Gokyo Lake Trek

Description

Gokyo Lake Trek is a beautiful alternative to the famous Everest Base Camp Trek and a great choice for those seeking a quieter, less crowded trail. This trek offers incredible views of the mighty Everest and the chance to stay in Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu Region. The journey takes you through picturesque villages, lush forests, and stunning landscapes before reaching the Gokyo Lakes, where you will be amazed by the turquoise-blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

The Gokyo Lakes are located in the Gokyo Valley at altitudes between 4,700 meters and 5,000 meters. These six beautiful lakes are the highest freshwater lakes in the world and are a Ramsar site of both ecological and spiritual importance. The trek is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in Nepal while exploring remote areas and learning about local Sherpa culture.

Key Highlights of the Gokyo Lake Trek:

Gokyo Ri: A challenging but rewarding climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) offers panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, as well as the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest glacier.
Gokyo Lakes: The trek leads to the Gokyo Lakes, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the glacial lakes, surrounded by towering peaks.
Sherpa Culture: Along the way, you will pass through Sherpa villages and visit Buddhist monasteries, offering a glimpse into the unique culture of the region.
Less Crowded: The Gokyo Lake Trek is less frequented than other Everest View Point Treks and Everest Three Passes Treks, providing a peaceful trekking experience away from the crowds.

How to Get to Gokyo Lake:

Your adventure begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by a two-day trek to Namche Bazaar, where you’ll acclimatize. From Namche, the trail takes you through the beautiful Khumjung valley, allowing you to experience the daily life and culture of the Sherpa people. After leaving the main Everest Base Camp Trek route, the path leads through the tranquil Dudh Koshi Valley, passing through villages like Dole and Machhermo before reaching the Ngozumpa Glacier and the Gokyo Lakes.

Why is the Gokyo Lake Trek Worth Doing?

The Gokyo Lake trek is truly an unforgettable journey. It not only offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and the famous Everest but also takes you through beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, and traditional Sherpa villages. This trek offers a peaceful alternative to the busier routes and allows you to experience the culture, lifestyle, and beliefs of the Sherpa community in the heart of the Khumbu Region. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or looking for easy treks in Nepal, this trek is an enriching experience for everyone.

Gokyo Lake Location and Its History:

The Gokyo Lakes are located in the Sagarmatha National Park in the Khumbu region of Nepal, near the Tibetan border. These lakes are fed by the Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the largest glacier in Nepal. The largest lake, Thonak Tsho, is located at an altitude of 4,940 meters (16,210 feet). The lakes are not only important for their natural beauty but are also sacred to the local Sherpa community and other Himalayan people. These lakes are believed to house local deities and are used for drinking and irrigation by the Sherpas.

The Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the best treks in Nepal, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the heart of the Himalayas. Whether you are seeking breathtaking vistas, adventure, or a peaceful escape, this trek provides it all. Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition, recognized as the Best Trekking Agency in Nepal, offers expert-guided treks through this stunning region, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.

If you’re planning a Nepal Tour or looking for a unique trekking experience, the Gokyo Lake trek is definitely a route worth considering. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture.

Highlights

Experience an exhilarating flight in and out of Lukla Airport, the gateway to Everest.

Trek a less crowded trail through Sagarmatha National Park's rich flora, fauna, and rugged cliffsides for a serene experience.

Trek through icy rivers, stony glacier debris, and moraines at high elevations for a challenging adventure.

Explore Gokyo Lakes, the hidden jewel of the Everest region, showcasing serene alpine beauty.

Spend nights in picturesque Sherpa villages, experiencing their unique lifestyle amidst the mountainous terrain.

Enjoy acclimatization days and side excursions to Hotel Everest View, Machhermo Ri, and Gokyo Ri.

Witness diverse landscapes and breathtaking views of mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.

Immerse yourself in tranquil mountain beauty, enjoying the serene landscapes that surround you.

Experience Ngozumpa, Nepal's largest glacier, and marvel at its stunning icy ridges.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, pass through customs, where a representative from Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition will be waiting to greet you. You will be escorted to your hotel in Thamel via a private four-wheeler, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Feel free to ask any questions during the ride. After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax and explore the vibrant surroundings. In the evening, join us for a welcome dinner to kickstart your adventure in Nepal.

Today, embark on a guided tour of some of Kathmandu's most iconic landmarks, starting with the Swayambhunath Temple (also known as the Monkey Temple), located atop a hill. Next, visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, followed by the grand Boudhanath Stupa, Nepal's largest stupa. Afterward, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, an ancient royal palace complex that now serves as an open-air museum, featuring courtyards, palaces, and shrines. The vibrant local market and diverse eateries add to the colorful atmosphere of the area. After the tour, take some time to relax before meeting at our office for a briefing on the upcoming Gokyo Lake trek. We'll take care of all necessary permits for the trek in advance, so you can unwind. The meeting will also include time for packing and any last-minute shopping to ensure you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

The flight to Lukla is scheduled for early morning, so we will depart from the hotel on time. Your guide will pick you up, and during the flight, you'll be treated to spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan mountains. Upon landing in Lukla, a small town that serves as the gateway to our Gokyo Lake trek, porters will assist with our gear. We won't spend the night in Lukla; instead, we'll trek to Phakding village, which lies about 200 meters lower to aid with acclimatization. The trek from Lukla to Phakding passes through Chaurikharka village and descends along the Dudh Koshi River towards Ghat village, crossing several suspension bridges and trekking through lush alpine forests. Upon arrival in Phakding, you'll be treated to amazing views of peaks such as Kongde Ri and Khumbila. In the afternoon, we will visit the ancient Rimishung Monastery, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. This day sets the tone for the incredible journey ahead through Nepal's stunning landscapes.

Today's trek will take us to Namche Bazaar, the bustling gateway to the Everest region. After a hearty breakfast in Phakding, we plan to start the trek between 9:00 to 10:00 AM. Our route follows the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it multiple times as we make our way forward. After a few hours, we'll reach Monjo village, where we'll take a break for lunch and handle necessary permit registrations. After lunch, we'll cross the long Hillary Suspension Bridge and continue on the uneven hillside trail. The path winds through lush rhododendron and magnolia forests, before tackling the steep ascent to Namche Bazaar. This challenging segment requires caution but rewards us with stunning views of the surrounding mountains as we climb. Today's trek is both demanding and incredibly scenic, offering a perfect introduction to the heart of the Khumbu region.

Today, we take a well-deserved rest day in Namche Bazaar. In the morning, we'll hike to the Hotel Everest View, a perfect vantage point to catch your first glimpse of Mt. Everest, along with stunning views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, Kongde Ri, and Khumbila. Depending on our energy levels, we may extend our hike to Khumjung Monastery or return to Namche Bazaar for a relaxing afternoon. As the largest Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu region, Namche Bazaar is a vibrant hub for trekkers, offering an array of cafes, pubs, souvenir shops, restaurants, and museums. The bustling atmosphere may be a pleasant surprise to many visitors. If your stay coincides with a Saturday, don't miss the lively Saturday Market, a unique cultural experience where locals and trekkers mingle and trade. This rest day in Namche serves not only as a vital acclimatization break but also offers a rich cultural immersion into the heart of Sherpa country.

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we embark on a less-traveled route towards the serene Gokyo Valley. Our trek takes us through the picturesque Kyanjuma village, located above the Dudh Koshi Gorge, offering stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri. We then ascend to the Mong La Pass at 3,972 meters, where the panoramic mountain vistas are truly spectacular. After descending from the pass, we approach the Dudh Koshi River and continue our journey to Phortse Thenga. The trail meanders through vibrant rhododendron and juniper forests, with occasional sightings of yaks grazing in the lush pastures. Our next stop is Dole, a scenic village marking the next beautiful stretch of our trek towards Gokyo.

As we continue towards Lapahrma, the trail is adorned with trailside shrines and colorful prayer flags, adding to the serene and peaceful atmosphere of our trek. Upon reaching Lapahrma, we are greeted by a stunning view of Mount Cho Oyu, the world's fifth-highest mountain at 8,201 meters. Along the way, we are also treated to breathtaking vistas of Mount Kantega and Thamserku, showcasing nature's awe-inspiring beauty. As we pass through lush meadows, we’ll encounter yaks grazing peacefully. Our route then takes us through the scenic Luja Valley, flanked by towering peaks, leading us to the charming village of Machhermo, where the perfect blend of natural splendor and tranquil village life offers an unforgettable experience.

During our acclimatization day in Machhermo, we focus on rest and light activities, such as short hikes to higher elevations, to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. This is essential for preventing hypoxia by allowing us to adapt to the reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes. Trekkers often explore nearby natural attractions to stay active without overexerting themselves. Popular options include hiking to the Machhermo Ri viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Cho Oyu, the world's sixth-highest peak. Another excellent acclimatization activity is a trek to the nearby Machhermo Glacier, where we can experience its stunning icy landscape. These activities not only aid in acclimatization but also enrich the trekking experience with spectacular scenic views.

The trek from Machhermo to Gokyo Village is a breathtaking journey. After crossing Phangan, you'll cross an iron bridge to reach Longpongo Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and a popular rest spot for trekkers. Continuing on, you'll encounter the formidable Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. Traversing its challenging moraines can be tough, but the stunning scenery is well worth the effort. Further along, you'll come across the series of six Gokyo lakes, each unique in color and charm. Gokyo Village itself is beautifully nestled beside Dudh Pokhari, one of these remarkable lakes, offering a scenic and tranquil setting. Spending the night in Gokyo Village allows you to fully absorb the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this spectacular region.

Gokyo offers two compelling exploration options for visitors. First, a shorter, 3km trail north of the village leads past the series of Gokyo lakes, with a focus on Thonak Tsho and Ngozumpa Tsho, ultimately reaching Scoundrel's Viewpoint for breathtaking views of Cho-Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and more. This hike provides a close-up experience of the rugged high-altitude landscape, taking about 2 hours for a round-trip to Gokyo.

Alternatively, the trail to Gokyo Ri begins with a short walk around Dudh Pokhari Lake. Starting early is advisable to avoid cloud cover later in the morning. The ascent to the summit of Gokyo Ri, standing at 5,360 meters, takes approximately two hours. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with an unparalleled bird's-eye view of the Mahalangur Himal, including the formidable north face of Everest, the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, and an array of towering peaks over 6,300 meters. This ascent offers one of the most memorable vistas in the Himalayas, showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty of this mountainous region. After these explorations, return to Gokyo for the night.

The trek begins from Gokyo Village, following a rocky path alongside the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing the river, the route continues through Phangka and ascends towards Machhermo. Beyond Machhermo, a steep and challenging climb leads to the highest point of a ridge. Descending from the ridge, you'll cross a bridge over the Dudh Koshi River to reach Luza. From there, the trail to Dole winds through lush rhododendron and juniper forests, offering spectacular views of Khumbila and Tawache mountains, enriching the trek with breathtaking natural scenery.

Departing from Dole, our trek winds through dense juniper and rhododendron forests, leading us to Phortse Thenga. Following the trail alongside the Dudh Kosi River, we ascend to Mong La Pass. After crossing the pass, the trail descends through the Dudh Koshi Gorge, passing Kyanjuma Village, before finally reaching Namche Bazaar. This leg of the journey features both challenging ascents and scenic descents, culminating in the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region.

From Namche Bazaar, we begin with a steep descent along rugged terrain, entering a forested path that meanders past remote settlements. The trail winds through magnolia and rhododendron forests, crossing several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding. Continuing from Phakding, we retrace our steps back to Lukla, ascending along the Dudh Koshi River through lush forests, passing small villages, and crossing multiple bridges. This segment of the trek offers a reflective journey back to where our adventure first began, providing a beautiful conclusion to our Himalayan trek.

Today, we return to Kathmandu early in the morning after completing our successful Gokyo Lakes trek, savoring a final breathtaking mountain panorama during the scenic flight. You’ll have the rest of the day at leisure in Kathmandu, allowing you to unpack, enjoy delicious local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and explore the city at your own pace. In the late evening, join us for a farewell dinner, where we'll present you with a trek certificate, celebrating your achievement and the unforgettable journey through the Himalayas.

It's time to say goodbye. Please ensure you pack all your belongings and share any feedback with us. The Nature Heaven Treks team will pick you up from your hotel lobby according to your flight schedule and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport. If you have extra days and wish to explore more, let us know—we offer a variety of adventurous and relaxing trips across Nepal. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you again soon!

Allow our experts at Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition to help you Plan one of the most Memorable Vacations based on your interests with their in-depth knowledge of the Himalayas, they can craft the journey of your dreams considering your preferred location, time frame, and Budget

During the peak seasons for the Everest Base Camp Trek (March to May and September to November), all the Lukla flights will be operated from the Manthali Airport due to congestion at Tribhuvan Airport.

Included/Excluded

Pickup from Kathmandu International Airport
Accommodation in Kathmandu hotel with Breakfast
Flight ticket to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap including airport transfer to domestic airport.
All necessary permits for 15 Days Gokyo Valley Circuit Trek.
13 nights’ accommodation during the trek (Twin Sharing Base)
3 times meals a day such as Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trekking
Duffel bag, Sleeping Bag, and Down Jacket (return after complete the trip)
First Aid and Eco trained English Speaking professionals to guide with the medical kit (Lukla to Lukla)
Staff insurance, well-paid salary, equipment, food Hotel, etc.
Flight ticket to Kathmandu or Ramechhap from Lukla includes transportation.
Purified drinking water
Farewell, dinner in a Nepali restaurant in Thamel before you depart from Nepal.
An airport transfer service for your final departure

Kathmandu city tour monument fees
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except for welcome and farewell dinner
All the soft and alcoholic drinks
Mineral water
Boiled water
Personal expenses
Wi-Fi
Electronic devise recharge
Hot shower except for 4 night
Travel insurance and evacuation
Tips for Guide and Porter

FAQs

The Gokyo trek typically takes about 12 to 14 days, depending on the specific route and pace of the trek.

The Gokyo Lake trek is considered moderately challenging due to high altitudes and rugged terrain, requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

The Gokyo Lakes are a natural attraction and cannot be purchased. However, you can plan a trek to visit them by arranging travel through a trekking agency.

Yes, you can see Mount Everest from Gokyo Ri. The summit provides a spectacular panoramic view of Everest alongside other high peaks in the Himalayas.

While not legally required, hiring a guide for the Gokyo Lakes trek is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and gaining insights into the local culture and environment.

The Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, is located near Gokyo Lakes. It forms a dramatic backdrop to the beautiful high-altitude lakes.

The best seasons for the Gokyo Lake trek are pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (late September to November), offering clear skies and stable weather.

A beginner can do the Gokyo Lakes trek, but it's challenging due to high altitudes and rugged terrain. Proper preparation and physical fitness are essential.

Gokyo Lakes are a series of six spectacular high-altitude lakes in Nepal's Everest Region, part of the Sagarmatha National Park, renowned for their stunning beauty.

The Gokyo Lake trail is less crowded compared to the Everest Base Camp route but can still attract a fair number of trekkers during peak seasons.

Yes, you will need a sturdy, comfortable backpack for the Gokyo Lake trek to carry essentials like warm clothing, snacks, water, and personal items.

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Gokyo Lake Trek

Description

Key Highlights of the Gokyo Lake Trek:

How to Get to Gokyo Lake:

Why is the Gokyo Lake Trek Worth Doing?

Gokyo Lake Location and Its History:

Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (4 265ft)

Day 2: within the City Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing OR every day at Leisure

Day 3: Kathmandu – Lukla (2 775m/9 193ft) – Phakding (8 565ft), 35 min flight, 3-4 hrs trek

Day 4: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (11 293ft), 5-6 hrs.

Day 5: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization and Exploration Day

Day 6: Namche Bazaar – Dole (13 455ft), 5-6 hrs

Day 7: Dole – Machhermo (14 445ft), 4-5 hrs

Day 08:Acclimatization Day in Machhermo

Day 9: Machhermo – Gokyo (15 585ft), 3-4 hrs

Day 10: Gokyo: Acclimatisation and exploration day

Day 11: Gokyo – Phortse (12 555ft), 5-6 hrs

Day 12: Phortse – Monjo (9 325ft), 4-5 hrs

Day 13 : Monjo – Lukla (8 855ft): 5-6 hrs

Day 14: Lukla – Kathmandu (4 265ft), 35 min flight

Day 15: Final Departure

Customize Trip

Message Regarding flight to/from Lukla

Included/Excluded

Tour's Location

FAQs

How long is the Gokyo trek?

How hard is that the Gokyo Lake trek?

How do I purchase Gokyo Lakes?

Can you see Everest from Gokyo Ri?

Do you need a guide for Gokyo Lakes?

Which glacier is near Gokyo Lake?

Which season is best for the Gokyo Lake trek?

Can a beginner do the Gokyo Lakes trek?

What is Gokyo Lakes?

Is the Gokyo Lake trail crowded?

Will I want a bag for the Gokyo Lake trek?

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(+977)-9851218358 (What's App/Viber ) Krishna Ghimire

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