Gokyo Lake Trek

Trip Facts

  • Duration14 Day
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • DestinationNepal
  • Best SeasonSpring & Autum
  • Major ActivityTrekking
  • Max Altitude5,357 meters (17,575 feet)

Highlights

  • Explore the stunning turquoise lakes that are the heart of the trek, offering peaceful and picturesque views.
  • Climb to the top of Gokyo Ri for a breathtaking panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, some of the highest peaks in the world.
  • Visit charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Phortse, where you can experience local culture and hospitality.
  • Walk along scenic trails that follow the Dudh Koshi River and pass through beautiful forests, meadows, and high-altitude landscapes.
  • Witness the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, adding an impressive natural wonder to your trek.
  • Enjoy the rich cultural experience with visits to ancient monasteries, interacting with local people, and learning about their traditions and way of life.

About Trip

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a remarkable journey through the Everest region of Nepal, known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil beauty. This trek offers an alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp trek, providing trekkers with a unique experience of the Himalayas. The trek takes you through the Gokyo Valley, where you will encounter a series of beautiful turquoise lakes, with Gokyo Ri offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Starting from Lukla, the trek follows the Dudh Koshi River and passes through traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Phortse, and Machhermo. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the rich culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people, as well as visit ancient monasteries and marvel at the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The trail gradually ascends, allowing for proper acclimatization and ensuring trekkers can enjoy the journey without the risk of altitude sickness.

The highlight of the Gokyo Lake Trek is reaching the Gokyo Lakes, a series of six glacial-fed lakes that are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek to Gokyo Ri, a nearby peak, is a challenging yet rewarding climb that offers some of the most spectacular views in the Himalayas. From the summit, trekkers can witness the majestic panorama of the Everest range and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. This trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure, making it an unforgettable experience for all who embark on it.

Itinerary

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    Upon your arrival in Nepal, you'll be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation. Take this day to rest and get acclimated to the new surroundings.

      Spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Kathmandu. Visit key cultural sites and immerse yourself in the local history and traditions. Later, finalize preparations for your upcoming trek. (5-7 hours tour)

        Begin your adventure with a scenic flight to Lukla. From there, embark on a trek to the village of Phakding. (4-5 hours trek)

          Continue your journey with a trek to Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town and the gateway to the Himalayas. (5-6 hours trek)

            Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude with a hike in the Namche Bazaar area. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest and other peaks. (4-5 hours hike)

              Trek through rhododendron and pine forests as you make your way to the village of Dole. (5-6 hours trek)

                Ascend through the alpine landscape to reach Machherma, a small settlement with stunning mountain views. (4-5 hours trek)

                  Continue your trek to the beautiful Gokyo Lake, surrounded by majestic peaks. (4-5 hours trek)

                    Rise early for a hike to Gokyo Ri, where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise view. Spend the rest of the day exploring the Gokyo Lakes. (5-6 hours hike)

                      Begin your descent with a trek back to Dhole, retracing your steps through the serene landscape. (5-6 hours trek).

                        Return to Namche Bazaar, enjoying the familiar trails and the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. (5-6 hours trek)

                          Conclude your trek with a journey back to Lukla, where you’ll prepare for your return to Kathmandu. (6-7 hours trek)

                            Take a short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you can relax or explore more of the city at your leisure. (30-35 minute flight)

                              Bid farewell to Nepal as you head to the airport for your final departure. Take with you unforgettable memories of your Gokyo Lake Trek.

                              What's Included
                              • ll transportation by private vehicle including airport transfers
                              • Three night’s accommodation with breakfast at 2-3 star category hotel in Kathmandu
                              • Kathmandu city tours with a tour with an experienced tour guide and a vehicle
                              • Three daily meals with tea/coffee (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
                              • Best available tea houses lodge during the trek including a private bathroom in Lukla. Phakding and Namche.
                              • A highly experienced professional trekking guide and porters (1 porter for 2 pax) with their food, accommodation, salary, and insurance
                              • Flight fare Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu
                              • Sleeping bag and duffel bag (to be returned)
                              • Trekking map for a group and trekking achievement certificate
                              • First aid medical Kit
                              • All required permits for the trekking
                              • Government tax/vat and office service charge
                              What's Excluded
                              • International airfare
                              • Personal insurance
                              • Major foods ( Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu)
                              • Nepal entry visa fee 15 days 25$, 30 days 40$ and 90 days 100$
                              • Soft drinks, hard drinks, and water
                              • Entry fees of Kathmandu world heritage sites
                              • Personal trekking equipment and expenses
                              • Hot shower, Battery charge, Wi-Fi during the trekking period
                              • Tips and gratitude for the staffs

                              Dates & Availability

                              We customize your trip as per your requirements. If you are looking fully customized trip, please feel free to contact us.

                              Useful Information

                              • Best Time for Gokyo Lake Trek

                              The ideal seasons for the Gokyo Lake Trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These times offer the best weather conditions, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, perfect for trekking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.

                              • Gokyo Lake Trek Difficulty Level

                              The Gokyo Lake Trek is considered moderately difficult. While it doesn't require technical climbing skills, it does involve long walking days and steep ascents, particularly when climbing Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters. Good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended.

                              • Preventing Altitude Sickness on Gokyo Lake Trek

                              Altitude sickness is a common concern for trekkers. To prevent it, acclimatize properly by taking rest days, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually. Medications like Diamox can also be helpful. It's crucial to recognize symptoms early and descend if necessary.

                              • Packing List for Gokyo Lake Trek

                              Pack wisely for the Gokyo Lake Trek. Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing (layering is key), a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, and water purification tablets. Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the high-altitude sun.

                              • Sherpa Culture on Gokyo Lake Trek

                              Interacting with the local Sherpa community is a highlight of the Gokyo Lake Trek. Take time to visit monasteries and learn about Sherpa traditions and lifestyle. Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, offers a great opportunity to experience local culture and hospitality.

                              • Accommodation Options on Gokyo Lake Trek

                              Accommodation on the Gokyo Lake Trek ranges from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. Teahouses provide essential amenities like meals, a warm place to sleep, and a chance to meet fellow trekkers. Booking in advance during peak seasons can ensure a spot, as they can fill up quickly.

                              • Best Guide for Gokyo Lake Trek

                              Hiring a knowledgeable guide for the Gokyo Lake Trek ensures safe navigation and enhances your experience with local expertise. They provide valuable cultural insights, helping you understand Sherpa traditions and lifestyle. Guides also assist with altitude sickness prevention and first aid. Their connections with teahouses ensure better accommodations and meals. Overall, a guide makes the trek safer and more enriching.

                              FAQs

                              • Q1. What is the best time to do the Gokyo Lake Trek?

                                The best times to trek to Gokyo Lake are during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally clear and stable, offering the best views and conditions for trekking.

                              • The Gokyo Lake Trek is considered moderately difficult. It involves trekking at high altitudes and can be physically demanding. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

                              • Yes, you will need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the entry points to the park.

                              • The highest point on the trek is Gokyo Ri, which stands at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). It offers spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other Himalayan peaks.

                              • Accommodation on the Gokyo Lake Trek is typically in teahouses, which are basic lodges providing meals and lodging. The teahouses offer simple rooms, usually with shared bathrooms. As you ascend, the facilities may become more basic.

                              • Packing essentials include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing (layers are recommended), a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, a first aid kit, trekking poles, a water purification system, and snacks. Don’t forget your permits, travel documents, and cash, as ATMs are scarce along the trek.

                              • To prevent altitude sickness, it is important to acclimatize properly by ascending slowly and allowing time for rest. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider taking medication like Diamox if recommended by your doctor. Listen to your body and descend if you experience severe symptoms.

                              • Teahouses along the trek offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), as well as international options such as pasta, noodles, and pancakes. Vegetarian options are widely available, and it is advisable to stick to simple, cooked foods to avoid stomach issues.

                              • Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for the Gokyo Lake Trek. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellations. Trekking in remote areas comes with inherent risks, and insurance provides necessary protection and peace of mind.

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