Throughout the Gokyo Lake Trek - 12 Days, you are provided a chance to immerse yourself in the authentic Sherpa culture, visit peaceful monasteries, and stay in local teahouses, where you are welcomed with warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine. The route takes you through impressive Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the longest glaciers in Nepal.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is truly one of the most stunning and awe-inspiring adventures you can undertake in the Everest region of Nepal. This Lake Trek journey takes about 12 days, passing through breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural experiences, and mesmerizing high-altitude challenges. Unlike the more popular routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, the Gokyo route provides an alternative option, perfect for trekkers looking for tranquility, stunning vistas, and a unique experience.
The journey starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu or Manthali towards Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region of Nepal, and an amazing spot located between the mountains. From here, the trail takes you through delightful Sherpa villages, dense pine forests, and alongside the flowing Dudh Koshi River. As you ascend, the scenery transforms, with thick forests, giving you views of the spectacular alpine valleys, with majestic snow-capped peaks towering all around.
The major highlight of the Gokyo Lake Trek is reaching the Gokyo Valley, where you find a series of breathtaking turquoise lakes around you. The high-altitude lakes, located above 4,700 meters, are considered to hold great significance for both Buddhists and Hindus, providing a chance to hike towards Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), a rocky summit that boasts some of the most spectacular panoramic views in Nepal. Reaching the top, you are treated to impressive vistas of towering mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a moderate to challenging adventure, ideal for those who have proper fitness and have a great passion for the mountains. This trek offers incredible rewards without the crowds, making it one of the best alternative treks to Everest and the Annapurna region in Nepal.
Whether you want to witness the jaw-dropping mountain views, experience the rich culture of the locals, or feel the serene beauty of the Himalayas, the Gokyo Lake Trek promises an unforgettable journey in the heart of Sagarmatha National Park.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a scenic journey in the Everest region, famous for its turquoise glacial lakes and panoramic Himalayan views. The trek can be done throughout the year, but spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are peak seasons where you feel a different experience in terms of weather, scenery, and trail conditions.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best seasons for the Gokyo Lake Trek, as the weather is moderate and stable, with clear skies and warmer daytime temperatures. During this time, the trails are filled with rhododendron forests, adding vibrant colors to the landscapes. Mountain views, including Everest and Cho Oyu, are mesmerizing and uninterrupted. Trails are moderately busy, but not overcrowded. This season is ideal for photography, comfortable trekking conditions, and enjoying both nature and mountain scenery in full bloom.
Summer (June to August)
The monsoon season is the least recommended time for climbing Tent Peak. Heavy rainfall causes muddy trails, risks of landslides, and poor visibility, especially in the lower valleys. Leeches and insects are also common, with clouds often obstructing the mountain views. While the trek is possible, climbing during the monsoon is not advisable unless you are prepared for delays, wet gear, and increased. Some experienced climbers use this time for solitude, but it is generally best to avoid this season.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is considered the best season for the Gokyo Lake Trek because of stable weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility. This time offers you fresh mountain air, dust-free trails, and spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. During this time, the temperatures are moderate at daytime and cool at night, providing comfortable trekking conditions. This season also coincides with major local festivals like Dashain and Tihar, allowing trekkers to experience rich culture along the way.
GOKYO VALLEY TREK
Situated in the Khumbu region, Gokyo Valley captivates hundreds of adrenaline rushers towards its vicinity bestowing varieties of trip activities. Dwelling the world’s highest hill; Gokyo Ri (5,483m), Gokyo Valley Trek encompasses you through delightful villages, amazing views of the iconic Himalayas, fascinating lakes, and world’s biggest ice glacier i.e. Ngozumpa Glacier. This 13-day trek to Gokyo valley initiates with the flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. After your arrival at Lukla, we will be trekking towards Namche Bazaar (3,440m) passing through Phakding. Then we will continue your journey towards Gokyo valley via Machharmo (4,407m) exploring the Ngozumpa Glacier. The trails are peaceful and challenging; tries to test the audacity of your knees. After reaching Gokyo, we will hike towards Gokyo Ri where you can witness the eye-popping views of Gokyo Lake, panoramic views of mountain ranges including Mt. Everest (8,848m), and absolute landscapes. Autumn and Spring are the best seasons to explore Gokyo valley.
Upon setting foot in the country of the Himalayas and ancient culture, you will be warmly greeted by our representatives at the airport. Later, you will be relocated by our representatives at the hotel that has been booked.
Our adventure begins the minute we board the flight from Kathmandu to the notorious Tenzing Hillary Airport at Lukla. Marvel at the absolutely stunning views as you fly above the Himalayas. After getting to Lukla, we hike down to Phakding, through several villages encountering and learning about the local culture.
Today, we head to the gateway to the Himalayas, Namche Bazaar. This grueling trek will present make you a part of the local culture and people. As you talk along the Dudh Koshi river, enjoy the views of the majestic Himalayas that seem like a stone’s throw away. Upon getting to Namche Bazaar, relax yourselves with some warm Tibetan butter tea.
Namche Bazaar is a perfect spot for you to explore and learn more about the lifestyle and culture of the inhabitants of the Himalayan region. Namche Bazaar also has plenty of cool restaurants, bars, bakeries and internet cafes. Enjoy your last day in the vicinity of modernity by sending friends and family messages and devouring some delicious food.
Today, we make our way to Dole. Along the way, enjoy the views of the majestic peaks of Kantega, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and the Everest. After a few hours, we finally get to the village of Dole which lies at the Dudh Koshi valley.
Today, we take a trail towards Machermo. Lying just beneath Ngozumpa glacier, the longest icy mass in the Himalayas, Machermo is a rather small town which lies at the height of 4,470m. We spend the night at Machermo itself.
Today, we get a day closer to the highlight of our trip. Gokyo lies at an amazing altitude of 4,800m. This little town on the base of Gokyo Ri is home to several indigenous people. Before getting to Gokyo, we walk along 3 lakes namely Longpongo, Raboche Tsho and Dudh Pokhari. Considering its height, it is definitely one of the most amazing spots for human settlement on the planet. We spend the night at the amazing town of Gokyo
As we get to the top, the aerial view of the Himalayas cradling the Gokyo Lake is absolutely eye-popping. We have yet 2 more lakes to encounter and explore. The panoramic views of the Himalayas will leave you in awe. Also get a chance to view the largest glacier in the world, Ngazumpa glacier. We hike back down to Gokyo, and call it a day.
Today, we retrace our steps back to the small village of Dole. Walk past suspension bridges, hamlets, and bushy yaks. Enjoy the surrounding views of the Himalayas for the last couple of days.
We head back to where it all started, Namche Bazaar. Go to a rendezvous and explore what you couldn’t at the narrow alleys and cozy bars of the bustling Namche Bazaar.
Today is the last day of the trek and let's make it a memorable one. Walk down the narrow and steep trails to Lukla, enjoy your final glimpses of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the fresh crisp air for one last time.
Time has come to bid farewell to the Himalayas with a short 25-minute flight. Enjoy the aerial views of the Himalayas during your mountain flight. Spend your evening exploring the streets of Thamel and add some zest to your worn out selves.
A wakeup call will ring in the final hours of your trip. It's time to close your chapter of adventures in Nepal. Board your flight and backpedal home with a heart and soul full of memories.
