13 Days Gokyo Lake Trek- 2026
Gokyo Lake Trek is among the most stunning and serene trek in the Everest region. That combines the wonders of nature, the charm of the local culture, and a high-altitude adventure. Moreover, the classic route to Everest Base Camp has more crowds. But this trek trail leads you into a peaceful Gokyo valley. The place is known for its blue ice-fed lakes, the rugged landscapes, and the quiet trails. Those who wish to have stunning Himalayan views without the crowd will definitely find it to be one of the most satisfying choices.
The journey usually starts with a scenic flight to Lukla. The actual trek will start with an easy uphill walk through the villages of the Sherpa people like Phakding and Namche Bazaar. In the middle of Sagarmatha National Park, you are amazed with a lot of wonders. The deep valleys formed by glaciers, bright red rhododendron forests, and traditional stone houses all your way.
Your real reward on this trek comes when you arrive at the Gokyo region. The chain of six sacred Gokyo Lakes whose waters are the purest and the clearest, coming from glaciers and nestle in the lap of the white mountains. Among these six lakes, the third one, Dudh Pokhari, located right next to Gokyo village, is the most photographed one. This village is the place to stay and serves as the base for further exploration for trekkers.
The challenging part of this trek is also its most satisfying moment, where you ascend to Gokyo Ri (5,357m). And Climb through steep terrain is highly rewarding. The summit view is often praise, but the panoramic view from this point is the best one in the entire Himalayan range. From the top, the sight is truly spectacular, you can see the towering above 8000m mountain giants Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu . Below, you can see the beautiful Gokyo lake and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The effort you put into the climb and the view from the top create a memory, you will never forget.
Highlights
- Scenic flight to Lukla, offering thrilling aerial views of the Himalayas.
- Gradual ascent through Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Phakding, and Dole.
- Less crowded trails compared to the classic Everest Base Camp route, offering a peaceful trekking experience.
- Exploration of the six sacred Gokyo Lakes, known for their turquoise, crystal-clear waters.
- Stunning views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m) considered one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the Everest region.
- Sight of four 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
- Walk along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.
- Unique Sherpa culture and warm hospitality throughout the trek.
- Rhododendron forests, alpine valleys, and dramatic mountain scenery along the route.
- Serene and spiritual atmosphere, with the lakes considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Ideal alternative to EBC, offering equally majestic views with fewer crowds.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft)
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Phakding (2610 m)
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286 ft)
Day 04: Acclimatisation Day at Namche
Day 05: Trek to Dole (4,030m / 13,222ft)
Day 06: Trek to Machhermo (4,470m / 14,665ft)
Day 07: Trek to Gokyo valley (4,800m / 15,748ft)
Day 08 : Early morning trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft) – back to Gokyo.
Day 09: Gokyo to Machhermo Trek (4,700m / 15,420ft) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft)
Day 10: Trek from Machhermo to Namchebazaar (2,860m / 9,383ft)
Day 11: Trek to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft)
Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft)
Upon arrival at the mountainous lands of Nepal after your long flight we’ll be there to welcome you. As you arrive, our staff will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Take rest and prepare for the journey. If you want, stroll through the streets of Thamel and shop for trekking basics. In the evening, you will meet your guide, where he will provide a short description about the trek.
- Distance covered: 0 km
- Maximum altitude:1,350m
- Overnight stay: Kathmandu
- Trekking hours: 0
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Phakding (2610 m)
arly this morning our trek guide will escort you to the airport for your flight to Lukla from Kathmandu TIA. You will simply be amazed by view of Himalayas from above. You then land at lukla airport and follow the trail that runs along the bank of Dudh Koshi River. En route, you will trek through the sherpa villages of Chheplung and Ghat. Overnight at the hotel in Pakhding.
- Distance covered: approx. 15 km
- Maximum altitude: 2,860m
- Overnight stay: Phakding
- Trekking hours: 3–4 hours
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286 ft)
Today you will be trekking along the Dudh Koshi River passing through many suspension bridges including the well known Hillary Bridge. The trek goes up through Sagarmatha National Park, via pine forests and the village of Sherpas. There is a strenuous climb before reaching Namche, a central hub of Khumbu. On a clear day, you will get to see your first view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.
- Distance covered: approx. 12 km
- Maximum altitude: 3,440m
- Overnight stay: Namche Bazaar
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours
Acclimatisation Day at Namche
Acclimatization is very important as you go to higher altitudes. For better acclimatization today you will hike to Everest view Hotel at the height 3,880 meters. From there you can enjoy the magnificent views of towering Mt.Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. We can also walk through the Khunde village for a glance of the daily local life where monasteries and schools are located. The rest of the day is at leisure to unwind, enjoy cafes, shop for souvenirs etc.
- Distance covered: approx. 5 km
- Maximum altitude: 3,880m
- Overnight stay: Namche Bazaar
- Trekking hours: 3–4 hours
Trek to Dole (4,030m / 13,222ft)
Upon leaving Namche, the trail climbs gently through forest and hills. You pass through villages on the way. Prayer flags are now flying from trees and rocks. Dole is a very quiet village surrounded by the steep peaks, so it’s a good place to relax in the lap of Himalayas. Today’s trek isn’t especially hard, and you’re distracted by the magnificent mountains and glaciers around you.
- Distance covered: approx. 11 km
- Maximum altitude: 4,030m
- Overnight stay: Dole
- Trekking hours: 5–6 hours
Trek to Machhermo (4,470m / 14,665ft)
Today from dole onwards, the trail becomes quite steep as you near the top. You hike the moraine paths, going from the smallest villages. Machhermo is the beautiful village in Himalayas where you can enjoy breathtaking View of Gokyo Ri and other mountains around the region. Here, you’ll need to acclimatize and allow your body to adapt to the thinner air before trekking over the high passes. It is a pleasant village despite being small, with friendly people and also accommodates a couple of teahouses to enjoy some rest.
- Distance covered: approx. 6 km
- Maximum altitude: 4,470m
- Overnight stay: Machhermo
- Trekking hours: 4–5 hours
Trek to Gokyo valley (4,800m / 15,748ft)
The first day begins with a walk up the moraines of the glacier and then passes on to gentle ridges to reach Gokyo village. Where theBright blue Gokyo Lakes, reflecting the snowy peaks surrounding them. The third lake, Dudh Pokhari, is the most famous and most photographed. At Gokyo, you can relax by the lake and wander into the lake’s beauty. It’s one of the really nice days on the trek.
- Distance covered: approx. 7 km
- Maximum altitude: 4,800m
- Overnight stay: Gokyo
- Trekking hours: 4–5 hours
Early morning trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft) – back to Gokyo.
We wake up early in the morning while it is still dark and trek to the top of Gokyo Ri. The climb is quite steep though, but more rewarding. Above: For miles in all directions and this is what you get from the top of Gokyo Ri. It offers views of four of the planet’s tallest mountains: Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Lhotse. Far below, the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier. After spending some time, taking photos and admiring the scenery you descend to Gokyo village for a bit of rest and sleep.
- Distance covered: approx. 4 km
- Maximum altitude: 5,357m
- Overnight stay: Gokyo
- Trekking hours: 5–6 hours
Gokyo to Machhermo Trek (4,700m / 15,420ft) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft)
This day is one of the hardest days in your trek and at the same time one of the most rewarding days. You climb Renjo La Pass, through rocky area and glacial region. You can look across from the top and gaze at Everest and all of the surrounding peaks, and it is simply stunning. After enjoying with the nature, slowly descend down to peaceful village, you will spend over night in warm tea house.
- Distance covered: approx. 9 km
- Maximum altitude: 5,360m
- Overnight stay: Machhermo
- Trekking hours: 7–8 hours
Trek from Machhermo to Namchebazaar (2,860m / 9,383ft)
The trek from Machhermo to Namchebazaar is downhill. You pass through the villages of Thame and Marlung, enjoy several different landscapes as you descent down to Lukla. As you descend down you cross suspension bridges and walk along the valley of the Dudh Koshi River. Evening, we celebrate the time of achievement of Gokyo Ri Trek with all our trekking team.
- Distance covered: approx. 13 km
- Maximum altitude: 4,700m
- Overnight stay: Namche Bazaar
- Trekking hours: 6–7 hours
Trek to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft)
This is your last trekking day in the Khumbu region. The day starts after breakfast, you start from Namche Bazaar going down amidst pine woods. On the trail, you can take one last look at the Himalayan Foothills and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere in this area. Prayer wheels spinning in the breeze, prayer flags flapping away. You will reach lukla in the late afternoon. That’s the end of your trek now.
Distance covered: approx. 18 km Maximum altitude: 3,440m Overnight stay: Lukla Driving hours: 0 Trekking hours: 6–7 hours
Fly back to Kathmandu
You will be taken on a morning short flight to Kathmandu. You then have the afternoon at your own to shop for souvenirs. Or, get a farewell Nepali dinner which adds the perfect touch to your epic Himalayan adventure.
Distance covered: 0 km Maximum altitude: 1,350m Overnight stay: Kathmandu Driving hours: 0 Trekking hours: 0
Departure from Kathmandu
On this final day, we will manage the necessary transfer for your departure. With this, your superb Himalayas tour gets concluded.
Distance covered: 0 km Maximum altitude: 1,350m Overnight stay: Kathmandu Driving hours: 0 Trekking hours: 0
Cost
- 3-star hotel standard twin/double room accommodation in Kathmandu for 2 nights including breakfast. Private rooms can be available for an additional cost.
- During the trek, the guests will be provided with twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation for 10 nights. In Lukla, Phakding, and Namche, the toilets will be attached.
- During the trek, all the meals will be provided (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Purified drinking water is to be provided during the trek. The purification will be done through water filters or water purification tablets.
- The farewell dinner will be arranged on the last night in Nepal.
- All the international and domestic airport transfers will be done.
- Round-trip domestic air travel is included with the flight between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla.
- Shared tourist vehicle transportation from Kathmandu to Manthali and vice versa.
- An experienced, government-licensed, first-aid-trained, English-speaking, locally hired trekking guide will be provided to the client(s). (In case of groups larger than seven people, two guides will accompany the group.)
- During the trek, porters will help in carrying the luggage, and for every two clients, one porter will be assigned.
- Complete coverage of the wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all the trekking staff.
- The required permits include Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Permit, Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee, and TIMS card.
- Food for lunch and dinner in Kathmandu is not part of the package.
- The price doesn’t include international flights and airport departure taxes.
- The visa to Nepal is not part of the package (You can obtain it upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport: USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, or USD 125 for 90 days).
- Besides that, travel insurance and emergency rescue at high altitude are not included in the price.
- There is no mention of drinks being included in the price, whether it is bottled or boiled water.
- Trekking staff and drivers will be grateful for your tips, which are not included in the price.
- Personal trekking gear and equipment are not included in the price.
- If you have any other expenses that are not listed in the “Price Includes” section, they will be your own.
Reviews
Simply put “WOW”.
Simply put “WOW”. I have never met more responsible people in my life. They made sure every step of the way was taken care of from the drivers, tour guides, trek guides, porters and hotel accommodations. I highly recommend this company for its hard working, responsible and friendly people. The people make a company. Special thanks to: Anuja “the planner”, Chitiz & Ashmir “the ultimate trekking guides” and finally Robin “the enthusiastic jungle bird watcher”.
Nick Devincenzo
San Diego, CaliforniaPlan Holidays did a fantastic job on our whole trip!
Plan Holidays did a fantastic job on our whole trip! We did the trip that included time in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park and a 5-day trek around Annapurna. From the moment we stepped off the plane, we had guides showing us around and everything was perfectly planned for us. Maila, our trekking guide was amazing and had so much knowledge! It was a great trip!
Autumn Wonderlich
Boston, MassachusettsIncredibly well organized
This company was amazing. Incredibly well organized. I felt safe and spoiled. Our airport transports were always early and waiting for us. All of our reservations for our accommodations and busses were perfect. The temple tour we took was super fun and educational. Some of our luggage got stuck in our layover country and between this travel agency and our hotel they were able to get it for us and deliver it the next day. We also had a 10month old traveling with us and they made sure that our accommodation and travel plans were safe for him. During our 5 days of trekking, we had THE BEST guide/sherpa. I would positively let them plan another trip for us. Thank you!!!!
Email: https://facebook.com/karenk2000
Karen Graves
CaliforniaA wonderful trip
Thank you so much!!!!
We had a wonderful trip!!! And you were always there to help or guide us as needed! I hope we can have fun together again!!!!!
Janet Spencer
West Jordan, UtahNice trip to Nepal
Nice trip in Nepal organized by Plan Holidays Travel! Guide and Porter were great.
Michael Worcestar
Plan Holidays is the best company
Plan Holidays is the best company with wonderful staff members and Guide was incredible an genuinely cared for our welfare. It was such a pleasure to meet all the friendly and humorous people of Nepal. All of my thanks to Managing Director Mr. Kala Dhar Baral and the professional team members of Plan Holidays.
Samuel idas
Great Job
Plan Holidays did a great job on the organization of this wonderful journey! We all had a great time, it was such a pleasure to meet all the friendly and humorous people of Nepal.
Aleksandra Perr/Peter Babivskiy
I had a wonderful experience
I recently booked a tour with Plan Holidays, and I had a wonderful experience. Anuja scheduled the tour, and it was comforting to have our trip covered without any concerns. Our guide Shiva took us through Kathmandu, and showed all us the highlights of the city and provided us with the cultural and historical background. We also did the Poon Hill Trek with guides Chitiz and Ashmir, who provided a peaceful hike through the Himalayas. On our last two days, we spent time in Chitwan National Park, where our guide, Robin, took us on adventures where we saw crocodiles and rhinos.
The entire package was affordable, and our guides met our every need; they went out of their way for us on many occasions. It was comforting to get off the bus and see our guides waiting for us with our name tags. I would highly encourage anyone to book a trip through this company. I promise that you will have an amazing experience–five stars!
