Gokyo Lakes Trek

Kathmandu is an incredible, vibrant, and wild city that we’ve fallen in love with. That’s why we’re always so excited to receive you on the first day and share the gateway to the Himalayas with you.

On arrival day, you’ll be met by an LHO representative at the airport and driven to our centrally located hotel by private transfer. Navigating Kathmandu airport can be an adventure in and of itself, so you’ll receive a text with detailed instructions on how to efficiently make your way to us.

Your LHO Team Leader will be waiting to receive you at our hotel, check you in, and make sure that you have everything you need for our adventure. If you arrive early, there are loads of incredible places to visit around us. Your LHO Team Leader will send you a detailed list of restaurants, coffee shops, heritage sites, and markets to visit closer to your trip start date so that you can make the most of your time.

Our first official event of the trip is a team dinner at 7:30 pm hosted by your LHO Team Leader and local lead guide. This will be your first opportunity to meet everyone, ask any questions you have, hear all about the amazing week ahead of us, and enjoy a great meal. Although it’s difficult not to be tempted by the nearby nightlife, we recommend an early rest to recover from your travels.

Distance: 8.7 KM | Ascent: 364 M | Descent: 521 M | Max Altitude: 2,860 M

Our day starts after breakfast as we make our way to the airport to board one of the most incredible flights you’ll ever take. As with all internal flights, delays are expected. Flights to Lukla are particularly notorious for never departing on time. Not to worry, though, every moment spent waiting is worth it when we get there. The flight itself takes about fifty minutes.

Once in Lukla, we’ll be met by our porter team who will collect our duffle bags and take them to a local tea house where we’ll have lunch and prepare ourselves for the trek to Phakding. Lukla is one of the most vibrant villages in the Khumbu region. It’s an important hub of local and regional commerce as well as the border to the sacred high-altitude regions. Above Lukla, animal slaughter is religiously banned. That’s why we don’t recommend choosing any meat or chicken options above Lukla.

The trail begins at the entrance of the village and is actually mostly descending in the alpine forests and through the many towns that dot this section of the trail. The Tibetan influence and Buddhist character of the area are immediately apparent in the calligraphy, architecture, and religious stupas and shrines.

Our accommodation sits just above Phakding near the Khumbu river that is formed from the melting glaciers of the towering summits of the region, including Everest. Depending on our arrival time, it may be possible to explore the coffee shops and market streets of the village before dinner.

Distance: 9.1 KM | Ascent: 1,095 M | Descent: 380 M | Max Altitude: 3,440 M

Our second day on the trail will be a full-on ascent to an impressive altitude of 3,445 meters, arriving at one of the most vibrant and remote high-altitude towns on the planet: Namche Bazaar. The trail begins by following the river and passes through the alpine forests. The trail is once again dotted by a series of villages and farming communities that add an incredible element of rural life to the walk.

Our first main objective is reaching the town of Monjo. This is the official entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. There is a brief checkpoint where we present your permits to the authorities. Once through, we’ll descend a series of staircases flanked by Tibetan calligraphy carved into the rocks. We’ll stop for lunch at the last village in the valley before the direct ascent to Namche Bazaar. The trail to Namche is predominantly ascending and sustained. Your LHO Team Leader will help set the pace so that we can efficiently overcome the challenge without wasting energy unnecessarily.

Slow and steady is the name of the game here as we make our way up a series of stairs, cross the epic Tenzing-Hillary suspension bridge, and join the winding trail through the pine forest that leads to the village entrance. There’s a viewpoint of Everest halfway up to the top. On a clear day, this offers the first opportunity to see the world’s highest summit, albeit from afar. We’ll also use this as an opportunity to take a break and use the serviced bathrooms available there.

The reward at the end of our ascent is our arrival in the incredible Sherpa town of Namche, nestled between the towering summits of the high Himalayas. After checking into our tea house, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the markets, coffee shops, and bars that give this place so much life. This will be our home for the next two nights. Dinner will be at our tea house.

Distance: 5.5 KM | Ascent: 503 M | Descent: 503 M | Max Altitude: 3,700 M

We’ll be staying in Namche Bazaar for a second night. That means we don’t have to repack our bags or check out from the Tea House. Our day will slowly start after breakfast. We’ll climb to the top of the town and visit the Sherpa museum where we can learn about the Sherpa culture, mountaineering history of the region, and about new sustainability practices that your visit to the region helps finance.

From there, we’ll trek to the hilltop high above the village to acclimatize by exposing ourselves to higher altitudes. The hilltop offers a jaw-dropping view of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, three of the most iconic summits on the planet. We’ll be able to see all the way up the Khumbu valley and get a visual representation of what lies ahead of us.

Distance: 10 KM | Ascent: 895 M | Descent: 592 M | Max Altitude: 3,965 M

Our journey begins with an ascent from Namche to the Syangboche airstrip, a site that offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The summits visible include Kande, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and eventually Mount Everest as well!

As we continue, the trail leads us to Khumjung, the largest village in the Khumbu region, known for its traditional Sherpa houses and the famous Khumjung Monastery. Walking through the village, you’ll feel the rich cultural heritage that pervades this high-altitude settlement. Leaving Khumjung behind also means leaving the crowds of trekkers and climbers that dot the traditional Everest Base Camp route. From here, our trail becomes far less crowded and far more remote.

The trail then contours around the lower slopes of Khumbila, a sacred mountain for the Sherpas, passing through serene birch forests where the air is crisp and filled with the scent of the wilderness. Reaching a stupa on a rocky ridge at 3,992 meters, we pause to take in the breathtaking panoramic views. This is the gateway to the Gokyo Valley, at the end of which is the impressive south face of Cho Oyu, the world’s 6th highest mountain.

We usually pause for lunch here before beginning our descent into the tranquil woodlands surrounding Phortse Tenga, nestled quietly by the river. This is our home for the evening, and what an incredible home it is. The sound of the river against the view of the rhododendron forest makes it one of the most tranquil spots to sleep anywhere in the Khumbu region.

Distance: 3.5 KM | Ascent: 480 M | Descent: 0 M | Max Altitude: 4,050 M

To ensure proper acclimatisation, our journey to Gokyo is paced over three days. After breakfast, we’ll depart Phortse Tenga and embark on a sustained and steep ascent through the forest that quickly begins to thin as we gain altitude. It won’t take long before the incredible landscape opens up to reveal spectacular vistas of towering peaks such as Kantega, Thamserku, and the majestic Ama Dablam. With modest pacing and well-timed breaks, the ascent can be quite manageable and made easier by the incredibly rewarding environment that we find ourselves in. The trail contours high above the valley, providing a bird’s-eye view of the lush, green pastures and deep ravines below. The sacred mountain of Tabuche dominates the opposite bank of the valley to our right, and its beautiful ridge line connecting to Cholaste summit moves alongside us a few thousand meters into the sky.

Before long, the trail passes through the yak herding settlements of Tongba and Gyele, where the presence of these hardy animals adds a rustic charm to the journey. This is usually our lunch spot, although which of the two we stop in depends entirely on the pace of the team and the weather conditions of the day. As we approach Dole, the landscape transforms into an alpine wonderland with rolling meadows and distant snow-capped mountains creating a picture-perfect backdrop. Here, the tea houses are much more spread out and all boast incredible views. Sunsets in the Gokyo Valley are second to none and, weather permitting, this is our first opportunity to experience it.

Distance: 5.2 KM | Ascent: 441 M | Descent: 80 M | Max Altitude: 4,427 M

Our day begins with a steep climb, the trail winding upward alongside the valley high above the river. The path is rugged, traversing sandy spurs and rocky outcrops that both challenge and inspire. As we progress, the views become increasingly dramatic, with Machhermo Peak and Kaju Ri along the left side of the valley and Cholatse dominating the right side among the dozens of other jagged peaks rising majestically around us.

After the initial climb, the trail follows what the locals call “Nepali Flat.” This implies hilly terrain that ascends and descends haphazardly without any overall change in altitude. We’ll follow the Nepali Flat until we reach Machhermo, a picturesque village set against a stunning backdrop of towering mountains. At the end of the Machhermo Valley is Machhermo Peak, towering high above the village. The serenity of this place, coupled with the sweeping panoramic vistas, makes this yet another unique place to rest, recover, and spend some time alone with the highest mountains on the planet. The village itself is a charming collection of stone houses and tea lodges. There are usually a few wild yaks around as well!

We usually arrive relatively early on this day, giving us time to allow our bodies to recover and acclimatise for the high-altitude environment that lies ahead. Dinner will be hosted at our tea house in the village.

Distance: 7.3 KM | Ascent: 442 M | Descent: 67 M | Max Altitude: 4,756 M

Today’s trek takes us along a ridge, where the valley begins to widen, offering expansive views that stretch for miles. After breakfast, we head out in a northbound direction, where the trail leads us to Pangka, a peaceful spot where the beauty of the landscape is accentuated by the clear, crisp air. Here, the tranquility of the surroundings provides a perfect moment to pause and soak in the serene atmosphere. At a fork in the trail, we choose the path to Gokyo on the left, while the right path leads to the Cholaste base camp across the river.

After a brief descent, we climb to a large cave area known as Nilibuk, a place steeped in ancient myths and natural wonder. The cave, with its intriguing formations and historical significance, invites a sense of curiosity and exploration.

Continuing on, we arrive at the first of Gokyo’s five enchanting turquoise lakes, each one more mesmerizing than the last, set against the towering backdrop of snow-capped peaks, the highest of which is Cho Oyu. The pristine waters of these glacial lakes reflect the stunning panorama, creating a breathtaking and otherworldly scene. The landscape here is truly a testament to the raw beauty of the high Himalayas, with its rugged terrain, vibrant hues, and majestic peaks that seem to touch the sky.

As we make our way through this ethereal environment, the awe-inspiring vistas and serene surroundings remind us of the remarkable journey we are on and the incredible natural wonders that await us at every turn. Our evening is spent in the lakeside town of Gokyo. There are few words that can truly capture just how magnificent this place is.

Distance: 3.3 KM | Ascent: 590 M | Descent: 590 M | Max Altitude: 5,360 M

Before dawn, we begin our hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), a challenging ascent that rewards us with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Himalayas. The trek is moderately inclined, but at these altitudes, even gradual ascents can feel very challenging. Although climbing Gokyo Ri is optional, we highly recommend it.

As the trail ascends, the width of the mountain begins to shrink, culminating in a pinnacle at the top, which typically takes around three hours to reach. Once there, the views are jaw-dropping. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu are just a few of the famous summits that open up in front of us. We can even see the famous South Col of Mount Everest, where climbers pitch Camp Four before making their ascent to the summit.

As the sun rises, the peaks of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu are bathed in a golden glow, a sight that leaves a lasting impression. Once we’ve enjoyed ourselves and taken loads of pictures, we’ll make our way back down to the tea house. The rest of the day is free for you to rest, relax, or take an optional exploratory walk around the Gokyo region, a landscape filled with natural wonders and tranquil beauty. We recommend recovering as much as possible because the next day, trekking over the pass into the Khumbu Valley, is the most objectively challenging day of the trip.

Distance: 12 KM | Ascent: 631 M | Descent: 1,044 M | Max Altitude: 5,370 M

After breakfast, we start early for the longest and most demanding part of our trek. A three-hour climb, tackled at a slow, steady, and sustained pace, brings us to the top of Renjo La Pass (5,360m), where we are greeted with yet another incredible view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, and the shimmering Gokyo Lakes below. The panoramic vista from the pass offers a breathtaking tableau of snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes, making every step of the arduous climb worthwhile.

The pass itself may be snow-covered, requiring careful navigation and the occasional use of ropes. Renjo La Pass is a summit in its own right, and reaching it is a great achievement.

The descent from Renjo La is steep initially, with the trail zigzagging down the mountain’s rugged face. Trekking poles are essential to safely descend and protect the knees. As we carefully make our way down, the terrain gradually eases, and we are welcomed by the serene and isolated settlement of Lumdeng, our home for the evening.

Distance: 10 KM | Ascent: 109 M | Descent: 666 M | Max Altitude: 4,343 M

With the toughest days behind us, today’s trek to Thame feels more relaxed. The trail descends through yak grazing pastures and the quaint village of Marulung, where the rhythm of pastoral life offers a stark contrast to the rugged wilderness we’ve traversed. Here, the sight of yaks grazing peacefully and the simple, rustic charm of village life provide a serene and calming atmosphere.

As we continue, the landscape gradually transitions from the high, barren alpine terrain to lush, verdant valleys. The trail winds its way along the river, and the sound of flowing water accompanies us as we trek. Thame itself is steeped in history, once a crucial junction on an ancient trade route between Tibet and Nepal. The village is renowned for its association with famous Everest summiteers, including Tenzing Norgay and Apa Sherpa, and its rich cultural heritage.

Upon arrival in Thame, you’ll feel the palpable sense of history and tradition that has shaped this remarkable community. The village is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region, Thame Monastery, which sits perched on a hillside overlooking the village. The monastery, with its ancient murals and prayer wheels, provides a glimpse into the deep spiritual roots of the local Sherpa culture.

Distance: 14.5 KM | Ascent: 474 M | Descent: 1,426 M | Max Altitude: 3,797 M

Thame is the last truly remote village along the trail. After breakfast, we’ll head out for a long descending day towards Namche Bazaar and then onwards to Monjo. The trail starts with a long descent along the Bhote Koshi River, followed by a few sections of Nepali flat as we approach Namche Bazaar from the northwest.

As we approach Namche, we’ll start to see small market stalls along the trail and the familiar sight of donkey caravans, which are replaced by yaks at higher altitudes. We can’t pass through the town without stopping, so we’ve designated it as our lunch spot. Depending on our pace, it may be possible to roam around before we continue our descent through the forest, across the Tenzing-Hillary Suspension Bridge, and finally to the valley floor where the town of Monjo awaits. Our night will be spent at a tea house in the town.

Distance: 12.6 KM | Ascent: 722 M | Descent: 715 M | Max Altitude: 2,835 M

The end of the trail is the Sherpa village of Lukla, home to the Tenzing-Hillary airport. Monjo is within a few hours of Lukla. This gives us the option of catching a flight out on this day instead of the next, should we find that weather may obstruct flights on the following day. Assuming that the conditions are favorable, we’ll start slowly after breakfast and take our time to visit and enjoy the many villages that are along this section of the trail. Yes, we did pass through them on the way up, but the mindset was different. It’s so much more enjoyable to have this experience once the objective of the adventure is behind us. Lunch will be in Phakding along the trail, and we’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for tea and coffee. The final push to Lukla is a mild challenge as we ascend a series of stairs and village trails to the entrance of the town. The afternoon is free to explore the coffee shops, pubs, markets, and stores. We’ll spend our last night on the trail at a local Tea House, where we’ll also share our last trail dinner.

Hot showers await us on our return to Kathmandu! We’ll be catching our flight out early in the morning; however, this depends entirely on the weather situation. Patience is key when it comes to aviation in Nepal, although we’ll do our best to make it as smooth as possible. Depending on when we move, lunch will either be in Lukla, Kathmandu, or the alternative airport sometimes used to direct Lukla air traffic that is inbound to Kathmandu. Wherever we finally land, we’ll do our best to get you to the hotel as soon as possible so that you can shower, rest, and enjoy Kathmandu before our farewell dinner.

The last day together is dedicated to airport transfer and farewells. Breakfast is included on the day. Please make sure to provide us with the correct departure details when filling out your Team Details Form before the first day of the trip so that arrangements can be made.

We’ll be arranging your shuttle 3 hours before departure, so please make sure to be near the hotel at the time so as not to be late. For those of us departing late, we’re happy to recommend places to visit or arrange for a city tour if you weren’t able to attend it on the first day. Please communicate any changes to your flight with your LHO Team Leader as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made.