Nestled in the Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal, Gokyo Valley is a magnificent trekking destination that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The valley is known for its scenic beauty, rich flora and fauna, and stunning views of the majestic Himalayas. The valley is home to many beautiful lakes and the biggest glacier in Nepal, which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
The Gokyo Lake trek is an adventurous journey that begins with a thrilling short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. From Lukla, the trail leads up towards the big settlement of Namche Bazaar, where you can acclimatize and explore the local culture. As you continue on the trail, you will pass through rhododendron and pine forests, waterfalls, and frozen streams. You will also come across several tea shops where you can take a break and relax.
The trail further leads to Dole, a charming village surrounded by beautiful landscapes. From Dole, you will reach Machhermo, a small settlement located on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. The valley that leads west above Machhermo is worth a visit, and can be done in the afternoon. The valley is dominated by the unclimbed Mt. Kyojo Ri, which is a popular destination for mountaineers.
The final trail up to Gokyo Lake goes passing teahouses at Phang and up the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa glacier, which is the largest glacier in Nepal. As you reach Gokyo, you will be mesmerized by the beautiful scenery of the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the stunning views of the Himalayas. The Gokyo Ri, which is the best viewpoint of the trek, offers panoramic views of four of the world’s highest mountains: Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The view from Gokyo Ri is a sight to behold and a moment that will stay with you forever.
Overall, the Gokyo Valley trek is a fantastic experience that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nepal. The trek is moderately challenging and can be completed by anyone with good fitness and a spirit of adventure. The trek offers an opportunity to explore the unique culture and traditions of the Sherpa people and witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,590 ft above sea level), transfer to hotel
Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft) trek to Phakding (2,610 m /8,563 ft), Distance: 8 km / 5 miles, Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m /11,286 ft), Distance: 11 km / 7 miles, Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Day 4: Acclimatization day, Trek to Syangboche and back to Namche Bazaar
Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Phortse (3,810 m/ 12,500 ft), Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles, Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Day 6: Phortse Village to Dole (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles, Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Day 7: Dole to Machhermo (4,470 m / 14,665 ft), Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles, Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Day 8: Machhermo to Gokyo Valley (4,790 m / 15,715 ft), Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles, Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Day 9: Explore Gokyo Valley: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m / 17,575 ft), and hike to fifth lake (6 – 7 hours)
Day 10: Gokyo to Phortse Tenga (3,680 m / 12,073 ft), Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles, Duration: 6 – 7 hours
Day 11: Phortse Tenga to Monju (2,840 m / 9,318 ft), Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles, Duration: 6 – 7 hours
Day 12: Monju to Lukla (2,840 m / 9,318 ft), Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles, Duration: 6 – 7 hours
Day 13: Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,590 ft)
Day 14: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
Day 15: Departure to international airport
Route Map
Gokyo Lake Trek is relatively harder and longer in duration than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is because trekkers will be hiking to the ultimate heights at 5,357 m/17,575 feet . Trekkers do not require technical training or rock climbing and mountaineering skills but you need to be physically fitness to hike 6 to 8 hours daily. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, and hiking are recommended before your journey.
The best months to do the Gokyo Valley Trek is February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. During these months, the weather is generally favorable with clear skies and mild temperatures, making for optimal trekking conditions and stunning mountain views.
Our trekking guides are trained and hold a trekking guide license issued by the Nepalese government. All of our guides are local with a deep understanding of the mountains, culture, health and your safety. All of our guides are skilled, experienced, courteous and helpful. They are proficient in English and will be able to communicate effectively with you throughout the trip.
You can get verity of meals including typical Nepali Dal Bhat (Rice, Curry and lentils), breads, noodles, soups, eggs, toast, potato varieties, pizza, pasta, burger items are common choices in the menu. Breakfast and dinner will be served from tea house or lodge where we stay overnight and lunch will be served on the way to next destination. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included during the trek.
Bottled water, Boiled water or safe drinking water options are available along the trekking route. We do not recommend you drink water from local sources such as taps, wells, and rivers.
You will be accommodated in 3 star level hotel in Kathmandu. During the trek, you will have a private room in guesthouses and lodges. In some cases, during peak season, you need to share a room with others.
Yes, it is necessary to have insurance to join this Gokyo Lake Trek. Your insurance should cover cost of Helicopter rescue and treatment.
Yes, while porters can carry the majority of your belongings, it’s recommended to carry a small day backpack yourself. This backpack can hold essentials such as drinking water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, sunglasses and any other items you may need easy access to during the day hike.
Yes, trekkers should note that the luggage limit for a porter is 20kg, and typically, there is one porter assigned for every two trekkers. It’s advisable to pack efficiently and within this weight limit to ensure ease of transportation during the trek.