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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a stunning trekking route in the Everest Region of Nepal. This trek takes you to the picturesque Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise alpine lakes nestled at the foot of Mount Cho Oyu (8,188 meters). The trek also offers panoramic views of the Everest massif, including peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. One of the highlights of the trek is reaching the Gokyo Ri Summit (5,357 meters), which offers one of the best views of Everest and its surrounding peaks. This trek is often considered a more serene alternative to the busy Everest Base Camp Trek.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is classified as a moderate trek, but it can still be challenging due to the altitude. The highest point of the trek is Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters, which can lead to altitude sickness if proper acclimatization is not followed. The trekking days are long, and the terrain is rugged, but there are no technical climbing sections. With gradual ascents, proper acclimatization, and a moderate level of fitness, the trek is suitable for trekkers with some experience in high-altitude trekking.
The best time to trek to Gokyo Lake is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is clear, the skies are bright, and temperatures are moderate, making it ideal for trekking. The spring season is famous for blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crystal-clear views of the snow-capped peaks. Avoid trekking during the monsoon (June to August) due to the risk of rain, slippery trails, and potential landslides. Winter (December to February) can also be challenging due to extreme cold temperatures at higher altitudes.
The Gokyo Lake Trek typically takes 12 to 14 days, depending on the route you choose and the pace at which you trek. This allows for proper acclimatization and enough rest days, ensuring that you can enjoy the scenery while adjusting to the altitude. The trek begins with a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu and concludes back in Lukla after visiting the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri.
The highest point of the Gokyo Lake Trek is Gokyo Ri, which stands at an elevation of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). The climb to Gokyo Ri is challenging but rewarding, offering panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other peaks. From Gokyo Ri, trekkers are treated to one of the most breathtaking mountain vistas in the world.
Accommodation on the Gokyo Lake Trek is generally in tea houses (guesthouses) along the route. These tea houses offer basic facilities such as a bed with blankets, meals, and sometimes hot showers (for an extra fee). As you ascend higher, the facilities become more basic, but they are sufficient for trekkers to rest and recharge. Chingu Treks and Tours works with a network of trusted and well-maintained tea houses to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trek.
The meals provided during the trek include a combination of Nepali, Sherpa, and Western dishes. Typical meals include dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, soup, potatoes, and fried rice. Breakfast usually includes items like porridge, eggs, toast, and pancakes. There are also options for snacks like chocolate, nuts, and energy bars. You will have enough variety to maintain your energy levels, but keep in mind that food becomes more basic as you ascend. Chingu Treks and Tours ensures that you have a balanced diet throughout the trek to fuel your body.
Altitude sickness is a common concern on treks above 3,000 meters, and the Gokyo Lake Trek involves altitudes above 4,500 meters. To prevent altitude sickness:
1. Ascend gradually and allow time for acclimatization by taking rest days.
2. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
3. If you experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath, inform your guide immediately. In some cases, descending to a lower altitude may be necessary.
Chingu Treks and Tours incorporates rest days in the itinerary and provides expert guides who monitor trekkers for signs of altitude sickness.
The weather on the Gokyo Lake Trek varies with altitude, but it generally includes clear skies, sunny days, and cool nights during the peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn). Lower regions (like Lukla and Namche Bazaar) will have mild daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). As you ascend, temperatures drop, especially at night. At higher altitudes (around Gokyo Ri), it can be freezing, with temperatures often falling below 0°C (32°F). It’s essential to carry proper clothing to stay warm, especially at higher elevations.
The cost of the Gokyo Lake Trek with Chingu Treks and Tours typically includes:
Permits (Everest National Park Permit, TIMS card)
Domestic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and back
Experienced trekking guides and porters
Tea house accommodations along the route
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Pre-trek briefing and map
Emergency evacuation support (including helicopter rescue if needed)
First aid kit and oxygen support
Insurance for trekking staff
Additional expenses such as personal gear, alcoholic drinks, snacks, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. The Gokyo Lake Trek is a moderate-level trek that requires good physical fitness and the ability to handle long days of walking on uneven terrain. If you have trekked at high altitudes or have experience on multi-day treks, you will be well-prepared. For beginners, we recommend doing some training, such as hiking on inclines or taking shorter treks, to build your stamina. Chingu Treks and Tours provides expert guides and support to help you throughout the trek.
If you are unable to continue the trek due to altitude sickness, injury, or any other issue, Chingu Treks and Tours has emergency evacuation plans in place. We can arrange for a helicopter rescue to take you back to lower altitudes or to Kathmandu for further medical treatment. Your safety is our priority, and our experienced guides will always ensure that you receive the proper care and attention.
Yes, after completing the Gokyo Lake Trek, many trekkers choose to extend their journey by visiting Everest Base Camp. It’s a great way to experience the iconic base camp while being in the heart of the Everest region. Chingu Treks and Tours can help you customize your itinerary if you want to visit Everest Base Camp or explore other areas in the Everest region after completing the Gokyo trek.
