About Gokyo Lakes Trek
Often known as Gokyo Valley Trek and Gokyo Lake Trek, it is shorter than regular Lukla to Everest Base Camp trekking. It is one of the most adventurous and exploratory trek with a series of high alpine lakes. Also, the elevation at Gokyo RI is the highest measuring 5364 m from the sea level. Gokyo Valley Trekking offers you an extraordinary and once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness the beauty of the world’s tallest and prettiest mountains, and exquisite glaciers, including Ngozumpa glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas and second in the world. This journey takes you through the magnificent valleys of Dudh Koshi, rich in typical biodiversity, century-old Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Sherpa villages and finally brings you to the footsteps of the renowned Namche Bazaar, the epitome of Sherpa civilization and a gateway to classic Everest route. Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri trek are for those who like to walk in the Everest region without the physical stress of reaching the base camp of Everest or crossing high passes in the vicinity.
Trip Highlights
- Gokyo Lake trekking is also known as a smart trek in the Everest region.
- Get to experience the warm and welcoming hospitality of the Sherpa people
- Explore Namche Bazaar(the junction point for all Everest region treks like 3 pass via Renjo la, EBC trek or Gokyo trek via Dhole).
- You will pass the route by the Dudhkoshi River, also known as the Milk River.
- The thrilling beauty of lakes with Himalayan shadow.
- Incredible view of Mt. Everest (8848m), Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Makalu (8481m) and other peaks
- On the way back from Gokyo to Namche bazar you can have two options either you get back via Machhermo or get back via Renjo La pass
- As per different trekking experts, the Gokyo Lake trek is the best trek for the view.
Tour Overview
Offering an equally spectacular experience without the high-altitude throngs, the Gokyo Lakes Trek is a beautiful substitute for the traditional Everest Base Camp walk. Beginning with a picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the trek ascends slowly through Sherpa towns such Phakding and Namche Bazaar following the lovely Dudh Koshi Valley. From Namche, the path departs from the main EBC route and travels toward the tranquil Gokyo Valley, which contains a sequence of six turquoise glacial lakes; the fifth lake provides near views of the Ngozumpa Glacier—the largest glacier in the Himalayas. The climb to Gokyo Ri (5,364 m), which provides some of the finest panoramic views in the Khumbu area—including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—is the high point of the trek.
Gokyo Lakes Trek for Spring/Summer/Autumn/Winter 2025 departures is now open for reservations.
Why do the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
Trekker looking for spectacular Himalayan scenery with a more tranquil path than the well-known EBC will find the Gokyo Lakes Trek perfect. It offers a one-of-a-kind chance to see the amazing view from Gokyo Ri—often said by experienced trekkers to be the best viewpoint in the whole Everest area—traverse high-altitude terrain, and investigate sacred glacial lakes. The walk also puts you in the Sherpa culture and lets you meet old monasteries and traditional communities. For those who wish to see the Everest area without the drive to Everest Base Camp or the difficulty of traversing several high passes, it is also a physically less taxing choice.
Gokyo Lakes Trek Cost?
The price of the Gokyo Lakes Trek changes depending on the length, lodging choices, and included amenities. Standard packages usually come with required permits, porters, guides, meals, and teahouse accommodation. Luxury lodge upgrades and private guide services are also offered for those looking more comfort. For tailored pricing and travel choices, get in touch with us directly.
What to Expect During the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
From forested valleys to alpine scenery and glacial moraines, trekkers should anticipate 5–7 hours of walking daily over several different terrains. Key is acclimatization; planned rest days such as the one at Namche Bazaar will assist in altitude adjustment. Though it offers unrivaled mountain views, the highest point, Gokyo Ri (5,364 m), calls for a steep climb. Mostly in teahouses, which are basic yet pleasant, accommodation is The weather in the Himalayas can change quickly, thus correct equipment and layering are absolutely vital. The walk is physically moderate to difficult and is appropriate for fit hikers with some hiking experience.
Gokyo Lakes Trek – Distances and Elevations
| Trekking Route | Distance (Kilometers) | Duration (Hours) | Altitude (Meters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight: Kathmandu to Lukla | 140 | 40 mins | 2860 |
| Trek Lukla to Phakding | 8 | 3 to 4 | 2610 |
| Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 10 | 6 | 3440 |
| Namche Bazaar (acclimatization hike to Khumjung/Kunde) | Varies | 3 to 5 | 3440–3900+ |
| Trek Namche Bazaar to Machhermo | 10–11 | 6 to 7 | 4470 |
| Trek Machhermo to Gokyo | 7 | 6 to 7 | 4790 |
| Gokyo Ri (acclimatization hike) | 3–4 (round trip) | 3 to 5 | 5360 |
| Trek Gokyo to Dole | 7–8 | 3 to 4 | 4200 |
| Trek Dole to Monjo | 12–14 | 6 to 7 | 2880 |
| Trek Monjo to Lukla | 13 | 4 | 2860 |
| Flight: Lukla to Kathmandu | 140 | 40 mins | 1300 |
| Kathmandu Departure | — | — | 1300 |
