Gokyo Lake Trek - 11 Days

Sagarmatha National Park
1 review
Fresh Water lake Gokyo
First lake and Second Lake View
Gokyo Lake Life
Duration11 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude4790 m
Group Size1-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking and walking
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

The Gokyo Lakes Trek offers a flawless fusion of majestic mountains and shimmering emerald lakes in Khumbu Region of Nepal

Gokyo Lake Trek is an 11-day journey through the Sagarmatha National Park in the Everest region. Gokyo Lake is a series of freshwater alpine lakes situated at an altitude of 4700m/ 15420 feet. It is well known for its breathtaking landscape, biodiversity and is surrounded by towering peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Gokyo Ri (5357m/) offers the breathtaking view of the sky towering mountains in a 360-degree panorama. Gokyo Valley Trek is the best alternative route to Everest Base Camp Trek.

Gokyo Lake Trek begins with a scenic morning flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Lukla is the starting and ending point of the Gokyo Lake Trek. Upon arrival in Lukla, inhale the purest air and follow the traditional Sherpa Village, pass the Mani wall engraving Buddhist mantra (Om Mane Padme Hun), waterfalls, Monastery, Sherpa Museum, Community market at Namche Bazar, deep valleys, and diverse flora and fauna. The Gokyo Lake is famous for its crystal clear turquoise water, hiking to Cho Oyu Base camp, and the Gokyo Ri hike. One of the highlights of the Gokyo Lakes Trek is climbing Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters / 17,575 feet), a hilltop that provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Everest massif, including Everest itself.

Gokyo Lake is the biggest among the six glacial lakes. Gokyo Valley Trek is renowned for its natural beauty, offering views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. Gokyo Valley Trek is a heavenly paradise where you can find inner peace, joy, and happiness. After exploring the Gokyo Valley, you have an opportunity to choose whether to go to EBC via Chola Pass or follow the Renjo-la (5385m/17,660 ft) pass to Thame and Namche. Gokyo Valley Trek and Gokyo Lake Trek are essentially the same, you have to go through Gokyo Valley to reach the Gokyo Lake.

Gokyo Lake and its surroundings are visually stunning and significant in terms of their religious and cultural importance to the indigenous Sherpa people. The lakes are considered sacred, and trekkers are often reminded to treat the area with respect. The Gokyo valley is less crowded than the Everest Base Camp Trek, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a more tranquil Himalayan trekking experience. Gokyo Valley is the perfect choice for eco-friendly trekking and adventure.

Highlights of the Gokyo Lake Trek

  • Lukla flight: Early board the scenic flight to Lukla, which offers breathtaking mountain views. Landing on the Sherpa land to process the journey with the Guide and Porter. Lukla is the starting and ending point of the Gokyo Lake Trek.
  • Namche Bazaar: The biggest village at an altitude of 3434m. Excellent place for acclimatization and offer to visit the Museum, National Park Headquarters, Monastery, and viewpoint.
  • Gokyo Valley: Follow the breathtaking Gokyo Valley to reach the Gokyo Lake. It offers stunning mountain views and biodiversity through lush forests.
  • Gokyo Lake: The lakes are the major highlights, with crystal clear turquoise waters. Grab the opportunity to visit the fifth lake and Cho Oyu Base Camp for inner peace.
  • Gokyo Ri: A hike to Gokyo Ri (5357m/17,570 ft) takes about 2/3 hours, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Renjola Pass: The possible alternative descending path to Namche bazaar via Renjo-la pass without following the same path. The Renjo-la offer the best mountain views and breathtaking valley before descending to Namche. 
  • Ngozumpa Glacier: While trekking to Gokyo Valley, you are trekking close by Ngozumpa glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.
  • Sherpa Culture: Experience the Sherpa culture and their warm hospitality while visiting Everest region

Lonely Planet states, “For our money, the Gokyo Valley is the most spectacular in the Khumbu” as evidence of the beauty and importance of the Gokyo Valley Trek.

Best Time for Gokyo Valley Trekking

"The best time of the year for undertaking the Gokyo Valley Trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (mid-September to December). These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making them the peak seasons for the Gokyo Valley Trek.

Winter (late December to February) and Summer (June to August) are less favorable for hiking in Gokyo Valley. Winter brings very cold temperatures and a high chance of snowfall, while summer, or the monsoon season, is characterized by poor visibility and heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy and less enjoyable.

11 Day Gokyo Valley Trek Itinerary

Gokyo Valley is a 11-day trek that begins from Lukla and the adventure ends at Lukla. There are a few options to return from the Gokyo Valley Trek. One can go over a Renjo-la Pass (5,385 m) to Marlung Valley or go over a Chola Pass (5380 m) and follow the classical EBC trek route to Lukla. we have meticulously planned a 11-day Gokyo Valley itinerary to suit everyone's expectations. Our itinerary is outlined and we are happy to customize and include your requirements.

Details of daily walking Altitude chat of Gokyo Lake Trek

Day Destination Altitude Distance Approx. Time Taken altitude gain Altitude loss
01 KTM-LUK (2840m)-Phakding  2,600m 7km 4 hrs   -- 240 m
02 Trek to Namche Bazar 3,440 m 11 km 5 hrs 840 m   ---
03 Acclimatize day (day hike to Syangboche and back) 3,440 m 7km 4/5 hrs 280 m 280 m
04 Trek to Dole 4,200 m 10 km 5 hrs. 760 m   --
05 Trek to Machhermo 4,470 m 7 km 6 hrs 270 m  --
06 Trek to Gokyo Lake 4,790 m 6 km 5 hrs. 320 m   --
07 Hike to Gokyo Ri and back to lodge 5,360 m 6 km 4/5 hrs m 570 m 570 m
08 Trek to Dole 4,200 m 23 km 8 hrs   --- 590 m
09 Trek to Namche Bazar 3,440 m 10 km 4 hrs   --- 760 m
10 Trek to Lukla 2,840 m 18 km 7 hrs   --- 600 m
11 Fly to Kathmandu 1350 m 135 km 35 minutes   --- 1490 m

A Typical Day at Gokyo Lake

While trekking to Gokyo Valley, one should expect to walk 5 to 6 hours daily in high-altitude terrain, covering a distance of 500 to 600 meters each day. The Gokyo Valley Trek is an 11-day tea house trek, with each teahouse serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will spend two nights beside the lake to enjoy the serene environment, and hike to Gokyo Ri for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. A hike to Gokyo Ri is the highlight of the trip, offering a 360-degree view that includes Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Cho Oyu (8,201 m), and Makalu (8,463 m). A spare day is planned at Gokyo to explore the Fifth Lake and Cho Oyu Base Camp. Enjoy the largest Ngozumpa glacier on the eastern side of the lake. In the evening, meet fellow trekkers and share your experiences.

Does Gokyo Lake Trek Suits You?

Embarking on the Gokyo Lakes Trek is a moderate level of physical fitness and mental courage is required. Expect at least 5 hours of daily trekking through fragile terrain among high-altitude mountain landscapes following the Dudh Koshi River to Gokyo Lake. As you traverse through rugged paths and remote areas, you'll find yourself away from the comforts of modern life, immersing yourself in the natural diversity. Rest assured, our precisely designed Gokyo Valley Itinerary includes ample time for acclimatization, minimizing the risk of high-altitude-related problems. Fewer nights are spent above 4000m as compared to Everest Base Camp climb, enhancing safety and comfort. In addition, our experienced Guide and Sherpa porters will be with you to accompany you in every step of the route, prioritizing your well-being.

Lastly, we believe 2025 and 2026 will be favorable year to explore Gokyo Valley.. We, Global Eco Trails is a bunch of experts with decades of experience in the trekking and mountaineering industery. It is expected physical fitness, proper gear, and good preparation are the fundamental needs. Considering your safety and sounds we provide professional Guide with latest information before embarking on Gokyo trekking. Our guide is not only a guide, he is a story teller, a travel companion and a supporter and have a deep knowledge about the local culture and tradition. So, book your journey with us and live your dream. Connect us for instant responses on Whatsapp at +977 9841485631.

Itinerary

Even though we have meticulously crafted the 11-day Gokyo Valley Trek itinerary, it is customizable as per your requirements. There are some options to extend the trek distance, not the trek duration. Renjo-la pass or Cho-la pass options are available in the itinerary. Please feel free to share your plan.

Trip PlanExpand All
01Day

Morning flight to Lukla, one of the highest airports in the world. The views are stunning, particularly as you are flying directly into the Sherpa land. The clean, fresh air welcomes you on arrival. The views take your breath away.

There is an approximately 3-hour walk from Lukla to Phakding through the Dudh Koshi River, passing fluttering flags, stone carving, Mani wall, and some Monastery leading you to Phakding

Max Altitude: 2,600 mMeals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 8 km
02Day

After breakfast, start your journey to Namche Bazaar via Manjo and Jorselle. Stop at the checkpoint, do entry for your safety record, and process your hike through Sagarmatha National Park. Cross a few suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, and walk through Rhododendron and pine forests. Enjoy the first encounter of Everest before reaching Namche.

Max Altitude: 3,440 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 10 km
03Day

Namche Bazaar is an ancient trans-Himalayan trade center, Tibetans come across the Himalayas to sell their goods and return. There are some places to visit around Namche. Visit Namche monastery, Sagarmatha Visitor center, Namche Museum, and a campsite for the close view of the Himalayas and diverse landscape. Explore the oldest Sherpa Village of Thame and its Monastery and back.

Optional: Walk to Everest View Hotel (3,962 m), the highest altitude hotel in the world via Khumjung Valley. You visit Monastery, Hillary School, Khunde Hospital and back to Namche Bazar. Optional you can visit old sherpa village of Thame. The choice is yours!

  • Approx. time taken to reach Everest View Hotel: 3 hours
  • Trek Distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

 

Max Altitude: 3,440 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House
04Day

Leaving Namche behind, the trek route is incredibly beautiful, hiking up the Dudh Koshi valley, passing stupas and views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Thamserku, and many more on the way. The trails split from Kenjoma to EBC trek and Gokyo Valley. Mong is a excellent view point into the amazing panorama. The trails up to Dole passes through the serious of gorgeous Rhododendron Forest.

Max Altitude: 4,200 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 10 km
05Day

The path follows to the Himalayan highland. The Dudh Koshi River flows far below. The day walking is pleasant and offers the views of Thamserku.

Max Altitude: 4,470 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 7 km
06Day

Leaving Machhermo behind, follow the stunning landscape with mesmerising mountain. Today is an easy day even though you are trekking above the 4,000m altitude. Pass 1st and  2nd lake and finally reach Gokyo Lake this is for what you anticipated this trek. Now, take lunch and rest then explore Ngozumpa Glacier and the scenery. Overnight at Lodge.

Max Altitude: 4,790 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 6 km
07Day

Very early morning about (5 am) start your journey to Gokyo Ri. Gokyo Ri offers the stunning sunrises views. From here you can experience the Mountain,Glacier and its moraine, beautiful valleys, high pass mountain, the longest Ngozumpa glacier. The views from Gokyo Ri is the most scenic than view from Kala Pthar and Kongma-la Top. Descent to lodge and have a warm lunch then explore 5th lake and Cho Oyu Base Camp if you are okay.

Morning Activities: Gokyo Ri hike for sunrises views
Afternoon; Explore 5th Lake and Cho Oyu Base Camp. 
Overnight at Gokyo Village

Max Altitude: 4,470 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 6 km
08Day

Filling your belly with Mountain breakfast and heart and soul with stunning views trek back to Dole. Overnight at Guest House.
Optional, you can extend your trek duration to cover Everest Base Camp which will takes 4 days. After the exploration of Gokyo valley, trek to Renjo-la and trek to Thame and Namche baxar within the same time frame. The choice is yours!

Max Altitude: 3,440 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 7 km
09Day

Trek back to Namche Bazar through Khumjung villages. Along the way to Namche explore Kundge Hospital, Hillary School, Khumjung Monastery and back to Namche via Everest View Hotel.

Arrival and check in to Guest House.

 

Max Altitude: 3,440 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 8 km
10Day

Follow back to Dudh Koshi River, crossing the suspension bridges, passing Sherpa village of Manjo, Phakding, and Lukla. On the way, you will have a Lunch at Phakding. Your adventure will end at Lukla and you may join for the celebration in the evening. 

 

Max Altitude: 2,800 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6 hrs.Distance: 18 km
11Day

Your journey finally conclude here in Kathmandu. Arrival and transfer to your designated hotel. Rest of the time is free and evening join for fare well. 

Note: if your journey is in the month of April/May and October/November then you will be flying from Ramechhap to Lukla and back the same route due to the air traffic. Rest of the month, the flight resume from Kathmandu. 

Distance: Kathmandu-Ramechhap 130 km
Approx. Time Taken: 5 hrs.

Max Altitude: 1350 mMeals: Breakfast/ Lunch
Did not find what you are looking for?Reach out to our travel experts.
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Cost Details
Included
  • A complementary International Airport pick up on upon arrival.
  • Local transfers for your domestic flight x 2 times (drop/pickup)
  • Kathmandu /Lukla /Kathmandu Flight including departure TAX
  • 15kg trek Luggage access on your Lukla flights
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
  • Rural Municipality Entry Permits
  • Experienced Trek Leader including his meals, accommodation, daily wages, Insurance and trek gear.
  • 10-night twin sharing accommodation in mountain teahouses
  • Staff insurance and necessary ground transport for support staff
  • 10x breakfast, 11x lunch and 11 x Dinner 
  • Fare well Dinner in Kathmandu after the trip.
  • Services which are not mentioned in above is extra.
Excluded
  • International flight tickets to Nepal
  • Nepal Visa fees, Visa cost 30 USD, 50 USD and 125 USD for 15 days, 30 days and 90 days respectively. Nowadays, you can buy visa before arriving Nepal. E-visa is available.
  • All kinds of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic and Hot and Cold)
  • Personal Trekking gears and Travel Insurance
  • Necessary Trekking gears
  • Extra night hotel accommodation incase of early return from mountain than schedule itinerary.
Dates & Availability
Select Departure Date
Mar 2025
Apr 2025
May 2025
Jun 2025
Jul 2025
Aug 2025
Sep 2025
Oct 2025
Nov 2025
Dec 2025
Jan 2026
Starts:
March 31, 2025
Ends:
April 10, 2025
Status:
Guaranteed
Price:
US$1075
Availability:

Gokyo Lake is a moderate to challenging trek in Nepal. Embark on our 11 days trek leading with prefessional and knowledgable leader. We do departure daily in the pick seasonal time. 

Add-ons & Options
  • Porter Cost 230 USD: In our offer package, the porter cost is not included. Our porter is friendly, strong, got a guide porter training, smilling, and familiar with local community. The cost of porter includes his meals & accommodation, salary, insurance, & trek gear. A porter carry 20-25 kg of bagpack which can be share by two client. 
  • Helicopter Flight to Lukla & Back: Lukla flight is the best mountain flight you will ever take it! The views is nothing than world class!  Sometime the weather leads flights delay and cancellation to Lukla due to weather. Helicopter fly would be the best option for Everest region flights.Taking Helicopter flight gives you more time for good night sleep before flying to Mountain. The advantage of taking a Helicopter fly is they can fly when the weather is not favourable for regular plane flights. The cost of the sharing heli flight cost per person 500/ USD for . 
  • Hotel Booking in Kathmandu: We have also some selection of the hotel in Kathmandu and if you would like to book with us, feel free to let our experts. The hotel cost ranges from 40 USD per night including breakfast, Wi-Fi in a central location.
  • Local Transportation: All the Lukla flights schedules from Ramechhap  (in April, May, October and November) due to the air traffic in Kathmandu. Our package includes the private sharing bus to and from Ramechhap. A private car transport is available for an additional cost 190 USD.one way. 
FAQs

Some people choose not to take a guide while trekking in EBC because they are unaware of the risks that come with trekking in high-altitude regions. It is not a compulsion but a necessity one requires and the choice is always upon the trekkers.

Hiring a guide for the Everest Base Camp trek ensures risk management, safety, and expert navigation over challenging terrain. Guides offer useful information, aid with acclimatization, and, if needed, provide critical support during an emergency evacuation. You can focus on the travel knowing that you're in capable hands.

Absolutely, one requires a permit of Khumbu Rural Municipality and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.

Yes, they will all be managed by the local company you choose to trek with.

Great cardiovascular endurance, proper acclimatization, management skills, and risk management skills are major things to be considered for traveling solo in EBC. Besides, it is equally important to be aware of high-altitude sickness and it should never be considered lightly. Emergency evacuation must be done in case of HACE and HAPE symptoms.

From Namche Bazar, it takes only five days to walk to Everest Base Camp. The trek can be completed in 12 days from Kathmandu to EBC to Kathmandu. Nonetheless, EBC Trek can be completed in 8 days if you are a advance trekkers.

Don’t ask! come and experience it for yourself!!!!! I bet this to be one of the best decisions ever!!!

It depends, Where you are planning to go for trekking? If you are planning the Upper Mustang and Dolpo Trek then surely the summer season (June, July, and August) is the best month for trekking. If you are planning for the Everest region, Annapurna region, Langtang valley, and the eastern part of trekking then March to May and September to December are the best time for trekking and hiking in Nepal. These months offer moderate temperatures and clear visibility. If you plan for winter months (January and February) then a small low-altitude trek is the best option.

The cost of the Everest Base Camp is way cheaper than climbing any mountain in Nepal. Of course, some factors determine the EBC trek cost like Trekking season, group size, mode of transport, accommodation type, and services you are looking for. The 12-day Everest Base Camp trek price starts from 1075 USD per person.

Yes, a beginner can trek to Everest Base Camp. Trekking in the higher altitude of EBC is all about proper acclimatization and physical fitness. The walks are gonna be up and down in the major trekking route. You need to be able to hike about 5 to 6 hours in the rocky terrain. There are no technical climbs but you are going to stand on 5460m above the sea level.

Everest Base Camp is a 12 day journey from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. It is 130 km up and down in total, it takes about 7 days to reach Base Camp. After the 30-minute flight to Lukla, the EBC journey begins.

Tipping is a common practice in the Tourism industry in Nepal. The amount depends on the appreciation of their work. Simply, if having 12 days EBC trek then 100 to 150 USD is good tipping.

High Altitude Sickness is known as Acute Mountain Sickness which occurs at a high altitude. If the body is unable to adjust to the low level of oxygen in the high altitude. The symptoms are headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. To prevent AMS, ascend slowly, avoid cigarettes and alcohol, properly acclimatize, drink plenty of water descend about (300-500) m.

Yes, there are some trekking destinations where you can hike independently. A Guide or porter is mandatory as per Nepal Government rules dated April 1, 2023.

The cost of the trek depends on several factors like trek duration, trek region, trek route, Number of participants, and services that you require. A budget trek costs about 60 USD a day and a luxury Trek costs 300 USD a day. It is better to deal with a company.

A Nepal Entry Visa is necessary for most of the Nationals which can be obtained from Embassies, Consulates, or upon arrival in Kathmandu International Airport or any entry port. Visa costs are 30 USD, 50 USD, and 125 USD for 15 days, 30 days, and 90 days respectively.

Yes, Nepal is a 100% safe travel destination. But for trekking and mountaineering, you need a proper preparation. The High Mountain terrain, high altitude, and weather can cause a terrible situation sometimes. So, follow the government suggestion by taking a guide through a registered company which has been mandatory since April 1, 2023.

Just in case note these Numbers:

Nepal Tourist Police:1144
Tourist Police ASSISTANCE: 100
Your Local trekking Company: +9779841485631

The trekking accommodation ranges from basic tea houses to deluxe accommodations in some regions. The accommodation comfort level is depending one trekking area to another. In the Everest and Annapurna regions, there are an adequate number of standard accommodations that include an attached bathe room with hot and cold showers. But if you are trekking in off-the-beaten-path then Tented accommodation is available.

Ultimately, Physical fitness, Trek gear, and personal determination are the most important to accomplish the EBC trek in Nepal. Please visit here for the details of the trek gear.

Good physical fitness is the most important factor for trekking in Nepal. Most treks involve 5 to 7 hours of walking a day at a high altitude and a good level makes a big difference. Cardiothoracic and strength training is recommended.

The difficulty level depends on person to person. It ranges from easy to strenuous. The level of the difficulties is determined by altitude, distance, terrain, and climate as well. Simply Everest Base Camp trek to Annapurna Circuit consider strenuous whereas Langtang Valley and Ghorepani poon Hill trek are categorized as easy and short trek in Nepal.

Inspiring Travel Experiences
What our clients say?
What an amazing experience!
December 14, 2024

Trekking to Gokyo Lakes sounds like a perfect choice, especially with the opportunity for acclimatization and local sightseeing. I love that Global Eco Trails decided to skip the busy base...

read more +
L
Lea
Germany
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