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Gokyo Lake Trekking

Gokyo Lake Trekking

Overview And Highlights

TRIP FACTS

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Accommodation Tea House
Max Altitude Gokyo-Ri 5,357 m
Best Season Spring /Autumn
Trip Duration 13 Days
Trip Grade Adventurous.
Meals All inclusive

The Gokyo Lake Trek serves as an alternative to the classic journey to Everest Base Camp, still granting trekkers breathtaking views of Everest and nights in the renowned town of Namche Bazaar, which serves as the entry point to the Khumbu Region.

The path to the Gokyo Lakes is less crowded but allows trekkers to gain insight into local village life, offering impressive vistas of icy rivers, rocky glacier remnants, snow-covered mountains, and, naturally, the sparkling blue waters of Gokyo Lakes.

The Gokyo Lakes consist of six bodies of water, positioned at elevations ranging from 4,700 to 5,000 meters in the Gokyo Valley, a part of Sagarmatha National Park.

These lakes are recognized as the world's highest freshwater lake system and have been designated as a Ramsar site, holding significant value for both Hindus and Buddhists. To underscore the area's beauty and significance, Lonely Planet affirms that the Gokyo Valley stands out as the most stunning locale in the Khumbu.

By allocating an additional day in the Gokyo Valley, you can explore the fifth and sixth lakes nestled in a high alpine bowl at the base of Cho Oyu, the world's sixth-highest peak.

Anticipate approximately five hours of daily walking, with a notable ascent to Gokyo RI (5,357 meters) offering panoramic vistas of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. The largest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa, along with ice formations, will also captivate your gaze. If five hours of daily walking is not feasible for you, but you still desire to savor the unspoiled charm of Gokyo Lake, contemplate a helicopter tour.

Prior to embarking on the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Valley adventures, spending time in Namche Bazaar presents the opportunity to trek to nearby Khumjung Village, where you can visit the school established by Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the first individuals, along with Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, to successfully summit Mount Everest.

Since then, numerous climbing expeditions and countless trekkers have transformed Namche Bazaar into a lively, bustling market town where you can exchange trekking anecdotes with fellow adventurers from different groups.

Highlights of Gokyo Lake Trek 

  • Witness the collection of high altitude Lakes in Gokyo generated by  tumbling glaciers and high peaks
  • Fascinating hike along Ngozumpa Glacier – the largest glacier in the Himalaya.
  • Ignoring the crowded Everest trail but enjoying the great views.
  • Climbing popular Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for majestic views of 4 of 6 highest peaks – Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho Oyu & Makalu.
  • Visiting popular and sacred village of Khumbu – Namche, Tengboche and Khumjung.
  • Close peek to mountain legends – Sherpa’s life and culture.

Best Time For Gokyo Lake Trek

Spring ( March to May)

  • Spring gives superv visibility with clear skies and minimalcloudiness. This season provides breathtaking mountain view and is ideal for photography. this time forest are in full bloom with rhododenderon flowers.While trekking,You may also spot variety of bird species and wildlife . In the lower region daytime temperature range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while night time temperature can dip to aproximately -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 50°F) in higher elevations.

Summer( June to August)

  • The monsoon season is known for its heavy rainfall, cloudy conditon, and reduce visibility.Hiking during the monsoon season can be difficult dur to muddy path, leeches and the danger of landslide.   
  • Benifits:   The lush scenery are at their greenest during this season, the trails are less congested. It offers a chance to enjoy the area in a quieter and more peaceful enviroment. In lower areas, days are 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and nights are mild. Higher altitudes can be even warmer.

Autum (september to November)

  • Clear skies and excellent visibility offer stunning views of Himalaya peaks.it's the best season for mountain photography.  Autumn coincides with various Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, providing opportunities to immerse in local culture.Trails are dry, making for comfortable and stable trekking conditions. Lower altitudes have daytime temperatures of 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while higher elevations range from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F).

Winter ( December to February)

  • In winter, it gets cold and dry, which means you can see the mountains really well because the skies are usually clear. It's a peaceful time for trekking with fewer people on the trails. The stunning snowy scenery and beautiful mountain views are the best parts of this season.In lower regions, daytime temps range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but higher up

Equipments

The next details will provide you with a basic understanding of what you should carry for the trek. It's crucial not to overlook the necessary items, as they will impact your comfort and safety during the hike. It's just as vital not to weigh yourself down with unnecessary gear during the trek.

  • A pair of half-golves
  • A pair of Woolen shocks
  • A wool jacket or pullover, Water and Windproof shell jackets,
    long sleeve t-shirts
  • Windproof and Waterproof Trousers (warmer), Comfortable trekking pants.
  • Waterproof Trekking Boots/  Pair of sandals
  • First Aid kits and Medicine
  • Backpack with rain cover
  • Water Bottle
  • Headlamp or torch
  • Sunscreen / Sunglasses / Sunhat
  • Sleeping bag 
  • Trekking Poles
  • Chapstick
  • Camera & Batteries
  • Power adapter and chargers
  • Travel Towel
  • Toiletries

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Morning transfer to domestic airport as per your flight time for short panoramic flight to land at Lukla, getting into a smaller aircraft (Twin Otter or Dornier) with 30 minutes on air with great views of Himalayan peaks includes Mt. Everest.

On reaching at Lukla on its unique airstrip known as Tenzing - Hillary airport, from here a slow start with few hours of walks downhill passing many Sherpa farm villages and well tended crops and vegetable fields and terraces with views of Kwangde and Kusum Khanguru peaks.

After 3-4 hours on first day walks reaching our overnight stop in a nice lodge at Phakding, transfer into your rooms with sound of glacial Dudh Kosi River nearby.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2640

Today a long day to reach Namche Bazaar, starting with gradual walk following the river upstream and crossing few bridges to reach at Sagarmatha National Park entrance near Monjo village.

Sagarmatha for Everest in Nepalese and Sherpa calls Chomolungma in both languages means 'Great Mother' from here a pleasant walk on river bed and then climb for few hours into forested trail with views of snow capped peaks, as the walk reaches you at exciting town and village at Namche Bazaar.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3440

A rest and a free day at Namche Bazaar for proper and necessary acclimatization at this great height of above 3,440 m high before heading higher ground, at Namche spend the day with scenic hike around and browsing the streets and shops, Namche holds a colorful and busy Saturday Market every week.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3440

After an enjoyable time with res days at Namche Bazaar, morning starts with uphill for short time and then walking on gradual winding path to Shanasa village.

From here our route diverts away from main Everest base camp trail heading with climb on quiet trails uphill towards Gokyo Lake.

As climbs starts on steep up to Mong small village at 3,973 m high, located on a high ridge facing views of surrounding snow capped mountain views, from here downhill to Dudh Kosi River to reach at Phortse Thanghka for lunch.

Afternoon walk from Phortse, leads to a gradual uphill to Dole, where trail climbs steeply out of the valley through a patch of rhododendron, juniper and conifers trees.

Walking around Yak pastures and then past Tongba and Gyele villages to reach at Dole with super view of holy Khumbila peaks and Tawache 6,542m. At Dole for overnight stop in a nice cozy lodge after a good walks of six hours.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
4200

Morning walk from Dole with a climb along a side of the valley, where rhododendron forest fades for small bushes of juniper, walk gains altitude slowly.

Walking then on level path for an hour to Lhabarma Kharka and Luza at 4,390 m high and then skirting around a ridge walking downhill to reach at Machherma village.

At Machherma for lunch and overnight stop with time in the afternoon for short hike or just relax and enjoy the views.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
4470

From Machherma, our journey continue to reach at third Lake of Gokyo, walk follows a scenic path to Pangka, a small area and then following one of the glacial fed rivers which flows from Ngozumba Glacier and Mt. Cho-Oyu.

Walk leads to a climb by the side of a glacier, passing at first Lake and then second Lake, to reach third biggest Lake called Dudh Pokhari or Gokyo Lake.

Around Gokyo Lake, with many good lodges facing grand view of the Lake with world's 6th highest Mt. Cho-Oyu and other range of peaks.

Gokyo valley originally a summer settlement and Yak grazing pasture offering fabulous views of Mt. Cho Oyo and Gyachung Kang that reflects on its emerald colored Gokyo Lake.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
4790

Early morning hike up to Gokyo-Ri, a scenic hill top at 5,357m for wide panorama facing views of Mt. Cho Oyo, Gyachung Kang, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, Taweche and far as to
Mt. Makalu towards east.

After a grand view from Gokyo-Ri, descend back to Gokyo for breakfast and lunch with rest of the afternoon free at leisure or take a short walk of few hours.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
5357

With leisure time with grand views at Gokyo, today a short walk to a small place at Na or further beneath Ngozumba glacier, time permitting walking a little further depending upon best available lodge on route.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
4750

Starting with pleasant morning walk descending on gradual winding path above Dudh Kosi River opposite from Machherma area, as walk continues with fabulous views, and then finally reaching a moderate size sleepy Sherpa village within a peaceful spot at Phortse where few trekkers pass around this trail.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3810

Morning facing fantastic views of high snow capped peaks with Amadablam, as our adventure continues heading slow uphill climb for an hour to a ridge and then on gradual up with stunning views as the walk leads above a river, and then reaching at upper Pangboche village near its old monastery.

With rest and possible lunch stop, afternoon walk on downhill to a bridge over Imjatse River, where an hour steep up into a cool lovely alpine forest brings you at beautiful Thyangboche Monastery with sweeping views of Mt. Everest and Amadablam with other adjoining peaks.

At Thyangboche Monastery areas for overnight stop in its nice and cozy lodge, with ample time to explore its interesting monasteries where you can observe monks and priest on prayer.

Thyangboche famous for Mani Rimdu festival held in October months.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
3867

Morning along with grand views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Kangtenga, Tharmarserku, Kwangde with magnificent Mt. Amadablam, from here heading down hill and then over a bridge with climb up to Kyanjinma, an hour before Namche Bazaar.

Kyanjinma a small scenic place with few good lodges offers grand views of Everest-Amadablam with Thermasharkhu, here chances of seeing some wild life.

From this isolated and peaceful spot heading back to Namche bazaar and then downhill to Dudh Kosi to reach at Sagarmatha entrance and exit gate to reach at Monjo village for overnight after a pleasant day walk.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2860

Our last day walk of this great adventure, morning leads on gradual trail crossing a long bridge to reach at Phakding, and then on the way to Lukla with few ups and downhill with last and final climb of an hour to reach at Lukla for last overnight stop in Khumbu and Everest region.

Food
BLD
Accomodation
Lodge
Elevation
2830

Morning as per flight time transfer to Lukla terminal building, then board in a small aircraft for exciting half hour flight to reach back into hustle and bustle city life of Kathmandu.

Rest of the day free and relax your body and muscles from great adventure on Gokyo Lake & Gokyo-Ri Trekking.

Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
1350

What Is Included ?

  • Airport – Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
  • All government and local taxes if necessary.
  • Permits: All necessary paper works: Sagarmatha National Park permit & Khumbu Rural Municipality entry fee.
  • Insurance: Insurance for all involved Nepalese staffs during the trek.
  • Trekking Map: Everest Region Trekking map.
  • Member transportation: – Air Transportation: (Domestic Flight) Fly from Kathmandu – Lukla and while returning Lukla.
  • Food & Lodging: 3 meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) along with accessible accommodation twin sharing at Hotel/Lodge/teahouse during the trek.
  • Guide: Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek
  • Porter: Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) up to 15kg during the trek.
  • Comprehensive Medical kit.

What Is Excluded?

  • Insurance: Travel and high-altitude insurance. *Mandatory
  • Rescue Evacuation: Medical and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Helicopter, Medication, Medical Tests and Hospitalization costs).
  • Personal Expenses: Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer and any alcoholic beverages.
  • Personal Equipment: Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking equipment.

Gokyo Lake Trekking Altitude Profile

FAQs

The Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek is a popular trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal that takes you to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri, a peak overlooking the lakes and offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.

The Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek typically takes around 12-14 days to complete, depending on your pace and itinerary.

The best time to do the Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons, when the weather is clear and the skies are generally free of clouds.

The Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, with some steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and variable weather conditions. It is recommended that trekkers have some prior trekking experience and be in good physical condition.

The highlights of the Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek include the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, the stunning views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks from Gokyo Ri, and the chance to experience the unique Sherpa culture and hospitality of the region.

Accommodation on the Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek varies from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges, depending on the location and altitude. The tea houses typically offer simple but clean rooms with shared bathroom facilities, while the lodges may have attached bathrooms and more amenities.

Yes, you will need a trekking permit to do the Gokyo and Gokyo Ri trek, as it is located within the Sagarmatha National Park. You will also need a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card.

Gokyo Ri is a peak located at an altitude of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) above sea level.

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