Kathmandu, Nepal
The Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the most scenic adventures in the Everest region, offering magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks including Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This less-crowded alternative to the Everest Base Camp route takes trekkers through beautiful Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and turquoise glacial lakes, culminating at Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the most stunning panoramas in the Himalayas.
This journey blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty—making it a perfect choice for trekkers seeking both serenity and awe-inspiring Himalayan grandeur. With Safe Himalayan Travel & Adventure (SHTA), you’ll enjoy safe logistics, professional Sherpa guides, and well-paced acclimatization for a rewarding high-altitude experience.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Altitude: (1,350m)
Meet our SHTA representative at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel, trip briefing, and welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Explore UNESCO Heritage Sites – Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath & Boudhanath. Equipment check and permit arrangements..
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: (2,610m)
A scenic mountain flight to Lukla, followed by a gentle trek through Sherpa villages and along the Dudh Koshi River.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,440m
Following a rocky path alongside the Dudh Koshi River, crossing the suspension bridges over the river, and passing through the waterfalls and lush green forests of rhododendron and oak, you will reach Monjo (2,835m), a small village in the Khumbu region and the entrance gate to Sagarmatha National Park. Then after you will descend to Josale (2,740m), the final settlement before Namche Bazar. After a total of 6 to 7 hours of trek, you will finally reach Namche Bazar, the capital of the Khumbu region, and stay overnight.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 marks the acclimatization day in Namche Bazar as you have come a long way up and you need to get adjusted to the height before the trail gains elevation. As it is the only acclimatization day, you will hike to Everest View Hotel for the panoramic outstanding vistas of Mt. Everest (8848 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Mt. Nuptse (7,855m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,856m), Mt. Thamserku (6723m), Mt. Kantega (6,979m), Mt. Kusum Kangaru (6,367m), Mt. Kongde (6,011m), Mt. Tawache Peak (6,367m), Mt. Cholaste (6,335m), Island Peak (6,179m), Khumbila (God of Khumbu) at 5,761m, and more. After spending some time, you will return back to Namche and explore the Sherpa settlement and markets.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 3,840m
Today you will proceed along a gentle trail to gain altitude again up to Phorste Thanga, a village still to be explored. Being located at the base of Tauche Peak, it is home to Nepal's national bird danphe, husk deer, and snow leopard, and offers a chance to witness the heavenly beauty of the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 4,470m
The seventh day begins with the climb up along the side of the valley high above the river, crossing sandy spurs to reach Machhermo, a small village located at 4,470 meters above sea level. It lies just below the terminal moraine of the longest glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier. Overnight in a hotel.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 4,750m
This is the most significant part of the Gokyo trek. Continuing the trail, you will reach Yak Pastures and Phanga within an hour. The more height the trek gets, the narrower and zigzag the trail is. But the vistas the trek offers are just so amazing and worthy.
Within the duration of 5 hours, the trek will conclude. As you reach Gokyo Valley, passing over the first and second Gokyo Lakes, you will be obsessed with the scenery and serenity around you. Overnight at Gokyo.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Altitude: 5,483m
Today you will reach the highest point of the trek, which is Gokyo Ri, 5,483 meters above sea level. In the early morning, you will hike up for 3 hours, to reach Gokyo Peak. The peak above the lake offers a spectacular panoramic view of the towering peaks including Mt. Everest (8,848m), Mt. Makalu (8,485m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Mt. Nuptse (7,855m), Mt. Cho-Oyu (8,201m), and more. After spending some time enjoying the surrounding beauty, you will come back to Gokyo and spend the night.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner
Altitude: 4,200m
Today onwards you will be climbing downwards, following the narrow rocky trail through the rhododendron and pine forests. It will take around 6 hours to reach Dole Village (4,200m) enjoying the scenic view of the blue lakes reflecting the snowcapped mountains around it.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Keeping on with the journey, you will follow the trail that unfolds breathtaking vistas of the Everest region, picturesque landscapes, Tengboche Monastery, and Sherpa settlements. After 4 to 5 hours of walking, you will find yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Khumbu Valley and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling Sherpa market town in between the unparalleled mountain beauty.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trek for the journey will conclude today as you will trek to Lukla from Namche Bazar. It will take around 6 to 7 hours of gradual walk down through Sherpa settlements, lush green rhododendrons, and pine forests. It is going to be a captivating journey through the heart of the Khumbu region in the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Upon an early morning flight to Kathmandu, our guide will escort you to your hotel, providing you with a chance to unwind after your long journey. Take a moment to catch your breath and rejuvenate at your hotel, marking the conclusion of your Himalayan adventure with us.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is your departure day. After breakfast, our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport so that you can get on your flight on time and have a safe journey to your country.
Scenic flight to Lukla and trek through the heart of the Khumbu region
Stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Cho Oyu from Gokyo Ri
Exploration of the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes
Sherpa culture, monasteries, and warm hospitality
Peaceful alternative to the busy EBC trail
Experienced Sherpa guides & porters
Safety-focused itinerary with proper acclimatization
Eco-conscious and culturally respectful travel
Personalized service and 24/7 support throughout the trek
The Gokyo Lake Trek is renowned for its stunning glacial lakes, breathtaking mountain views, and a less crowded route compared to other treks in the Everest region. The highlight is the series of pristine turquoise lakes that reflect the towering peaks, creating a surreal and picturesque setting.
The Gokyo Lake Trek spans 15 days, covering the trekking route, acclimatization days, and travel to and from Kathmandu. The package includes accommodation, meals, permits, a professional guide, and additional sightseeing in Kathmandu.
The optimal times for the Gokyo Lake Trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring: March to May) and post-monsoon (autumn: September to November) seasons. These periods offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning views, making for an ideal trekking experience.
As the trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters, altitude sickness is a potential concern. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to help trekkers adjust gradually. Trekkers are advised to stay hydrated, follow the guide's recommendations, and be aware of altitude-related symptoms.
Trekkers need both a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card for the Gokyo Lake Trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu before the trek, and our team will assist with the process.
The Gokyo Lake Trek is considered moderately challenging. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness as the trail involves ascending and descending various terrains. The reward, however, is the stunning panorama of Gokyo's lakes and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.