Gokyo Lakes Trek
A spectacularly scenic alternative to EBC, featuring vibrant turquoise lakes.
Overview
The Gokyo Lakes Trek is widely celebrated as a phenomenal, visually striking alternative to the traditional, heavily trafficked Everest Base Camp route. It offers equally spectacular panoramic mountain views but with significantly fewer crowds.
The epic journey begins with a heart-pounding flight to Lukla and follows the classic Everest trail to Namche Bazaar. From there, the route diverges sharply, heading up the quieter Dudh Koshi valley.
Read full trip description
The undisputed highlight of this remarkable 13-day trek is the dazzling string of six pristine, deeply turquoise glacial lakes nestled flawlessly in the serene Gokyo Valley.
You will trek directly alongside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, officially the largest glacier in the entire Himalayas.
Climbing the steep slopes of Gokyo Ri (5,357m) provides what many consider to be the single best panoramic viewpoint in the entire Everest region. From this rocky summit, you can clearly see four staggering 8,000-meter peaks simultaneously: Cho Oyu, the mighty Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, all standing proudly together.
Trip Highlights
Cost Includes
- Flights
- Guide
- Meals
Cost Excludes
- International flights
- Insurance
Itinerary
Click on a day to expand details
Day 1Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport
Day 2Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
Day 3Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding
Day 4Namche Bazaar acclimatization day
Day 5Trek to Phorste Thanga from Namche Bazaar
Day 6Trek to Machherma from Phortse Thanga
Day 7Trek to Gokyo from Machherma
Day 8Trek to Gokyo Ri and back to Gokyo
Day 9Trek to Dole from Gokyo
Day 10Trek to Namche Bazaar from Dole
Day 11Trek to Lukla from Namche Bazaar
Day 12Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 13Transfer to International Airport
Equipment Required
A comprehensive packing list is essential for a successful trek. While we provide a company duffel bag (to be carried by porters), sleeping bag, and down jacket (to be returned after the trek), you need to bring the following essential personal gear:
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking base layers (top & bottom)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof/windproof shell jacket & pants
- Trekking trousers & lightweight shorts
- Warm thermal gloves & inner gloves
Footwear & Accessories
- Sturdy, well broken-in trekking boots
- 4-5 pairs of warm trekking socks (merino wool)
- Polarized UV sunglasses & Sun hat
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Route Map
Altitude Profile
Track elevation changes across the journey.
Trek Video
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Gokyo Lakes easier than Everest Base Camp?
Traveller Reviews
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