Gokyo Lakes and Ri Trek | Gokyo Lakes Trek - 12 Days
12 Days
5357m
Mar-May & Sep-Nov
Lukla
Hotel & Tea-House
B/L/D during trek
Tourist Bus & Flight to Lukla
Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m)
Day 2: Morning drive to Manthali for the flight to Lukla (2860m) and Trek to Phakding (2610m) – 3/4 hour hike
Day 3: Trek from Phakding (2610m) to Namche Bazaar (3440m) - 5/6 hour hike
Day 4: Hike to Everest View Hotel/Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazar
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazar to Dole
Day 6: Trek from Dole to Machhermo
Day 7: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo Lakes
Day 8: Trek from Gokyo to Dole
Day 9: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazar
Day 10: Trek from Namche Bazar to Lukla
Day 11: Flight from Lukla to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu
Cost Includes
Cost Excludes
Gokyo Lakes & Ri Trek Map & Route

Booking
Traveller's Review
Incredible experience
I recently went on an incredible trek to Nepal with Nepal Visuals, and the experience was outstanding. The team took care of every detail, making the trip smooth and stress-free. A highlight was the unforgettable birthday celebration they organized for my husband at Everest Base Camp—such a thoughtful and magical touch! Our guide Prakash and helper Kiran were amazing, ensuring we felt safe, supported, and enriched by the local culture throughout the journey. I highly recommend Nepal Visuals for anyone seeking a personalized and unforgettable adventure in Nepal.

EBC Trek, November 2024
In November 2024, I had the opportunity to make use of Nepal Visuals to plan a trek to Everest Base Camp. Communication was great with the planning, accommodation, itinerary and trek information before I left. When I arrived I was met by the team in Kathmandu and they really did a great job in looking after me, including a welcome dinner and briefing session. They had everything arranged, including the flights to Lukla and back, as well as a really experienced, English speaking guide and a friendly capable porter. The trek went without a hitch, teahouse accommodation and 3 meals a day were provided. There seem to be hundreds of trekking and expedition companies in Nepal, however, I would be careful to do your research and make sure you choose a experienced company like Nepal Visuals. I will definitely be back to do another trek soon and would have no hesitation to make use of them again. Thank you Nepal Visuals for the fun, memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gokyo Lakes trek harder than Everest Base Camp?
Not necessarily harder, just different. Gokyo has fewer steep ups and downs than the EBC trail, but the altitude is slightly higher at Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) compared to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). It’s also less crowded, which many trekkers prefer.
Tip: Gokyo is ideal if you want amazing views without the Everest Base Camp crowds.
What’s the cost of the Gokyo Lake trek?
Typical packages range from $1,100 to $1,800 USD, depending on group size, services, and trek duration. This includes flights to Lukla, guide/porter, meals, and accommodation.
Is the Gokyo Lakes Trek suitable for beginners?
If you're in good physical condition, yes. No prior trekking experience is needed, but some preparation and training(especially for altitude) is essential. Hiring a guide helps first-timers feel more confident and safe.
What is the weather like during the trek?
Spring (Mar–May): 5°C to 15°C daytime, colder at night
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, 0°C to 12°C daytime
Winter (Dec–Feb): Sub-zero temperatures, possible snow
Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Wet, slippery trails, cloud cover
Tip: Weather can shift fast—bring layered gear and check forecasts daily.
What permits do I need for the Gokyo trek?
You will need two main permits:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – NPR 3,000
Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit – NPR 2,000
If trekking via Jiri, add the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit – NPR 3,000.
If you're trekking with a company, these are usually handled for you.
How many days is the Gokyo Lakes trek?
The standard Gokyo Lake trek itinerary is 12 days including travel days. It can be shortened or extended, especially if you combine it with Everest Base Camp or Renjo/Cho La passes.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The summit of Gokyo Ri is the highest point at 5,483 meters (17,989 feet), offering panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
Can I see Mount Everest from Gokyo Ri?
Yes! In fact, Gokyo Ri Nepal is one of the best viewpoints of Mount Everest, with an unobstructed 360° Himalayan panorama.
How reliable are Lukla flights?
Lukla airport in Nepal is famous, and not just for its short runway. Weather can delay or cancel flights, especially during monsoon or winter. Always plan an extra day or two in Kathmandu just in case.
Is there Wi-Fi and phone signal on the trek?
Yes, but it’s limited. Many tea houses offer Everest Link Wi-Fi cards. NCell and NTC have patchy coverage up to Machhermo, less so in Gokyo itself. It’s best to download offline maps and let family know you'll be off-grid at times.
What is the food like?
Delicious and carb-loaded! Expect dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, Tibetan bread, and surprisingly good pancakes. Gokyo has bakeries and even coffee shops, but prices rise with altitude.
What should I pack for the Gokyo Lakes trek?
Essentials include:
A down jacket and thermal layers
Good hiking boots
Trekking poles
A -10°C sleeping bag
Water purification system
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Pro Tip: Layered clothing is key for the changing temperatures
Can I swim in Gokyo Lake?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended due to the freezing temperature and high altitude. The lakes are sacred, and locals discourage swimming out of respect.
What wildlife might I see?
The trail passes through Sagarmatha National Park, home to Musk deer, Himalayan tahr, Snow leopards (rare) and Himalayan monal (Nepal’s national bird) You’ll also spot yaks, especially near Gokyo resort and higher villages.
Can I combine this with Everest Base Camp or Three Passes?
Absolutely. The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes trek via Cho La Pass is a popular combo route. For serious trekkers, the Three Passes Trek (Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La) includes Gokyo and EBC in a loop.
What makes the Gokyo Lakes special?
They’re the world’s highest freshwater lake system
- Listed as a UNESCO Ramsar site
- Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists
- Fed by glaciers, including Ngozumpa Glacier Their vivid turquoise color and cultural value make them truly unique among all lakes in Himalaya
Can I rent gear in Kathmandu?
Yes! Thamel in Kathmandu has many rental shops offering jackets, sleeping bags, poles, and boots. Just make sure to check for quality and hygiene before renting.
What are the toilet and shower facilities like?
Expect squat toilets at most teahouses. Western toilets are available at some larger lodges (like in Namche or Gokyo). Hot showers are usually solar-powered and cost extra (USD 3–5).
Do I need travel insurance for this trek?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory, especially one that covers emergency helicopter evacuation above 5,000 m, trip cancellation, and medical coverage. Ask your insurer specifically about high-altitude trekking.
Will I have access to electricity to charge devices?
Yes, but limited. Most teahouses have solar charging (small fee). Bring a power bank or solar charger and keep electronics warm to preserve battery life.
What kind of camera or phone should I bring?
A good smartphone is often enough. For photographers, a mirrorless or DSLR with a polarizing filter can capture the intense lake blues and snowy peaks. Bring extra batteries—cold drains power fast.
Are the Gokyo Lakes religiously significant?
Yes. These are sacred lakes in Nepal, believed to be holy by both Hindus and Buddhists. Local pilgrims often bathe in them during the Janai Purnima festival in August. Please respect these sacred spaces.
Can I do this trek solo?
Technically yes, but hiring a licensed guide is strongly recommended (and may become mandatory depending on policy). They help with logistics, safety, cultural insights, and emergencies.
What is the Gokyo Lake Trek?
A scenic trek in the Everest region of Nepal, known for turquoise glacial lakes, Gokyo Ri viewpoint, and panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and other peaks.
What is the altitude of Gokyo Ri?
Gokyo Ri sits at an elevation of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet).
What are the main attractions of the Gokyo Lake Trek?
The five Gokyo Lakes, panoramic Himalayan views from Gokyo Ri, Ngozumpa Glacier (Nepal’s largest glacier), and a quieter alternative to the classic EBC route.
Do I need a guide for the Gokyo Lake Trek?
No, but a guide is recommended for safety, navigation, and local insight, especially after the Nepal government made guides mandatory in many trekking regions.
What fitness level is required for the Gokyo Lake Trek?
Moderate to high fitness is required. Daily hikes can be challenging due to altitude and terrain.
What type of accommodation is available?
Tea houses and lodges offering basic but comfortable lodging and local meals.
Can the trek be customized?
Yes, the itinerary can be customized based on your time, fitness, and preferences.
How much time should be allocated for acclimatization?
At least 2 acclimatization days are recommended to prevent altitude sickness.
What are the alternative routes for the Gokyo Lake Trek?
- Gokyo via Renjo La Pass
- Gokyo combined with Everest Base Camp
- Three Passes Trek (Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La)
How many hours will I trek each day?
You’ll typically trek 5 to 7 hours per day depending on altitude and trail difficulty.
What is included in the trek cost?
Usually includes permits, guide/porter fees, meals, accommodation, domestic flights, and transportation.
Are there any additional costs to consider?
Yes, WiFi, hot showers, battery charging, snacks, tipping, and personal gear rental.
How much should I tip the guide and porter?
Typically 10% of the trek cost, split between the guide and porter.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
Yes, especially above 3,000m. Acclimatization and hydration are key.
How can I prevent altitude sickness?
Ascend gradually, take rest days, stay hydrated, eat well, and avoid alcohol.
What should I do in case of altitude sickness?
Descend immediately, rest, hydrate. In severe cases, seek medical help or evacuation.
Are there medical facilities along the trek?
Limited. Basic care is available in larger villages like Namche. Helicopter evacuation is possible in emergencies.
How can I stay warm at high altitudes?
Layer clothing, use thermal wear, a good sleeping bag, insulated jackets, and avoid sweating.