| Trip code | |
| Package name | Gokyo Lakes Trek |
| Duration | 13 |
| Max. elevation | 5357 m |
| Level | Difficult |
| Transportation | Airplane (Kathmandu to Lukla), Walking, Bus/Private Vehicle (Kathmandu transfers) |
| Accomodation | 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu, Tea Houses during trekking |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding - Namche Bazaar - Dole - Machhermo - Gokyo - Gokyo Ri - Renjo La Pass - Lungdhen - Thame - Namche Bazaar - Lukla - Kathmandu |
| Cost | USD 1,800 per person |
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant city of Kathmandu. Visit the bustling Thamel district, where you can enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural sites. In the evening, there will be a briefing about the trek where you'll meet your guide and fellow trekkers. Ensure you get a good night's rest to prepare for the adventure ahead.
Early in the morning, you will catch a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, you will meet your trekking crew and begin the trek to Phakding. The trail is relatively easy and follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through small villages and lush forests. After a few hours of trekking, you will reach Phakding, where you will stay overnight in a teahouse. Use the remainder of the day to relax and acclimate to the altitude.
Today's trek is more challenging as you make your way to the bustling market town of Namche Bazaar. The trail crosses several suspension bridges and passes through pine forests. As you ascend, you will get your first glimpse of Everest and other Himalayan peaks. After a steep climb, you will arrive in Namche Bazaar, a vibrant hub of Sherpa culture and a crucial acclimatization stop. Spend the evening exploring the town or visiting the local market.
To help your body adjust to the higher altitude, you will spend an extra day in Namche Bazaar. There are several options for acclimatization hikes, such as visiting the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You can also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and the Namche Monastery. The day is intended for rest and acclimatization, so take it easy and drink plenty of water.
Leaving Namche Bazaar behind, the trail ascends steeply out of the town before flattening out as you trek towards the villages of Kyangjuma and Mong La. The path offers spectacular views of Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. After crossing the Mong La Pass, the trail descends to the Dudh Koshi River and then climbs again through rhododendron and pine forests to reach Dole. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in this tranquil village.
Today's trek involves a steady climb, passing through beautiful landscapes dotted with summer settlements where yaks graze. The trail offers magnificent views of Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world, and passes through the charming village of Luza. Continuing along the trail, you will eventually arrive in Machhermo, a small village nestled in the valley. Spend the night in a teahouse, resting and preparing for higher altitudes.
Ascending from Machhermo, the trail becomes steeper as you approach the Gokyo Valley. You will pass through the village of Pangka and continue up the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Along the way, you will see the first of the stunning Gokyo Lakes. As you trek further, the turquoise waters of the other lakes come into view, culminating in your arrival at Gokyo village, situated by the third lake. Spend the night in a teahouse, marveling at the serene beauty of the lakes.
Today is reserved for acclimatization and exploration around Gokyo. One of the highlights is the optional hike to Gokyo Ri, a peak that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The climb is steep but rewarding. After descending, you can explore the other Gokyo Lakes or simply relax in the village, taking in the serene and otherworldly scenery.
After a restful night, you will begin your descent from Gokyo to Dole. Retracing your steps along the scenic path, you will enjoy different perspectives of the mountains and valleys. The descent is easier, allowing you to savor the landscape and perhaps spot wildlife such as the Himalayan Tahr and various birds. Arriving in Dole, you will spend the night in a teahouse, reflecting on the beauty of the trek.
Continuing the descent, the trail leads back to Namche Bazaar. The path takes you through familiar villages and forests, offering a sense of accomplishment as you return to the lively town. Upon arrival in Namche, you can take advantage of the amenities in the town, perhaps enjoying a hot shower or purchasing souvenirs. Spend the night in Namche Bazaar, resting before the final leg of your journey.
The final day of trekking takes you from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. The trail descends steeply at first, then continues more gently along the Dudh Koshi River. The route retraces the path you took at the beginning of the trek, passing through Phakding and other villages. Upon reaching Lukla, you can celebrate the completion of your trek with your guides and fellow trekkers. Spend the night in a teahouse, preparing for your flight back to Kathmandu.
In the morning, you will catch a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, enjoying the aerial views of the mountains one last time. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax. In the evening, you can enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking group, celebrating the successful completion of the Gokyo Lakes Trek.
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for additional sightseeing or shopping in Kathmandu. You will then be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your incredible journey through the Himalayas. As you leave Nepal, you will carry with you unforgettable memories of the stunning landscapes and the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people.