Gokyo Lakes Trek

Highlights: 

• Majestic view towering peaks - Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and more 
• A delightful tour of alpine lakes of Gokyo 
• Close view of world’s largest Himalayan glacier - Ngozumpa Glacier 
• Close insight to Sherpa’s culture and lifestyle 
• Tantalizing sunrise view from Gokyo Ri 
• A scenic hike to the less-visited part of Everest (Khumbu) region

Gokyo Lakes Trek - A super alternative to Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC). 

Trekkers may not get “as close” to the towering peaks as on Everest Base Camp Trek but they are compensated with the enthralling wilderness and less-crowds. 

We all know that Khumbu region is full of insanely towering peaks, wild valleys and steep rock faces but do you know there are collections of alluring lakes and stunning glaciers. Join 14 days Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary to enjoy the beauty of the Everest region from a different perspective. 

Gokyo Lakes Trek is one of the most scenic and picturesque less-trodden trekking route in the Khumbu region. Often dubbed as the best alternative to classic EBC Trek, this trek is perfect for those who wish to avoid the crowds and enjoy the untouched valleys, pristine lakes, gigantic glaciers and parades of majestic peaks together. 

Gokyo Lakes are the collection of sparkling, pristine blue and green waters which are one of the highest located mountain lakes in the world. Beside its bewildering beauty, Gokyo Lake is an equally auspicious sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhist. During the Janai Purnima Festival, you can see the flocks of Hindu pilgrims making a hike to Gokyo Lakes to perform holy bath and religious activities. 

Another major highlight of Gokyo Lakes Trek is the stiff yet scenic climb up to the Gokyo Ri viewpoint. Gokyo Ri summit offers an excellent view of towering peaks like Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Makalu. Moreover, you will get the stunning view of Ngozumpa Glacier stretching below the Cho Oyu Himla - the largest glacier in the world (36km). 

Gokyo Lakes Trek Route 

Gokyo Lakes Trek starts with an exciting flight from Kathmandu to Lukla: make sure to take a left hand side seat for your first glimpse of Everest region. After getting your baggage and crew organized, you will start the trek through Sherpa village with well-cultivated fields. The first day is quite easy as the majority of the trek concerns downhill walk but day two is really tedious with a long challenging climb to Namche Bazaar. Namche is a surprisingly large town offering modern restaurants, bakeries, cafes and more. You will stay one more night here to acclimatize your body to a thin atmosphere. 

After Namche, you will leave the main trail and head up to the Dudh Kosi Valley through the sleepy village of Dole and Machhermo before finally emerging into the Gokyo valley. Here you will discover the 5 turquoise lakes originated from the peaks and glaciers above. Beside alluring lakes, the highlight of Gokyo Lakes Trek is a short climb to Gokyo Ri, just above the village which offers an excellent view of Cho Oyu and Everest peaks.

It takes three easy downhill walks back to Lukla to conclude the trek. 

Gokyo Lakes Trek Difficulty 

With the given elevation and remoteness, the Gokyo Lakes Trek may seem daunting but it is not the exclusive domain of experienced trekkers. With some preparation and strength, almost anyone can do it. 

You have to walk 5 - 6 hours covering 10 - 15 km distance per day. Although the trekking route of Gokyo is less traveled, the trail is easily navigable with signposts through the trek . 

Altitude is the major factor to consider during the trek. You will need to stay few nights above 4,000m so there is a high possibility of suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Thus we suggest you not rush while hiking on the upper reaches of the trek and consider taking few acclimatization stops during the trek.