Gokyo Village Gokyo Lake Trek
Dzong La Village Gokyo Lake Trek
Gokyo Lake

Gokyo Lake Trek - 12 Days

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11 reviews in Google Reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
12 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4,750m (15,583 ft)
Starts
Lukla
Ends
Lukla
Best Time
Spring and Autumn

The Gokyo Lake trek ranks as the second most favored trekking spot in the Khumbu area. The views of Mt. Everest and Ngozumoa Glacier from Gokyo Lake are astonishing in their beauty. It shows the most beautiful part of the Everest Region with excellent views of the highest mountains in the world. Although the itinerary does not include Everest Base Camp it is worth the trek as it offers you stunning lakes throughout the journey. Gokyo Lake trek presents wonderful landscapes with scenes of peaks like Everest and other high mountains.

Highlights

  • Witness the stunning scenery of the Himalayas, including famous peaks such as Mount Everest, Lhotse and Makalu.
  • Explore the magnificent Gokyo Lakes, a collection of Oceanic-blue lakes located in the valley providing tranquil and scenic views.
  • Discover the Ngazumpa Glacier which is one of the biggest glaciers in the Himalayas.
  • Explore the vibrant culture and customs of the Sherpa community.
  • Discover wildlife native such as Himalayan Tahr, and Musk deer with different varieties of birds.
  • Trek to Gokyo Ri for stunning panoramic vistas of the Everest and nearby Himalayan range.
  • Explore the old Buddhist monasteries and discover the spiritual history of this area.
  • Explore different types of terrain, such as green valleys, high mountain pastures, and challenging paths.
  • Witness the vibrant sight of colorful Buddhist prayer flags.

The most important part of the Gokyo Lake trek is the peak called Gokyo Ri, situated at an altitude of 5340 M above sea level. The viewpoint gives a clear view of Everest and the close by peaks with a stunning lake known as Ngozumpa Glacier. Gokyo Lake Trekking takes you through the land inhabited by the famous Sherpa folks who are famous mountaineers. In the Gokyo Lake itinerary, you get a chance to observe the lifestyle of the Sherpas along with their Buddhist monasteries. You will also get to know this region's natural world with rare alpine creatures, the snow leopard, and maybe even habitats of yeti inside the Himalayas.

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is short however exciting, taking about 30 minutes with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Lukla's airport also called as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, has a challenging runway with the flight being adventurous in itself and is a vital part of the trek to the Gokyo Lake. During the trek, you'll pass Buddhist monasteries and get breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

We will stop at the village of Namche Bazaar for rest days, allowing exploration of the area and acclimatization during the trek. After the climb of Gokyo Ri (5,483 m), we will leisurely descend back to Namche and Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu. As you explore the heartland of the villages, you will be staying at a tea house and immersing yourself in the region's charm. The opportunity enables you to observe the beautiful scenery and diverse cultures of the Sherpas.

Major visiting attractions of the Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lake trek is one of the most scenic trekking destinations in the Everest region of Nepal, which offers you magnificent views of lakes and surrounding mountains with rich cultural experiences. Some of the major attractions of the Gokyo Lake Trek are mentioned below.

  • Lukla: During the journey to Gokyo Lake, you will be having a scenic flight from Kathmandu. Lukla is considered to be one of the most dangerous airports in the world as the runway of the Tenzing-Hillary Airport is shorter and located in between the hills. However, the flight offers you dazzling views of various peaks and mountains.
  • Phakding: Phakding is the place where you get a chance to experience the Sherpa culture and tradition. This place is mostly populated with Sherpa community people where accommodations provided to you are managed by them. It is a picturesque village where you get to see stunning views of mountains along which the Dudh Koshi River passes and various ancient monasteries.
  • Namche Bazaar: The Namche Bazaar is also known as the ‘Gateway of Everest’ where trekkers acclimatize and explore the areas. Namche is mainly famous for its bustling market town where you get a variety of options of cafes, spas, and shops. As you reach Namche, you get panoramic views of mountains like Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse.
  • Gokyo Valley and Lakes: The major highlight of the trek is to visit the Gokyo Valley and Lakes which is recognized to be the series of five-highest altitude glacier lakes. This place offers you awe-inspiring views of mountains like Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.
  • Gokyo Ri: One of the main viewpoints of the Gokyo Lake Trek, is a visit to Gokyo Ri which provides you with 360-degree panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the entire Gokyo valley including the Ngozumpa Glacier.
  • Sherpa Culture and Villages: The route to Gokyo Lake navigates through Sherpa settlement areas where you can interact with the locals and know more about their culture and traditions.

Gokyo Lake Trek - 12 Days Itinerary

Start Point: Lukla
End Point: Lukla
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Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll go through your visa and immigration process. After completing the visa process, you meet your trekking agency team representative at the airport and be transferred to your hotel. Check into your hotel and use this time to rest and prepare yourself for the adventurous journey. Kathmandu also known as the city of a thousand temples offers you a unique blend of culture and history making an exciting starting point for your trekking journey.

Meals: breakfast providedAccommodation: Hotel

We will depart the hotel early because the flight to Lukla is mostly scheduled for the morning. While flying you can see breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain ranges from the window. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport you will begin your short trek to Pkakding. The hike is around 3-4 hours covering around 6.2 kilometers which usually goes next to Dudh Koshi River, passing through suspension bridges. Upon, reaching Phakding you will be staying at a tea house and spending your time with the locals.

Max Altitude: 2,840 M (9,317 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

After an early morning breakfast at Phakding, you’ll be heading towards Namche Bazar which takes about 6-7 hours, covering a distance of 10-11 kilometers. Your trek starts alongside the Dudh Koshi River with several suspension bridges. The trail to Namche gets steeper as there is an increase in elevation approximately 3,440M above sea level. Namche Bazar is a vibrant village of the Sherpas and the best place to acclimatize, providing you with breathtaking views of the mountain peaks.

Max Altitude: 3,440 M (11,286 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

Taking a break in Namche is important to acclimatize yourself to the higher altitude. On this day, you can trek to Everest View Hotel for the amazing panoramic views of the mountain peaks. You also get a chance to witness the views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamseku, etc during the trek. Namche Bazar is the biggest area in Khumbu District where there are more Sherpas community people. You also can visit Khumjung Monastery located in Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality of the Solukhumbu District. Spending your day at Namche can also help you to decrease the chances of altitude sickness.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

You’ll be leaving Namche Bazar with a gradual ascending through lush forest and suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. It gives you magnificent vistas of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam with the picturesque landscape of terraced fields and pine forest. Dole is a charming village providing you peaceful environment with stunning views of the mountains. It is our final destination and after reaching there you will be accommodated in a nearby tea house to relax and have your dinner.

Max Altitude: 4,040M (13,254 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The trek from Dole to Machhermo is a popular alternative to the Gokyo Lake in the Khumbu Region of Nepal. The trek generally takes 5-6 hours to cover a total distance of 6.2 kilometers taking you through lush forest and scenic views of the peaks. Machhermo, a small Sherpa village serves as a resting place with few accommodations available for the trekkers. With the stunning mountain views, you can also encounter picturesque yak graze during the summer months. The pathway guides you to Luja Valley ultimately leading you to charming Machhermo village.

Max Altitude: 4,470 M (14,665 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

Traveling from Machhermo to Gokyo is a thrilling experience for trekkers providing some scenery views along the way. While climbing to Gokyo, you will follow a path that runs along the side of Ngozumpa Glacier. The trail is mostly easier, although there are a few steep parts to be aware of during the hike. During the trek, you can see beautiful breathtaking views of nearby mountains like Cho Oyu and Everest as well as the stunning sights of the Gokyo Lake. The scenery includes a combination of alpine meadows and glacier sceneries creating a great experience during the trek.

Max Altitude: 4,750 M (15,583 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri provides an enriching climb to some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Khumbu Region. The trail is steep and rocky making the trek difficult with every step but good hiking boots and hiking poles can make your journey more easier and comfortable. Upon reaching Gokyo Ri, you can witness the most breathtaking Himalayas vistas, including the views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After enjoying the mesmerizing views, you will descend back to Gokyo as the trail will be less challenging but still difficult because of the rugged and steep ground. You’re suggested to go slowly while descending to prevent any kind of accidents. A well-deserved lunch will be waiting for you at Gokyo and will be heading towards Machhermo as it will be the final stop for you.

Max Altitude: 5,357 M (17,574 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey from Machhermo to Namche offers you diverse terrain with rocky and steep slopes. The path is generally well-maintained but you should be prepared for the ascend and descend steep throughout the journey. The trek may be demanding, but the breathtaking views of the Himalayas make the trek worth it. After, reaching Namche you’ll be accommodated with a tea house offering you a good place to rest and engage with the locals. The hike will provide you with an unforgettable experience, with stunning views of the Himalayas and a sense of achievement for completing the trek creating unforgettable memories.

Max Altitude: 3,440 M (11,286 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The journey from Namche to Lukla is a fulfilling and feasible way to end your trek to Gokyo Lake. The descent trek offers you a sense of accomplishment and relief from the challenging climbing routes making your journey enjoyable and easier. The route from Namche to Lukla will provide you with a variety of terrain with mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. While traveling towards Lukla, you will notice the change in landscape from high-altitude surroundings to lower-altitude landscapes along with the small villages. The tea house and lodges along the route provide you with basic facilities, giving you a final chance to experience local culture and tradition.

Max Altitude: 2,860 M (9,383 ft)Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Tea house

The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu changes locations from scenic mountains to bustling cities. The tiny aircraft takes off from the rugged and tranquil beauty of Lukla with the stunning views of Himalayas seen from your windows. Upon, landing in Kathmandu, you’ll experience a busy city with more people. It is a short flight from Lukla to Kathmandu allowing you to experience the contrast between city life and mountain living. Traveling from Lukla to Kathmandu provides a special opportunity, mainly for those hikers who have not explored the Himalayas.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner providedAccommodation: Hotel

As you prepare to leave Kathmandu after your trek, the representatives of our team will be there to help you reach the Tribhuwan International Airport via private bus ensuring that you will reach on time. Utilize your free time at the airport exploring while enjoying your snacks. Think about your journey to Gokyo Lake and savor your last moments in Kathmandu.

The team of High Camp Adventure will be delighted to receive your feedback in order to make any required improvements and would greatly appreciate it. This will help enhance our facilities and preparations for your next journey with our team. We wish you a safe trip and look forward to seeing you again!

Cost Details

Includes

  • Transportation to and from Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA)
  • 2 /3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Lodging in a tea house while trekking
  • Cost for permits and paperwork
  • Three-time meals during the trek
  • Certified and authorized guide approved by the government, accompanied by a porter
  • Taxes imposed by the government authorities
  • Essential equipment including a sleeping bag, hiking pole and a first aid kit
  • Transportation according to your itinerary including your flight departure
  • Farewell dinner at Kathmandu before your departure

NOTE:Trekkers wanting to upgrade their accommodations in Kathmandu can inform us earlier to make some necessary arrangements, but will cost you an extra.

Excludes

  • Flight ticket for abroad from Nepal
  • Lunch and dinner options in Kathmandu (excluding breakfast)
  • Expenses like laundry, phone bills, spa treatment, drinks and snacks
  • Gears for individual use
  • Tips for Guides and Porters
  • Cost for utilizing hot showers at the tea house and charging for electronic devices
  • Cancellation and unexpected circumstances such as weather delays, political instability, sickness, etc.

Essential Information

Itinerary disclaimer

Kindly note that the given itinerary may be altered because of unexpected weather, natural occurrences, or any uncontrollable factors. Although we stick to the planned itinerary, you need to make some adjustments for the safety and comfort of every trekker. We are grateful for your understanding and flexibility as we offer you a positive and enjoyable experience throughout the journey. In case, of any important modifications, the guide will inform you and do his best to provide you with alternative options for your convenience. Before you leave for the trek, make sure to look for any new information to ensure a positive and enjoyable trip.

Airport Pickup and drop

For your comfort and convenience, our trekking company gives a convenient airport pickup and drop service. A staff member of the team will meet you at the airport and help you with your belongings. You will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. This helps us to ensure your journey goes smoothly, giving you extra assistance along the way. This service comes with our trek package so you can relax and concentrate on your journey without any worries.

Safety and Security

The safety and security of our trekkers during the trek is our main concern. So, we implement comprehensive safety measures to ensure your well-being and provide reassurance as you start your journey. Through the implementation of these comprehensive safety measures, our goal is to offer a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. If you have any particular concerns or requirements, please let us know in advance so we can help you with them. Our top priority is ensuring your safety and security.

Gokyo Lake Trek packing list

While heading for the Gokyo Lake trek, packing may be the most difficult part, as you have to take care of all your personal requirements throughout the journey. Here is a detailed packing checklist that includes everything necessary for a secure and enjoyable trip for you:

  1. Base layer, underwear, lightweight trekking shirts and thermal layer
  2. Trekking pants that are lightweight and dry easily.
  3. Waterproof and windproof jacket with waterproof pants
  4. Waterproof trekking boots that provide excellent ankle support
  5. Sturdy and waterproof backpack for hiking with waterproof cover
  6. Hats and sunglasses with UV protecting
  7. Hiking sticks are mainly recommended for stability
  8. Sleeping bags for colder temperatures with extra warmth sleeping bag liner
  9. Multiple sets of hiking socks with insulated gloves that are preferably waterproof
  10. Maps, sunscreen, medicines, first aid kit, pocket torch

Accommodations and Meals

Our main target is to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience, with quality accommodations and meals to elevate your hiking experience. Accommodations provided to you during the journey will be a teahouse that provides simple but comfortable living with hygienic beds and a shared washroom. The tea houses are perfectly placed along the trekking path and have been selected based on safety, cleanliness, and comfort. Meals provided by tea houses include breakfast, lunch, and dinner made from fresh local ingredients. You can also try a variety of dishes including the local ones.

Best time to trek

The best time to Trek the Gokyo Lake is during the time of spring (before the monsoon) and in the autumn (after the monsoon). Both these seasons are ideal to trek if you’re planning to go during this time. During this time the weather is good and gives a better trekking experience.

  • Spring (March to May): During, this time the temperature is moderate with stable weather conditions. You can see clear skies with stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and blooming flora in the lower altitude. At the time of Spring, you will find less crowd in comparison to Autumn which gives you a good opportunity to explore more and adjust to the altitude.
  • Autumn ( September to November): At the time of Autumn, the trek provides you with favorable weather conditions, safety, and a great trekking experience throughout the entire journey. During the daytime, the temperature is moderate while during the night the temperature is colder at higher altitudes. You can see clear weather offering you excellent visibility during your journey. The trekkers can witness the spectacular mountain views which makes the trek more enjoyable.
  • Monsoon (June to August): Making the journey during the time of Monsoon which lies in June to August is not recommended due to the high chances of frequent rainfall and bad trail conditions. During this time, there is a chance of route blockage due to landslides. Therefore, choose your trekking seasons wisely and determine the challenges and obstacles you need to face.
  • Winter (December to February): Winter is mostly not regarded to be the best time to trek, however, trekkers make their way during such time to witness the stunning views of ice-capped mountains and magnificent landscapes. Trekking is possible during winter, although, you have to face a bit more demanding conditions.

Note:During the time of Monsoon and Winter the trek is not recommended due to heavy rains which may lead to natural disasters. However, the trek is possible in all seasons but is generally less favorable in comparison to Spring and Autumn.

Permits and Paperwork

To trek in the Solukhumbu District you must have a Sagarmatha National Park Permit which is a crucial document required to reach Gokyo Lake. This permit ensures that the hikers follow the rules and regulations in the Conservation Area. To obtain this permit, you can apply at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or at the main entrance to the park in Monjo. To apply for this permit you need a passport copy and make a payment of the fee which helps for the park management and conservation. It is crucial to have the permit as there are various checkpoints throughout the trek. This permit helps you with a legal hiking adventure in the Solukhumbu Region of Nepal.

Travel Insurance

Having travel insurance before starting the trek is essential as it provides you coverage for various unexpected incidents and emergencies. It protects you from medical emergencies such as hospital costs and necessary treatment while trekking and during critical conditions using a helicopter may cost you extra if you don’t have insurance. However, travel insurance is not mandatory for the Gokyo Lake trek, but is highly recommended for your safety from unplanned events.

Challenges and Considerations

Altitude sickness

During the trek to higher elevations, the major problem for most of the trekkers is altitude sickness. The Gokyo Lake trek in Nepal offers you breathtaking views and memorable adventures but comes with several challenges and considerations needed throughout the trek.

  • Symptoms: headache, Nausea and Vomiting, Dizziness, Fatigue, Loss of appetite, swelling, difficulty in walking, rapid heartbeat,
  • Preventive measures: acclimatization day, drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals, ascend slowly, avoid alcohol and caffeine, physical fitness and preparation.

Weather conditions

Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable during the trek. So, hikers should be ready to face the challenges as they may encounter snow, rain and strong wind throughout the trek during unfavorable seasons. During the trek, the temperature can also fluctuate at higher elevations for this reason check the weather forecast regularly. As a result of this, make sure to choose your trek season wisely for a safe and enjoyable trek.

Steep and rugged terrain

The trek to Gokyo Lake passes through a diverse landscape that includes glacial moraines and rocky paths making the trek challenging for the trekkers. Hikers should climb up steep with rocky trails full of rough and uneven ground including sharp inclines and bumpy surfaces. Trekkers should be ready for the trek which physically demanding along with adventure.

Health and hygiene

During the trek to higher elevations maintaining your health and hygiene can be challenging for you as you are not provided with high sanitation facilities. However, High Camp Adventure will try its best to provide you with high-quality facilities that can help you maintain your hygiene with fresh and healthy foods for your body during the trek.

Cultural sensitivity

During your journey, you need to understand and respect the diverse background values of people from different cultures. Before taking pictures of the people living in those regions make sure to ask for permission. Always be polite with them.

Gokyo Lake Trek - 12 Days FAQs

Gokyo Lake is located in the Solukhumbu District of the Sagarmatha Zone in the northeastern part of Nepal. Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,750 M above sea level within the Sagarmatha National Park.

The Gokyo Lake trek in Nepal is well-known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas providing you with a less crowded experience compared to Everest Base Camp. Some of the main attractions of this place are the beautiful turquoise lake, panoramic views of the Gokyo Ri, and a chance to experience Sherpa culture. Gokyo Lake offers you a blend of natural beauty, and cultural heritage with a peaceful trekking experience.

Mountain views: Mount Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyo, Lhotse, Nuptse and Pumori

The Gokyo Lake trek is moderately challenging with sufficient physical and mental fitness. The journey takes around 11-12 days with challenging climbs, rocky trails, and tough terrain making it difficult with every step for the trekkers. Weather conditions can be a major problem with low temperatures during the trek. Having the right equipment, gear with a proper guide can enhance your trekking experience making your journey full of unforgettable memories. Moreover, high altitudes can be a major problem for trekkers having altitude sickness so, let your body acclimatize.

It is possible to trek Gokyo Lake independently however hiring a guide is highly recommended for several reasons. Guides help you navigate especially during unfavorable weather conditions making sure you are safe and secure. They also help you with permit permission and give you expertise in the culture and geography of Nepal. Overall, guides enhance your safety, comfort, and overall experience throughout the journey.

On the Gokyo Lake trek, most of the accommodations and meals are arranged in a tea house with basic facilities. Meals provided during the trek at a tea house include a wide range of local dishes like Dal Bhat, lentils, Chapati, Momo, noodles, and soup. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are also available if needed but we recommend not to consume meat during the trek because it might lead you to digestive problems. Overall, the meals and accommodations are basic, they are generally sufficient for a trekking experience. But quality and availability of meals and accommodations can vary at higher altitudes.

Note: Private rooms are also available during the trek but at an extra cost.

Yes, communication is available during the trek. Most of the tea houses provide you with internet but at higher altitudes, you need to pay an extra cost for it. NTC and Ncell sim cards also provide you with a network that helps you during the trek. However, don’t expect it to be fast because the higher you trek the slower the network gets.

ATMs are not available along your trekking routes because of the remote locations. However, some of the tea houses do accept credit cards but it’s better to pay through cash. You can withdraw or exchange cash in Kathmandu before starting your journey which makes your trekking journey more enjoyable.

Yes, you can charge your electronic devices during the trek. Most of the Tea houses provide you with electricity or solar power but may cost you to charge your device depending on the accommodations you’re staying in. However, it is better to carry a power bank with you to charge your device.

During the trek average walking distance is around 5 to 8 hours depending on the weather conditions and trekking route. We cover a total distance of 9-13 kilometers (6 to 8 miles) per day.

Having previous trekking experience is not necessary for the Gokyo Lake trek. However, it can be beneficial if you have because it can help to acclimatize quickly. Beginner trekkers mainly should focus on their physical fitness and hiring a guide can make your journey more comfortable and safe during a trek. So, beginner trekkers without any experience can trek with proper preparations and precautions throughout the trek.

basic medical facilities are provided to you during the trek in case of an emergency in higher elevations. The team will provide you with first aid kid and in the worst conditions discuss your health condition with your guide. In case of an emergency, you will be evacuated via helicopter to Kathmandu. So, it is recommended to get your travel insurance done that covers all medical emergencies.

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