Gokyo Lakes Trek
The Gokyo Lakes Trek in Nepal is an unforgettable journey that takes you to the famous three turquoise lakes of the Gokyo Valley and the peak of Gokyo Ri. The Gokyo Lakes Trek, also known as the Gokyo Ri Trek, is a thrilling journey in the Everest region of Nepal that is a great alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp trek.
The goal of Gokyo Lakes trek is to reach Gokyo Lake (4,750 m) and climb to the top of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m). The Gokyo Lakes are the highest freshwater lake system globally, providing amazing perspectives. Imagine deep blue lakes surrounded by way of snow-capped Himalayan peaks — the sight is enchanting.
The Gokyo Valley itself is lovely and offers outstanding perspectives of the pristine Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Ngojumpa Glacier (the biggest glacier in Nepal and possibly the largest in the whole Himalayas), and snow-capped peaks such as Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu.
Along the Gokyo Lakes trek, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Sherpa culture, which is closely related to Tibetan culture and society. You can visit Buddhist monasteries, interact with local Sherpa people, and learn about their unique way of life.
While you are trekking to Gokyo Lake, you will come across three glacial lakes, Gokyo Lake is the third lake, and it is the largest of the six lakes in the area. It is known as one of the most memorable places to visit in Nepal as it offers an opportunity to witness the sparkling, pristine blue and green waters together.
After seeing the Gokyo Glacier Lakes, you will also get a chance to climb Gokyo Ri Peak (5,357 m). From Gokyo Ri Summit, more of Everest itself is visible from a slightly greater distance than from Kala Patthar (5,545 m) above Gorak Shep.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek usually starts from Lukla Airport, which is only a 35-minute flight from Kathmandu Airport. The trek passes through the beautiful town of Namche Bazaar, which is the local trade center, and traders from Tibet and other neighboring villages come to sell art objects and goods. The town, maintaining its reputation, is now a tourist hub as it is the gateway to the Himalayas.
After Namche Bazaar, you proceed through the main busy trail to the sleeping Phortse Tenga village and finally passing through Dole and Machhermo to reach your final destination, Gokyo Lake (4,750 m).
Trekking on Gokyo Lake trail can be a bit difficult, as the path to Gokyo Lake and the ascent to Gokyo Ri become higher and higher. But the beautiful views during the trek will make you forget all the difficulties. And when you reach Gokyo, you will be fascinated by the beautiful lake and the magnificent landscape around it.
The next day climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), then you need to continue the trek for a few days to return to Lukla to finish the trek. From Lukla, you will take an early morning flight to Kathmandu, after reaching Kathmandu, rest at your hotel.
If you want to expand the Gokyo Lake trek itinerary, you can add a side trip to Gokyo Fifth Lake or Tengboche Monastery, or both. These are good places to visit in the area, but need a few extra days.
15 days Gokyo Lakes Trek includes 10 days trekking (or 11 days from Kathmandu), one day sightseeing and one day rest in Kathmandu, two days for arrival and departure from Kathmandu.
Gokyo Lakes Trek Highlights
- Experience a less crowded and equally spectacular alternative to the classic Everest base camp trek that offers trekkers a unique Himalayan mountain experience.
- Discover beautiful Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise snowy lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Gokyo is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.
- Climb Gokyo Ri, a vantage point with breathtaking panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and other surrounding peaks.
- Enjoy a variety of ecosystems including alpine meadows, rhododendron forests and Himalayan wildlife such as mountain goats and a variety of bird sightings.
- Interact with local Sherpas and learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life.
- Visit Namche Bazaar, a vibrant shopping center in the Everest region, and discover its bustling market and cultural diversity.
- Witness Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas, offering a dramatic landscape of ice formations and moraines.
- Sleep in tea houses along the way, enjoy local food and share experiences with other trekkers.
Best time to trek Gokyo Lakes
The Gokyo Lake Trek can be done all year round, but the best time to do Gokyo Lake Trek throughout Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). Let me inform you why:
Autumn Season: This season gives moderate temperatures and solid climate. The skies stay clear, presenting stunning views of the mountains. It’s a popular choice for trekkers.
Spring Season: Pleasant weather and beautiful vistas make Spring another excellent time. March to May is good for trekking to Gokyo Lake.
Gokyo Lakes Trek Cost
The cost of the Gokyo Lakes trekking package depends on various factors. These include the duration of the trek, the size of the group (Larger groups might be able to negotiate better rates, while solo trekkers or small groups may pay a premium for personalized services), the level of services included (budget, standard, luxury) and the reputation and standard of the trekking company you choose.
All-inclusive Gokyo Lakes trekking costs between $1270 and $2170 per person with Alpine Adventure Club, including permits, guides, porters, accommodation, food, and transportation.
The Alpine Adventure Club announces the cost and some fixed departure dates for the Gokyo Lakes Trek for groups joining in 2024 and 2025, the cost includes the standard service. If you wish to participate in a private trek, the cost will be different.
Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation
Day 03: Kathmandu flight to Lukla trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
Day 04: Phakding trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Day 05: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Day 06: Namche Bazaar trek to Dole (4,090 m)
Day 07: Dole trek to Machhermo (4,410 m)
Day 08: Machhermo trek to Gokyo (4,750 m)
Day 09: Day Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
Day 10: Gokyo trek to Dole (4,090 m)
Day 11: Dole trek to Namche (3,440 m)
Day 12: Namche Bazaar trek to Lukla (2,840 m)
Day 13: Lukla flight to Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Day 14: Reserve Day in Kathmandu
Day 15: Depart Kathmandu