License No: 237321

Gokyo, spactacular view of Gokyo lakes from Gokyo Ri

Gokyo Lakes

Quick Facts

  • Duration:15 Days
  • Trek Style:Hiking and Trekking
  • Group Size:2++
  • Location:Sagarmatha national park
  • Trek Starting Point:Lukla
  • Trip Grade:Moderate
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accomodation:teahouse during trek
  • Max-Altitude:4750 m
  • Transportation:tourist coach / domestic flight
  • Trek Ending Point:Lukla
  • Departure from:kathmandu

Gokyo Lakes

Gokyo lakes, around 5,000 m above sea level, form the world’s highest freshwater lake system. The sparkling blue and green waters of the Gokyo Lakes are one of the most beautiful and memorable sights in Nepal.

The Gokyo Lakes hike is ideal for people who want to hike in the Everest region and want variety but fewer nights at very high altitudes. During this trek, apart from trekking to the six glacial-fed Gokyo Lakes, trekkers can include a climb to the top of Gokyo Ri, which is at the same altitude as Everest Base Camp. From the summit, we can enjoy spectacular glimpse of Mt. Everest and other Himalayas and glaciers. This route provides different views of the bright turquoise high-altitude lakes, Ngozumpa glacier (the largest glacier in the Himalayas) and views across to Everest as well as other 8,000 m – plus mountains (Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu) from the top of Gokyo Ri.

 

Gokyo lakes and Gokyo Ri
View of Gokyo Ri and Gokyo lakes

Highlights:

☛ Hike to the largest glacier in the world: the Ngozumpa glacier.
☛ Breathtaking mountain views from Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri.
☛ Explore Sagarmatha National Park, the habitat of exotic birds and animals.
☛ Visit the highest freshwater lake system in the world, the Gokyo Lakes.
☛ Enjoy the panoramic views of mountains like Everest, Lhotse etc.
☛ Discover the unique and vibrant tradition, culture and way of life of the Sherpa community.
☛ 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla with panoramic views of the landscapes.

Arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport. Our Staff member meets you and transfers you to the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.
Morning wake-up and breakfast in the hotel.
Our guide will meet you in your hotel and brief you about the upcoming  Gokyo lakes trekking. He will guide you through all the formalities and necessary paper-works required for the trekking.
After that, we then do Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley of famous UNESCO world heritage sites like Boudhanath, one of the largest Stupas in the world; Swayambhunath, a famous monkey temple, and Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu temple complex. Apart from Sightseeing, we also get a TIMS card and permits for our trekking on this day. In the evening, we do initial preparation for the Gokyo lakes trekking.
Overnight at Hotel.
After early breakfast, we depart from Kathmandu via airplane for Lukla (2840 m). The flight takes about 35 minutes to reach Lukla airport from Kathmandu. The Lukla flight is one of the most dramatic short-distance flights in the world. The Lukla Airport is located on a hill and consists of a single runway that drops off towards its end to the deep gaping valley below. Surrounded by tall mountains and jaded hills, the airstrip at Lukla is quite fascinating and the flight is a thrilling adventure in itself. Upon arrival at Lukla, the changes are immediately felt. The mountainous landscape becomes quite prominent and the air carries a crisp freshness to it, which only the Himalayan atmosphere carries. From Lukla, the trekking trail slowly moves towards the Cheplung Village. The view of the sacred Mount Khumbila from the village at Cheplung is gorgeous. From there, a gradual walk downwards leads to the village of Phakding. The terrain is amazing and tall hills surround the trail like giant mounds of emeralds. From Phakding, the sight of the Kusum Kangraru Mountain can be seen. The village of Phakding lies in the Dudh Koshi River valley north of Lukla and contains many guesthouses and lodges for the service of tourists and trekkers.
Overnight at Guesthouse.
Note: The weather in Lukla is very unpredictable. Sometimes due to bad weather, the flight may be delayed or canceled. If the flight is canceled, you will have to return to the hotel in Kathmandu. The transportation back to the hotel and accommodation on this night is not included. If the weather is clear the next day, you will get either a 3rd or 4th flight to Lukla. If still, the weather is not clear, there will be an option for helicopter flight also. The cost of helicopter flight is not fixed. It will be quoted by the airlines on the same day. You will have to pay an additional approx. 150 USD for the helicopter flight from KTM to Lukla. Although this problem is rare, it is our duty to let you know in advance.
After breakfast at Phakding, the trail further opens out to reach the celebrated mountain town of Namche Bazaar. On route to Namche, several smaller villages are crossed, like Jorsale and Monjo. Monjo lies north of Phakding and is the entry point of the Sagarmatha National Park. The trail ventures through the national park and finally arrives at Namche. Walking along the trekking route through the Sagarmatha National Park presents many virtues, like its alpine woods, small rivers, and brooks, and deciduous forests. Thick acreages of Pine and Cedar cover the lands and provide a pleasant atmosphere to trek through. Namche Bazaar, because of its strategic location, is the commercial hub of the Khumbu region. It is located on a mountainside, and the Thamserku Peak and the Kongdi RI Himal views are amazing.
Overnight at Guesthouse.
Today we spend our whole day at Namche Bazaar to get acclimatized with the high elevated environment. We explore the beautiful huge secluded bowl-shaped Namche Bazaar. The marvelous sight of Khumbu Mountains like Ama Dablam (6856 m), Thamserku (6608 m) as well as immense vistas of Everest will take away your breath. Additionally, we walk to Thami (3810 m) situated above Bhote Khola River Valley. We also visit the Sagarmatha National park to view the protected floras and faunas.
Overnight at Teahouse.
Early morning we head towards Dole, a hike that takes around 5 hours of walking. First of all our path moves downhill, then we climb uphill and pass the Mon La pass before reaching Phortse Tenga. On the way, the rhododendron forest, birch forest covered with hanging lichens and mosses will keep you energized all the time. We then ascend towards our final destination for today, Dole, where we spend our night at Teahouse.
Machherna, situated at the height of 4470 m, is our destination for today. We hike about 4 hours uphill. Significantly, the marvelous vistas of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku will mesmerize you. Upon arrival in Machherma, we end our day at a Teahouse.
We rest today in Machhermo to acclimatize with the high elevated environment. We explore the village to see the unique flora and fauna, the place has to offer. This place also famous for the tale of “YETI”, which killed three yaks and wounded a Sherpa girl in 1974.
Overnight at Teahouse.
Today is one of the most awaited days of the whole trek because we ascend towards Gokyo Ri, lying at the elevation of 4750 m, hiking approximately 5 hours. We pass Pangka and later walk on the messy, steep moraines of Ngozumpa Glacier – the major glacier in Nepal. We then get a stunning view of greenish-blue Gokyo Lake. The varied scenery of the Gokyo Valley, adjacent peaks flanking Tibet, and Cho Oyu will, for sure, take away your breath. We then head towards the beautiful second lake of stunning Gokyo Lake. At the shore lying on the east, we can notice the settlement of Gokyo.
Overnight at Teahouse.
On this day we hike up to Gokyo Peak for around 3 hours and reach an elevation of 5360 m. From the peak, we witness the stunning panorama of Mt. Everest, Makalu, etc. After enjoying the stunning landscapes for a while, we ascend back again till we reach Dole.
Overnight at Teahouse.
Today we trek to Khumjung village located at an elevation of 3780 m. Walking further, we reach the hidden valley of Khumjung village, one of the most important villages of the Everest Region. Here we make a trip to Khumjung monastery, where we also get a sight of the nearby Sherpa village.
Overnight at Teahouse.
We leave Khumjung village to head towards Syangboche, where we get to view the stunning peaks. We then walk to Thame village, where we rest for a while. As we depart from Thami, we walk across Bhote Khola on a bridge. We will after that walk all the way from side to side with the area of Thamo and get there at Namche Bazaar. Walking down, we will cross the large suspension bridge above the Dudh Kosi River and then pass all the way through Jorsale to get to Manjo.
Overnight at Teahouse.
This is the last day of the trek. We will walk ahead from Manjo to get to Lukla which is situated at the altitude of 2840 m taking approximately 5 hours. Here we will celebrate the success of our trek.
Overnight at Teahouse.
Early in the morning, we will fly to Kathmandu on this day. After that, we will transfer to our hotel in Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we do some leisure activities and Sightseeing in the Thamel area, a famous tourist area in Kathmandu. In the evening, time for leisure and shopping.
Overnight at Hotel.
After breakfast, a staff member will pick you up from the hotel and transfers you to the airport for the final departure. We wish you a pleasant and safe flight back home and hope to see you soon again.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Airport Pick-up and drop Service
  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu (twin sharing basis) with breakfast
  • Guided Tour of Kathmandu valley with an experienced tour guide
  • Sightseeing charges and Entry fees
  • 2 way domestic flight ( KTM – LUK and LUK – KTM)
  • Accommodation during the trek (teahouse / guesthouse / homestay)
  • All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Transportation (tourist coach / local bus / private vehicle)
  • Experienced licensed English-speaking trekking guide
  • Local government Entry Permit of Rs. 2000 (started in 2018)
  • Insurance of the Guide and Porter
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Trekking Permit Card
  • Medical kits carried by the guide
  • All necessary paper works, office service charge and all Government Taxes

 

Optional Add-Ons:
  • Porter (cost: 20 USD per day, carries 15 – 20 kg load. Porter’s accommodation, transport and meal is paid by the company)
  • Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map (in case you don‘t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)

WHAT'S EXCLUDED

  • Travel insurance (Mandatory: Should include emergency evacuation coverage while trekking up to 5500+ m)
  • International airfare and Visa costs (you can get Visa upon arrival at the airport)
  • Personal interest items or gears
  • Tips to guide / driver / porter
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Beverage and Drink Items / Other Extra facilities like hot shower during trek
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in “What’s Included” section
Gokyo lakes trekking elevation map 2021
Gokyo lakes trekking elevation map

FAQs: Gokyo Lakes trek

 

The way to Lake Gokyo is moderately difficult. You need to be in good shape and have the stamina for this hike as you will have to walk for about 6 – 7 hours almost daily except in acclimatization days. The steep paths, the rough terrain and the high passes are more exclusive.Sometimes the altitude is a big problem here too, as you will spend many days at altitudes above 3000 m. You will also go at an altitude of around 5000 m. The air is much less and thin here and altitude sickness affects some travelers. Breathing can be quite difficult even for those who aren’t affected, and long days of trekking may add to the problems.

We can do Gokyo Lakes trek all the year around. However, Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) seasons are considered the best seasons for this trekking. During this time the weather and skies are clear and the views are brilliant. The weather is best for hiking without rain. Especially during the spring season, we can also enjoy lush vegetation in the lower regions of the path.

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek are considered moderate hikes. You need to walk 6 – 7  hours each day with a light backpack. The hike is relatively easy for those who have already hiked at higher elevations. We gently ask you to jog and exercise regularly at least a few months before you start your hike. Previous hiking experience would be a bonus, but no technical knowledge is required for this trip. It is also important that you consult your doctor before booking the hike. Participants with existing illnesses such as heart, lung and blood diseases must also inform us before booking this trek.

The main thing that makes this hike enjoyable and memorable are the knowledgeable, courteous and helpful guides and crew members who can make sure your days on the mountain go smoothly. The best and professional leaders will guide our journey. All employees are carefully selected based on their experience, leadership qualities and personal skills. In order to maintain the local communities, we only employ locals who have adequate knowledge of the culture, ecosystem, flora, fauna, geography and history of the region.
Travel insurance is a prerequisite for booking any services with us. You must have at least one emergency and repatriation insurance that covers the cost of medical bills and rescue caused due to any unforseen circumstances while on the mountain. We will ask a copy of your travel insurance during the booking process. Please Read our terms and conditions carefully. In particular, you need to ensure that your travel insurance covers the following requisites:
1) All kinds of Activities like tourism, trekking or mountaineering
2) height above 5000 m while trekking
3) Evacuation by helicopter in an emergency
It is important to understand that you will bear the cost of evacuation and repatriation procedures and that it is your responsibility to pay for evacuation or medical treatment. You need to be fully aware of the implications of your travel insurance and understand the limitations and exclusions of the policy. Please note that under certain circumstances, in the event of a medical emergency, our company manager may initiate helicopter rescue (or other necessary operations) without first obtaining approval from your insurance company. So please make sure you have reliable and adequate travel insurance for this trip.
Map of Gokyo Lakes Trek
Price from
$ 1550 USD
  • Best price
  • Secure and reliable booking
  • No booking or credit card fees
  • 100% Guaranteed departures
  • Full customized trips
Book This Trip

Related Packages

Mt. Everest seen during Everest base camp trek

Everest Base Camp

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 15 Days
  • Cost 1550 USD
Mt. Annapurna seen during Annapurna Base camp trek

Annapurna Base Camp

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 14 Days
  • Cost 1200 USD
Langtang himalayan range seen during Langtang Gosainkunda trek

Langtang Gosainkunda

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 17 Days
  • Cost 1200 USD
Everest base camp via Gokyo lakes, a clever choice

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo lakes

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 18 Days
  • Cost 2100 USD
Gokyo, spactacular view of Gokyo lakes from Gokyo Ri

Gokyo Lakes

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 15 Days
  • Cost 1550 USD
Everest three pass trek, ultimate trekking experience in Everest region

Everest Three pass

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 19 Days
  • Cost 2550 USD
Ama Dablam seen from hotel Everest view during short trek to Everest region

Everest View short trek

Best Selling Tour
  • Duration 8 Days
  • Cost 900 USD
Open chat
1
Customer-Service
Namaste,
Have Questions? Let's chat!

We are associated and certified with

Government of Nepal

Registered with: Company Registration Office, Government of Nepal

Nepal tourism board

Licensed by: Nepal Tourism Board & Department of Tourism

Nepal Mountaineering Association

General Member of Nepal Mountaineering Association

Trekking Agency's Association of Nepal (TAAN)

Proud Member of Trekking Agency's Association of Nepal