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Trekkers enjoying panoramic mountain views from Gokyo Ri with turquoise Gokyo lakes below

Gokyo Lakes Trek

Region: Everest
Max Altitude: 5,357m/17,570ft
Duration: 13 Days
Trek Grade: Medium to hard
Trail Access: Flight (Ktm - Lukla - Ktm)
Best Season: Sept to Dec, Mar to May
Trekking Style: Tea House & Hotel
Group Size: Min 1 to Max 12 Pax
Start/Finish: Kathmandu (via Lukla flight)

Overview

The Gokyo Lakes Trek, a rewarding adventure in Nepal's Everest region, is known for its incredible scenery. This package is an excellent alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route, appealing to travelers who prefer a quieter and less crowded experience. The multi-day itinerary combines high-altitude hiking, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive Sherpa cultural experiences, making it one of the best adventures in Nepal for those seeking both nature and culture.

This guided journey takes you through pristine alpine valleys and along the iconic Gokyo Lakes trail. You will pass by sacred turquoise lakes, cross the immense Ngozumpa Glacier, and visit authentic Sherpa villages and monasteries. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. The trek duration and moderate difficulty level make it a suitable choice for those with good fitness who want a slower-paced but equally rewarding expedition.

A major highlight is the climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), the most famous viewpoint in the region. This peak offers sunrise views of four 8,000m summits, including Mount Everest, and the longest glacier in Nepal. Proper acclimatization is built into the itinerary for a safe and enjoyable experience at high altitude, with overnight stays in the Gokyo village. The adventure starts with a scenic flight to Lukla, and follows a route through Sherpa settlements and rhododendron forests.

The best time for this trek is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies and optimal mountain views. Trekkers stay in cozy teahouse accommodation, where Sherpa hospitality and local meals add to the experience. For those seeking a greater challenge, there is an option to extend the trip with the Everest Base Camp route via the Cho La Pass.

Whether you are planning this Himalayan journey or looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trip is a hidden gem. From glacial lakes to high mountain passes, the Gokyo Lakes adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that beautifully balances nature, culture, and high-altitude trekking in Nepal.

Highlights

  • Trek to the tranquil Gokyo Lakes, some of the highest freshwater lakes in the world
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu
  • Climb to the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for breathtaking sunrise views of the Himalayas
  • Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture and explore traditional villages
  • Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and interact with local Sherpas along the way
  • Cross the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier
  • Explore the vibrant market of Namche Bazaar, the bustling gateway to the Everest region
  • Walk across the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge over the Dudh Koshi River
  • Trek through the stunning Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Experience the serenity and solitude of the Gokyo Valley away from the crowds

Route Map

Upcoming Departures

Trip Dates Duration Availability Cost per Person
Oct 16, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Oct 19, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Oct 23, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Oct 26, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Oct 30, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 2, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 6, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 9, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 13, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 16, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 20, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 23, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 27, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now
Nov 30, 2025 13 Days Available $1,435 USD Book Now

Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,428ft)

Arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. After your arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel to relax. In the evening, attend a trek briefing to prepare for your Gokyo Trek adventure.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 2: Flight to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383ft) & Trek to Phakding (2,652m / 8,698ft)

Drive Time: 4 hours (Kathmandu to Ramechhap)

Flight Time: 15 minutes from Ramechhap | Trek Duration: 3–4 hours

Take a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. Your trek begins as you descend through Chaurikharka Village, following the Dudh Koshi River to the charming village of Phakding.

Overnight: Teahouse in Phakding

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Today, you'll cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and enter Sagarmatha National Park. Ascend through dense forests, with magnificent views of Everest and surrounding peaks, before reaching Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft), the gateway to Everest and the heart of the Sherpa region.

Overnight: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Rest day for acclimatization. To help adjust to the altitude, you'll hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m / 12,730ft). From here, enjoy panoramic views of Everest (8,848m / 29,029ft), Lhotse (8,516m / 27,939ft), and Ama Dablam (6,856m / 22,493ft). In the afternoon, you can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum or explore Namche Bazaar.

Overnight: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar

Day 5: Trek to Dole (4,110m / 13,484ft)

Trek Duration: 6 hours

Today's trek begins in Namche with a gradual climb on a trail that runs high above the Dudh Koshi Canyon. Along the way, enjoy great views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Everest. You will stop for lunch at a small hilltop village before descending through rhododendron forests. The path then ascends gradually to Dole, with a stop in the tranquil village of Phortse Tenga (3,810m / 12,500ft), which is nestled among the Khumbu's towering peaks. Keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife in the forests as you walk.

Overnight: Teahouse in Dole

Day 6: Trek to Machhermo (4,410m / 14,468ft)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Today is a relatively short day of trekking through the high alpine country above the tree line. The gradual ascent offers impressive views of Cho Oyu (8,188m / 26,864ft) far up the canyon, as well as Machermo Peak to the west and Cholatse to the east. As you continue through this stunning landscape, you will feel the effects of the increasing altitude, but the incredible views will make the effort worthwhile. The slower pace of today's trek is crucial for proper acclimatization, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable

Overnight: Teahouse in Machhermo

Day 7: Trek to Gokyo (4,910m / 16,109ft)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Today's trek leads you into the stunning Gokyo Valley (4,800m / 15,748ft), home to the magnificent Ngozumpa Glacier. The valley contains six glacial lakes, each more beautiful than the last. You will follow the Dudh Koshi River upstream through a fairly open canyon. As the trail skirts the glacier's terminal moraine and runs parallel to its lateral moraine, you will reach the first of the Gokyo Lakes. It's an easy walk from the first lake to the second, and then finally to the village of Gokyo, where you can enjoy the surrounding peaks.

Overnight: Teahouse in Gokyo

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Gokyo

Today begins with an early morning hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft). From this vantage point, you'll witness a spectacular sunrise and panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The incredible sight of a massive glacier below makes the experience unforgettable. After descending, you can explore the isolated Fifth Lake before relaxing for the rest of the day at the teahouse.

Overnight: Teahouse in Gokyo

Day 9: Trek to Dole (4,110m / 13,484ft)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Today, you descend from Gokyo, trekking along the Ngozumpa Glacier with stunning views of Cholatse (6,440m / 21,129ft) and Taboche (6,542m / 21,466ft). You will spend the night at Dole (4,200m / 13,780ft), a small settlement where you can rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Overnight: Teahouse in Dole

Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft)

Trek Duration: 6 hours

Today, you retrace your steps back towards Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft), passing through pine and rhododendron forests. Along the way, you might encounter wildlife such as the Himalayan tahr and pheasants. Enjoy your last night in Namche Bazaar.

Overnight: Teahouse in Namche Bazaar

Day 11: Trek to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383ft)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Today, you will complete your trek by retracing your steps to Lukla (2,800m / 9,186ft), crossing suspension bridges and enjoying the views one last time. Celebrate your achievements with your fellow trekkers.

Overnight: Teahouse in Lukla

Day 12: Flight to Kathmandu

Flight Time: 35 minutes

Fly back to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,428ft) after a memorable trek. You can rest at your hotel or take the opportunity to explore the city's cultural sights, such as Durbar Square or the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple).

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Today is your final day in Nepal. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. We'll make sure you arrive with plenty of time. As we say our goodbyes, we wish you safe travels and hope you cherish the memories and photographs from your adventure.

What's Included?

  • All airport transfers in Kathmandu (arrival and departure)
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu)
  • 2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Teahouse accommodation with meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Daily hot drinks – Tea, Coffee, or Hot Chocolate (3 times) while trekking
  • Trekking permits – Sagarmatha National Park Permit & Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
  • English-speaking, government-licensed trek guide
  • Porters for carrying personal gear and group equipment (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Everest region trekking map
  • Staff costs covered – Salary, insurance, equipment, transport, food & accommodation
  • All government and local taxes

What's Not Included?

  • Nepal Entry Visa: Visa fees upon arrival at Kathmandu airport (e.g., $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days)
  • Travel Insurance: Mandatory insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation
  • International airfare & airport tax
  • Sightseeing tours (Optional, can be arranged as per request)
  • Trekking equipment (Rental options available in Kathmandu)
  • Tips for trekking staff
  • Personal expenses – Hot showers, battery charging, beverages, desserts, laundry, phone calls
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the included services
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