Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek

Trip Introduction

With its enticing side glens, a string of turquoise lakes, Nepal's biggest glacier and an arc of snow mountains, the Gokyo valley is the most attractive in the Khumbu Region. Our Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek is an alternative to classical treks in Khumbu that has been specially designed for travelers who are eager to experience the magnificence of the Everest range, while avoiding too much mental and physical stress. The view from Gokyo is exceptionally beautiful and offers more of the legendary mountain than the views from Kalapattar.

The trail of this trek follows the Everest Base camp route up to Sanasa, and then the follows Dudh Koshi River to its source, Ngozumpa Glacier. After a brief sightseeing in Kathmandu, we fly to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), from where we will proceed to Phakding. The next and more scenic day will be spent trekking up to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft). The subsequent days we will pass through Phortse Village and Machhermo where the mountains are more spectacular. Passing through these villages, we also get a chance to have a look at the lifestyles of high altitude dwellers. We reach Gokyo enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Ngozumba Glacier, the largest of its kind in the Nepal Himalayas. 

The small herding settlement of Gokyo (4,750m/15,584ft) lies on the banks of the third lake in a series of small turquoise mountain lakes. On ridge above Gokyo the four peaks above 8,000m (26,246ft), Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu, expose themselves. If that is not enough have a look at the tremendous ice ridge between Cho Oyu and Gyachung (7,922m/25,991ft), considered one of the most dramatic panoramas in the Khumbu region. There are many options for additional exploration and high-altitude walking, including the crossing of Cho La, a 5,420m (17,782ft)-high pass into Khumbu and a hike to Gokyo Ri (5357m/19,216ft). The descent is made through Dole to Lukla to resume a fly back to Kathmandu.

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu [1300 m/4264 ft]

Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Friendship World Treks who will drop us off at our hotel. After checking in, we take a rest or visit Friendship World Treks office. We may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Friendship World Treksat The Ship Restaurant Bar & Lounge. For dinner, you will be served excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the Nepalese food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu.  Included meals:D

Day 02: Kathmandu [1300 m/4264 ft]: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and Buddhists shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the large Stupas in the world. At the noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Friendship World Treksbriefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight at Kathmandu.  Included meals:B

Day 03: Kathmandu - Lukla [2,800 m/9,184 ft] - Phakding (2,652 m/8,700 ft): 3 - 4 hrs

After breakfast, we will be escorted to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), a gateway destination from where our trek begins. After an adventurous 40 minute flight above the breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. This is one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating in a dramatic landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountains peaks. Upon arrival at Lukla, we meet our other crew members and after some packing and arrangements, we start our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To assist in acclimatization, we only have a short hike today. However, if interested in additional activities we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight at Phakding. Included meals:BLD

Day 04: Phakding - Namche Bazaar [3,440 m/11,283 ft]: 5 - 6 hrs

Upon breakfast, we start our pleasant trek. The walk today will be delightful with few short uphill and downhill with multiple crossings over Dudh Koshi River and magnificent view of Mt. Thamserku (6,608m/21,675ft) from the Benkar village. We cross more bridges and reach entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, where our trekking permits are checked in order to keep record of trekkers. A descend and a gradual walk brings us to Jorsale, the last village until Namche Bazaar. The walk is enjoyable through the river bed and we reach Hillary Suspension Bridge. As we climb up towards Namche Bazzar, magnificent sight of Kwangde Peak, Kusum peak, Kangaru peak, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Tawache, and many other fabulous mountains greet us. We break at the Chautara to admire the view. Finally, we reach the colorful village of Namche Bazzar, the main gateway of Khumbu region. Overnight in Namche Bazzar. Included meals:BLD

Day 05: Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization Day

This is the first of the two days set aside for "acclimatization". Health experts recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day's hike to Thame or visiting Khunde or relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and a colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday. If we trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region. We also take an interesting side trip up to Khumjung and also climb up to famous airstrip at Syangboche. Just above the airstrip is the Everest View Hotel, a Japanese scheme to build a deluxe hotel with great views of the highest mountains on Earth. The Khumjung valley is surrounded by the snowy peaks of Kongde and Thamserku and the scared peak Khumbila, hosts a well known monastery that houses a yeti scalp. We also pay our visit to Hillary School which is located at the same site. After having lunch and spending some time in Khumjung, we walk back down to Namche Bazzar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.  Included meals:BLD

Day 06: Namche Bazzar - Phorse Village-[3810 m/ 12,496 ft]: 5 - 6 hrs

After breakfast in Namche, we start our trek enjoying superb view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and close up view of Thamserku. Our trek follows on the gradual trail with few ups and downs overlooking magnificent view of the great Himalaya. Along the way, we can spot wild lives like pheasant, musk deer, or a herd of Himalayan Thar. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma. The path eventually reaches Sansa which is the major trail junction to Gokyo valley and Everest Base Camp. We trek gradual goes up through Mongla pass (3975 m) from where we glimpse Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Tawoche and Mt. Khumbila. Sherpas regard Mt. Khumbila as sacred mountain of the patron god of the Khumbu area. Descending to Dudhkosi Khola (3250 m), we cross a bridge and again trek up through the rhododendron forest, a host for Himalayan wild deer and musk deer. Finally, we arrive to the walled fields of Phorse. Phorse is just under the snow dusted peaks of Tawoche and Cholaste. From here, a short trek leads to Phorse village where we rest overnight. 

Included meals:BLD

Day 07: Phorse Village - Machhermo-[4,470 m/ 14,663 ft]: 5 - 6 hrs

We return back the last day's trail up to Phorse. Upon crossing the bridge on the Dudh Koshi rive, we spot wild lives like pheasants, mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer. Through forests, some waterfalls and bridges, we reach Dole; a small place with few teahouses. Further, we climb steadily up through a scenic ridge above Dole and the trail climbs via Lhabarma. Offering us good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku the trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza (4360 m). While ascending from Luza, we will be at the Dudh Koshi valley. Walking along the hill side above thundering Dudkoshi, passing through some small hamlets and through sandy spurs, we reach Machhermo. Machhermo is the last major settlement on the way up to Gokyo. The beautiful stream flowing down from the Kyajo Ri and Phari Lapche mountains runs through the middle of village before draining into the Dudh Koshi. It is the place where Khumbu people got first sighting of Yeti in 1974. We visit the Himalayan Rescue Hospital for a lecture regarding the altitude sickness, its precaution, and primary treatment. Overnight in Machhermo. Included meals:BLD

Day 08: Machharmo - Gokyo [4800 m/15,744 ft]: 5 - 6 hours

Today, we climb through a ridge Chorten from where we can see fabulous view of both down the valley and of the Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8153m). Beyond the ridge the valley widens as the trail passes through a Chorten and reaches Pangka (4480m) after some gentle walk. Phangka is the palace where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people. We descend to the river bank before beginning to climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier. It is a steep climb on the moraine. Upon crossing an iron bridge over an stream, the trial levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4690m. At this juncture, we get chance to observe the Lama footprints on a stone. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho we become mesmerized by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two linked by a surging stream. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an amazing spectacular sight here. After lunch, we explore around the third Lakes, Dudh Pokhari. We spend night in a teahouse with comfortable bedrooms. Overnight at Gokyo. Included meals:BLD

Day 09: Gokyo Valley: Climb Gokyo Ri [5357 m/17,570 ft] and hike to fifth lakes: 5 - 6 hrs

Today is an acclimatization day but we know we should not stay idle. If the weather is good, we grasp the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri today instead of next day to enjoy the scene from the best viewpoint of Everest Region. Or, as we know Gokyo is not only popular for its grand view but also for the six lakes which it hosts. Definitely we would not miss the chance to observe the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho) and fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). About 3 km north of Gokyo is the fourth lake with its high cliffs and peaks rising above it. The trail continues to fifth lake. If interested, we climb on a hill at the edge of the Lakes to get astounding views of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makulu. We can see a lot more from here - the spot is called Scoundrel's Viewpoint. Beyond the fifth Lakes is the Cho Oyu Base Camp. Northern part of the fifth lake provides fabulous views of Cho-Oyu Base Camp and biggest glacier of the world- the Ngazumpa glacier. Moved by the charm, we may even try to go sixth lake too but depends upon our own interest and time. Back to Gokyo village. Overnight at Gokyo. Included meals:BLD

Day 10: Gokyo to Dole: 3 - 4 hrs

The way back from Gokyo is an easy downhill walk along the Dudh Koshi River that emerges out of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Passing by the second and then the first Gokyo Lakes, we come to a small gushing stream over an iron bridge. We see the hamlet of Phangka ahead. Cholatse and Taboche peaks rear up on the right of us. The trail descends below Phangka, and across a level terrace on the slope to climb a rib on the far side of the hill side. Upon reaching the Chorten at the edge, we see great views of Thamserku , Cho Oyu, and Kangtega. We slowly walk down to sprawling village of Machhermo. Again, through the charming hamlet of Luza and Lhafarma we reach Dole. Overnight at Dole. Included meals:BLD

Day 11: Dole - Namche: 4 - 5 hrs

Taking last inspection back to Cho Oyu range, we start steep descent to Phortse Tenga. Our hike today is mostly down hills. The most outstanding feature of the trail is the abundance of plant and animal vegetation including wildflowers and Rhododendrons. We might spot faunas like mountain goats, musk deers, pheasants, etc. Waterfalls are also today`s attraction. Upon reaching MongLa, we woll be greeted by a very wonderfully located lovely place perched on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. We take revised look at Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and a distant view of Tengboche. After a bit of long distance walk, we reach an intersection where the steep path up from Sanasa meets our trail. Now, trail to Namche clings to the steep wooded slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends. Upon coming to Namche army camp hill, we look back to see Lhotse, the tip of Everest and Tengboche for one last time. About a kilometer from here is Namche. We take hot shower and let rest our tired muscles at a comfortable lodge in Namche. Included meals:BLD

Day 12: Namche Bazaar - Lukla: 6 - 8 hrs

The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk slowly as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail becomes more level and natural. By today, we start to get warmed up by the light breeze. Any remaining sore throats and colds will be gone by today as we pass through this charming mountain air. Although we are travelling the same route down, we feel completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We walk through the Sherpa villages' noticing impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag. On arrival in Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of weeks. We experience the culmination of a fantastic trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with smile! Overnight in Lukla. Included meals:BLD

Day 13: Fly back to Kathmandu

We fly back to Kathmandu after a long mountain journey. The early morning flight drops us in Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner at The Ship Restaurant Bar & Lounge where we can pick our meal from their carefully crafted menu that offer a wide range of choices. Overnight in Kathmandu. Included meals:BD

Day 14: Farewell Friend

The journey within the mountains of Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but we just trade emails to travel companions and organize our photos. If we have more time we can do some shopping or sightseeing. At last approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, a representative from Friendship World Treks escorts us to the airport. On our way to home we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure trip in the wonderful country of Nepal. Included meals:B

Important Note : 

Your safety is of paramount concern while traveling with Friendship World Treks. Please note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather conditions, health conditions of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.