14 Days Gokyo Lake Trekking

Overview of 14 Days Gokyo Lake Trekking

Gokyo lake trek is an alternative trek to the Everest base camp trekking comprising of calm, less crowded route in the region yet incorporating the majestic views of the world’s tallest peaks lying in the Himalayan mountain ranges of Nepal.

Gokyo Lake trekking showcase astounding experience in the world’s heritage site i.e. Sagarmatha national park which lies in Everest region of the Solukhumbhu district in the central Nepal. Gokyo Lake lies at an aerial distance of only 136 km from the capital; Kathmandu. However, trek in Gokyo RI is relatively arduous and it will be completed in 12 days.

Gokyo lake trekking reaches a maximum altitude of 5357 meter and is covered while crossing the total of six lakes and one of the biggest glacier lake of Khumbu region i.e. Ngozumpa Glacier Lake.

Apart from the pristine Gokyo Lakes and the views of glorious, giant and spellbinding snow capped Himalayas, the largest glacier of Nepal-Ngozumpa Glacier and an insight of indigenous Sherpa settlements with there devotion and faith on Buddhism, their simplicity and smiling face, sacred mantras murmuring nuns and monks in several monasteries decorated with colorful flags flapping with the cool and fresh cold air certainly allure you and make your trek one of the most memorable one that you proudly share throughout your life. Hence, we suggest you not to miss this excellent opportunity to be there as it is one of the best treks of trekking in Nepal where as Everest Base Camp Trek is most famous one and the Gokyo Lake Treks the best one is.

Gokyo Lake Trek is an alternate trekking route to those people who wish to avoid the crowd of the traditional route and explore the Himalayas less traveled by with the shining, untouched blue and green water of the Gokyo Lakes.

That comprise the highest freshwater lake system of series of six lakes in the world at around 5,000m altitude. The views of the four highest peaks of the world out of ten those crossing an altitude of 8,000m namely the Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Cho Oyu among other numerous mountains snatch your attention and make you feel saturated divinely.

Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the attractive, picturesque, majestic and vibrant trek the Everest region. Gokyo lake trekking offers you to experience a vibrant, calm and scenic region of the Himalayan peaks along with the experiencing the worlds renowned Sherpa people, their settlement in the region, along with their culture, tradition, language and cuisine.

Gokyo Lake Trek offers an insight of indigenous Sherpa settlements, their devotion and faith on Buddhism, their simplicity and smiling face, uttering and murmuring sacred mantras by nuns and monks in several monasteries decorated with colorful flags flapping in the cold wind with the settlements just below the snowcapped mountains will provide a divine, majestic moments in one’s life could imagine.

Gokyo lake trekking offers you to experience an aerial view of the green lushly hilly region of Nepal to the shortest runway mountain airport of Lukla which landing will definitely be thrilling. The trek to Gokyo encompasses eye-catching natural scenario of landscape, rarest animals and vegetation, deep gorges, high hill terraces, rhododendron- bamboo- alpine forests, high altitude Himalayan lakes and colorful and vibrant villages of Sherpa with distinct culture, tradition and beliefs.

Gokyo Ri is difficult trek to achieve as it attains the altitude above 5000meter so strength and determination is a must. Thus, Gokyo Lake trekking in the Everest region is not done by many people so it is relatively untouched and preserves the natural unspoiled beauty from the start.

Gokyo Lake trek begins with your arrival in Nepal. Kathmandu valley sightseeing is the first day exploration after your arrival and then a short flight to Lukla with a thrilling mountain flight experience in one of the shortest runways of the world and the first view of the snowcapped mountains in the horizon and amidst of them is our final destination. From there we will head towards our destination to Namche Bazaar through the valley of Dudhkoshi River greeting with the other trekkers alongside completed ones and of the other routes.

Trek Route of Gokyo Lake Trek 

Gokyo Lake trek starts after your arrival in Kathmandu. Kathmandu, historically and culturally significant and nation’s capital offers a grandeur visualization of Nepalese customs, culture, art, tradition and cuisine. Usually, the guest will be residing in the touristic hotspot of Kathmandu i.e. thamel area in a 3 star hotel.

A scenic mountain flight to Lukla offers a glimpse of majestic Himalayas with a picturesque mountain ranges. The foot trek then starts by the descending to the Phakding village via green lushly forests. With a gradual increase in altitude, the alpine region starts offering the vegetation including pine, fir, and rhododendron along the winding ancient foot route of Dudh Koshi River leading all the way to the throbbing Namche bazar. This hustling, bustling Namche offers a gateway to Everest region where various trekking and expedition plans are started and executed.

Acclimatization in Namche offers to navigate the Namche bazar and its peripheries which includes its local market, monasteries, schools and museums. This will be the period to understand Sherpa people’s culture, customs and tradition.

As we ascend to dole, we will see the changes in terrain, vegetation and the environment. A few local tea houses will be seen along the path with the rocky mountain terrain.

The path to Machhermo will be relatively difficult with the narrow steep with rocky terrain and low or no vegetation at all. But along the path we will encounter our one of the biggest glacier lake of khumbu region i.e. Ngozumpa, along with lake such as Cho la, Dudh pokhari and leading to the Gokyo Lake.

After an ascend to Gokyo ri peak we will observe the majestic mountain peaks of Himalayas which includes world’s highest peak i.e. Mt. Everest, 4th highest Mt. Lhotse (8,501m), 6th highest Mt. Cho Oyu (8,153m), Mt. Gyachung Kang (7,922m) and further way the 5th highest Mt. Makalu (8,463m). Similarly other small peak can be seen such as Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Tawache and many more.

Gokyo valley offers the five distinct freshwater lakes in the high altitude region as wetlands which are listed as Ramsar region of Nepal. Thus this trek offers the cultural, religious aspect along with the clear presentation of the nature, of fresh, winding, rivers and streams, with crystal clear icy, glacier lakes along with shining snowcapped Himalayan ranges in the altitude above 5000 meters above the sea level. This will be a grand, memorable experience once it is achieved.

Best time for Gokyo Lake Trek

Trekking in Nepal is feasible throughout the year; however, the optimal time to trek depends on various factors such as climate, weather, temperature, altitude, and personal preferences. Specifically, the weather plays a crucial role in determining the best time to visit Nepal for trekking.

• Spring 

Spring is an ideal season to embark on the Gokyo Lake trek and explore other parts of Nepal. The weather is generally clear, offering spectacular views of the mountains and lush green hills. The lake’s crystal-clear water adds to the stunning scenery. With minimal chances of heavy snowfall and monsoon rains, from February to late April, spring falls between winter and summer. During this time, temperatures range from 0 to 15 degrees Celsius. Nature blooms, and Nepal’s national flower can be seen along with reddish forests. Therefore, it is the most suitable time for Gokyo Lake trekking.

• Autumn

Autumn is another perfect season for Gokyo Lake trekking, and the Everest region in Nepal. The temperature ranges from 0 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for trekking. Autumn follows monsoon season, so the chances of rainfall are minimal, and the weather is clear. Additionally, many festivals fall during autumn, making it a great opportunity to immerse oneself in cultural and traditional events.

• Summer

Summer in Nepal is the rainy season, with rainfall occurring almost daily. The trekking paths can be slippery, and water levels in rivers and streams can rise with fast currents. However, the greenery of the forests during this season is breathtaking. If you love the lush green nature, proper trekking boots and sticks can help minimize any risks.

• Winter

Winter is not the best season for trekking in this region. The temperature ranges from below zero to a maximum of 5 degrees Celsius, resulting in heavy snowfall in the area. If you choose to trek during winter, lower altitude areas can be explored with proper warm clothing and thick sleeping bags.

Typical day in Gokyo Lake Trek

Our trekking itinerary begins with a delicious breakfast served promptly at 7 to 7:30 am, providing our guests with the necessary energy to embark on the next part of their journey. Our experienced team will commence trekking at 8 am, and after four hours of trekking, we will reach our next destination, taking ample breaks to admire the stunning scenery of mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, and more, making you forget all the fatigue.

To ensure our guests comfort and prevent any physical strain, we have designated enough rest time during the daily trek of 6 to 7 hours. At noon, we will take a break for a well-deserved lunch, allowing our guests to recharge themselves and relish the surrounding natural beauty.

In the evening, our guests will be treated to a delectable dinner between 6 to 7 pm, consisting of both local and international cuisine. Our skilled chefs will utilize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience. Our commitment to exceptional hospitality and attention to detail will make our guests trekking experience both pleasant and unforgettable.

Physical Condition & Experience Requirements

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek is graded as a moderate trek. This trekking route is relatively easier if you are used to walking on high altitude and for the fresh trekker with an ability to walk for 6-7 hours a day carrying a light backpack having good health and normal physical fitness with high motivation, strong desire and self confidence can easily make this trek. We request to all of the participants for regular jogging and exercising 2-3 months prior the expedition date. If you are suffering from any diseases relating to heart, lungs and blood should inform to Graceful Adventure before booking the trek.

Trekking Difficulties of Gokyo Lake Trek 

The geographical land structure of Nepal is highly diverse, with an altitude range of 60 meters to 8849 meters above sea level. This factor has a significant impact on the country’s climate, weather patterns, and temperature. Additionally, it greatly affects the various trails that lead to higher altitudes, such as the Gokyo Lake Trek. The trail’s difficulty level is highly influenced by the altitude, uneven terrain, climate, and weather conditions.

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a moderate to challenging route due to its altitude range of 2000 meters to 5357 meters above sea level. The vast altitude range makes the trail highly varied and challenging. The trail consists mainly of steep ascents and uneven steps, making it a moderate to challenging level of difficulty. The average temperature during the trek is below 14 degrees Celsius, which is suitable for trekking, but there is a high risk of frostbite.

The high altitude also poses a risk of altitude sickness due to low air density. The narrow, stepped, stony, bumpy, and snow-covered paths can also pose challenges during the trek. To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, we provide experienced and qualified guides and porters who are fluent in English and conduct themselves politely. Our team is well-equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during the trek and will arrange all necessary services and facilities.

Moreover, our guides and porters will provide valuable information about the area’s flora, fauna, mountains, jungles, rivers, and local communities’ traditions and cultures. This enriches the trekking experience with cultural insights. However, due to the trek’s moderate to challenging difficulty level, we recommend that infants, children, elderly people, pregnant women, regular medicine users, or those with below-average physical fitness avoid this trek.

Gokyo Lake trekking Permit

In Nepal, trekking is a popular activity that is permitted throughout the country for individuals or groups. However, certain areas, such as conservation areas, wildlife reserves, and the Himalayas, are restricted, and trekkers must obtain permits issued by the Nepalese government and tourism board. It’s important to note that permits can only be obtained through government but not through any trekking agencies and not by individuals directly.

For those planning to trek to Gokyo Lake, obtaining a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card is mandatory. The Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu issues TIMS cards, which typically take 20-30 minutes to obtain. The process involves filling out a form and paying a fee of 30 USD.

Additionally, Gokyo Lake Trek lies in Gaurishankar Conservation Area. So, to enter the Gaurishankar Conservation Area must obtain a Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit, which can be acquired from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. The permit fee is approximately 3000 NPR, and a photograph is required for the application.

During the trek we also have to enter to Sagarmatha National park. So, one should need the entry permit and local entry permit should also be taken from tourism board nepal, which may cost 30 USD according to the local rules.

To summarize, TIMS card, Sagarmatha National park entry permit, local area entry permit and Gaurishankar Conservation Area Entry Permit are necessary for trekking in Gokyo Lake. It’s crucial to keep in mind that the TIMS card can only be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, while the permit can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board. By obtaining these permits, trekkers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while also supporting the conservation efforts in the region.

Food and Accommodation in Gokyo Lake Trek

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the beautiful country of Nepal, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. As part of our commitment to providing you with a top-notch experience, we have arranged for your accommodation in a standard 3-star hotel in the bustling city of Kathmandu.

Over the course of your journey with us, we will take you through two major cities and several picturesque villages, each with its unique charm and character. In the cities, we have arranged for 3-star hotels that offer all the modern amenities and comforts you would expect. In the villages, we will provide accommodations such as teahouses,  or lodges that come equipped with essential facilities, ensuring that you have a comfortable and authentic experience of rural life in Nepal.

We take great care to ensure that all your dietary needs are met during your trip. Our meals are prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail, using locally sourced ingredients and traditional Nepali recipes. You will have the opportunity to taste some of the most delicious and healthy dishes, including the famous Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari, as well as Indian and Tibetan cuisine. We are mindful of any dietary restrictions you may have and will work to accommodate them to the best of our abilities.

One of the highlights of your trip will be the time spent in the charming village of Nepal, where you will get to experience the local food, drinks, and hospitality of the Sherpa communities. You will also have the chance to witness local songs and traditional dances, performed by the hospitable locals.
As a special treat, we will provide a farewell dinner upon the completion of your trek that includes some normal continental foods.

We believe that this will be the perfect way to cap off your journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and we have taken every precaution to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Our team of experienced guides and porters will be with you every step of the way, providing support and assistance as needed. We are honored to have you as our guest, and we look forward to providing you with an unforgettable journey that blends cultural immersion with adventure.

Acclimatization

When individuals immigrate to a foreign country with a dissimilar climate or cultural norms, they may require an adjustment period to acclimate to their new environment and feel comfortable in their surroundings. Nepal, in particular, is a highly sought-after destination for trekking and touring.

However, the country’s environment can be vastly different from other locations on the planet. Travellers hailing from lower altitudes may encounter obstacles when embarking on the Gokyo Lake trek, which culminates at a towering altitude of 5357 meters. Although the view from beyond the tree line is awe-inspiring, altitude sickness is a frequent ailment that can affect those who ascend too rapidly without sufficient acclimatization.

Fortunately, our highly experienced team is well-equipped to assist trekkers in combating altitude sickness. We strongly advise our guests to consume an abundance of fluids, including water, hot soup, and tea, to help prevent altitude sickness. Furthermore, we employ a gradual approach to ascending to higher elevations, affording the trekker’s body sufficient time to adjust to the changing environment. To allow the body to acclimatize, it is essential to rest frequently and avoid overexertion during hikes or climbs. Even physically fit individuals may be susceptible to altitude sickness, which is why we ascend slowly, typically 300 to 1000 meters per day, to ensure proper rest.

At our company, we prioritize providing the best service while taking care of our guests. In the event that a trekker is unable to fend off altitude sickness, we will take them back. Our company’s utmost concern is the well-being of our guests, and we guarantee that our seasoned team will do everything possible to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Drinking Water

The Gokyo Lake Trek is a breath-taking journey that takes you through a variety of landscapes, including terrace farming, forests, and base camps. It is important to note that in order to preserve the local flora and fauna, the use of plastic materials, including plastic water bottles, is strictly prohibited.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles, filled with water, to ensure that they have access to safe and clean drinking water throughout the trek. To guarantee the safety and hygiene of our guests, we strongly advise against drinking water directly from taps or streams. When your water bottle runs out, you can refill it at any of the available teahouses or lodges along the route.

However, please be aware that due to the high volume of visitors on the Gokyo Lake Trek, it may be necessary to purchase properly filtered and boiled water. We understand the importance of staying hydrated on this trek, but we ask that all visitors respect the environmental regulations in place to protect the local ecosystem. By bringing your own reusable water bottle and properly disposing of any waste, you can help us preserve the beauty of the Everest region for generations to come.

Guide Service of Gokyo Lake Service

The Gokyo Lake trek is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from the stresses of daily life. Whether you’re traveling with colleagues, friends, family, or as a female trekker, this trek is an excellent option for those who are moderately fit. While it’s possible to trek independently, foreign visitors are required to have a guide and porter due to local regulations.

Our company provides highly qualified and experienced guides and porters who are fluent in English and renowned for their kindness and professionalism. We’re committed to introducing you to the rich culture and traditions of Nepal, and we can arrange for a translator if needed to ensure clear communication.

Our 12 day trekking package is perfect for group trekking. Since each porter can only carry up to 25 kg, it’s essential to pack efficiently. We offer porters to assist with carrying warm clothing and personal belongings, and the number of guides and porters we provide depends on the size of the group. We take great care to ensure that you have the necessary support to make your trek both enjoyable and safe.

To summarize, Gokyo Lake Trek package is an ideal way to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas and the cultural richness of Nepal. Our friendly and experienced team will ensure that you have an unforgettable adventure.

Travel Insurance

When embarking on a trek such as Gokyo Lake Trek, it is crucial to obtain travel insurance to minimize the risk of mishaps or to reduce their impact. Therefore, we strongly recommend that all trekkers obtain travel insurance before commencing their journey. The insurance must cover essential medical check-ups, helicopter rescue in case of any medical emergencies or calamities during the trek, and other necessary expenses. We consider travel insurance as a compulsory requirement and recommend that trekkers present their insurance certificate to Graceful Adventure before starting the trek.

Please note that Graceful Adventure does not sell insurance policies, and it is the responsibility of the trekkers to obtain their insurance certificates from certified insurance companies. To assist trekkers from different regions, we recommend the following insurance companies:

For travelers from the USA and Canada: Online Global Health Insurance, Travelex, Insure My Trip.com (Online Insurance Aggregator), Mondial Assistance, Access America, HCC Medical Insurance Services, Good Neighbor Insurance (International Health), International Health, Insuremytrip dot com, MultiNational Underwriters, TIC Travel Insurance Coordinators Ltd, Travel Assist, and TraveLite.

For travelers from England: Specialty Group (UK) Limited, FirstAssist Services Limited, Harrison Beaumont, and Buy cheap travel insurance.

For travelers from Europe and Slovenia: Assistance CORIS.

For travelers from Australia and New Zealand: Cover More Travel Insurance And CGU Insurance Limited.

For travelers from South Africa: Travel insurance Consultants Pty. Ltd.

Please note that these companies were recommended by previous travelers and are for recommendation purposes only. We encourage trekkers to conduct their own research and choose an insurance company that meets their specific needs.

In summary, obtaining travel insurance is crucial for treks such as Gokyo Lake Trek. It is a standard practice that helps to minimize the risk of mishaps and ensure that trekkers receive timely medical assistance if required.

Electricity and Communication

Electricity and internet access will be available 24/7 in urban areas. However, during treks, there may be instances of power outages in some village areas. Even in tea houses or lodges where you choose to stay, there may be additional charges for utilizing electricity or internet services due to the busy route or rural location. Please note that during the trek, access to electricity or internet will not be available. Therefore, it is advised to charge your electronic devices in the tea houses or lodges where you will be lodging.

ATM and Currency Exchange

Nepal’s bustling urban hubs, namely Kathmandu and Pokhara, offer a plethora of convenient ATM and money exchange services that facilitate the acquisition of Nepalese currency for travelers. However, such amenities may not be readily available in rural areas, where only Nepalese currency is accepted, and modern banking infrastructure may be scarce.

To circumvent any potential inconveniences, it is strongly advised that travellers plan in advance and exchange foreign currency for Nepalese currency before embarking on a trek. This will ensure that adequate local currency is readily available to purchase essentials such as food, water, and other necessary supplies during the trek. Seeking guidance from local currency exchange services in Kathmandu can also help expedite the process and minimize any undue stress.

Graceful Adventure Travel Team 

Graceful Adventure Travels Pvt. Ltd. is a highly reputable and renowned adventure travel company, registered and based in the beautiful country, Nepal. We specialize in offering exceptional trekking packages to guests from all over the world, who seek to explore the awe-inspiring Himalayas.
At Graceful Adventure Travels, we are committed to excellence in all aspects of our work. Our primary goal is to ensure that our guests have a safe and unforgettable adventure, which is why we have earned a reputation for providing an exceptional level of service.

Our team is composed of experienced and hardworking guides, assistant guides, and porters who are passionate about ensuring that our guests have an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. We take pride in offering a range of services and facilities that are designed to enhance the overall trekking experience, making it both fun and adventurous. We are dedicated to meeting the needs and expectations of our valued guests, and we go above and beyond to ensure that their journey is a success. From the moment they arrive in Nepal until the end of their trek, we spare no effort in providing personalized attention, exceptional service, and genuine care.

At Graceful Adventure Travels, we are committed to upholding the highest standards in the adventure travel industry. Our mission is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience that creates memories that last a lifetime.

Tipping while Trekking in Nepal 

Tipping is a customary way of expressing gratitude for services rendered in Nepal. It is a discretionary practice, and trekkers may choose to tip individuals at their discretion based on their personal satisfaction with the services provided.

Tipping is typically offered on the final day of the trek, although trekkers may choose to tip hotel staff, lodge employees, or other individuals at any time during their trip. When deciding on the amount to tip, it is essential to consider the quality of the service provided, the duration of the service, and the level of personal satisfaction.

While tipping is a common practice in Nepal, it is not obligatory, and trekkers should not feel pressured to tip if they are not satisfied with the services received. Additionally, if a trekker is unable to tip due to financial constraints, it is important to express gratitude verbally by saying Dhanyabad or Thank you.

Booking process of Gokyo Lake Trekking 

Package Selection: Start by visiting our company’s website www.gracefuladventure.com and select Gokyo lake Trek. You’ll find all the details, including the itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, and prices. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our customer support team, who will be happy to assist you.

Personal and Group Information: Once you have decided to book the package, fill out the booking form on our website with the necessary personal and group information. Please ensure that all details are accurate, as any mistakes or omissions may lead to issues during the trek.

Confirmation: Once you submit the booking form, our company representative will review your information and contact you within 24 hours to confirm your booking. We will send you our standard agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the booking. Please read the agreement carefully and ask us if you have any questions.

Advance Payment: To confirm your booking, we require a 20% advance payment of the total cost of the package. You can make the payment through our secure online payment gateway, which accepts all major credit and debit cards. Alternatively, we can send you a payment link or provide you with our bank details for a direct bank transfer.

Booking Confirmation: Once we receive your advance payment and signed agreement, we will confirm your booking and send you a receipt of payment. We will also provide you with a detailed itinerary, packing list, and other essential information to prepare you for the trek.

Pre-Trek Briefing: Before the trek starts, we will conduct a pre-trek briefing, either in person or online, to go over the itinerary, safety protocols, and other relevant information. This briefing is essential to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

We hope that this updated booking process meets your requirements and makes it easier for your customers to book our Gokyo Lake Trek package. If you have any further questions or suggestions, please let us know, and we’ll be happy to help.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport, Nepal (Altitude: 1360m)
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
Day 03: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight and Trek to Phakding (Altitude: 2,800m and 2652m)
Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (Altitude: 3,440m)
Day 05: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (Altitude: 3,440m)
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazar  to Phorse (Altitude: 3,810m)
Day 07: Trek from Phorse to Machhermo (Altitude: 4,470m)
Day 08: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (Altitude: 4,800m)
Day 09: Explore Gokoy Valley and Climb Gokyo Ri Peak (Altitude: 5357m)
Day 10: Trek from Gokyo to Dole (Altitude: 4,090m)
Day 11: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar (Altitude: 3,440m)
Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (Altitude: 2,840m)
Day 13: Take a Flight to Kathmandu (Altitude: 1,360m)
Day 14: Final Departure