Gokyo Lake Trek
Trek Description
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a scenic adventure in the Everest region, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The trek follows an alternative route to Everest Base Camp, leading to the pristine azure lakes of Gokyo and the breathtaking Gokyo Ri viewpoint. Trekkers pass through Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to glacial moraines. This trek is perfect for those seeking a less crowded yet equally rewarding Himalayan experience.
Destination
Gokyo Lake, Everest Region
Duration
13-14 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate-Difficult
Start/ End
Kathmandu-Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Max People
10-12 people
Transportation
Private vehicle, Flight
Activities
Trekking/Tour/Hiking
The Gokyo Lake Trek offers a mesmerizing experience through high-altitude lakes, breathtaking mountain views, and immersion in the Sherpa culture. Trekkers will also visit the famous Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of the Everest region.
Gokyo Lake Trek Facts
| Title | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Name | Gokyo Lake Trek |
| Travel Budget | $1,200 - $1,800 per person |
| Standard Budget | $1,400 per person |
| Difficulty | Moderate-Difficult |
| Best Time | Spring(March-May) and Autumn(September-November) |
| Permits | Sagarmatha National Park Permit & Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit |
| Accommodation | Tea Houses, Lodges & Camping |
| Best ViewPoints | Gokyo Ri, Fifth Gokyo Lake, Ngozumpa Glacier, Renjo La Pass |
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Return to the hotel for trekking gear preparation.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) and Trek to Phakding (2600m)
- Early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (approx. 35 minutes).
- Start your trek to Phakding (approx. 3-4 hours).
- Overnight stay in Phakding.
Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3500m)- 6 hours
- Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (6 hours, approximately 11 km).
- Cross suspension bridges and pass through villages like Jorsale.
- Arrive in Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital.
- Overnight in Forest Camp.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
- Take a short hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
- Explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Museum, and take it easy to adjust to the altitude.
- Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga
- Trek from Namche to Phortse Thanga (5-6 hours).
- Enjoy the views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as you walk through rhododendron forests.
- Overnight in Phortse Thanga.
Day 7: Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machermo
- Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machermo (5-6 hours).
- The trail gradually ascends through scenic villages and pastures.
- Overnight stay in Machermo.
Day 8: Trek from Machermo to Gokyo Lakes
- Trek from Machermo to Gokyo Lakes (5-6 hours).
- Arrive at the Gokyo Lake area, enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise lakes.
- Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Day 9: Explore Gokyo Lakes
- Take a day to explore Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding area.
- Hike to Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
- Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Day 10: Trek from Gokyo Lake to Dole
- Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4-5 hours).
- The trail descends back into the valley through alpine meadows.
- Overnight stay in Dole.
Day 11: Trek from Dole to Khumjung
- Trek from Dole to Khumjung (6-7 hours).
- Visit the famous Hillary School and the monastery in Khumjung.
- Overnight stay in Khumjung.
Day 12: Trek from Khumjung to Phakding
- Trek from Khumjung to Phakding (6-7 hours).
- Retrace your steps through the lush valleys and scenic landscapes.
- Overnight stay in Phakding.
Day 13: Trek from Phakding to Lukla
- Trek from Phakding to Lukla (3-4 hours).
- Enjoy the last leg of the trek and reflect on the journey.
- Overnight stay in Lukla.
Day 14: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
- Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
- Transfer to the hotel in Kathmandu.
- Relax and explore any last-minute sightseeing in the city.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 15: Departure
- Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time in Kathmandu.
- Transfer to the airport for your departure.
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
- Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee) .
- Free Trekking map.
- An experienced Government licensed holder guide.
- Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
- Ground transportation.
- All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits.
- Unforeseen delay and emergency expenses.
- Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue
- Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks
- All kind of Personal Expenses
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
- Tips, gifts, souvenirs
- Helicopter return from Base Camp.
- Private room & meals.
- Extra food/snacks.
Why Choose Gokyo Lake Trek?
- Stunning Views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Cho Oyu from Gokyo Ri
Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the world’s tallest peaks from Gokyo Ri, a less crowded yet equally spectacular alternative to the Everest Base Camp viewpoint. - Less Crowded Alternative to Everest Base Camp
Unlike the Everest Base Camp route, the Gokyo Lake Trek offers a peaceful trail with fewer trekkers, allowing for a more serene and immersive mountain experience. - Pristine Azure Glacial Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier
Explore the mesmerizing Gokyo Lakes, Nepal’s highest freshwater lake system, and walk along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas. - Immersive Sherpa Culture & Monasteries
Pass through traditional Sherpa villages, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the warm hospitality and rich Buddhist traditions of the Khumbu region.
Best Time For Gokyo Lake Trek
- Spring time offers clear skies, pleasant weather, and flowering rhododendron forests, making it one of the best times of year for trekking.
- Autumn is considered the peak season for trekking. It offers stable weather, stunning mountain views, and comfortable temperatures for hiking.
- Trekking in winter can be challenging due to cold temperatures and snow, making it unsuitable for those who are inexperienced at high altitudes.
- During the monsoon season, trekking becomes even more difficult due to heavy rainfall and landslides. These conditions not only reduce visibility but also make paths slippery and dangerous.
Cost and Planning Facts for Gokyo Lake Trek
- Budget ($1,200 – $1,800 per person): The cost varies based on the season, group size, and luxury add-ons. It generally includes domestic flights (Kathmandu to Lukla), trekking permits, meals, and accommodations.
- Accommodation: Simple tea houses with basic facilities (shared rooms, common bathrooms, and limited heating).
- Food/Meals: Includes traditional Nepali meals like Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and some Western options, though choices are limited at higher altitudes.
- Transportation: A one-way flight ticket costs approximately $100 to $106. Bus tickets are priced between $10 to $20. Renting a jeep for transportation can cost anywhere from $120 to $150.
- Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide costs between $28 to $35 per day. The cost of hiring a porter ranges from $20 to $25 per day.
- Permits: The permits for the Gokyo Lake Trek cost around $50-$60 total, covering the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, required for trekking in the Everest region.
Packing Tips for Gokyo Lake Trek
- Head
- Warm hat & cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Headlight.
- Face Mask or Balaclava
- Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Hiking boots
- Warm Hiking socks
- Gaiters
- Body
- Base Layers
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal Gloves
- Trekking Trousers and Shorts
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Fleece Jacket
- Thermal Shirts and Pants
- Essentials/ Equipments
- Sleeping bag
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles & Raincoat
- Water Bottles and Hydration Bladder
- High-energy snacks
- Maps & Compass/GPS
Gokyo Lake Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a breathtaking alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek, offering mesmerizing views of azure lakes and towering Himalayan peaks. This trek is perfect for adventure seekers looking for high-altitude trekking with fewer crowds. Experience the hospitality of the Sherpa people and the tranquility of the Himalayas with Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition.
Gallery Section
FAQ's
1. Do I need prior trekking experience for Gokyo Lake Trek?
No, but good physical fitness is required due to high altitude and long trekking hours.
2. Are there ATM facilities on the trek?
ATMs are only available in Namche Bazaar, so it’s best to withdraw enough cash in Kathmandu to cover your trek expenses.
3. What is the Lukla flight cancellation policy?
Flights depend on weather conditions; delays are common. It is recommended to have at least one or two extra buffer days in Kathmandu.
4. How difficult is Gokyo Lake Trek?
The Gokyo Lake Trek is moderate to challenging due to high altitudes, steep terrain, long days, and the need for proper acclimatization.
Want to Trek Gokyo Lake with Mardi Himal Treks & Expedition?
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