Trip Overview
Up in the mountains, there is a gorgeous blue-turquoise glacial lake. With an image of gigantic mountains on the lake water, the scenery looks purely fictitious and mythic. Sherpa, mountains, myth, and lakes present splendid holiday moments. Gokyo Lake Trek in the Everest region of Nepal is probably the most beautiful trekking route of Khumbu. This trek offers adorable scenarios of Gokyo lakes, glaciers, and fabled mountains with hidden Sherpa cultures.
The Everest region of Nepal is the epitome of all trekking adventures. It is probably the most kept travel bucket list destination. After Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lake Trek is the most eminent trekking route in the Khumbu region of Nepal. However, you can extend the trek to Everest Base Camp as well via Chola Pass (5420m). Nepal High Trek & Expedition has probably the latest and correct itinerary of the Gokyo Valley Trek. The major reason behind this is the trekking crew members. All of our guides and porters for the Khumbu trekking are either Sherpa or locals.
Blue Turquoise Lake and Sherpa Hamlet
At an altitude of 4700 m from sea level, you can find five outstanding lakes. These lakes are listed in the Ramsar Site as well. Even if there are five lakes, the most popular one is the third lake. However, people explore all three lakes including the Gokyo Ri hiking during the trip. The lake is not only beautiful but also has religious significance. Sherpa people worship the lake every year as they believe the god resides in the lake. Interestingly all five lakes are connected underground as well. However, it is just a myth.
1st, 2nd, and 3rd Lakes are on the way to the teahouse area. However, the fourth and fifth lake is above the teahouse valley. Earlier the place was the pasture land used by the Sherpa people of Khunde and Khumjung. Nowadays, a small hamlet is there but no houses. The shores of the lake are full of teahouses.
A Mesmerizing Gokyo Ri Viewpoint in the Khumbu
Probably, Gokyo Ri Viewpoint is one of the best and most marvelous viewpoints in the Khumbu region. The highlight of the Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal is the hiking of Gokyo Ri as well. Witness either sunrise or sunset from the top of Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17575 ft). You can get the outstanding scenery of mountains as far as Mount Everest, Mount Makalu, Mount Choyou, and Mount Lhotse, and panoramic views of the stunning Himalayas. Bask in the fantastic vantage point from where you can get the view of four of the top ten mountains of the world. The panoramic view of the mountains helps trekkers forget all the journey’s hardships.
Gokyo Fifth Lake – The Place for a Unique Everest View
During the Everest Base Camp Trekking journey, trekkers get a glimpse of Mt. Everest. However, it is through a small window in between the Lhotse and Nuptse walls. But the view of Mount Everest from Fifth Lake is outstanding. Therefore, lots of people trek to Gokyo Lake for the splendid and different view of Mount Everest.
Route Overview of Gokyo Lake Trek
Almost every trekking trip in the Khumbu region starts from Lukla except for some classical treks. It is similar to Gokyo as well. Check out the Everest Base Camp Trek itinerary for more information on the route up to Kyangjuma nearby Namche Bazaar. Trekkers leave the main Everest Base Camp Trail in Kyangjuma and head to the Mongla Danda route. After the acclimatization rest in Namche Bazaar, trekkers have to stay overnight in places like Dole and Machhermo before reaching the Gokyo Valley.
Altitude Sickness, Travel Insurance & Acclimatization
Trek to Gokyo Lake is also one of the high-altitude trekking in Nepal. The highest point on this trip is 5357 m from sea level. However, overnight high altitude resting place is an altitude of 4700 m. Therefore, the trail is prone to altitude sickness. Interestingly, trekkers don’t need to worry about altitude sickness during this trek. The acclimatization rest in Namche Bazaar is enough for the trekkers to continue walking higher.
The Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal requires travel insurance. Trekkers must buy an insurance plan. The plan must include helicopter rescue, accidents, flight delays, and medical expenses.
Sherpa Culture & Diverse Forests
The trail is good for understanding the Sherpa people and the diverse forest environment of Khumbu. Trekkers start the trek from the deciduous forests belt and reach high up to the alpine forests belt. Therefore, vegetation lovers can find wonders on the trail.
As for the cultural attractions, Sherpa villages and monasteries are the highlights. There are many pagodas, Mane walls, and monasteries along the way. Moreover, a visit to the Sherpa villages offers an authentic chance to understand these intrepid mountain climbers. Understanding them in their comfort is always fascinating. Imagine yourselves interacting with the fierce mountain climbers. Well, it is a truly remarkable experience to view mountains and their conquering beast in just one single trip.
Can I go to the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake Trek?
Yes, it is possible to do Everest Base Camp Trek after the Gokyo Lake excursion. Moreover, you can buy the Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Trek package. It includes Everest Base Camp, Everest Three High Passes Trek, Chola Pass, and Gokyo Valley. Therefore, if you wish to add the base camp then it is wise to get the EBC Chola Pass Trek package.
Apart from the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley is also the focal point during the Everest Three High Passes Trek. After crossing the Renjo La Pass, trekkers can reach the Gokyo Lake area. The Khumbu Circuit Trek consists of Gokyo Valley as well. The place is at a crossroads. Therefore, you can add either adventure three-pass trek or Everest Base Camp to your itinerary.
Nepal High Trek – A reliable Trekking partner for Everest Region Travel Activities
It’s been more than a decade since the company is operating trekking in the Everest region of Nepal. Our guides and porters are from Khumbu. Therefore, we have the latest information and authentic data about mountains, people, culture, and climate. For high-altitude trekking, it is essential to have the perfect guidance and itinerary. We have the highest success rate. So, without any delay contact our travel planners. Plan your Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal with Nepal High Trek And Expedition.
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Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival TIA in Kathmandu - 1350 m then transfer to hotel - 20m
The representatives from Nepal High Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. will welcome you to Tribhuwan International Airport. Then we will take you to the hotel arranged by our company for the overnight stay. We will discuss trekking and will check the all gear.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla 2,860m and trek to Phakding village 2,640 m – 3/4 hrs.
The Gokyo Lake Trek begins with a sweeping short scenic flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport Lukla Solukhumbu District. It takes half an hour to reach at Lukla. If the weather gets clear you can see Mount Everest with the majesty Himalayas of Khumbu. We suggest you stay in the left line inside the plane and there is no seat system.
After receiving the Khumbu entrance ticket we will head to Phakding and it takes 3 to 4 hours to get there. The journey starts on a winding downhill path with a short climb passing many traditional Sherpa villages with views of stunning peaks. After a pleasant walk reach Phakding for an overnight stop near the glacier-fed Dudh Kosi (river).
Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – 7/8 hrs.
After a pleasant overnight stop in Phakding, we'll head to Namche Bazar. After breakfast, the trails go through the Dudh Kosi River, traditional Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and crossing the Sagarmatha National Park. At Monjo, we should buy the Sagarmatha national park permit and then go to Jorsale village. At Jorsale we'll have lunch there and between Jorsale and Namche not available the lunch place. After lunch, the trail goes through the bank of the Dudhkoshi River and reaches at the popular Hillary suspension bridge. After crossing the Hillary suspension bridge the trail is quite tough and gradually up to Namche Bazar. Along the trail, you can the Everest with other beautiful peaks too. The Namche Bazar is a massive Himalayan town throughout the Everest base camp trail where you can get most of the amenities too. This place is extremely beautiful to stay immersed in nature and culture.
Day 04: Acclimatization Day ( Hike to Hotel Everest View with Khumjung Village) - 5 Hrs
When you cross above the 35oo meters acclimatization is very crucial to adjust on high altitude. So today after breakfast we'll hike up to Hotel Everest View and Khumjun Village. You must climb around 400 meters to reach Hotel Everest View and it's the best viewpoint to see the numerous peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Nupte, Amadablam, Thamserku, Khangtenga, Tauche, and mesmerizing view too. The Khumjun village is one of the beautiful and massive authentic villages where you can see the local Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, Hillary school, and various landscapes.
Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazar to Dole 4,110 m – 6/7 hrs.
After a pleasant stop at Namche Bazaar our journey to Dole. The trail leads to the gentle winding trail with eye-catching views as the walk leads to Shanasa village. From this spot, our route diverts away from the main Namche-Everest base camp trail towards quiet areas towards Gokyo Lake. The path climbs with a steep climb to reach a Mong 3,973 meters with amazing views and then a downhill walk to Dudh Kosi River at Phortse Thanghka for lunch.
After Phortse Thanga, continue to walk to Dole as the trail climbs steeply out of the valley through a patch of rhododendron forest with landscape. Where you see the juniper and conifer trees. In the springtime, this place will be magic with wildflowers in full bloom. This path passes summer Yak pastures. The trek leads past Tongba and Gyele villages to reach at Dole with a super view of Khumbila and Tawache 6,542m.
Day 06: Trek from Dole to Machhermo 4,470 m - 6/7 hrs.
Morning walk from Dole climbs along the side of the beautiful valley with stunning peaks. Where the rhododendron forest stops, giving way to smaller bushes of juniper as you gain altitude slowly. Finally, the walk leads on the level path for an hour to Lhabarma Kharka and Luza at 4,390 m. After that skirting around a ridge downhill to Macherma village. Arriving at Machhermo for lunch and overnight stop with time in the afternoon for a short walk or just relax. You can walk around the beautiful valley in the Evening.
Day 07: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo 4,790m - 4/5 hrs.
From this small settlement, our walks continue to Gokyo 3rd Lake, following a scenic path to Pangka small area and then slightly ascending to Gokyo Lakes. You will go through the glacial-fed rivers which flow from Ngozumba Glacier of high world 6th highest Cho-Oyu and other adjoining peaks.
The walk leads to a climb by the side of a glacier, passing the first lake and the second lake. As well as crossing the path to reach the third lake known as Dudh Pokhari or Gokyo Lake a summer settlement with fantastic views of Mt. Cho Oyo and Gyachung Kang that reflects on the emerald green waters of Gokyo Lake.
Day 08: Morning hike to Gokyo Ri - 1 Hrs (5357 m) then back to down Dole -4010 m (6/7 Hrs)
In the early morning hike uphill to Gokyo Ri viewpoint and it the best vantage place to see the world's eight thousand meters mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. Besides this mountain, you can explore the numerous peaks, gokyo lakes, and Ngozumpa glacier with breathtaking views too
After a wonderful stop at Gokyo Ri, head downhill to Gokyo for breakfast then back to down 5 to 6 hours. The trail is completely downhill with beautiful views of peaks.
Day 09: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazar 3,440 m – 6/7 hrs.
Today we're going downhill to Namche Bazar. The trail is mostly downhill and will go through the Mongla Danda, Kyanjuma then will reach Namche Bazar. Yo can walk around the majesty mountains with a thrilling landscape and local ethnic culture too. An overnight stay at Namche and you can visit the local bars in Namche.
Day 10: Trek from Namche Bazar to Lukla (2860 m) - 7/8 Hours
After an enjoyable time in Namche Bazar, we will back to Lukla through the separate villages of Sherpa. Today you must walk 17km from Namche to reach Lukla and it takes 7 - 8 hours. We will be coming back to Lukla through the Hillary Suspension Bridge, Sagarmatha National Park, and Dudhkoshi River. We will have lunch on the way to Phakding or somewhere in a suitable place. At the last overnight stop within the Everest region, after lunch free and celebrate dinner with fellow members, staff, and guides.
Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
If the weather gets clear at Lukla airport we will back to Kathmandu by flight and it will take half an hour. However, you must prepare mentally for unseen flight cancellation in Luka due to bad weather.
Day 12: Final International Departure
Your last day in Nepal, the amazing country of Himalayan wonders with Nepal High Trek. As per your flight time leaving to airport before 3 hours. Our crew will drop you at the airport. We hope you had a wonderful trip to Nepal with us and can not wait for the next adventure.
- All ground transportation.
- Meals During Trek: (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
- Two-night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three cups of tea during the trek.
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit.
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Ticket.
- Domestic Flight Ticket From Kathmandu to Lukla / Kathmandu.
- Good Accommodation on the trek.
- Fresh fruit during the trek
- NHTE’S Dawn jacket, sleeping bag & duffle bag. (If required )
- An experienced, expert, helpful and friendly Guide and Their well-paid Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation, and Insurance for the Guide.
- One strong porterfor each two clients (No porter for solo traveler)
- An arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company.
- Medical kit bag.
Cost Exclude:
- Your Travel insurance.
- All the Food in Kathmandu. Also in the case of early return from the mountain (due to any reason) then the scheduled Itinerary.
- All the expenses in the mountain over than scheduled itinerary (due to strike, delay, or canceled flight)
- Extra night Hotel in Kathmandu if arrive early or late departure than scheduled Itinerary.
- All the Bar bills and personal expenses (phone call, laundry service, battery recharge, a bottle of water, hot water, shower.
- Tips for the guide and porter.
Gokyo Lake Trek Route Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gokyo Lake Trek is very tough for beginner travelers ?
The Gokyo Valley Trek is a moderate trekking route in the Everest region and it requires a good walking pace. However, most trekkers easily accomplish the journey without hassle. We suggest you all do some exercise before to go Gokyo lake and you will reach a maximum height of 5367 meters at Gokyo Viewpoint.
How many days does take to complete this trek ?
Generally, the Gokyo Lake Trek can be completed within 10 days from Kathmandu but the trip itinerary can be amended as per your preference plan, holiday length, and desire. We prefer 10 days trip program from Kathmandu to Kathmandu including one day acclimatize in Namche.
Do i need travel insurance for this trip ?
Wherever you traveling around the world travel insurance is mandatory but this trip requires high-altitude travel insurance to cover an emergency evacuation. If you buy travel insurance you can travel without hassle and the journey will be memorable too.
What is the altitude we will reach throughout the trip ?
Throughout the journey, you'll reach a maximum height of 5367 meters at Gokyo Ri Viewpoint. It's one of the best viewpoints to explore the world's iconic mountains like Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse. Besides these peaks you'll extremely soak into the massive glaciers, gokyo lakes with the giant Khumbu Himalayas. Also, everybody must sleep at 4800 at Gokyo Lake and it will be the highest elevation sleep during the trek.
What types of accommodation are available along the trail ?
For a long time in the Everest region, the accommodation is getting much better and you will get good accommodation along the trail. The accommodation depends on your budget and you can choose as per your choice. A per night accommodation charge would be $10 to 250 along the trail and we assure you that you will get better accommodation than other trekking routes in Nepal.
What kind of cuisine get during the trek?
Regarding the cuisines throughout the trip, you can choose whatever you like. The local guest houses have various meal items like Italian, Chinese, Western, and local Nepali cuisines too. We prefer to taste local cuisines like Sherpa stew, Dalbhat, Aalu Roti, and local hygienic soups too.
How do I get there?
In the Everest region, the major transportation is flight but if you have ample time you can drive to near the Surkhe. More than 90% of trekkers go to Gokyo Lake via flight and you can take a short flight to Tenzing Hillare airport Lukla. We suggest you take both way flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and Kathmandu.
Is there mobile network and WIFI access ?
Besides the some places you can get mobile network access during the trek. The NTC and NCELL network access is available till Dole then any kind of network access is null. However, you can use paying wifi service at each tea house, and 1GB wifi costs 700 rupees.
When do you recommend to go Gokyo Lake?
Nepal is a landlocked country and there are four major seasons such as winter, spring, monsoon and autumn. Among these seasons spring and autumn seasons are the best time to do any activities in Nepal. However, March is a more favorable time to do trekking, climbing, and other activities too. Usually, spring season begins from March to May and autumn begins from September to November. In this season weather will remain stable and comfortable temperatures too. If you're willing to do the treks or climbing in Nepal we would highly recommend the spring and autumn seasons.
Nepal High Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. 
