Registration No: 359804/81/82
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Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Himalayan Escape Adventure, who will transfer you to your hotel. After checking in and settling into your room, the rest of the day is free to relax or explore the vibrant Thamel area, filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can use this time to rest and prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Early in the morning, you will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a thrilling 35-minute flight offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Lukla, your trekking journey begins as you descend toward Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through forests and Sherpa villages. It is a relatively easy day to adjust to the rhythm of trekking in the Everest region. Overnight stay in Phakding.
Today’s trek is a steady ascent to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa hub of the region. After crossing several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, you will gradually climb through beautiful pine forests and enjoy glimpses of Everest and other peaks along the way. As you approach Namche, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest. Namche Bazaar is an ideal place for acclimatization and exploring local shops, cafes, and monasteries. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
This day is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. You can take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel, which offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks. Alternatively, you can explore the town and its surroundings, visiting the local markets or the Sherpa Museum. This rest day is essential to help avoid altitude sickness and prepare for the next stages of the trek. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
After breakfast, you will begin the day’s trek toward Dole. The trail ascends through rhododendron forests and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Thamserku and Kantega. As you continue to gain altitude, you’ll reach Dole, a small village where you can relax and take in the stunning mountain scenery. Overnight stay in Dole.
The trek from Dole to Machhermo is a steady climb through alpine meadows, passing small streams and crossing ridges. As you gain altitude, you’ll enjoy impressive views of the surrounding mountains, including Cho Oyu. Machhermo is a small village located on a ridge, offering peaceful surroundings and a great place to acclimatize further. Overnight stay in Machhermo.
Today, you will trek to Gokyo, a beautiful village located near the stunning Gokyo Lakes. The trail gradually ascends through rocky terrain and past several small lakes before reaching the Gokyo Valley. Upon arrival in Gokyo, you will have time to rest and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Cho Oyu. In the afternoon, you will embark on a hike to Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint offering spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Overnight stay in Gokyo.
In the morning, you will have the opportunity to explore the Gokyo Lakes further, hiking to the 4th lake, which is less visited but equally stunning. The lake, set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, is a peaceful and tranquil spot. After soaking in the beauty of the area, you will descend back to Machhermo for an overnight stay. The return journey will offer views of the lakes and mountains from different perspectives. Overnight stay in Machhermo.
Today, you will retrace your steps as you descend from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar. The descent offers sweeping views of the Everest region, with glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. You will pass through several villages and cross suspension bridges before reaching Namche. Once back in Namche, you can relax and enjoy the familiar comforts of the town. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
The final leg of the trek takes you from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. As you descend, you’ll pass through forests and villages, crossing the Dudh Koshi River once again. The trail offers a mix of ups and downs, but the views remain spectacular. Upon reaching Lukla, you can rest and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve completed in the Everest region. Overnight stay in Lukla.
In the morning, you will take a return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The flight offers another opportunity to enjoy the dramatic landscapes of the Himalayas. Once in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore any of the city’s attractions that you may have missed earlier. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Today marks the end of your Gokyo Lake trek with Himalayan Escape Adventure. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. We hope that your experience in the Everest region has been memorable, and we look forward to welcoming you on future adventures in the Himalayas.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a popular trekking route in the Everest region that leads to the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a series of high-altitude glacial lakes nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Himalayas. The trek provides a more serene and less crowded alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp trek, while still offering breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The trek also includes a climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), which provides one of the best panoramic views of the Everest massif.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for trekkers with some experience. While the trek reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), it is generally less challenging than treks that involve crossing high passes or the demanding Everest Base Camp trek. However, trekkers still need to be physically fit and prepared for the effects of altitude, as well as the long days of walking.
The best time to undertake the Gokyo Lake Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, which are perfect for trekking. The monsoon season (June to August) should be avoided due to heavy rains and the possibility of trail disruptions, while winter months (December to February) can be very cold and challenging due to snow.
While it's possible to trek independently in the Everest region, it is highly recommended to hire a guide and/or porter for the Gokyo Lake Trek. A knowledgeable guide will help you navigate the trails, assist with acclimatization, provide insights into the local culture, and ensure your safety in the high-altitude environment. A porter can carry your gear, making the trek more comfortable and allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience. Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions provides experienced guides and porters to make your journey smooth and safe.
To trek in the Everest region, you'll need two main permits:
Sagarmatha National Park Permit:This permit is required to enter the park, which is home to the Everest region's wildlife and stunning landscapes.
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System):This card helps monitor trekkers for safety and facilitates the collection of trekking data in Nepal.
Gokyo Lakes:The trek visits the stunning Gokyo Lakes, known for their crystal-clear waters and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. These glacial lakes are a serene and beautiful place to visit.
Gokyo Ri Viewpoint:From the top of Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), trekkers are treated to an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. This viewpoint is often considered one of the best in the entire Everest region.
Less Crowded:Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Gokyo Lake Trek is generally quieter, allowing trekkers to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without the heavy crowds.
Sherpa Villages and Culture:The trek passes through several traditional Sherpa villages, such as Namche Bazaar and Dole, where you can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local people.
Stunning Views: Throughout the trek, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, including views of Everest and other peaks, alpine meadows, glaciers, and lush forests.
The Gokyo Lake Trek typically takes 12-14 days, depending on your pace and the specific itinerary. The trek includes a few acclimatization days to ensure a safe ascent, as well as time to explore the lakes and viewpoints. The trek’s length can be adjusted to fit your schedule, as it can be customized by your guide or trekking company.
Accommodation on the Gokyo Lake Trek is in teahouses (local lodges), which provide basic but comfortable facilities. The rooms are simple, often with shared bathrooms, but they offer a warm and cozy place to rest after a long day of trekking. The higher you ascend, the more basic the lodges become, but they are always welcoming and provide delicious meals. Some teahouses also offer hot showers, although they may be limited at higher altitudes.
The highest point of the Gokyo Lake Trek is the summit of Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). Since the trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters (13,100 feet), trekkers are at risk of altitude sickness. It’s important to allow for proper acclimatization by taking rest days and not ascending too quickly. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions ensures a gradual ascent with rest days to minimize the risk.
Preparation for the Gokyo Lake Trek involves physical training, such as cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking at higher altitudes. You should also focus on acclimatization during the trek to allow your body time to adjust to the thin air. Packing appropriate gear, including trekking boots, warm layers, a good-quality sleeping bag, and trekking poles, is essential for a comfortable and safe trek. Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions provides guidance on all necessary equipment and preparation.
Essential items for the trek include:
A quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures
Trekking boots and socks
Warm clothing, including layers, gloves, and a hat
A down jacket for colder weather
Trekking poles for stability on uneven terrain
A headlamp with extra batteries
Personal first-aid kit, sunscreen, and sunglasses
Water purification tablets and snacks
Camera to capture the stunning scenery Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions will provide a detailed packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a successful trek.
