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TREKKING

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Gokyo Valley Trek

 

 
The Gokyo Lake Trek is a breathtaking alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, offering peace, stunning alpine lakes, and Himalayan culture without the crowds. Located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, this trek takes you to the world’s highest freshwater lake system, the Gokyo Lakes, nestled at altitudes between 4,700m to 5,000m.
 
What Makes Gokyo Lake Trek Special?
 Explore Gokyo Valley (4,750m) – a scenic haven surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
 
 Visit Five Sacred Gokyo Lakes – including Dudh Pokhari, Thonak Cho, and Ngozumpa Tsho, known for their turquoise waters and spiritual significance.
 
 Sherpa Culture & Spiritual Sites – experience authentic mountain villages like Namche Bazaar, Phortse Thanga, and Machhermo.
 
 Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – enjoy a panoramic sunrise view of four 8,000m+ peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
 
 Best Everest Viewpoint – enjoy a clear view of Mount Everest from the fifth lake, better than from Everest Base Camp.
 
 Peaceful Trails – less crowded, perfect for those seeking a quiet Himalayan escape.

Arrival day in Kathmandu

 Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ft

 
Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Your adventure begins the moment you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. A friendly representative from Access Nepal will greet you at the arrival gate with a warm smile and a personalized signboard for a hassle-free meet-up.
 
From there, you'll be transferred to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle, where you can unwind and settle in after your journey. Take this time to rest and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, Kathmandu's lively tourist hub filled with trekking shops, cafés, and cultural sights.
 
In the evening, join us for a pre-trek briefing where you'll meet your guide, get your trekking permits organized, and go over the journey ahead. Later, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner accompanied by live cultural performances—a perfect introduction to Nepal’s rich heritage and warm hospitality.

Fly to Lukla then Trek to Phakding

 Altitude: 2,860m (Lukla) to 2,610m (Phakding)

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Flight Time: 20–35 minutes (Depending on departure airport)
 
 Flight to Lukla – Two Seasonal Options
Option 1: Manthali to Lukla Flight (Peak Seasons: March, April, May, October, November)
Due to high air traffic at Kathmandu Airport during peak trekking seasons, all flights to Lukla operate from Manthali Airport (Ramechhap).
 
Early morning departure from Kathmandu (around 1:30–2:30 AM) via private tourist vehicle
 
Drive duration: 5–6 hours
 
Flight time from Manthali to Lukla: 20 minutes
 
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, consider staying overnight in Ramechhap the day before.
 
Option 2: Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (Off-Peak Seasons: Jan, Feb, Jun–Sep, Dec)
In off-peak months, flights to Lukla operate directly from Kathmandu Airport.
 
Transfer to the domestic terminal early in the morning
 
Flight time: Approx. 35 minutes
 
 Trek to Phakding Begins
After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla (2,860m)—one of the world’s most thrilling airports—we’ll enjoy breakfast and meet our guide and porters who will accompany us throughout the trek.
 
We begin our journey along a scenic trail that descends through pine forests and follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through the charming village of Chaurikharka (2,713m). The well-marked trail offers gentle walking conditions, ideal for your first day of trekking.
 
After a 3–4 hour hike, we arrive at Phakding (2,610m), a peaceful riverside village, where we check into our lodge, have a warm dinner, and rest for the night.
 
Included:
 Accommodation in a teahouse
 Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
 
 
 

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

 Altitude: 2,610m (Phakding) → 3,440m (Namche Bazaar)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
 
Today’s destination is the iconic Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Everest region and a vibrant Sherpa trading town nestled in the Himalayas.
 
After an early breakfast, we begin our trek along the scenic trail that follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags and passing through lush forests of pine and rhododendron.
 
As we ascend gradually, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks teasing us through the trees.
 
We officially enter the Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, where your permits will be checked. From here, the trail becomes steeper, but the rewards are worth the effort. The final climb to Namche Bazaar is a challenging uphill hike, but it offers incredible first glimpses of Mount Everest (on clear days) and surrounding giants like Thamserku and Kongde Ri.
 
Upon reaching Namche Bazaar (3,440m)—the largest Sherpa town in the region—you’ll find yourself surrounded by colorful houses, lively markets, bakeries, gear shops, and unmatched mountain views. After a hearty dinner, rest well and prepare for the upcoming days of high-altitude trekking.
 
Included:
Accommodation in a teahouse
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

 Altitude: 3,440m → 3,962m (Everest View Hotel) → 3,440m

Hiking Duration: 2–3 hours (side hike)
 
Today is a crucial acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the rising altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness as you ascend deeper into the Himalayas.
 
But rest doesn’t mean inactivity! After breakfast, we take a short yet rewarding hike to the famous Everest View Hotel (3,962m / 13,000ft)—recognized as one of the highest-altitude hotels in the world.
 
The trail climbs gradually above Namche Bazaar, offering increasingly stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri. Once at the hotel, enjoy a hot drink on the terrace while soaking in one of the best 360° Himalayan views.
 
After spending some time at the viewpoint, we hike back down to Namche Bazaar. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore local shops, visit the Sherpa Museum, or enjoy a bakery treat at one of the cozy cafés.
 
Included:
Accommodation in a teahouse
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga

 Altitude: 3,440m → 3,680m

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
 
Today’s trek takes us to the serene village of Phortse Thanga, a peaceful stopover en route to Gokyo Valley.
 
We begin the day with a steep uphill climb, moving through lush rhododendron and birch forests, which turn vibrant with color during spring. The trail becomes increasingly scenic as you ascend, with tall juniper and pine trees lining the path and fresh mountain air energizing your steps.
 
As we continue, we pass through Yak Kharkas, seasonal grazing settlements where local Sherpas bring their yaks during warmer months. This part of the trail offers incredible views of Khumbi La (5,761m)—a sacred mountain for the Sherpa people—and Tawache Peak (6,495m), standing proudly in the distance.
 
Though the trail has some challenging sections, the reward is in the untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the Khumbu region.
 
We eventually reach Phortse Thanga (3,680m), a small riverside Sherpa village surrounded by forests and Himalayan views. After dinner, we rest for the night in a cozy teahouse, preparing for more altitude and awe in the days ahead.
 
Included:
Accommodation in a teahouse
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
 

Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machhermo

 Altitude: 3,680m → 4,470m

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
 
Today’s trek offers some of the most dramatic landscapes of the Gokyo route. We start our journey with an early morning ascent up a ridge, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the valley below and the majestic Mount Kengtega.
 
As we continue to climb higher, Cho Oyu (8,188m)—the sixth-highest mountain in the world—dominates the horizon, offering an unforgettable panoramic scene right ahead.
 
The trail descends briefly to a river before climbing again towards the end of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, stretching over 36 kilometers. This section of the trek can be physically demanding, but the ever-changing terrain and spectacular views will keep your spirits high.
 
By afternoon, we arrive at the peaceful village of Machhermo (4,470m). Surrounded by Himalayan giants and alpine beauty, this is a perfect place to relax, acclimatize, and take in the serenity of the high mountains.
 
Included:
Accommodation in a teahouse
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
 

Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo

Altitude: 3,680m → 4,470m

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours

Today’s trek offers some of the most dramatic landscapes of the Gokyo route. We start our journey with an early morning ascent up a ridge, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the valley below and the majestic Mount Kengtega.

As we continue to climb higher, Cho Oyu (8,188m)—the sixth-highest mountain in the world—dominates the horizon, offering an unforgettable panoramic scene right ahead.

The trail descends briefly to a river before climbing again towards the end of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, stretching over 36 kilometers. This section of the trek can be physically demanding, but the ever-changing terrain and spectacular views will keep your spirits high.

By afternoon, we arrive at the peaceful village of Machhermo (4,470m). Surrounded by Himalayan giants and alpine beauty, this is a perfect place to relax, acclimatize, and take in the serenity of the high mountains.

Included:

Accommodation in a teahouse

Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Hike to Gokyo Ri

 Altitude: 4,790m (Gokyo) → 5,357m (Gokyo Ri) → up to ~5,000m (Fifth Lake)

Hiking Duration: 5–6 hours (round trip)
 
Today is both an acclimatization day and the highlight of the Gokyo Lake Trek. We rise early for a sunrise hike to the majestic Gokyo Ri (5,357m). The steep ascent is rewarded with one of the most breathtaking 360° panoramas in the Himalayas—featuring Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the shimmering Gokyo Lakes spread below.
 
After returning to Gokyo for breakfast, we continue our adventure by exploring the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes, located to the north of the village. The Fourth Lake (Thonak Tsho) lies about 3 km away, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snow-capped peaks.
 
A short hike further takes us to the Fifth Lake (Ngozumpa Tsho), where a steep climb leads to the famous Scoundrel’s Viewpoint. From here, enjoy awe-inspiring views of Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. To the north, you can even spot the Cho Oyu Base Camp and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier.
 
After soaking in the grandeur of this incredible alpine region, we return to Gokyo Village for dinner and a well-earned night of rest.
 
Included:
Accommodation in a teahouse
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
 

Trek from Gokyo to Dole

 Altitude: 4,790m (Gokyo) → 4,200m (Dole)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
 
Today marks your farewell to the magical Gokyo Valley as we begin our descent towards the village of Dole. The trail offers a different perspective of the landscape as you retrace your steps, passing by the tranquil Gokyo Lakes and following the flow of the Dudh Koshi River.
 
As you walk, enjoy stunning views of Cholatse (6,440m) and Taboche (6,542m), two dramatic peaks that rise boldly against the skyline. A brief climb to a scenic Chorten (Buddhist stupa) rewards you with spectacular panoramas of Thamserku, Kangtega, and Cho Oyu.
 
The trail continues through traditional Sherpa villages like Lhafarma, Luza, and Machhermo, where you can observe the everyday mountain life of the locals. After a steady downhill journey, we finally reach Dole, a quiet and scenic village nestled among alpine meadows.
 
After a warm dinner, you’ll spend the night in a cozy teahouse, reflecting on the incredible views and experiences of the past days.
 
Included:
Accommodation in a teahouse
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar

Altitude: 4,790m (Gokyo) → 4,200m (Dole)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours


Today marks your farewell to the magical Gokyo Valley as we begin our descent towards the village of Dole. The trail offers a different perspective of the landscape as you retrace your steps, passing by the tranquil Gokyo Lakes and following the flow of the Dudh Koshi River.


As you walk, enjoy stunning views of Cholatse (6,440m) and Taboche (6,542m), two dramatic peaks that rise boldly against the skyline. A brief climb to a scenic Chorten (Buddhist stupa) rewards you with spectacular panoramas of Thamserku, Kangtega, and Cho Oyu.


The trail continues through traditional Sherpa villages like Lhafarma, Luza, and Machhermo, where you can observe the everyday mountain life of the locals. After a steady downhill journey, we finally reach Dole, a quiet and scenic village nestled among alpine meadows.


After a warm dinner, you’ll spend the night in a cozy teahouse, reflecting on the incredible views and experiences of the past days.


Included:

Accommodation in a teahouse

Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Today is our final day of the trek, and afterwards, you will be using transportation. After completing breakfast, you will walk down. The trail will be rocky, and you have to cross lots of suspension bridges. Then the trail becomes an involved flat route, which makes the journey much easier.
 
The atmosphere and air also change to warmer. The route will be familiar to you because it is the same one we took at the beginning. Once we reach Lukla, our adventure of the Gokyo Lake Trek concludes. We will have a brief reflection session, and afterward, you can explore around this town. Yoy will stay for a night in Lukla.
 
Included: Accomodation and Full Board Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
 

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Flight Options Back to Kathmandu

Option 1: Lukla to Manthali Flight (Peak Season: March, April, May, October, November)
Due to heavy air traffic, flights to Kathmandu operate from Manthali Airport (Ramechhap) during peak seasons.
 
Early morning flight from Lukla (approx. 20 minutes)
 
After landing in Ramechhap, a representative from Access Nepal will greet you
 
Transfer by private tourist bus to Kathmandu (5–6 hours drive, traffic-dependent)
 
Overnight stay in Kathmandu
 
Option 2: Lukla to Kathmandu Flight (Off-Peak Season: Jan, Feb, Jun–Sep, Dec)
During off-peak months, flights operate directly from Lukla to Kathmandu.
 
Early morning flight (approx. 35 minutes)
 
Meet Access Nepal staff upon arrival for hotel transfer
 
Free afternoon to relax or explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub
 
Helicopter Transfer Option
For a faster, more comfortable journey—or to avoid flight delays and the long drive to Manthali—you can book a helicopter transfer at an additional cost of $550 USD per person. This option offers breathtaking aerial views and peace of mind.
 
Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner at a fine Nepali restaurant, where we’ll celebrate your incredible journey through the Everest region. Share stories, memories, and toast to the adventures ahead.
 
If you wish to extend your stay or explore other parts of Nepal—whether by trekking, sightseeing, or cultural tours—our team will be happy to assist you in planning your next adventure.
 
Included:
Accommodation in Kathmandu hotel
Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Departure from Kathmandu

 Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ft

 
Today marks the end of your unforgettable Gokyo Lake Trek adventure and your time in Nepal. Our friendly representative from Access Nepal Tours and Trekking will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
 
We hope you enjoyed every moment exploring the majestic Himalayas with us. Thank you for choosing Access Nepal, and you are always welcome to return for new adventures in the future.
 
Safe travels and Namaste!
 
Included:
Breakfast
Airport transfer
 
Destination Info
  • Country: Nepal
  • Destination: TREKKING
  • Place: Gokyo Valley Trek
  • Itineraries: 12 Nights/13 Days
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