Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri trek offers every adventure lover a great chance to explore the best of nature, culture, and adventure around the popular Everest region. During our Gokyo Lake Gokyo Ri trek, we make our way through Gokyo valley. Explore turquoise lakes with an awesome glacier, and adore the surrounding Himalayan vistas. Enjoy the view of Ngozumpa Glacier-the longest glacier in the Nepalese Himalaya, and enchanting lakes in the complex of the Gokyo valley. Also, explore the surrounding lakes such as the third, fourth, and fifth Gokyo Lakes. Get views of snow-capped peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, Amadablam, Khumbila, Kwande, Pumori, and Nuptse, etc., and enchanting Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo valley from the summit of Gokyo Ri.
The Gokyo Lake Gokyo Ri trek begins as you arrive at the culturally affluent capital city of Kathmandu and take a short scenic mountain flight towards the Lukla airstrip the next morning. Initially, we meet our porter crew at Lukla and begin our trekking activity following the river banks of Dudh Koshi River along a forested walk at Phakding. In this way, we arrive at the popular Sherpa village and marketplace of Namche Bazaar where we stay for two nights so that our body acclimatizes properly to the alpine surroundings. Further, following an ancient trading route to Tibet, whirling prayer wheels, and walking through juniper forests enjoying a glimpse of the Himalayas, we arrive at Machhermu via Dole before entering Gokyo valley. We explore the beautiful Gokyo valley and ascend Gokyo Ri and trek back to Dole. From there, back to Namche and Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu.
Go for Gokyo Lake Gokyo Ri Trek with Destination Himalaya Treks & Expeditions for professional travel and trekking arrangements. It is recommended during the best season of autumn and spring. This trekking is quite challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness with a positive attitude towards walking and hiking at an altitude. Contact us for booking and further information.
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,338 m/4,390 ft.)
Day 02: Fly to Lukla (2,800 m/9,184 ft.), trek to Phakding (2,652 m/8,700 ft.)
Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440 m/11,283 ft.)
Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche bazaar
Day 05: Namche to Dole (4,038m/13,248 ft.)
Day 06: Trek to Machhermu (4,470 m/ 14,663 ft.)
Day 07: Machhermu to Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft.)
Day 08: Explore Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Valley
Day 09: Hike Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17,570 ft.) and trek back to Dole
Day 10: Dole to Namche Bazaar
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International airport, the representative of Destination Himalaya treks gives you warm welcome in the adventurous Himalayan country Nepal. Transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.
The views are amazing on this short yet enthralling flight. From the Tenzing-Hillary airport in Lukla, we shall start our trekking expedition to the village of Phakding after getting introduced to the crew members who shall join us from Lukla. Along the mighty and torrential Dudh Koshi river we shall ascend through the forests and wildlife diversity, the prayer wheels and flags, and several suspension bridges along the way before we reach Phakding. Overnight stay.
We continue our uphill trek along the Dudh Koshi River for the Sherpa hub of Namche Bazaar. The trail starts with an ascent and quickly changes to descend as well as the teahouses start to be fewer in number. In an up-and-down trail, we reach the Monjo village which is almost in the middle of today’s trekking. Little ahead is the gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park where the entry permit is to be taken. The national park office offers valuable information about the flora, fauna, and villages of the region. Descending past the teahouses we pass Jorsale from where the trail further leads us through either the less taken path through the pine forest or the other route along the mild climb beside the river. Crossing some suspension bridges we reach the Sherpa hub of Namche Bazaar after the forest checkpoint and past the Everest Viewpoint near Larja Dobhan. Overnight stay.
Today is an acclimatization day. The altitude of Namche Bazaar (3440m) is one of the most popular and ideal places for getting accustomed to the higher altitude ahead. The daytime hiking and exploration of the nearby village of Khumjung can be a good option. This village has the Khunde Hillary Hospital and Hillary School built by Sir Edmund Hillary. A monastery with the skull of Yeti can give a mystic feeling to many visitors to Khumjung. Another highlight is the hike to the Hotel Everest View, the hotel at the highest altitude in the world, for a majestic view of the mightiest Everest. Traditionally a trading hub with locals exchanging yak cheese and butter for agricultural products, Namche hosts tourists and other visitors at present. Overnight stay.
We trek on an easy trail for the first section and then a gradual uphill walk for hours till Phortse Tenga. Continue walking enjoying the Ama Dablam in the backdrop and arrive at Dole. Overnight stay.
Head towards Machhermu and get a clear sight of Cho Oyu Mountain on the way to the trail. Pass a few settlements to arrive at Machhermu. Overnight stay.
You appreciate the picturesque scenery while trekking to Gokyo. Enjoy the view of Ngozumpa Glacier-the longest glacier in the Nepalese Himalaya, and enchanting lakes in the complex of the Gokyo valley. Overnight stay.
We explore the beautiful Gokyo Valley. We view the largest Ngozumpa Glacier and the glacial moraine formed due to the Ngozumpa glacier. Exploring the other locations in the surroundings such as the third, fourth, and fifth Gokyo Lakes. Overnight stay.
We hike to Gokyo Ri. We pass through the huge Ngozumpa glacier admiring the surrounding 19 Gokyo Lakes. It takes 3 hours to ascend Gokyo Ri. Upon reaching the summit, get fascinated with the superb views of snow-capped peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Khumbila, Kwande, Pumori, and Nuptse, etc. Also, enjoy the stunning views of Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo valley, and the huge Ngozumpa glacier. Descend to Gokyo for lunch. Continue to trek further and arrive at Dole. Overnight stay.
We walk passing through the beautiful Khumjung village and traverse a bridge over Bhote Khola. We continue walking and ascend to reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay.
This section marks the last section of the strenuous trekking. We descend the trail slowly and cautiously due to the steep path and the shaky leg owing to the long trekking we earlier had. The magic of nature unfolds through the colorful rhododendron and pine forests, plains, and the amazing view of the snow-capped mountains that seem to be overlooking the trekking route. Sherpa villages, Buddhist culture reflected through the prayer flags, prayer stones, and Gompas, and lush vegetation make the trekking an enriching one. We stretch ourselves in this Sherpa town and recall the experiences gained during the strenuous yet amazing trekking. Overnight stay.
Our trekking comes to an end today. We fly back to Kathmandu and you are transferred to the hotel of your stay before you depart to your respective destinations. Spend the day taking a rest. Or do some shopping or explore the streets of Kathmandu. You may want to buy some souvenirs for your near and dear ones back in your native place. Overnight in a hotel.
Accommodation
Accommodation in the Himalayas is mostly teahouses or lodges operated by locals. They are comfortable and simple with basic facilities. Extra facilities like hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging of electronic devices, and laundries are available by paying additional charges. Room sharing is common during the peak seasons and at high altitudes. So, prepared for it. Washrooms are mostly outside the teahouse or lodge.
Meals
We provide only breakfast in Kathmandu and 3 meals (breakfast, lunch. dinner) a day are provided during the entire trek. Meals are provided from the teahouses or lodges which is simple but organic and healthy. Nepali Dal Bhat is a chief dish with fresh green vegetable curry. Besides, noodles, soup, bread, roti, Sherpa stew, and hot drinks are also available. You can try continental cuisine at Namche at your own expense.
Drinking Water
Drinking water in the Himalayas is pure and fresh. One can directly drink the natural freshwater stream from the Himalayas. Or fill up the boiled water in a water bottle in the teahouses paying an extra charge. Always carry water purifying solutions for proper water treatment and to be safe. Drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
Internet connectivity & Mobile Network
Everest Link’s Wi-Fi card provides internet all over the Everest region. So, internet connectivity is easily available and stable in the lower regions. Mobile Network is also stable in the lower regions. You can also purchase a Sim and use mobile data from it. In higher altitudes, internet connectivity and mobile network are difficult to find.
Gokyo Lake Trek Starting Point
Lukla is the starting point for any trekking or climbing in the Everest region. From Lukla, pass through the villages of Phakding, Namche, Dole, and Machhermu to arrive at Gokyo Valley.
"Lukla-Phakding-Namche-Dole-Machhermu-Gokyo Valley-Gokyo Ri-Dole-Namche-Lukla"
Required Permits
Permits are mandatory in the Himalayas of Nepal. Our required permits are
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Entrance Permit, and Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SNP).
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is quintessential in the Himalayas. It must cover all emergency evacuation, medical extremities, luggage loss/theft, flight cancellations, altitude above 4000m, etc. Thus, arrange travel insurance from a reputed agency as it is compulsory.
Safety and our guides
We assure you 100% when it comes to safety. Our client’s safety is our main concern. Our guides are certified and well-trained with years of expertise in this field. They are technically competent and have excelled in safety performance. They always carry essential safety equipment, gear, and first-aid kits. For the safety of our trekkers, the itinerary is properly scheduled and acclimatization rest days are properly set up to adjust to the high altitude and prevent altitude sickness. If any queries concerning safety, feel free to share them with our guides. We are always there for your services.
Best time for Gokyo Lake Trek
The best time to trek is the peak season for safety and to enjoy the spectacular and clear views. Spring and Autumn seasons are the best time followed by the summer season. Winter season is risky and only a few adventurous trekkers dare to climb. We recommend you plan carefully if you want to trek during the off-season.
Gokyo Lake Trek Difficulty
Gokyo Lake Trek is moderately difficult due to the long trek route, and high elevations, but still, it is adventurous. With the proper assistance and guidance of experts, it is achievable. When it comes to Gokyo Lake Trek, experience in trekking at high altitudes is a bonus. Besides this, trekkers must be in good health, and physically, & mentally fit as it is physically demanding. So, we recommend you participate in exercises, day hikes, and physical training months before starting the trek. Also, take necessary health tests before trekking to high altitudes. You can completely trust our assistance and guidelines throughout the trekking journey.
Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is common in mountains above the altitude of 3000m. The trek starts from Lukla (2866m) and the altitude rises to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) during the trek. Namche is the acclimatization resting place to adjust to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Primary: Headache, nausea, gasping, appetite & sleep loss, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting
Extreme: primary symptoms and hallucinations & unconsciousness
Preventive Guidelines
Shoes: Trekking shoes, base camp shoes, Rubber sandals
Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Down Jacket, Base Layers, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks
Accessories: Sunglasses, Ski Goggles, Hats/Caps, Beanie, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Head Lamp, Pocket Knife, Personal Hygiene &Toiletries
Sleeping: Mattress, Warm Sleeping bags
Travel Bag: Duffel bag, a day pack, pack cover
Medicine Kit: Wash Kit, First-Aid Kit, Blister Repair Kit, Medicines for preventing Altitude sickness, Prescribed Medicines (Personal use)
Extras: Heat/Leak proof water bottles, Water Purifying solution (Iodine based), Water filters, Insulated cup/flask, Map, Binoculars, Travel Documents, Sewing kit, Cash, Extra batteries, Power bank, Pen, Diary, Book, Reusable (spoon, cup, plate), Reusable bags, Large Waterproof Disposable Bags, Snacks (Choco-bars, Mints, Nuts, Granola Bars)
Note: Customize and rent the above list as a necessity.