Gokyo Lakes
Six emerald glacial lakes at 4,700–5,000m. Gokyo Ri sunrise view rivals Kala Patthar.
Overview
The Gokyo Lakes trek is the quieter, arguably more scenic alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route. It climbs through the Khumbu to a string of shimmering turquoise glacial lakes at around 4,700–5,000 m, culminating in the dawn climb of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) — a viewpoint many rate above Kala Patthar for its sweep of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu.
It follows the Everest trail to Namche before branching up the Dudh Koshi valley to Gokyo, crossing the Ngozumpa, Nepal’s largest glacier. It can be done on its own or linked with EBC over the Cho La pass for a bigger loop.
Highlights
- ▸Sunrise from Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) — four 8,000 m peaks at once
- ▸The turquoise Gokyo Lakes at ~4,800 m
- ▸The vast Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest
- ▸Far fewer crowds than the main EBC trail
- ▸Option to link with EBC via the Cho La pass
What's included — from $1,450
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- ✓All teahouse / lodge accommodation on the trail
- ✓Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while trekking
- ✓All trekking permits and conservation-area fees
- ✓Ground transport between the city and the trailhead
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and official paperwork
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal
- ✕Nepal entry visa fee
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking gear and clothing
- ✕Meals and accommodation in cities / on rest days
- ✕Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging and bottled water on the trail
- ✕Tips for your guide and porter
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed as included
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Gokyo Lakes trek cost in 2026?
A guided Gokyo Lakes trek typically costs USD 1,200–1,500 per person including guide, porter, lodging, trail meals and permits. The round-trip Lukla flight is the main variable and is sometimes quoted separately.
How hard is the Gokyo Lakes trek?
It is graded Strenuous — non-technical but high, reaching 5,357 m at Gokyo Ri. Proper acclimatisation at Namche and Dole/Machhermo is essential. Adding the Cho La pass makes it harder.
How many days is the Gokyo Lakes trek?
A standard Gokyo itinerary is 11–13 days round trip from Lukla. Linking Gokyo with EBC over Cho La takes around 16–18 days.
What permits do I need for Gokyo?
The Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit, plus a licensed guide. Lekaly bundles the correct permits.
Is Gokyo better than Everest Base Camp?
Many trekkers find Gokyo more scenic and far less crowded, with arguably a better Everest view from Gokyo Ri. EBC has the iconic “stand at base camp” appeal. Doing both via Cho La gives you everything.
Related treks
Plan Gokyo Lakes with Lekaly
Get this itinerary, offline maps, verified teahouse contacts and permit help in the Lekaly app — or request a quote from vetted local agencies.