Gokyo Lakes Trek

Your Gokyo Lakes Trek to the heart of the Khumbu region commenced with a thrilling early morning flight to Lukla. This small mountain town is generally referred to as the ‘Gateway of Everest’. Soaring past the rolling hills, deep valleys and enjoying the epic aerial mountain scenery, you will make your touchdown at Tenzing Hillary Airport.

You will meet your porters at Lukla and take a short break to stroll around and take in the Himalayan atmosphere. After that, you will begin walking on the world-renowned mainstream Everest Base Camp trek route. 

The trail from Lukla stretches across pine-scented and coniferous forest to Chheplung Village. Then, the snow-fed Dudh Koshi River starts to appear below. It will be your companion for most of your trek. You will continue walking on the bank of the river and pass Thado Koshi. 

After crossing the suspension bridge ahead of the village, you will then head toward Ghat Village. The path in this stretch is decorated with mani walls and vibrant prayer flags, which creates a spiritual and peaceful atmosphere. 

The final stretch on this day’s trek is across the patches of rhododendron and magnolia forest to reach Phakding Village. This beautiful Sherpa village is nestled on the banks of Dudh Koshi River and is a popular first-night stop heading toward Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes.

Phakding is well-equipped with teahouses, bakeries and riverside lodges that offer warm meals and warm rest. You will rest here tonight, settling in with the murmuring sound of Dudh Koshi in the background. 

Flight Re-Routing

The journey to the heart of the Himalayas begins early in the morning with a scenic flight to Lukla. The original plan is to fly directly from the domestic terminal to TIA to Tenzing Hillary Airport. If you fly on this route, it takes around 35 minutes to reach your destination from Kathmandu. 

However, during the peak season months (September, October, November, March, April and May), due to increasing air traffic congestion, flights are sometimes routed. The re-routed flights operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, 4 to 5 hours eastward of Kathmandu.

If your flight is rerouted via Ramechhap, you will need to leave Kathmandu as early as 2:00 to 3:00 AM in a private vehicle or tourist shuttle to catch the morning flight. The flight on the Ramchhap to Lukla route usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. 

For those who want to skip the bother of waking up in the middle of the night to catch the morning flight, you can travel to Ramechhap a night early. Remember, the decision on the flight reroute is not made by individual trekking agencies or airlines; it is managed and enforced by the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN). 

Helicopter Flight 

If you are looking for a safer, more reliable and time-saving alternative for a flight reroute to Manthali Airport, Eco Holidays Nepal offers private and group-shared helicopter transfer directly from Kathmandu to Lukla. 

With this option, you can skip the traditional flights that are frequently rerouted from Ramechhap, requiring a long and pre-dawn drive from Kathmandu. Helicopter flight allows you to fly directly from Kathmandu’s domestic terminal, bypassing the stress, crowds and uncertainty altogether. 

The helicopters are also more adaptable to mountain weather and can fly even in lower visibility and efficiently navigate the dynamic terrain that fixed-wing planes cannot. This can also be especially beneficial if you have scheduled your trek for the off-season period, where the weather is not generally predictable.

Taking the helicopter flight on the Kathmandu to Lukla route costs approximately US$ 500 per person. However, as we will refund the cost of the fixed-wing flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (approx US$ 200), you will just need to add an additional US$ 300 to take this helicopter flight. 

But note that this price range is generally applicable for peak trekking periods only (autumn and spring). During the peak trekking months, it is easier to find a passenger, so the cost is slightly cheaper. In case of off seasons (monsoon and winter), when the number of trekkers is significantly low, the cost for the helicopter flight will depend on the available number of passengers to join the flight.

You can also take a private charter option, which will cost around US$ 2,500 to US$ 3,000. In a private helicopter flight, you can fly on your own terms and with your own schedule. 

After a restful night in Phakding, you will continue walking north alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Moving across the pine-scented, lush woodlands, you will cross a few small streams before arriving at the first village on the trail, Tok Tok. 

The scenery begins to gradually open from here onwards. The unveiling of dramatic cliffs and distant glimpses of Thamserku will keep you motivated on the route. Then, you will arrive at Benkar Village, a beautiful, surreal settlement that is surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.

Continuing further ahead, you will traverse occasional uphills and long suspension bridges to arrive at Monjo Village. This village is the major entry point into the Sagarmatha National Park, where you will have to show your permits to enter.

From Monjo, the path descends toward Jorsalle Village, which is the last settlement before Namche. During the second day’s adventure in the Gokyo Lake Trek Nepal, lunch is typically eaten here. After lunch, you will follow the trail that runs along the riverbed and then ascend sharply.

This segment is known as Namche Bazaar and where the real climb to the Sherpa capital begins. You will then cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, hanging high above the cascading river. The path further ahead through dense pine and rhododendron forest follows a zigzag climb.

On a clear day, you will be rewarded with the first clear views of Mount Everest from a high viewpoint before Namche. Finally, the trail flattens as you round the hillside to reach Namche Bazaar. This is the largest Sherpa town in the region, beautifully tucked into a natural amphitheater.

Namche is a vibrant Himalayan town bustling and full of life. You will find bakeries, cafes, pubs, and trekking shops here. The remaining afternoon is for rest and acclimatization and maybe coffee and a slice of cake while soaking in the magical Himalayan ambiance. 

This day of your Gokyo Lakes Trek Nepal itinerary is for acclimatization. As you have crossed 3,000 meters in altitude, your body needs to adjust to the thinning air. However, your acclimatization in Namche Bazaar doesn’t mean that you will stay idle.

Instead, it is an opportunity to explore, ascend gently and deepen your understanding of this high-altitude Himalayan world. In the morning, you will ascend the path of mixed stone staircases and open ridgelines, enjoying the sweeping views of the valley below.

After a while, you will cross the Syangboche Airstrip, a small and often wind-blasted airstrip perched on the edge of the mountain. From here, the trail continues across alpine scrub to the legendary Everest View Hotel. This is one of the highest luxury hotels in the world. 

Everest View Hotel was built with the single goal of providing the best possible panoramic views of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks. And, it certainly delivers on that part. On a clear day, you can enjoy the jaw-dropping vistas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kangtenga from the balcony.

On your return hike, instead of descending directly to Namche, you can extend your visit to Khumjung and Khunde Villages. Khumbu is one of the largest Sherpa villages in the region. Don’t miss a visit to Khumjung Monastery, which is believed to house a yeti scalp.

You can also visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center and Khumjung Edmund Hillary School on your way down. Back in Namche Bazaar, the rest of the afternoon is yours. Take your time to explore the Himalayan culture and lifestyle, or enjoy modern and premium amenities.

Namche Bazaar has restaurants, cafes, hot showers, Wi-Fi and electricity, the luxuries that will soon be rare. This is your last real connection to modern civilization before the trail takes you higher into the wild. 

Leaving Namche Bazaar after a warm breakfast, you will follow a moderate ascent as you contour on the mountainside high above the Dudh Koshi River. The trail is wide and open, which unveils the sweeping vistas of the snow-covered peak.

After about an hour of trek, you will arrive at Kyangjuma Village. This is a picturesque settlement with colorful teahouses, prayer flags and a stupa. From here, the trail splits into two parts. The right one is the classic Everest Base Camp route across Tengboche.

But you will take the left one toward Gokyo Valley, which will mark the beginning of a quieter and more serene journey away from the mainstream route. The trail slowly climbs to Mong La, high ride that rewards trekkers with panoramic views of snow-clad peaks and valley below.

From Mong La, the path descends steeply across forested gorge. As you walk past tall birch, juniper and rhododendron trees, the trail dips down to the riverside hamlet of Phortse Tenga. This beautiful village sits beside Dudh Koshi River, surrounded by mossy boulders and pine trees.

Phortse is a cold and shaded place, making it a perfect resting destination before the next ascent. For the second phase of this day’s trek, you will follow a steep climb through dense rhododendron forests. The landscape becomes increasingly alpine as you ascend higher.

The trees start to disappear and the hardy shrubs and scrub alpine dominate the terrain. After, few hours of walking, you finally arrive at Dole Village. This is a tranquil high Himalayan village that is scattered across the gentle slope overlooking the valley. 

Dole is a quiet and remote village that is surrounded by yak pastures and has a handful of lodges. The air here feels crisp, this is a perfect altitude for acclimatization before you climb any higher.

The trek on the fifth day of Gokyo Trek Nepal itinerary may be short, but it is majestic in scenery. After leaving Dole Village, you will immediately notice the change in the landscape. The thick and lush greenery disappears and opens way for the wide-open alpine slopes, glaciers, moraines and scattered boulders.

The path continues to climb gently but rises steadily high above the river valley. Following the trail that clings to the western flank of Dudh Koshi Gorge, you will reach the seasonal grazing village of Lhabarma. This village has a handful of stone huts and is often closed outside the summer months.

From here onwards, the views of majestic peaks open up even wider. On the left side, Mount Cho Oyu dominates the northern skyline. Enjoying the enchanting views, you will continue walking along the ridgeline and arrive at Luza Village. 

It is another high-altitude village that has a cluster of stone houses and lodges. The trail narrows from here and cuts the hillside with drop-offs. Along the way, you may notice occasional Himalayan tahr grazing across the impossible cliff ledges. If you are lucky, you may also witness pheasants and musk deer.

Finally, you will arrive at Machhermo Village. It is situated in a dramatic location at the mouth of a wide glacial valley. This village has compact housing, but the lodges here are well-built and friendly. You will also find the Himalayan Rescue Association Aid Post in Machhermo, where altitude sessions are offered daily during the peak trekking season.

It is a big day of your Gokyo Lake Trekking Nepal that you have been eagerly waiting for. You will start your morning climb out of Machhermo following the rocky slope scattered with shrines and cairns, rising over the village.

The surrounding peaks begin to close in as you ascend higher. Then, it appears, the first tantalizing glimpse of Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, that is spread across 36 km (22 miles). After about an hour of walking, you will arrive at Pangka. 

From here, the trail drops slightly into a small basin before winding up again via a series of stone steps carved into the hillside. The next section up ahead on the trail is a true highlight; you will reach the first one among the series of Gokyo Lakes, Longpongo.

Then, just a little ahead lies the second lake, Taujung Tsho, the second lake surrounded by moraine ridges and rocky bluffs. Finally, a gentle rise along the route will take you to Gokyo Village, which is beautifully perched on the shore of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. 

Gokyo Village has a handful of blue-roofed lodges beneath the looming shadow of Gokyo Ri. From your resting destination, you can witness the jagged icefall of Ngozumpa spilling down from Cho Oyu. Resting amidst the serene lakes, there is a sense of stillness, as if time itself pauses to honor the mountains.

Today, you have reached one of the most surreal and sacred sites in the entire Everest region. This holy site is of great significance to both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims from all around the world flock to this sacred lake, especially during the occasion of Janai Purnima. 

This day on your Gokyo Lake Trek marks the spiritual and visual high point of your Himalayan adventure. Before the sun paints the sky with its hue, you will rise above Gokyo Lakes, wrapping yourself in layers to deal with the alpine chill.

The trail to Gokyo Ri begins just behind the Gokyo Village. Following the snaking trail upward is relentless but undoubtedly very rewarding. After nearly 600 meters on the rocky trail, you will step onto Gokyo Ri, where the world becomes surreal.

As the first ray of sunlight touches the horizon, the summit of Gokyo Ri unveils such an epic panorama that only a few places on earth can truly match. From the top of this viewpoint, you will be able to catch the breathtaking vistas of four 8,000-meter giants dominating the skyline: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. 

Below, Ngozumpa Glacier stretches deep into the valley and Dudh Pokhari shimmers like a mirror. You will spend your time at the summit, soaking in the majestic Himalayan atmosphere and clicking photographs. Then, you will descend to Gokyo Village for breakfast.

For the remaining part of the day, you can explore this breathtaking sacred valley. Adventurous trekkers often head northward to the fourth lake, Thonak Tsho and the fifth lake, Ngozumpa Tsho. These final lakes in the series are situated at a higher elevation and offer a closer look at the upper glacier.

Then, you can return to the village and just relish the sacred atmosphere. Sip warm tea and just stare out over the tranquil surface of sacred lakes that reflect Himalayan grandeur. This day is not just about movement, but also about being present. You have earned the stillness and awe. 

Return Heli Flight Option from Gokyo Lakes

For trekkers who are seeking a quicker and more comfortable return after reaching and exploring the sacred Gokyo Lake, we offer an optional helicopter flight to Kathmandu. You will complete your hike to Gokyo Ri and explore the fourth and fifth lakes. 

Then, after breakfast, you will take a dramatic aerial exit soaring high above the glaciers, deep valleys and sky-touching peaks. This helicopter return is perfect for the trekkers who have experienced altitude fatigue and want an easier descent.

With this upgrade, you will also be able to avoid the physical strain of the return leg after completing a full ascent to Gokyo Lakes. For this return flight as well, Eco Holidays Nepal can arrange both shared and private helicopter options.

The cost for a group-shared helicopter flight from Gokyo Lake to Kathmandu is around US$ 1,350 to US$ 1,400 per person. However, this price range is for the major trek seasons only (spring and autumn). It is easier to get passengers to share flights during the high seasons.

However, during the low trekking periods (monsoon and winter), the cost for the return helicopter flight will depend on the number of passengers. In some cases, when there aren’t enough trekkers, you may have to take a private charter flight, which will cost US$ 4,500 to US$ 5,200.

After enjoying a warm breakfast, you will bid farewell to the sacred Gokyo Valley. From here, you will retrace your steps along the Ngozumpa Glacier’s lateral moraine. You will walk past the smaller lakes of series, each one with its own unique beauty and shimmering under the shifting morning light.

The descent from Gokyo is gentle but steady. As you trek down to lower altitudes, your breath becomes deeper and greenery starts to gradually reappear. Soon, you will arrive at Pangka and after a brief rest here, your journey continues downhill along the rocky outcrops and highland shrubs.

You will then enter the familiar high-altitude hamlet of Machhermo from where Cho Oyu dominates the horizon. Beyond the Machhermo Village, the trail drops gently across the yak pasture settlements of Luza and Lhabarma. In the warmer season, these settlements are surrounded by grazing yaks.

Finally, you arrive at Dole Village, which is set against the surreal backdrop of ridges and wind-swept hills in a peaceful atmosphere. Today, you will unwind at this alpine setting surrounded by mountains, the howling of high winds and the occasional tinkling of yak bells. 

Today’s trekking route continues to drop through the Khumbu’s majestic midlands terrain. After eating your breakfast at Dole, you will begin your gradual descent across the alpine grassland before it enters forest with dwarf rhododendrons and birch trees. 

Then, you will arrive at Phortse Tenga, where you can pause beside the cascading Dudh Koshi River. For the next part you will follow a steep and scenic climb to Mong La. From the pass, the trail drops sharply across the pine tree-covered hillsides to Kyangjuma Village.

You will join the classic Everest Base Camp Trek route while moving further from Kyangjuma. Now, you enter the bustling intersection with cozy lodges, colorful praying flags and praying wheels where Ama Dablam dominates the horizon. 

For the final stretch, the path winds along the mountain balcony, which is often shared with long yak caravans. Finally, the trail wraps around the hills until entering the amphitheater-shaped town of Namche Bazaar.

The atmosphere here feels vibrant and alive as ever. After a few days on the remote part of the Gokyo Valley above the clouds, this day’s return trek feels luxurious. The warm beds, hot showers, Wi-Fi, bakeries and restaurants are once again within reach. Tonight is for enjoying what modernity has to offer and getting that well-earned rest.

Your final day of trekking in the Gokyo Lakes Trek Nepal itinerary begins with a long and careful descent to Dudh Koshi River Valley. As you drop to a lower trail, the forest starts to thicken. You will then retrace your steps across the Jorsale, Monjo and Benkar villages.

The green returns in full bloom by this stretch; the sight of scented pine forests, blooming rhododendrons and waterfalls tumbling off the cliffs welcomes you back. After exiting Sagarmatha National Park, you will cross Tok Tok and Chheplung again. 

Moving above the riverbank, the trail then gently ascends to Lukla, the town where your trek first began. From Namche, you will arrive at Lukla by afternoon. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful Sherpa town, shopping for souvenirs, or relishing the traditional Himalayan delicacies with your guides and fellow trekkers.

Unlike the starting day here, tonight Lukla carries a special and different energy. It is time for closure, interesting stories and rewinding the heartfelt memories. You will fall asleep on the lap of the Himalayas one last time, not as a visitor but as someone who now carries a piece of the mountains within.

This day’s adventure begins early, often before sunrise. Saying farewell to the mountains, you will head toward Tenzing Hillary for a flight back to Kathmandu. Soaring over the deep valleys, rolling ridgelines and admiring the stunning aerial views of the mountain peaks, you will land at the bustling capital.

After days of silence and thin air on the mountains, the busy city life greets you with color, noise and life. We will swiftly transfer you back to your hotel, and how you spend the rest of the day is entirely up to you. 

Some travelers prefer a slow resting day with a warm shower, a clean bed and coffee in Thamel, watching the world go by. While others who feel more active than ever, go on with sightseeing tour around the valley for a panoramic farewell.