Gokyo Lake Trek Highlights
- Turquoise Glacial Lakes: Discover six stunning high-altitude lakes in the Gokyo Valley.
- Panoramic Summit Views: Reach Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) for breathtaking vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
- Nepal’s Largest Glacier: Traverse the Ngozumpa Glacier, a colossal ice formation.
- Sherpa Heritage: Explore traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and experience local warmth.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot Himalayan Thar, musk deer, and rare birds in their natural habitat.
- Solitude and Serenity: Enjoy quieter trails compared to the bustling Everest Base Camp route.
- Dramatic Landscapes: Marvel at alpine valleys, snow-capped peaks, and dramatic terrains.
The Gokyo Lake Trek offers a unique alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp trek, providing trekkers with stunning views of Everest and the chance to stay in the iconic town of Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu Region.
The route to the Gokyo Lakes is less crowded but still offers insights into local village life, with views of icy rivers, stony glacier debris, snow-capped mountains, and the dazzling turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes.
The Gokyo Lakes consist of six bodies of water located at altitudes between 4700 and 5000 meters in the Gokyo Valley, within the Sagarmatha National Park. These lakes are the world’s highest freshwater lake system and are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. According to Lonely Planet, “the Gokyo Valley is the most spectacular in the Khumbu.”
By spending an extra day in the Gokyo Valley, you can visit the 5th and 6th lakes in a high alpine bowl at the foot of Cho Oyu, the world’s 6th highest mountain.
You should expect to walk around 5 hours a day, with highlights including a steep climb up to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) for views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. The Ngozumpa Glacier and its ice ridges are also on display. If walking 5 hours a day is not feasible, consider a helicopter tour.
To acclimatize before heading to Gokyo Ri and the Gokyo Valley, spend time in Namche Bazaar, where you can trek to nearby Khumjung Village to visit the school established by Sir Edmund Hillary, who, along with Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, was the first to summit Mount Everest.
Namche Bazaar has since become a vibrant market town where you can share trekking stories with other travelers.
Why Choose the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
- Spectacular Views: Enjoy unparalleled vistas of snow-capped peaks and glacier-fed lakes.
- Quiet Trails: Experience a serene trekking environment with fewer crowds.
- Cultural Riches: Immerse yourself in Sherpa traditions and visit monasteries in remote villages.
- Adventure: The trek’s high-altitude trails and challenging climbs are ideal for thrill-seekers.
Itinerary
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you'll be greeted by a representative who will assist you to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district. This central location is perfect for exploring the city's restaurants, bars, and shops filled with local crafts and trekking gear. You'll also have the chance to meet your guide and address any last-minute questions about your upcoming Everest Base Camp adventure.
Begin your journey with an early morning flight to Lukla, one of the world's highest airports. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you fly into the Sherpa homeland. Upon arrival, embark on a moderate 3-hour trek to Phakding, crossing suspension bridges and passing by monasteries and mani walls. Phakding, a quaint village at 2,610 meters, offers a serene environment for your first night's stay and acclimatization.
After breakfast, trek through undulating terrain to the bustling market town of Namche Bazaar. En route, you'll enter Sagarmatha National Park, cross more suspension bridges, and traverse rhododendron forests. Namche Bazaar, at 3,440 meters, is a vibrant hub and a crucial acclimatization stop, offering a glimpse into Sherpa culture and lifestyle.
Take it easy to adjust to the altitude.建议您 take short walks around Namche, perhaps visiting the Everest View Hotel for stunning views, or exploring Khumjung village, known for its hospital, school, and ancient monastery. Don't forget to stock up on supplies in the local shops before continuing your trek.
Depart from Namche and trek through the scenic Dudh Koshi valley. The trail offers views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Thamserku as you pass through forests and small villages like Mong. Arrive in Dole, a charming village at 4,090 meters, for the night.
Trek through juniper scrub on a steep but rewarding path to Machhermo. The trail provides panoramic views of Thamserku and the Dudh Koshi River. Machhermo, at 4,470 meters, is a tranquil village offering a cultural immersion into Sherpa life and a key acclimatization point.
Trek to Gokyo, passing through a narrow valley leading to the Ngozumpa Glacier and the first Gokyo lake. Enjoy lunch by the lake before ascending to Gokyo Ri for a spectacular sunset view of the mountains and lakes.
Take a morning hike to the 4th Gokyo Lake, a flat trail offering stunning views. After exploring, return to Gokyo for breakfast and then head back to Machhermo.
Trek back down to Lukla, following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing the suspension bridges once more. Arrive in Lukla to prepare for your flight back to Kathmandu the next day.
Trek back down to Lukla, following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing the suspension bridges once more. Arrive in Lukla to prepare for your flight back to Kathmandu the next day.
A short flight from Lukla brings you back to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day exploring the city or shopping for gifts.
Our representative will accompany you to the airport for your departure. If you're extending your stay in Nepal, we wish you a fantastic continued journey and are here to help plan your next adventure!