Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek

After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you'll be welcomed by a representative from Himalayan Dream Team who will escort us to your hotel. Upon arrival at the hotel, you’ll check in, freshen up, and have some time to rest. In the evening, Himalayan Dream Team will host a welcome dinner for us. We will spend the night in Kathmandu

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Our first stop is the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu. This sacred site is a beautiful symbol of faith for both Buddhists and Hindus.
• Pashupatinath Temple: Next, we visit Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and cremation site. Here, you can witness and photograph traditional Hindu rituals along the Bagmati River, immersing yourself in the local spiritual life.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: After a delicious lunch, we head to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic site showcasing stunning Newari architecture. Enjoy a photo session with locals in traditional attire or Hindu holy men (Sadhus), perfect for capturing unique and memorable portraits.
• Vegetable and Spice Markets: End the day with a visit to the bustling vegetable and spice markets. Capture dynamic street photography of vibrant colors, energetic atmosphere, and diverse faces, providing a glimpse into everyday life in Kathmandu.

Your adventure officially begins! Depending on the season, we either fly directly from Kathmandu or drive to Ramechhap for a short Lukla flight. The journey offers mesmerizing views of verdant hills, terraced fields, and the snow-capped Himalayan skyline. Upon landing in Lukla, we meet the trekking team, enjoy a brief rest, and set off on our trek to Phakding. The trail meanders through Cheplung village, offering a glimpse of the revered Mt. Khumbila, untouched by climbers.

Duration Overview:

Kathmandu to Lukla Flight: 35 minutes (off-peak months: Jan, Feb, Jun–Sep, Dec).
Manthali to Lukla Flight (Peak Season): 5–6 hrs drive to Manthali, 20 mins flight, 3–4 hrs trek.

Seasonal Flight Details:

Peak Season (Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov): Early morning drive to Manthali (1:30–2:30 AM) for a 20-min Lukla flight.
Non-Peak Season (Jan, Feb, Jun–Sep, Dec): Direct 35-min flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

Helicopter Option:

For a smoother start, book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at $550/person (5-person sharing basis) to skip the long drive to Manthali during peak season.

Trekking Time: Approx. 3–4 hours from Lukla to Phakding.

After breakfast from Phakding the trail continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley, staying 100m above the river on its west bank. The trail leads us to Jorsale (2810m) where we enter the Sagarmatha National Park, and submit our trekking permits for checking. From here we continue on an ever-steepening trail to Namche Bazaar (3440m), known simply as Namche. En route we cross the spectacular suspension bridge high above the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and the Dudh Kosi, and shortly after glimpse our first view of Everest, way off to the north-east. The trail to Namche is steep and long, but eventually we reach the remarkable Sherpa capital perched high on the hillside and dominated to the east by the immense bulk of Kwangde

Since we are fast gaining altitude, this is the first of the two scheduled “acclimatization” days. Health experts always recommend to stay active and moving during the rest days instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day 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 climb a few hundred feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will 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.

After a hearty breakfast in Namche, we begin our trek towards Dole. The trail climbs steadily out of Namche with stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Thamserku, Tawoche, Khumbila, and Everest in the distance.

We descend through forests of rhododendron and birch to reach Kyanjuma village, where we take a short rest. From here, the path continues to Sansa, where we leave the Everest Base Camp route and follow the Gokyo trail above the gorge of the Dudh Koshi River.

A gradual climb brings us to Mong La Pass (3973m), a perfect spot to enjoy magnificent panoramas of the surrounding peaks. From the pass, the trail drops down to the Dudh Koshi Khola before ascending again through alpine forest and green pastures. Along the way, keep an eye out for Himalayan pheasants, musk deer, and Himalayan Tahrs.

The final uphill walk brings us to the small settlement of Dole, beautifully located with wide open views. If the weather is clear, the sunset over the mountains is especially mesmerizing.

After breakfast in Dole, we begin with a short descent on a sometimes slippery section of trail, especially if snow lingers. Soon, the path climbs steadily along an open ridge, offering wide views of the surrounding peaks including Mt. Cho Oyu (8201m), Kangtega, and Thamserku.

As we ascend higher, the landscape becomes increasingly barren, with tundra grasses and scattered juniper shrubs replacing the forests below. Along the way, we pass the small hamlets of Lhafarma and Luza, both perched above the Dudh Koshi River valley. The walk continues with a gentle rise above the river before crossing sandy and rocky sections of trail that gradually lead us into Machhermo, the last major settlement before Gokyo.

Machhermo is an important stopover, not only for its comfort and views but also for its role in acclimatization. Here, we may visit the Himalayan Rescue Hospital, which provides valuable information about high-altitude sickness and safe trekking practices in the Everest region.

We srart the day with a steady climb up a ridge, where the views of Kangtega, Thamserku, and Cho Oyu open up beautifully. The valley widens as we walk through Phangga, a place with a history of a past avalanche, and then descend briefly to the river. From here, the trail climbs steeply onto the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal.

Crossing a small bridge, the path soon levels and brings us to the first Gokyo Lake, Longpongo, where locals believe lama footprints can still be seen on a stone. A little further lies the second lake, Taboche Tsho, shimmering with striking turquoise water. Following the stream, we finally reach the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, beside which sits the village of Gokyo. With the majestic Cho Oyu rising high behind the lake, the scenery is unforgettable.

After settling in at our lodge, we take time to explore the lakeshore and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this high Himalayan setting.

Today is a highlight of the entire trek and also an important day for acclimatization. If the weather is clear, we begin early with the climb to Gokyo Ri (5357m). From the summit, the views are truly breathtaking — Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Gyachung Kang all rise above the horizon, while the turquoise Gokyo Lakes sparkle far below. It is one of the finest panoramas in the Himalayas.

After descending back to the village for breakfast, we continue our exploration by hiking north towards the Fourth Lake (Thonak Tsho), about 3 km from Gokyo. The lake is surrounded by high cliffs and Himalayan peaks, creating a dramatic setting. From there, we proceed further to the Fifth Lake (Ngozumpa Tsho). A short climb to a viewpoint above the lake, known as Scoundrel’s Viewpoint, reveals remarkable vistas of Cho Oyu Base Camp, the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier (the longest glacier in the Himalayas), and a sweeping panorama of surrounding 8000-meter peaks.

In the afternoon, we return to Gokyo village, where the rest of the day is free for rest and enjoying the peaceful high-altitude setting.

We leave Gokyo and begin our descent along the trail by the Dudh Koshi River, passing by the beautiful lakes we had seen earlier. Along the way, we enjoy fine views of Cholatse and Taboche. The path descends for a while, then climbs gently up to a chorten, from where we are rewarded with wide views of Thamserku, Cho Oyu, and Kangtega.

Continuing down, we pass through the villages of Machhermo, Luza, and Lhafarma before finally reaching Dole, where we stop for the night.

Today’s walk is mostly downhill and feels easier compared to the previous days. We descend steeply to Phortse Tenga, passing through beautiful rhododendron and birch forests, where it’s possible to spot wildlife such as mountain goats, musk deer, and Himalayan pheasants.

From Mong La Pass, we enjoy fine views of Khumbila Peak and continue with wide vistas of Ama Dablam, Taboche, Thamserku, and Kangtega. The trail then winds through forested slopes and small villages like Kyangjuma, gradually bringing us closer to Namche.

Before reaching the town, we pass the army camp hill, where we look back for one last view of Lhotse, the summit of Everest, and Tengboche Monastery. Finally, we arrive at the lively Sherpa hub of Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.

On our last day of the trek, we start with a descent from Namche, keeping our balance on the rocky trails. It won't take long before we start crossing suspension bridges, the Dudh Koshi River, and rich tributaries of the river. It's heartening to feel warmer as we depart from the frosty elevations, and start passing through the green, pine-rhododendron relaxed glades and the small Sherpa villages.

Although we follow the same route we took on the way up, the views feel different and refreshing. With the snow-covered peaks in the distance and the lively atmosphere of the villages along the way, it is a pleasant walk back to Lukla.

Upon arrival, we have time to relax, stretch, and reflect on the memorable journey through the Gokyo Valley. This is the last evening with our trekking crew, and we celebrate the completion of a safe and successful trek together.

Fly to Kathmandu (35–45 min)
After breakfast, we will have a flight to Kathmandu from Lukla, enjoying one last look at the mountains from above. Upon arrival, we transfer to the hotel, where you can rest after the long trek.

The rest of the day is free , you may choose to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore more of Kathmandu at your own pace. Your guide will be available to assist with sightseeing suggestions or shopping if desired. In the evening, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city or simply rest at the hotel.

Today is reserved in case of any flight delays or cancellations between Kathmandu -Lukla - Kathmandu. If all flights operate on schedule, this day offers an excellent opportunity for additional sightseeing. We can arrange an optional tour to the historic cities of Bhaktapur and Patan.

Optional Sightseeing Tour:

Bhaktapur: Explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur, renowned for its rich culture, temples, and intricate wood, metal, and stone artworks. Highlights include Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and the Pottery Square.

Patan: Visit the historic city of Patan, also known as Lalitpur, famous for its architectural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Key attractions include Patan Durbar Square, the Krishna Mandir, and the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar).

This optional tour provides a deeper insight into the cultural and historical richness of the Kathmandu Valley, making your trek experience even more memorable.

On your final day after completing the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek with the Himalayan Dream Team, it's time to bid farewell. With hearts filled with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of Nepal's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, our dedicated representative will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to the international airport.

As you board your flight, take a moment to reflect on the enriching experiences and knowledge gained during your trek. We hope to welcome you back for more adventures with the Himalayan Dream Team. Safe travels and best wishes for your future endeavors!