Gokyo Lake Trek

Overview

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a stunning adventure that takes trekkers into the heart of the Khumbu region, offering a unique alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp Trek. Located at an elevation of 4,700 meters (15,400 feet), the trek leads you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Nepal. The trek’s highlight is a visit to the Gokyo Lakes, a series of glacial lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. These turquoise lakes are known for their serene beauty and form one of the most picturesque settings in the Himalayas, providing trekkers with an opportunity to experience both natural beauty and local Sherpa culture in a more tranquil environment compared to the crowded Everest Base Camp trail.

The Gokyo Lake Trek begins with a flight to Lukla, followed by a trek through traditional Sherpa villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Dole, where trekkers can enjoy the stunning Himalayan views and the warmth of Sherpa hospitality. The trek also takes you through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rocky moraine landscapes, providing a diverse trekking experience. One of the major highlights of the trek is the ascent to Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet), where trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Everest massif and the surrounding peaks. The Gokyo Lake Trek offers not only a spectacular trekking experience but also an opportunity for trekkers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world and the unique culture of the Sherpa people.

Major Places for Gokyo Lake Trek

Along the Gokyo Lake Trek, trekkers will pass through a number of stunning locations that offer cultural and scenic beauty. Lukla, the starting point of the trek, is where trekkers take a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to begin their Himalayan adventure. From Lukla, trekkers journey to Phakding, a small village located along the Dudh Koshi River, offering a peaceful introduction to the trek. As the trek continues, trekkers ascend to Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Khumbu region, where visitors can acclimatize and explore local markets, cafes, and Sherpa culture.

From Namche, trekkers head towards Dole and then to Machhermo, where trekkers gain further altitude and experience the dramatic changes in scenery as the landscape transforms into alpine meadows and rugged terrain. The main destination of the trek is Gokyo, where trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of the Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding peaks. Gokyo Ri, a short but steep climb from Gokyo, offers one of the best panoramic views in the Everest region, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. After spending time at Gokyo, trekkers retrace their steps back to Lukla, concluding a memorable and fulfilling trekking journey.

Why Choose Us - Chingu Treks and Tours

When you choose Chingu Treks and Tours for your Gokyo Lake Trek, you’re selecting a company that prioritizes safety, comfort, and unforgettable experiences in the Himalayas. Our team consists of professional and experienced guides, many of whom are local Sherpas with intimate knowledge of the region. They are not only skilled at navigating the rugged terrain, but they also provide valuable insight into the rich culture, history, and traditions of the Sherpa people. This local expertise ensures that your trek is both enjoyable and safe, giving you the best possible experience as you explore the beauty of the Khumbu region.

At Chingu Treks and Tours, we believe in delivering a personalized trekking experience. We understand that every trekker has different needs and preferences, which is why we offer customized itineraries to suit various levels of fitness and trekking experience. Whether you're looking for a more relaxed pace or an adventurous challenge, our team will ensure your itinerary aligns with your goals. We also provide top-quality trekking gear, comfortable teahouse accommodations, and excellent support throughout your journey. By choosing us, you’ll not only gain access to expert guidance but also contribute to responsible tourism practices that benefit the local communities and environment. Let us help you create memories of a lifetime on the Gokyo Lake Trek!

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Chingu Treks and Tours and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can take some time to relax after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your trekking team, where your guide will brief you about the upcoming trek and provide an overview of the itinerary.

Day 2 : Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding

This morning, you will take an early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m), one of the most exciting airstrips in the world. The 30-minute flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival at Lukla, your trek begins with a scenic walk through the lush valleys and villages. The route follows the Dudh Koshi River, leading you to the village of Phakding (2,610 m), where you will spend the night in a comfortable lodge.

Day 3 : Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Today, the trek takes you through a beautiful pine forest, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. You will cross the Dudh Koshi River before making a steep climb towards Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). Namche is the vibrant capital of the Khumbu region, famous for its Sherpa culture and bustling market. Along the way, you’ll be treated to your first views of Everest and other peaks. Upon reaching Namche, check in to your lodge for the night.

Day 4 : Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

As part of the acclimatization process, today is a rest day in Namche Bazaar. The town offers plenty of options for short hikes to aid in acclimatization. You can hike up to the Everest View Hotel for a breathtaking panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You may also choose to visit the local Sherpa museum or explore the vibrant town itself. Acclimatization is important for your body to adjust to the altitude, and today’s short hikes will help with that.

Day 5 : Namche Bazaar to Dole

After breakfast, you will begin your trek towards Dole (4,040 m). The trail gradually ascends through forests of pine and rhododendron, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. As you walk along the ridge, you will get glimpses of the majestic Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks in the Khumbu region. Upon reaching Dole, a small settlement with a few lodges, you will rest for the night.

Day 6 : Dole to Machhermo

Today, you will trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470 m). The path gradually ascends through beautiful alpine meadows, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains. As you ascend, the landscape changes, becoming more rugged and barren. Upon reaching Machhermo, you will be greeted with spectacular views of Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest mountain. Spend the night in a lodge, with ample time to relax and acclimatize.

Day 7 : Machhermo to Gokyo (Afternoon Hike to Gokyo Ri)

Today, the trek takes you from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790 m), one of the most scenic destinations in the Everest region. As you walk along the edge of the glacial lakes, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, including the towering peaks of Cho Oyu and the Gokyo Ri. Upon reaching Gokyo, you will check in to your lodge. In the afternoon, you will hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), a viewpoint offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Return to Gokyo for the night.

Day 8 : Gokyo to Machhermo (Morning Hike to Gokyo 4th Lake)

Today, after breakfast, you will trek back to Machhermo, retracing your steps down the trail. Before descending, you will take a morning hike to the 4th Gokyo Lake, located above the main Gokyo Lakes. This beautiful, turquoise lake is a serene spot to take in the natural beauty of the region. Afterward, you will descend back to Machhermo, where you will rest for the night. The day’s trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Day 9 : Machhermo to Namche Bazaar

From Machhermo, you will begin your descent back towards Namche Bazaar. The trail winds through scenic forests and across rivers, with incredible views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. As you descend, the air grows warmer, and you will pass through several small villages, where you can interact with the local Sherpa people. Upon reaching Namche, you will have time to relax, reflect on your journey, and enjoy a comfortable night in the village.

Day 10 : Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Today, you will trek back to Lukla. The trail takes you through lush forests and past traditional Sherpa villages, retracing the path you took at the beginning of the trek. Once in Lukla, you will have the afternoon to relax and reflect on your incredible adventure through the Everest region. In the evening, you can enjoy a celebratory dinner with your trekking team, marking the end of your trek.

Day 11 : Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)

After breakfast, you will take a morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range as you return to the bustling capital. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the city, relax, or shop for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking team and Chingu Treks and Tours staff, sharing memories of the incredible experiences of the Gokyo Lake Trek.

Day 12 : Final Departure

On your final day in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Whether you are heading home or continuing your travels, you will leave with unforgettable memories of the majestic Gokyo Lakes and the breathtaking landscapes of the Everest region. Safe travels and we hope to see you again soon!

Trip code
Package name	Gokyo Lake Trek
Duration	12
Max. elevation	5357 m
Level	Moderate
Transportation	Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary
Accomodation	3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek
Starts at	Kathmandu
Ends at	Kathmandu
Trip route
Cost	USD 0 per person