Gokyo Lakes Trek - 13 Days

- Based on 5 reviews
Gokyo Lakes Trek

Trip Overview

Gokyo Lakes trek or Gokyo Ri hiking is a relatively new trekking route that was opened as an alternative to the classical Everest region treks. This trek is for those who like to walk to Everest without the physical exertion of reaching all the way to the base camp or crossing any high passes.

Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo valley is made up of six fresh bodies of water, located at an altitude of more than 4,700m to 5,000m. The pristine turquoise water of Gokyo lakes are the highest freshwater lake systems in the world and one of Nepal’s most memorable sights. The lakes are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists alike, and also have been designated as wetlands of international importance.

Gokyo Ri (5357m)

Gokyo Peak, or known locally as Gokyo Ri is a 5,357 m (17,575 ft)-high peak in the Khumbu region located on the west side of the Ngozumpa glacier.

Embarking on this trekking offers you an exceptional chance to witness gigantic Himalayam ranges like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, among others. And other remarkable views of Ama Dablam (6,856m) and Thamserku (6,608m) will have you spellbound.

Namche Bazaar – Gateway to Mount Everest

The first part of the trek, i.e to Namche Bazaar, follows the same path of the Everest Base Camp expedition. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant market that is the biggest Sherpa settlement in Nepal.

Here, you will be able to experience the heart of the trekking culture in Nepal. It is from Namche Bazaar that you branch off the main trail and make way to the quaint village of Phortse Tenga, Machhermo and Dole.

Machhermo

The Machhermo village is located at an altitude of 4,465m/ 14,645ft and is lies at the southside base of a steep hillside. This hillside shelters the village from harsh winds blowing from the north that this region is prone to. On the west side of Machhermo, you can witness a grand rocky amphitheater.

Gokyo Ri and Lakes

The route to the Gokyo lakes is a relatively less frequented route and so offers the travellers an unadulterated insight into the local village life.

On the eastern side of Gokyo Ri is Ngozumpa glacier that is probably the most noteworthy marks of the trek. This gigantic glacier is the longest icy glacier in Nepal. From Here, you get spectacular views of icy rivers, icy glacier debris, mountain peaks and the dazzling turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes.

On the southern tip of the Ngozumpa Glacier is an alternative trekking route that will lead you over Cho La pass where it meets with the main Everest Base Camp trail. Spending an extra day at Gokyo Ri gives you the time to pay a visit to the 5th and 6th lake is located in a high alpine bowl at the foot of Cho Oyu mountain.

Spending an extra day at Gokyo Ri gives you the time to pay a visit to the 5th and 6th lake is located in a high alpine bowl at the foot of Cho Oyu mountain.

The route itself ends at Gokyo Ri and travellers usually retrace their steps back to Namche Bazaar where travel stories are swapped over a hot cup of steaming Everest coffee. Each stop in this unspoiled Gokyo Lakes Trekking has its own charm and offers a unique experience to travellers that no other trekking offers. 

Trip Highlight

  • A total of nineteen lakes are part of the the Gokyo freshwater system. Each uniquely captivating.
  • "Off the beaten path" trekking experience in the unspoiled Gokyo valley.
  • The Ngozumpa glacier, reputed to be the largest glacier in the Himalayas with Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Everest in the backdrop.
  • Trekking route provides lots of varieties in scenery from bustling busy city of Namche Bazaar to the icy glacier that is Ngozumpa Glacier.
  • Taking a cold ice bath at one of the lakes.
  • Itinenary
  • Price Details
  • Faqs
  • Reviews

Itinenary

  • Day 01

    Arrival in Kathmandu

    • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
    • Nepal Tour Guide team will greet you and drop you at your hotel.
    • Half day visit of major world heritage sites in Kathmandu such as  Royal Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath temple, Syambhunath, and Boudhanath stupa.
    • Prepping for the next day's trek.
    • Overnight stay at your hotel.
  • Day 02

    3-4 hr drive to Manthali. 20 min flight to Lukla– 3.5 hr trek to Phakding

    • Altitude: 2840m/9320 ft (Lukla) and 2610m/8560 ft (Phakding)
    • On the second day, you’ll begin your journey with a breath-taking Himalayan flight to Lukla. Lukla is a small town perched on a mountainside and has an airport with a single runway.
    • After this scenic flight, you’ll trek for approximately 3.5 hours via blooming rhododendrons, magnolia trees, and pine forests to Phakding.
    • Once you reach Phakding, you can visit the local monastery. Rest of the time make sure to take good rest and be ready for the real challenge ahead!
    • Overnight stay in Phakding.

  • Day 03

    Trek to Namche Bazaar [3440m/11290 ft]

    • We’ll be heading towards Namche Bazaar. The trek begins with a walk ascending via beautiful pine forests along the banks of Dudh Koshi river.
      We then cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge, named after the iconic Sir Edmund Hillary.
    • We step into Sagarmatha National Park, where we get to see some rare wild species such as Himalayan Bear, Thur, Red Panda, and many more.
      Here you’ll get the first view of Mt. Everest and a grand reminder of what you are stepping into.
    • We reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Mt. Everest.
    • Trekking hours: Approximately 6 hours
    • Highlights: Explore Namche Bazaar better known as the gateway to Mt. Everest and the main trading center of Khumbu region. Also, its bakeries are famous for a good reason and this will be a great opportunity to indulge small luxuries.
  • Day 04

    Acclimatization day trip to Namche Bazaar.

    • Altitude: 3440m/11290 ft
    • Trekking hours: Approximately 6 hours
    • On the fourth day, you’ll take a rest day in Namche.
    • But actually, there will not be any rest at all. You’ll get a chance to adjust your body to the altitude. You need to also follow the advice “hike high and sleep low”. To adjust to higher altitude you’ve to hike to a higher elevation and then return to sleep at a lower elevation.
    • For acclimatization, you’ll take a day trip to Namche Bazaar. Here you’ll climb 300 meters to the town of Khumjung.
    • Also, you’ll visit some local schools and a Buddhist monastery.
      You’ll spend your night at Namche Bazaar.
    • Highlights: Khumjung Village, a perfect place to get an insight into high-altitude life in the Himalaya
  • Day 05

    Trek from Namche Bazzar to Dole-(4,110m), 5-6 hour

    • We climb a steep path out of Namche Bazaar to Kyangjuma Village from where we can enjoy outstanding views of Thamserku, Katenga, and Ama Dablam.
    • Another steep ascent to Mong La- a charming settlement perched on top of Mt. Khumbila. An ancient historical Chorten stands at the centre of the settlement. We stop at the top of Mong La to admire the views.
    • Lunch then another pleasant hike through rhododendron and orchid vegetation.
    • A chance to spot local animal species such as pheasants, mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer while on the way is not unusual.
    • Through forests, waterfalls and bridges, we reach Dole.
    • Overnight at Dole.
  • Day 06

    Dole Village to Machhermo-(4,470 m/ 14,663 ft): 5 - 6 hours

    • Steady climb up through a ridge above Dole via Lhabarma at 4220m to reach Luza at 4360m. The path is steep in most places as we pass through thorny bushes up to Lhabarma.
    • Good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku the trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza.
      Ascending  from Luza, we leave the Dudh Koshi valley deep below.
    • Walking along the hillside above the thundering Dudh Koshi passing through some small hamlets and through sandy spurs, we reach Machhermo. Machhermo is the last major settlement on the way up to Gokyo.
    • The Himalayan Rescue Hospital lies here. We pay a visit for a lecture regarding the altitude sickness, its precaution, and primary treatment.
    • Overnight in Machhermo.
  • Day 07

    Machhermo to Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft): 5 - 6 hours

    • We start with a climb up a ridge to reach a chorten. From here we can get a glimpse of Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8153m).
    • After a pleasant walk beyond the ridge, the valley widens and leads to Pangka (4480m).
    • We descend to the river bank before beginning to climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier. It is a steep climb on the moraine.
    • After crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4690m and a second lake called Taboche Tsho.
    • A little further is the third lake. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop.
    • Lunch then we explore around the third Lakes, Dudh Pokhari.
    • We spend the night.
  • Day 08

    Gokyo Valley: Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17,570 ft) and hike to fifth lakes: 5 - 6 hours

    • If Gokyo Ri has not been done the day before, then the 8th day is reserved for this since Gokyo Ri is the highlight of this trip.
    • Early morning, we hike up to Gokyo Ri (Gokyo Peak). Climbing to Gokyo Ri is strenuous and takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the to.,
    • The scenery of Gokyo village on the edge of the third lake that overlooks the broad Ngozumpa Glacier is simply mind blowing.
    • Panoramic views of mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, K 43, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori.
    • We descend to Thaknak for an overnight stay
  • Day 09

    Gokyo to Dole: 3 - 4 hours

    • We again descent towards Dudh Koshi valley passing by Machhermo.
    • The path to Dole is a steep one through thorny bushes that lie on the slopes.
    • Good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku the trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza.
  • Day 10

    Dole to Namche Bazaar: 4 - 5 hours

    • We again descent towards Dudh Koshi valley passing by Machhermo.
    • The path to Dole is a steep one through thorny bushes that lie on the slopes.
    • Good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku the trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza.
    • If you didn't spot the animals like mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer, then this is your chance. So pay extra attention.
    • A fantastic view of Ama Dablam range again greets us as we make our descent to Namche Bazaar.
  • Day 11

    Namche Bazaar to Lukla: 6 - 8 hours

    • This will be our last day of walk. We descend further down, crossing several suspension bridges.
    • Trekking further all the way to Dudh Koshi river, you’ll arrive at Phakding.
    • You’ll have some rest here and follow small ascend to Lukla.
    • Here, you can again enjoy some best cuisine and hot shower. This will be the final day in Everest region. You’ll spend last night of your trek in Lukla.
    • Once again, you can celebrate your successful journey with fellow trekkers.
    • Highlights: Explore Lukla valley and enjoy the final walk in the Everest region
  • Day 12

    Fly to Kathmandu

    • On twelveth day, you’ll return back to Kathmandu from Lukla by twin-otter plane. Once again, you’ll be facing off with dramatic scenery on the way back.
    • You can enjoy the final views of these amazing snow-capped peaks.
    • After arriving at Kathmandu you can spend the rest of day in Kathmandu celebrating your success. If you want you can explore the city and do shopping for your loved ones and relatives.
    • You’ll spend a night at Kathmandu.

  • Day 13

    Final departure

    Transfer to airport for your departure.

    End of service.

Price Details

Price Includes
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu in a 3* category hotel with BB and All mountain accommodation in Soft, comfortable, twin sharing private room with shared toilet (Local lodges)
  • All airport transfers.
  • Domestic Flight From Lukla to Kathmandu.
  • All airport taxes
  • All necessary paper work and trekking permits (National Park permit and TIMS)
  • An experienced English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide and local porter to carry luggage.
  • Guide and porter salaries, insurance.
  • All government and local taxes
Price Not Includes
  • Launch, Dinner or meals in trekking region.
  • Bottled drinks, Hot drinks, Boiled water or other Beverages.
  • All Personal expenses.
  • Hot Shower in Trekking region.
  • Travel insurance and Evacuation cost.
  • Tips (Not compulsory)
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by your travel insurance company.
  • Items not included in Cost inclusions.
  • Costs due to Beyond Control conditions.

Faqs

Reviews

Aristofanes Cedeno
Aristofanes Cedeno

One Week in Nepal With Tour Guide

I recently spent one week in Nepal and Tour Guide Team Trek provided an extraordinary service with an itinerary suited to my needs and interests, including Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, detailed cultural and historical explanations when visiting different sites in Kathmandu, and above all, a customer and people-oriented approach to all activities, meals, shopping, etc. Kumar Dahal was my tour guide and it was a pleasure for me to have him showing me his native Nepal. Kumar has excellent English speaking skills and he is willing to take the extra mile to help you have the best trip to this beautiful country. I recommend him and Nepal Tour Guide Team Trek wholeheartedly as the best agency to fulfill your expectations.

Adam Szucs
Adam Szucs

Memorable 4 Days With Tour Guide

My wife and I had the privilege to enjoy a 4 days long private tour with tourguideinnepal.com. Everything was spot on. We had a private driver and a private tour guide for the entire trip, both extremely polite. I can 100% recommend them to others also. I also found their pricing more than fair. Kumar runs the company, he was very helpful when we put together the custom itinerary. Our tour guide was Suvash, probably the most caring guy I’ve ever met. Thanks for the lifetime experience guys!

Brad Wegner
Brad Wegner

Two Nights Was Awesome

I only had two nights in Kathmandu and primarily wanted to do a chopper flight around Everest as well as see as much of Kathmandu as possible. Kumar was amazing and looked after me like family. I did a lot of research and Kumar booked the Chopper flight for me and answered any and all questions I had leading up to it. The Everest day was truly one of the best and awe inspiring days of my life. Kumar also took us to all of the must see sights in Kathmandu. He listened to our needs as well as read our body language for what we required. You must have a guide in places like Kathmandu to understand the history and not miss anything and you won’t regret using Kumar – he is the best!!

Tom And Heide
Tom And Heide

18th September, 2018

AMAZING NEPAL EXPERIENCE WITH Nepal Tour Guide Team

We had the privilege exploring KTM valley with Kumar. He has a way of showing you all facets of Nepal as nobody else will. Not only does he know his country like no other, he also has a special way of connecting you with his culture , people, customs and more like a real tour guide can only do. He is a humanitarian, a good spirit, with a great sense of humor and a heart of gold, someone who CARES about his country and people. You will love the way he guides you and shows you his country. Anything from local foods, to extensive history or just small talk about politics and social issues, Kumar is happy to discuss all. He showed us a side of Nepal, we would have never experienced with a larger bus group. He customized our program to our liking, the way we wanted it, patiently answered all of our questions always friendly , attentive and genuine. We can highly recommend Kumar as your private guide. I have traveled the world extensively (please see my other reviews on tripadvisor) and know the difference between ‘just a guide’ and a true tour director who LOVES his job and connecting with people from all walks of life. Kumar is great in what he does and his personality will make you like him the day you meet. We are still friends and should we return to Nepal, there is no doubt in our minds that we will see him again, not only as our guide but also to reunite with a great friend and human being.

Two Weeks In Nepal

We came to Nepal for just under two weeks in March 2017. My husband and I decided to bring my mom for her 60th birthday as it was her lifelong dream to visit Nepal. But weren’t sure what to do while we were there! Luckily, we found Nepal Tour Guide Team, and after a few emails to Kumar, he set up the whole trip for us. Our trip was incredible, and Kumar was wonderful. From Kathmandu to Chitwan, Pokhara and back, Kumar showed us the whole country, and his knowledge was second to none. He arranged all the hotels, the car and driver, the things we did, showed us great places to eat and most importantly, provided great friendship and conversation along the way! We laughed the whole trip and had a wonderful time. The mountains were beautiful, Chitwan was amazing, and the lakeside at Pokhara was definitely my mom’s favorite part. We’re still positive we had the best tour guide and the most skilled driver in the entire country. Kumar is an incredible person and we made a lifelong friend. Even after coming home, we continue to keep in touch, chatting and making video calls. We can’t wait to go back!

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    Total Cost (USD) USD 1175 / person

    Trip Facts

    • Trip Code

      TGN-35

    • Difficulty

      Strenuous

    • Trip Style

      Private / Group

    • End In

      Kathmandu

    • Group Size

      2 - 14 Pax

    • Max Altitute

      5357 m

    • Accomodation

      Hotel, Tea House

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    Nepal Tourism Activities

    Trip Name : Gokyo Lakes Trek


    Trip Overview :

    Gokyo Lakes trek or Gokyo Ri hiking is a relatively new trekking route that was opened as an alternative to the classical Everest region treks. This trek is for those who like to walk to Everest without the physical exertion of reaching all the way to the base camp or crossing any high passes.

    Gokyo Lakes

    The Gokyo valley is made up of six fresh bodies of water, located at an altitude of more than 4,700m to 5,000m. The pristine turquoise water of Gokyo lakes are the highest freshwater lake systems in the world and one of Nepal's most memorable sights. The lakes are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists alike, and also have been designated as wetlands of international importance.

    Gokyo Ri (5357m)

    Gokyo Peak, or known locally as Gokyo Ri is a 5,357 m (17,575 ft)-high peak in the Khumbu region located on the west side of the Ngozumpa glacier.

    Embarking on this trekking offers you an exceptional chance to witness gigantic Himalayam ranges like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, among others. And other remarkable views of Ama Dablam (6,856m) and Thamserku (6,608m) will have you spellbound.

    Namche Bazaar - Gateway to Mount Everest

    The first part of the trek, i.e to Namche Bazaar, follows the same path of the Everest Base Camp expedition. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant market that is the biggest Sherpa settlement in Nepal.

    Here, you will be able to experience the heart of the trekking culture in Nepal. It is from Namche Bazaar that you branch off the main trail and make way to the quaint village of Phortse Tenga, Machhermo and Dole.

    Machhermo

    The Machhermo village is located at an altitude of 4,465m/ 14,645ft and is lies at the southside base of a steep hillside. This hillside shelters the village from harsh winds blowing from the north that this region is prone to. On the west side of Machhermo, you can witness a grand rocky amphitheater.

    Gokyo Ri and Lakes

    The route to the Gokyo lakes is a relatively less frequented route and so offers the travellers an unadulterated insight into the local village life.

    On the eastern side of Gokyo Ri is Ngozumpa glacier that is probably the most noteworthy marks of the trek. This gigantic glacier is the longest icy glacier in Nepal. From Here, you get spectacular views of icy rivers, icy glacier debris, mountain peaks and the dazzling turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes.

    On the southern tip of the Ngozumpa Glacier is an alternative trekking route that will lead you over Cho La pass where it meets with the main Everest Base Camp trail. Spending an extra day at Gokyo Ri gives you the time to pay a visit to the 5th and 6th lake is located in a high alpine bowl at the foot of Cho Oyu mountain.

    Spending an extra day at Gokyo Ri gives you the time to pay a visit to the 5th and 6th lake is located in a high alpine bowl at the foot of Cho Oyu mountain.

    The route itself ends at Gokyo Ri and travellers usually retrace their steps back to Namche Bazaar where travel stories are swapped over a hot cup of steaming Everest coffee. Each stop in this unspoiled Gokyo Lakes Trekking has its own charm and offers a unique experience to travellers that no other trekking offers. 

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