Gokyo Lake Trek
Destination
Everest
Duration
13 Days
Grade
High Advance
Max Altitude
5,420m
Group Size
2-18 Pax
Meal
All Inclusive
Activity
4-6 hrs
Accommodation
Hotel/Teahouse
Season
Autumn/spring
Description
Gokyo lake trek
If you’re up for an adventure that’s a bit off the beaten path but full of breathtaking sights, the Gokyo Valley trek might just be your thing. While it’s not as crowded as the typical route to Everest Base Camp, it’s just as stunning, if not more so. As you start off, the trail looks familiar, following the well-trodden path toward Everest until you reach Sanasa, close to Kangjuma, not far from Namche Bazar.
From there, things get interesting. Instead of heading straight to Everest base camp, the trail veers left, hugging the Dudh Koshi River until it leads you to a place of sheer beauty – the source of several lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier. Gokyo village sits amidst this wonderland, surrounded by yaks and authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere. And the highlight? Gokyo Ri, standing tall at 5360m, treating you to jaw-dropping panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and a trio of mesmerizing lakes – Dudh Pokhari, Tanjung Tso, and Longpongma.
ExploreÂ
But it’s not just about the views. It’s about immersing yourself in the lives of the locals, witnessing the rush of glacial rivers, marveling at remnants of glaciers, and being captivated by the hues of Gokyo Lakes. Speaking of which, did you know they’re the highest freshwater lakes globally, sitting pretty between 4,700 to 5,000m within Sagarmatha National Park? They’re not just beautiful; they’re historically significant, considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists, and recognized as important wetlands.
Lonely Planet writers even rave about this place, calling it the most spectacular in the Khumbu region. Imagine adding an extra day to explore the 5th and 6th lakes, nestled at the base of Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest mountain. The trek might take around 5 hours, getting steeper as you ascend, but the reward at Gokyo Ri is unparalleled – views that will etch themselves into your memory forever.
Before heading up to Gokyo Ri and the valley, taking some time in Namche Bazar helps you acclimate to the higher altitudes. And hey, while you’re there, you can swing by Khumjung Village, home to a school backed by the legendary Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the first conquerors of Mount Everest.
Descend To Lukla Same Way:
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, guests are warmly welcomed by an Alliance Trekking representative. After completing necessary customs formalities, including visa procedures, guests will be transferred to Hotel Manang or a similar establishment. The evening will be highlighted by a traditional Nepalese “Welcome Dinner” at a renowned local restaurant, offering a glimpse into Nepalese culture through captivating performances.
The day begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, followed by a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. Guests will visit iconic landmarks such as the Bouddha Nath Stupa, Pasupatinath temple, and Patan Durbar Square. The evening will feature a briefing session at the Alliance Trekking head office, where guests will receive trekking documents and be introduced to their trekking guide.
An early morning flight takes guests to Lukla, the starting point of the trek. The journey continues with a picturesque trek to Phakding, allowing ample time for acclimatization. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Phakding.
The trek proceeds through scenic landscapes, crossing suspension bridges and passing through quaint villages. As guests approach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region, they are greeted with captivating views of the majestic Mt. Everest. The day culminates with an overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Dedicated to acclimatization, this day allows guests to explore Namche Bazaar and its surroundings. Activities may include a visit to the Tourist Visitor Center, a hike to Khumjung, or a leisurely stroll through the bustling local market. The day ends with an overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
The trek continues towards Dole, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape. The day’s journey is characterized by diverse terrains and unique cultural encounters, culminating in an overnight stay in Dole.
As guests ascend further, the landscape transforms, revealing a myriad of natural beauty. The day’s trek to Machermo offers a blend of challenging terrains and serene environments, with an overnight stay in Machermo.
Guests embark on an exploration of the Gokyo Valley, a pristine region renowned for its breathtaking beauty. The day’s activities may include hiking, sightseeing, and immersing oneself in the unique culture of the region.
An early morning hike to Gokyo Ri promises unparalleled views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. After soaking in the panoramic vistas, guests trek back to Machermo, retracing their steps through the enchanting landscapes.
The return journey to Namche Bazaar offers a chance to revisit familiar trails and landscapes, providing a different perspective on the journey. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
The final leg of the trek takes guests back to Lukla, where it all began. The day’s trek is marked by reflections on the journey and anticipation of the adventures ahead.
A short, scenic flight transports guests from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free for relaxation or exploration of the vibrant city.
Cost Includes
- Airport pickup and drop/transfer to hotel
- All domestic airline tickets and tax.
- All necessary permit and entrance fees.
- Inclusive of all necessary taxes and entrance fees
- All necessary hotels in Kathmandu.
- Ground transportation provided for the entire journey
- Complete coverage of staff wages for both guides and helpers
- Comprehensive insurance for all necessary staff
- Provision of all meals during the trek period (including Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and tea)
Cost Exclude
- Lunch, dinner, drinks, and additional accommodation in Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee ($25 USD for a 15-day visa, obtainable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu).
- Travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Items of personal expenses such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, and tips, etc.
- Personal rescue if needed
Essential Gear Checklist
Clothing:
- Comfortable Daypack with a waterproof bag cover
- Comfortable Trekking Boots
- Comfortable Sports/Light Shoes
- Several pairs of comfortable T-shirts
- Sandals
- 3-4 pairs of normal and warm socks
- Comfortable Trekking Pants
- Thin layers for comfort
- Warm layers for insulation
- Waterproof jacket and pants for comfort
- Warm hat and sun cap
- Thin and warm gloves
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
Gear Provided (to be returned after the trip):
- Warm sleeping bag
- Down jacket for warmth
- Trekking poles for support
- Trekking Duffel Bag
- Water bottle for hydration
- Water purification tablets
Gallery
