Gokyo Lakes Trek
based on 205 reviews
Essential Information - Gokyo Lakes Trek
Highlights of the Gokyo Lakes Trek
Gokyo Lakes: The trek takes you to the pristine turquoise lakes, a series of glacial-fed bodies of water surrounded by the stunning Himalayas. These lakes are a major highlight, offering tranquil beauty and perfect photo opportunities.
Gokyo Ri Summit (5,357m): A climb to the summit of Gokyo Ri offers one of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. This viewpoint is considered one of the finest in the Everest region.
Ngozumpa Glacier: Trekking alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, contrasts rugged terrain and the calm waters of Gokyo Lakes.
Sherpa Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture as you pass through traditional villages like Namche Bazaar and Dole. Experience their hospitality, vibrant traditions, and way of life.
Namche Bazaar: This bustling Sherpa town is a significant acclimatization point and offers stunning views, a vibrant market, and a deep cultural connection to the Everest region.
Remote Trails: The Gokyo Lakes route is less crowded than the classic Everest Base Camp trail, allowing for a more peaceful trekking experience amidst untouched landscapes.
Best Season for the Gokyo Lakes Trek
The best time to go on the Gokyo Lakes Trek is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons.
Autumn (September to November): This period offers the clearest skies, stable weather, and stunning views of the mountains and turquoise lakes. The crisp, post-monsoon air enhances visibility, making it the most popular season for trekking.
Spring (March to May): Trekking in spring brings warmer temperatures and colorful rhododendron blooms. The clear skies provide spectacular Himalayan views, and the trails are surrounded by vibrant flora.
Both seasons offer ideal conditions for the Gokyo Lakes Trek, providing excellent weather, beautiful landscapes, and an unforgettable trekking experience.
Gokyo Lakes Trek – At a Glance
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude (m) | Altitude (ft) | Duration (hrs) | Distance (km) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,350 | 4,429 | – | – | The lowest point of the trek |
| 2 | Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) | 2,800 | 9,184 | – | – | |
| 2 | Lukla to Phakding (Trek) | 2,652 | 8,700 | 8 | 5 | |
| 3 | Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3,440 | 11,283 | 10 | 6.2 | |
| 4 | Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar | 3,440 | 11,283 | – | – | |
| 5 | Namche Bazaar to Dole | 4,200 | 13,780 | 7 | 4.3 | |
| 6 | Dole to Machhermo | 4,470 | 14,663 | 5 | 3.1 | |
| 7 | Machhermo to Gokyo | 4,790 | 15,748 | 4 | 2.5 | |
| 7 | Afternoon Hike to Gokyo Ri | 5,357 | 17,570 | 2 | 1.2 | Highest point of the trek |
| 8 | Gokyo to Machhermo | 4,790 | 15,748 | 4 | 2.5 | |
| 8 | Morning Hike to Gokyo’s 4th Lake | 5,000 | 16,404 | 3 | 1.9 (approx.) | |
| 9 | Machhermo to Namche Bazaar | 4,470 | 14,663 | 9 | 5.6 | |
| 10 | Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 3,440 | 11,283 | 16 | 9.9 | |
| 11 | Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight) | 2,800 | 9,184 | – | – |
Accommodation on the Gokyo Lakes Trek
All accommodations on the Gokyo Lakes Trek are provided in traditional local teahouses. These teahouses offer basic yet comfortable lodging and provide a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle of the Himalayan region.
Rooms: Typically, teahouse rooms are simple, with twin beds, shared bathrooms, and communal dining areas. Some teahouses may offer private rooms at lower altitudes, but shared accommodations are standard at higher elevations.
Meals: The teahouses serve a variety of local and international dishes. Meals usually consist of traditional Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), soups, noodles, and tea, with options like fried rice or pasta available as well.
Facilities: While the facilities vary by location, expect shared bathrooms with basic amenities. Hot showers and charging facilities are available at most teahouses, though these may come at an additional cost.
Staying in these local teahouses enhances the cultural experience of the Gokyo Lakes Trek, providing warmth, hospitality, and insight into the daily lives of the local Sherpa communities.
Food on the Gokyo Lakes Trek
The Gokyo Lakes Trek offers a variety of meals at the local teahouses along the trail. While options may be essential, they are filling and nutritious, ensuring you stay energized throughout the trek.
Breakfast: Typical options include porridge, toast, pancakes, eggs (fried, boiled, or scrambled), Tibetan bread, and tea or coffee.
Lunch and Dinner: Meals often include:
Dal Bhat: A traditional Nepali meal of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry, often served with pickles.
Noodles and Soups: Options such as noodle soup, Sherpa stew, and fried noodles are common.
Rice and Pasta Dishes: Most teahouses serve fried rice, steamed rice with vegetables, or simple pasta dishes.
Potatoes: Boiled or fried potatoes with eggs or vegetables are a staple in the higher regions.
Snacks and Beverages: Hot tea (black, milk, or herbal), coffee, and soft drinks are widely available. Teahouse shops also sell snacks like energy bars, cookies, and chocolate.
Though simple, the food on the trek is hearty and designed to provide trekkers with the energy needed for long days on the trail.
Internet on the Gokyo Lakes Trek
You can access the internet at all local teahouses along the Gokyo Lakes Trek, but the quality and speed vary. Here’s what to expect:
Wi-Fi: All teahouses offer Wi-Fi services for a small fee, though connections may become slower and less reliable as you ascend to higher altitudes, particularly after Namche Bazaar.
Local SIM Cards: Another option is to use a local SIM card (e.g., Ncell or Nepal Telecom), which can be purchased easily in Kathmandu. With data packages, mobile internet works well up to Namche Bazaar, offering a reliable way to stay connected.
Wi-Fi in teahouses and mobile data with a local SIM card ensures connectivity during most of the trek, though coverage may become limited in the more remote areas.
Water Sources on the Gokyo Lakes Trek
Safe drinking water is essential during the Gokyo Lakes Trek, and there are multiple options available along the route:
Teahouses: All teahouses offer boiled water for a small fee. This is one of the safest and most convenient options for drinking water during the trek.
Natural Water Sources: Streams and springs are available along the trail, but the water must be treated before consumption. If you plan to use these sources, it is highly recommended that you carry a water purification system, such as purification tablets or a portable filter.
Bottled Water: Bottled water is available at teahouses and shops along the trek, though it becomes more expensive as you go higher. It’s also not the most environmentally friendly option due to plastic waste in remote areas.
For a sustainable and cost-effective solution, relying on purified water from teahouses or treating water from natural sources during the trek is best.
Do You Need Altitude Medications for the Gokyo Lakes Trek?
The Gokyo Lakes Trek reaches high altitudes, with the highest point being Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters. While not everyone will experience altitude sickness, being prepared is a good idea. Here’s what you should consider:
Altitude Medications: Many trekkers bring Diamox (Acetazolamide), a common medication that helps prevent and reduce the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It’s essential to consult with your doctor before taking Diamox, as it may have side effects and isn’t suitable for everyone.
Natural Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is the best way to prevent altitude sickness. The trek includes acclimatization days, such as in Namche Bazaar, to help your body adjust.
Hydration and Rest: Staying well-hydrated, eating well, and getting plenty of rest can help your body cope with high altitudes.
While medications like Diamox can be helpful, proper acclimatization is the most important factor in avoiding altitude sickness on the Gokyo Lakes Trek. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting the trek to discuss the need for medications.
Hot Showers on the Gokyo Lakes Trek
You can enjoy hot showers at most teahouses along the Gokyo Lakes Trek, but the type of shower and availability can vary by location and altitude:
Gas Showers or Bucket Showers: At higher elevations, teahouses offer gas-heated or bucket-hot showers, where water is heated manually. These are available for a small fee, and while simple, they provide much-needed warmth after a long day of trekking.
Solar Showers: At lower elevations, some teahouses provide solar-powered showers. These depend on sunlight and may be unreliable in cloudy or colder conditions.
While hot showers are available, expect to pay a small fee for them as you ascend higher, and the shower quality may become more basic as the altitude increases.
Gear List for the Gokyo Lakes Trek
Here’s a recommended gear list to ensure you’re well-prepared for the Gokyo Lakes Trek:
Clothing:
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirts and thermal tops
Insulating Layers: Fleece jacket or down jacket for warmth
Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants (thermal leggings for colder days)
Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for protection against rain and wind
Gloves: Warm gloves and lightweight liner gloves
Hat and Buff: Warm hat for cold conditions and a buff for neck and face protection
Socks: Wool or synthetic trekking socks (bring multiple pairs)
Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support
Camp Shoes: Lightweight shoes or sandals for evenings in the teahouses
Gear:
Backpack: 30-40L daypack with a rain cover
Trekking Poles: Adjustable poles for support on uneven terrain
Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -15°C (can be rented in Kathmandu)
Water Bottles/CamelBak: At least 2 liters of water capacity
Water Purification: Tablets or portable filter for treating water from streams
Accessories:
Headlamp: With extra batteries
Sunglasses: UV protection for high-altitude sun exposure
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF to protect from intense UV rays
Trekking Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying
Personal Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, and wet wipes
First Aid Kit: Include blister treatment, pain relief, and altitude sickness meds like Diamox (consult a doctor)
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits for extra energy on the trail
Miscellaneous:
Camera: With extra batteries or power bank
Power Bank/Solar Charger: To keep electronics charged
Local Currency (NPR): For purchasing food, showers, or Wi-Fi at teahouses
This list covers all essential gear for the Gokyo Lakes Trek, ensuring you’re prepared for various weather conditions and the high-altitude environment.
Reviews on Gokyo Lakes Trek
Based on 2
Reviews
Emily Cartar
USA
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure!
I recently completed the Gokyo Lakes Trek, and it was an experience of a lifetime! The views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayas were absolutely breathtaking.
The highlight for me was reaching Gokyo Ri and seeing the turquoise lakes below. The trek was well-paced, with plenty of time to acclimatize, and the Sherpa villages we passed through were charming.
Our guide was knowledgeable and made sure we were safe and comfortable throughout. I would highly recommend this trek to anyone looking for a true Himalayan adventure
James Miller
Australia
Unforgettable Trek with Stunning Views!
The Gokyo Lakes Trek exceeded all my expectations. The scenery was stunning, from the Gokyo Lakes to the incredible panoramic views from Gokyo Ri.
The trek was challenging but rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the natural beauty. The Sherpa people were so welcoming, and the teahouses provided cozy, comfortable stays.
Our guide was fantastic and helped us navigate the high altitudes with ease. If you’re looking for an unforgettable trekking experience, this is it!
You May Like
