Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lake Trek takes you deep into the heart of the Everest region, offering a peaceful alternative to the busy Everest Base Camp trail. This journey follows the scenic Dudh Koshi River, leading you to the shimmering turquoise lakes of Gokyo Valley, and the breathtaking viewpoint of Gokyo Ri (5...

  • Activities
    Trekking
  • Best Season
    Mar–May & Sep–Nov
  • Currency
    USD
  • Country
    Everest Region
  • Difficulty
    moderate
  • Group Size
    1 - 20
  • Map URL
    N/A
  • Video URL
    N/A

Trip Highlights

  • Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
  • Serene turquoise Gokyo Lakes (4,790m)
  • Cultural encounters in Sherpa villages
  • Peaceful alternative to the crowded Everest Base Camp trail
  • Spectacular flight from Kathmandu to Lukla
  • Trek alongside the majestic Ngozumpa Glacier
  • Breathtaking sunrise from Gokyo Ri (5,357m)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

1400m
6 hours

You’ll be warmly greeted at Tribhuvan International Airport and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a welcome briefing about your upcoming trek. The evening is free to explore Thamel’s vibrant markets. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,840m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

2610m
4 hours

Early morning, take a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. After meeting your porter, begin trekking through rhododendron forests and Sherpa villages to Phakding. Overnight at a tea house.

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

3440m
7 hours

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, climb steadily to Namche Bazaar — the bustling Sherpa capital. Overnight in Namche.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

3440m
4 hours

Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Hike up to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Explore the Sherpa Museum or enjoy a coffee in Namche’s cozy cafés.

Day 5: Trek from Namche to Dole (4,200m)

4200m
7 hours

Leaving the main EBC route, ascend through pine and birch forests with magnificent views of Cho Oyu. Pass the small settlements of Mong La and Phortse Tenga before reaching Dole. Overnight in Dole.

Day 6: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)

4470m
4 hours

A short but steep climb brings you to the beautiful alpine pastures of Machhermo. This village offers spectacular mountain views and serves as an excellent acclimatization stop. Overnight in Machhermo.

Day 7: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)

4790m
5 hours

The trail climbs alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier — the longest glacier in Nepal. You’ll pass a series of turquoise lakes before arriving at the mesmerizing Gokyo Village, located beside the third Gokyo Lake. Overnight in Gokyo.

Day 8: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Explore Gokyo Lakes

5357m
5 hours

Wake up early for a climb to Gokyo Ri, where you’ll witness one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast glacier below. After descending, spend the day exploring the sacred Gokyo Lakes and resting in the village. Overnight in Gokyo.

Day 9: Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4,200m)

4200m
7 hours

Retrace your steps down the valley with beautiful views and a relaxing pace. Overnight in Dole.

Day 10: Trek from Dole to Lukla via Namche Bazaar (2,840m)

2840m
8 hours

Descend through forests and Sherpa villages, returning to Lukla by late afternoon. Celebrate the completion of your trek with your guide and porters. Overnight in Lukla.

Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu & Departure

1400m
1 hours

Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel or onward destination.

Inclusions in the Gokyo Lake Trek

Price Excluded

Fixed Departures

From USD 1290 per adult. Price varies by group size.