Gokyo Lake Trek – 12 Days
USD 1132
12 Days
Moderate
5357m
Hotels, Tea house, Camp
flight/ private vehicle
2-30
Spring and Autumn(Feb, Mar, Apri, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec)
Gokyo Lake Trek – 12 Days Brief Insight
Gokyo Lake Trek is the most peaceful trek in the Everest Region. It is less crowded. However, it is the best trek to experience once in a lifetime. This trek takes you to the abundant glacier surrounded by many snow-capped beautiful mountains. The pride of trekking to such an elegant place remains in your heart forever and is never forgotten.
Gokyo Lakes lies west of Ngozumpa Glacier in the Khumbu Region of Solukhumbu District. This trek takes you to a viewpoint at an altitude of 5357 m, Gokyo Ri. The abundant glacier lakes with turquoise features are such a priceless sight to cherish.
You will be mesmerized by the local Himalayan lifestyle, Sherpa villages, and their cultures and traditions. The loving and welcoming Sherpa people will welcome you. Interactions with them enjoying their traditional food will surely impress you.
Gokyo Lake Trek is a moderate trek that amazes you with the remote trails along the journey. The steep ascents and descents and the rocky pattern of trials teach you to be determined for a successful destination.
Your tiring journey from the tiny villages of the Himalayan Region to the gorgeous destination is very worth it. Namche Bazaar, the trading point of the Everest Region, makes you happy with its lively existence. You can meet many trekkers and visit the markets of Namche Bazaar to have fun during acclimatization.
Highlights of Gokyo Lake Trek – 12 Days
- Experience a typical sherpa town, Namche Bazaar, the main entrance to the Himalayas and the trading point of the Everest Region.
- Immerse yourself into the traditional Himalayan lifestyle, cultures, food, and dialects.
- Enjoy the sights of Glacier lakes, rivers, waterfalls, mesmerizing landscapes and panoramic snow-capped mountains.
- Learn about the unique flora and fauna passing through Sagarmatha National Park.
- Feel mesmerized by the beauty of the Lake and turquoise water of Gokyo Lakes.
- Steep climb to Gokyo Ri (5357 m) for panoramic view of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu
- Opportunity to visit the largest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa Glacier
- Visit the Khumjung village during the trek, the oldest school established by Sir Edmund Hillary.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m)
- Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla(2860 m, 35 mins), Trek to Phakding (2651 m, 3 hrs)
- Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3438 m, 5 to 6 hrs)
- Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
- Day 05: Namche to Dole (3680 m, 6 hrs)
- Day 06: Dole to Machhermo (3870 m, 4 hrs)
- Day 07: Machhermo to Gokyo, Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri (4800 m, 4 hrs)
- Day 08: Gokyo to Machhermo, Morning hike to Gokyo 4th Lake (5357 m, 4 hrs)
- Day 09: Machhermo to Namche Bazaar (3438 m, 8 hrs)
- Day 10: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2860 m, 7 hrs)
- Day 11: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1300 m, 35 mins)
- Day 12: Final Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m)
After you land your flight at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team members will pick you up, and we will drive you to the booked hotel. You can meet your guide there and discuss the trekking itinerary for the following days. You can enjoy the Kathmandu city tour in the afternoon.
You can make the necessary arrangements and pack your trekking bags. If necessary, you can stroll around the Thamel area and shop for trekking gear. After dinner, have a sound sleep; the next day, you will start your trek officially.
Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla(2860 m, 35 mins), Trek to Phakding (2651 m, 3 hrs)
The next day, we will take an early flight to Lukla. You can enjoy the scenic views of landscapes and mountains from the flight. We will reach Lukla after 35 to 40 minutes of flight. After reaching the airport, our trek officially begins.
We will catch up with Porter before we begin our trek. He will carry all your belongings, and we will head to Phakding together. Crossing a suspension bridge and passing a Buddhist monastery, we will reach Phakding and stay overnight in Phakding. You can enjoy the night view in the village surrounded by mountains.
Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3438 m, 5 to 6 hrs)
The next morning, we will head to the Namche Bazaar, the main entrance of the trekking region. After having breakfast, the trek begins, and we have to walk between 5 and 6 hours to reach Namche Bazaar.
The trails are full of ups and downs. On the way to Sagarmatha National Park, we must cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. We pass through the colorful rhododendron forest, meeting dozens of trekkers along the trail.
After reaching Namche Bazaar, you can enjoy your night stay and prepare to acclimatize here the next day. The night markets of Namche Bazaar are very fun to explore.
Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
The next day, we will acclimatize in Namche Bazaar. On this day, we will acclimatize properly by trekking to nearby places. We will also trek to Everest View Hotel to enjoy the view of Mount Everest.
During this visit, we will also enter Khumjung Village and learn about the oldest school established by Sir Edmund Hillary. We will stop by Khunde Hospital, also established by Sir Edmund Hillary.
Next, we can see the Buddhist monastery’s prayers and feel this environment’s serenity. Then, enjoy the traditional dishes of the Sherpa community while exploring the markets.
Day 05: Namche to Dole (3680 m, 6 hrs)
Next morning, we will hike to Dudh Kosi Valley, heading to Dole. On the way to Dole, we will pass by many Stupas and Mong villages. You can cherish the view of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Thamserku while descending into the pine and Rhododendron forests.
You can enjoy the waterfalls along the way to Dole. We have to climb stone stairs on the way. We will stay here for a night after reaching Dole, the final destination.
Day 06: Dole to Machhermo (3870 m, 4 hrs)
The next day, our destination will be Machhermo. The trail difficulty begins from here. We have to walk through steep climbs and then cross gently uphill to reach Machhermo.
Along the trails, you can enjoy the view of Thamserku while heading to the ridge of the village of Machhermo.
Day 07: Machhermo to Gokyo, Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri (4800 m, 4 hrs)
The next day, we must pass through another ridge with a view of Kangtega. Then, we will head to the narrow valley leading to the wider valley. This trek is not very difficult. We will walk through two steep sections and then descend to Dush Koshi.
After the steep climb to Ngozumpa Glacier, we will encounter the First Gokyo Lake. After walking North, we will come across a second lake that runs parallel to the trail for a while. On this day you will also get to see the third lake.
After reaching the tea house, we will have lunch and hike up to Gokyo Ri. You can enjoy the magnificent view of the Mountains above you with lakes and glaciers below. The sunset from Gokyo Ri is the main highlight of the day.
Day 08: Gokyo to Machhermo, Morning hike to Gokyo 4th Lake (5357 m, 4 hrs)
The next day, we will move to see the fourth Gokyo Lake along the flat trail. After enjoying the view of the Lake for a while, we will return to Gokyo Lake and then finally to Machhermo.
Day 09: Machhermo to Namche Bazaar (3438 m, 8 hrs)
The next day, we will head back to Namche Bazaar. After a week of trekking in the peaceful Himalayan region, we will reach a busy place with the hustle and bustle of many people. This will be the longest trekking day, with 8 hours of walk.
Day 10: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2860 m, 7 hrs)
The next day, following the same route from the beginning of the trek, we will head back to Lukla. Crossing the suspension bridges of Dudh Koshi, we will reach Lukla after 7 hours of walking. Then we will rest in Lukla for a night. The long trekking journey officially ends here. So, Cherish the last night in the lap of the Himalayas.
Day 11: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1300 m, 35 mins)
The next day, after bidding farewell to the porter, we will take a flight back to Kathmandu. From Lukla, it takes 35 minutes to reach the capital. Our team will receive us at the airport and drive back to the hotel we stayed at on the first day.
Day 12: Final Departure
Today, we will bid you farewell, hoping to see you again. Then, our team members will drive you to the airport for your departure. You can also stay in Kathmandu for a few more days. We will kindly expect you to be part of our journey in the upcoming days,
What is included in Gokyo Lake Trek – 12 Days
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the trail
- Night accommodation at tea houses during the trek and at hotels in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight
- Guide for 11 days
- Porter for 10 days
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Local Entry Permit
- Local transfer for international flights, both arrival and departure
- Local transfer for domestic flights, both arrival and departure
- Staff insurance, trekking equipment, transportation, meals and accommodation
What is Excluded
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Nepal Visa
- Drinks like water and others
- Personal Trekking Equipment
Packing Lists for Gokyo Lake Trek
Head Gears
- Sunhat/scarfs
- Sunglasses
- Face mask
- Neck muffs
Footwears
- Warm hiking socks
- Trekking shoes
- Pair of flip-flops
Hand wears
- Woolen gloves
- Waterproof gloves
Body wears
- Thermal sets
- Fleece jacket and trousers
- Down jacket
- Trekking pants
- Long Sleeve shirts
- Cotton trousers/shirts
- Underwear and swimming customs
Trekking Equipments
- Sleeping bag
- Backpack of 40L
- Trekking poles
- First-aid kit
- Trekking maps
- Reusable Water bottles
- Waterproof bag covers
Other Equipment
- Headlamp
- Small lock for backpack
- Water purification tablets
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Rain poncho
- Insect repellents
When to Visit Gokyo Lake Trek
Spring( March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best seasons for the Gokyo Lake Trek. You can trek in other seasons with the help of professionals. But if you wish for a comfortable trek, we recommend you for a seasonal trek.
Spring Season ( March-May)
Spring is the best time to trek Gokyo Lakes. The weather and atmosphere of this season are pleasant and favorable for trekking. The climate is moderate, neither hot nor cold, and persists throughout the season. It is mildly warm during Spring, with sunny days and chilly nights.
Spring is also known as the blooming season. So you can witness lush green forests and colorful flowers blooming along the trail. Everything is perfect during this season, attracting many trekkers to enjoy the trek.
Autumn Season (September-November)
Autumn is also the best season to trek this region. The weather is fine, neither cold nor hot, with bearable temperatures. The climate is temperate, with low humidity throughout the season. The days are warm and bright, while nights are crisp and chillier.
It is fall season, so changing tree leaves and colors are highlights of the trek. It is also a seasonal trek, so you coincide with many trekkers along the route, making it busy.
Summer Season (June-April)
Summer is also called monsoon season, which means lots of downpours, making trails challenging to trek. The highest rainfall, tropical storms, and lighting make it more challenging. So, we don’t recommend it in this season.
The foggy weather and cloudy days make the journey very uncomfortable. It obstructs the visibility of nature. The regular rainfalls make the trail muddy and slippery.
Also, the weather is hot and dry, leading to dehydration and sunburn.
Winter Season (December-February)
Winter is cold, damp, wet, and frigid. The temperature drops up to -18 degrees. The heavy snow and ice keep the trekkers away during winter. Many accommodations can be out of service during winter. The deadly snow and slippery trails make it difficult to trek.
You can enjoy the best winter views with snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and stunning scenery. Fresh snow on the rooftop of the cottage house gives authentic vibes.
Winter is suitable if you enjoy a cold climate without any crowds.
Gokyo Lake Trek Difficulty
The difficulty of the Gokyo Lake Trek is moderate. But it can be challenging if the weather conditions change. The weather at such a high altitude is unpredictable. So, weather is the main obstruction during the trek.
The condition of trials decides how long the journey will persist. The steep climbs and rugged terrains are difficult to walk on. If the trails are muddy and slippery, then it becomes more challenging. Also, the paths destroyed by landslides take a lot of time to pass through.
Another main difficulty is altitude sickness. Gokyo Lake Trek takes you to a maximum altitude of 5357 m. There is a high chance of suffering from altitude sickness. Altitude Sickness can be prevented by proper acclimatization and medication. But if it is serious, you must descend quickly, making your journey incomplete.