Gokyo Lakes Trek
Description
The Gokyo Lakes trek is renowned for its vibrant turquoise lakes and views of the Everest region’s highest peaks, including Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. The trail ascends to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), a viewpoint that offers one of the best panoramas in Nepal. Along the way, trekkers pass glacial lakes and cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal's largest glacier.
Gallery for Gokyo Lakes Trek
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Trek Itinerary for Gokyo Lakes Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593 ft)
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Transfer to your hotel, followed by a trek briefing and preparation.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383 ft), Trek to Phakding (2,610m / 8,562 ft)
Early morning scenic flight to Lukla (approx. 30 minutes).
Begin the trek with a gentle descent towards Phakding, passing rivers and traditional villages.
Trekking time: 3-4 hours.
Overnight stay in Phakding.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286 ft)
Trek along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges.
Enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb to Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town with shops and cafes.
Trekking time: 6-7 hours.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Acclimatization day to adjust to the altitude.
Optional hikes to nearby villages like Khumjung or to the Everest View Hotel for a view of Everest and Ama Dablam.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,200m / 13,779 ft)
Follow the trail through rhododendron and juniper forests, with stunning views of mountains.
Pass through villages like Kyangjuma and climb steadily to reach Dole.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Overnight stay in Dole.
Day 6: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470m / 14,665 ft)
Continue through forests, crossing ridges and valleys with impressive mountain vistas.
Reach Machhermo, a small village, where you can rest and acclimatize.
Trekking time: 4-5 hours.
Overnight stay in Machhermo.
Day 7: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m / 15,715 ft)
Gradual ascent through open valleys with views of Cho Oyu.
Pass the first two Gokyo Lakes, then reach the third lake, where the village of Gokyo is located.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Day 8: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575 ft) and Return to Gokyo
Early morning hike up Gokyo Ri for a breathtaking sunrise view over Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Descend back to Gokyo village for rest and exploration.
Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Day 9: Explore Fifth Lake (optional) or Rest Day in Gokyo
Optional day hike to the Fifth Lake for a closer view of Cho Oyu and the Northern side of Everest.
Alternatively, relax and enjoy the serene environment around Gokyo Lakes.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Day 10: Trek from Gokyo to Dole
Begin the descent back towards Dole, retracing the scenic route.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Overnight stay in Dole.
Day 11: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
Continue descending through forests and villages with great views of the surrounding landscape.
Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Final day of trekking back to Lukla.
Trekking time: 6-8 hours.
Overnight stay in Lukla.
Day 13: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
Transfer to hotel, rest, and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for departure.