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Gokyo Lake Trek - 12 Days

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Gokyo Lake Trek Photo
Gokyo Lake Trek Photo
Gokyo Lake Trekking
Duration12 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5357 m.
Group Size2-12
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking, Hiking, Photography
Best TimeMarch to May and October to December

Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the most traditional and revered treks in the Everest region, famous for its pristine turquoise water lakes and the NGozumpa Glacier. The trek is renowned for the breathtaking landscapes on Earth, snow-capped mountains, and clear lakes at every turn. The Gokyo Lake trek is also known as the Gokyo Ri trek. This is also one of the famous destinations among adventure seekers from all around the world. 

Gokyo Lake Trek Highlights

  • One of the most revered treks in the Everest region, famous for its pristine turquoise water lakes.
  • Ngozumpa glacier is the largest in the Himalayas and lies below the Cho Oyu mountain in Nepal.
  •  An alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek.
  • A perfect blend of natural beauty with cultural richness, making it a perfect adventure for those looking for a peaceful and wonderful experience in the Mountains. 
  • The traditional Sherpa valleys allow you to explore their culture, traditions, local lifestyle, and religious temples. 
  • Presents a unique and heavenly side of the Himalayan region.
  •  A unique vision to your experience of admiring nature's epic cycle. 

The Gokyo Lake Trek presents numerous stunning lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks in the Gokyo Valley that provide the most mesmerizing look in the Himalayas. Situated at an elevation of 4,800 meters, Gokyo Lake Trek is an unforgettable journey to the iconic Everest region. Gokyo Valley Trek presents an ideal combination of natural beauty with cultural richness, making it a perfect adventure for those looking for a peaceful and wonderful experience in the Mountains. The Gokyo Lake Trekking route brings you through some traditional teahouses and Sherpa settlements. 

Gokyo Lake Trek 2025/2026 with Adventure Hikers will reward you with lifetime memorable experiences of trekking in Nepal. Nestled in the Khumbu region, the Gokyo Lake trek provides you an opportunity to witness nature's most mesmerizing gifts including the Gokyo Ri viewpoint, Chola Pass, and Khumbu Icefall. You will get to admire some of the world's highest peaks like Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and himalayan flora and fauna including the Himalayan lifestyles. 

What to expect from Gokyo Lake Trek?

Joining our Gokyo Lake Trek package, you will explore the evergreen beauty of the Everest region along with peaks of Gokyo Ri, Everest, and six sacred lakes in the region. The alluring views of the turquoise water lakes give you a heavenly look and atmosphere. The Gokyo Lake trek has become a popular and traditional trek in alternative to the Everest Base Camp.

The Gokyo Lake trek Itinerary starts with an awe-inspiring flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is an adventure in itself. After landing at Lukla airport, we will trek to Phakding and then to Namche Bazaar the next day. The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar gradually ascends until you reach the Sagarmatha National Park office, where you need to show your entry permit. The trekking trail leads you across many suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, and several Sherpa settlements.

Gokyo Lake is a less crowded trek that offers a chance to observe village life, snow-capped peaks, stunning icy rivers, glacier debris, and the turquoise water of Gokyo Lake. You will traverse through the various terrains including flat, downhills, uphills, rocky paths, high-suspension bridges, beautiful valleys, and learn Buddhist culture. The traditional Sherpa valleys allow you to explore their culture, traditions, local lifestyle, and religious monasteries. 

Hike to Gokyo Lake is the most adventurous trek in the Everest region that follows the high route of Cho La Pass (5,330m) into the Everest Base Camp. The ascent goes through the homeland of the Sherpa people the Dudkoshi and Khumbu valleys to the Gokyo valley, presenting breathtaking views of 8,000 meters peaks including Mt. Everest. You will also visit Gokyo Ri, offering the wonderful view of snow-capped peaks. Gokyo Lake is a perfect trek that provides the combined beauty of tranquil traditional villages, landscapes, dazzling lakes, rivers, and spectacular mountain views.  

Major attractions of the Gokyo Lake Trek

Ngozumpa Glacier is the world's largest glacier situated below the sixth-highest peak in the world, Cho Oyu. The glacier is situated in the beautiful Gokyo Valley offering an awe-inspiring sight of the Himalayas. The Ngozumpa Glacier is the presence of a series of glacial lakes known as “Tsho” which are formed as the glacier melts. 

Gokyo Ri is the highest point of the trek to get the outstanding view of the Ngozumpa glacier, turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and some of the world's highest peaks including Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m.), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m.), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m.), and Mt. Makalu (8,463m.) 

Crossing the Cho La Pass is one of the most exciting parts of this trek. Standing at an altitude of 5,420 meters, the pass connects the Gokyo Valley with the Everest Base Camp route which serves as an alternative route to the Everest Base Camp.

The Gokyo Lake trekkking provides an opportunity to explore the unique Sherpa villages and immerse in their vibrant culture, customs, and warm hospitality. In the villages, you will encounter the daily lifestyle, beliefs, culture, and traditions. The village presents awe-inspiring views of the beautiful Himalayas.

Gokyo Lakes are oligotrophic lakes in the Sagarmatha National Park, situated at an elevation of 4,700-5000 meters above sea level. The lake is the world's highest freshwater lake consisting of six turquoise water lakes. 

Is Gokyo Lake Trek suitable for you?

With an amazing view of Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. This trek is highly suggested for adventure seekers and travel enthusiasts. However, being in the high altitude, Gokyo Lake hiking is moderately difficult. 

The trek is suitable for all age groups of people, who have good physical condition. The trek takes you through some rugged terrains and off-the-beaten paths but it is a highly rewarding part as you are completely immersed into nature. This trek needs 5 to 6 hours of daily walking, which can be completed with good physical stamina. 

Preparations for the Gokyo Lake Trek

As the trek to Gokyo Lake is not so difficult, with some proper training, you can do this trek comfortably. The trekkers should be mentally and physically prepared for the tough trails.

The Gokyo Lake trekking route passes through ups and down dusty surfaces. Therefore physical fitness, endurance, and stamina are necessary to tackle the challenges on the way. Gokyo Lake Trek training includes the habit of walking, hiking, running, elevation training, cycling, etc. which helps to strengthen your leg muscles.

What to pack for the Gokyo Lake Trek?

Packing plays an important role to make the trek comfortable and successful. Be well prepared and smart about packing. Only carry the things that are essential and avoid overpacking unnecessary things. According to the trekking season, choose your essentials wisely. Here is a list of essentials that are needed for the trek:

1. Required Bodywears

Thermal sets, hiking pants & t-shirts, hiking boots, down jacket, waterproof and windproof, woolen & cotton socks, comfortable undergarments, warm & light gloves, wool/fleece hat, extra t-shirts, slippers, sun hat, and glass.

2. Trekking Gears

Trekking poles, sleeping bag, duffle bag, crampons (especially used in winter season), trekkers knife, pocket torch, etc.

3. Toiletries and personal items

Toothpaste & toothbrush, soap, shampoo, hand wash/sanitizer, toilet paper, lip balm, moisturizer, sunscreen, and towel.

4. Miscellaneous

Visa, passport, travel insurance, passport size photograph, raincoat, extra cash, universal adaptor, power bank, camera, headlamp, extra batteries, water bottle, water purification drop/capsule, snacks, etc.

Why Gokyo Lake Trek with Adventure Hikers?

  • Airport pickup and drop service.
  • Easy booking and reservation.
  • Online trip briefing after reservation.
  • 24/7 communication available WhatsApp:  +977-9851311073.
  • Immediate action in tough conditions.
  • Arrangement of sleeping bag and down jacket, if you don't have one.
  • Photography trek.
  • Experienced and trustable guide and team.
  • First-aid kit for medical emergency
  • Oximeter to monitor your pulse rate at higher altitudes.

Are you ready to explore the pristine Himalayas?

Are you set to go on the Gokyo Lake Trek? This wonderful trek offers remarkable memories with wonderful himalayan beauty. If you are still in a dilemma, talk to our travel consultant and clarify your confusion. Adventure Hikers provides a satisfying Gokyo Lake trek price and service. We are a professional team with years of experience and knowledge about the Himalayas, mountain terrains, and weather. We ensure you a safe and successful trek.

You can customize the Gokyo Lake trek itinerary in case you don't like our regular plans or have not enough time. As you can notice, we are flexible enough and all the time looking to provide our guests with a comfortable and safe trip. If you have any questions about the Gokyo Lake trek, you can freely contact us.

Reservations for the Gokyo Lake Trek 2025/2026 are open with Adventure Hikers Pvt. Ltd. The Gokyo Lake Trek cost is affordable for every trekker around the world. Let us handpick your trekking venture and enjoy a relaxing trip!

 

Itinerary

The Gokyo Lake Trek itinerary covers 12 days of trekking which provides the trekkers enough time to explore the beauty of Sherpa land.

Trip PlanExpand all

On your arrival at The Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative of Adventure Hikers will welcome you and take you to the hotel. After resting for a few hours, you will meet the team in the evening and discuss the trip and related things.

 

Max Altitude: 1400 m./4592 ft. Accommodation: 3 star HotelMode of Travel: Private vehicle

We will take an early scenic mountain flight to the Tenzing Hillary airport in Lukla, one of the most adventurous airports in the world. Situated on the lap of gorgeous mountains, Lukla is also the gateway to the Mount. Everest. From Lukla, we will start trekking to Phakding village through some beautiful landscapes.

 

Max Altitude: 2651 m./8695 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseMode of Travel: PlaneDuration: 35 min flight and 3-4 hrs. walk

The next morning, we will head up to Namche Bazaar after having breakfast. On the way, we will enter the Sagarmatha National Park to register our permit. Passing several suspension bridges including The Hillary Suspension Bridge over the Dudh Koshi River and the rhododendron forest we reach the Sherpa town, Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: 3440 m./11283 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hrs. walk

Today is our first acclimatization day of the trek at Namche Bazaar. We will hike near the Namche Bazaar to explore the beauty and Sherpa culture of the town. And also visit the Everest View Hotel which offers the finest view of Mt. Everest.

Max Altitude: 3800 m. Meals: Breakfast< Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea house

Early in the morning, we wake up to the beautiful mountain views and enjoy breakfast. Then, we will hike up the Dudh Kosi Valley, passing through an incredibly scenic route with an amazing view of Mt. Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and many others. Enjoying the waterfalls and rhododendrons we reach Dole village and spend the night there.

 

Max Altitude: 4110 m./13480 ft. Meals: Breakfas, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hrs. walk

Another morning, we will move forward to our next destination of the day. The trail involves a steep uphill gradient for a few hours and the rest of the way is gentle uphill. Ater fe hours of hiking, we will reach the small teahouse settlement of Machhermo.

Max Altitude: 4470 m./14662 ft. Meals: Breakfast< Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 4-5 hrs. walk

We will wake up early, have breakfast, and continue our footsteps towards Gokyo Lake. Today's hike is not so tiring, we descend to the Dudh Koshi River and then climb to Ngozumpa glacier. The first view we get is Gokyo Lake, as we move to the north we see the second lake which is quite long. Onwards we come to see the third lake and some tea houses where we gonna stay.

Max Altitude: 4790 m./ 15711 ft. Meals: Breakfasr, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 4-5 hrs. walk

This is going to be the most remarkable day of your life as we explore the Gokyo Lake and climb up to Gokyo Ri. Standing at an altitude of 5,357 meters Gokyo Ri is a famous viewpoint offering the great panoramic views of the mountains above the turquoise water lakes and glaciers below.

 

Max Altitude: 5357 m./ 17570 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hrs. walk

After collecting the mesmerizing memories, we will trace our steps back to Dole. Enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains and spotting some wildlife on the same trail, we reach Dole and stay here for the night.

Max Altitude: 4110 m./13480 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hrs. walk

After breakfast, we will trek back to Monjo where you need to show your permit card for the last time. Following the same route through forests and small villages. You will enjoy the crowded town and get any souvenirs of the trek. 

Max Altitude: 2835 m./9299 ft. Meals: Breakfast< Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hrs. walk

Today is the last day of our Gokyo Lake trek and we move downwards to Lukla. The trail is downhill passing through small villages and forests with mountain views. We will spend the last night of the trek in Lukla and share your experiences with your fellow trekkers and guides.

Max Altitude: 2840 m./ 9315 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house

Leaving the trekking trails behind, we will take an early flight to Kathmandu with lots of beautiful and memorable experiences. After landing at Lukla, you will be dropped off at the hotel. The whole day is yours where you can explore the city or can rest. In the afternoon, Adventure Hikers organize a dinner program to celebrate your successful trek and greet you with a certificate. Thank you for believing in Adventure Hikers for your wonderful trek in Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1400 m./4592 ft. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3 star hotelDuration: 35 min flight
Cost Details
Includes

 

  • Airport pickup and drop service (4 times)
  • 2 night Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast
  • All required official documentation for the Gokyo Lake trek
  • Permit and Entrance fees With local and government taxes 
  • Meals during the Gokyo Lake Hiking (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Accommodations during Gokyo Lake trekking
  • Professional trekking guide 
  • Staff costs, including food, accommodation, insurance, etc.
  • Hiking Cap
  • First Aid (carry by guide)
  • Trekking complete certificate
Excludes
  • Nepal Visa service 
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu (free time for you to try different local food)
  • Porter (200$) per porter if you need
  • Travel insurance (highly suggested to bring)
  • Any kind of beverage 
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tip for guide and staff (expected, this is the culture to give thanks in Nepal)
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Essential Information

To accomplish this trip successfully at least a few things you should know before starting the Gokyo Lake Trek.

1. Gokyo Lake Trek Difficulty Level

The Gokyo Lake trek is one of the most popular treks in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The Gokyo Lake trail leads you through rugged landscapes, Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and the Gokyo Valley, home to the dazzling Gokyo Lake. Despite being at a high altitude, the Gokyo Lake Trek is considered a moderate difficulty level. Though the trek at high altitudes is always challenging, certain things like physical stamina depend on the trekkers themselves. This trek demands 5-6 hours of daily walking excluding the acclimatization days. 

Along with the steep terrains, rugged trails, and high altitude can be another challenge for the trekkers. You will reach a high elevation above 5000 meters where the air is thin and the oxygen level low which can cause altitude sickness. However, following the safety measures and guidance of the guide/company will be very helpful to the trekkers to avoid any kind of risk and accomplish the goal safely and successfully. 

2. Altitude Sickness

When you ascend to a higher elevation too quickly by not giving time for your body to adjust in a low-oxygen atmosphere then you suffer from altitude sickness. Trekkers who maintain their pace and have proper acclimatization do not suffer from altitude sickness.

Symptoms: Shortness of breath, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, and loss of appetite are the symptoms of altitude sickness that normally come within 12 to 24 hours of reaching a high altitude. 

Preventive measures: Have enough acclimatization day, maintain your speed while ascending, have enough water and fluids, avoid smoke, alcohol, and dairy products, and follow the suggestions given by the guide and company.

Travel Insurance for the Gokyo Lake Trek

You can join the Gokyo Lake trek without travel insurance. But we strongly recommend you take travel insurance because you are going to high altitude trekking so, you may face some problems. In such cases, Travel insurance helps you cover the cost of emergency rescue, evacuation, and medical bills. We suggest you take travel insurance before the trek starts.

3. Gokyo Lake Trek Permits

The Government of Nepal has implied trekking permits to protect the natural beauty of the Sagarmatha National Park area and to provide a safe and enjoyable experience to visitors. As the Gokyo Lake is located in the Gokyo Valley of the Everest region, you need to obtain certain permits and they are:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit.

The permit is required for all trekkers entering the Everest region. Both the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit can be obtained from Lukla. The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit cost NPR 3,000 per person and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit cost NPR 3,000 to foreigners and NPR 1,500 to SAARC nationals.

4. The Best Time for Gokyo Lake Trek

The ideal season for the Gokyo Lake Trek is the Spring and Autumn season. These seasons are known for the comfortable trail and astonishing views. You can do the trek in a pristine glacial route throughout the year, both in season and off-season. However, the charm and attractions of the trekking depend on the season you choose. 

Spring Season (March-May): Spring is considered the peak trekking season for the Gokyo Lake trek. Spring season provides the perfect frame to explore the endangered Himalayan flora and fauna in the Sagarmatha National Park which looks more attractive during this peak point. The weather condition is stable with moderate temperature and clear blue sky. That's why trekkers prefer this season for the exploration of the glorious glacial lakes.

Summer/monsoon season (June-August): Monsoon season is not that favorable time for trekking in the Himalayas. The high temperature during the day and continuous rain create many obstacles on the trails. Though the trail is challenging in this season, with the right gears and safety the experience is fully wonderful. The freshness in the air after rain, the water-puddle landscapes, nourished lush terrains and cool breezes present a unique and heavenly side of the Himalayan region.

Autumn season (September-November): Autumn is an ideal season for trekking in Nepal and thousands of trekkers prefer this time of the year to visit Nepal. The days are clear presenting the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas vistas and pristine glacial lakes that are something you will treasure for a lifetime. The autumn season’s foliage color of green, yellow, crimson, brown, and gray adds a unique vision to your experience of admiring nature's epic cycle. 

Winter season (December-February): The entire Himalayan region changes in winter wonderland during the winter season. The extreme cold and walking across snow-covered trails can make the journey quite challenging. The entire landscape is covered with thick white fur of snow and the shining peaks show the true magnificence of the Himalayas.  

5. Accommodation and Meals during Gokyo Lake Trek

The prime options for accommodation in the Himalayas are teahouses and lodges. Everest region is a main trekking destination, so the accommodation facilities are quite advanced here. During the trek, you will get warm and comfortable rooms with two beds with all the basic amenities including mattresses, blankets pillows, and a shared bathroom. You can take hot showers in the lower region but as you ascend to a higher region, you have to buy a bucket of hot water for a bath due to remoteness.

The food menus at the tea houses consist of delicious and nutritious food. You can get both Nepalese and Western foods as per the menu. You can enjoy a variety of Nepalese traditional dishes like Dal Bhat, Aloo Tama, Dhindo Gundruk, Thukpa, Shyaphale, Sherpa Stew, Momo, Chowmein, etc. For drinking water, you will get drinkable water throughout the trek and can get boiled water also by paying extra money. 

 

FAQs

The altitude of Gokyo Lake is 4790 m./15711 ft. And Gokyo ri is at 5357 m./17570 ft. from sea level.

It is not mandatory to hire a guide for Gokyo Lake Trek, but it is recommended to go with a guide for safety and to understand the environment and local cultures better.

The Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri trek is moderately difficult.

Travel insurance is not compulsory but we highly recommend it because travel insurance covers the emergency rescue and health costs.

Yes, Gokyo lake is suitable for anyone who has good physical health and preparations.

The Spring season (March to April) and Autumn (September to November) are the best time of the year to enjoy the most amazing views in the Gokyo Lake Trek.

Adventure Hikers is a government-authorized and trustable company. Our very first priority is our client's safety and satisfaction rather than money. So, we provide you with certified, trustable, brave, and well-experienced guides and porters.

Best company in Nepal

My boyfriend and I used to this company to organize our first trek in Nepal. Meeting Sujan was truly a great fortune. He is a very knowledgeable guide who helped...

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Martina A- Italy
April 29, 2024
Unforgettable life time experience

Himalayan trek with Adventure Hikers what a wonderful experience. Sujan has excellent skills in trekking arranging treks making system plan and arrangements.. Truly appreciate and recommend for all your Himalayan treks.

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Sukant- India
April 23, 2024
WE HAD A BEST TREKKING EXPERIENCE IN THIS AGENCY

I used this one of the fabulous Companies in the town whose hospitality level is the best … I highly recommend to all the travel enthusiasts to follow this company and...

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Su z- Nepal
December 14, 2023
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