Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking-12 Days

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Everest region of Nepal. It is an alternative trek to the classic Everest Base Camp trek and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, as well as the beautiful Gokyo Lakes.

Here are some key points about the Gokyo Lake Trek:

Route and Duration: The trek usually begins from Lukla, which is accessible by a short flight from Kathmandu. From Lukla, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River valley, passing through several Sherpa villages, such as Namche Bazaar and Khumjung. The trek then ascends to the Gokyo Valley, where you’ll find a series of six glacial lakes. The duration of the trek is typically around 12-14 days, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs of the trekkers.
Scenic Beauty: The Gokyo Lake Trek offers breathtaking natural beauty. Along the trail, you’ll encounter dense forests, suspension bridges, and vibrant rhododendron flowers (in the spring season). The highlight of the trek is reaching Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint situated at an elevation of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet), which offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding peaks.
Gokyo Lakes: The Gokyo Lakes are a chain of high-altitude freshwater lakes, known for their turquoise color. The lakes are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. The largest lake, known as the Dudh Pokhari, is the most prominent and is surrounded by panoramic mountain views. The lakes are a serene and peaceful place, and many trekkers find them to be a highlight of the journey.
Difficulty and Altitude: The Gokyo Lake Trek is considered moderately challenging. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, and the altitude can be demanding, especially as you approach Gokyo Ri. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. It is recommended to take enough rest days and maintain a gradual pace to prevent altitude sickness.
Accommodation and Facilities: The trekking route has teahouses and lodges available for accommodation along the way. These establishments provide basic amenities such as meals, hot showers, and comfortable beds. However, as you gain elevation, the facilities become more basic and limited. It is advisable to carry some cash, as card payment options may be scarce.
Best Time to Trek: The ideal time to undertake the Gokyo Lake Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent visibility. The spring season also showcases beautiful flowers in bloom, while the autumn season offers post-monsoon freshness.

Remember that trekking in the Everest region requires a permit from the Sagarmatha National Park and obtaining the necessary documentation is essential before starting the trek. Hiring a local guide or joining a trekking agency is highly recommended for a safe and organized experience.

Please note that the information provided here is based on general knowledge, and it’s always advisable to check with updated sources and consult experienced trekkers or local authorities for the latest information before planning your trek.

Trip Highlights

Gokyo Lakes: A chain of high-altitude turquoise lakes, revered by both trekkers and locals.
Gokyo Ri: A 5,357m peak that offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Ngozumpa Glacier: The largest glacier in the Himalayas, visible from the Gokyo Valley.
Less Crowded: Compared to the classic Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Lakes route is quieter and offers a more serene trekking experience.
Rich Sherpa Culture: Explore Sherpa villages, monasteries, and unique Buddhist culture along the way.

Trekking Route Overview

The Gokyo Lakes trek takes about 12–14 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs. The trek begins with a flight to Lukla and heads through beautiful valleys, passes through high-altitude lakes, and provides stunning views of Everest and other towering peaks.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m) and trek to Phakding (2,610m)
After a scenic flight to Lukla, the trek starts with a relatively easy 3-4 hour hike down to Phakding, passing small villages and monasteries.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
A challenging ascent up to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa town. The trail includes crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and entering Sagarmatha National Park.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Acclimatization is crucial at this altitude. You can hike to the Everest View Hotel for stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam or explore the Sherpa Museum in Namche.
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,200m)
Leaving the busy Everest Base Camp trail, you’ll ascend to Dole via Mong La, enjoying the quiet alpine scenery and views of snow-capped peaks.
Day 5: Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)
The trail becomes steeper as you ascend to Machhermo, with a gradual climb along the Dudh Koshi River. The village is a popular stop for acclimatization.
Day 6: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)
You will enter the Gokyo Valley and pass the first few Gokyo Lakes before reaching the third and largest, Gokyo Lake. The turquoise waters are a stunning contrast against the rocky landscape.
Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and explore Gokyo Lakes
A challenging early morning climb to Gokyo Ri offers some of the best views in the region. The panorama includes Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier. After descending, you can explore the other lakes in the Gokyo Valley.
Day 8: Gokyo to Dole
After enjoying the beauty of the lakes and mountains, the trek retraces steps down to Dole.
Day 9: Dole to Namche Bazaar
Continue your descent, with a much easier day compared to the ascent. Namche Bazaar welcomes you back with its cozy atmosphere.
Day 10: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Retrace your steps along the familiar route, descending towards Lukla, where you’ll rest before flying back to Kathmandu.
Day 11: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
An early morning flight will return you to the capital, where you can celebrate the completion of the trek.

Best Time to Trek

Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and stable weather, with stunning views of the mountains.
Spring (March–May): Beautiful rhododendron blooms and good visibility.

Difficulty Level

The Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves several days of trekking at high altitudes, with steep ascents and descents. Proper acclimatization is essential, as you will be trekking above 4,000m for several days.

Accommodation & Meals

Tea Houses: Basic lodges that provide essential services like meals, hot showers, and accommodation.
Food: The meals are mostly Nepali (dal bhat), Tibetan (noodle soup), and simple Western dishes like pasta, potatoes, and eggs.

Permits

Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Required for entering the national park.
Local Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: Another local entry fee for the Khumbu region.

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Layering is key. Pack warm base layers, a down jacket, waterproof gear, and gloves.
Footwear: Sturdy, well-worn hiking boots are crucial for this trek.
Trekking Poles: Useful for steep ascents and descents.
Water Purification Tablets: Essential for treating water along the trail.

Altitude Sickness

Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Be sure to hydrate well, ascend gradually, and take rest days as needed. Some trekkers carry Diamox (acetazolamide) to prevent altitude sickness.

Why Choose the Gokyo Lake Trek?

Unique Lakes and Glaciers: The pristine Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier are must-see natural wonders in the Himalayas.
Fewer Crowds: Unlike the busy Everest Base Camp trek, this route offers solitude and peaceful trekking.
Spectacular Views: Gokyo Ri offers panoramic views of four of the world’s tallest peaks, making it one of the best viewpoints in the region.

The Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is a great way to experience the beauty of the Himalayas, discover Sherpa culture, and avoid the crowds while still enjoying the grandeur of the Everest region. With the turquoise Gokyo Lakes as your destination and the mighty Gokyo Ri offering awe-inspiring views, this trek is a fantastic adventure for trekkers of all levels.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 meters/9,186 feet) to Phakding (2,652 meters/8,700 feet)

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, a scenic mountain flight.
Trek to Phakding, a small village along the Dudh Koshi River.
Overnight stay in Phakding.

Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters/11,286 feet)

Trek through beautiful pine forests along the Dudh Koshi River.
Cross suspension bridges and reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park.
Ascend steeply to Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Sherpa town and the gateway to the Everest region.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

Day 3: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization day to adjust to the altitude.
Take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other mountains.
Explore the colorful streets of Namche Bazaar, visit local shops, and interact with the Sherpa people.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga (3,680 meters/12,073 feet)

Trek along the trail with views of Everest and other peaks.
Descend to the Dudh Koshi River and cross another suspension bridge.
Ascend through rhododendron and pine forests to reach Phortse Thanga.
Overnight stay in Phortse Thanga.

Day 5: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo (4,470 meters/14,665 feet)

Continue trekking uphill and pass through villages and yak pastures.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku mountains.
Reach the village of Machhermo, located near the river.
Overnight stay in Machhermo.

Day 6: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,800 meters/15,748 feet)

Ascend along the Dudh Koshi River valley.
Pass through the villages of Pangka and Dole.
Climb steeply to reach the scenic village of Gokyo, situated on the shores of the pristine Gokyo Lakes.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.

Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters/17,575 feet)

Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri, a popular viewpoint for panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and other peaks.
Descend back to Gokyo and spend the rest of the day exploring the Gokyo Lakes.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.

Day 8: Gokyo to Dole (4,038 meters/13,248 feet)

Descend back through Machhermo and Phortse Thanga.
Reach the village of Dole, located amidst beautiful landscapes.
Overnight stay in Dole.

Day 9: Dole to Namche Bazaar

Continue descending through forests and villages.
Reach Namche Bazaar, where you can enjoy some well-deserved rest and celebrate the completion of the trek.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

Day 10: Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Descend further to Lukla, retracing the trail.

Day11:Fly From Lukla To Kathmandu

International and domestic pick up and drop off by private car/Jeep/ Hiace.
2 night hotel accommodation with breakfast (B/B) in Kathmandu
All necessary papers including Everest national park permit and TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
Meals on a full-board basis (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner/ the main course) during the trek in the mountain.
Nature View Trek’s experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide.
All salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance for the guide.
Trekking equipment such as the Sleeping bag, and down jacket on request (optional)
Trekking lodges (Tea House) throughout the trek
Airfare from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu.
Seasonal fresh fruits are desert every evening after dinner.
Appreciation of certificate after the successful trek.
Farewell Dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with traditional music and dance
Oximeter to measure your oxygen and Pulse level during the trek in the mountain.
Compressive first aid box (Guide will carry it throughout the trek).
Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance)
All government, Local taxes/ vat, and official expenses

Nepal entry Visa fees
Lunch and Dinner while in Kathmandu(2 days)
Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
Your Travel Insurance
International Airfare and Airport Tax
Your Travel Insurance
All Drinks.
Personal things like postage, a hot water, internet, and laundry
Tips for guide & porter

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