Embark on a journey that promises to unveil some of the most incredible natural marvels. From picturesque Sherpa villages to lush rhododendron forests, glacier moraines, and alpine Gokyo Lakes, the landscapes change dramatically and only get more captivating as you trek through the Gokyo Valley.
Gokyo Lake Trek Overview
If you're in Nepal or planning a trip there, the Gokyo Lake Trek is a must-consider. This trek offers a unique perspective of the Khumbu region, distinct from the more popular EBC Trek. Its pristine, less-crowded nature sets it apart, making it a raw and unspoiled adventure.
Prepare to witness the true magnificence of the Himalayas on the Gokyo Lake trek. This 14-day adventure in Nepal is not just about exploring the country's rich cultural heritage and travelling to the mountains. It's about pushing your limits, experiencing the warm hospitality of local communities, and feeling the thrill of the journey. You will discover the rich vegetation of Sagarmatha National Park and gradually pass by various remote villages.
The journey is adventurous, thrilling, and packed with majestic views of snow-capped mountains.
Gokyo Lake Trek Highlights
- Gokyo Lake Trek is adventurous amidst towering mountains and beautiful valleys in the Himalayas
- Explore the raw and unspoiled part of the Khumbu region
- Trek through lush rhododendron forests and glacier moraines
- Spend nights in lovely Sherpa villages and get to see their daily life and practices closely
- It is a perfect trek for those looking for a tranquil trip in the Everest region
- Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes and witness a gorgeous sunrise and mountain vista from Gokyo Ri
- Enjoy diverse landscapes and mountain panoramas throughout the trail
Major attractions of the Gokyo Lake trek
Experience the thrilling Lukla flight
The Gokyo Lake trek begins and ends with the Lukla flight. It is a short flight that you will trek from either Kathmandu Airport or Ramechhap Airport. The flight will be scenic. The location of the Lukla airport makes it one of the most famous airports in the world.
Explore beautiful Sherpa villages
The Gokyo Lake trek route goes through the homes of the Sherpa community. You will also meet with other mountain communities, like Lama, Rai, Limbu, Bhotiya, etc. These communities run the lodges. The locals are welcoming and friendly. Likewise, the villages are charming, as are picture books.
Adventurous trail
The Gokyo Valley trail is inside Sagarmatha National Park, home to many flora and fauna. From the trail's starting point to Gokyo Ri, you will traverse different climatic zones and terrain, allowing you to experience various vegetation and environments.
Ample acclimatization days and exciting hikes
Our Gokyo Valley trek itinerary includes two rest days: Namche Bazaar and Gokyo Village. On both acclimatization days, you will go on exciting side hikes. You will visit the Hotel Everest View in Namche Bazaar and hike to Gokyo Ri in Gokyo village.
Explore the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri
As we mentioned earlier, the Gokyo Lakes are high-altitude lakes with religious significance. They are known for their magnificence and beauty. Likewise, Gokyo Ri is known for its view of Everest and other mountains. The journey to these destinations presents an adrenaline boost to adventure lovers and a sense of enormous achievement.
Witness stunning mountain views and landscapes
The 14-day Gokyo Valley trek provides beautiful landscapes from start to finish. It offers an excellent view of the Himalayas' lush and barren sides. Every part of the trail is dotted with peaks and mountains. Once above the tree line, you will even see glaciers.
Enjoy the tranquillity and offbeat terrain and make memories to cherish forever
The Gokyo Valley trek is a lifetime experience in Nepal. Travellers who want to go off the grid and enjoy tranquillity while not missing out on basic accommodation and meal services will love this trek. Every day will surprise you with something new. There will be no dull moments. Plus, our crew will keep you entertained with their company.
Visit historical sites in Kathmandu
On the second last day of the trip, we have included a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. You will spend the day with one of our professional tour guides exploring different tourist sites in Kathmandu, such as Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The tour will provide a great insight into Nepali culture and traditions.
Things to expect the Gokyo Lake Trek
The key feature of the Gokyo Lake trek is the Gokyo Lakes, one of the highest freshwater systems in the Himalayas, ranging from 4,700 meters to 5,000 meters. There are 19 Gokyo Lakes within this range, 6 of which are the leading lakes.
The Gokyo Village is near the third Gokyo Lake, called Dudh Pokhari. It is a beautiful village. You can also hike to the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes. The fifth Gokyo Lake is located near Mt. Cho Oyu Base Camp, and trekkers rarely visit it. You will spend an acclimatization day in Gokyo village, and for an acclimatization hike, walk up to Gokyo Ri. Gokyo Ri is the highest point of the Gokyo Lake trek. It is a viewpoint known for offering a spectacular panorama of Mt. Everest.
Mountains like Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Island Peak (6,165 m/20,226 ft), Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), Cho Oyu (8,188 m/26,864 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), Thamserku (6,608 m/21,680 ft), and numerous others are visible throughout the trail.
The Gokyo Lake trek offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush valleys to barren hills, rocky peaks, and glaciers. But it's not just the scenery that's diverse. The trek also provides an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle and culture of different mountain communities, experiencing their warm hospitality and hearing their stories.
Embrace their company and hear their stories. You will be amazed to see how happy and content they are with their lives. You will reach Gokyo village on day eight of trekking. While trekking from Machhermo to Gokyo village, you will traverse the moraine of the biggest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa Glacier. Standing face-to-face with a vast glacier will be quite an iconic moment. Due to the trail conditions, trekkers sometimes have to use crampons and ropes to walk through the moraine.
Some reasons to do the Gokyo Lake Trek
We love the Gokyo Lake trek in the Everest, Khumbu region. You will travel close to Mount Everest, and this trek route offers a much better view.
If your fitness allows, combine Renjo La or Cho La pass in your itinerary to witness an even more astonishing view of Everest and other mountains. Crossing one of these passes is also a considerable achievement and makes your journey much more adventurous. The Gokyo Lake trek route is a bit offbeat, so we recommend those trekkers who have done simple treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley, or Mardi Himal previously. Beginner trekkers may join the Gokyo Valley trek if they have the required fitness.
Join Outfitter Himalaya for the Gokyo Lake trek
Our Gokyo Lake Trek bookings are open. Likewise, you can book the Gokyo Valley Trek with Outfitter Himalaya. We have a safe payment gateway for quick booking and minimal payment deposit. You do not have to worry about your money with us because we are a genuine Nepali trek and tour company with an outstanding reputation. Our extensive experience allows foreigners to enjoy international-level travel support in Nepal.
You will do the Gokyo Valley trek with a native guide and porter. We will arrange all the logistics so you can focus on the journey. Contact us if you have questions regarding the Gokyo Valley trek cost or wish to tailor the trip.
- Day 01: Welcome at the Kathmandu airport and transfer to your hotel
- Day 02: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
- Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 04: Acclimatization day and hike to the Hotel Everest View
- Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole
- Day 06: Trek from Dole to Machhermo
- Day 07: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo Village
- Day 08: Acclimatization and hike to Gokyo Ri
- Day 09: Trek from Gokyo Village to Dole
- Day 10: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
- Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Day 12: Flight to Kathmandu
- Day 13: Buffer/Full-day tour in Kathmandu
- Day 14: Transfer to airport
Find the detailed itinerary of Gokyo Lake trek for 14 days. This 14-day itinerary includes your arrival and departure days to and from Nepal. If you are already in Nepal and just want to take book the trekking part or need customized program, let us know.
Upon arrival, our officials will welcome you to the Tribhuvan International Airport. After a short meet-and-greet, they will load your luggage into the car and drive you to the hotel.
We do not have anything planned for this day. Pack your great to start the trek tomorrow morning.
You will leave your hotel in the morning and drive to Kathmandu or Ramechhap Airport to catch the Lukla flight. During peak seasons, Lukla flights depart from Ramechhap Airport instead of Kathmandu Airport. Driving to this airport takes around 4 to 5 hours. So, you will leave your hotel quite early.
Once you land at Lukla, you will trek to Phakding with your guide. The trail follows the mountainsides and gradually descends along the Dudh Koshi River. It passes through rhododendron forests and small villages, and you will cross many suspension bridges.
Leaving Phakding, you will follow the Dudh Koshi River through lush forests of rhododendrons and magnolia. You will pass by small villages and reach Monjo.
We will register our trekking permits in Monjo at the check post. From here, we are officially inside the Sagarmatha National Park. The trail steeply ascends to Namche Bazaar. We have to be careful and maintain our pace.
Acclimatization day is needed to avoid altitude sickness during trekking in the Himalayas. You will spend the first rest day in Namche Bazaar. In the morning, we will hike to the Everest View, from which you will see the first clear view of Mt. Everest, along with Lhotse and Nuptse. After the hike, you will rest the remaining day in Namche Bazaar.
The trail from Namche Bazaar ascends the Dudh Koshi river valley. Follow a downhill route and enter a dense forest of rhododendrons and pine shortly afterward.
Trekking through the forest, you will cross the river and trek on a narrow route to Mong. From here, you will continue walking to Dole, enjoying excellent views of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and others.
The trail from Dole to Machhermo is steep and rugged. It is a short walking day, so you will have plenty of time to rest and recover. Trekking on a rough and steep route, ascend towards Machhermo.
On the way, you will also walk on steep grasslands. The views of Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Ama Dablam, Island Peak, etc., are lovely.
It is a gradual ascent from Machhermo to Gokyo village. The trail first ascends and takes you to high terrain. You will trek past an isolated lake and come across the Ngozumpa glacier moraine, the biggest glacier in Nepal. Walk through the moraine and trek past the first to Gokyo Lakes.
Soon, you will reach the third Gokyo Lake and the Gokyo village. The village's location makes it seem to stand still in time, with stunning scenery.
In the morning, we will hike to Gokyo Ri. It is a viewpoint that offers a crazy panorama of Mount Everest and many other peaks like Cho Oyu, Makalu, Island Peak, Nuptse, Lhotse, Cholatse, etc. You will also get to see an outstanding sunrise from here.
After breakfast, you will leave Gokyo village and descend to Dole. The trail is the same as before. First, you will walk down to Machhermo. From here, follow steep tracks to Dole for the night stay. The mountain views are stunning on the way.
From Dole, the trail steeply descends to Phortse. It takes around one and a half hours to walk there. From here, we will climb a series of stairs to Mong La and continues trekking on a rocky trail to Mongla village. The trail then descends to Kyangjuma and continues to Namche Bazaar along uneven hillsides.
Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will follow a steep downhill route through lush forests and small settlements to Phakding. From here, ascend, crossing numerous suspension bridges to Lukla.
Today, you will fly back to Kathmandu. The flight will be short and scenic. Upon landing at the airport, transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day in Kathmandu as you wish.
You will spend this day in Kathmandu exploring some tourist sites. Our tour guide will take you to Monkey Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These monuments present a glimpse of Nepali culture, art, and architecture.
Note: This day also may use if we need any day on the trek or if we get any delayed or cancelation on our Lukla flights due to bad weather conditions.
Our team will drop you off at the international airport upon your flight departure. We hope you enjoyed your trip to Nepal with us.
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Three nights (2-3 star) Accommodations in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Kathmandu Sightseeing tour
- Meals during the Trek with hot tea/coffee for breakfast
- Sagarmatha National Park entry permits and TIMS permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fees
- Domestic Flight Ticket (Kathmandu/Manthali -Lukla-Kathmandu/Manthali) with domestic airport tax
- Guest House/Tea House Accommodation during the Trek on twin shared basis
- An experienced, knowledgeable and helpful local trekking guide
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (which will be paid for by the travel insurance company)
- Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffel bag, if necessary (returned after the trek)
- Seasonal fruits after dinner while on the trek
- Trip completion certificate, if you need
- T-shirt and trekking map
- A farewell dinner
- First Aid and oximeter
- Official expenses and service charge
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Trekking Porter/s (available on Add-on)
- Meals (Lunch and Dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
- Your personnel expenses/shopping
- All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, drink water, chocolate bars and bar bills
- Hot shower, internet, telephone, and laundry
- Entrance fee on Kathmandu tour (NPR 2600.00)
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Tips for the guide and staff
- Anything not mentioned in the included section
Hire a Trekking porter
We suggest you to hire a porter to carry your bag pack while on trek, trekking with a light day pack is much easier and you enjoy your trekking holidays to the fullest. A trekking porter carries about 20-22 Kg (about 10-11 Kg from each of you), and we suggest to hire a porter in between of two trekkers.
Are the dates offered unsuitable, or do you want to take a private trip? Check availability for your date.
Gokyo Lake Trek Preparation
After you inquiry for the Gokyo Lake trek, our team will contact you and assess your fitness. They will let you know whether you are fit enough for this trek. If not, you will exercise and improve your stamina and strength before the trek begins.
Physical preparation is key to a successful Gokyo Lake trek. You'll be trekking for an average of 6-7 hours a day, so regular walking and other cardio activities like cycling, swimming, running, and hiking are essential to build your stamina and endurance. This preparation will not only make you physically fit but also mentally ready for the adventure that lies ahead.
With physical preparation, you will also work on arranging the trekking clothes and gear. You can buy all trekking equipment in Kathmandu, Nepal. Moreover, the most expensive gear is available to rent as well. Follow our Gokyo Lake trek packing checklist and start getting the required items.
*Note: Buy your trekking boots early and get used to them. It will help you avoid blisters while trekking.
Trekkers who want to combine the EBC with their Gokyo Lake trek itinerary can let us know, we have EBC Cho La Pass and Gokyo Trek. We will customize the itinerary to fit their fitness level. Likewise, you can combine a helicopter flight with your trip. For instance, you can take a helicopter flight from Gokyo village to Lukla or Kathmandu. The per-head cost varies depending on the pickup and drop-off location. We have the best helicopter flight fair in the market on a share basis.
Best Time for Gokyo Lake Trek
March to May and late September to mid-December are the best times to trekking in Gokyo Valley. But, if you are ice skating, trek to the Gokyo Lakes in January or February, when the lakes are frozen and open for ice skating. Trust us; you will always remember the magnificence of the Himalayas in the winter season.