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A panoramic view of the Gokyo Lakes, with snow-capped peaks in the distance
Gokyo With Mountain View
Gokyo Ri Everest Base Camp Trek
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Everest Gokyo Lake Trek

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration18 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude5,545 m
Group SizeAny
StartsLukla
EndsKathamndu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeSeptember to December & March to May

Embark on an adventure trek in the Khumbu region during the Everest Gokyo Lake trek. This trek takes you beyond the Everest Base Camp trail and explores the beautiful Gokyo Valley. The trek is difficult and only recommended to individuals who have previous trekking experience.

On this 18-day trek in Nepal, you will explore Everest Base Camp, the lap of the tallest mountain in the world. The trail crosses the challenging Cho La pass and offers a superb view of Cho Lake on the way. Likewise, you will get to explore the alpine Gokyo Lakes, which range from 4,500 to 5,000 meters.

Everest Gokyo Lake Cho La pass trek begins with a thrilling Lukla flight. You will trek through rhododendron forests and Sherpa villages. The Sagarmatha National Park starts from Monjo onwards. Explore the famous Namche Bazaar and follow an isolated route to Gokyo Village.

Spend a rest day in Gokyo Village and hike to Gokyo Ri. From here, the trail steeply ascends to Cho La pass and descends to Dzongla. You will trek along the Khumbu glacier and pass by Louche and Gorak Shep before arriving at Everest Base Camp. Also, hike to Kala Patthar as your final ascent.

Throughout the Gokyo Lakes trek, you will witness changing scenery. The trail offers breathtaking views of mountains like Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Island Peak (6,165 m/20,226 ft), Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), Cho Oyu (8,188 m/26,864 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), etc.

Highlights

  • An adventure and difficult trek in the Khumbu region
  • Start and end the trek with thrilling Lukla flights
  • Go beyond the Everest Base Camp trail and explore the beautiful Gokyo Valley
  • Walk through rhododendron forests and Sherpa villages, crossing many suspension bridges
  • See the lifestyle of Sherpas and visit ancient monasteries on the way
  • Walk via glacier moraines in the upper part of the trail
  • Trek to Everest Base Camp, the lap of the tallest mountain in the world
  • Hike to Kala Patthar to witness a breathtaking sunrise and Mount Everest view
  • Cross the challenging Cho La pass- 5,000 meters above sea level
  • Explore the alpine Gokyo Lakes and see a gorgeous mountain view from Gokyo Ri
  • Witness diverse landscapes and jaw-dropping mountain vistas

Who can do the Everest Gokyo Lake trek 18 days and pack for the trek?

As the Everest Gokyo Lake trek is difficult, you have to be physically and mentally strong to do this trek. Prior trekking experience and training your body before the trek starts is crucial. Improve your stamina to trek at least 6 hours a day on varying terrain.

Similarly, practice meditation and maintain a positive attitude, which will help you bear the lack of modern infrastructure along the way. Likewise, the Everest Gokyo Lake trek route is very remote. You will spend many days without a network and other facilities.

Follow the below list for Everest Gokyo Lake trek packing:

  • Base layers (quick dry and moisture-wicking)
  • Undergarments
  • Trekking shirts, trousers
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
  • Down jacket
  • Gloves, socks, sunhat, bennie, scarf
  • Trekking boots and sandals
  • Backpack
  • Trekking poles
  • Quick dry towel
  • Sleeping bag
  • Water bottles and water purification tablets
  • Sunglass
  • Toiletries (comb, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, facewash, moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm, toilet paper, wet tissue, etc)
  • Personal medication
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Snacks, adapter, camera, power bank, charger, journal, pen
  • Passport, Visa, permits, photos, cash

Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience?

Join our Everest Gokyo Lake trek 2024 fixed departure or tailor-make the itinerary as per your requirements. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Himalayas will leave you in awe. We organize group treks and provide private trek options for solo trekkers.

You can clear any of your questions regarding the Everest Gokyo Lake trek at info@regulusnepal.com or 977 9851192662 (Madan Bhandari). Our team is very helpful and will answer all your queries.

Why do Everest Gokyo Lake trek with us?

A difficult trek like Everest Gokyo Lake Cho La pass requires meticulous planning and experience. We, Regulus Treks and Expedition, are one of the leading trekking companies in Nepal. Our expert team organizes safe and hassle-free treks for our guests.

Whether it be the Everest Gokyo Lake trek 18 days or any other trek in Nepal, you can trust our service and trek freely. Our team will be available 24/7 to support you. Likewise, you will get free airport pick up and drop off as per the itinerary.

There are many benefits of doing the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes trek with us in Nepal. We will be your reliable travel partner during your time with us. You can share your dream with our team. They will do their best to make it true.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
01Day

Our representatives will pick you from the airport. They will welcome you on our behalf and transfer you to the hotel. Take your time to explore your surroundings. In the late evening, we will meet for a welcome dinner.

Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
02Day

Today, you have a full day in Kathmandu to explore some tourist sites and prepare for the trek. In the morning, one of our tour guides will take you to some famous historical monuments such as Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Bouddhanath Stupa.

Later in the day, you will join a trek briefing and meet with your mountain guide. Ask any questions during the briefing. Our team will arrange all the permits. In the meantime, you will pack your duffle bag and do any last-minute shopping. Your guide will help you buy trekking gear.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
03Day

Trek distance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles

Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft

Duration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trek

Start early and take a short flight to Lukla. If you are trekking in the spring or autumn season, there is a high chance you will take the flight from Ramechhap airport. It is located 5 hours away from Kathmandu. The mountain views during the flight are phenomenal. From Lukla, you will trek to Phakding village. The trail descends along the Dudh Koshi river, crossing it numerous times on the way.

Max. Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
04Day

Trek distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft

Duration: 6 hours

The trail from Phakding continues to Namche Bazaar. You will walk via dense forests of rhododendrons and cross many hanging bridges, including the long Hillary Suspension Bridge. In Monjo, register the permits and trek from here to Namche Bazaar. The final ascend is steep.

Max. Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
05Day

Trek distance: 4 km/2.4 miles

Altitude: 3,790 m/12,434 ft

Duration: 3 hours

It is a short walk from Namche Bazaar to Khumkung village. So, you will begin the morning leisurely. You have the option to hike to Hotel Everest View before trekking to Khumjung Village. This will better help you in acclimatization, and you will also get to see stunning views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Nuptse. In Khumjung village, explore an ancient monastery. Also, visit the Hillary School.

Max. Altitude: 3,790 m/12,434 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
06Day

Trek distance: 4.2 km/2.6 miles

Altitude: 3,680 m/12,073 ft

Duration: 4 hours

Have an early morning breakfast and get ready for a low-impact hike to Phortse Thanga from Khumjung village. The trail goes through lush forests, where you may see Himalayan pheasants, Himalayan tahrs, etc. You will pass by small settlements like Kyanjuma and Sansa. The views of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Tawache, Mt. Cholatse, etc are fantastic on the way.

Max. Altitude: 3,680 m/12,073 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
07Day

Trek distance: 9 km/5.5 miles

Altitude: 4,038 m/13,248 ft

Duration: 4-5 hours

Leaving Phortse Thanga, you will ascend to Mong La pass (3,990 m). You will witness an outstanding view of Ama Dablam on the way. The trail has many steep sections through rhododendron and pine forests. You will cross a suspension bridge over the beautiful raging Dudh Koshi river and gradually walk to Dole for the night.

Max. Altitude: 4,038 m/13,248 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
08Day

Distance: 7 km/4.3 miles

Altitude: 4,470 m/14,450 ft

Duration: 5–6 hours

The trail continues to Machhermo. You will trek past many prayer flags and shrines. In Lapahram, you will get to see a superb view of the fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Cho Oyu. From here, trek, enjoying views of Thamserku and Kangtega peaks. You will trek on meadows and yak grazing sites and pass by Luja village before reaching Machhermo.

Max. Altitude: 4,470 m/14,450 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
09Day

Distance: 5.7 km/3.5 miles

Altitude: 4,790 m/15,584 ft

Duration: 4 hours

Leaving Machhermo, you will hike for an hour to reach Phanga. It is a landslide area. Cross an iron bridge and ascend to Longpongo Lake (4,690 m). From here, trek via Ngozumpa Glacier moraine and ascend to Gokyo Village, passing by the first two Gokyo Lakes.

Max. Altitude: 4,790 m/15,584 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
10Day

Altitude: 5,400 m/17,814 ft

Duration: 2-3 hours

You will spend one more day in Gokyo village. Take this opportunity and hike to Gokyo Ri and explore the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes. Witness stunning mountain views during the hike and relish the tranquility and the beauty of your surroundings.

Max. Altitude: 5,400 m/17,814ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
11Day

Now we pass Chola. Even though it is not a difficult trail but you should be extremely careful while passing Cho La. Trekking gears and other trekking equipment are so important in this region. We halt at Dzongla for tonight.

12Day

To reach Lobuche we travel through the glacier. During our walk we can have glorifying view of Kalapatthar and Pumori. Overnight in Lobuche.

13Day

Now comes the day where your trekking challenges you & brings to your dream destination. We move forward through Lobuche together with Khumbu Glacier. Walking through the stone paved way we arrive at Gorakshep to where we will spend our night. Taking some rest and unpacking our bags at Gorakshep, we head towards Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar which is at distance of 2 hours from here. The marvellous view of Kalapathhar leaves you stunned. We will roam around the base camp and look at its overall beauty. Again we move down towards Gorakshep. Overnight in Gorakshep.

14Day

Today we follow the trail towards Phulung Karpo. It is an easy trail compared to other. Now we move forward towards Pheriche. It is also a tiny village with small settlement. Overnight in Pheriche.

15Day

Today we move ahead to Orsho. The track will lead us to Lower Pangboche and somehow down to Deboche. Now we cross Phunkitenga. Our trail continues by moving towards Trashinga by crossing Dudh Koshi. After having a lunch at Shanasa we head towards Namche.

16Day

Crossing Bhote Koshi River and tracking the route To Jorsale we finally arrive at Monjo. We will leave Monjo by noon and walk downwards along Dudh Koshi River. We lastly arrive at Lukla. Overnight in Lukla.

17Day

Today is a day to get back to Kathmandu. We will catch a flight from Lukla. The air distance is about half an hour and you reach Kathmandu enjoying your glorious journey. You can even enjoy in Kathmandu for some time and roam around. In the evening the staff of Regulus will offer you a farewell dinner for successfully completing your trip.

18Day

Finally, your Gokyo Valley Trek ends here. A representative of Regulus will drop you to the airport a few hours before your booked flight. See you again!

Route Map
Everest Gokyo Lake Trek Map, Trek Route, Variation
Cost Details
Included
  • 20 days of adventure, 16 of which include 3 meals a day (B.L.D.) on the mountain while trekking in a basic lodge/hotel.  
  • 3 nights of accommodation in Kathmandu.(BB plan). 
  • Hot drinks (tea / coffee).
  • An experienced, licensed, English-speaking guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • A government-registered trekking guide (English-speaking with a license) & a local porter (1 porter with 2 trekkers).
  • Fooding, lodging, salaries,Salaries & insurance for the staff.
  • Both way domestic flight (KTM-Lukla-KTM).
  • Transportation fees during ground-travel (airport pick-up & drop-off).
  • Government-trained guides and required porters with their insurance, salary and meals.
  • Government taxes, entry fees and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permits 
  • All applicable fees.
  • One cultural show and farewell dinner.
  • Trip Completion Certificate.
  • First Aid Kit.            
Excluded
  • International flights.
  • Nepal entry visa.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Airport departure tax.
  • Entrance fees to monuments.
  • Extra showers, Battery recharge costs, laundry, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gear.
  • Food in Kathmandu ( also if earlier return to Kathmandu from Mountains due to any reason other than the scheduled Itinerary).
  • Unforeseen costs due to flight cancellation, weather conditions, etc.
  • Tips to guides and porters.
  • Cancellation fees, if any, from your side.
  • Hot shower.
  • Boiled water.
  • Wi -Fi.
  • Costs raised by conditions that are not under our control, such as landslides, weather conditions, political unrest, illness, etc.
Dates & Availability

Regulus Nepal ensures the security, contentment, and safety of our valued clientele. Our top priority is keeping you secure. Here are a few methods by which we protect your safety.

  • We have all the tools, supplies, and first aid kits we need.
  • Our trip leaders have received in-depth first-aid training.
  • Our trek leaders are fully authorized to halt the journey or continue if someone becomes ill.
  • In an emergency, we'll dispatch a helicopter for evacuation (insurance-covered).
  • The entire group will trek together.

Below is our trek cancellation/refund policy:

  • If we have to cancel the trek, we will return the money after deducting the expenses already incurred (hotel reservations, tea house reservations, transportation, permits, etc.).
  • The cancellation charge depends on the time you cancel the trek. The closer you cancel the trek to the day it is supposed to start, the higher the cancellation charge will be.
  • We wait 48 hours after the trip starts for guests to contact us if they do not join. After that, we assume the trip is canceled, and we, Regulus, will not refund the sum you had deposited.
  • In the event of weather conditions leading to cancellations or delays in flights, this trip will operate on an alternate itinerary.
  • We advise you to prepare for a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip, should your return flights from Lukla be delayed due to weather conditions.

The itinerary is flexible from our side; if clients want to change, it will be possible. If the itinerary seems unsuitable for you, please let us know, and we will make a tailor-made one.

Additional Info

Everest Gokyo Lake trek permit

For the Everest Gokyo Lake trek, you will need the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality entrance permit. The Sagarmatha National Park permit costs Rs. 3000 per person. Likewise, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entrance permit costs Rs. 2,000 per person.

What is the best time to do the Everest Gokyo Lake trek 18 days?

The best time to do the Everest Gokyo Lake trekking is pre-monsoon and post-monsoon, which means spring and autumn seasons. Spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November) have a lovely climate and stable weather, which is needed for a smooth trek.

Many travelers from around the world explore the beauty of the Khumbu region in these two seasons, so the trails are crowded, especially the mainstream EBC trail. During the Everest Gokyo Lake trek, you will have a balance of lively and tranquil trails. The mountain panoramas are clear and stunning in spring and autumn.

All the passes are in great condition to cross. The trekking routes are well maintained, and the lower precipitation risk lets you enjoy the trek to the fullest. Mornings and nights are a bit cold, but the daytime has the perfect climate to trek. The temperature ranges from 0°C to 15°C. Wear the clothes in layers and remove them if needed.

Travel insurance for the Everest Gokyo Lake Cho La pass trek

The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes trek involve risks of altitude sickness and injuries. Given the difficulties of this trek, travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bills are a must. You cannot do the Everest Gokyo Lake trek without travel insurance.

All participants have to provide us with their travel insurance documents before the trek begins. In case of emergency, we will use the insurance to provide needed assistance. We rarely have to use travel insurance during the Everest Gokyo Lake trek, but it is required for the ease of your and our minds.

Everest Gokyo Lake Trek: difficulty

The Everest Gokyo Lake trek is a very challenging trek in the Khumbu region. This trek crosses a 5,000-meter mountain pass, which is quite difficult to traverse. The trekkers spend multiple days above 4,000 meters and navigate mountains and glaciers. The trekking route has mixed terrain with many offbeat, steep sections.

While crossing the Cho La pass, you will also walk on the icy and snowy paths with loose rocks, which is quite tricky. Many days of uphill walking and increasing altitude may tire you sooner than you expect. The average daily walking hours is 6, but on days you will cross the mountains, you may have to walk for 8 to 10 hours.

Altitude sickness

The Everest Gokyo Lake Cho La pass trek starts from Lukla, situated at 2,840 meters (9,317 ft). From here, the trail gradually ascends and takes you above 5,000 meters six times. Kala Patthar is the highest point at 5,545 meters (1,192 ft). This gain in altitude may trigger altitude sickness in you, so you have to acclimatize as you trek.

Following our Everest Gokyo Lake trek itinerary, you will have ample time to rest and recover. Our itinerary has enough acclimatization days. To avoid altitude sickness, you should keep yourself hydrated and also maintain your pace. Get plenty of sleep and have nutritious food. You have to maintain your energy as well.

Accommodation and meals during the Everest Gokyo Lake trekking

The accommodation during the Everest Gokyo Lake trek is basic. In Kathmandu, you will spend three nights in a tourist-standard hotel. During the trek, you will spend 14 nights in the lodges along the trail.

In villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, you will get a room with a private washroom. Other villages mostly have common washrooms. Squat toilets are much more common as the elevation increases.

We will book you the best lodges. Services like hot showers, charging, and WiFi will cost you a few extra bucks everywhere, so do budget some money and carry Nepali cash for these personal expenses. Locals do not accept cards or foreign currency.

Rooms will be twin-shared in the lodges. A high-quality sleeping bag is highly recommended. Dining is a common area where you can mingle with other trekkers and have food. You will get three meals during the trek. All the food will be cooked by the lodges.

The menu includes Nepali, Tibetan, Western, and Indian food options. Dal bhat, thukpa, and momos are the most common dishes and most loved by trekkers. Apart from that, you will also get Sherpa stew, rice and curries, porridge, noodles, pizza, burgers, pasta, soup, pancakes, etc.

FAQs

There are five Gokyo Lakes ranging from 4,500 meters to 5,000 meters. The Gokyo Village is situated at the bank of the third Gokyo Lake called Dudh Pokhari.

No, there is no age limit to join the Everest Gokyo Lake. Trekkers under 16 years old can join this trek with their parents or an identified guardian.

Yes, a sleeping bag is needed for Everest Gokyo Lake. Get a high-quality sleeping bag. You can buy or rent it as per your wish.

On the way to Gokyo Lakes, you will traverse the biggest glacier in Nepal. It is called the Ngozumpa Glacier.

It depends on your fitness. Crossing Cho La pass is very demanding and requires strong fitness, balance, and endurance. Even if you are fit, you may not be able to handle the altitude, limitations, or complexity of the trail. So, make sure to do proper research about the Cho La pass trail before joining it.

As per the law, you can trek to Gokyo Lakes without a guide, but it isn't recommended. The Gokyo Lakes trail is not well established like the EBC trail. It is offbeat, steep, and not so visited by many trekkers. For a safe journey, travel with a guide.

From Kathmandu, you have to fly to Lukla and trek for 6 days to reach Gokyo Lakes. Another option is to take a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Gokyo Lake. Likewise, you can also drive from Kathmandu to Jiri or Phaplu and trek from here to Gokyo Lake, which takes 10-11 days.

Usually, it costs USD 1,200 to USD 1,800 per person to trek to Gokyo Lakes. However, this package also involves an excursion to EBC, so the package cost ranges between USD 1,650 to USD 2,200 per person.

Everest Gokyo Lake is a long trek in the Khumbu region. This trek goes to the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake while crossing the Cho La pass. You will need at least 18 to 20 days to explore all these places.

Everest Base camp The Gokyo Trek is a moderately challenging journey that requires both mental and physical preparation. It needs the energy to walk for 5–6 hours daily. On the Everest Gokyo Lake, you will trek on steep, rugged tracks, snow-covered slopes, and moraines and cross the challenging Cho La pass. Therefore, the Everest Gokyo Lake trek is difficult. With good gear and guidance, you can do this trek.

Yes, you can see Everest while trekking in the Gokyo Valley. Not only that, but the view of Mt. Everest from Gokyo Ri is considered very attractive. It is possible to see 8848 m of the world's highest mountain Mt. Everest including Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu from Kalapathar and from Gokyo Ri.

The accommodation is mostly teahouse and lodges which is clean and neat with local toilets.

Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

The average daytime temperature in April is about 15 to 1 degree centigrade and a few degrees lower in October and during the night -5 to -10 degrees.

The best time to do the EBC Gokyo trek is in Spring and in Autumn

Yes, it is possible to do the private trek as well as join treks in the Everest region.

To reach the maximum height you have to do a one-day sight tour to the View Point of Kalapatthar with an elevation of 5545m.

What our Clients Say?
Recommended on:
Ethan Brown
21 Feb, 2024
Best country full of mountains

My 18 days trip in Nepal was incomplete, not that my Jiri to Everest base camp trek that i purchased from Regulus trek was incomplete, but my mind and heart still want to explore more places of Nepal. Though the country is small, it is full of natural beauty, trekking...

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Ethan Brown
United Kingdom
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