Just finished our gokyo lake trek with MWT
Samuel James
Canada
Gokyo Lake Trek | 13 Days, Cost Itinerary and Best Time
The Gokyo Lake Trek takes you to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier, with a climb to Gokyo Ri for clear views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Duration13 Days
Max Altitude5,357 m
DifficultyChallenging
From
$1349
Trek Overview
Gokyo Lake Trek Overview
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a 13-day journey with 10 days of trekking through the Khumbu. From Namche Bazaar, the trail leaves the main Everest Base Camp route and climbs into the Gokyo Valley, reaching the Gokyo Lakes at 4,790 m / 15,715 ft and Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m / 17,575 ft. You also pass Sherpa villages and the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal.
Not everyone trekking in the Khumbu has Everest Base Camp as the main goal. Many choose Gokyo for a quieter route and more time around the places they visit. In my experience, once you leave Namche, the villages become smaller, the teahouses quieter, and the trail noticeably less busy.
A morning flight to Lukla starts the trek, followed by Phakding and Namche Bazaar. From there, the trail climbs through Dole and Machhermo toward Gokyo. Forest gradually gives way to open slopes, rocky trails, glacial streams, and the Ngozumpa Glacier.
Important Safety Note: Gokyo Lakes are not swimming areas. There have been fatal incidents involving people entering the lakes. Do not swim or jump into the water. It is dangerous and strictly prohibited.
Most trekkers start before sunrise for Gokyo Ri. I recommend an early start because the morning usually offers the best chance of clear mountain views. From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, the Gokyo Lakes, and Ngozumpa Glacier from one viewpoint. You then return through the valley toward Lukla.
Altitude is the main challenge on this trek. The trail is not technically difficult, but several days are above 4,000 m, so your walking pace naturally slows. Our itinerary includes an acclimatisation day in Namche before going higher, and most walking days take around 5 to 7 hours. In my experience, the trekkers who get the most from Gokyo are those who don’t rush. They stop at the lakes, spend time near the glacier, and make the most of the viewpoints.
Ready to go?
Download Day-by-Day Itinerary
Lukla Flight Information:
Your Gokyo Lake Trek begins with a flight to Lukla from either Kathmandu or Ramechhap, depending on the season and current flight operations. During the busy trekking seasons, flights are commonly operated from Ramechhap, which requires an early morning drive from Kathmandu. The flight from Ramechhap to Lukla takes about 15–20 minutes, while flights from Kathmandu take roughly 30–35 minutes. Mountain weather can affect flight times, so some flexibility is important. For current airport arrangements, baggage allowance, and other flight details, see our Lukla Flight Guide.
At a Glance
Quick Trip Facts
Total Distance
Approx. 100 km
Walking Days
10 Day
Accommodation
Hotel & Teahouses
Meals
B+L+D During Trek
Transportation
Car/Van & Lukla Flight
Group Size
Max. 12 People
Guide
Government Licensed Guide
Porter
1 Porter for 2 Guests
Best Season
March–May & Sep–Nov
Fitness Level
Good Physical Fitness Required
Permit
Required Permits Included
Trip Style
Guided Lodge Trek
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
5,357 m
View From Gokyo Ri
Why This Trek
Why Choose the Gokyo Lake Trek?
Choose the Gokyo Lake Trek if you want to see turquoise lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, and the high mountains of the Everest region. You walk through Sherpa villages, reach the Gokyo Lakes, pass the glacier, and climb Gokyo Ri for views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks.
Turquoise Gokyo Lakes
The Gokyo Lakes lie across the valley at high altitude. Their blue-green water is surrounded by rocky slopes, snow, and glaciers.
Views From Gokyo Ri
From Gokyo Ri, you can see across the Everest region. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other high peaks can be seen from the top.
Walk Beside Ngozumpa Glacier
The trail passes close to the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. From the valley, you can see the glacier stretching between the mountains toward the higher passes.
A Quieter Route Through the Khumbu
After Namche, the route follows the Dudh Koshi toward Gokyo through smaller Sherpa settlements. This part of the trek is generally quieter than the main Everest Base Camp route, especially around Gokyo.
Why Trek with us
Why Choose Mountain World Treks for Gokyo Lake Trek?
Choose Mountain World Treks for the Gokyo Lake Trek because you will be trekking with experienced guides who know the Everest region well. We keep groups small, pay close attention to altitude, and stay involved throughout the trek. Our guides check how you are doing each day and adjust the pace, rest, or plan when the weather, trail, or altitude calls for it.
1996
Started as a Trekking Porter
2000
Became a Licensed Guide
2010
Founded Mountain World Treks
Today
Still Actively Guiding Treks in Nepal
30+
Years from Porter to Founder
Guides who know gokyo
Our guides have spent years walking the trails of the Everest region. They know the route, villages, tea houses, and trail conditions along the way.
Trained by Saligram
Saligram personally trains our guides and passes on the practical knowledge and standards he has built through decades in the Himalayas.
We watch the altitude
The trek reaches above 4,700 metres. Our guides monitor how you are doing, carry a pulse oximeter and first-aid kit, and adjust the pace when needed.
Small group max -12
We normally keep our groups between 1-12 trekkers. This makes it easier to maintain an easy pace & give everyone enough time when needed.
Straight answers before you go
Ask us anything before you book. We will explain the walking days, altitude, tea houses, weather, and harder sections so you know what to expect.
Fair Loads & Fair Pay
Our porters carry your bags through the same mountains you walk through. We provide fair pay, reasonable loads, and medical support along the way.
Is This Trek For You
Is Gokyo Lake Trek Right for You?
If you want to explore the Everest region without following the main Base Camp route, the Gokyo Lake Trek is a good choice. You walk through Sherpa villages and the Dudh Koshi Valley before reaching the high lakes at Gokyo. The climb to Gokyo Ri is one of the highlights, giving you a clear view of Everest along with Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The trek is best for people who enjoy being in the mountains and want to experience a different part of the Khumbu. You should be prepared for basic teahouse facilities, changing weather, and the effects of altitude as you get higher.
Perfect For:
- Want Everest views from Gokyo Ri
- Want to explore the famous Gokyo Lakes
- Interested in Sherpa culture and villages
- Prefer quieter trails away from the main EBC route
- Enjoy challenging walks with rewarding views
Not ideal for:
- Mainly want to reach Everest Base Camp
- Prefer hotels and modern comforts
- Don’t enjoy long or steep walking days
- Are uncomfortable at high altitude
- Want road access during the trek
Key Experiences
Gokyo Lake Trek Highlights
Gokyo Lakes
See the beautiful turquoise lakes at 4,790 m in the upper valley.
Gokyo Ri Sunrise
Climb to 5,357 m for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Ngozumpa Glacier
Walk beside Nepal’s longest glacier on the approach to the Gokyo Valley.
Sherpa Culture
Experience Sherpa traditions, local life, and warm hospitality along the trail.
Namche Bazaar
Explore the lively Sherpa town, with local shops, cafés, and mountain views.
High-Altitude Landscapes
See forests, rocky trails, glacial streams, and open valleys as you climb higher.
Trail Map
Gokyo Lake Trek Route Map
100 km round trip. Everest Region, Nepal
Kathmmandu
Day 1
1,350 m
Phakding
Day 2
2,610 m
Namche Bazaar
Day 3-4
3,440 m
Dole
Day 5
4,200 m
Machermo
Day 6
4,410 m
Gokyo
Day 7-8
4,790 m
Dole
Day 9
4,200 m
Namche Bazaar
Day 10
3,440 m
Lukla
Day 11
2,840 m
Kathmandu
Day 12
1,350 m
Trip Ends
Day 13
1,350 m
Day-by-Day
Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary
This is the exact 13-day itinerary I follow on every Gokyo Lakes trek I run. Starting in Kathmandu, we fly to Lukla and trek through Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machermo to reach Gokyo, with a dedicated hike to Gokyo Ri before retracing the trail back to Namche Bazaar, Lukla, and Kathmandu. Below, you’ll find the daily itinerary, overnight elevations, walking times, and practical advice based on my years leading treks in the Khumbu region.
Trek Cost
Gokyo Lake Trek Cost
Our 13-day Gokyo Lake Trek costs USD 1,349 per person. The price is the same whether you join a group or choose a private trek. For a private trek, you can select your own dates and travel with your own group without paying extra.
Group Joining Trek
$1,349 / per person
Join a scheduled departure and trek with other travelers.
Mostly Taken
Private Trek
$1349/ person
Same price, your own dates and your own group.
- Your departure date
- Private group
- Flexible itinerary
Customize My Trek
Custom / quote
Want to change the standard Gokyo itinerary? We can arrange a trek around your plans.
- Custom itinerary
- Upgrade accommodation
- Helicopter return
How to Book
How We Arrange Your Gokyo Lake Trek
From your first inquiry to your arrival in Nepal, we handle the key arrangements for your trek.
01
Send an Inquiry
Share your dates, group size, and trek preferences.
02
Get Your Plan & Quote
Receive your itinerary, price, and trip details.
03
Confirm Your Booking
Pay the deposit and receive your booking confirmation.
04
Prepare for Your Trek
Get packing advice and essential trip information.
Package Details
The Gokyo Lake Trek Cost Includes & Excludes
The Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (before and after the trek)
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu)
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
- Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter shared between 2 trekkers, maximum combined luggage weight of 25 kg)
- 10 nights teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a cup of tea or coffee)
- Fresh seasonal fruit after dinner during the trek
- Comprehensive first-aid kit and pulse oximeter carried by your guide
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag (available on request)
- Free luggage storage at our Kathmandu office during the trek
- Company T-shirt, trek completion certificate, and medal
- All government taxes and agency service charges
The Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Nepal
- Nepal tourist visa fee
- Travel insurance covering trekking up to 5,500 m, including emergency helicopter evacuation
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, bottled or boiled water, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging at teahouses
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips for your guide and porter (optional but always appreciated)
- Extra accommodation, meals, or transportation in Kathmandu due to flight delays, early arrival, or late departure
- Any costs arising from itinerary changes caused by weather, natural disasters, government restrictions, flight cancellations, or personal emergencies
Travel insurance is not included in the package. Before your trek, you must purchase a policy that covers high-altitude trekking (up to at least 5,500 m) and emergency helicopter evacuation. Guests often add the optional Gokyo Ri hike (5,357 m) during the two nights at Gokyo, so it's worth setting the coverage threshold above that even though it isn't a fixed line item in the itinerary.
Alternative Itinerary
Everest Base Camp Trek | 14 Days Itinerary, Cost & Best Time
If reaching Everest Base Camp is something you genuinely want to experience, this trek can be a great choice. The journey takes you into the heart of the Khumbu, where you experience Sherpa villages, mountain culture, and life in the Himalayas along the way. The…
Where To Sleep
Accommodation During the Gokyo Lake Trek
You’ll stay in teahouses throughout the trek, with twin-sharing rooms and shared bathrooms. In Kathmandu, you’ll have a private hotel room. See our Gokyo Lake Trek Accommodation Guide for more details.
- Twin rooms throughout
- Heated dining rooms
- WiFi and charging
- Hot showers where available
Food & Drinks During the Gokyo Lake Trek
Teahouses serve familiar trekking meals such as dal bhat, momo, noodles, pasta, rice, potatoes, soups, eggs, pancakes, and bread. Menus become more limited at higher elevations. See our Gokyo Lake Trek Food & Drinks Guide for more details.
- Vegetarian meals, eggs, and cheese
- Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
- Snacks and drinks at teahouses
Trek Gear & Packing Ideas
Gokyo Lake Trek Packing Checklist
Gokyo gets cold as you gain altitude, so pack in layers rather than relying on one heavy jacket. Bring good trekking boots, a warm down jacket, a waterproof shell, thermal layers, gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and a reusable water bottle. Keep your larger items in your duffel and carry the things you need during the day in your daypack.
Our Gokyo Lake Trek Packing List breaks down what to take for clothing, footwear, sleeping gear, toiletries, electronics, and travel documents.
Fitness & Difficulty
How Difficult Is the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
Moderate to challenging. The Gokyo Valley Trek is a steady mountain walk with long uphill sections and a few steep climbs. The route gets harder as you reach the upper valley, with Gokyo Ri being the toughest part if you choose to climb it.
What Makes the Trek Challenging?
- Altitude: Gokyo sits at 4,790 m, while Gokyo Ri reaches 5,357 m.
- Trail conditions: The higher part of the route has uneven ground around the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Gokyo Ri: The climb is optional, but it is a steep morning walk & the highest point of the trek.
For more detail on the route, altitude, and preparation, see our Gokyo Lake Trek Difficulty Guide.
What Fitness Level Is Needed for the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
You do not need to be an athlete. You should be comfortable walking for several hours, going uphill and downhill, and walking on uneven ground. Regular walking and some hill training before the trek will make the longer walking days easier.
You’re Ready for the Gokyo Lakes Trek If You-
- Train regularly for several weeks before the trek
- Include hills, stairs, or uphill walking in your routine
- Build up to longer walks of 4–6 hours
- Carry a light daypack during longer training walks
For a detailed training plan and altitude preparation, see our Complete Trek Fitness & Training Guide.
TREKKING SEASON
When Is the Best Time for Gokyo Lakes Trek?
Generally, spring and autumn are the best seasons for the Gokyo Lakes Trek. March to May brings warmer days, rhododendrons in bloom in the lower valleys, and mostly settled weather as you walk higher. From late September to November, the air is usually clearer, and the mountains stand out well. Winter is cold but peaceful, while the monsoon months can bring cloud, rain, and changes to the Lukla flights.
Better
Spring Season
Mar · Apr · MaySpring brings warmer weather to the trail and flowers to the forests below Namche. As you move toward Gokyo, the mornings are often clear, although afternoon clouds can appear. April and May are also busy months on the trail.
- Weather: Mild days, cold nights
- Crowds: High - peak season
- Visibility: Generally good
Possible
Summer Season
June · July · AugustThese are the monsoon months in Nepal. Rain is more common on the lower sections, while cloud can cover the mountains and change the views from day to day. Lukla flights can also be affected by poor weather. You will meet fewer trekkers on the route.
- Weather: Rain and cloud, humid
- Crowds: Low - Low season
- Visibility: Variable
Best
Autumn Season
Sep · Oct · NovLate September usually brings more settled weather back to the trail. October is a favorite month for Gokyo because of clear mornings and strong mountain views. By November, the mornings and nights become noticeably colder, but the skies can remain clear
- Weather: Cool and mostly dry
- Crowds: High - peak season
- Visibility: Excellent
Good
Winter Season
Dec · Jan · FebWinter is cold in Gokyo, particularly after sunset and before sunrise. Snow can cover parts of the higher trail, but the route is quieter and clear mornings can give very sharp views of the surrounding peaks. If you prefer fewer people and do not mind the cold, winter can be a good choice.
- Weather: Cold, with possible snow
- Crowds: Low - Low season
- Visibility: Often very good
Compare Popular Treks
Gokyo lakes Trek Vs Everest base camp Trek
Not sure whether to choose Gokyo lakes or Everest Base Camp? Compare the main differences side by side to see which trek suits you better.
| Feature | Gokyo Lake Trek | 13 Days, Cost Itinerary and Best Time | Everest Base Camp Trek | 14 Days Itinerary, Cost & Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 13 Days Days | 14 Days Days |
| Highest Point | Gokyo Ri – 5,357 m | Kala Patthar – 5,545 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging | Challenging |
| Best For | Exploring Gokyo Lakes, walking beside Ngozumpa Glacier & climbing Gokyo Ri | Standing at Everest Base Camp, experiencing Sherpa culture & high mountain views |
| Mountain Highlights | Cho Oyu, Everest, Makalu & surrounding peaks | Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse & Ama Dablam |
| Landscape | Gokyo Lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, valleys & high mountain trails | High valleys, glaciers, villages & rugged mountain terrain |
| Culture | Sherpa villages & Tibetan Buddhist culture | Sherpa villages & Tibetan Buddhist culture |
| Crowds | Lower | Higher |
| Trek Experience | Quieter route with lakes, glacier views & Gokyo Ri | Classic Everest route with Base Camp, Kala Patthar & more busy trails |
People Also Ask
Explore the full guides
The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a high-altitude trek through the Khumbu, with long walking days, steep climbs, and an ascent to Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m. These guides cover what you need to arrange before and during the trek, from training and insurance to weather, flights, permits, costs, altitude, and trekking with family or on your own.
How do I train for the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
Start with regular walking and gradually add hills, stairs, and longer uphill hikes. You should be comfortable walking for several hours and handling consecutive days on the trail. Squats, lunges, step-ups, and core exercises can help build the leg strength needed for the climbs. The higher sections also demand good endurance, so increase your walking distance and elevation gradually before the trek. Our Fitness and Training Guide gives you a week-by-week plan and explains which exercises to focus on.
Fitness & Training Guide
- Prep window: 8–10 weeks before departure
- Weekly focus: Hiking, hills, stairs, or brisk walking
- Strength work: Squats, lunges, step-ups, and core exercises twice a week
- Endurance goal: Build up to several hours of walking with uphill and downhill sections, including some back-to-back walking days
Gokyo Lakes Trek: Complete Guide
The Gokyo Lakes Trek follows a quieter route through the Khumbu than the main Everest Base Camp trail. From Lukla, you walk through Phakding and Namche Bazaar, then turn towards Dole and Machhermo before reaching Gokyo Village at 4,790 m. From Gokyo, the trail leads to the Gokyo Lakes and up Gokyo Ri, with views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu on a clear day. The route then descends through the Khumbu and returns to Lukla. The Gokyo Lakes Trek guide covers the day-by-day itinerary, best time to go, trek difficulty, altitude and acclimatization, food and accommodation, trekking gear, permits, Lukla flights, and costs.
See the Trek Before You Go
Gokyo lake Trek Video
gokyo lake
Sue Johnson
United Kingdom
Best outdoor adventure of our lives
Tiger
Manchester, United Kingdom
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions Gokyo Lake Trek
Find answers to common questions about the Gokyo Lake Trek, including the route, altitude, difficulty, accommodation, permits, costs, weather, and preparation.
Still have questions? Our team responds within 24 hours.
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Gokyo Lake Trek | 13 Days, Cost Itinerary and Best Time