Gokyo Lake Trek

3 reviewsEverest Gokyo lake trek
Trip Fact:
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • DestinationNepal
  • Max Altitude5,357m / 17575 ft
  • AccommodationHotels in Kathmandu and Guest houses during trekking
  • MealsBreakfast in Kathmandu and All meals during trekking
  • Trip Start/EndLukla
  • Group Size1-30 pax
  • Best SeasonMarch, April, May, September, October and November are the best months.

What to Expect:

  • Wholesome Everest region trekking experience with heavenly glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Hike to Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint in Gokyo at 5,360 metres for striking glimpses of Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Valley, and mountains in the Maha Langur range.
  • Awe-striking glimpses of turquoise Thonak Lake and Dudh Pokhari, the largest and prominent among 19 Gokyo lakes.
  • Hike to beautiful Cho La Pass at 5,368 metres if you wish to visit Everest Base Camp from the Gokyo Lakes trek.
  • Option for customising this trip further to Everest Circuit Trek, crossing all Everest Three High Passes.
  • Less crowded than the classic Everest Base Camp trek route, best for peaceful trekking.
  • Hikes through beautiful villages like Dole and Machhermo with mountains like Tawoche, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku in the background.
  • 100% fixed departures, well-planned itinerary, proper acclimatisation, logistics, and expert trek guides with Dream Himalayan.

Less crowded trek trail in Everest - an ideal hub for Gokyo Lake, which is believed to be the home of Snake God, Naga and the best hiking route for magificent views.

The appealing Himalayan beauty Gokyo Lake Trek offers is so sturdy that it attracts travellers around the world like a flower entices a bee. A picturesque Gokyo village to the north bank of Gokyo Lake, the unspoiled Sherpa lifestyle, and inspiring cultures make the 12 days Gokyo Lake trek a wholesome trip.

The most crowded, visually appealing, thrilling, and adventurous Everest Base Camp trek is everyone's dream. There's no denying that this trek is the best on the earth. But, there's another gem hidden in Khumbu that separates its way from Sansa en route to Tengboche. Yes, the left trail from Sansa takes you to Gem of Khumbu, Gokyo Valley.

Trekkers may argue that the Everest trek and Gokyo Lakes trek give similar experience. But, for genuine high-altitude trekkers, the serenity and peaceful trek to Gokyo lake and the wholesome Everest experience it injects is a top.

Let's explore some points that contribute to making Gokyo Lake trek the best alternative to classic Everest Base Camp Trek.

Gokyo Lake - A Trek to The Highest Lake in Everest

At 4,700 to 5,000 metres in Sagarmatha National Park, there lies 19 freshwater lakes, a family of Gokyo Lakes. The name of Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Lakes were an homage to Gokyo Ri, a prominent viewpoint at 5,484 metres. Hence, making these lakes the highest freshwater lake system in the world.

Thonak Lake, over 160 acres of area, is the largest lake in the Gokyo Lakes system. But, what trekkers usually call Gokyo Lake on the Gokyo Valley trek is Dudh Pokhari, also called Gokyo Cho. It's the second-largest member lake in the system, with an area of 106 acres.

The largest and longest glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier, stretching to a mighty 32 km, is the prominent water feeder for these lakes. The stream of melted snow from Ngozumpa from the east and one from Renjo La pass, from the northwest, reaches Gokyo.

The melting of glaciers due to global warming possesses a vital threat to the existence of Gokyo lake. However, nothing will occur rapidly. The serene Gokyo Lakes awaits you.

Explore the Lakes from Gokyo Ri

The staggering 7,000 trekkers opt for Gokyo Trek every year. If you take this number and the elegance of Gokyo, this number is nowhere near as it should be. But, there's a positive side to this. Genuine trekkers who love peaceful trekking in the world's mountain heaven find Gokyo Valley Trek best.

From Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint in Gokyo offers the complete glimpses of all four 8,000 metres peaks of the Everest region. Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Ama Dablam are all visible from Gokyo Ri. Further, Gokyo Ri offers unobstructed glimpses of countless trekkers' mountains, glaciers, and glacial lakes.

Second, the Everest Three High Passes. Most trekkers to Gokyo Lake trek often find a thrill in crossing Cho La pass. But, many trekkers climb Renjo La, Cho La, stay at Gokyo valley, hike to Kongma La and descend to Namche. Even Everest Circuit Trekkers prefer staying at Gokyo Valley, hiking to Gokyo Ri, and cherishing the heavenly glimpses of the landscape.

Gokyo Lake - A Religious Escapade

Yearly, more than 500 pilgrims set out for the Gokyo Lake trek to revere freshwater and snake deities Shiva and Vishnu. Gokyo being in Khumbu, where everyone practices Buddhism, is a holy shrine for Buddhists. Also, for Hindu pilgrims, Gokyo lake has significant religious beliefs.

Supposed to be the home for Snake God, Naga, the 19 different freshwater lake in Gokyo valley are the home of Shiva and Vishnu. Lord Shiva and his conspicuous figure of Naga rolled on his neck, and Vishnu, the God of Water, is worshipped at Gokyo. The western shore of Gokyo Lakes is where the stone monuments of these gods reside.

Since Buddhism preaches Cause No Harm to Anyone, it has been a boon for flora and fauna. This pious mantra prohibits people from causing any harm to wild animals, flowers, and any monuments.

Itinerary

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We will meet you at Tribhuwan International airport, Kathmandu and transferred to the hotel, after your freshness briefing program for your trekking, overnight at hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 1400m/4593ft

After having breakfast, scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla the trail continues to Phakding which takes 3-4 hours, on the way you see spectacular view of Mt Nupla(5885m), Kusum Kangaru(6367m) and the Mount Kwangde Range. Overnight hotel in Phakding

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2640 m/8661 ft

Today, the trail follows the Sherpa villages and magnificent forests by crossing the Dudh Koshi valley. Along the way, we can explore magnificent view of Kusum Kangru(6369m), Thamserku(6608m), Everest(8848m) and Nuptse (7879 m). Overnight hotel in Namche

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3440m/11286 ft

Today you will be free in Namche Bazaar; you have a short hike up to Khumjung. Visit beautiful market, Sherpa village and of course enjoy with the magnificent views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Kwangde. Overnight at Namche Hotel

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3440m/11286 ft

Take a morning breakfast in Namche. Then we start our walking, today's trail climbs steeply up, we diverse from the trail to Everest Base Camp and head towards Phorste. We walk through beutiful oak and rhodondern forest. It is an amazing experience walking in the shadow of dense trees with mesmerizing views of Everest Himalays. Our trek will continues until we reached to Phorste Thanga. Stay overnight in Phorste

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3680m/12074 ft

The path climbs up a ridge for a wonderful views and down the beautiful sceneries to Kangtega and up towards Cho Oyu and descend to a stream and once more climbs steep to the Ngozumpa glacier (Ngozumpa Glacier is a large persistent body of ice) to reach at Machhermo.

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4470 m/14665 ft

After morning breakfast, our day starts with beautiful walking towards Gokyo valley. We walk slowly up with the plenty of water to stay hydrated. This days is most amazing day of our entire trip, once we arrive in Gokyo, take a rest for a while. And then we explore beautiful Gokyo valley and end up our day. Stay overnight in Gokyo Lake.

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4790 m/ 15715 ft

Ready for mesmerizing sunrise view from Gokyo Ri. Wake up very early in the morning, and ascend up to Gokyo Ri. (5,357m), this is most popular viewpoint of the Everest region. From the top, we will explore astonishing views of Everest Himalayans and colored Gokyo Lake itself.

After spending some memorable time in Gokyo Ri, return to our hotel in Gokyo lake, take a breakfast, then we trek back to Machhermo. Spend tonight at Guest house in Machhermo.  

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4470 m/14665 ft

Early in the morning, take a breakfast and we start our trekking to Namche Bazaar. It takes about 6-7 hours to reach beautiful Sherpa capital Namche, overnight at lodge/guesthouse.

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3440m/ 11286 ft

Today is second last day of our Everest gokyo lake trek in Khumbu. After breakfast, we start our journey for Lukla. Today the trekking path drops sharply all the way down to Lukla by following the Dudh Kosi stream. Overnight stay in hotel in Lukla

  • Hotel/Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2810 m / 9219 ft

Take a early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, which takjes approximately 35 minutes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will drop you to the hotel. Spend your time in the hotel after long trip in the mountain.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1400m/4593 ft

Today, flying back to your home or some other destination. We will drop you to the airport, before 3 hours of your scheduled flight. Hope you had a wonderful time with us, have a wonderful journey.

  • Breakfast

Cost Details

Includes

  •  Airport pick up and drop by car/van/hiace
  • 4 Nights Accommodation in Kathmandu on Bed and Breakfast
  • A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide and transportation.
  • Flight ticket from Kathmandu to Lukla and back to Kathmandu.
  • All accommodation and meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
  • An experienced English-speaking and Government license holder Trekking guide including salary, insurance, flight, food and lodging
  • Trekking porter including salary, insurance, flight, food and lodging ( 1 porter for 2 trekkers basis)
  • All necessary paper works, trekking permits and TIMS card.
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All trekking equipment for trekking staff
  • All government and local taxes

Excludes

  • Nepal entry Visa fee
  • International Airfare and Airport Tax, Sightseeing entry fee for the city tour.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • All Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, bottle, hot shower etc)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • All kind of drinks, hot water, alcoholic and soft drinks.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned in cost include.

Good to Know

Accommodation in Gokyo Lakes Trek

Throughout this Gokyo lake trek, we'll accommodate tea houses. Tea houses en route to the Gokyo valley trek offer decent accommodation services. The meals you'll get will be nutritious and hygienic. Please inform our tour operator before leaving for Gokyo Valley and Lakes trek if you have any dietary allergies and requirements. Also, on request, we'll arrange camping-style accommodation at Gokyo. But, there are limitations on things you can do while camping.

Best Time for Gokyo Lakes Trek

Spring months and Autumn months are the best time for trekking in Nepal. Likewise, the Gokyo trek is best when visited in March, April, and May. Also, September to November is the best window for this trek.

The gentle temperature, no rain, undisturbed viewing, and stable weather conditions makesightseeing from Gokyo Ri the best. Also, Ama Dablam,Thamserku, Tawoche, Kongde, Kusum Kanguru, Cho La Tse scintillates on the best weather days of Spring and Autumn.

Travel insurance for Gokyo Lake Trek

We request each of our valued clients joining Gokyo Lakes Trek for Autumn 2022 purchase travel insurance. The travel insurance compensated for helicopter evacuation, medical bills, and other health issues throughout this trek.

Dream Heaven Adventure only purchases the insurance of Gokyo valley trek guides and porters.

FAQs

  • Q1. What is the climate condition at Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri?

    Weather in the mountains often varies from season to season. Most of the reason the mountain region remains cold. Trekking in the off-season is even more challenging for trekkers. In addition, during summer monsoon seasons there are high chances of landslides and avalanches. In peak seasons the climate becomes less harsh and more comfortable for trekking and outdoor activities. Hence, proper acclimatization and planning prior to the trek can help us to avoid some possibility of climate risk.

  • Gokyo Lakes can be explored throughout the year with some prior preparation. March and April are the best months for marvelous views and stunning weather, where travelers are greeted with various wildflowers, colorful forests, and glorious mountain views. Spring (March-May) and autumn(August-oct) offer photogenic views and make travel easier. These months are suitable for all types of travelers.

  • The pristine Lake of Gokyo not only offers extraordinary views but also accepts solo travelers who are willing to feel the solitude in the wilderness of mountains. Mountain weather is often unpredictable, we advise you to have all the necessary equipment and guidance to accomplish your solo trip successfully.

    Our team ensures with the necessary guidance before planning the trip, pre-explain the challenges you might face during your trek to Gokyo. Online assistance during your trek will be provided and our connection with sherpa people in the Gokyo region can be a plus point for both of us to accomplish your trek. Proper guidance and a trekking plan will help you to accomplish the journey to your desired destination while overcoming the challenges.

  • The standard Gokyo Lakes trek is 14 days long. It includes a day of acclimation at Namche and Gokyo Valley. But, the Gokyo Lakes trek is highly customizable. Trekkers also extend their Gokyo trip to further anticlockwise hikes to Everest Base Camp.

  • Gokyo Lake Trek is a moderate-grade trek. For first-time trekkers, it's arduous to trek to Gokyo. But, experienced trekkers find the Gokyo trekking route comfortable to hike. The long hiking hours each day are tiring. Also, there's a risk of altitude sickness that might decrease the pace of the hike.

Client Reviews

  • Yow Sim
    Yow SimSingapore |May 21, 2018
    TripAdvisor

    Excellent customer services

    Very good experience with Suman and Team of DHA. They have been very helpful since our arrival to departure. Our guide Huparaj is very kind person, who took care of us in our entire trip to ebc. The price they gave us is very reasonable. Will definately comeback for our next trip.

  • J
    Jamie LefrakUnited States |April 15, 2016
    Google

    Short everest trek

    I have been stayed in Kathmandu for my private concern. I found Dream Heaven Adventure which has best schemes to give me my feel. They arranged a great trip to Everest. It was an excellent overall experience. Very helpful people and great company,Don’t forget to explore Himalayan beauty guys!!

  • M
    Mohammad KUnited Arab Emirates |November 24, 2014
    TripAdvisor

    Excellent Everest Trip

    It was excellent experience with Dream Heaven Adventure Pvt. Ltd. The Company is great. Director Suman, the young man is very friendly and has a good eye for detail in his service. The service was extremely professional, and the staffs were terrific. Thanks for all who make our holiday memorable!

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