Trip Overview
Sitting in the heart of the Khumbu region, the Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the most spectacular trekking routes in Nepal. Less packed and comparatively simpler than the route to the Base Camp, this journey awards its trekkers with fantastic views and cultural encounters.
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is an excellent option if you are not up for the traditional Everest Base Camp Trek. It combines the best of the natural and cultural aspects of the Khumbu region. The breathtaking mountains, glistening rivers, high valleys, icy glaciers, pristine lakes, and the rural Sherpa lifestyle add to your adventure.
Beginning with a 35-minute flight to Lukla, this trek takes you across the cultural settlements and villages of the area. The trail passes through the popular Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and others. Before you set off for the trek’s highest point at Gokyo Ri (5,360 meters), you’ll spend a night at the Gokyo Valley, located at the shore of the pristine Gokyo Lakes.
The route to Gokyo Lakes (a part of the Sagarmatha National Park) is a less busy trail compared to the standard Everest Trek. The pristine lake comprises six water bodies located at a high elevation of 4,700 to 5,000 meters. These lakes, classified as the Ramsar sites, are peaceful and equally pleasing to the senses. Each lake is classified as sacred, and it holds high importance for both Hindus and Buddhists.
After that, you’ll hike up to the popular Himalayan viewpoint of Gokyo Ri. From the summit, you’ll get to relish the panoramic range of the Mahalangur Himal, including Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and so on. You can also glimpse the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas.
Having said that, the journey to the Everest Gokyo Lake Trek is not an easy one. You’ll have to walk around 5 to 6 hours every day on the rugged trails. Likewise, the climb to Gokyo Ri is quite steep and rough. In a nutshell, this trail offers a perfect blend of adventure for those who want to visit both the mountains and lakes of the Khumbu valley.
Highlights of Everest Gokyo Lake Trek
- Witness the beauty of the Khumbu region in the off-the-beaten trails of the Gokyo valley.
- Be a part of the local Sherpa lifestyle and community.
- Stand and relax at the shore of the world’s highest freshwater lakes in Gokyo valley.
- Walk across the biggest glacier in the Khumbu region, the Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Hike up to one of the Khumbu’s most popular viewpoints, Gokyo Ri, and watch the captivating sunrise.
- Enjoy the panoramic sight of the Mahalangur Himal, including Mt. Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, etc.
- Begin your Everest Gokyo Lake Trek with one of the most adventurous 35-minute flights to Lulka.
Best Time for Everest Gokyo Lake Trek
The most favorable time to take on this adventure is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). The skies remain clear, and the weather remains moderately warm between these months.
Unlike other seasons, spring and autumn allow you to enjoy the sight of mountains and landscapes of the Everest region to the fullest.