Everest Gokyo Lake Trek

Trip ID: UM4454
Destination Everest
Duration 13 Days
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging Persons
Group Size 2-16
Maximum Altitude 5375m.
Best Time Spring and Autumn
Activities Trekking / Hiking
Accommodation Hotel & Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation Private
Start from Kathmandu
End at Kathmandu

Trip Overview

The Everest Gokyo Lake Trek offers a breathtaking alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp trek, taking you through the stunning Gokyo Valley and up to the shimmering turquoise waters of the five sacred Gokyo Lakes. This off-the-beaten-path adventure rewards trekkers with dramatic Himalayan vistas, including panoramic views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – a vantage point even more impressive than Kala Patthar. Crossing through lush rhododendron forests, Sherpa villages, yak pastures, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier – the longest glacier in the Himalayas – this trek delivers a rich combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude adventure. The friendly Sherpa communities, peaceful monasteries, and spiritual ambiance add a soulful layer to this life-changing journey. Ideal for those who want stunning views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam without the crowds, the Gokyo Lake Trek is a magical Himalayan experience for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers alike.

Trip Highlight

  • Scenic Flight to Lukla
  • Trek Through Sherpa Villages
  • Panoramic Views from Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
  • Explore the Gokyo Lakes
  • Witness the Ngozumpa Glacier
  • Namche Bazaar – Gateway to Everest
  • Peaceful Alternative to EBC Trek
  • Cultural & Spiritual Encounters
  • Adventurous High-Altitude Trekking
  • Unforgettable Photography Opportunities

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)

    Meet our team at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Briefing with your trekking guide in the evening.
    Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

    Enjoy a half-day city tour covering major cultural landmarks: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. Spend the afternoon preparing for the trek.
    Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Day 3 : Flight to Lukla (2,840m) – Trek to Phakding (2,610m) | 3.5 hours

    Early morning scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Khumbu region. Begin your trek with a downhill walk to the riverside village of Phakding.
    Overnight: Lodge in Phakding

  • Day 4 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) | 5.5 hours

    Cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, and ascend gradually to reach the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar.

    Overnight: Lodge in Namche Bazaar

  • Day 5 : Acclimatization Day in Namche (3,440m)

    Hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village for altitude adaptation and scenic views. Explore the local museum and markets.
    Overnight: Lodge in Namche Bazaar

  • Day 6 : Trek to Dole (4,110m) | 6.5 hours

    Climb above the tree line through rhododendron and juniper forests. Enjoy dramatic views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku along the way.
    Overnight: Lodge in Dole

  • Day 7 : Trek to Machhermo (4,470m) | 4.5 hours

    A steady climb takes you through yak pastures and small settlements. Arrive at the peaceful village of Machhermo.
    Overnight: Lodge in Machhermo

  • Day 8 : Trek to Gokyo (4,790m) | 4.5 hours

    Ascend alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier. Explore the first and second Gokyo lakes before reaching the third lake beside Gokyo Village.
    Overnight: Lodge in Gokyo

  • Day 9 : Gokyo Ri Hike (5,357m) – Trek to Dole (4,110m) | 6.5 hours

    Early morning climb to Gokyo Ri for a spectacular sunrise view over Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. Descend to Dole via Gokyo.
    Overnight: Lodge in Dole

  • Day 10 : Trek to Manju (2,840m) | 5.5 hours

    Descend through Sherpa villages, passing waterfalls and pine forests en route to Manju.
    Overnight: Lodge in Manju

  • Day 11 : Trek to Lukla (2,840m) | 5.5 hours

    Final day of trekking with a gradual walk back to Lukla. Celebrate the completion of your journey.
    Overnight: Lodge in Lukla

  • Day 12 : Fly to Kathmandu

    Scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel and rest.
    Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Day 13 : Final Departure

    Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Trip Cost Inclusion

  • International and domestic airport pick-up and drop-off in Nepal
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) plan – twin-sharing basis
  • Accommodation in local teahouses during the trek (twin-sharing basis)
  • Local Government Entry Permit (Trek Card)
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit (Everest Permit)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Daily breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) – vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available from the teahouse menu
  • 1 farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a traditional Nepalese restaurant with a cultural dance show, hosted by the Adventure Friendship Team
  • First-aid kit carried by Adventure Friendship team
  • 1 duffel bag provided by Adventure Friendship to carry your trekking luggage
  • Experienced, English-speaking licensed trekking guide
  • Insurance for guide and porter, including emergency evacuation and medical expenses
  • All meals for guide and porter during the trek
  • Guide and porter salary as per industry standards, recommended by tourism associations
  • Porter service for luggage carrying (1 porter per 2 guests, max 20 kg per porter)

Trip Cost Exclusion

  • International flight tickets
  • Domestic flight tickets (Kathmandu or Ramechhap to/from Lukla)
  • Nepal visa fees (payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, drivers, and staff
  • Expenses incurred due to extra days beyond the scheduled itinerary (due to weather, flight delays, etc.)
  • Personal expenses, including drinks, laundry, souvenirs, gear rental, hot showers, WiFi, and electronic charging
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel insurance (must cover both medical and emergency evacuation, with a minimum coverage of USD 100,000)
  • Extra transfer costs for transportation between Kathmandu and Ramechhap (in case of Lukla flight via Ramechhap)

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