Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek
Trip Facts
Trip Highlights
- The scenic flight to Lukla village.
- View from the foot of majestic Mount Everest, panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Viewpoints like Kalapathar, Gokyo Ri, Everest view hotel, Renjo La top, and amazing Gokyo lakes.
- Glacial lakes under Cho Oyu, the longest glacier system in the Himalayas called Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Sagarmatha National Park is a sanctuary of diverse flora and fauna.
- Museums and Monasteries like Sherpa museum, Tengboche monastery, Rimishung monastery, etc.
- The heroes of the Himalayas - Sherpa Lifestyle, Tibetan Buddhism experience.
Trip Overview
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes trek takes visitors through Everest Base Camp and Gokyo valley. This trek passes through the bank of Dudh Koshi river, forgotten valleys, traditional sherpa villages, colorful monasteries and the majestic mountains. Everest Base Camp lies at an elevation of 5,380 meters whereas Gokyo is 4,750 meters. It is situated in the west of the Khumbu region. A 5 days trek from EBC leads you to Gokyo valley. The beautiful valley provides substantial pastures for yaks to gaze during summer. The crystal clear lakes of this valley are simply stunning. EBC Gokyo lake trek passes through the off-beat route.
It is a challenging trekking adventure in Nepal. Major mountains seen on this trek are Everest, Cho Oyu, Amadablam, Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru, Kongde Ri, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and other hundreds of iconic peaks around Khumbu Himalayas. This trek offers dramatic glaciers, deep settlements, and several majestic mountains. Furthermore, landmarks of the Khumbu region, the Sherpa lifestyle, and many more.
This trek is a long and arduous three-week experience from the capital city of Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp. It includes some beautiful views of the Himalayas. The lakes are an especially welcome site, with their clear turquoise waters and surrounding dazzling peaks. The trek is strenuous and can be dangerous in the Khumbu valley due to thin air, heavy snow and hidden crevasses. Hiking boots are highly recommended. The Khumbu region is home to many ethnic groups all of whom have their own unique dress codes, food, customs and languages. The trek is a wonderful experience and an unforgettable journey through the most beautiful scenery, past green paddy fields, snow-capped peaks, distant Tibetan culture-influenced villages and on to Everest base camp.
Sherpas are the native of the Himalayas. Buddhists, Lamas, Monks and Nuns led by Rinpoches serve the mixed culture of Sherpa communities. It gives the unique amalgamation of the wonder of mountains and Sherpa customs. Their engagement in tourism activities is widely admired because of the altitude lifestyle, they have a strong ability to perform at the highest altitude.
The trek starts with the exciting flight to Lukla, trek to Phakding and further continuing to Namche bazaar, a gateway to Everest. The trail from Namche Bazaar takes you through Tengboche, Dingboche, Chukung and Kongma la pass. After crossing Kongma la pass, you reach Lobuche, Gorak shep and finally Everest Base Camp. Then visitors will follow the downhill route to Lobuche, Dzongla, and Cho la pass and make it up to Gokyo Valley. The return trail follows the trail to Lungde, Thame through Renjo la pass. The trek completes after getting back to Lukla.
The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo is before the monsoon starts (February, March, April and May) and after the monsoon season (September, October, November and December). The snowfall can be experienced in the winter season, it is better to look after the weather forecast before starting the trek.
Everest Base Camp (5364 M)
At the foot of Mount Everest lies one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the world. At an elevation of 8,848.86 meters, the mountain is incredible for the experiences it offers. Visitors can come here for unforgettable treks among glaciers and snowy peaks to explore Mount Everest from 5300 meters up!
Everest Base Camp is the most popular destination in the whole Khumbu region. A close view of the highest peak in the World can be seen during the Everest Base Camp Trek. Everest Base Camp is situated at an altitude of 5,364 meters above sea level and beside Mt. Everest's amazing views of the Khubutse, Pumori, Chagtse and Khumbu Icefall can be seen during the trek.
During your hike to Everest Base Camp, Gorakshep situated at an altitude of 5,164 meters above sea level is the last settlement area. There are limited numbers of teahouses and lodges at Gorak Shep. Meanwhile, 3 hours of walk is required to reach Gorak Shep from Lobuche. After having lunch at Gorak Shep you will leave your extra baggage here and hike towards the Base Camp. After exploring the Everest Base Camp you will return back to Gorak Shep for the overnight stay.
Successful climb up to Base Camp takes climbers through a range of difficult terrain, from Buddhist monasteries to freezing glaciers. Most would agree that this status as a difficult destination draws more attention than it deserves: while there are some dangers inherent in making the trek, they pale in comparison to what you face on an ascent of Everest itself. So, trekking to this place is not as dangerous as it is portrayed and can be easily done. However, some factors are there like altitude sickness, difficulty walking and health deterioration, but with proper health insurance and caution, trekking is truly amazing at Everest Base Camp.
Gokyo Lakes
Reaching Gokyo Lake after completing the Everest Base Camp is not an easy task. Gokyo Lake can be reached only after crossing the Cho La Pass situated at an altitude of 5,420 meters above sea level. Cho La Pass is one of the difficult passes in the Khumbu region of Nepal and crampons may be required because of the slippery route. After crossing the pass you will move towards the Thangnak. During the day you will also pass by some other lakes in the Goyo valley.
There are various lakes around the Gokyo Valley and six of them are marked as the main lake. Similarly, among these lakes, Thonak Lake is the largest. Gokyo Ri is situated at an altitude of 5,360 meters above sea level. 4 hours of the steep climb is required to reach Gokyo Ri from Gokyo lakes. Awe-inspiring views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu can be seen from the top of Gokyo Ri.
Adjoining Gokyo Lakes Trek
Gokyo Lakes are the Glacial oligotrophic lake systems in the Everest region of Nepal. The pristine beauty, attractive atmosphere and a sort of very new offbeat experience are the major attractions of the Gokyo Lakes Trek. Trekking in this area opens up a wonderful opportunity to explore the six major glacial lakes and a wide range of mountain vistas. Alongside this, the fusion of very distinct natural, unspoiled cultural and traditional values is an excellent part of the trek.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a mindblowing escape from the busy and commercial trekking route of the Everest region. The stunning Gokyo valley, the Sherpa villages, unprecedented sights of Mount Everest throughout the trek, remote campsites and various lakes are the perfect addition to the bucket list of adventure seekers and the Gokyo Lakes is the perfect package.
Gokyo Lakes lies in the Sagarmatha National Park of Nepal in the elevation range of 5700 m to 5000 m above sea level. The largest lake of all the Gokyo lakes is Thonak Lake. Several other attractions in the area include the astounding vistas of the mountains and the impeccable array of flora and fauna found in this area.
Where are Gokyo Lakes?
Gokyo Lakes are located in the Everest region of Nepal. Most trekkers combine the Gokyo Lakes Trek with the Everest Base Camp trek. However, the Gokyo Lakes Trek can be completed as a standalone trek. It is incredible, full of natural beauty and offers mind-blowing experiences.
The Gokyo Lakes lie in the northeastern part of Sagarmatha Zone in the Khumjung Village Development Committee of Solukhumbu district. The Gokyo Lakes comprise around 19 glacial lakes out of which Thonak Cho is the largest with an area of 65.07 Ha.
The main lake of Gokyo is Dudh Pokhari. It is also known as Gokyo Cho. The village of this area lies on the eastern shore of Gokyo Cho. The main lakes of this beautiful lake system are Thonak Cho, Dudh Pokhari, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho and Ngojumba Cho.
The Gokyo Lake system is very pristine, unspoiled and has a complete natural settlement. It is a perfect place to unleash your adventure spirit.
Gokyo Lakes Settlement
Gokyo Lakes are situated in the altitude range of 4700 to 5000 m above sea level. Some of these lakes are the world’s highest freshwater lakes. One of the major lakes, Dudh Pokhari, is situated at an altitude of 4750 m.
There are various lakes that are part of the Gokyo Glacial Lakes system. The lakes in this area have high hydrological value. It is because of the good environmental watershed sustainability. The waters in this lake arise from seepage, streams and various other sources.
The Ngozumpa glacier in the east, Taujon Lake, Longabanga Lake etc. are the major sources of water. It is said that the lakes are interlinked and connected via underground seepage water and have glaciers as a constant source of water resources. However, the direct connection is still a matter of scientific research.
The weather and climate of Gokyo Lakes differ with the seasonal changes. During the spring and autumn season, the weather is pleasant and you can witness the spectacular views of the region. But during the summer season, the rainfall and slippery trail make it difficult to trek in this area. The winter season gets more demanding and difficult as the trail might get covered in snow, making it difficult to trek.
Gokyo Lakes is the off-the-beaten-path trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal. It is one of the best trekking areas that has been admired for its impeccable beauty. The glimpses of various eight-thousanders and several other mountain peaks in this area are one of the best parts of the trekking. The trek can be combined with the Everest Base Camp trek to make it more adventurous.
Major Attractions around Gokyo Lakes
The lakes in Gokyo are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. During the time of Janai Purnima, more than 500 people take a holy dip in the lakes. The Gokyo region is worshipped as the abode of Naag Devata. Naag Devata is the god of snakes. And in Hindu belief, Snakes are sacred and worshipped during the time of Naag Panchami to avoid attack from the snake.
There are temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva in the western corner of the lake. The fauna in this region is protected traditionally and it is believed that the birds and wildlife should never be harmed in this area. Gokyo Lakes are one of the best places to trek in Nepal. The spectacular views of the mountains under the clear sky, beautiful sunrise and sunsets throughout the trek and vibrant mountain atmosphere lures the mind of every trekker.
Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Lakes are the major attractions of the trek. There are various lakes in this area. The sparkling pristine water and amusing atmosphere around the lakes attract a lot of people and are one of the major attractions of the trek. Gokyo Lakes are designated as a ram site area to conserve and protect the natural ambience of the lake.
Gokyo Ri
Gokyo Ri lies at an altitude of 5357 m above sea level, making a perfect vantage point just above Gokyo Lake. From here, you can explore the mind-blowing beauty of astounding Himalayan peaks and the very pristine and natural surroundings.
This vantage point allows you to witness the spectacular Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu mountains. This is also the turnaround point of the Gokyo Lakes trek and trekkers retrace the trail after exploring the beauty of the Himalayas.
Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park is a natural world heritage site situated in the Eastern region of Nepal. It is popular for its world-renowned mount Everest, Gokyo Lakes and various other attractions of the Khumbu area.
There are various types of flora and fauna found in this region. This Himalayan wildlife habitat consists of more than 208 bird species including Impeyan pheasant, bearded vulture, snowcock, alpine chough, numerous Ungulates, and Indian leopards.
This National Park boasts a wide range of floral species such as fir, Himalayan birch and rhododendron. Juniper and rhododendron, Mosses and lichens and about 1000 floral species in total.
Sherpa culture and Lifestyle
The Sherpa culture and Lifestyle are another major attraction of the Gokyo Lakes trek. Traversing into this sherpa abode is an excellent way to know about the world-famous Sherpa and their Himalayan lifestyle in the high mountains of Nepal.
Trekking to the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes
The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek are a wonderful combination of two trekking areas. In this trek, you can witness various mountains of the Khumbu region and get an opportunity to explore the diversity in culture, mainly the Sherpas. The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek are rewarding in terms of the experiences you get throughout the trek. You can explore various monasteries, Buddhist-influenced culture and traditions, beautiful valleys, a wide range of flora and fauna and world-renowned Mount Everest and Gokyo Lakes.
Our EBC Gokyo lake can be started after sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. During this day you will be exploring 4 sites among the 7 UNESCO World heritage sites inside Kathmandu Valley. Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Kathmandu Durbar square are the heritage sites that you can explore. Meanwhile, an extra day before the trek can also be used as the trek preparation day.
The trek starts with the exciting flight to Lukla, trek to Phakding and further continuing to Namche bazaar, a gateway to Everest. The trail from Namche Bazaar takes you through Tengboche, Dingboche, Chukung and Kongma la pass. After crossing Kongma la pass, you reach Lobuche, Gorak shep and finally Everest Base Camp. Then visitors will follow the downhill route to Lobuche, Dzongla, and Cho la pass and make it up to Gokyo Valley.
After reaching the Gokyo Valley you will pass by different lakes before reaching the Gokyo village. Gokyo village is one of the main destinations of the Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes trek. You will stay overnight here and move towards Gokyo Ri early in the morning. The trek completes after getting back to Lukla. EBC Gokyo lake trek passes through the off-beat route. The three passes connect the three valleys of the Khumbu region, Bhotekoshi, Gokyo and Imja Tse. All three valleys are unique on their own and give you a different experience. It is a challenging trekking adventure in Nepal.
Major mountains seen on this trek are Everest, Cho Oyu, Amadablam, Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru, Kongde Ri, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and other hundreds of iconic peaks around Khumbu Himalaya. This trek offers dramatic glaciers, deep settlements, and several majestic mountains.
Difficulty
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek is a moderately difficult trek. It requires crossing several high passes, so you are prone to altitude sickness. However, the daily trek distance is about 5-6 hours and there is enough acclimatization in the itinerary, the altitude sickness problem can be mitigated to a good extent.
Trekking in the Khumbu region is considered challenging because of the high altitude. The maximum altitude you will be gaining in this trek is about 5400 m above sea level, so, there are chances of sickness. Get more information here.
Trekking in the Gokyo Lakes area is difficult in terms of amenities and good accessibility. However, trekking in the remote mountains has its own beauty. So, you can brave the utmost beauty the Gokyo Lakes has to offer.
Best time to visit EBC and Gokyo Lakes
Trekking in the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes area is one of the best experiences in the Khumbu and Gokyo regions. The tranquil atmosphere, sweet serenity of the lakes and a very spiritual ambience in the celestial mountain region of Nepal is probably the most fascinating thing to explore.
The Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes trek offers an amalgamation of Sherpa culture and traditions, mountain beauty and astounding lakes. Apart from that, the sunrise views seen every morning from the multiple vantage points throughout the trek are a very wonderful part to explore. The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes can be visited during the Autumn and Spring season.
Autumn Season
The months of September, October and November are Autumn seasons in Nepal. These months are favorable for trekking in mountain areas as the climate is pleasant and the atmosphere is attractive during these months. The sky is clear during the day time. However, during the morning and evening, a little cold can be observed. The moderate level of temperature and favorable climatic conditions makes the Autumn Season the best time for Gokyo Lakes Trek in Nepal.
Spring Season
The months of March, April and May are Spring seasons in Nepal. This is also the best time for trekking in the upper mountain region of Nepal. The climate is favorable during these months. And the wide array of flora and fauna, and lush greenery can be observed during these months. The climate is pleasant and the temperature is significantly moderate in Spring.
Winter Season
The winter months are frosty and cold in Nepal. The months of December, January and February are winter months in Nepal. During these months, trekking is not preferred as there are chances of heavy snowfall and the extreme cold makes it very demanding. Also, there are chances of losing the trail because of heavy snowfall in the upper elevations. The winter season is the best for Gokyo Lake ice skating. It is organized in the month of February in the Gokyo Lake area. So, it would be an incredible time to enjoy the winter activities in the Himalayan atmosphere.
Summer Season
Summer is not a favorable time to trek in the higher elevation of Nepal. The months of June, July and August are Summer months in Nepal. During these months, there is a high chance of rainfall making it unfavorable for trekking activities in the mountain areas. The trails get slippery, also the leeches on the trail are another major problem during these months. There lies a chance of avalanches and road blockage due to heavy rainfall in some trekking areas. So, summer is not a favorable season for trekking in Nepal.
Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu Arrival | Welcome to Nepal!
Kathmandu Cultural Sightseeing.
Flight to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Trek from Phakding to Namche
Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar
Trek from Namche to Debuche
Trek from Debuche to Dingboche
Acclimatization in Dingboche
Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche
Trek to EBC and return to Gorakshep
Trek to Dzongla
Trek to Gokyo Lake
Exploration Day at Gokyo
Trek to Dole
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Fly back to Kathmandu
Leisure in Kathmandu
Departure
Trip Guide
The given information about the Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek is in-depth, feel free to contact us 24/7 for any kind of assistance. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. We aim to offer the best possible travel experience to the customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where is Gokyo lake located?
Gokyo Lake is situated in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. It lies in the northeastern part of the Sagarmatha zone in the Khumjung Village Development Committee.
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Can you swim in Gokyo Lake?
Swimming in Gokyo Lake is very challenging because of the frosty water and climate there. Some people have attempted swimming in the lake. However, swimming in Gokyo lake is not a preferred activity. It can be life-threatening at times.
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How to reach Gokyo Lake?
One way to reach Gokyo lake is by trekking via Namche Bazaar to Gokyo. However, a helicopter flight can be taken to reach Gokyo valley. The trekking to Gokyo Lakes can be combined with the Everest Base Camp.
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Are there fish in Gokyo Lake?
Gokyo Lakes are mostly oligotrophic lakes. The low nutrient concentration in these types of lakes causes very few aquatic floral and faunal species. For a fish to survive in a lake, it needs to have some nutrient concentrations. But the Gokyo Lakes have very less nutrients making it very difficult for aquatic species to survive. So, there are very few chances to spot any aquatic species in Gokyo Lakes.
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How do I get from Kathmandu to Gokyo Lakes?
From Kathmandu, you can take a flight to Lukla Airport and further trekking to Namche Bazaar will open up a new trail to Gokyo Lake. Further trekking of about 2-3 days can take you to Gokyo Lakes from Namche Bazaar.
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How difficult is Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek?
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek is difficult trekking due to the long time of trekking and it involves walking at high elevation. For people, who are willing to brave this trek should plan their journey beforehand and start working on their physical fitness.
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How long is EBC Gokyo Lakes Trek?
The adjoining trek to Gokyo Lakes from Everest Base Camp takes about additional 5 days. So, the total trekking elongates to make the total duration 19 days. Having a good vacation of about 3 weeks can make it ideal trekking in the Everest region of Nepal.
Services Includes
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All arrival and departure at Kathmandu airport as mentioned.
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Flight transfer between Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu as mentioned in the itinerary.
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3 star deluxe hotel accommodation in Kathmandu.
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Lodge and teahouse accommodation during the trek.
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Daily breakfast throughout the trip.
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Lunch and Dinner from trek start day to trek end day.
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All necessary paperwork. (Required Permits)
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An experienced and English/Hindi speaking licensed trekking guide.
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Guide’s salary, food, accommodation and allowances.
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Duffle bags to carry goods and trekking route maps – if necessary.
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Farewell Nepali dinner on your last night in Kathmandu.
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All government and local taxes.
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Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid by the traveler's insurance company. (Insurance is highly recommended)
Services Excludes
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Personal expenses.
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Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee if there is Kathmandu sightseeing and additional stay.
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Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
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International flight ticket.
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Travel health insurance. (highly recommended)
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Tips for the guide, porter and driver.
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Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
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Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
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Hot water, shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.
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Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the including section.
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Porter during the trek. (a porter can carry around 20/22 KG of baggage)
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