Everest Gokyo Lake Trek
Everest Gokyo Lake trek combines the best of the natural and cultural aspects of the Khumbu region which is located at an altitude of 5000 meters from sea level. It is the ideal choice to experience the unique culture, tradition, and religion with wonderful mountain views. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan range including Mt Everest as well as the serene and picturesque Gokyo Lake. Follow a trail that leads through traditional Sherpa village, alpine forest, and across high mountain passes, including the famous Cho La Pass. The Gokyo Lakes are a series of six glacial lakes located at an altitude of 5000 meters.
Each lake is known for its unique beauty and crystal clear water with the largest lake which is the most popular among trekkers. The trek also offers opportunities to explore the local culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa people who are known for their hospitality and mountaineering expertise. Along the way, trekkers can visit monasteries, and traditional markets, and experience the local cuisine. It is a challenging yet rewarding experience that offers breathtaking views, cultural immersion, and a sense of adventure for those willing to undertake it. On this trek, we get a chance to see a mesmerizing view of the mountain including Makalu and Cho Oyu.
Trip Highlights
- Stunning snow-capped mountains including Mt Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu
- Offer a tranquil and serene atmosphere
- Explore one of the largest glaciers, Khumbu Glacier
- Passes through several Sherpa villages, and experience Sherpa culture and tradition
- Involve steep ascents and descents, crossing high passes, and walking on rocky and rugged terrain
- Offer breathtaking Mountain Views, unique cultural experiences, and a challenging trekking experience
Can we see Mt Everest from Everest Gokyo Lake Trek?
Yes, we can see Mt Everest from the Everest Gokyo Lake trek. The trek offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. During the trek, you will climb to the top of Gokyo Ri, which is located at an altitude of 5357 meters above sea level. From the top of Gokyo Ri, you will be able to see panoramic views of the surrounding mountain including a clear view of Mt Everest.
However, it is worth noting that weather conditions can affect the visibility of the mountains, so there is a chance that you may not be able to see Mt Everest clearly on some days. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the weather forecast before starting the trek and plan accordingly.
Is Everest Gokyo Lake Trek perfect for beginners?
While it is not considered to be one of the more difficult treks in the region, it is still a challenging trek that requires a certain level of physical fitness and experience. For beginners, it is recommended to start with an easier trek before attempting a more challenging trek like the Everest Gokyo Lake trek. That being said if you are physically fit and have some experience with high-altitude trekking that can be a great choice. The trek offers a stunning view of the Himalayas, including Mt Everest, and takes you through beautiful landscapes and traditional Sherpa villages.
However, it is important to remember that the trek involves walking several hours a day, often at high altitudes and may include steep ascents and descents. Overall, it can be a great adventure for those with some trekking experience; beginners should start with easier treks to build up their fitness and experience before attempting this trek.
How long is the Everest Gokyo Lake Trek?
The trek is usually 13 days long, depending on the specific itinerary and pace of the trekker. The trek typically covers a distance of about 50 to 60 kilometers and involves hiking up to a high altitude of over 5000 meters above sea level. The exact duration of the trek can vary depending on factors such as the fitness level of the trekker, acclimatization needs, weather conditions, and any rest days incorporated into the itinerary.
Right season for the Everest Gokyo Lake Trek
The best season for this beautiful trek is generally considered to be from late September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, with mild temperatures and fewer chances of rainfalls or snowfall. The view of the surrounding mountain including Mt Everest is also usually at its best during these months.
In particular, the months of March and May are popular times to trek as the rhododendron flowers are in bloom, adding to the natural beauty of the trek. The months from late September to November are also a great time to trek as the skies are clearer, and there are fewer chances of precipitation.
However, it is always best to check the weather condition before planning your trek, and it is important to prepare for the cold temperature at higher elevations, regardless of the season.
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu Valley
The team of Blue Sheep Trek will be there for you to pick up and welcome you. From the airport, you will take you through Thamel and you will take some rest at the hotel. At the hotel, there will be a guide with a brief description of the trek.
Day 02: Scenic fly to Lukla to move to Phakding (2650m /3hrs)
From Kathmandu Valley, we will take a short flight toward Lukla which takes almost 30 to 40 minutes. After 30 to 40 minutes of flight toward Lukla, we will take some rest and from Lukla, we will move toward Phakding. From Lukla, we will follow the Dudh Koshi River to get to Phakding.
Day 03: Walk to Namche Bazaar (3440m/ 6hrs)
On the third day of trekking, we will continue trekking along the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi River. On this day, we get a chance to enter Sagarmatha National Park home to rare and endangered animals. The trails offer a stunning view of the Himalayas and pass through small villages and dense forests. On this day, we get a chance to know about the lifestyle of the high Himalayan people.
Day 04: Rest day in Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is the biggest Sherpa land of Nepal where you get to know about the culture and traditions of the Sherpa people. This valley is surrounded by beautiful scenery and there are several short hikes up to Everest Viewpoint. On this small valley, we get to explore the Sherpa Museum which features exhibits on mountaineering, Sherpa culture, and the flora and fauna of the area.
Day 05: Namche Bazaar to Dole (4000m / 6hrs)
The trail passes through lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir trees, crosses several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, and enjoys stunning views of Mt Everest and other peaks. On the day trek, we get a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Khumbu region. Today, the journey will take you through beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
Day 06: Dole to Machhermo (4470m / 4 to 5hrs)
From Dole, the trail climbs gradually toward Machhermo, which is situated at an altitude of 4040 meters above sea level. Along the way, you will pass through several small villages including Luza and Lhabarma. You also cross the Dudh Koshi River several times and enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountain including Cho Oyu and Thamserku. The trail passes through a dense forest of rhododendron, pine, and oak trees, as well as several small villages.
Day 07: Machhermo to Gokyo valley (4800m / 4 to 5hrs)
The trail is pristine turquoise lakes and panoramic views of the Himalayas. On this day of trekking, we get a chance to see a mesmerizing view of peaks including Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, and many more. Along the way, the trail is gradual and rocky where get an opportunity to explore Khumbu Glacier.
Day 08: Hike up Gokyo Ri and back to Machhermo (4470m)
Today, we will hike up Gokyo Ri. The hike TO Gokyo Ri typically begins from the village of Gokyo. From Gokyo, the hike to the Gokyo Ri takes about 3 to 4 hours depending on the pace of the trekker and the altitude acclimatization. After hiking up to Gokyo Ri, we will back to Gokyo Valley and then from Gokyo valley, we will move toward Machhermo and going to spend the overnight here.
Day 09: Machhermo to Namche Bazaar (3440m / 6hrs)
Continue along the way from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar, the trail is relatively easy and follows the Dudh Koshi River. From Machhermo, we will descend to the village of Phortse Thangna, and from here; you will need to cross a bridge and climb uphill. Before reaching Namche Bazaar, we have to cross beautiful Sherpa villages like Dole, Phortse Thangna, and Sanasa.
Day 10: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2800m / 6 to 7hrs)
The trekking trail starts from Namche Bazaar and descends towards the Dudh Koshi River. You have to cross a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River and cross the bridge and continue the descent. After some hours of walking, we will reach Lukla and going to spend the last night in the Everest region.
Day 11: Fly back to Kathmandu Valley
Lukla is a small town and from Lukla, we will fly back to Kathmandu Valley. It takes almost 30 minutes to fly from Lukla toward Kathmandu valley and the view of the Himalayas from the plane is breathtaking. From the domestic airport, you will take to your hotel and take some rest. If you want to explore the Kathmandu valley then you can take a taxi and explore all over the Kathmandu valley.
Day 12: Final departure
Our team and the guide who is with you on your trekking journey will be at the international airport to see you off. We will say our goodbye and hope that you will give us an opportunity to trek with you all over Nepal.
Route Map
Manual Note :
Trip Reviews
Name: John
JohnAnnapurna Base Camp Trek with Sukman
“The Annapurna Base Camp trek was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The scenery was breathtaking and the people were incredibly friendly. It was a challenging trek, but well worth the effort.”
Name: Sarah
CanadaABC trek with Bluesheep trek
“I absolutely loved the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The scenery was incredible, from lush forests to towering snow-capped peaks. The highlight was definitely reaching base camp and seeing Annapurna South up close.”
Name: Mike
AustraliaAnnapurna Trek with Sukman
“The Annapurna Base Camp trek was an amazing experience. The trail was well-maintained and easy to follow, and the tea houses along the way were cozy and welcoming. The view from base camp was unbelievable – I felt like I was on top of the world!”
Name: Cecelia Muller
USAAnnapurna Circuit, March 2023
I did the Annapurna Circuit this past March and it’s probably the best thing I have done and will ever do in my life. Don’t get me wrong, it was definitely challenging – as someone who loves her hot showers – but Sukman made the whole process such a breeze. He found our group teahouses and called ahead of time to reserve our slots. He also made sure we went at a reasonable pace and doled out lunch and tea breaks as the group needed it. At higher elevations, he was even more careful to pay attention to the elevation we gained each day and each person’s symptoms (or more hopefully, lack thereof) to avoid altitude sickness.
Name: Patrick Wasil
USAAnnapurna Circuit Trek
I hiked the Annapurna Circuit in March 2023. Sukman went above and beyond to make sure that everything went smoothly. The hike itself certainly was challenging, but Sukman made it as easy as possible. He has extensive knowledge of the trail, towns, and tea houses along the way. He called ahead to reserve rooms for us in the best tea houses because they can get crowded depending on the season. He curated tea and meal breaks as well. I particularly liked how closely he monitored the health and status of everyone in our group keeping an eye out for any symptoms of altitude sickness and adjusting the hike accordingly. Overall, Sukman was a fantastic guide on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and I will definitely utilize his services again on my next trip to Nepal!
Name: Uli
GermanyUpper Mustang
I trekked with Shukman from Blue Sheep Trek for 10 days in Upper Mustang. Shukman is a very nice guide. He has a good feeling what his customers need. I recommend trekking with Blue Sheep Trek. Upper Mustang is a incredible beautiful place. Thank you Shukman!
Name: Anouk
We’ve had a lovely time in the Kanchenjunga area! The trek was beautiful and challenging, but our guide Sukman made sure that everything was fixed and taken care of, so we could enjoy every moment of it!