Gokyo Lakes and Ri Trek - 12 Days
Region: Everest Region | Duration: 12 days | Difficulty: Challenging | From $1230
Trek Overview
The Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek (12 Days) is a spectacular high-altitude journey in Nepal’s Everest (Khumbu) region, offering a quieter and more scenic alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route.This trek takes you through traditional Sherpa villages, lush valleys, and rugged alpine landscapes to the breathtaking Gokyo Valley, home to a chain of six sacred turquoise glacial lakes. Recognized as a Ramsar wetland site, these pristine lakes hold religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists and are among the highest freshwater lake systems in the world.Designed for fit trekkers with proper acclimatization, the trek combines cultural immersion with dramatic Himalayan scenery.Along the route, you will pass Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa hub, before branching off toward the peaceful Gokyo region. Trekkers also walk alongside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, adding to the adventure.The ultimate highlight of the trek is the ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region. From the summit, you are rewarded with unforgettable panoramic views of four of the world’s highest peaks: Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.Best experienced in spring and autumn, this trek is perfect for those seeking dramatic mountain views, rich culture, and a less crowded Himalayan experience.General InformationDetailInformationRegionEverest (Khumbu)AccommodationHotel in Kathmandu, Tea-houses on trekStart/End PointLuklaGroup SizeFlexible (solo to group)Guide/PorterAvailable and recommendedAbout the TrekWhat Makes Gokyo Lakes Trek Special?The Gokyo Lakes Trek is perfect for trekkers who want a quieter, more reflective experience without missing the grandeur of the Himalayas. With surreal views, rich culture, and the jaw-dropping Gokyo Ri summit, many say this is the most beautiful trek in the Everest region.The Gokyo Lake system consists of six stunning high-altitude lakes located between 4,700 and 5,000 meters. The largest lake, Dudh Pokhari, sits beside Gokyo village and the stone-built lodges that form the Gokyo resort area. These lakes aren't just photogenic. They hold cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance as the world's highest freshwater lake system.The Six Gokyo Lakes:LakeLocal NameAltitudeNotabilityFirst LakeLongpanga Tsho4,690mSmallest of the main lakesSecond LakeTaujung Tsho4,710mClose to main trekking pathThird LakeDudh Pokhari4,750mBeside Gokyo Village & lodgesFourth LakeThonak Tsho4,860mLargest by surface area (62 ha)Fifth LakeNgozumpa Tsho5,000mRemote, glacier viewsSixth LakeGyazumba Tsho5,100mAt the foot of Cho OyuWhy Choose the Gokyo Lakes Trek?Fewer Crowds: The Gokyo trek route is less traveled than the Everest Base Camp trail, giving you a more peaceful, intimate Himalayan experience.Stunning Views: From the top of Gokyo Ri, you get a front-row seat to Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the massive glacial landscape.Sacred Lakes: The Gokyo Lake system is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, offering cultural and spiritual depth.Sherpa Culture: Experience authentic traditions in Sherpa communities throughout the Gokyo Valley.Eco-Rich Environment: The trail falls within Sagarmatha National Park, home to rare wildlife, yak herds, and diverse alpine flora.
Trek Highlights
Complete Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Our airport representative will welcome you to Nepal. After a quick photo, they'll escort you to your hotel.After settling in, a traditional Nepali dinner awaits you at a local restaurant. Your guide will introduce themselves and brief you on the Gokyo Lake Trek. You'll be provided with duffel bags and other company apparel.Insider Note: Keep only essentials with you (self-care items, personal first-aid kit, water-resistant jacket, camera gear, travel flask, water-purification tablets, portable chargers, and any other items you deem essential). hotelAccommodation: Hotel (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast
Day 2: Morning Drive to Manthali for Flight to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
Start early with a drive from Kathmandu to Manthali Airport (about 4 hours). Leave your hotel around 3 AM to catch the first flight to Lukla. Experience the exhilarating flight to the mountain airstrip of Lukla (2,860m), nestled on a mountaintop.Start the trek by heading north towards the valley of Dudh Kosi and descend into the forested valley to Phakding. The trail is gentle, a 3-4 hour downhill walk through charming Sherpa villages, mani stones, and swaying suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.What You'll See: Traditional houses adorned with prayer flags The village of Chheplung Beautiful pine forests and rushing whitewater Why Phakding Matters: Though not very high, Phakding sets the tone for gradual acclimatization. It's a quiet village with teahouses built for rest and warm food.Insider Note: Flights from Manthali to Lukla are prone to cancellations and delays. If you leave any gear behind, Lukla has most gear you might need. Namche Bazaar is another option. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bank Food: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 7.5km / 4.6 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 2,860m / 9,383 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 3-4 hourstransportationTransportation: 30 min flight
Day 3: Trek from Phakding (2,610m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Head out of Phakding towards Namche Bazaar along the Dudh Kosi River through forests with glimpses of mountains, terraced fields, and lush vegetation.You cross several suspension bridges as you pass through the villages of Monjo, Zamphuti, and Benkar. Sagarmatha National Park Checkpoint: At Monjo, you'll officially enter the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park. Your permits will be checked here.The Final Climb: After lunch in Jorsalle, the real challenge begins: a steep, switchback climb of over 600 meters.When your legs are begging for a break, the trail rewards you with the first view of Mount Everest (weather permitting) at the Everest Viewpoint. You'll also see Lhotse, Nuptse, and the graceful curve of Ama Dablam. Namche Bazaar:Arriving in Namche Bazaar feels like entering a Himalayan amphitheater. Colorful lodges hug the terraced hillside, and yaks amble through cobbled alleys.At 3,440 meters, it's your first major acclimatization stop. What to Do: Sip coffee at Everest Bakery Browse trekking gear shops and handicrafts Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum Enjoy mountain views from your teahouse balcony Insider Note: Give way to mules and yaks. Stay opposite the cliff side when giving way. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 10km / 6.2 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 4: Acclimatization Day - Hike to Everest View Hotel
You've made it to 3,440 meters, and now it's time to let your body catch up. This acclimatization day is spent hiking to Khumjung after an early breakfast.Morning Hike: Starting from a steep ascent towards the airstrip of Syangboche, you'll find yourself in front of Sagarmatha Next, a local organization tackling waste pollution while creating art pieces from collected waste. Everest View Hotel: Built by the Japanese, this hotel offers your first clear view of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam.After a tea break, head towards the village of Khumjung for lunch. Khumjung Village: Walk up to Kunde to visit the Edmund Hillary Hospital and Edmund Hillary Secondary School. You'll also visit Khumjung Monastery where you can see the only 'Yeti' skull in the world. The monastery was damaged during the 2015 earthquake, but repairs have been made.Why Acclimatization Matters: Your body needs to adjust to thinning air. Spending the day here helps you safely reach Gokyo Ri in the days to come. The general rule? "Climb high, sleep low." Insider Note: If you're not familiar with trekking poles, learn the basics from your guide. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 6km / 3.7 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 3,880m / 12,730 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,038m)
Today marks the moment your trek shifts from familiar to truly unique. After breakfast, you'll say goodbye to the classic EBC trail and branch off toward the turquoise serenity of the Gokyo Valley.From Namche Bazaar, the trail initially climbs steeply to a ridge offering sweeping views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and distant Cho Oyu (the sixth-highest mountain in the world). You'll pass through Mong La (3,975m), a scenic ridge-top village perfect for a lunch stop, before descending to Phortse Thenga, a riverside forest junction.Then the climb begins again, winding through juniper forests and up alpine switchbacks to Dole, a cozy hamlet that clings to the side of the valley.What You'll See: Rhododendron and birch forests Himalayan tahr or musk deer if you're lucky Gushing waterfalls and mossy rocks Glimpses of Gokyo Peak mountains ahead Why This Day Feels Different: Fewer trekkers, more solitude.As you enter the less-trodden paths of the Gokyo Valley, the vibe shifts from bustling lodges to tranquil, almost meditative landscapes. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 11km / 6.8 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 4,038m / 13,248 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 6: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)
As the trail gains elevation, your surroundings transform from forested hillsides to windswept alpine meadows.This is where the journey starts to feel truly otherworldly. Leaving Dole, the trail climbs steadily through Rhododendron forests transitioning to juniper shrubs as elevation rises. The trail predominantly follows the side of Khumbila, a holy mountain the Khumbu Valley is named after.The Dudh Koshi River seems far below as you hike toward the small settlement of Machhermo. By early afternoon, you'll reach Machhermo, a scenic bowl-shaped village nestled beneath rocky ridges and glacial giants.What Makes This Day Special: Increasing remoteness: just you, the wind, and mountains Cho Oyu views: one of the best vantage points on the trail More wildlife sightings: Himalayan snow cocks and shy blue sheep Fun Fact: Machhermo is famous for a yeti sighting in 1974.Whether you believe it or not, it's a great story to swap over dinner. hotelHotel: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 6.8km / 4.2 milesaltitude Highest Altitude: 4,470m / 14,665 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 7: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)
This is the moment your journey enters postcard territory.Today, you'll reach the sacred Gokyo Lakes, a cluster of six glacial-fed lakes sitting in a surreal alpine amphitheater, surrounded by peaks that scratch the sky. The trail follows a scenic incline to Lhafarma with views of Mt. Kangtega. You trek through alpine terrain and start climbing the rugged landscape of the Ngozumpa Glacier (Nepal's largest glacier).Further down the trail, you come across the first, second, and third Gokyo Lakes. The third lake, Dudh Pokhari, is the largest among the six Gokyo Lakes and sits beside the settlement of Gokyo. After lunch at Gokyo, you can explore toward the fourth, fifth, and sixth lakes that lie north of the settlement.Why This Day is Unforgettable: Your first full view of Mount Everest from the valley (weather permitting) The turquoise Gokyo Lake is unlike anything you've seen You're now in one of the highest freshwater lake systems in the world. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 7km / 4.3 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 4,790m / 15,715 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 8: Hike Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Trek to Machhermo
This might be the most rewarding day of your life. You'll climb Gokyo Ri, a rugged ridge that rises above the lakes and delivers what many trekkers say is the best panoramic view in the entire Everest region.Early Start: Begin around 4:30-5:00 AM to catch sunrise from the summit. The Climb: A steep, switchback climb on rocky terrain. Take your time with loose stones.The View: From the summit of Gokyo Ri, you'll be gifted with a 360-degree Himalayan skyline: Mount Everest (8,848.86m) Lhotse (8,516m) Makalu (8,485m) Cho Oyu (8,188m) Plus the shimmering Gokyo Lakes spread below like turquoise jewels.These aren't just mountains. They are giants, stacked across the sky.At 5,357 meters, you'll feel like you're floating above the world. Return: After soaking in the views and taking photos, descend back to Gokyo for a well-deserved breakfast.Then trek back down to Machhermo, where you'll spend the night at lower elevation for better acclimatization on the descent. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 3km ascent + 6.8km descent / 1.9 + 4.2 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 5,357m / 17,575 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 4-5 hours climb + 3-4 hours descent
Day 9: Trek from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
After breakfast, leave Machhermo and follow the trail back toward Namche Bazaar. You'll pass through Dole and continue toward Mong La (3,985m) for lunch.Pass multiple waterfalls as you make your way down toward Phortse Thenga before ascending toward Mong La. The trail from Mong La offers views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Mt. Lhotse as you make your way toward Namche Bazaar.After days in the high altitude, Namche will feel like a bustling metropolis. What to Do in Namche: Celebrate your Gokyo achievement with fellow trekkers Enjoy a hot shower (for a fee) Charge devices Stock up on snacks for the final push to Lukla. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 17km / 10.5 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 4,470m / 14,665 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 10: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m)
This day marks the final leg of your Gokyo Lakes Trek. You'll retrace your steps back to Lukla through the villages of Monjo and Benkar, stopping at Phakding for lunch.This offers the last chance to take in the natural and cultural beauty of the Everest region. The descent is long and tests your knees and balance, but the elevation drop means easier breathing. By late afternoon, you'll arrive in Lukla, where you started your mountain adventure. Evening in Lukla: Celebrate with your guide and porter team.This is traditionally when tips are given. Share stories, laugh about the tough moments, and toast to your achievement. hotelAccommodation: Tea-House (Twin Sharing)food_bankFood: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerdistanceTrek Distance: 18km / 11.1 milesaltitudeHighest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286 ftavg_timeTrek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 11: Flight from Lukla to Manthali and Drive to Kathmandu
Take an early flight back to Manthali Airport and drive back to Kathmandu.The flight from Lukla to Manthali offers one last look at how grand the Himalayas are. You were in between one of the valleys you see out of the window, and there are numerous similar valleys, mountains, rivers, and villages.That's why you'll have inspiration to come back to Nepal again to do another trek. Once in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel where you can enjoy a hot shower, comfortable bed, and maybe explore Thamel for souvenirs or a celebratory dinner. hotelHotel (Twin Sharing)food_bankBreakfast, DinnertransportationTransportation: 30 min flight + 4-5 hour drive
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu
After an unforgettable trek in Nepal, it's time to say goodbye to the land of the highest mountains. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home or your next adventure. food_bankBreakfast
Gears
Hygiene and Safety Essentials
Soap, toothpaste, high-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses (crucial for snow/lake glare), lip balm, and altitude medication.
Electronics & Navigation Essentials
Camera/smartphone, e-reader, power bank, map, and a headlamp.
Layered Clothing
Base Layer: Full thermal set (top and bottom). Mid Layer: Fleece jacket and insulated vest. Outer Layer: Waterproof/windproof shell jacket. Cold Essentials: Medium to heavy down jacket, beanie, and warm gloves.
Essential Trekking Gear
35L-45L backpack, trekking poles, -15°C sleeping bag, and waterproof trekking boots.
Media Gallery
1 images
7-Day Weather Forecast
Forecast for Everest Region. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
More Information On The Trek
Accommodation and MealsAccommodationAccommodation along the Gokyo Lake trek is cozy, simple, and surprisingly welcoming given the remote alpine setting. Most trekkers stay in traditional teahouses or family-run lodges scattered throughout the Gokyo Valley.What to Expect:Rooms: Usually twin-sharing, with basic beds, pillows, and blankets. Some lodges at lower altitudes offer private rooms with attached bathrooms.Common Areas: Dining halls with warm fireplaces where trekkers gather to eat, chat, and warm up.Gokyo Resort Options: In Gokyo village near the lakes, you'll find upgraded lodges with slightly more amenities and stunning views.Things to Note:The higher you go, the more basic the facilities becomeHot showers often come at an extra cost, especially above NamcheHeating is usually limited to the dining areaBooking in advance during peak season is recommendedMealsWhat's on the Menu:Dal Bhat: Lentils, rice, and vegetable curry (the most popular meal, often with free refills)Noodles, soups, pasta, and potatoes: Great carb-loaded options for energyTibetan bread, pancakes, and eggs: Common breakfast fareTea and coffee: Widely available (ginger or lemon honey tea are trekker favorites)Dietary Options:Vegetarian meals widely availableVegan options possible with advance noticeLimited gluten-free options (bring your own snacks if needed)Water:Avoid plastic bottlesFill reusable bottles with boiled water from teahousesUse water purification tablets, UV filters, or LifeStraw-type filtersTrek DifficultyThe Gokyo Lakes trek is considered moderate to challenging depending on your fitness level and trekking experience. While it doesn't involve technical climbing, the altitude, steep ascents (especially the climb to Gokyo Ri), and long walking days can make it demanding.Trek Difficulty BreakdownFactorLevelAltitudeHigh risk of AMS above 3,000mHighest PointGokyo Ri at 5,357m (17,575 ft)Total Trekking Days12 daysAverage Walking Time5-7 hours per dayTechnical SkillsNone requiredFitness LevelModerate to highWhat Makes It Challenging?High Altitude: You'll ascend steadily from Lukla (2,860m) to over 5,357m at Gokyo Ri, which is higher than Everest Base Camp. Most of the trek happens above 3,500 meters.Daily Walking Hours: Expect to walk 5-7 hours per day on mountainous terrain with a mix of gentle climbs, rocky staircases, suspension bridges, and glacier views.Elevation Gain: The cumulative altitude gain is significant, though gradual.Remote Location: The trail is less developed than the Everest Base Camp route. Services are basic and spread out.Who Can Do This Trek?Fit beginners who train ahead of time and acclimatize properlyRegular hikers looking for something quieter than Everest Base CampAltitude-savvy trekkers seeking off-the-beaten-path viewsThe trail is well-marked and safe, with no technical climbing involved, but the elevation gain is real and demands respect.Permits RequiredSagarmatha National Park Permit: NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25) for foreigners, NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationalsKhumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 15-17)If trekking via Jiri: Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit requiredHow Long Does the Trek Take?The standard Gokyo Lakes trek takes 12 days including arrival in Kathmandu and departure. The actual trekking days are 8-9 days, with 2 acclimatization days built in for safety.Trek Distance: Approximately 92 to 100 kilometers (57 to 62 miles) round tripDaily Breakdown:Lukla to Gokyo: Around 45-50 kilometersGokyo Ri ascent and descent: 2-4 kilometersReturn to Lukla: 45-50 kilometersThe trek can be shortened to 10 days or extended to 14 days depending on your schedule and acclimatization needs. It can also be combined with the Everest Base Camp trek via Cho La Pass for a longer adventure.Facilities on the TrekInternet & WiFiMany teahouses offer paid WiFi services, especially in Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Gokyo village. WiFi quality varies. In lower villages, it's usually reliable enough for messaging and light browsing. At higher altitudes, expect slow or unstable connections. Some lodges use Everest Link cards for WiFi, which you can purchase and top up along the route.Mobile NetworkNcell: Decent coverage up to Namche Bazaar but struggles at higher altitudes.Nepal Telecom (NTC): Better coverage in the upper Khumbu Valley, including areas around Gokyo Lake.Buy your SIM card in Kathmandu or Lukla and load it with data for backup.Drinking WaterSafe drinking water is available from teahouses. You can buy bottled water, but it's expensive and environmentally unfriendly. Better options:Fill reusable bottles with boiled water from teahouses (small fee)Use water purification tabletsUse UV filters or LifeStraw-type filtersAim to drink 3-4 liters of water daily to combat altitude effects.Charging FacilitiesPower banks are essential. Charging outlets are available at teahouses, but you'll likely need to pay per hour or per device at higher elevations (USD 2-5). Some lodges rely on solar power, especially above Dole, so charging access may be limited in cloudy weather.TransportationTo Lukla: Scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap (during peak season). Flight duration is 20-30 minutes.During Trek: All movement is on foot. No vehicles beyond Lukla.From Lukla: Return flight to Kathmandu or Ramechhap, then drive to Kathmandu.ToiletsExpect squat toilets at most teahouses. Western toilets are available at some larger lodges (like in Namche or Gokyo village). Toilet paper is rarely provided, so bring your own. Hand sanitizer is essential.Altitude SicknessWhat Is Altitude Sickness?Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitude too quickly without giving your body time to adjust to lower oxygen levels. It can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level.When Does It Occur?AMS typically occurs above 2,500-3,000 meters. On the Gokyo Lakes trek, you'll be at risk starting from Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and increasingly so as you ascend to Gokyo (4,790m) and Gokyo Ri (5,357m).SymptomsMild AMS:HeadacheNausea or loss of appetiteDizzinessFatigueDifficulty sleepingSevere AMS (HAPE/HACE):Shortness of breath at restSevere headacheLoss of coordination (ataxia)Confusion or altered mental stateFluid in lungs or brain (medical emergency)PreventionGradual Ascent: Follow the itinerary with built-in acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Machhermo.Climb High, Sleep Low: Take short hikes to higher altitudes during the day and return to lower elevation to sleep.Stay Hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Dehydration increases AMS risk.Avoid Alcohol: No alcohol or sleeping pills at high altitude.Eat Well: Maintain energy with carb-rich meals like dal bhat.Medications: Diamox (Acetazolamide) can aid acclimatization. Consult your doctor before use.How Nepal Visuals Manages ItOur experienced guides are trained to:Monitor your health using pulse oximeters twice dailyRecognize early AMS symptomsMake informed decisions about acclimatization and restArrange immediate descent or evacuation if neededEmergency Response: Helicopter evacuations are available from Gokyo Valley, Machhermo, or Dole. Travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation is mandatory.What to Do If You Have SymptomsMild symptoms: Rest, hydrate, inform your guide.Worsening symptoms: Stop ascending. Stay at current altitude or descend.Severe symptoms: Descend immediately and seek medical help.Altitude sickness is serious but preventable with proper acclimatization and awareness. Listen to your body and don't push beyond your limits.Booking ProcedureStep-by-Step Process1. Inquiry Contact us via WhatsApp, email, or our website form. Let us know your preferred dates, group size, and any special requirements.2. Consultation We'll discuss the trek details, answer your questions, and provide a customized itinerary and quote.3. Confirmation Once you're ready, we'll send a booking confirmation form and invoice.4. Payment Pay a 30% deposit to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due before or upon arrival in Kathmandu. We accept bank transfers and credit/debit cards.5. Pre-Departure Briefing We'll provide a detailed online trip briefing covering:Trek itinerary and what to expect each dayPacking list and gear recommendationsPermit requirements and documentationHealth and safety guidelinesContact information for emergencies6. Arrival in Kathmandu Our representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. You'll meet your guide for a final briefing and gear check.What's Included in Your BookingAirport pickup and dropHotel accommodation in KathmanduDomestic flights (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu)All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)Government-certified English-speaking guidePorter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, 10kg limit per trekker)All trekking permits and feesFirst aid kit and oximeterDuffel bag and trekking polesTrek completion certificateFlexible Cancellation PolicyLife happens. We understand. Our cancellation policy is:30+ days before departure: Full refund minus 10% admin fee15-29 days: 50% refundLess than 15 days: No refund, but you can reschedule within 12 monthsEmergency cancellations due to medical reasons may be eligible for full refund with documentation.DeparturesFixed Group DeparturesWe offer fixed departure dates throughout the year during spring and autumn seasons. Check our booking calendar for available dates.Private DeparturesAvailable year-round. You can choose your own dates and trek with your own group. Minimum 2 people required for private departures.Seasonal AvailabilityPeak Season (March-May, September-November): High demand. Book early to secure lodges and flights.Off-Season (December-February, June-August): Fewer crowds, but weather challenges. Limited tea house availability at higher altitudes in winter.Note on Lukla FlightsDuring peak seasons (March-May, October-November), Lukla flights depart from Ramechhap (Manthali) instead of Kathmandu due to air traffic. This requires a midnight departure from Kathmandu and a 5-hour drive to catch the early flight.Always build 2-3 buffer days into your schedule to account for potential flight delays.Trek MapRoute OverviewThe Gokyo Lakes trek follows a well-established trail through the Khumbu Valley, branching off from the classic Everest Base Camp route at Namche Bazaar.Key Route Points:Lukla (2,860m) → Phakding (2,610m) → Namche Bazaar (3,440m)Namche → Dole (4,038m) → Machhermo (4,470m) → Gokyo (4,790m)Gokyo → Gokyo Ri (5,357m) summit → Return via same routeAltitude ProfileThe trek follows a gradual ascent pattern with strategic acclimatization stops:Day 2: Lukla (2,860m) to Phakding (2,610m) - slight descentDay 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) - gain 830mDay 4: Acclimatization day (hike to 3,880m)Day 5: Namche to Dole (4,038m) - gain 598mDay 6: Dole to Machhermo (4,470m) - gain 432mDay 7: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m) - gain 320mDay 8: Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) - gain 567m, then descendAcclimatization Points:Namche Bazaar (3,440m): First major acclimatization stopMachhermo (4,470m): Optional second acclimatization dayGokyo (4,790m): Rest before Gokyo Ri ascentThe map shows daily elevation changes and helps you visualize the gradual ascent pattern that's crucial for safe acclimatization.
What Our Trekkers Say
Average rating: 5 | 3 reviews
By Aakash Patel | 3 months ago | Rating 5
We had a great experience on the Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Visuals. Our guide Rupesh was very knowledgeable and patient with our many questions and many, many photo sessions during the trek. Resh, the CEO, was responsive and did a great job of taking care of our needs the entire time we were in Nepal. Wonderful experience overall, I would definitely book another trek with Nepal Visuals again.
By Deepak Patel | 4 months ago | Rating 5
“Nepal Visuals” planned the whole Everest Base Camp trek very well, they were always in control of different situations & the guide was very helpful, calm & explaining everything in detail. Resh was very prompt in answering all our questions before trek & took very good care of our family upon arrival in Kathmandu till we left. We recommend Nepal Visuals to all our friends & will definitely use them when we plan our Annapurna trek.
By laura perez | 4 months ago | Rating 5
From Cañete, Chile to the Magic of Everest Base Camp with Nepal Visual The dream of reaching Everest Base Camp came true for Luis and Laura, as we departed from Cañete, Chile, on September 30, 2025. After the journey, we landed in Kathmandu on October 2, where the warmth of our guide, Prim, welcomed us. The next day, our epic trek began. Before writing these lines, I reviewed the logistics that Nepal Visual had proposed for the trip; I must confess that they far exceeded our expectations. Everything went perfectly, demonstrating a level of professionalism and attention to detail that allowed us to focus solely on the beauty of the mountain and the experience. They took care of everything. Jepe (as Prim called the boss, warm and friendly), Prim, our guide in Spanish, did everything to make us feel good. He didn't have faith in us when he saw us, but later recognized how strong we were. Ram, our porter, a strong man with his smile and humility, and Rajat, who showed us the well-documented history of his capital, KMD. At the Capital Boutique Hotel, the receptionists, Anupama and Devendra, surprised us one morning by greeting us in Spanish. Our sincere congratulations and admiration to everyone for their work, "A Whole Team." Nepal Visual's service makes this magical: safe trekking, hotels, sufficient food, assistance with souvenir shopping, soaking up the culture, its spirituality, and connectivity. We recommend Nepal Visual to anyone looking for an unforgettable, magical, and, above all, hassle-free experience at Base Camp. They are a true team who put their heart and soul into their service and speak Spanish to the best of their ability. Nepal is also very safe. Thank you, Nepal Visual, you truly are a team. A total thank you!!! Signed: Laura and Luis. (From Cañete, Biobío Region, Chile)
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