10
Days

Gokyo Lakes Trek

49 Reviews in TripAdvisor
33 Reviews in Google Reviews
Duration
10 Days

The Gokyo Lakes are some of the most beautiful in the Himalayas. In fact, these lakes look straight out of a fictional book. Just imagine turquoise blue lakes surrounded by snow-covered giant mountains and glaciers.

The scenery is something one can only see in a highly cinematic movie. However, that is not the limit. There are many unbelievably gorgeous places all over the Himalayas in Nepal, and you can trek with us to those places, including the Gokyo Lakes.

The Gokyo Lakes are situated in the Everest region. Many trekkers also combine the Gokyo Lakes with Everest Base Camp trek, and some do the Gokyo Lakes trek with Cho La Pass.

Highlights

  • Explore some of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Himalayas
  • Witness breathtaking mountain vistas and landscapes during the trek
  • An adventure trek off the mainstream EBC trail
  • Traverse the pristine Gokyo Valley
  • Trek through rhododendron forests and cross many hanging bridges along the trail
  • Enjoy Lukla flights and explore famous villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar
  • Ideal for trekkers looking for a peaceful trek in the Everest region
  • Go on a side hike to Hotel Everest View for acclimatization
  • Witness a gorgeous sunrise and mountain panorama from Gokyo Ri
  • Offbeat terrain, cross the Nogzumpa Glacier moraine, and experience major steep uphill hiking
  • Experience the warm hospitality of the Sherpas and get to know other mountain communities as well

What are the main attractions during the Gokyo Lakes trek?

  • The Lukla flights: The Lukla flights are thrilling because of the airport's location and short runway. Likewise, the mountain views are also breathtaking during the flight.
  • Stunning mountain vistas: You will see many incredible mountain vistas during the Gokyo Lakes trek 10 days. Some of them are Thamserku, Khumbila, Chamlang, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Island Peak, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Cholatse, etc.
  • Hospitality of Sherpas and other mountain communities: During the Gokyo Lakes trekking, you will meet with Sherpas, Limbus, Rais, Bhotiyas, and other mountain communities. All of them are very welcoming and friendly. As the Gokyo Lakes trail goes through different villages, you will have a glimpse of their lifestyle and culture.
  • The rivers, streams, and lush hills: As you start trekking from Lukla, you will trek through rhododendron forests. The trail goes along the Dudh Koshi River and ascends the valley. Likewise, there are many streams in the upper part of the trail, flowing down from glaciers.
  • Numerous suspension bridges: Between Lukla and Namche Bazaar, you will cross the most number of suspension bridges, including the long Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, and suspension bridges connect the trail over this river in many sections.
  • High alpine walking: Once you hike beyond Dole, you will trek past alpine pastures and barren lands. The trail gradually continues to Nogzumpla Glacier moraine and climbs to Gokyo village. The best thing about high alpine walking is definitely the rugged landscapes and prominent mountain vistas.
  • The beautiful Gokyo Lakes: There are 19 Gokyo Lakes spread between 4,700 meters and 5,000 meters. Among them, six are the main lakes. Thonak Cho is the biggest Gokyo Lake, and the Gokyo village is situated near Dudh Pokhari.
  • Gokyo Ri hike: Gokyo Ri is a viewpoint near Gokyo village. It is the highest point trekkers touch during the Gokyo Lakes trek. Situated 5,400 meters (17,814 ft) above sea level, the mountain views are outstanding from this place.
  • Side hike to 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes: Trekkers also hike to the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes. Some even go to the Cho Oyu Base Camp (5,700 m), which is located further north of the 5th Gokyo Lake.

Is the Gokyo Lakes trek suitable for you?

With a little bit of preparation, most trekkers can complete the Gokyo Lakes trek. You do not necessarily need previous trekking experience to do this trek.

The Gokyo Lakes trek is a good alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek. Trekkers who want to experience the peaceful and less commercialized side of the Everest region will love this trek.

The Gokyo Lakes trek is also a great family and student adventure. Travelers of all ages can book the Gokyo Lakes trek 10 days with us. Our itinerary is customizable, so you can make changes as per your requirements, too.

How to physically and mentally prepare for the Gokyo Lakes trek 10 days?

You don't have to do much in terms of physical preparation. Regular long walks and light exercise will be enough. A perfect workout plan will be strength training 4 to 5 times a week, followed by 1 hour of cardio.

Mentally, increase your knowledge about the Gokyo Lakes trek route. This is an adventure trek in a remote area. So, understand the discomforts and challenges it poses. It will help you have a positive mindset when you are on trail.

Gokyo Lakes trek cost & booking

Our Gokyo Lakes trek cost is USD XXXX per person. We have the most genuine Gokyo Lakes trek price in the market. You can also get a special offer by joining as a group of 2 or more trekkers.

You can contact us anytime if you have questions about the Gokyo Lakes trek 10 days. To book the trip, simply purchase the Gokyo Lakes trek package through our website.

Gokyo Lakes trek 2025 and 2026 bookings are open!

Why do the Gokyo Lakes trek with Hiking in Himalaya?

By joining Hiking in Himalaya for any trek in Nepal, you will become part of a 25+ years of legacy.

With immense love for Nepal's breathtaking mountains and passion to showcase them to the world, we have been operating several treks, tours, and climbing trips.

Our more than two decades of expertise have helped us perfect the art of guiding trekkers in the rugged Himalayan terrain and varying climate.

We have explored more than 80+ trails in Nepal and have hundreds of happy trekkers from all around the world.

By doing the Gokyo Lakes trek with us, you will get:

  • A professional and friendly management team that will handle logistics, permits, and transportation.
  • Certified local guides and porters who are friendly, caring, and fun to trek with.
  • Profound insights into trekking regions all around Nepal.
  • Best Gokyo Lakes trek cost and service.
  • Moldable itinerary, 24/7 support, and complimentary airport pick up and drop off.
  • We provide a free duffel bag and a first-aid kit with an oximeter to use during the trek.
  • Trek certificate and Hiking in Himalaya merch (cap and t-shirt).
Price From
US$1150US$1400
  • No. of peoplePrice per person
  • 1 - 2 paxUS$1150
  • 2 - 4 paxUS$1120
  • 4 - 20 paxUS$1090
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Short Itinerary

Gokyo Lakes Trek Detailed Itinerary

01Day

Fly from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla airport and trek to Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft)

Your Gokyo Lakes trek starts with a thrilling flight to Lukla. It will be a short flight, but the stunning aerial views of the Himalayan mountains will make every second precious.

Upon landing in Lukla, you will begin trekking to Phakding with your group. It will be an easy 200-meter descent through lush forests and small villages, crossing several suspension bridges on the way.

*In spring and autumn, Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport because of high air traffic in Kathmandu Airport.

*You will leave your hotel at around 1:00 AM and drive 4 to 5 hours to reach Ramechhap Airport.

Max Altitude: 2,846m / 9,337ftDuration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trekDistance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
02Day

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Continuing the trek from Phakding village, you will hike to Namche Bazaar. The trail goes through rhododendron-covered hills, following the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross many suspension bridges along the way and pass by small settlements like Monjo and Josalle.

Max Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286ftDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
03Day

Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village (3,790 m/12,434 ft)

On acclimatization day, you hike to a high altitude and return to the same village to spend the night. It helps you adjust to increasing elevation and avoid altitude sickness further on the way.

Hotel Everest View hike is a famous choice among trekkers. You will see mountains such as Thamserku, Kongde Ri, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc. If you are interested, you can also visit Kumjung village.

Max Altitude: 3,962m / 12,998ftDuration: 4-5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
04Day

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will follow a separate route to Gokyo Valley. You will leave behind the main EBC trail and follow a less crowded trail as you trek to Dole. While hiking, enjoy wonderful views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and many other mountains.

Max Altitude: 4,038m / 13,248ftDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 12 km/7.4 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
05Day

Trek from Dole to Machhermo

From Dole, you will gradually ascend to Machhermo village, enjoying rugged landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas. On the way, you will trek through Lapahram and Luja settlements. It will be a light and scenic walk.

Max Altitude: 4,470m / 14,665ftDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 7 km/4.3 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
06Day

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo village

Continuing the trek from Machhermo village, you will walk for an hour and arrive at Phanga, a landslide area. The trail crosses a bridge and ascends to Longpongo Lake (4,690 m).

From here, you will traverse the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine and pass by the first two Gokyo Lakes. Gokyo village is situated near the third Gokyo Lake.

Max Altitude: 4,790m / 15,715ftDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 5.7 km/3.5 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
07Day

Hike to Gokyo Ri and descend to Dole (4,038 m/13,248 ft)

Start the day early and go on a hike to the Gokyo Ri viewpoint. The trail is steep and rocky, so you have to be extra careful. Upon reaching Gokyo Ri, you will see a mesmerizing sunrise and heavenly views of mountains such as Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, etc.

After the hike, return to Gokyo village and have a delicious breakfast. After that, begin descending to Dole, retracing the same trail. On the way, you will re-cross the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine and pass by Machhermo village.

Max Altitude: 540,017,814m / 1,771,712,044ftDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 16 km/9.9 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
08Day

Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar

Enjoy peaceful walking for the first few hours and rejoin the main bustling EBC trail as you descend to Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286ftDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 12 km/7.4 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
09Day

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

The trail descends steeply and goes through lush forests, crossing many suspension bridges. You will trek through Jorsale and Monjo before reaching Phakding. From here, you will follow the uphill trail to Lukla.

Max Altitude: 2,846m / 9,337ftDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 13.6 km/8.3 miles
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
10Day

Morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla airport

Say goodbye to the Everest region and enjoy the final views of the mountain during your flight back to Kathmandu. Our representative will be at the Kathmandu or Ramechhap airport as per your landing location and will escort you to the hotel.

Max Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ftDuration: 35 minutes flight
Meals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: Hotel
Still Confuse?
No worries. Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
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Cost Details

Includes
  • Pick-up and drop-off at Tribhuvan International Airport as per the itinerary
  • Two Lukla flights
  • All meals during the trek (lunch /dinner/breakfast ) with a cup of tea
  • Necessary permits
  • An experienced, English-speaking, licensed trekking guide
  • A duffel bag to put your belongings in
  • First aid medical kit
  • Pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation at high altitudes
  • Certificate of achievement after the trek
  • Cap and T-shirt
Excludes
  • Porter
  • International flights
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Trek gear and personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, hot showers, and charging
  • Private jeep
  • Tips for guide/porter
  • Souvenir

Essential Information

Gokyo Lakes trek difficulty

The Gokyo Lakes trek is a moderate to difficult level trek. It is an entry-level off-beat trek, best for someone who has some sort of uphill hiking experience.

Beginner trekkers may complete the Gokyo Lakes trek as their first Himalayan trek if they are fit. The trekking route has many rocky and steep sections. So, you need decent fitness.

Gokyo Lakes trek distance

The Gokyo Lakes trek distance is approximately 90 kilometers.

High altitude guidelines that will help you avoid altitude sickness

High altitude makes trekking difficult. The higher you will trek, the lower the oxygen level and air pressure get. It makes even the simplest activity burdensome.

On the Gokyo Lakes trek, you will spend 9 days over 2,500 meters. Above this elevation, the risk of altitude sickness rises. Follow the tips below to avoid altitude sickness:

  • Drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily. You have to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Eat carbohydrate-rich meals and get ample sleep daily.
  • Avoid smoking and alcoholic drinks. Limit caffeine intake.
  • Ascend slowly and have a steady pace.
  • Listen to your body, and if you feel any discomfort, talk to your guide.

Gokyo Lakes trek in different seasons, and the best time

The spring and autumn seasons are the best times to do the Gokyo Lakes trek. Winter is also a great time to enjoy the beauty of Gokyo Lakes. A summer/monsoon trek is also possible, but with proper preparation.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to do the Gokyo Lakes trek because of stable weather and pleasant climate. The lower parts of the trail see rhododendron blooms that make the trekking route very beautiful.

Summer/monsoon (June to mid-September)

The summer/monsoon period has the most unstable weather, so Lukla flights are often delayed and canceled. Rainfall makes the trail muddy and slippery at lower elevations.

You can trek to Gokyo Lakes in the summer/monsoon period, but you need to plan extra days just in case the weather affects your itinerary.

Autumn (late September to November)

Autumn is the most famous time for the Gokyo Lakes trekking. This season has very vibrant landscapes, and the mountain views are also excellent.

Depending on your trekking date, you may get to experience festivals like Dashai, Tihar, and Chhath. These are the biggest festivals in Nepal.

Winter (December to February)

Gokyo Lakes are famous for ice skating in winter. Once the lakes freeze, the locals check their safety and open them for ice skating. Even if you do not ice skate, trekking to Gokyo Lakes in winter is also incredible.

Peaceful trails, beautiful winter landscapes, and a cold climate make the trek wonderful. There can be disturbances in Lukla flights because of unpredictable weather. So, we recommend trekkers plan 1-2 contingency days.

Accommodation on the Gokyo Lakes trek route

The Gokyo Lakes trek route has lodge/tea house accommodation for trekkers. It is basic accommodation. You will get shared rooms, warm dining halls, and common washrooms.

We can arrange a single room, but it costs extra money. The region can get cold even during spring and autumn seasons, so we recommend a sleeping bag.

Likewise, pack all essential toiletries, including soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, hand cream, etc.

Food

Our Gokyo Lakes trek package includes three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). You are free to buy additional food and beverages on your own.

You will get a good variety of food. From the famous dal bhat and thukpa to soups, momo, thenduk, fried rice, eggs, stew, porridge, Tibetan bread, etc, the food options are decent.

In villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, you will also get freshly baked pizza, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, French fries, a variety of meat dishes, etc.

Transporation

The Gokyo Lakes trek includes two Lukla flights. We provide private transportation between Kathmandu and Ramechhap Airport/Kathmandu Airport.

  • In spring and autumn, you will take the Lukla flight from Ramechhap Airport.
  • In summer/monsoon and winter, you will take the Lukla flight from Kathmandu Airport.
  • Transportation will be arranged accordingly.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must if you want to do the Gokyo Lakes trek in Nepal. All high altitude treks in Nepal require travel insurance with medical and helicopter evacuation.

Buy it in your country and bring the documents with you. Make sure your travel insurance is okay for an adventure trek in Nepal in the Everest region.

Communication and charging

The Gokyo Lakes trek route does not have a good mobile network. WiFi is available in some lodges, but the signal is not reliable either. You will go offline during the trek.

Charging mobile and camera costs Nrs 100 to Nrs 300 per device. Pack a power bank and spare batteries for backup.

Gokyo Lakes trek packing

You will need the following things for the Gokyo Lakes trek:

Clothing:

  • Breathable underwear, base layer (trekking t-shirts and pants), and thermal layer
  • Long-sleeved hiking shirt and hiking shorts or leggings
  • Fleece jumpers
  • Waterproof/rainproof jacket and pant
  • Down jacket
  • Liner socks, fuzzy socks, liner gloves (touch screen compatible), thermal gloves, beanies (2), scarves
  • Neck gaiter and sun hat

Trekking gear:

  • Trekking boots
  • Normal shoes or slippers to wear in the lodge
  • Trekking poles
  • Daypack
  • UV Sunglasses
  • Duffel bag
  • Water bottle
  • Water purifying tablets

Miscellaneous:

  • First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toiletries, including wet wipes, toilet paper, hand wash, shampoo, etc
  • SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, comb, pocket mirror
  • Pocket torch and knife (optional)
  • Snacks
  • Camera, spare batteries, power bank, Universal adapter
  • Journal and pen (optional)
  • Ziplock bag to store used clothes and food
  • Dry towel

Documents:

  • Passport-size photos
  • Passport (at least six months of validity)
  • Nepali tourist visa
  • Credit/debit card
  • Cash
  • Travel insurance document
  • Emergency contact and address

Gokyo Lakes Trek FAQs

There are 19 Gokyo Lakes spread between 4,600 meters and 5,100 meters in the Everest region. Among them, six are considered the main lakes. They are:

  1. Gokyo Cho (Dudh Pokhari)
  2. Thonak Cho
  3. Gyazumpa Cho
  4. Tanjung Cho
  5. Ngojumba Cho
  6. Kyajumba Cho (Longponga Cho)

The Gokyo Lakes trek route is slightly more offbeat than the EBC route. It is considered a moderate to difficult trek in the Everest region. This trek involves 5 to 6 hours of walking each day and traverses diverse terrain, so good fitness is required.

With us, you can complete the Gokyo Lakes trek in 10 days. Our itinerary does not include arrival and departure from Kathmandu.

The Gokyo Lakes trek distance is approximately 85 kilometers (52.8 miles).

Gokyo Ri offers one of the best panoramas of Mount Everest. In addition to that, you will see incredible views of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Nutpse, Cholatse, etc.

Compared to the Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Lakes trek is less crowded and slightly more demanding. It is a great alternative for trekkers who are looking for something different from the EBC trek in the Everest region.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are obviously the best times to do the Gokyo Lakes trek. You will enjoy stable weather, moderate climate, good visibility, decent daylight hours, and stunning mountain vistas.

Yes, you can trek to Gokyo Lakes in winter. Make sure you are well-packed and prepared.

Legally, tourists can trek to Gokyo Lakes independently. You can get the trek permits from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. On a side note, we do not recommend trekking solo for safety reasons.

The Gokyo Lakes trek costs USD 1,420 per person with us. We frequently give special offers, so stay connected with us.

A sleeping bag is recommended for the Gokyo Lakes trek. You can buy or rent it in Kathmandu.

Charging a phone or a camera usually costs Nrs 100 to Nrs 300 per device in the teahouses. So, kindly carry some money for personal expenses during trekking.

WiFi is available in many villages but costs extra money. Both the WiFi network and the mobile connection are not good along the Gokyo Lakes trek route.

Beginner trekkers can do the Gokyo Lakes trek, but with good preparation.

The Gokyo Lakes trek route is not crowded like the EBC. You will come across fellow trekkers while trekking, but the journey will be quite peaceful.

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