Overview
The Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek offers a spectacular alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route, combining the best of the Khumbu region with the stunning turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes. This trek takes you to the sacred Gokyo Valley, home to the world's highest freshwater lake system.
Starting with the thrilling flight to Lukla, the trail diverges from the main EBC route at Namche, leading you through quieter valleys to the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes. The highlight is the climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), offering arguably the best panoramic views of the entire Everest massif, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The adventure continues with the challenging crossing of Cho La Pass (5,420m), connecting you to the classic EBC trail. You'll still visit Everest Base Campand witness sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m), making this the most comprehensive Everest region trek available.
Trek Highlights
Best Time to Trek
Spring (Mar - May)
Rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors, moderate temperatures, and excellent visibility. The Gokyo Lakes are partially frozen, creating stunning ice formations.
ExcellentAutumn (Sep - Nov)
The most popular season with crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and the best mountain views. The Gokyo Lakes are at their most beautiful turquoise color.
Best SeasonDay-by-Day Itinerary
Early morning departure from your hotel for the scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport). This 35-minute flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan range, including Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Everest on clear days. Upon landing at Lukla's famous hillside airstrip, you'll meet your trekking crew and porters. After organizing gear, begin the gentle descent to Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through small Sherpa settlements. This short trek helps with initial acclimatization while introducing you to the beauty of the Khumbu region. Overnight in Phakding's comfortable teahouse.
What's Included
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers in private vehicle
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star with breakfast)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Best available teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Assistant guide for groups of 5 or more
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20kg per person)
- Round-trip flights Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit (TIMS card)
- Gokyo Lake entry permit
- All ground transportation as per itinerary
- First aid medical kit including pulse oximeter
- Sleeping bag and down jacket for high altitude (can be returned after trek)
- Duffle bag for porter to carry your belongings
- Trekking map of Everest & Gokyo region
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Emergency evacuation arrangement assistance (cost covered by insurance)
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee ($30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days - available on arrival)
- Travel insurance (mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,600m & emergency evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome dinner and breakfasts)
- Bottled/mineral water during trek (purification tablets provided)
- Hot showers and battery charging at lodges ($2-5 per use)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters (recommended)
- Emergency evacuation/helicopter rescue costs (covered by insurance)
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather, flight delays, political unrest)
Important Information
- • Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,600m including Cho La Pass crossing.
- • Flights to/from Lukla are weather-dependent and may experience delays.
- • The Cho La Pass crossing requires proper gear including crampons in spring season.
- • We recommend starting physical preparation 2-3 months before your trek.
Photo Gallery
Turquoise Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Ri Summit View
Everest from Gokyo Ri
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Gokyo trek differ from classic EBC?
The Gokyo trek takes you to the beautiful Gokyo Valley with its turquoise lakes and Gokyo Ri viewpoint, then crosses Cho La Pass to connect with the EBC trail. It's more challenging but offers the best of both worlds - the lakes, the pass, and Everest Base Camp.
How difficult is the Cho La Pass crossing?
Cho La Pass (5,420m) is challenging but achievable with good fitness. The pass involves walking on glacier moraine and sometimes snow/ice. In spring, crampons may be needed. Your guide will assess conditions and provide necessary equipment.
Is the Gokyo trek more difficult than EBC?
Yes, the Gokyo trek is considered more challenging due to the additional pass crossing (Cho La) and the extra elevation gain/loss. It requires good fitness and proper acclimatization, which our itinerary carefully provides.
What makes Gokyo Lakes special?
The Gokyo Lakes are the world's highest freshwater lake system (4,700-5,000m). Their stunning turquoise color comes from glacial silt. The sixth lake, Thonak Tsho, is Nepal's largest lake by volume. They're considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Can we see Everest from Gokyo Ri?
Yes! Gokyo Ri offers what many consider the best panoramic view of the Everest massif. Unlike Kala Patthar, you see Everest from across the Ngozumpa Glacier with the entire Lhotse-Nuptse ridge and Cho Oyu perfectly framed.