How difficult is the Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging, with some steep ascents, high-altitude sections, and long walking days. It is suitable for trekkers with previous high-altitude experience, especially for the short version that skips acclimatization days.

What is the best time to do the trek?

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear, and the Himalayan views are at their best. Winter is also possible, but trails can be cold and snowy.

Do I need permits for the trek?

Yes, trekkers require a TIMS Card and a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. These permits can be arranged in Kathmandu before starting the trek.

Gokyo Lake Trek

The Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek is one of the most stunning trekking experiences in the Everest region. Every year, thousands of trekkers visit Nepal to enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise lakes and the breathtaking viewpoint of Gokyo Ri (5,357m). For trekkers who have limited time but still want to explore this remarkable destination, the Short Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek offers a perfect alternative.

This trek is truly a lifetime adventure. It begins with an exciting mountain flight to Lukla, followed by a scenic trail leading toward the Gokyo Valley. Along the way, you will witness the world’s highest peaks and experience the rare combination of high Himalayan landscapes and high-altitude wetlands. The legendary five Gokyo Lakes are incredibly beautiful—calm, pristine, and beyond imagination. You will also get the chance to see Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

The journey is not only about nature; it also provides a chance to explore the unique Sherpa culture of the Everest region. You’ll experience their warm hospitality, traditional lifestyle, and cheerful spirit as you pass through mountain villages.

Because this short version does not include acclimatization days, it is most suitable for trekkers who already have previous high-altitude trekking experience. If you are a beginner, it is recommended to join the standard Gokyo Lakes Trek or choose another trek with proper acclimatization days.

Accomodation
Hotel/ Camping
Best Season
All The Time
Maximum Altitude
5435m
Transportation
Fly/ Car/ Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trekking to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Ri and Cho La Pass is one of the most breathtaking routes in the Everest region. Famous for its dazzling turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the thrilling crossing of Cho La Pass, this adventure offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and Himalayan culture.

Throughout the journey, you will walk through the heart of the Khumbu region, experiencing the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries, and exploring the lively mountain hub of Namche Bazaar. The trail passes through the protected landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park, home to rare wildlife and towering peaks.

This route presents some of the best panoramic viewpoints in the Himalayas, including Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, where you can admire breathtaking 360° mountain vistas. The sight of the world’s giants—Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori—makes the EBC Trek via Gokyo and Cho La Pass a truly remarkable and unforgettable high-altitude experience.

Trip Highlights

Explore the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo River.
Visiting all of the high Valley of the Khumbu with the extra time.
Cultural Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.
Adventurous trek through the Everest route.

Day 01 :

Arrival at Kathmandu Airport and Transfer to Hotel

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Take time to rest or explore the nearby local markets and prepare for the trek ahead.

Day 02 :

Kathmandu Sightseeing Day

Enjoy a guided tour of major UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Learn about Nepal’s rich culture and history before preparing for your upcoming trek.

Day 03 :

Fly to Lukla (2,860m) – 30 min, Trek to Phakding

Take a scenic mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. After landing, begin your trek on a gentle trail through charming Sherpa villages and along the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding for an overnight stay.

Day 04 :

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Follow the trail through pine forests, suspension bridges, and traditional villages as you enter Sagarmatha National Park. After a gradual ascent and crossing the famous Hillary Bridge, reach Namche Bazaar—the lively Sherpa town and main trading hub of the Everest region.

Day 05 :

Rest in Namche (3,440m / 11,286ft) for Acclimatization

Spend a day in Namche Bazaar to adjust to the altitude. You may take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel or visit the Sherpa Museum. Enjoy the town’s bakeries, markets, and beautiful mountain scenery while preparing for higher elevations.

Day 06 :

Trek from Namche to Dole

Leave Namche Bazaar and trek through rhododendron forests and traditional Sherpa villages. The trail gradually ascends, offering stunning views of Thamserku and Kangtega peaks, before reaching the small village of Dole for an overnight stay.

Day 07 :

Trek from Dole to Machhermo

Continue trekking through alpine landscapes and moraine trails, gradually gaining altitude. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks as you reach Machhermo, a small village known for its stone houses and peaceful environment, where you will stay overnight.

Day 08 :

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo Lakes Village

Trek through high-altitude terrain with spectacular views of Ngozumpa Glacier and surrounding peaks. Arrive at Gokyo Lakes Village, a serene settlement beside the pristine turquoise lakes, and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere overnight.

Day 09 :

Hike to Gokyo Ri and Trek Down to Dole

Start early to hike up Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for a panoramic view of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, descend back to Dole for an overnight stay.

Day 10 :

Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar

Descend through picturesque Sherpa villages and lush forests, retracing the trail toward Namche Bazaar. Enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way and arrive in Namche for an overnight stay, resting after several days at higher altitudes.

Day 11 :

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Descend through forests, suspension bridges, and charming villages along the Dudh Koshi River. Enjoy your final day of trekking in the Everest region before reaching Lukla, where you will stay overnight and prepare for your flight back to Kathmandu.

Day 12 :

Fly from Lukla to Ramechhap

Take a scenic flight from Lukla, enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views on the way down. Upon arrival in Ramechhap, transfer to your vehicle for onward travel or overnight stay, marking the end of your high-altitude trekking adventure.

Day 13 :

Free Day in Kathmandu

Spend a relaxing day in Kathmandu at your own pace. You can explore local markets, enjoy cultural sites, shop for souvenirs, or simply rest and reflect on your Everest region trekking experience.

Day 14 :

Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Depart Kathmandu with unforgettable memories of the Everest region, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri, carrying a lifetime of Himalayan experiences.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
Three nights’ standard twin-sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
All necessary paperwork, including Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (Ramechhap -Lukla- Ramechhap) flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking well well-trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
Comprehensive medical supplies (a first aid kit will be available).
Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after the trip is completed).
Government taxes and official expenses.
Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with private car/jeep.
Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
Assistant guide for groups of 7 or more people.

Cost Excludes

Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch and dinner.
Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
Personal travel and medical insurance.
International airfare.
Your personal expenses.
All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees($30 USD per person)
Excess baggage of more than 10 kg for the Lukla flight.
NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is non-refundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.

Gokyo Lake Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs