Gokyo Lakes Trek

Gokyo Lakes Trek - 13 Days
G01
G00
G02
G03
G04
G05
G06
G07
G08
G09
G10
G11
Gl00
Go 00
Go 01
Go 02
Duration
13 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5,357 m
Group Size
1-20 People
Starts/Ends
Kathmandu - Kathmandu
Communication
Phone & Wi-Fi
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Autumn and Spring

Everest, Sagarmatha, or Chomolungma—however you know it, the tallest mountain in the world is a lure that many trekkers simply can’t resist. This sacred peak sits in the high-altitude Khumbu region of the Himalayas, and it’s here that we’ll find some of the best treks in Nepal: the Everest Base Camp Trek, Everest View Trek, and Three Passes Trek. These world-famous hiking itineraries will bring you well above 5,000 meters in elevation to explore the very heart of the Himalayas, and for that reason they represent some of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. Thousands of travelers visit the Khumbu each year, seeking high adventure in the shadow of Nepal’s most scenic mountains. But what if you want to enjoy the spectacle of the Khumbu without the crowds?

That’s where the Gokyo Lakes Trek comes in. This alternative trek in the Everest region offers all the stunning views of the world’s highest mountain that your heart could desire, and it visits the most important historic settlements of the Khumbu. From scenic villages like Namche Bazaar, you’ll enjoy first-rate panoramas of Everest, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and other Himalayan giants. But you’ll also ascend to the high-altitude waters of the six Gokyo Lakes, where few travelers tread. Under the guidance of the professionals at Iconic Himalaya Adventure, you’ll diverge from the crowded route of the Everest Base Camp Trek and ascend west into an unblemished natural environment where forests still cling to steep mountainsides and hardy villagers pursue timeless ways of life in villages of surpassing beauty.

These villages are populated by Nepali locals of Sherpa heritage: the very same ethnic group that’s achieved worldwide fame as mountaineers, guides, and porters on high-altitude Himalayan expeditions. While you won’t be doing any technical climbing on the Gokyo Lakes Trek, you’ll quickly come to appreciate the skill and knowledge of these friendly folk. The Sherpa people also have rich cultural traditions, and your guide from Iconic Himalaya Adventure will help you to learn about them. From the Sherpa Culture Museum at Namche Bazaar to the chortens and Mani walls you’ll find along the mountain trails of the Gokyo Lakes Trek, you’ll discover a world of tradition and beauty here in the Khumbu: one of the best trekking regions in Nepal.

Route Overview

At Iconic Himalaya Adventure, we’ve spent years in these mountains—and we know all the best treks in the Everest region. That’s how we’ve curated the perfect itinerary to explore the heart of the Khumbu. Your own adventure will begin in the little town of Lukla, where you’ll follow the storied route of the Everest Base Camp Trek for about three days before splitting off to explore lesser-known stretches of the Himalayas. Your path will lead to the authentic villages of Dole and Machhermo before arriving at the spectacular Gokyo Lakes themselves: six alpine reservoirs situated amongst mountains and glaciers of astonishing beauty. Your experienced trekking guide will help you to understand the cultural and ecological significance of these high-altitude lakes before taking you on an exciting journey to summit the 5360-meter viewpoint of Gokyo Ri. There are few treks in Nepal which can rival the sheer natural splendor of this incredible Himalayan environment.

After reaching Gokyo, we’ll retrace our steps through the Khumbu to reach Namche Bazaar and eventually return to Lukla. Your guide will be able to pick out fresh trails to explore along the way, ensuring that each day of the Gokyo Lakes Trek is fresh and exciting. And when your trek in Nepal is over, you’ll still have a few days in Kathmandu to explore the scenic and cultural wonders of our capital city. Did you know that the Kathmandu Valley is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites? With the help of Iconic Himalaya Adventure, you’ll get to explore the best of them.

Highlights

  • Feast your eyes upon the spectacle of the tallest mountain in the world: Mount Everest
  • Leave the tourist trail behind to visit the sapphire waters of the six alpine Gokyo Lakes
  • Climb to 5360m in elevation to reach the jaw-dropping viewpoint of Gokyo Ri
  • Acquaint yourself with the time-honored traditions of the Sherpa people
Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary
Kathmandu - KathmanduExpand all

Welcome to Nepal! When your plane touches down at the Tribhuvan International Airport, a team from Iconic Himalaya Adventure will be waiting to meet you and transfer you to a hotel here in Kathmandu. First, we’ll take some time to explain everything you can expect on your upcoming Gokyo Lakes Trek—then you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore. Even the most jaded travelers will be swept away by the wonder of Nepal’s historic capital city—it’s the largest in the country, but it’s full of narrow, intimate streets lined with perfumed shops and fragrant restaurants. You’ll spend one night here before setting off for adventure in the morning.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m.|4,776 ft. Accommodation: 2-3 Star hotelMode of Travel: Pickup by private car/vanDuration: 20 to 30 MinutesDistance: 5 kilometer

Before we can begin trekking in the Everest region, we have to get there—so we’ll make an early start this morning with a flight to Lukla. This is a short hop in a small plane, but it offers a good look at some of the most fantastic Himalayan scenery in the country. When we arrive in Lukla, we’ll meet up with our trekking team and set off for the mountains of the Khumbu. We’ll pass the small villages of Cheplung and Ghat along the way, coming across many chortens and prayer wheels which speak to the Buddhist culture of the region. Then it’s a gentle hike for a few hours to reach Phakding, where we’ll spend our first night on the trail in the best available guesthouse.

Please note: recent renovations at Tribhuvan International Airport require some Lukla-bound flights to leave from Ramechhap Airport. If this affects your itinerary, we’ll make any necessary arrangements for your flight.

Max Altitude: 2,610 m.|9,199 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: Flight and WalkingDuration: 4 to 5 HoursDistance: 7.5 Kilometer

Today’s section of the Gokyo Lakes Trek follows the watercourse of the Dudh Koshi river as it rises into the heights of the Everest region. We’ll trek in the cool shadow of green fir trees interspersed here and there with colorful rhododendron blooms before entering the Sagarmatha National Park, which shares its name with the highest mountain in the world. Along the way, we’ll catch remarkable views of Thamserku, make our way across a gravity-defying suspension bridge, and even get our first peek at Everest itself. After about six hours of trekking, we’ll pull into Namche Bazaar: the historic trading center of the Khumbu.

Max Altitude: 3,440 m.|11,286 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 10.8 Kilometer

Trekking in the Everest region involves challenging ascents to high altitudes, and it’s important that we don’t move too quickly. We’ll spend an extra day in Namche Bazaar to help our bodies acclimatize to this elevation—and fortunately, there’s plenty here to keep us busy. We’ll visit the nearby Sherpa Culture Museum, as well as the national park’s visitor center. If you’d like to stay active, we can also make the three-hour acclimatization hike the well-known Hotel Everest View. Himalayan viewpoints don’t get much better than this: you’ll have a front-row ticket to Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Thamserku. Later, we’ll return to our guesthouse for a second night here in Namche.

Max Altitude: 3,880 m.|12,729 ft. back to 3,440 m.|11,286 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 3 to 4 hoursDistance: 4/ 5 Kilometers

Our Gokyo Lakes Trek diverges from other treks in the Khumbu today, as we’ll be ascending stark, dramatic ridgelines in the direction of Dole instead of making for Tengboche. That said, you can expect to catch a glimpse of Tengboche during the first half of today’s trek—although you’d be forgiven if your eyes are glued instead to the sheer mountain faces of Ama Dablam, Taboche, and Cholatse. Moving on, we’ll pass through the Buddhist community of Mong La and the village of Phortse Thenga before making the final push along a gentle trail leading through pine forests and wooded hillsides to reach Dole.

Max Altitude: 4,038 m.|13,248 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 6 to 7 HoursDistance: 12 Kilometers

Today we’ll continue to climb through the Khumbu, ascending more than 300 meters as we draw closer to the Gokyo Lakes. We’ll leave the forest behind and enter a world where hardy juniper shrubs cling to the steep sides of the valley, passing a local chorten and a few seasonal herders’ huts. We don’t have much ground to cover today, so we’ll take our time to really enjoy the marvelous views of Cho Oyu, Taboche, Cholatse, and Kangtega. These are some of the best views on any trek in Nepal—and we haven’t even reached the Gokyo Lakes yet. This afternoon, we’ll wind our way into the little town of Machhermo, where we’ll select an available teahouse for tonight’s accommodations.

Max Altitude: 4,470 m.|14,665 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 4 to 5 HoursDistance: 7 Kilometers

After a week in the Himalayas of Nepal, it’s time to explore the high-altitude Gokyo Lakes. We’ll start by climbing into serious mountain territory, where ice-covered giants like Cho Oyu and Kangtega rise above the barren summits of many smaller nameless peaks. We’ll pass through a small village nestled against the moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier before climbing along its rubble-strewn path and arriving at the first of the magnificent Gokyo Lakes: Longponga Tsho. Moving on, we’ll also visit Taujung Tsho before arriving at Gokyo Tsho—and the settlement of Gokyo itself—after about four or five hours of trekking. We’ll select the best teahouse commanding sublime views of the lake’s sapphire waters before settling in for the day to relish our accomplishments and take in the scenery.

After a week in the Himalayas of Nepal, it’s time to explore the high-altitude Gokyo Lakes. We’ll start by climbing into serious mountain territory, where ice-covered giants like Cho Oyu and Kangtega rise above the barren summits of many smaller nameless peaks. We’ll pass through a small village nestled against the moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier before climbing along its rubble-strewn path and arriving at the first of the magnificent Gokyo Lakes: Longponga Tsho. Moving on, we’ll also visit Taujung Tsho before arriving at Gokyo Tsho—and the settlement of Gokyo itself—after about four or five hours of trekking. We’ll select the best teahouse commanding sublime views of the lake’s sapphire waters before settling in for the day to relish our accomplishments and take in the scenery.

Max Altitude: 4,790 m.|15,715 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 4 to 5hoursDistance: 7.5 Kilometers

Today represents both the figurative and literal height of our Gokyo Lakes Trek. We’ll get an early start this morning, leaving Gokyo from its northern perimeter and making the steep climb to the epic viewpoint known as Gokyo Ri. Himalayan panoramas don’t get much better than this: the shimmering waters of Gokyo Tsho lie far below you, and the frost-wreathed summits of Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, Makalu, and Taboche rise beyond the massive bulk of the Ngozumpa Glacier. After savoring this spectacular view to its utmost, we’ll begin the return leg of our Gokyo Lakes Trek, retracing our steps to Machhermo to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,357 m.|17,575 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 7 to 8 HoursDistance: 11 Kilometers total

After breakfast this morning, we’ll continue to follow the path of the Gokyo Lakes Trek in reverse as it crosses breathtaking alpine scenery on the way back to Namche Bazaar. Although we’ve already covered this ground over the last few days, we can explore additional side routes and alternative trails, following the Dudh Koshi river as it approaches the village of Phortse. From here, the river joins the winding watercourse of the Imja Khola beneath the mighty face of Taboche, and we’ll follow a gentle path through verdant, shaded woodlands to reach Namche Bazaar after about seven or eight hours of trekking.

Max Altitude: 3,440 m.|11,286 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 6/7 hoursDistance: 19 Kilometers

As we near the end of our Gokyo Lakes Trek, we still have one full day of trekking in the Everest region to enjoy to its fullest. After bidding a fond farewell to historic Namche Bazaar, we’ll catch our final glimpse of Mount Everest and continue downhill alongside the glacial waters of the Dudh Koshi. We’ll cross back and forth over the river on hanging bridges, passing out of the Sagarmatha National Park and through a few small villages before arriving in Lukla. This is where our adventure began, and this is where it will end—but not before a night of celebration, where we’ll dine with our trekking crew and visit one or two of Lukla’s famous bakeries.

Max Altitude: 2,804 m.|9,199 ft. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest house or lodgeMode of Travel: WalkingDuration: 6 to 7 HoursDistance: 17.5

After a full week of trekking in Nepal, it’s time to board our flight back to Kathmandu. If you’re lucky enough to get a window seat, you’ll enjoy one last look at the staggering expanse of the Khumbu: one of the best trekking regions in Nepal, and home to the mighty Mount Everest. When we land in Kathmandu and get checked into your hotel, you’ll have most of the day at your leisure. If you’re looking for authentic souvenirs which reflect the Hindu and Buddhist cultures of Nepal, you’ll quickly discover that the Thamel district of Kathmandu is a shopper’s paradise. And when it’s time for dinner, you’ll be spoiled for choice—you can find every cuisine under the sun here in the city, and your guide will help you with some excellent recommendations.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m.|4,776 ft. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 2-3 Star hotelMode of Travel: Flight and car/vanDuration: 1 Hours total

With a full day at our disposal, it’s time to see the best of Kathmandu’s world-famous cultural and architectural attractions. We’ll visit the massive Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath before moving on to explore the enormous Buddhist stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath—the latter is known as the “Monkey Temple” and is particularly popular with visitors. The historic temples at Kathmandu Durbar Square are next on our list, and it’s here that you’ll find some of the most beautiful architecture in Nepal. And whether you prefer street food or fine dining, you’ll discover plenty of options when it comes to lunch and dinner. This evening, you’ll return to your hotel to spend one last night in Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1,455 m.|4,776 ft. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 2-3 Star hotelMode of Travel: Private car/van with tour guideDuration: 5 to 6 Hours

Now that you’ve successfully completed the Gokyo Lakes Trek and climbed to the breathless heights of Gokyo Ri, it’s time to bid farewell to the mountains of the Himalayas. We hope that you’ve had a fantastic time exploring Nepal with your guide and trekking crew. Thank you for choosing Iconic Himalaya Adventure to arrange your trek in Nepal—we hope to welcome you back when you’re ready for another trek!

Max Altitude: 1,455 m.|4,776 ft. Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Check out from the hotelMode of Travel: Drop to the airport by car/ vanDuration: 20 to 30 MinutesDistance: 5/6 Kilometers
Unable to locate what are you seeking?Download brochure or customize your trip.
Customize Trip
Route Map
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Altitude Chart
Gokyo Lakes Trek
Cost Details
Includes
  • In-country Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle.
  • Standard accommodation at a hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
  • Heritage side or city tourist area tour guided in Kathmandu by private car.
  • Internal Surface transfer to the trip destination, Start and End, or Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
  • One professional, experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking Local Guide during the trek.
  • Porters to carry your luggage up to 25 kg (per 2 trekkers, 1 porter).
  • All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, main courses).
  • The best available accommodations are in lodges (Guest houses) during the trek.
  • Staff salary, insurance, equipment, domestic travel fare, food, and accommodation during the trek.
  • All necessary paperwork, Sagarmatha National Park entry permit (SNPP), and Pashanglhamu rural municipality permit (PRMP).
  • Flight fare (Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu) with domestic airport taxes.
  • Water purification tablets to purify your water during the trek for safe drinking water.
  • Medical first aid kit for all (carried by your guide).
  • All our government, local taxes/VAT, and office expenses.
  • Seasonal fresh fruit desserts are available every evening after dinner.
  • Appreciation of ART’s certificate after your successful trek.
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and a duffel bag – if Necessary (return after the trek).
  • Complimentary free company T-shirt and trek route map.
  • Emergency rescue operation assistance will be arranged in case of complex health conditions, which is funded by your travel insurance.
Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fee, you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory) has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation.
  • Meals (lunch & dinner in Kathmandu) before and after the trek.
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks, bar bills, Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charges.
  • Personnel trekking and climbing equipment.
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
  • Excess baggage charges during a domestic flight.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Optional trips and sightseeing if extended.
  • Gratitude to the guides, porters, and other staff.
  • Any other services that are not listed in the price “included section” of this package.

Note:

-The schedule of travel itinerary will be changeable if travelers are required before booking confirmation.

-For the trip booking confirmation, travelers should be paid in advance 25% of the total amount 2 months before.

Dates & Availability

We welcome travelers at Iconic Himalaya Adventure from all over the world, offering fixed departure-oriented services and customized private tours and trekking packages as your convenience. Once more, we inform you, individuals, families, friends, students, and adventure-seeking groups that we strive to meet the expectations of everyone to ensure a personalized travel experience.

Gokyo Lakes Trek Equipments

Equipment and accessories are essential to fully prepare for any kind of adventure and ensure an easy, hassle-free journey. A systematic way one can follow while packing is by checking items necessary from head to toe. This minimizes the risk of overlooking essential items. The iconic Himalaya Adventure team has developed a detailed packing list that will be advantageous for all trekkers venturing into the Himalayas, ensuring a successful hiking experience. Our recommendations are derived from our extensive experience. Below are the essentials required for any basic trek in Nepal.

Equipment and Accessories packing list

Bag pack
Trekking bag: For the trek, bringing a backpack with comfortable features and adjustable straps is crucial. For a week-long trek, a capacity of 40 to 60 liters is typically adequate. Ensure the backpack includes effective hip belts, shoulder support, ample pockets, and a design that allows for quick accessibility of your items and ventilated back panels to enhance comfort during daily use.
Additionally, selecting an appropriately sized and fitted backpack enables you to carry all necessary items while maintaining comfort and mobility. Minor adjustments can significantly improve usability. It is essential that your backpack moves with you and doesn’t hinder your motion.
Daypack: All trekkers are advised to also consider carrying a daypack. It is important to note that you will not be required to carry your backpack every day; therefore, for day excursions, shorter hikes, and sightseeing activities, a daypack will prove to be an invaluable asset. A small backpack can be handy for carrying daily essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, hat/scarf, or even a notebook and pen if needed.

Footwear
Trekking Shoes:Whether you’re trekking in the hills of the Kathmandu Valley or climbing into the high Himalayas, trekking boots will be your most important piece of equipment. We recommend choosing waterproof boots that provide high ankle support, are lightweight, warm, and comfortable. Mid-cut or high-cut shoes are particularly suitable for adventure activities, including extended treks, as well as casual day hikes. And it’s a good idea to break them in before you start your trek in the Himalayas. While boots with a high, padded collar are best for supporting your ankles, some trekkers prefer trekking shoes that are lighter and may be even more comfortable. You may want to carry those that suit your preference and need the best.
Hiking Sandals/Sneakers: These footwear options can be utilized during the non-trekking hours of the morning and evening or while at hotels and camps. They serve as a comfortable alternative, allowing the feet to rest from heavier boots. Additionally, hiking sandals or sneakers can be useful on less steep trails, giving your feet a much-needed change. They can also be used for safely crossing streams and rivers as they provide greater comfort and safety compared to being barefoot or getting your boots wet.

Clothing
Jacket: A warm jacket is essential for cold weather. Choose a jacket that is waterproof and windproof, and provides good insulation.
Fleece or hoodie: Fleece jackets or hoodies serve as excellent mid-layer options for maintaining warmth. It is recommended to bring at least two, as they can also function as additional layers during nighttime or for hygiene purposes.
Trekking pants: Consider acquiring long pants made from a nylon blend that are waterproof, windproof, lightweight, and quick-drying. Warm alternatives such as fleece-lined tracksuit pants or specialized hiking pants can also be considered.
T-shirts: We recommend opting for quick-drying T-shirts constructed from breathable and moisture-wicking materials. This choice will aid in keeping you cool and dry during your trekking activities. They also help prevent you from catching a cold easily in the higher altitudes.
Long-Sleeve shirts: A long-sleeve shirt can serve as an effective base layer on colder days or while traversing high passes.
Thermals (upper and lower): While you’ll be staying at warm and comfortable guesthouses during your trek in Nepal, there’s no denying that nights in the mountains are cold. At Iconic Himalaya Adventure, we recommend bringing at least one thermal top-and-bottom outfit on your trek. These are also known as base layers or long johns. A good pair of thermals will trap your body heat and keep you warm. We recommend going with wool fabric for your base layer.
Gloves: Your hands will be exposed to cold mountain winds when you hike in the Himalayas, particularly if you’re using trekking poles. This is especially true of those treks in Nepal which rise into real mountain territory above 4,000 or 5,000 meters in elevation. A pair of gloves will keep your hands warm in the upper himalayas, especially when it’s snowing but they aren’t necessary for every trek in Nepal. Consider specialized mountaineering gloves if you expect to be doing any climbing or scrambling.
Buff/neck gaiter: Wearing a buff, neck gaiter, or scarf around your face and neck will protect you from the worst of the cold mountain winds—not to mention the dusty road conditions that you’ll find at lower elevations here in Nepal. You probably won’t need this for the entirety of your trek, but it’s a great piece of gear to wear around your neck and pull up whenever you need it. These useful products are made of both synthetic fabric and wool, and they can be purchased at most outdoor retailers.
Beanie Cap: A beanie is a valuable item for colder and windy days; it is recommended to carry at least one. It can also be used at night when temperatures drop significantly.
Hiking Hat: While sunglasses will protect your eyes when you’re trekking in Nepal, you’re going to want something to keep the sun from the rest of your face. A good sun hat is an important part of every trekker’s kit, particularly as you hike for extended hours. While any wide-brimmed hat is a good choice, you might consider a hat with a high UPF rating. These hats are made of ultraviolet protection fabric, and they’re a good choice for travelers whose skin burns easily.
Socks: During your trek in Nepal, you’ll rely on hiking socks and liners to keep your feet warm and to protect them from blisters. While you’ll find synthetic hiking socks on the market, we recommend choosing socks made of wool: it’s more comfortable, regulates temperature more efficiently, and doesn’t tend to get too smelly. When choosing your hiking socks and liners, you should also think about the shoes you’ll be wearing: you’ll want to make sure that your socks rise above the ankle of your shoes or boots to avoid chafing. We recommend you to carry atleast one pair of socks for each day of the trek.
Rain cover/poncho: A rain cover or poncho is essential for keeping both you and your gear dry in the event of unexpected rainfall or snowfall.
Knee Caps: If you have trouble with your knees in the cold or when climbing stairs, knee caps are your friends. They help not only by keeping your knees warm but also by supporting them during long hours of walking

Sleeping bag & liner
Comfortable accommodations at family-owned guesthouses, are present in most treks in Nepal where you’ll be treated to a clean bed and some blankets to keep you warm. But the nights of the high Himalaya can be very cold, and you’ll want to bring your own sleeping bag that’s rated to -20 degrees Celsius to withstand the worst weather. If you can’t bring your own, Iconic Himalaya Adventure will provide a sleeping bag for the duration of the trip.

Gadgets & Accessories
Sunglasses (UV protected): During your trek in Nepal, you’ll climb into high-altitude environments where the sun shines brightly—even in winter. This strong sunlight can also be reflected from the Himalayan snow, and it’s important to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Sunglasses with side shields are especially useful, as they’ll also protect your peripheral vision from these damaging ultraviolet rays. While you can purchase sunglasses at a variety of retailers, we recommend looking for products rated for skiing or mountaineering in order to ensure the best possible quality.
Trekking pole (if needed): While some travelers prefer to hike without the benefit of trekking poles, there’s no denying that a sturdy set of these professional walking sticks will grant you some extra stability as you traverse the steep and sometimes slippery trails of the Himalayas. While it’s possible to purchase your own trekking poles in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or elsewhere in Nepal, many of our returning clients prefer to bring their own pair with them. One thing to remember is that most airlines will not allow you to bring trekking poles as part of your carry-on baggage, so be prepared to stow them when you fly.
Headlamp: Some parts of the trek in Nepal may not be conveniently lit up with electricity so, you’ll need to be able to illuminate your surroundings while you’re unpacking from the day’s hike—or looking for the toilet in the middle of the night. And on some treks in Nepal, we’ll even hit the trail before the day has fully dawned. In these circumstances, it’s important to bring a good flashlight or headlamp so that you can safely find your way.
Toiletry kit: It is recommended to carry a compact toiletry kit containing personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush and toothpaste, lip balm, shaving cream and razor, nail clipper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, shampoo, biodegradable soap, toilet paper, and pads or tampons.
Water bottles: Maintaining proper hydration is vital; thus, it is essential to bring at least two one-liter water bottles to ensure a sufficient water supply.
Power Bank, Camera, and Spare Battery: A power bank and spare battery for your camera are indispensable for capturing moments and ensuring your electronic devices remain charged for capturing beautiful moments and communication.
Compass & Trek Map: Compass is a key navigational tool for trekkers as it aids in unfamiliar territories, ensuring hikers stay on course. Maps, specifically trek maps, offer detailed insights into geographical features, including trails, elevation changes, and points of interest. Together, a compass and maps are invaluable for effective route planning.
Plastic bags: Plastic bags are useful for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings. They can also be used to pack out any trash or waste you generate during the trek. Two to three plastic bags should be enough for these above-mentioned purpose.
Books/Notebook: Keeping a journal and pen would be a good idea if you wanna take the opportunity to reflect on life. You can also carry some books or an e-book of your interest that pass the time and travel.

Prescription Medicine and First Aid:
Don’t forget to carry your day-to-day medications for the entirety of the trek. Additionally, you may bring along some first aid medicines you find necessary at your own discretion. Nevertheless, if you don't have basic medicines, Iconic Himalaya Adventure team also carry an extended first aid kit to assist our travelers.
Below is a list of common medications and supplies you may want to carry for your trip. it’s essential to consult your doctor before acquiring or using any of these items:

  • Antiseptic Towels or Water Syringe: For cleaning wounds.
  • Butterfly Bandages: Suitable for small cuts.
  • Sterile Gauze Pads and Bandages: Include both cotton and elastic varieties for larger wounds.
  • Latex Gloves: To use when dealing with bleeding wounds.
  • Diarrhea Medication: For managing an upset stomach.
  • Cold, Flu, and Fever Medication: To relieve headaches and other discomforts.
  • Pain Relievers: Have some painkillers on hand.
  • ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) Pouches: To prevent dehydration.
  • Quick Pain Relief Spray: For external use to alleviate pain.
  • Personal Medications: Any prescriptions provided by your doctor.
  • Diamox or Similar Medications: For altitude sickness.

Energy bars and Electrolytes
When trekking, particularly at high altitudes, it is essential to increase your intake of carbohydrates for energy. Although we will be stopping at tea houses for lunch at appropriate times, energy bars help give a boost of energy when you're lacking some. Electrolytes also help with hydration and balancing the body's overall sodium level. Both energy bars and electrolytes serve as a convenient option for replenishing energy levels when needed.

Trekking Essentials for Women
In addition to general trekking gear, there are several items that can enhance a woman's comfort and preparedness on the trail.

  • Feminine hygiene products like tampons, pads, menstrual cups, and panty liners
  • Moisturizer, sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF for high-altitude conditions
  • Wet wipes, hand sanitizers, and quick-dry towel
  • Hair comb, hair ties, or headbands
  • Personal Safety Item: multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife, or a whistle
  • Lightweight scarf or wrap for sun protection or warmth

Beyond the provided list of unmissable items for a comfortable trek, feel free to pack other things that align with your vision for the journey. For instance, you might want to bring meditation beads, mini board games, UNO cards, or other recreational items. Just be sure not to forget the essentials we've already mentioned.
When preparing for your trek, smart packing and proper gear preparation is not only necessary for comfort but also for safety reasons. Layering is key, as mountain weather can change rapidly, allowing you to adjust to temperature fluctuations easily. To ensure comfort and a good fit, be sure to break in your shoes and practice carrying a weighted pack before the trip. Carry only what you need and use packing cubes to stay organized, while also choosing clothing that fits well and allows for a full range of movement. It is also necessary to always keep your safety gear easily accessible and remember to tailor your packing list to the specific environment and season of your trek.

Essential Information

Major Attractions of the Gokyo Lakes Trek

When it comes to trekking in Nepal, you’ve got a lot of options. So, how will you know if the Gokyo Lakes Trek is right for you? Consider what you might want to see when you visit Nepal: the mighty Himalayan Mountains, the fascinating culture of the Sherpa people, and the tallest mountain in the world. The Gokyo Lakes Trek will deliver on all of these points, rewarding you with some of the most spectacular sights in the entirety of the Himalayas. When you first set foot in the Everest region, you’ll trek towards the historic trading center of Namche Bazaar before continuing to the high-altitude Gokyo Lakes. From here, you’ll climb to the breathless viewpoint of Gokyo Ri to catch jaw-dropping views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, and other mountain peaks.

How difficult is the Gokyo Lakes Trek?

Most treks in Nepal don’t require any specific mountaineering experience, and the Gokyo Lakes Trek is no exception. You won’t be summiting any mountains on this 100-kilometer trek in the Everest region, and our hiking itinerary is less than two weeks long, making it the perfect choice for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Khumbu without spending weeks and weeks on the trail. But while the Gokyo Lakes Trek is easy to access, this is still a high-altitude trek that climbs to heights of more than 5,000 meters in elevation. You can expect some long and challenging days on the trail, and you’ll want to stick to a reasonable pace to avoid contracting any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness is also known as acute mountain sickness, and it’s caused by ascending into the mountains too quickly. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue—if you experience any of these effects, make sure to tell your guide, who will determine whether you need to descend from high altitudes temporarily. You can also speak with your doctor about bringing some prophylactic medication on your trek to Nepal. And while exercise won’t prevent altitude sickness, regular cardiovascular exercise is still a great way to prepare for the challenge of the high-altitude Gokyo Lakes Trek.

Food and Accommodations on the Gokyo Lakes Trek

During the course of the Gokyo Lakes Trek, you’ll cover approximately 100 kilometers of mountain trails, and all this hard work is sure to make you hungry. Fortunately, there’s lots of great food to discover on this first-rate trek in Nepal. Don’t pass up the opportunity to try some local Nepali fare: steamed or fried dumplings called momos, noodle soup known as thukpa, and a famous rice-and-lentil dish called dal bhat. The talented cooks in the Himalayas of Nepal can also prepare some unexpected delights at high altitude, including tasty pizza and warm apple pie.

Most of the food you’ll find while trekking in Nepal is served at family-owned guesthouses and teahouses in little villages scattered about the length and breadth of the Himalayas. These same guesthouses will also serve as your accommodations during the Gokyo Lakes Trek. You can expect simple, clean rooms and spectacular views right from your doorstep.

Best Time to Embark upon the Gokyo Lakes Trek

When you go trekking in Nepal, you’ll want to consider which season will provide you with the most rewarding travel experience. Spring typically falls between February and May, and this is a popular season to go trekking in the Everest region. You’ll enjoy long days and pleasant weather, although you’ll have to share the trail with some other travelers. If you wait until summer (June through August), you’ll find fewer crowds, but this is monsoon season, and you may also encounter slippery trails and intermittent rainfall that obscures the best Himalayan views.

In many ways, autumn is the best season for the Gokyo Lakes Trek. The months of September and November offer comfortable days and cold nights, along with some of the best Himalayan views all year long. Winter trekking in December or January is also possible, but it does come with a few caveats: the extremes of winter weather may impact the high-altitude trails of the Everest region. However, winter also brings clear skies and uncrowded trails—just be prepared for cold temperatures and make sure you’re adequately equipped to handle snow-covered mountain paths.

Conclusion

If you want to explore the frozen heart of the Himalayas, there’s nothing better than trekking in the Everest region. From the mountain town of Lukla to the frozen heights of Gokyo Ri, the Khumbu represents the ultimate destination for high-altitude thrill seekers, as well as curious travelers who want to learn more about the fascinating culture of the Sherpa people. For our money, there are few itineraries that capture this spirit of exploration better than the Gokyo Lakes Trek. Are you ready to answer the call to adventure? Reach out to Iconic Himalaya Adventure today to start planning your own unforgettable trek in Nepal.

Gokyo Lakes Trek FAQs

Yes! At Iconic Himalaya Adventure, all of our trekking itineraries are developed hand-in-hand with our clients. Maybe you’d like to hike beyond the Gokyo Lakes, ascending to the high-altitude mountain pass of Cho La—or maybe you’d like to combine the Gokyo Lakes Trek with a stop at the world-famous Everest Base Camp. We’ll chat with you about what you’d like to see when you visit Nepal, working cooperatively to craft a bespoke trekking experience that exceeds your wildest imagination.

We can accommodate a variety of dietary requirements concerning both health and lifestyle choices. Vegetarian food is plentiful and delicious in Nepal—and it’s widely available amongst the Hindu and Buddhist communities of the high Himalaya. Likewise, we can accommodate vegan diets and many allergies with a little planning. Gluten-free meals can also generally be arranged, although there is some risk of cross-contamination when your meals are cooked in local teahouses. Reach out to us today with any questions!

With friendly locals and a robust tourist infrastructure, Nepal is one of the safest trekking destinations in the world. Exercise normal precautions while in Kathmandu and other urban environments, and listen to your guide’s advice when it comes to the steep mountain trails of the Gokyo Lakes Trek—you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

Tap water is not generally safe for foreign visitors, and we strongly recommend that you stick to bottled water in restaurants and boiled water in the mountains. You might also consider purchasing chlorine or iodine tablets to treat your own bottled water and reduce unnecessary plastic waste. Make sure to drink plenty of water during your long days on the trail!

The first thing to know about altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness, is that it can affect anyone. Symptoms generally appear at elevations of 2,500 meters or more, and they include headaches, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and vomiting. Talk to your doctor about considering preventative medicine which you can take during your trek, such as acetazolamide. But there’s only one cure for altitude sickness: descending from the mountains. For this reason, it’s important to keep your trekking guide informed if you experience any symptoms.

You can expect some challenging, sweaty days when you’re trekking in the Everest Region—even when the weather turns cold. If you’re wondering about shower facilities, you’ll be able to shower at your guesthouses on some nights of the trek. Shower facilities may involve either running water or a bucket of heated water, and they may cost a few Nepali rupees to access. As for toilet facilities, most toilets in the mountains are Asian-style squat toilets, which are comprised of a porcelain fixture set into the floor. Remember to pack your own toilet paper!

Speak to an Expert+977 9851130654

Leave us your contact details by whatsApp, we will contact you and tailor the package to meet your expectations.

Need Help? Call Us+977 9851130654