Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trekking - 11 Days
11 Days
Kathmandu
Lodges and Teahouse
Spring and Autumn
30% Cancellation Charge (Personal Reason)
Guided Trek
Covered
5357 m
BLD During Trek
Private Vehicle/ Flight
6-7 Hours Trek
Available
Available
- A group of skilled professionals
- Partial Payment Option Available
- We assure you the best prices Booking
- Without any complications
Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek are among the adventurous treks in the Everest region of Nepal. Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake trek route take you to the less explored, yet most beautiful part of the Everest region. The wonderful trekking journey begins with an exciting flight to the beautiful Lukla airport. Then following the mighty Dudh Koshi river you’ll pass through several settlements including Jorsalle, Monjo, Namche Bazaar, Phortse, Dole, Macchermo, and finally Gokyo Valley. Passing through these villages, you’ll get a chance to observe the culture and lifestyle of high-altitude Sherpa people.
This amazing trek takes you a wonderful journey to view the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri. Gokyo Lakes are a series of six spectacular glacial lakes. The lakes are at altitudes of between 4,700 m and 5,000 m, making them some of the world’s highest freshwater lakes. Gokyo Ri is one of the best vantage points for the wonderful panorama of snow-capped mountains. You’ll see the world’s four highest peaks including Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu in one glimpse. Besides the fantastic mountain views, you’ll also enjoy the breathtaking view of Ngozumpa Glacier.
Most of the trekkers prefer to visit Gokyo Lakes as a side trip on the popular Everest Base Camp Trek.
Highlights of Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek
- Experience an adventurous flight to Lukla
- Explore Gokyo Valley- one of the highest settlements in the world
- Hike to Gokyo Ri, jaw-dropping view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Cho Oyu
- Ngozumpa Glacier- one of the largest glaciers in Nepal
- Explore Gokyo 5th lake and close up view of Mt. Cho Oyu
- Encounter highland Sherpa people’s culture and lifestyle
Useful Info
Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trekking Difficulty
Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake trek is a moderate trek. In average, you need to walk around 5-6 hours every day with a light bag pack. This trek is somewhat simpler for individuals who’ve done several higher elevations trek. Further, this Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek’s difficult sections lie between Gokyo Lake and Peak. Because the trail is a little bit narrow, rocky, icy, and slippery from the Gokyo village. So, this trek demands a regular exercise at least one or two months before the trek.
Best Time for Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek
Although Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek is doable all year around, the best time is in autumn season (Sep-Nov) and spring (March-May). During these seasons, the weather is usually stable and the visibility is excellent. Plus, you get to trek in the moderate temperatures with the most pleasant weather conditions and the scenic views.
Why Choose the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek?
The Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the most stunning and rewarding trekking experiences in the Everest region, offering trekkers a chance to explore remote and beautiful areas with less crowd than the traditional Everest Base Camp trail. Here’s why the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek is an excellent choice:
1. Unique and Scenic Trekking Route
This trek offers a distinct route compared to the classic Everest Base Camp trek. While Everest Base Camp is well-known, the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes offer trekkers a less crowded, more peaceful experience. The Gokyo Valley itself is famous for its turquoise lakes and breathtaking views, making it a perfect option for those who wish to experience the Himalayas away from the more tourist-heavy routes.
2. Gokyo Ri – The Ultimate Viewpoint
The highlight of the trek is the Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft), one of the highest trekking peaks in Nepal, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. The sunrise from Gokyo Ri is particularly mesmerizing, offering trekkers an unforgettable visual experience of the Himalayas in all their glory.
3. Gokyo Lakes – A Beautiful Alpine Setting
The Gokyo Lakes are a series of high-altitude lakes (also called the Fifth Lake), situated in the Gokyo Valley. These serene and picturesque lakes, nestled in the shadow of snow-capped mountains, are not only visually stunning but hold spiritual significance for the locals. Visiting these lakes gives trekkers a unique opportunity to explore one of Nepal’s most beautiful and untouched regions.
4. Acclimatization and Physical Challenge
The trek’s route has been designed to offer plenty of acclimatization days, such as the day spent in Namche Bazaar (3,430m), allowing trekkers to adjust to the increasing altitude gradually. With stops in Phorse, Machhermo, and Gokyo, the trek offers an optimal pace for acclimatization while maintaining a challenge for physically fit trekkers.
5. Less Crowded Than Other Everest Routes
While Everest Base Camp is a popular destination, the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes trek is comparatively less crowded, providing trekkers with a more tranquil and secluded experience in the Himalayas. The trail offers beautiful mountain views and serene lakes without the busyness often found in the Everest Base Camp area.
6. Diverse Landscapes and Flora/Fauna
As you trek through the Gokyo region, you’ll experience diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests, rocky terrains, and alpine meadows to the high-altitude regions around the lakes. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including Himalayan pheasants and rare species like the snow leopard and yaks.
7. Cultural Experience
As part of the trek, you will pass through traditional Sherpa villages, like Namche Bazaar, where you can interact with the local people and experience their unique culture. These villages are vibrant, with monasteries, Buddhist stupas, and traditional Sherpa architecture.
8. Day-by-Day Breakdown for Optimal Experience
This carefully crafted itinerary ensures trekkers get to enjoy both the physical challenge of the trek and the stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Days 1 to 3: Trekking from Lukla to Namche Bazaar with an acclimatization day in Namche provides an excellent start, allowing you to adjust to the altitude comfortably.
- Days 4 to 6: As you move towards Gokyo, passing through Phorse and Machhermo, you will witness spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and lakes. The peaceful and remote Gokyo village offers an ideal base for the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri hikes.
- Day 7: Gokyo Ri and Lakes: On this day, you climb Gokyo Ri, enjoy a breathtaking sunrise, and visit the Fifth Lake and other smaller lakes in the Gokyo Valley. This will be a highlight of your trek, offering unbeatable mountain views and the unique alpine lake scenery.
- Days 8 to 11: The return journey allows for further immersion in the tranquil landscapes, with stops at Dole, Namche, and Lukla, providing ample time for reflection and enjoyment of the Himalayas before returning to Kathmandu.
9. Perfect for Photography Enthusiasts
The combination of the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks creates some of the most picturesque landscapes in Nepal. If you’re a photography enthusiast, this trek provides ample opportunities to capture breathtaking shots of high-altitude lakes, rugged mountain terrain, and vibrant Sherpa villages.
10. Great Alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek
If you’re seeking an alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp trek, the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake Trek offers a more serene yet equally rewarding trekking experience. This trek gives you the opportunity to explore the Everest region’s remote areas without sacrificing spectacular views of the world’s highest peaks.
Related Trip: Everest – Cho-La Pass – Gokyo Trek
Trekking Equipment checklist
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport and trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,695 ft) (7.5km/4.6mi) 3 – 4 hours, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar Trek (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (9.2km / 5.7mi), 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 03: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,430 m/11,283 ft) , Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 04: Trek to Phorse (3810 m/ 12,496 ft) (9.1km/ 5.6mi) 5 – 6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 05: Phorse Village to Machhermo Trek (4,470 m/ 14,663 ft) (9.3km/5.7mi) 5 – 6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 06: Machharmo to Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft) (5.7km/ 3.5mi) 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 07: Gokyo Valley, Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17,570 ft) (1.5km/ 0.9mi) and hike to fifth lakes: 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 08: Trek to Dole (4038 m /13,244 ft ) (6.9km/ 4.2mi) 3 – 4 hrs, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 09: Trek to Namche Bazaar Namche (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (11km/ 6.8mi) 4 – 5 hours, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 10: Trek to Lukla (2860 m / 9380 ft) (13.5km/8.3mi) 6 – 7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation, (Meal: BLD).
Day 11: Morning flight back to Kathmandu. 30 minutes, Hotel Accommodation, (Meal: BL).
On availability of your time and interest after your trek, please feel free to choose our DAY TOURS, NEPAL TOURS , Jungle Safaris or other options from our website. Here are some trip extensions that might interest you.
Gokyo Ri Trek Map
Itinerary
Day 1: Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu Airport and trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,695 ft) (7.5km/4.6mi) 3 – 4 hours, Tea House Accommodation.
Early in the morning, you’ll head towards the airport for flight to Lukla. Enjoying the wonderful Himalayan views you’ll reach the Tenzing/ Hillary airport in Lukla and it’ll totally fascinate you as it actually hangs off the side of a mountain. Lukla is a small Sherpa village at the altitude of 2,800 meters. After taking some rest at Lukla, you’ll start your Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lake trekking journey. Today you’ll head towards Phakding village which lies at an altitude of 2,651 meters above the sea level. It’ll take roughly 3 – 4 hours to reach Phakding. Overnight at a teahouse in Phakding. Note: Normally, in the morning the weather is clear so flight to Lukla departs early in the morning. If the weather conditions are not favorable then your scheduled flight may delay or cancel.
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar Trek (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (9.2km / 5.7mi), 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation.
After breakfast, you’ll start your trek towards Namche Bazaar. Today’s walk is about 5-6 hours and it is quite pleasant with few uphill and downhill.
Enroute you’ll cross several bridges over Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, you’ll pass through some interesting villages including Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsalle. Once you reach an entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, you need to show your trekking permits. After certain descends, the trail lead you to Jorsalle village, the last settlement before Namche Bazaar.
Enjoying the surrounding view and walking through the river bed you’ll reach Hillary Suspension Bridge. Now as you climb uphill towards Namche Bazaar you’ll get a close-up view of Kwangde Peak and its sister peaks including Kusum Kangaru, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Tawache, and many other surrounding peaks. Finally, after, admiring these views you’ll reach the colorful Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,430 m/11,283 ft), Tea House Accommodation.
This is the first acclimatization day of the trek. Instead of sitting idle you can stay active during the rest day too. So, you’ll have lots of options like you can either spend the day hike to Thame or visit Khunde or you can explore Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazaar is famous as the main gateway of the Khumbu region. This place is the main center of the Everest region. It has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, a bakery, and restaurants. Overnight stay at the teahouse in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4: Trek to Phorse (3810 m/ 12,496 ft) (9.1km/ 5.6mi) 5 – 6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Early in the morning, you’ll head towards Phortse village. It is a beautiful farming village at 3,950 meters above sea level. It will take around 5 – 6 hours to reach Phortse from Namche Bazaar. Namche to Phortse walking distance is 5.7 kilometers. On the way to Phortse, you’ll pass through Mong La and then trek to downhill to Phortse Tenga. And, after crossing Dudh Koshi River you’ll walk uphill and reach the Phortse village for overnight stay.
Day 5: Phorse Village to Machhermo Trek (4,470 m/ 14,663 ft) (9.3km/5.7mi) 5 – 6 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
After having breakfast you’ll walk towards Machhermo village. This village lies south of Gokyo and north of Dole and at an altitude of 4,470 meters. It is an important point for all trekkers who are going to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass route. Phortse to Machhermo walking distance is 7.2 km and it takes about 5 – 6 hours to reach there.
The trail passes through the side of the Dudh Koshi Valley, forests, and waterfalls. You’ll also get a chance to spot wildlife like pheasants, musk deer, and mountain goats. Finally, after crossing the Dole and Luza village you’ll reach Machhermo village. Here you can visit the Himalayan Rescue Hospital where you can learn about altitude sickness. You’ll spend a night at teahouse of Machhermo village.
Day 6: Machharmo to Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft) (5.7km/ 3.5mi) 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation.
Today you’ll walk about 5.7km from Machhermo to Gokyo valley and it takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail is little steep so you should walk in your own pace. The elevation of the Gokyo village is 4,800 meters above the sea level. On the trail, you’ll get the wonderful view of Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Cholatse, and other surrounding peaks. Once you reach the beautiful Gokyo Valley you can explore Gokyo lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier. Overnight stay at Gokyo Valley.
Day 7: Gokyo Valley, Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17,570 ft) (1.5km/ 0.9mi) and back to Gokyo valley: 5 – 6 hours, Tea House Accommodation.
Today early in the morning you’ll hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for the breathtaking view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt. Cho Oyu. You’ll see the majestic view of Gokyo valley. After enjoying the great mountain views you’ll walk down to Gokyo Valley. The total hiking time to Gokyo Ri is about 4 hours. In the afternoon, you’ll explore around 5th lakes for another close and nice view of Mt. Cho Oyu. Overnight stay at Gokyo Valley.
Day 8: Trek to Dole (4038 m /13,244 ft ) (6.9km/ 4.2mi) 3 – 4 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
After having early morning breakfast, you’ll trek back to Dole which takes about 3-4 hours. It lies at 4,200 elevations. On the way back, you’ll get the fantastic mountain views. Today the trail is mostly downhill so it’s quite easy. Overnight stay at a teahouse of Dole.
Day 9: Trek to Namche Bazaar Namche (3,430 m/11,283 ft) (11km/ 6.8mi) 4 – 5 hours, Tea House Accommodation.
Today after breakfast you’ll start your trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar which will take around 4-5 hours. Today’s hike is also mostly downhills like the previous day. First, you’ll descend to Phorstse Tenga. Once again, you’ll reach Mong La Pass where you’ll see the great view of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Taboche, and Mt. Khumbila with the distant view of Tengboche village.
Further, descending down to Sansa village you’ll reach the point where two paths to go to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo valley separates. Before you reach Namche Bazaar, you’ll come across small Kyanjuma village and Namche army camp hill. Once you reach Namche Bazaar, you can take a hot shower and relax. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.
Day 10: Trek to Lukla (2860 m / 9380 ft) (13.5km/8.3mi) 6 – 7 hrs, Tea House Accommodation.
Today you’ll start your trek from Namche Bazaar with steep descend crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi river. All the way to Lukla, you’ll pass through Jorasalle, Monjo, and Benkar village. You’ll capture some last picture of various far distant mountains, chortens, mani walls, suspension bridges, and rivers. Finally, after 6 to 7 hours walk, you’ll reach Lukla for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Morning flight back to Kathmandu. 30 minutes, Hotel Accommodation.
Today after 45 minutes of amazing flight, you land in the domestic terminal of the airport. Then we’ll transfer you to the hotel. After taking some rest you can stroll around Thamel, a popular tourist hub. Overnight stay at Kathmandu.
Cost Includes
- International and Domestic Airport transfer by private vehicle
- 2 Nights accommodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast (3 star Level)
- Flight ticket from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla to Kathmandu.
- Necessary Airport Tax.
- Professional trekking Guide with government license.
- Sherpa Porter who will carry 20Kg max.
- All meals during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
- Tea house accommodation during the trek (Twin sharing basis).
- Purified drinking water (Ef-Chlor water purification tablet).
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Local Entry Permits.
- Necessary Equipment : sleeping bag, Down Jacket, Duffle Bag if needed (Return back to the company after the trek).
- First-Aid kit from The Great Adventure Treks & Expedition including oximeter and oxygen.
- Staff Insurance, Food, salary, Transport and clothing.
- Trekking completion achievement Certificate after completing the trek.
- Free Luggage stored at "The Great Adventure Treks" office store during the trek.
- Emergency Rescue Help (covered by your travel insurance).
- All government and local taxes.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare, visa fee and travel insurance.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Extra expenses : Hard and soft drinks, Wi-Fi, laundry, Hot Shower.
- Additional Nights accommodation in Kathmandu.
- personal gears, upgraded accommodations.
- Tips for staff.
- Additional Porter cost : USD $23 per day.
Booking
Reviews
Good experience in Buthan tour
I joined the tour of Buthan for 3 nights. Although the price is high because I am in a solo trip, the quality is good! Buthan is the cleanest country in the world! You don’t need to worry about anything just be happy and excited to join the tour! I just went for 3nights-tour, but I did visit Paro, Thimpu, Punakha ! Although not every sighting sites that would visit, the important sites would not miss! This is my second time join the tour in this travel agency, and I was satiated with it every time ! They will handle everything well.
Amazing treking and very helpful s ta f f.
We finished 20 days ACt trekking it was amaging . The great adventure treks and expedition is really great. The owner is amazing ，He can speak Chinese very perfectly ， He is very kind and polite . First I want to thanks him for amaging this trekking. The guide and potter they are very kind helpful. In 20 days they care us like family member. I will definetly come here next time to finish EBC. I am really excited for that.
Amazing trips in Nepal 🤩
It was our first time in Nepal, and we spent 7 wonderful days visiting Kathmandu and Pokhara. Sudam was an excellent guide — professional, friendly, and very thoughtful. He introduced us to local restaurants and unique spots, making the trip more authentic. Thanks to him, we enjoyed not only the amazing scenery but also the local lifestyle. Unforgettable memories! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
it was fantastic trip in Nepal, we enjoyed ,thanks for all
Çok güzeldi. Yapabileceğimiz her şeyi yaptık. Bize çok yardımcı oldular. Kesinlikle öneririm.
Very nice 😍😍😍 The tour guide is very nice and considerate.
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