Do you know that the Gokyo Lake Trek is the most beautiful trekking trip to do inside Khumbu region of Nepal? Yes, a blue turquoise lake mirroring an image of snowy mountain and a pleasant village on its shores is definitely a sight to behold. Nowadays, lots of people are trekking in this trekking route including lots of Nepalese trekkers. The trekking trail up to Gokyo Lake is also diverse in terms of vegetation and topography. Relish the chance to spend a tranquil and serene time up in the shores of Himalayan Lake!
How many lakes are there in Gokyo Lake System?
There are 5 lakes in the Gokyo Lake System. These lakes are listed under the Ramsar Conservation Area. It is believed that all these lakes are connected and water flows through underground channel. The major lake is the Third Lake where trekkers spend overnight while doing the Gokyo Lake Trek. The lake is sacred to Sherpa people and every year people offer prayers in the lake. The people of the region believe that if you pray in the lake then all souls of departed loved ones will get relieved from all their earthly sins!
Itinerary of Gokyo Lake Trek
The itinerary of Gokyo Lake Trekking in Nepal is similar to Everest Base Camp Trek up to Namche Bazaar including acclimatization break.
Namche Bazaar to Dole
The most joyous section of Gokyo Valley Trek is while trekking from Namche Bazaar to Dole. Trekkers leave the Everest Base Camp trekking route in Kyangjuma. The EBC trail goes downhill while the Gokyo Lake Trek trail heads uphill to Mongla Danda. The scenery of an entire valley looks spectacular from Mongla Danda. Trekkers trek downhill to Phortse Thanga and do gentle uphill hike to Dole. The trail traverses through green lush forests and waterfalls. The sound of birds and raging river welcome trekkers.
How to reach Everest Gokyo Lake?
Following the narrow ridge line trail trekkers reach Machhermo. After about 4 to 5 hours of walking, trekkers reach the beautiful Lake Valley of Gokyo. As you walk towards Gokyo, the sight of Mt. Choyou in the far distance will definitely entice you. It seems as if Mt. Choyou is waiting for you to come and hug you with its arms open! You will have trek through shores of first and second lake to reach Gokyo Lake which is the 3rd lake out of five lakes of the region. A small village with few tea houses, blue turquoise lake, and guardianship of Gokyo ri is the major highlight of this trip.
Gokyo Ri (5357 m)
The sunrise or sunset from the top of Gokyo Ri is spectacular. As the sun kisses the tip of snowy mountains, trekkers can get the splendid moment of magic! The sight of lake and an entire Khumbu region is so satisfying. Relish the panoramic 360-degree view of mountains. You can get glimpses of 4 mountains which are in the top ten tallest mountain of the world. They are Lhotse, Choyou, Makalu, and Everest.
The Mountain Watch Trek is an expert trekking agency for Everest region’s trekking activities. Therefore, our way of exploring the place is unmatched. In our trekking itinerary of Gokyo Lake Trek, trekkers can hike up to Fifth Gokyo Lake. The sight of different side of Mt. Everest makes this hike marvelous.
Ice Skating festival of Gokyo
Every year on the shores of Gokyo Lake ice skating festival is organized. Nowadays, they organize ice hockey tournament too. Therefore, if you love ice skating then contact our travel planners to plan your trek to Gokyo during this time of the year. The dates are always changed every year. We will inform skaters about the dates and you can plan your trip accordingly. Skating at an altitude of 4900 m overlooking massive snowy mountains is undoubtedly the craziest adventure activity to do at least once in a lifetime.
Can I reach Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lake?
It is possible to reach Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lake by crossing the Chola pass and meeting Everest Base Camp Trek route in Lobuche. However, this package doesn’t include Everest Base Camp in its itinerary. Please check our EBC Chola Pass Trek that includes Gokyo Lake exploration as well. At an affordable rate, trekkers can get an amazing chance to visit beautiful Gokyo Valley, cross Chola Pass, and visit Everest Base Camp.
Meals and Accommodation
Nowadays, you can find very good resorts in Gokyo. The community has built amazing resorts and tea houses in the village. On the way to Gokyo, trekkers can find lots of commercial tea houses, lodges, and eateries where you can get comfortable warm rooms and meals of different choices. Lodging in Dole and Machhermo is basic as there are few tea houses and lodges. Meal choices range from local Nepalese cuisine to international dishes. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about lodging and food while trekking in any trekking routes of Everest region of Nepal.
Best Season to trek
The best season to trek is during months of spring (March, April, & May) and autumn (September, October, & November). Among these two seasons spring season is an ideal time to do Gokyo Lake Trek in Nepal. During this time of the year skies are clear and temperature is warm. Moreover, the trekking route leading up to Gokyo Valley is through green lush forests of rhododendron. In spring season, the forest blooms with different colors of rhododendron.
Things to know before Gokyo Valley Trek?
The difficulty level of Gokyo Valley Trek in Nepal is fairly moderate. There are no long uphill vertical climbs during the trek. The major hurdle is high altitude as trekkers have to spend overnight at an altitude of 4900 m and maximum altitude, they reach is 5357 m. In order to be safe, you must get the travel insurance with plan that includes helicopter evacuation too. Always respect the local culture and traditions. Book the trekking package with a reliable trekking agency.
At an affordable rate, Mountain Watch Trek presents you an amazing trekking trip to Gokyo Valley of Everest region.
Details Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Day 2: Flight to Lukla 30 minutes and Trek to Phakding (2610m.) 4 hour
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m) 5 hours
Day 4: Acclimatization and Hike to Everest View Hotel (3800m) 3 hours
Day 5: Trek to Dole (4038m) 5-6 hours
Day 6: Trek to Machhermo (4470m.) 4-5 hours
Day 7: Trek to Gokyo Lake (4700m) 4 hours
Day 8: Gokyo Ri Hike; Fifth Lake Hike (5000.) 5-6 hours
Day 9: Trek to Machhermo (4470m.) 4-5 hours
Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m) 5 hours
Day 11: Trek to Lukla (2860m) 6-7 hours
Day 12: Flight to Kathmandu, 30 minutes
Day 13: Final International Departure
Day 1: Arrival
Meet our airport representative in the International Airport in Kathmandu. You will be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu mainly in Thamel or any hotel agreed for the trekking package. All the trip details will be finalized and you will be introduced to our trekking guide. You will be given the welcome dinner in the Nepalese cultural restaurant. Overnight in a hotel
Day 2: Flight to Lukla; Trek to Phakding
Early in the morning, we will reach the domestic airport of Kathmandu for the flight to Lukla. The Lukla flight is about 35 minutes from Kathmandu. During the peak season the flight doesn’t take place directly from Kathmandu to Lukla. In order to maintain the air traffic, the flight takes place from Manthali Airport Ramechhap. We will have to drive about 4 to 5 hours to reach the Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. Upon arriving in Lukla, you will meet the rest of the crew members like porter and Sherpa for the trekking as per the trekking agreement. After a brief coffee or tea break in Lukla, we will continue our trekking towards the village of Phakding. We will have to buy the Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit in Lukla before starting the trek. Today we will be walking through terraced farmlands, small hamlets, green lush forests and cross few suspension bridges. There are many chortens and pagodas along the way. We will continue walking spinning the Mane Wheels and reach Phakding which is located on the banks of Dudhkoshi River. Overnight in a tea house
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar
We will begin our trekking after breakfast. Today is the longest day of the trekking as we will have to walk along the banks of Dudhkoshi River crossing several suspension bridges. The trekking trail is on a gentle flat terrain until we reach the Hillary Twin Suspension Bridge. Before reaching this place, we will enter the Sagarmatha National Park near Monjo. We will get our National Park permit in the entry gate. The crossing of the twin bridge over the Imja River is enticing as well as adventurous. Nowadays, you can also do the bungee jump from the lower bridge and it is equally fascinating. Some trekkers do this adventurous activity while descending down after reaching the Everest Base Camp. The trekking trail from this bridge is uphill all the way to Namche Bazaar. The first sight of the Mt. Everest is also possible on this day. Few meters before reaching the Namche Bazaar you can see the glorious view of the mountain but it depends upon the type of the weather condition. If it is a clear day then this is the first time that you will see the Everest. Namche Bazaar is beautifully situated in a hill. It is horse shoe shaped town and you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of mountains like Thamserku and Kwangde. You can visit the marketplace in the evening after checking in at the tea house. Overnight in a tea house
Day 4: Acclimatization; Everest View Hotel Hike
If you are on any high altitude trekking then you must not skip the acclimatization activity. The first acclimatization activity during the Everest Base Camp Trek takes place today. We will start our hike to the Everest View Hotel after breakfast in our tea house. Before heading to the Everest View Hotel, we will also visit the climbing memorial park in the top of the Namche Bazaar. We will get the breathtaking scenery of the mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Tabuche, Amadablam, Thamserku, Kwangde, etc. from this memorial park. It is indeed the best way to start this acclimatization hike. We will then continue walking uphill to the Everest View Hotel. In the hotel we will enjoy the sip of coffee and get enchanted by the landscape of an abode of the world’s tallest mountain Mt. Everest. After spending about an hour, we will descend back to Namche Bazaar and rest. You can stroll around the market as well and relax your body. Overnight in a tea house
Day 5: Trek to Dole
We will follow the Everest Base Camp Trek route until we reach the village of Kyangjuma. The route to Gokyo takes left turn uphill to Mongla Danda instead of downhill to Phungi Thanga. We will have to walk downhill through green lush forests to Phortse Thanga from Mongla Danda. The trail starts to get narrow up until we reach the small village of Dole.
Day 6: Trek to Machhermo
We will walk on the narrow river valley in a small ridge line overlooking beautiful mountains on either sides. The location of Machhermo Village is on the foothill of the gigantic hills on left and teeth like mountains on the right. Overnight in a tea house
Day 7: Trek to Gokyo Lake
Finally, we will reach the Gokyo Lake today. In our entire trip, we will be blessed by the stunning scenery of Mt. Choyou. We will explore the 1st and 2nd Gokyo Lakes before reaching the Gokyo Lake. It is so amazing place to spend overnight as it is located at the shores of the blue turquoise lake. Overnight in a tea house
Day 8: Gokyo Ri Hike; Fifth Lake Hike
Early in the morning about 4 or 5 am we will begin our hike to the top of the Gokyo Ri. You can get outstanding scenery of mountains (Choyou, Makalu, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc.) from the top of the hill. Additionally, the landscape seen from the top is worthy to be called as the paradise especially the sight of the Gokyo Lake and village. After returning back to tea house, we will start the hike to Fifth Lake after breakfast. Overnight in a tea house
Day 9: Trek to Machhermo
We will retrace the same trail back to Dole with lunch stop at Machhermo Village. Overnight in a tea house
Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar
We will walk through green lush forests and uphill trail up to Mongla Danda nearby Kyangjuma where we will meet the Everest Base Camp Trek route. You can rest and enjoy in the Namche Bazaar! Overnight in a tea house
Day 11: Trek to Lukla
After breakfast, we will retrace the same trail back to Lukla via Monjo Sagarmatha National Park and Phakding. In the evening, we will enjoy with our trekking crew members after the successful trekking to the Everest Base Camp. Overnight in a tea house
Day 12: Flight to Kathmandu
We will board the flight and return back to Kathmandu. In the evening the agency will host the farewell dinner and review the trekking trip together. Overnight in a Hotel
Day 13: Departure
Your trekking guide or the agency representative will take you to the airport for the final departure. We will bid farewell promising to meet again for future trekking trips in Nepal.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport Transfers – Pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Accommodation in Kathmandu – 2-3 nights in a standard hotel (twin-sharing, with breakfast)
- Domestic Flights – Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu (including airport taxes)
- Trekking Permits – Sagarmatha National Park Permit & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
- Accommodation during Trek – Teahouse/lodge stays along the route (twin-sharing)
- Meals on Trek – Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (including tea/coffee)
- Professional Guide & Porters – English-speaking trekking guide and porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
- Guide/Porter Salary & Insurance – Includes wages, meals, accommodation, and insurance for staff
- First Aid Kit – Carried by the guide (basic first aid supplies)
G
overnment Taxes & Service Charges – All necessary local and national government fees - Trekking Map – For reference during the trek
Cost Includes
- International Flights – To and from Kathmandu
- Nepal Visa Fees – Can be obtained on arrival
- Meals in Kathmandu – Lunch and dinner not included
- Personal Trekking Gear – Sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, etc. (can be rented in Kathmandu)
- Travel Insurance – Mandatory (must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Drinks & Snacks – Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and personal snacks
- WiFi, Hot Showers & Charging Fees – Available at extra cost in teahouses
- Tips for Guide & Porters – Customary but not mandatory
- Extra Costs Due to Delays – Flight cancellations, landslides, strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances
- Optional Activities in Kathmandu – Sightseeing, cultural tours, or adventure activities
FAQ
Route Map
Client Reviews
Zhang Wei
USA: 22/Jan/2025
Kathy Selli
Canada: 25/Jan/2025
An Unforgettable Adventure to Annapurna Base Camp
I recently completed the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, and it was nothing short of spectacular! From start to finish, the experience exceeded all expectations.
The trek takes you through such a diverse range of landscapes—starting with lush forests, quaint villages, and terraced fields, and ascending to breathtaking alpine vistas surrounded by towering peaks. Every day offered something new and awe-inspiring.
The highlight, of course, was reaching the base camp itself at 4,130m. Standing amidst the majestic Annapurna range with the sunrise lighting up the peaks was an emotional and humbling experience. It felt like stepping into another world.
Our guides and porters were incredible—knowledgeable, friendly, and always ensuring we were safe and comfortable. They shared stories about the region, explained cultural nuances, and even taught us a few Nepali phrases. The teahouses along the trail were cozy, offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers.
While the trek is challenging at times, especially with the uphill climbs and altitude, it’s entirely doable with proper preparation and pacing. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of personal achievement.
I’ll carry the memories of this trek with me forever and can’t wait to return to the Himalayas for another adventure. If you’re considering the Annapurna Base Camp trek—do it. You won’t regret it!
John Marta
Australia: 19/Mar/2025
Lantang Trekking in Nepal
The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal, and my journey with Mountain Watch Trek made it even more special. From the breathtaking landscapes to the warm hospitality of the locals, every moment of this adventure was unforgettable.
The Langtang Trek with Mountain Watch Trek was an incredible experience. The combination of stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and excellent service made this journey truly unforgettable. If you’re looking for a short yet rewarding trek in Nepal, I highly recommend the Langtang Valley Trek with Mountain Watch Trek!
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