon your arrival, you will meet our representatives at the arrival gates, who will greet you with a warm welcome before assisting you with your transfer to your hotel. Check into your hotel, and take some time to rest. In the evening, prepare for your incredible journey through the Khumbu region.
Note: If you are unable to locate our airport representative at the arrival terminal, please contact Rajan Dahal at 9841527668.
Today, your day begins with an early morning flight to Lukla. During this scenic journey to the gateway to the Everest region, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas as the landscape changes from lush hills to icy peaks. Upon landing, you will meet the rest of your crew and begin your trek from Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport to Phakding.
Most flights from Kathmandu to Lukla during peak seasons (March to May and September to November) operate from Ramechhap due to air traffic congestion. Seats on the Lukla flights from Kathmandu are extremely limited and sell out months in advance. Book early to secure your direct flight from Kathmandu. If flights are not available, you can take a 4-5 hour drive from Kathmandu. You will board a sharing jeep/Hi-ace Van from Thamel (Garden of Dreams) that departs for Ramechhap between 1 to 2 AM. For a more private travel, you can book a private vehicle at an extra cost.
Upon reaching Ramechhap, you will board a flight to Lukla. From Lukla, your trek to Phakding begins immediately. The route gradually descends toward the Chaurikharka village along the Dudh Koshi River. You will hike across several charming Sherpa villages along the lush lowlands on a 4-hour hike before reaching Phakding. Overnight stay in Phakding.
Helicopter Option:
Helicopters are the best alternative for a quick and guaranteed flight to Lukla. can avoid the long-distance road travel to Ramechhap Airport and book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at an additional cost of USD 550 per person. The helicopter flight is operated on a sharing basis and consists of 5 passengers. The cost of an air ticket to Lukla is deducted while booking a helicopter flight to Lukla.
From Phakding, you will trek to the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar. The journey follows the Dudh Koshi trails and passes across several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge to Monjo. Upon reaching Monjo, you will enter the Sagarmatha National Park. Here, your permits and documents will be checked.
You have now come to the final leg of the day’s trek, which requires you to take on a steep ascent over the challenging pine forests. However, the ascent rewards you with your first glimpse of Mount Everest before reaching Namche Bazaar, the region’s commercial hub.
Namche Bazaar is the commercial hub of the Khumbu region. Here, you can spend the rest day at a cozy cafe, or exploring the ancient monasteries of the region. However, a short hike to nearby destinations is recommended for trekkers to help acclimate to the increasing altitude.
You can hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 meters) for a stunning panoramic view of the icy giants. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks. As you descend toward Namche Bazaar, you can explore the Khumjung Village. The village is known for its ancient monasteries and a local school founded by Sir Edmund Hillary.
As you leave Namche Bazaar, the trails take you over steep terrain, offering surreal views of the Everest massif. The trail diverts away from the Everest Base Camp trail and heads toward north Gokyo. Today, you will traverse across the Mong La Pass, and the scenic Phortse Teng which takes you on an ascending trail across the dense rhododendron, pine, and birch trees. As you reach a higher altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged, before eventually reaching the charming village of Dole.
The trail from Machhermo begins with a climb over a ridge. You can take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Today is a spectacular day as the trek takes you across the sacred lakes. You will pass along Longpongo, the first of the Gokyo Lakes, followed by the second, Taboche Tsho.
Today’s journey also takes you alongside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. Soon, you will reach the third turquoise lake, Gokyo Tsho or the Dudh Pokhari.
Today is the pinnacle of the Gokyo Lake Trek. The day begins with a pre-dawn trek to the summit of Gokyo Ri. From this incredible viewpoint, you will get rewarding sunrise views of the Himalayan panorama. Take in the 360-degree panoramic views of four of the world’s ten highest peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
After spending some time at Gokyo Ri, you will descend to Gokyo for breakfast. Later, you can explore the pristine fourth and fifth lakes – Thonak Tsho and Ngozumpa Thso.
*Note: If you still have extra energy left in you and wish to see all six lakes, you can request a customized trek that includes the more challenging hike to the sixth lake (Gyazumpa Tsho) c with your guide.
After a breathtaking exploration of the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Valley, it is time to head back to the lower altitudes. You will retrace your steps across the first and second Gokyo Lakes and leave the Ngozumpa Glacier behind. Today’s downhill trek is more leisurely and gives you enough opportunities to appreciate the stunning scenery of the Khumbu region as you follow the trails to Dole.
The downhill trek along the Himalayas continues, retracing your path back to Namche Bazaar. You will walk along the dense rhododendron and pine forests and descend to Phortse Teng before taking on a short ascent to Mong La Pass. The rest of the journey is pleasant. You will reach the bustling town of Namche Bazaar after a 5-hour journey, where you can find modern amenities and access to hot showers and a wider variety of food.
Today’s trek marks the end of trekking in the Himalayas. You will follow the steep descent from Namche Bazaar along the Dudh Koshi River. The paths lead you to villages like Monjo and Phakding. From Phakding, a gentle ascent takes you to Lukla.
The day begins with a hearty breakfast, embracing the stunning mountain views one last time before leaving the Everest region. You will leave for the airport to board an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. The flight is short but offers scenic views of the magnificent Himalayas. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Your incredible 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek concludes today. A representative from Global Adventure Trekking will pick you up 3 hours before your boarding time and help you transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport.
Porter services:
If you prefer hiring a porter to carry your extra luggage and enjoy your trek, you can hire a porter for an additional cost of USD 20 per day. The cost will cover accommodation, meals, and the daily wages of the porter. Two trekkers can share a porter and split the cost. A porter can carry up to 20/22 kg.
It is highly suggested to hire a porter from a registered trekking company; make sure they are well-equipped and insured.
Hotel Upgrade:
While most teahouses/lodges in the Gokyo Lake trek offer basic accommodations and services, you will find a comfortable room with an attached bathroom and electric blankets for an extra cost of USD 30
Global Adventure Trekking specializes in curating unforgettable trekking experiences for individuals, couples, and small groups, making it the perfect choice for family holidays. You can trek solo or with a private group, you can select your ideal date without paying extra cost. You can also choose to join a small, scheduled group trek..
The Gokyo Lake Trek cost depends on several factors. Your luxury level, preferred routes, trip extension, etc, are some of the leading factors to an increase in cost. If you choose our standard package, following our above itinerary, you will find the following facilities during the 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal:
Trekking to Gokyo Lake requires two main permits. The permits are checked at Monjo at the Sagarmatha National Park entrance.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times for the Gokyo Lake trek. You will find that the weather is suitable for the Himalayan journey, with fewer chances of rainfall and clouds. The increased visibility gives you immersive views of the stunning Himalayan peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. You can also enjoy the breathtaking view of the Gokyo Lakes.
In spring, the lower trails come to life with vibrant rhododendron and wildflower blossoms. Likewise, autumn is known for crisp skies and uninterrupted visibility. Both seasons are appropriate for taking photographs of the blue skies and magnificent mountains.
| Season | Weather Conditions |
| Monsoon (June to August) |
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| Spring (March to May) |
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| Autumn (September to November) |
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| Winter (December to February) |
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Global Adventure Trekking manages comfortable, clean, and hygienic accommodations during the 13-day Gokyo Lake trek. In Kathmandu, you will be placed in a 2-star standard hotel in the tourist hub of Thamel. You will find all modern amenities, including hot water, a shower, Wi-Fi, and other services on request.
The Himalayan adventure is a teahouse trek. You will stay in well-established lodges in lower-altitude regions like Lukla and Namche Bazaar with modern amenities. As you ascend to higher altitude regions like Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo, the accommodations are basic. However, you can still expect warm hospitality and authentic Sherpa experiences at the high-altitude teahouses.
Food and water facilities are available along the Gokyo Lake trekking route. In most teahouses, you will find simple but nourishing food. The menu typically consists of Nepali staple Dal-Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables). This is an excellent source of energy.
However, the lower region, like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, offers an extensive menu. You can find a wide range of food, including Tibetan bread, noodles, potatoes, momo, and porridge. Most teahouses here also serve international cuisines like pizza, pasta, and pancakes.
Likewise, drinking water is available along the trekking route. Teahouses sell safe, boiled water, which you can fill into your bottles. You will also find bottled water. However, to preserve the pristine environment of the Sagarmatha National Park, we strongly recommend carrying a personal reusable bottle and trekking with your water with purification tablets.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a difficult journey across the vast Himalayan terrains. Being a demanding trek, you should be physically fit and have a high level of endurance. The trek takes you to altitudes over 5,000 meters. Therefore, preparing in advance is crucial for a successful and memorable journey.
Ensure that you can walk comfortably for 5 to 7 hours daily over the rugged terrain. Also, the risks of altitude sickness are significant during this trek. You should acclimate properly and take all precautions to avoid the chances of altitude sickness.
However, this is not a technical trek and does not require mountaineering skills. If you have excellent health and stamina, you will find this journey rewarding and memorable.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a demanding journey suitable for those with a good level of endurance and stamina. Preparing for the trek is crucial to completing this difficult journey. You can engage in cardio training and hiking practice to tackle diverse terrains. Additionally, packing wisely is crucial for your comfort and safety.
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Global Adventure Trekking takes pride in being your trusted Nepal travel partner. We ensure a safe, well-paced journey with expert guides for the Gokyo Lake Trek. We have 27 years of experience in the Nepali trekking industry. Our in-depth geographical, cultural, and linguistic expertise allows us to deliver extra.
Furthermore, we focus on communal sustainability and economic development of the rural trekking routes. We provide 5% of our total income toward the welfare of these rural communities.
Gokyo Lake Trek is famous for its moderately difficult trekking route while also being recognized as one of the best alternatives for the Everest Base Camp Trek.
The highest altitude of the Gokyo Lake Trek is 5357 meters above sea level and the place is known as Gokyo Ri.
Anyone with a good physique and a strong mentality can go for this exciting trekking adventure. However, we strongly prohibit people with high blood pressure, bone issues, pregnant women, young children, and the elderly from going on this trek.
There are several attractions in the Gokyo Lake Trek like serene rivers, waterfalls, traditional villages, suspension bridges, etc. However, the most amazing attractions of this trekking route are the views of the mighty mountains, Gokyo Lakes, and the views that one gets from Gokyo Ri.
Yes, if you feel like the original itinerary does not match your preferences, you can customize the trek package as well. However, that might require some extra payment based on the customization made.
As the Gokyo Lake Trekking map is moderately difficult, harsh training is not necessary for this journey. However, we suggest trekkers start basic training and exercise a couple of months before hitting the trail.
Yes, the trekkers must obtain three different permits to go for the Gokyo Lakes Trek and they are:
Though it is not mandatory, we request the trekkers to get travel insurance for the Gokyo Lake Trek because that can help you claim in different conditions like emergency evacuation, belongings being lost, and extra stay in the trekking area.
Carry at least NPR 2000 to 3000 for each day. The extra cash covers your expenses not included in the package. This includes hot showers, charging devices, extra snacks, and tips for your guide and porters.
No, the cost for emergency rescue and helicopter evacuation is excluded from the package price. You must ensure your travel insurance policy explicitly covers high-altitude helicopter rescue services.
While both Wi-Fi and mobile services are available, they are limited and unreliable after the first few days of trekking. Expect to disconnect easily.
This Gokyo Lake Trek is a difficult trek as it takes you along the difficult terrains of the high-altitude Himalayan regions. Due to the challenges, this trek is not recommended for absolute beginners. Ensure you have a good level of fitness and prior hiking experience.
The Gokyo Lake trek is a quieter and more serene alternative to the bustling Everest Base Camp trail. Trekking the Gokyo Lakes introduces you to the region's pristine freshwater lakes, while the Everest Base Camp trek takes you to the base of the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest.
The journey typically begins with a scenic 30-minute flight from Kathmandu. However, in busier seasons, you will need to drive to Ramechhap and board a plane to Lukla. Alternatively, you can save time by taking a helicopter flight to Lukla from Kathmandu at an additional cost.
