Overview

Discover the stunning Gokyo Lake region in Nepal with the unforgettable Gokyo Lake Trek. Immerse yourself in the warm-hearted Sherpa culture as you journey through the Sagarmatha National Park, home to unique flora and fauna. At over 5,000m, Gokyo Lake is the world's highest freshwater lake, and you'll cross the high route pass of Cho La at 5,330m for an even more thrilling adventure.

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Khumbu region, including the valleys, forests, waterfalls, and glaciers. The trek showcases some of the world's tallest mountains, such as Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Mt. Makalu (8,463m), and Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m). Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and Nepali and Tibetan villages, gaining a deeper appreciation for their unique traditions and lifestyles.

Destination Unlimited has been providing transportation services and expert guides to explore the Himalayan terrain since 2010. We prioritize your safety and comfort, ensuring an incredible stay in Nepal and unforgettable memories on the Gokyo Lake Trek. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!

Trip Highlights of Gokyo Lake Trekking cost

The Gokyo Lake trek is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine turquoise lakes, and breathtaking mountain views in the Everest region of Nepal. Here are some of the key highlights of the Gokyo Lake trek:

Highlights of Gokyo Lake Trekking

Gokyo Lakes:
- Scenic Beauty: Explore the series of glacial Gokyo Lakes, renowned for their vibrant turquoise color amidst the backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
- Gokyo Ri Viewpoint: Hike up to Gokyo Ri (5360m), a panoramic viewpoint offering stunning vistas of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other surrounding peaks. The sunrise view from Gokyo Ri is particularly awe-inspiring.
Ngozumpa Glacier:
- Largest Glacier: Trek alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, offering dramatic views of ice formations, moraines, and the glacial landscape.
Renjo La Pass (5360m):
- High Mountain Pass: Cross Renjo La Pass, which provides a challenging but rewarding trekking experience with breathtaking views of the Everest region. It offers a unique perspective of the Himalayan panorama compared to other passes.
Sherpa Culture and Villages:
- Namche Bazaar: Explore Namche Bazaar, the bustling market town and cultural hub of the Khumbu region. Experience Sherpa culture, visit monasteries, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this mountain town.
- Local Villages: Pass through traditional Sherpa villages such as Phakding, Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo. Experience warm Sherpa hospitality, traditional architecture, and local lifestyles.
Breathtaking Mountain Views:
- Panoramic Himalayan Views: Enjoy spectacular vistas of some of the world's highest peaks, including Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m), Cho Oyu (8188m), and more.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning landscapes, reflections of the mountains in the crystal-clear lakes, and the play of light and shadow on the Himalayan peaks.
Wildlife and Flora:
- Himalayan Wildlife: Spot Himalayan wildlife such as Himalayan Thar, musk deer, and various bird species along the trekking route.
- Flora: Encounter diverse flora including rhododendrons, pine forests, junipers, and alpine flowers blooming in the spring season.
Tea Houses and Local Cuisine:
- Tea House Accommodation: Stay in cozy tea houses along the route, offering basic lodging and warm Sherpa hospitality. Experience local cuisine such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), and Sherpa stew.

Tips for Gokyo Lake Trekking

Physical Preparation: Train with cardiovascular exercises and hiking practice to build stamina for trekking at high altitudes.
Altitude Acclimatization: Follow a gradual ascent schedule to acclimatize properly and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Best Time to Trek: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal seasons for trekking due to clear skies, favorable weather conditions, and moderate temperatures.
Permits: Obtain necessary permits such as the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card before starting the trek.
Pack Essentials: Carry trekking gear, layers of clothing for varying temperatures, a sleeping bag, toiletries, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
Respect Local Culture: Respect local customs, traditions, and the environment. Leave no trace and minimize your impact on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

The Gokyo Lake trek promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Everest region, combining stunning natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude trekking challenges.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1300 m)
Day 02: Kathmandu: Half Day Sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2,850 m), trek to Phakding (2,652 m): 3 - 4 hours
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m): 5 - 6 hours
Day 05: Namche Bazaar: acclimatization
Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Village (3810 m): 5 - 6 hours
Day 07: Phortse Village to Machharmo(4,470 m): 5 - 6 hours
Day 08: Machharmo to Gokyo (4800 m): 5 - 6 hours
Day 09: Gokyo Valley: Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m) and hike to fifth lakes: 5 - 6 hours
Day 10: Gokyo to Dole: 3 - 4 hours
Day 11: Dole to Namche Bazaar: 4 - 5 hours
Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla: 6 - 8 hours.
Day 13: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 14: Final departure

Itineraries

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 :Arrive in Kathmandu (1300 m) Upon your arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The afternoon will be free for you to get a first taste of Nepali life in Kathmandu. Over night at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02 :Kathmandu: Half Day Sightseeing and trek preparation Today we will take a tour around the city of Kathmandu, visiting the one of major world heritage sites such as; Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square. You will be guided and informed by a licensed guide. Over night at Kathmandu.
Day 03 :Fly to Lukla (2,850 m), trek to Phakding (2,652 m): 3 - 4 hours We fly to Lukla or Manthali Airport, Ramechhap( 4 hours Drive from Kathmandu) through the glorious Himalayas and landing at one of the world’s most unique airport on our third day of the journey. We then trek for 3-4-hour trek along few water streams and come across a couple of Buddhist monasteries before reaching the village of Phakding. Over night at tea-house Lodge.
Day 04 :Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m): 5 - 6 hours After our breakfast, we start our day by trekking along Dudh Koshi River. We cross some suspension bridges to enter Sagarmatha National Park. After few hours of the trek through the lush Himalayan forest, we reach the village of Namche Bazaar. Over night at Tea-house Lodge
Day 05 :Namche Bazaar: acclimatization In the Sherpa market town of Namche Bazaar, we will catch our first glimpse of Everest. We will spend an extra day here to acclimatize. Later, we hike up to Hotel Everest View to relish the stunning view of the Himalayas featuring Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and the other gigantic Himalayas. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 06 :Namche Bazaar to Phortse Village (3810 m): 5 - 6 hours We start our day with a pleasant walk to the traditional Sherpa village Phorte. We trek through some alpine Himalayan forests with the view of Ama Dablam, Cho-Oyu, and Khumbila. We cross a suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phortse. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 07 :Phortse Village to Machharmo(4,470 m): 5 - 6 hours Trekking through an easy grassy path, we pass several water streams, waterfalls, bridges, and forests till we reach Sherpa villages of Lhabarma and Luza. We enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Cho Oyu as we climb up a couple of ridges and reach Machharmo. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 08 :Machharmo to Gokyo (4800 m): 5 - 6 hours We have a relatively steep climb to begin the day. Due to the altitude, we may experience altitude sickness. However, we will have the beautiful view of the Himalayas to compensate our struggle. Trekking along the moraine of Ngozumpa Glacier, we reach marvelous Dudh Pokhari Lake. We trek for a couple of hours to reach Gokyo. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 09 :Gokyo Valley: Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m) and hike to fifth lakes: 5 - 6 hours Chasing the outstanding view of gargantuan mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam, Pumori, Thamserku, Khangteka, Tensum Khang Gunnel, and Cho La Che, we climb up the stunning Gokyo Ri viewpoint. Gokyo Ri hosts the spectacular view of the aforementioned Himalayas. We then hike towards the five lakes in this region before trekking downhill to Gokyo valley. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 10 :Gokyo to Dole: 3 - 4 hours Trekking along some lush forests, steep ridges, and water streams, we cross a wooden bridge over Dudh Koshi River. We trek for an hour or two after crossing the bridge and reach Dole. Dole offers us an immersive experience of the culture of Sherpa people. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 11 :Dole to Namche Bazaar: 4 - 5 hours We trek downhill along Dudh Koshi River enjoying the magnificent panorama of the Himalayas like Ama Dablam(6812m), Cho Oyu (8201m), and Everest till we cross a suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, we trek for few hours and reach Namche Bazaar. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 12 :Namche Bazaar to Lukla: 6 - 8 hours. On our final day of hiking, we will enjoy the vista of majestic mountains, serene nature and traditional villages as we make our way to Luckla. Trekking through rhododendron forest, we pass some steep ridges while recall the great experiences we have just shared in our trek. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 13 :Fly to Kathmandu The last day involves flying back to Kathmandu (35 mins), checking into the hotel. The rest of the time in the capital city can be used to buy souvenirs and enjoy the sights and sounds before departing. Evening farewell Cultural Dinner. Over night at tea-house Lodge
Day 14 :Final departure As per flight schedule our company representative will take you to the airport. In case our country has enchanted you so much you desire to further explore, we are always there to extend your trip.

Cost Details

Cost Includes

All airport transfers
Accommodation in Kathmandu
Farewell Dinner
Tea-house Lodge during the Trekking
Experience, Government Licensed English-speaking Guide
Porters : 2 Member one porter
Domestic Airfare/ Ktm-Luckla-Ktm. Airport Tax
All your standard Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trekking.
Every meals cup of tea or coffee
All Trekking permits and Necessary documents
Sleeping bag, Down Jacket( If Necessary) & Duffle bag by company
Staff insurance, medication and equipment,
First Aid Kit and Special Care
Rescue arrangements for our clients
All Govt. and Local Taxes
Trekking Certificate from Destination Unlimited Treks

Cost Excludes

International airfares
Travel/trekking insurance
Kathmandu sightseeing Entrance fees
Nepal entry visa fees.
Khumbu Tax Worth 20$
Mountain rescue charges or insurance
Bottled drinks on trek (cold and alcoholic) and Hot Drinks
Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu.
Additional food or drink on trek in addition to three standard meals
Personal expenses, Emergency Expenses, road blocked, snakes, desert.etc
Tips, Hot Showers
Which is not mentions in Cost Included Section.

Reviews

Rated 5/5 based on 1 reviews

Benjamin Ho
MalaysiaPublished: Sunday, June 02, 2019

GOKYO AND ITS LAKES

Rating:

Superb trek as it was my first time visiting the Everest Region. Been watching documentaries about Lukla Airport and being there for the very first time myself was simply breathtaking. Being able to go beyond 5000m and safely back was an achievement for myself. Thankful for great weather along the trek, except for a slight hiccup at the end of the trek, stranded at Lukla for a day. Overall, the trip was fun, an eye-opener and it was always great with Dev (our guide), MaMaR, and Padam. Thanks again to Mr Ashok for arranging everything for us, including the short escapade to Bhaktapur and Nagarkot during our last 2 days. Continue to keep up the good service and God bless!

FAQs

1. What is the Gokyo Lake trek?

The Gokyo Lake trek is a scenic trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal, renowned for its pristine turquoise lakes, stunning mountain views, and cultural experiences. It typically includes visits to Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri viewpoint, and Renjo La Pass.

2. How long does the Gokyo Lake trek take?

The Gokyo Lake trek usually takes around 12-14 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization needs. This duration includes trekking to Gokyo Lakes, exploring the region, and returning via the same or alternative routes.

3. What are the highlights of the Gokyo Lake trek?

Gokyo Lakes: Explore the series of turquoise lakes amidst the Himalayan peaks.
Gokyo Ri: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5360m) for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Renjo La Pass: Cross Renjo La Pass (5360m) for stunning mountain vistas.
Sherpa Culture: Experience Sherpa hospitality and visit traditional villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung.

4. When is the best time to do the Gokyo Lake trek?

The best times to trek to Gokyo Lakes are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather conditions, and comfortable temperatures for trekking.

5. What permits are required for the Gokyo Lake trek?

Trekkers need permits such as the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained through registered trekking agencies or at the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

6. How difficult is the Gokyo Lake trek?

The Gokyo Lake trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves trekking at high altitudes (up to 5360m at Gokyo Ri and Renjo La Pass), with some steep ascents and descents. Proper physical fitness and acclimatization are crucial.

7. What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Gokyo Lake trek?

Accommodation along the Gokyo Lake trek route includes basic tea houses or lodges. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Hot showers may be available in some places for an additional cost.

8. Do I need a guide or porter for the Gokyo Lake trek?

While it's not mandatory to have a guide or porter, many trekkers opt to hire them for assistance with navigation, carrying gear, and providing local insights. Guides can enhance the cultural experience, while porters lighten the load for trekkers.

9. What should I pack for the Gokyo Lake trek?

Essential items to pack include trekking gear (sturdy boots, clothing layers), a sleeping bag, toiletries, sunscreen, sunglasses, a first aid kit, snacks/energy bars, and sufficient cash for expenses along the route.

10. Is altitude sickness a concern on the Gokyo Lake trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Gokyo Lake trek due to the high altitudes reached (over 5000m). It's important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Immediate descent may be necessary if symptoms worsen.