Trek Overview
The Gokyo Lakes trek offers a stunning alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route. Visit the pristine turquoise Gokyo Lakes, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Himalayas — with panoramic views of four 8,000m peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This trek combines natural beauty with fewer crowds.
Highlights
- Turquoise Gokyo Lakes – sacred high-altitude lakes
- Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for views of four 8,000m peaks
- Cross the spectacular Ngozumpa Glacier
- Fewer crowds than the Everest Base Camp route
- Stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
- Authentic Sherpa village experience
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A carefully designed itinerary with proper acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
Welcome and transfer to hotel. Trip briefing.
Scenic flight to Lukla and begin trek along the Dudh Kosi River.
Cross suspension bridges and ascend to the Sherpa capital.
Explore Namche, visit the museum, and enjoy mountain views.
Trek north through rhododendron forests towards the Gokyo Valley.
Continue up the valley with views of Cho Oyu and Kantega.
Arrive at the stunning First and Second Gokyo Lakes. Settle at Gokyo village.
Pre-dawn climb of Gokyo Ri for sunrise panorama. Explore the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Lakes.
Begin descent back through the valley.
Return to Namche for last-minute shopping and rest.
Final trekking day. Farewell dinner with the crew.
Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Free time.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Airport transfers
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu
- Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- All meals during trek
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service
- Sagarmatha National Park permit and TIMS
- First aid kit and oximeter
Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch/dinner)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters
Cost & Dates
Trip Cost
- Price based on 2+ person group
- Group discounts available for 4+ trekkers
- Solo traveler supplement may apply
- Custom itineraries available on request
Best Dates
Best Season
Spring (Apr-May), Autumn (Oct-Nov)
Duration
12 Days
Start/End Point
Kathmandu / Lukla
Note: We run trips year-round on custom dates. Contact us to plan your preferred departure date.
Packing List
Here's what we recommend you bring for this trek. Items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu if needed.
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece jacket or down sweater
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Gloves (liner + waterproof outer)
- Warm socks (4-5 pairs)
- Underwear (5-6)
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Equipment
- Backpack (30-40L daypack)
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
- Trekking poles (pair)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2x 1L)
- Water purification tablets
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank
- Dry bags for waterproofing
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notebook and pen
Frequently Asked Questions
Gokyo Lakes offers equally stunning views with fewer trekkers. The viewpoint from Gokyo Ri is considered by many to be even better than Kala Patthar, with views of four 8,000m peaks and the beautiful turquoise lakes below.
Yes! The Gokyo-EBC trek via Cho La Pass is a popular 16-18 day option that combines both destinations. Ask us about the extended itinerary.
Guest Reviews
What our trekkers say about their experience
Erik Nilsen
Denmark · November 2024
The turquoise Gokyo Lakes are absolutely stunning. Climbing Gokyo Ri for sunrise views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Rachel Adams
United Kingdom · October 2023
A fantastic alternative to the classic EBC trek. Less crowded, equally beautiful, and the lakes add a unique dimension. The Ngozumpa Glacier was impressive.
Hiroshi Yamamoto
Japan · April 2024
Beautiful trek with amazing views. The color of the lakes changes throughout the day. Our guide was very experienced and helped us acclimatize properly.