The Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the most scenic trekking routes in Nepal’s Everest region. Famous for its turquoise glacial lakes, panoramic Himalayan views, and the iconic Gokyo Ri viewpoint, this trek offers a quieter and more peaceful alternative to the Everest Base Camp route while still showcasing the world’s highest mountains.
The Gokyo Lake Trek takes trekkers to an altitude of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) at Gokyo Ri. The trail passes through Sagarmatha National Park, traditional Sherpa villages, and the beautiful Dudh Koshi Valley, leading to the stunning Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater lake system in the world.
Clear skies and mild temperatures
Best visibility of lakes and mountains
Blooming alpine flowers
Stable weather and crisp mountain views
Ideal trekking conditions
Peak trekking season in the Everest region
The Gokyo Lake Trek difficulty is moderate. It is suitable for trekkers with good fitness and basic trekking experience. Challenges include:
High altitude
Long walking days
Cold temperatures at higher elevations
Proper acclimatization is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Stunning Gokyo Lakes with turquoise glacial water
Panoramic views from Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
Views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu
Peaceful trekking trails with fewer crowds
Authentic Sherpa culture and villages
Warm layered clothing
Waterproof trekking boots
Sleeping bag (−10°C to −15°C)
Trekking poles
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and gloves
Basic first-aid kit
Trekkers should prepare with:
Regular cardio exercises
Practice hikes with a backpack
Proper acclimatization planning
Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla – Trek to Phakding
Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Dole
Day 5: Dole to Machhermo
Day 6: Machhermo to Gokyo
Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri – Explore Gokyo Lakes
Day 8: Gokyo to Dole
Day 9: Dole to Namche Bazaar
Days 10–Trek back to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu
The cost of Gokyo Lake Trek typically ranges from USD 1,100 to USD 2,300, depending on:
Trek duration
Guide and porter services
Accommodation and meals
Flights, permits, and logistics
We decided to fly by helicopter from Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu. This avoided having to walk to Lukla and then having a long bumpy ride from Ramechhap airport back into Kathmandu. Also then we could get a flight from Kathmandu airport to Pokhara. All the arrangements were made by Easy Flight Travel. We were escorted up to the helipad and helped into the helicopter. I would definitely recommend Easy Flight Travel to anyone wanting to organise travel from Namche Bazaar
Raju from Easy Flight Travel is honest reliable and very friendly to deal with.
You can trust him to arrange a flight, recommend a hotel, or carry out safe honest mony change. What he agrees to will happen.
Highly recommended.
Raju was efficient and helpful in booking our helicopter from Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu and our flight onto Pokhara. He was there in the morning to escort us and to carry a pack up to the helicopter pad. The flight was delayed, but he waited with us and was in contact with the company, checking on when the flight would arrive.