Gokyo Lakes Trek
High turquoise lakes, the world's largest glacier, and sunrise from Gokyo Ri — all in one epic circuit.
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Kathmandu-direct pricing — no middleman markup.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek leads through the Khumbu's quieter western valleys to a chain of turquoise glacial lakes above 4,700 m, capped by a sunrise ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) with views of Cho Oyu, Everest, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The route continues over Cho La Pass (5,420 m) to EBC and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) — making this one of the most rewarding combinations in the Himalaya.
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Itinerary
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive Kathmandu (1,350 m)
▲ 1,350 m
Welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to your hotel in Thamel, and an evening briefing with your guide.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Fly Kathmandu → Lukla (2,860 m); trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
▲ 2,610 m
A thrilling 40-minute mountain flight lands at Lukla's famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Trail begins through pine forests and along the Dudh Koshi river. 3–4 hrs.
Overnight: Phakding
Trek Phakding → Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
▲ 3,440 m
A classic Khumbu day: suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi, a steady climb through Sagarmatha National Park, and your first glimpse of Everest before descending into the lively trading hub of Namche. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Namche Bazaar
Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
▲ 3,440 m
A crucial rest day. Hike up to the Everest View Hotel for a panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku — then return to Namche for a leisurely afternoon exploring the market.
Overnight: Namche Bazaar
Trek Namche → Dole (4,200 m)
▲ 4,200 m
The trail leaves the Everest main route and climbs into the Gokyo valley — quieter, wilder, and richly scenic. 5–6 hrs.
Overnight: Dole
Trek Dole → Machhermo (4,470 m)
▲ 4,470 m
A gradual ascent through pasture to Machhermo, with yak herding camps and views of the Gokyo peaks ahead. 4–5 hrs.
Overnight: Machhermo
Trek Machhermo → Gokyo (4,800 m)
▲ 4,800 m
The trail traces the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier — Nepal's longest — before reaching the cobalt-blue first, second, and third Gokyo Lakes. 4–5 hrs.
Overnight: Gokyo
Ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357 m); explore upper lakes; rest at Gokyo
▲ 5,357 m
A pre-dawn climb of Gokyo Ri rewards with one of the finest 360-degree panoramas in the Himalaya: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu. Afternoon: walk to the fourth or fifth lake.
Overnight: Gokyo
Trek Gokyo → Thagnak (4,700 m)
▲ 4,700 m
Short trek to the high camp at Thagnak, staging point for the Cho La crossing. 2–3 hrs.
Overnight: Thagnak
Cross Cho La (5,420 m); trek to Dzongla (4,830 m)
▲ 5,420 m
A glacier crossing with fixed ropes leads over Cho La into the Everest valley — dramatic and deeply satisfying. 7–8 hrs.
Overnight: Dzongla
Trek Dzongla → Lobuche (4,940 m)
▲ 4,940 m
Short descent to Lobuche along the Khumbu moraine. 2–3 hrs.
Overnight: Lobuche
Trek Lobuche → EBC (5,364 m) → Gorak Shep (5,170 m)
▲ 5,364 m
A demanding day over rocky glacial moraine to Everest Base Camp — a vast expanse of rock and ice at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall, draped in prayer flags — before returning to Gorak Shep for the night. 7–8 hrs.
Overnight: Gorak Shep
Hike Kala Patthar (5,545 m); trek to Pheriche (4,371 m)
▲ 5,545 m
Sunrise over Everest from Kala Patthar, then a long descent to the warmer air of Pheriche.
Overnight: Pheriche
Trek Pheriche → Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
▲ 3,440 m
A long descent through the lower Khumbu along the Imja Khola, retracing forest and village as the thin air finally begins to ease. 6–7 hrs.
Overnight: Namche Bazaar
Trek Namche → Lukla (2,860 m)
▲ 2,860 m
The final trekking day follows the Dudh Koshi down to Lukla — an easier descent, and a celebratory last dinner with your guide and porters. 6–7 hrs.
Overnight: Lukla
Fly Lukla → Kathmandu; leisure
▲ 1,350 m
An early-morning mountain flight returns you to Kathmandu, with a free afternoon to rest, shop in Thamel, or reflect on the journey.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Departure
Gallery
Moments from the route
Route
Route Map
Route and durations are approximate and can be customised to your schedule.
Included
What's Included
Exclusions
Not Included
Before You Go
Important Notes
- Permits: Sagarmatha National Park entry + Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit (arranged by TempleFront).
- Best seasons: March–May and September–November for the clearest skies and most stable weather.
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking to 5,600 m and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory — please bring your policy details.
- The Cho La Pass (5,420 m) is a glaciated crossing with a short fixed-rope section — basic crampons or microspikes are recommended and the day is long; your guide will turn back in poor conditions.
- Altitude sickness risk above 3,500 m — the acclimatisation days at Namche and Gokyo are non-negotiable, and your guide checks oxygen levels daily.
- Fitness: you should be in good general health and able to walk 5–8 hours a day on consecutive days over uneven and glaciated terrain. No technical climbing or prior trekking experience is required, though the Cho La day is demanding.
- Lukla flights are weather-dependent and can be delayed — we strongly recommend keeping 1–2 buffer days at the end of your trip.
- Money: carry enough Nepali rupees in cash from Kathmandu — Namche has the last reliable ATMs, and teahouses above it are cash-only.
Frequently Asked
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private trek?
Yes — every TempleFront trek is guided exclusively for your group. We never combine you with other trekkers.
What is included in the price?
All required permits, a licensed English-speaking guide, porters, teahouse accommodation, and breakfast and dinner throughout. Lunches are on your own account at teahouses en route.
How does Gokyo compare to EBC?
Gokyo is quieter and often considered more scenic — the turquoise lakes and Gokyo Ri viewpoint rival anything on the EBC route. This tour adds the Cho La glacier crossing and Kala Patthar, making it arguably the most complete Khumbu experience in a single trek.
What is Gokyo Ri like?
Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) offers a panoramic view of four 8,000 m peaks simultaneously — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu — with the vast Ngozumpa Glacier below. Many experienced trekkers rate the sunrise from Gokyo Ri above that from Kala Patthar.
What about altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is a genuine risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatisation days and a "climb high, sleep low" approach above Namche. Consult your doctor about altitude medication and report any symptoms to your guide immediately.
What gear do I need?
Sturdy trekking boots, trekking poles, a sleeping bag rated to -10°C, down jacket, waterproof shell, sun protection, and a headlamp. A full kit list is provided on booking.
What are the teahouses like?
Basic but comfortable twin rooms with shared facilities. Above Namche, rooms are simpler and colder — your sleeping bag is essential. Most teahouses have charging points and WiFi at extra cost.
How do I confirm a booking?
Send us a WhatsApp or email enquiry. We respond same day with a detailed quote. A deposit secures your dates.
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Ready to plan your trip?
Every tour is private and fully customisable. Drop us a message and we'll build the perfect itinerary for your group.