An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking: The Emerald Journey – 12 Days
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package is a beautiful 12-day trek in Nepal. It takes you to the peaceful Gokyo Valley in the Everest region.
This trek is known as “The Emerald Journey.” It is famous for turquoise lakes, Sherpa villages, quiet trails, glaciers, and wide Himalayan views.
The route starts with a scenic flight to Lukla. Then, the trail follows Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo. After reaching Gokyo, you can hike to Gokyo Ri at 5,357m for panoramic mountain views. Nepal Tourism Board says Gokyo Valley lies west of the Khumbu region and is part of Sagarmatha National Park. It also describes the valley as famous for pristine turquoise lakes and views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The Gokyo Lakes are sacred for both Hindus and Buddhists. Also, the lakes provide refuge to migratory birds. Nepal Tourism Board notes that Gokyo is part of the Ramsar sites and has religious importance.
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking – 12 Days is suitable for fit beginners, experienced hikers, photographers, nature lovers, and travelers who want a quieter alternative to Everest Base Camp.
Why Choose Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking?
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking route is one of the best alternatives to the Everest Base Camp Trek. It is less crowded. However, it still gives amazing views of Mount Everest and other high Himalayan peaks.
This trek is ideal for travelers who want peaceful trails and beautiful lakes. Also, it is perfect for trekkers who want mountain views from Gokyo Ri.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• A 12-day Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package
• A peaceful trek in the Everest region
• A guided trek to Gokyo Valley
• A scenic flight to Lukla
• A trek to sacred turquoise Gokyo Lakes
• A hike to Gokyo Ri at 5,357m
• Views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam
• A quieter route than Everest Base Camp
• A Sherpa culture trekking experience
• A tea house trek inside Sagarmatha National Park
• A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking Highlights
• Visit the beautiful Gokyo Lakes in the Everest region
• Hike to Gokyo Ri at 5,357m / 17,575ft
• Enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
• Explore Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa town of Khumbu
• Walk through Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo village
• See the huge Ngozumpa Glacier area
• Walk inside Sagarmatha National Park
• Experience Sherpa culture, prayer flags, mani walls, and monasteries
• Cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River
• Stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges
• Enjoy a quieter Everest trekking route
• Take a scenic flight to and from Lukla
• Perfect trek for photographers and lake lovers
Best Time for Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking
The best time for Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best seasons. The weather is warmer than winter. Also, the mountain views are often clear in the morning.
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent season. After the monsoon, the air is fresh. Therefore, mountain views are usually sharp and beautiful.
Winter is possible with warm gear. However, the Gokyo area can be very cold. Snow and ice may also affect the higher trails.
Monsoon is less popular. Rain, clouds, and flight delays can affect the lower route and Lukla flights.
Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking Difficulty
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking route is a moderate to challenging trek. It does not require climbing skills. However, altitude is the main challenge.
The trek reaches Gokyo village at around 4,790m. Also, the Gokyo Ri viewpoint reaches 5,357m. Nepal Tourism Board lists Gokyo Ri at 5,357m and highlights its all-round mountain view.
You should walk slowly and drink enough water. Also, you should follow your guide’s advice every day.
This trek includes an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Therefore, your body gets time to adjust before going higher.
The trek is suitable for fit beginners with preparation. Still, previous hiking experience is helpful.
Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking Permits
The Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking route lies inside Sagarmatha National Park and the Khumbu region. So, trekkers need the correct permits.
For this trek, travelers normally need:
• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card / Local Entry Permit
• TIMS Card as per current trekking rules
• Licensed trekking guide
Nepal Tourism Board lists the Sagarmatha National Park entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners, NRs. 1,500 for SAARC nationals, and NRs. 100 for Nepali visitors. Children below 10 years are free.
The official Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality page lists the Trek-Card fee as NRs. 2,000 for SAARC countries and China and NRs. 3,000 for other countries. It also lists Lukla Tourist Information Centers as the service office.
Nepal Tourism Board lists Gokyo Trek under Everest Region routes where trekkers need a licensed guide and trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card.
Your trekking agency should arrange permits, flights, guide, lodges, and trekking support.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 02: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
• Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
• Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
• Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole
• Day 06: Trek from Dole to Machhermo
• Day 07: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo
• Day 08: Hike to Gokyo Ri and Explore Gokyo Lakes
• Day 09: Trek from Gokyo to Dole
• Day 10: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
• Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
• Day 12: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu / Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you. Then, you will transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
You can rest after your flight. In the evening, your guide will give a short trek briefing.
The briefing covers Lukla flights, permits, route, gear, weather, altitude safety, and daily walking plan.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
Early in the morning, you will fly to Lukla. During peak season, flights may operate from Manthali / Ramechhap. Your agency will confirm the final plan.
After landing in Lukla, you will meet the trekking crew. Then, the trek begins with an easy walk toward Phakding.
The trail passes villages, prayer wheels, mani walls, and green hills. This first walking day is short. Therefore, it helps you adjust slowly.
• Altitude: Lukla – approx. 2,840m / 9,318ft; Phakding – approx. 2,610m / 8,563ft
• Flight/Trek Time: Flight approx. 30–35 minutes; trek approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
After breakfast, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross suspension bridges and pass small villages.
The route goes through Monjo and Jorsale. Then, you will enter Sagarmatha National Park after permit checking.
After lunch, the trail climbs toward Namche Bazaar. On a clear day, you may see Everest in the distance.
Namche Bazaar is the main Sherpa town of the Khumbu region. It has lodges, shops, cafés, bakeries, and mountain views.
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar – approx. 3,440m / 11,286ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Today is an acclimatization day. You will stay in Namche, but you will also take a short hike.
You may hike to Everest View Hotel, Syangboche, Khumjung, or Khunde. These places offer views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks.
After the hike, you will return to Namche. Then, you can rest, explore the market, and prepare for the Gokyo trail.
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar – approx. 3,440m / 11,286ft
• Activity Time: Approx. 3–4 hours light hike
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole
After breakfast, you will leave Namche and follow the trail toward the Gokyo Valley. The route gives beautiful views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks.
The trail passes Kyangjuma and climbs toward Mong La. Then, it descends toward Phortse Tenga.
After that, you will climb through forest and hillside trails to Dole. This section feels quieter than the main Everest Base Camp trail.
• Altitude: Dole – approx. 4,200m / 13,780ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 06: Trek from Dole to Machhermo
Today, the trail climbs slowly through open highland scenery. You will pass small settlements and yak grazing areas.
As you move higher, the air becomes thinner. Therefore, you should walk slowly and drink enough water.
Machhermo is a small mountain village on the way to Gokyo. It is also a useful place for altitude awareness before reaching the lake area.
• Altitude: Machhermo – approx. 4,470m / 14,665ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo
After breakfast, you will continue toward Gokyo. The trail passes rocky paths, alpine valleys, and beautiful lake scenery.
You will see the first Gokyo lakes along the route. Then, you will reach Gokyo village beside the main lake.
Gokyo is one of the most beautiful places in the Everest region. The lake color looks emerald or turquoise, especially on clear days.
• Altitude: Gokyo – approx. 4,790m / 15,715ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Hike to Gokyo Ri and Explore Gokyo Lakes
Early in the morning, you will hike to Gokyo Ri. This is the best viewpoint of the trek.
From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other peaks. Nepal Tourism Board says Gokyo Ri gives an all-round spectacular view of the peaks and Gokyo Lakes.
After the hike, you will return to Gokyo for breakfast. Later, you can explore the lake area and enjoy the peaceful valley.
This day is the main highlight of the Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package.
• Altitude: Gokyo Ri – 5,357m / 17,575ft; Gokyo – approx. 4,790m / 15,715ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours for Gokyo Ri hike; extra time for lake exploration
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek from Gokyo to Dole
After breakfast, you will leave Gokyo and begin the return journey. The trail descends through the same beautiful valley.
You will pass lakes, rocky paths, yak pastures, and small settlements. Since you are descending, breathing usually feels easier.
After reaching Dole, you can rest at the lodge. This day gives one more chance to enjoy the peaceful Gokyo Valley.
• Altitude: Dole – approx. 4,200m / 13,780ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
Today, you will descend from Dole toward Phortse Tenga. Then, you will climb and follow the trail back toward Mong La and Kyangjuma.
The route gives final views of the Everest region peaks. Also, the landscape becomes greener as you descend.
After reaching Namche Bazaar, you can rest at the lodge. You may also enjoy a bakery, café, or hot shower if available.
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar – approx. 3,440m / 11,286ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Today is the final walking day of the trek. You will descend from Namche to the Dudh Koshi River valley.
The trail passes Jorsale, Monjo, Phakding, and several small villages. You will cross suspension bridges and follow familiar paths back to Lukla.
After reaching Lukla, you can rest and celebrate the successful completion of your Gokyo Lake Trek.
• Altitude: Lukla – approx. 2,840m / 9,318ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu / Final Departure
Early in the morning, you will fly from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali. This depends on the flight operation.
If the flight lands in Manthali, you will drive back to Kathmandu. After arrival, airport transfer can be arranged for your final departure.
If your international flight is the next day, one extra night in Kathmandu is recommended. This gives a safer and more relaxed ending.
Your 12 Days Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package ends with beautiful memories of Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Sherpa villages, and Everest views.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Flight/Drive Time: Flight approx. 30–35 minutes; Manthali drive may take approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Not Included unless extra night is booked
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
• Airport arrival and departure transfer
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
• Breakfast in Kathmandu
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
• Licensed trekking guide
• Trekking staff support as per group size
• Porter support as per package policy
• Sagarmatha National Park permit assistance
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card assistance
• TIMS Card assistance as per current rules
• Kathmandu / Manthali to Lukla flight assistance
• Lukla to Kathmandu / Manthali flight assistance
• Ground transfer if flights operate from Manthali
• Basic first aid support
• High-altitude safety guidance
• Farewell dinner as per package policy
• Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
• International airfare
• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking equipment
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu unless mentioned
• Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
• Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff
• Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, flight delay, or weather condition
• Extra cost caused by Lukla flight delay, cancellation, rerouting, or helicopter upgrade
• Additional cost caused by snow, landslide, political strike, road blockage, or natural events
• Emergency rescue, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, or insurance claim cost
• Any cost caused by itinerary change due to altitude sickness or weather
• Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking
Is Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking good for beginners?
Yes, it can suit fit beginners. However, preparation is important. The trek reaches high altitude and includes long walking days.
How many days is this Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package?
This is a 12-day Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package. It includes arrival, Lukla flights, trekking days, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and final return.
How high is Gokyo Ri?
Gokyo Ri is 5,357m / 17,575ft. Nepal Tourism Board lists this altitude for the summit viewpoint.
How high is Gokyo Lake?
The main Gokyo lake and village area is commonly listed around 4,790m / 15,715ft. It is one of the highest overnight points of this trek.
What is the best time for Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking?
The best time is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These months usually offer clearer skies and better mountain views.
What mountains can I see during the trek?
You can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and other peaks of the Everest region.
Is Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking difficult?
Yes, it is moderate to challenging. The trail is not technical. However, altitude, cold weather, and long walking days make it demanding.
Do I need permits for Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking?
Yes. You need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Trek Card, and TIMS Card as per current rules.
Do I need a guide for Gokyo Lake Trek?
Yes. Nepal Tourism Board lists Gokyo Trek under Everest Region routes that require a licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS Card.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation during the trek is in local tea houses and mountain lodges. In Kathmandu, accommodation is arranged in a hotel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. It should cover trekking above 5,000 meters, medical care, trip delay, and helicopter evacuation.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this trek as a private or group joining package.
Can I book a private Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking package?
Yes. This trek can be arranged as a private guided trek. It can be customized based on your date, budget, fitness level, and group size.
Can I customize this 12-day itinerary?
Yes. You can add Renjo La Pass, Everest Base Camp, Chola Pass, or extra acclimatization days. You can also add a helicopter return option.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
Route Map
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Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 1550Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.