The Gokyo Lakes to Everest Base Camp Trekking is an extraordinary adventure. Trekkers may experience a unique combination of breathtaking mountain vistas, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. This trek stands out as a unique and rewarding journey, taking you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Everest region of Nepal.
The journey begins from a thrilling flight to Lukla. It is the gateway of Everest Region. Relatively, less trekker does this combined route than other traditional routes like Everest Base Camp.
We start the trek from Lukla, the trail winds through lush forests. Trekkers cross suspension bridges which are draped with prayer flags. Travelers enjoy Sherpa villages and their hospitality. Each step brings you closer to the majestic Gokyo Lakes, a series of six glacial-fed turquoise lakes situated at high altitudes.
Gokyo Lakes are one of the highlights of this trek. These pristine lakes are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. It adds a spiritual dimension to the adventure. The serene beauty of the lakes, surrounded by towering peaks, offers a tranquil and reflective environment. A hike up Gokyo Ri, a nearby peak, provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Gokyo Valley and the Himalayas, including four of the world’s highest peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
his incredible journey.
Our representative will come to pick you up at the airport with a placard that states company sign. You will be greeted and transferred to a hotel. After settling in, you will have some time to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, you will attend a pre-trek briefing where you will meet your guide and fellow trekkers, and receive important information about the trek.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today, you will explore some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Visit the famous Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and the historic Durbar Square. This cultural tour provides a glimpse into the rich history and spiritual traditions of Nepal.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Early in the morning, you will take a scenic 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, you will meet the rest of your trekking crew and begin your trek. The trail descends gradually through pine forests and small villages, crossing several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding.
Overnight in Phakding.
Today’s trek follows the Dudh Koshi River and crosses several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. The trail ascends through dense pine forests, offering views of Mount Thamserku (6,608m). After a steep climb, you will reach the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, the main trading center in the Khumbu region.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
To adjust to the higher altitude, you will spend an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. You can hike up to the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. You can also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and the local market.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
The trail today ascends gradually, passing through rhododendron forests and offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. You will trek through small villages and terraced fields before descending to the Dudh Koshi River and reaching Phortse Thanga.
Overnight in Phortse Thanga.
Today’s trek involves a steady ascent through a series of steep switchbacks. The trail passes through beautiful forests and alongside waterfalls, gradually leading to the alpine meadows of Machhermo. This village offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Cho Oyu.
Overnight in Machhermo.
You will continue your ascent towards the Gokyo Valley, passing through the beautiful moraine-covered landscapes. The trail follows the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. You will reach the pristine turquoise Gokyo Lakes, nestled amidst towering peaks. Overnight in Gokyo.
You will continue your ascent towards the Gokyo Valley, passing through the beautiful moraine-covered landscapes. The trail follows the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. You will reach the pristine turquoise Gokyo Lakes, nestled amidst towering peaks.
Overnight in Gokyo.
Today is an acclimatization day in the Gokyo Valley. You will hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri, a small peak that offers one of the best panoramic views in the Everest region. From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among other peaks. Overnight in Gokyo
Today is one of the most challenging days of the trek as you cross the Cho La Pass. The climb is steep and involves traversing a glacier, but the views from the pass are breathtaking. After crossing the pass, you will descend to the village of Dzongla.
Overnight in Dzongla.
The trek to Lobuche is relatively short and less strenuous, allowing you to recover from the previous day’s effort. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam. You will reach Lobuche, a small village nestled beneath the towering Lobuche Peak. Overnight in Lobuche.
Today, you will trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest, continue your journey to Everest Base Camp. The trail is rugged and follows the Khumbu Glacier. At Base Camp, you will have a close-up view of the Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding peaks. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Early in the morning, you will hike to the summit of Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular sunrise over Everest and the surrounding peaks. After descending to Gorak Shep, you will trek down to the village of Pheriche.
Overnight in Pheriche.
You will retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, passing through the villages of Pangboche and Tengboche. The trail descends through beautiful rhododendron forests and crosses several suspension bridges.
Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Today, you will trek back to Lukla, retracing your steps along the Dudh Koshi River. The trail passes through Monjo and Phakding before a final ascent to Lukla. In the evening, you can celebrate the completion of your trek with your fellow trekkers. Overnight in Lukla.
Early in the morning, you will take a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing, exploring the city, or shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking team.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Kathmandu before being transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible journey you have completed and the memories you have made in the Everest region.
Due to heavy air traffic congestion during peak trekking seasons (September to November and March to May), flights to Lukla operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, which is 132 kilometers (82 miles) from Kathmandu. The drive from Kathmandu to Manthali typically takes about 5 hours. Based on your flight schedule to Lukla, we arrange transportation—be it a car, van, tourist bus, or other necessary vehicle—to ensure a smooth transfer to Manthali Airport for all trekkers.
The Gokyo Lakes to Everest Base Camp Trekking is an adventurous and scenic trek that combines the beauty of the Gokyo Lakes with the iconic Everest Base Camp route. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, and takes you through diverse landscapes and Sherpa villages.
The trek typically takes about 18 to 20 days, depending on the specific itinerary and acclimatization needs. This includes time for acclimatization, exploration, and contingency days for weather-related delays.
The best times for the Gokyo Lakes to Everest Base Camp Trekking are during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions.
The trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude, long duration, and the crossing of the Cho La Pass. Trekkers should have good physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and the ability to handle challenging terrains and altitude.
Yes, you can join a group for the Gokyo Lakes to Everest Base Camp Trekking. Go Trekking Nepal organizes group departures on set dates, allowing you to join a group of like-minded adventurers. Joining a group trek can also reduce costs and enhance the overall trekking experience through shared stories and companionship.
Accommodation during the trek is primarily in teahouses, which provide basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and meals. In more remote areas, the amenities may be more limited, but the teahouses offer a warm and welcoming environment for trekkers.
Trekkers need several permits for this trek, including:
– Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
– Gokyo-Ri Area Permit (if applicable)
– TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
Go Trekking Nepal will assist you in obtaining these permits.
Yes, acclimatization is crucial due to the high altitudes encountered during the trek. Proper acclimatization helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience. The itinerary typically includes rest days at key points to help trekkers acclimatize.
Packing for the Gokyo Lakes to Everest Base Camp Trekking should include:
– Warm clothing (layers, thermal wear, down jacket)
– Good quality trekking boots
– Sleeping bag (rated for low temperatures)
– Trekking poles
– First aid kit and personal medications
– Hydration system (water bottles, purification tablets)
– Snacks and energy bars
– Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
– Basic toiletries and personal items
Go Trekking Nepal will provide a detailed packing list to help you prepare.
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. However, due to air traffic congestion, flights often operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, about 5 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. Go Trekking Nepal arranges transportation to Manthali to ensure a smooth transfer for all trekkers.