Gokyo Lakes Trek
Duration14 Days
CategoryIconic's Trek
GuideLed by Rajendra PudashainiSeasonspring · autumnHighlights
- Unobstructed views of four 8,000m+ peaks from Gokyo Ri
- The sacred Gokyo Lakes, with crystal-clear turquoise waters
- The Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal
- Immersion in Sherpa culture and traditional villages
- Namche Bazaar, the lively capital of the Khumbu region
- Crossing Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Himalayan wildlife: possible sightings of Himalayan thar and red panda
Overview
Embark on an exceptional journey through the heart of the Khumbu valley to discover the sacred Gokyo Lakes, turquoise jewels nestled among the mountains. This trek offers a less crowded alternative to the famous Everest Base Camp, while still delivering spectacular panoramas of the world's highest peaks: Everest (8,849m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m) and Cho Oyu (8,188m). You'll cross authentic Sherpa villages, follow the Ngozumpa Glacier — the largest glacier in Nepal — and climb Gokyo Ri for one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the Himalayas.
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 01 : Tribhuvan International Airport - Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Kathmandu's international airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the tourist heart of the capital. Enjoy your first contact with Kathmandu, a city blending ancient traditions and modernity. The rest of the day is free to rest or explore Thamel's lively streets, artisan shops, restaurants and colorful cafés.
Day 01 : Tribhuvan International Airport - Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Kathmandu's international airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the tourist heart of the capital. Enjoy your first contact with Kathmandu, a city blending ancient traditions and modernity. The rest of the day is free to rest or explore Thamel's lively streets, artisan shops, restaurants and colorful cafés.
Day 02 : Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding
Today features a spectacular 35-minute flight to Lukla, one of the most impressive landing strips in the world. Aerial views of the snow-capped mountains are breathtaking. Once in Lukla, you'll meet your porter team and begin trekking, gradually descending toward Phakding along the Dudh Koshi river. The trail crosses picturesque Sherpa villages, pine and rhododendron forests, and your first suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags.
Day 02 : Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding
Today features a spectacular 35-minute flight to Lukla, one of the most impressive landing strips in the world. Aerial views of the snow-capped mountains are breathtaking. Once in Lukla, you'll meet your porter team and begin trekking, gradually descending toward Phakding along the Dudh Koshi river. The trail crosses picturesque Sherpa villages, pine and rhododendron forests, and your first suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags.
Day 03 : Phakding - Namche Bazaar
Today you officially enter Sagarmatha National Park after passing the Monjo checkpoint. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi river, crossing several spectacular suspension bridges. After crossing the famous Hillary Bridge, a steep and sustained climb awaits to reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling capital of the Khumbu region. This amphitheater-shaped town offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and a vibrant trading-post atmosphere.
Day 03 : Phakding - Namche Bazaar
Today you officially enter Sagarmatha National Park after passing the Monjo checkpoint. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi river, crossing several spectacular suspension bridges. After crossing the famous Hillary Bridge, a steep and sustained climb awaits to reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling capital of the Khumbu region. This amphitheater-shaped town offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and a vibrant trading-post atmosphere.
Day 04 : Namche Bazaar - Acclimatization Day
This acclimatization day is essential to let your body adjust to altitude. We recommend a morning hike to Khumjung village or the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), offering spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam and Lhotse. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about this mountain people's fascinating history, or explore Namche's Saturday market. In the afternoon, wander through Namche's streets, browse trekking gear shops, and enjoy a coffee with mountain views.
Day 04 : Namche Bazaar - Acclimatization Day
This acclimatization day is essential to let your body adjust to altitude. We recommend a morning hike to Khumjung village or the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), offering spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam and Lhotse. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about this mountain people's fascinating history, or explore Namche's Saturday market. In the afternoon, wander through Namche's streets, browse trekking gear shops, and enjoy a coffee with mountain views.
Day 05 : Namche Bazaar - Dole
Today you leave the main Everest trail to take the less-traveled path toward the Gokyo valley. The trail climbs steadily through rhododendron and juniper forests, offering magnificent views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku. You'll cross the small village of Mong before reaching Phortse Tenga, then climb through dense forest to the hamlet of Dole. Vegetation gradually becomes more alpine as you gain altitude, and the air grows cooler and clearer.
Day 05 : Namche Bazaar - Dole
Today you leave the main Everest trail to take the less-traveled path toward the Gokyo valley. The trail climbs steadily through rhododendron and juniper forests, offering magnificent views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku. You'll cross the small village of Mong before reaching Phortse Tenga, then climb through dense forest to the hamlet of Dole. Vegetation gradually becomes more alpine as you gain altitude, and the air grows cooler and clearer.
Interactive Map
Trek Route
What's Included
Included
- Airport-hotel-airport transfers in Kathmandu
- 3 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star hotel, breakfast included)
- Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flights
- 10 nights in lodges during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Experienced and certified English-speaking guide
- 1 porter per 2 travelers (10kg max per person)
- Sagarmatha National Park permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit
- Insurance and equipment for staff
- Trekking duffel bag
- Trekking map
- 24/7 travel consultant assistance
Not Included
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Drinks (mineral water, sodas, alcohol)
- Hot showers and battery charging in lodges
- Travel and repatriation insurance
- Nepal visa
- Tips for the crew
- Personal expenses
✓ Free cancellation up to 30 days before departure
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