Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek

Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek

Enjoy the Breathtaking Himalayan Landscape and Mountain Lake

Country
Country: Nepal
Trip Difficulty
Trip Difficulty: Challenging
Activities
Activities: Trekking / Hiking
Accommodation
Accommodation: Included
Meals
Meals: Included
Max. Elevation
Max. Elevation: 5,357m.
Group Size
Group Size: Free size
Best Season
Best Season: March to May / September to November

Highlight

  • Remain awe-struck by the views of the mountains, hills, and whatever there is to observe.
  • Cross the sounding rivers and green vegetation at notable times.
  • Touch down the pristine and sapphire blue Gokyo Lakes.
  • Spend a close time with the Sherpas of the region who have so much to show.
  • Hike up to the significant point of the trek, Gokyo Ri(5,357m), and get lost in the view from there.
  • Get to explore the Gokyo Region thoroughly.
  • Spend a complete rest day in Namche Bazaar, a beautiful famous town in the region.
  • Enter the Gokyo Valley via rural and traditional Sherpa settlements like Phorse, Machhermo.
  • Trek through the less known and unfrequented trails of the Khumbu Region.
  • Kick off the venture from Kathmandu by a scenic flight to Lukla.

Overview

All too often, people only see the Everest Region as the home of Everest Base Camp Trek. That is just not right! If you turn your sights a little away, there are several fantastic trekking destinations as well. Gokyo-Ri & Gokyo Lake Trek, an adventure in the Everest Region.

As it is pretty clear from the title, and you might also have guessed already, the trek is about the two beautiful happenings of the Everest Region: Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri. Firstly, Gokyo Ri, a sublime mountain pass with an altitude of 5,357m, is a summit in the picturesque Gokyo Valley from where you can view four eight-thousanders: Mt Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse and numerous other peaks as well.

Indeed, it is a majestic place for mountain lovers. Likewise, there is something more in this trek that can unmistakably entice lake lovers. We mean the six pristine glacier lakes that come along during the tour, better known as Gokyo Lakes. The bluish-colored lakes have the power to awe-struck any visitors. Nevertheless, Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trekking are not only about the lakes and the past.

An excellent alternative to Everest Base Camp Trek, this trek also bestows insight into Sherpa culture and lifestyle, views of striking landscapes and vast terrains of the Khumbu Region, and more. You can take this journey as a trek to the unseen and less frequented but breathtaking side of the Everest Region.

In total, it is a 14-day long itinerary that starts from Kathmandu and ends up in the same. But what happens in between is something you have never experienced and lived. Without a doubt, Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trek are a whole lot of adventure.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and Drive to your Hotel (1400m)
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Arrangement Day
Day 3: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport and Trek to Phakding (2651m- 4hours)
Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430m- 6hours)
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar
Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Phortse (3810m- 6hours)
Day 7: Trek from Phorse to Machhermo (4470m- 6hours)
Day 8: Trek from Machharmo to Gokyo (4800m- 6hours)
Day 9: Explore Gokyo Valley, Climb Gokyo Ri, and Trek around the Gokyo Lakes (5357m- 6hours)
Day 10: Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4032m- 6hours)
Day 11: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3430m- 5hours)
Day 12: Trek to Lukla (2860m- 7hours)
Day 13: Morning flight back to Kathmandu (1400m- 45mins)
Day 14: Final departure from Tribhuvan International Airport

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu and Drive to your Hotel (1400m)

Transportation: airport pickup
Accommodation: 3-star standard hotel
Meal: welcome dinner
Max. Altitude: 1400m
This 14-day-long journey of yours with us will start as you land safely at the Tribhuvan International Airport. After your landing, our team from Sabbatical Explore Nepal will receive you to give a ride to your hotel. You will have a much-needed rest and refreshments at the hotel after an exhausting flight. Later in the evening, if you would like to explore a bit of the city, you can do that with the team. There are some excellent places for evening hangouts around Kathmandu. Also, you will attend a welcome dinner hosted by the Sabbatical Team. You will get to know the entire team for the expedition along with having a sweet dinner. Overnight will be back in the hotel.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Arrangement Day

Accommodation: 3-star standard hotel
The second day of the trip is about the sightseeing of the city and necessary trek arrangements. As for the sightseeing, our city guide and his team will take you to the cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu like Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and other places. You’ll get to know the unique Nepalese architecture, culture, and traditions on the visit.   While you enjoy the tour, our team will verify your packing list for the trek. They will also finalize all of the trek permits required for the Gokyo Ri Trek. In case you are missing any gear or clothing, the team will arrange that for you.  The second day will get done as you reach back to the hotel. Following, you will find a way back to the room for rest.

Day 3: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport and Trek to Phakding (2651m- 4hours)

Flight Hours40 minutes
Trek Duration4 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Phakding
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 2651m
So the real adventure starts on the third day as we leave the city for Lukla. We will join a splendid morning flight to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport. It is lovely for the views you get to see, the bird’s eye view of the complete Himalayas, and Nepal’s landscape. Soon, we will land at Lukla after some 40 minutes of take-off. We will be good to start the trek very soon as we are at the starting point of the trek already. But before that, we will have breakfast in Lukla and a bit of exploration of the place. Then we will join the path that goes down from Lukla to the riverbeds of the Dudh Koshi River. Moving along the bank and through the lush woods, and suspension bridges a couple of times, we shall reach Phakding. We will enjoy this walk on the first trekking day of the tour. After getting to Phakding, we will call it a day in one of the teahouses.

Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430m- 6hours)

Trek Duration6 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Namche
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 3430m
Now, we move towards Namche Bazaar after breakfast. It will be a goodbye to Phakding to join the trail that follows the same Dudh Koshi River. Unlike the first trekking day, we will have more uphills and downhills today. The swinging suspension bridges will also not slow down; you have to cross a couple of them today as well. After crossing the Dudh Koshi River several times, we will reach Monjo, where we have to reveal our trekking permits. That is where the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, a protected site of the region, resides. We shall confirm our permits before getting back on the track through the pine trees. A little later, we will step into Jorsalle, a village by the pine forest, for a quick lunch. The trek along the river will keep on going until we find Namche Bazaar. Our last stretch for the day will be down from Tenzing/Hillary Suspension Bridge to Namche over a winding hill. Later, we will have a convenient evening in Namche.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

Accommodation: mountain lodge in Namche Bazaar
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Now it is time to slow down a little bit. We are already above 3,400m of altitude. And we need to acclimate to the elevations nicely to move any higher in the trek. Namche is a perfect place for that. Well, a day in Namche Bazaar is not a bad idea at all. There are a lot of things that we can do in Namche Bazaar, from short hikes to nearby villages to the walk to Everest View Hotel. We can also visit the information center of Sagarmatha National Park. Or you just roam around the alleys of the town. Anything done here is worth some value.   But the best thing to do while in Namche Bazaar is the hike to Khumjung and Khunde, the two traditional Sherpa villages. The visit will provide us with some informative exploration of the village and the people. We will choose one of the options to spend the day in Namche. After the visit, We’ll trace back to Namche for the night.

Day 6: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Phortse (3810m- 6hours)

Trek Duration6 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Phortse
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 3810m
Our time in Namche will come to an end as we have to leave for Phortse. We will begin by climbing up from the Bazaar to join a more flat trail. That is when we will start seeing the majestic peaks: Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and others. After some hours of trekking, we will reach Mong La, a small village located on a hill over the Dudh Koshi River. The trail to Everest Base Camp Trek and Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trek is separate from here. We’ll join the path on the left side to descend towards Phortse and ultimately to Gokyo Valley. Shortly, We will reach the river’s river bed before heading upwards to the Phortse village. Phortse, also known as Phortse Thenga, is a farming village inhabited by the authentic Sherpas. Overnight in the hamlet.

Day 7: Trek from Phorse to Machhermo (4470m- 6hours)

Trek Duration6 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Machhermo
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 4470m
By this time, we will have entered Gokyo Valley already. Yes, but the better things are yet to come. So we will leave Phortse behind to find Machhermo. The route goes through the valley that the Dudh Koshi River sketches. Along the way, you will cross the forest area a couple of times and a few waterfalls too. Following, we will take a midday pause either at Dole or Luza Village before reaching the destination. On a lucky day of ours, we might see Musk Deer, Pheasants, and more. Moreover, peaks like Cho Oyu, Thamserku, and other peaks will remain in the backdrop for our look. This way, we will eventually arrive in Machhermo after hiking for around 6 hours. Overnight in a teahouse of the village.

Day 8: Trek from Machharmo to Gokyo (4800m- 6hours)

Trek Duration6 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Gokyo
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 4800m
After eating breakfast in Mchharmo, we shall now move towards the Gokyo Village. In the hope of seeing the lakes sooner, we will join a steep track from the village at a great pace. Later after the uphill section, the route will go down to the river banks. Soon, Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, will come along today. We will just pass through its terminal moraine. By the way, we will also see the river that originates from the glacier. Having walked a bit from there, the first Gokyo Lake will come over. The lakes will keep on coming as we move further, and we will not know when Gokyo Village will arrive. Reaching Gokyo Village, we will have our mouths opened by the view of the place. The village is just by the third Gokyo Lake, the bluish lake that glitters like a diamond. We will also see Cho Oyu and several other peaks in the backdrop as well. It is such a great evening to spend. Overnight in the Gokyo Village by the lake.

Day 9: Explore Gokyo Valley, Climb Gokyo Ri, and Trek around the Gokyo Lakes (5357m- 6hours)

Trek Duration6 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Gokyo
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 5357m
All of the trek up to now was ultimately for making this day happen; the Gokyo Ri Hike day. There is no better day than this one in the entire Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trekking. We will wake up to the view of the lake. Once we have breakfast, we will leave upwards for Gokyo Ri. It will take around 3 to 4 hours to reach the viewpoint. As we reach the peak, we will witness a breathtaking mountain panorama, including peaks like Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and more. Not only that, but we also can see the Gokyo Lakes from up there. This very moment will tell you the worth of the trek. And you’ll say; Well, it's worth everything. After the viewpoint time, we will descend back to the Gokyo Village to explore the lakes a bit more. We can also spend some quality time with the locals in the village as well. And following an excellent daytime, We’ll rest in the same teahouses of Gokyo.

Day 10: Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4032m- 6hours)

Trek Duration6 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Dole
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 4032m
Now it is time for home returning as we have already explored the Gokyo Valley in every bit. We will bid a shy farewell to Gokyo after breakfast in the village to pass via the lakes and through the same trail to reach Dole. The trail will be more of a descending and easy one this time. After around 5 hours of dropping, we will get to Dole to spend the night.

Day 11: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3430m- 5hours)

Trek Duration5 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Namche
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 3430m
Likewise, we will follow the trail to Namche Bazaar from Dole. The trek will be on the same route and through the same settlements. The mountain views will still be available; do not forget to watch them. This way, we will navigate Namche Bazaar around the evening. The Night’s Rest in Namche.

Day 12: Trek to Lukla (2860m- 7hours)

Trek Duration7 hours
Accommodation: mountain lodge in Lukla
Meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 2860m
Today will be a longer trekking day than the earlier two days. This time, we have to trek up to Lukla from Namche through Phakding. That means no overnight in Phakding, straight in Lukla. We will start the day quite early as we have more to walk today. The trail will go through the same suspension bridges, river edge, and forest area. We’ll recall everything from the other days when we arrive in Lukla. The last overnight in the Everest Region will be at Lukla’s teahouse.

Day 13: Morning flight back to Kathmandu (1400m- 45mins)

Flight Hours45 minutes
Accommodation: 3-star standard hotel
Max. Altitude: 1400m
If everything goes as planned, we will have a take-off from Lukla Airport around the first hours. It will take 45 minutes to reach Kathmandu, and you will have a scenic flight yet again. As we land in Kathmandu, you will get back to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will end up having a rest before meeting the team for the farewell dinner in the evening. And this is how your team will sum up the fantastic Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trekking. Overnight back in the hotel.

Day 14: Final departure from Tribhuvan International Airport

Transportation: drop off at the airport
And, your time with the team in Nepal will come to an end as you prepare for the departure. The team will bid farewell to you by offering you an airport transfer. Have a safe journey back home.

What's Included?

  • Airport Pick up and transfer to the hotel (all)
  • Welcome & farewell dinner
  • 3 nights Room Accommodation with Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • All meals during trek with tea and coffee
  • All ground transfer with Private vehicle
  • English speaking tour guide in Kathmandu
  • Experienced Trekking guide
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight
  • Everest region Trekking guide (Kathmandu- Trekking- Kathmandu)
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight for guide
  • Entrance fees for above mention places
  • Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS)
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit Fees
  • 1 porter (Helper) per two trekkers to carry trekking bag during trek
  • All food, accommodation, salary and Insurance for trekking guide and porter(s)
  • Government Tax & VAT

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal Visa fees
  • Clients personal insurance
  • Any kind of unforeseen expenses
  • Comprehensive Travel/Medical Insurance that covers heli rescue
  • Natural Calamities beyond our control and expenses incurred during rescue services
  • Any bar bills (alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and cold drinks, cigarettes etc)

Extra Info

Best Time to Visit:

March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning Himalayan views. Summer and winter are possible with proper gear.

Permits Required:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. Most trekking agencies arrange these on your behalf.

Accommodation & Food:

Stay in teahouses and lodges along the trail with twin-sharing rooms and meals like Dal Bhat, noodles, momos, and pasta. Wi-Fi and charging are available at some stops.

Altitude Safety:

The trek reaches high altitudes, so acute mountain sickness (AMS) is possible. Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, eat high-carb foods, and acclimatize properly.

Guides & Porters:

Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory. Guides ensure your safety, manage permits, and help in emergencies. Porters carry luggage, making trekking easier. Supporting local guides also promotes eco-friendly tourism and benefits Himalayan communities.

Map

FAQ's

Is it possible to customize this trip?
  • Yes, it is possible.
How difficult is the Gokyo Lake Trek?
  • There is no climbing section while trekking, so you don't need any type of climbing equipment or previous treeking experience, In between the trek, you will walk through the rugged and rocky trail. You will gradually follow the cliff route from lukla to gokyo  Ri, not every time you will walk on the cliff some time the path will be wide and flat. While sescending back it is easy. If your ankle is weak, be careful while backtrakking the route, The Nzogumpa glacier is a little tricky so wisely cross the messy and challenging ground.
When is the best time to trek to Gokyo Lake Trek?
  • The best time to trek to Gokyo Lake Trek is during (March to May) or (September to November).
Is Gokyo Lake Trek suitable for beginners?
  • Yes, with proper preparation. While challenging, beginners with good fitness and a few months of training can complete the trek.
Do I need to book the Gokyo Lake Trek in advance?
  • Yes, it’s highly recommended to book the Gokyo Lake Trek in advance, especially during peak seasons. Advance booking ensures guaranteed flights, accommodation availability, and proper time to arrange permits, guides, and other logistics.
Can I see Mount Everest from Gokyo lake trek?
  • Yes, you can see Mount Everest from the Gokyo Lake Trek.
What permits are required for the Gokyo Lake Trek?
  • You need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, both of which are included in the package and arranged for you.
What kind of accommodation is available during the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake trek?
  • You will stay in Teahouse or Guesthouse. It is recommended to carry your own sleeping bag for extra warmth and comfort.
Is there Wi-Fi or mobile data on Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek?
  • Wi-Fi is available in most villages using Everest Link cards, but the connection can be slow or unreliable. Mobile phone signal is limited and usually weak above Namche.
Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek - 14 Days
Price USD 1785
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