Gokyo Lakes Trek-An impeccable blend of towering mountains and emerald lakes
Gokyo Lakes Trek is one of the most sought-after trekking routes in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trek leads you to Gokyo Lakes, the world's highest freshwater lake system encompassing main six awe-inspiring, dazzling turquoise lakes. Gokyo Lakes Trek involves a walk through the off-the-beaten paths of the Khumbu region amid snow-clad mountainous terrains and astounding wilderness. It is a fun-filled walking journey in the Solukhumbu district of Sagarmatha Zone in north-eastern Nepal. The trek is an amalgamation of adventure, exploration, and celestial natural beauty that'll surely leave you with a heightened feeling of fulfillment and pleasure. This could be the best alternative trekking trail for the Everest base camp trekking.
Gokyo LakesTrek highlights
- Explore the charm of six pristine blue glacial lakes situated at an altitude of between 4,700 m and 5,000 m. (namely Gokyo Tsho, Thonak Tsho, Kyajumba Tsho, Ngozumba Tsho, Tanjung Tsho, and Gyazumpa Tsho,) An exclusive opportunity to witness the splendid beauty of Gokyo Valley surrounded by giant snow-capped mountains
- Experience the diversity of the ecosystem in a short period as you come across the high Himalayan Mountains, huge glaciers, cold streams, serene lakes, wilderness, etc.
- Get the astounding 360-degree view of Everest massif-Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
- Hike along Ngozumpa Glacier and explore its eternal elegance
- Admire the unique and traditional artistic works of Sherpa ethnic tribes on the trail and learn about their hospital nature and vibrant culture.
The impeccably clean, emerald-green lakes owe their striking color to runoff from surrounding glaciers. These are freshwater wetlands lying at an elevation of 4,700-5,000 m. that feed on high-altitude glaciers. Gokyo Lakes Trek delivers a great sense of the vastness of nature and a sense of calm and clarity to soothe your soul. The idyllic views of glistening lakes in the lap of gigantic, glorious mountain ranges are a pleasant sight to behold.
We, Global Adventure Trekking, offer you a 13-day Gokyo Lakes Trek package. In this 13-day trek, you'll delve into the peaceful serenity of calm-glacial lakes and relish captivating views of the world's highest mountains. You'll be awestruck at the sheer size and authenticity of these sparkling alpine lakes in Gokyo Valley. The background of majestic white snow-filled mountains adds to the allure of freshwater allure and refines your Himalaya experience.
Beyond the astounding Himalaya aura, you'll also feel the strong influence of Hinduism and Buddhism in the Gokyo area as the place is highly believed to be sacred. Get spiritual healing and a sense of rest from overstimulation in this serene and religious atmosphere.
Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Ri
Gokyo Valley, home to oligotrophic freshwater lakes, lies within the Sagarmatha National Park area at the base of Gokyo Ri. Gokyo Ri (5,357 m.) is the vantage point that overlooks the Mt. Everest Massif range and provides a mesmerizing view of four 8000 m peaks along with turquoise-colored Gokyo Lakes. Explore the raw appeal of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu (8,201 m.) from the summit of Gokyo Ri with your naked eyes. Besides, it is also possible to possible to observe the divine beauty of Ngozumpa glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas from the top of Gokyo Peak. The 3.6 km long glacier lies below the sixth-highest mountain Cho Oyu and feeds a high-altitude freshwater lake system.
Gokyo Lakes Trek details
Gokyo Lakes Trek is an alternative route to the utterly commercial trekking path of the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek and a slightly off route while visiting EBC. You'll be able to explore the uncongested Gokyo trail amongst a few crowds and interact with locals freely.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek follows the classic EBC trail until Namche and then traverses Sagarmatha National Park while diverting towards Machhermo. You'll walk through one of the most picturesque off-the-beat routes in the Everest region, crossing patches of birch and rhododendron forests. The trek involves a gradual ascent up the valley along varied and verdant landscapes to finally lead you toward the hidden gem of mountains in the form of lakes.
In the valley, you'll hike up approximately 4 hours to summit Gokyo Ri for a rewarding sunrise view. The Gokyo Trek route ends with a steep climb up to Gokyo Ri at an altitude of 5,357 meters. As the trek is in and out, you'll have to retrace the step back to the trailhead once you've reached the endpoint.
After savoring the magnificent beauty of Gokyo Lakes in their enchanting attire and the alluring backdrop of gratifying mountains in Gokyo Ri, you descend to Namche Bazaar. You'll spend the concluding days of adventure in a delightful Sherpa village to sample their wonderful hospitality and get an insight into their way of life.
How difficult is the Gokyo Lake Trek?
Gokyo Lakes Trek is an adventurous and extreme experience; a challenging feat that requires at least 5 hours of walking in a day. As you trek up the trail in high-altitude mountain surroundings, you'll encounter rugged terrains and uninhabited areas. It's a bit of a struggle to spend several days in the mountain wilderness, far from the comforts of modern life. It requires a great deal of motivation enthusiasm a general stamina level to accomplish the trek.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek involves multiple steep climbing sections and the ice ridge between Cho Oyu and Gyachung can be challenging. As you are about to embark on a trek that reaches as high as 5,357 m, there is a possibility of getting altitude-related sickness. If everything is well you may choose to Renjola pass trek to Thame and Namche Bazaar.
Fret not Û our itinerary of the Gokyo Lakes 13-day Trek includes an acclimatization day to let your body adjust to high altitude. The number of nights spent above 4000m on this trek is less than on the Everest Base Camp trek. Besides, you have experienced leaders and Sherpa porters to guide you throughout the journey and ensure your safety.
Stay fit and prepare yourself mentally for the trek. The frequent elevation gain can be physically and mentally exhausting, but once you reach the top and taste the incredible mountain essence, you'll realize that it is worth the effort.
Best season to do the Gokyo Lakes Trek
As with the majority of treks in high-altitude regions of Nepal, the best season to undertake the Gokyo Lakes Valley trek is March-May (Spring) and Mid-September to November (Autumn). Although Gokyo Valley receives visitors throughout the year, the weather is not quite stable during the monsoon and winter seasons. The warm and humid conditions, messy trails, and considerable rain make monsoon season an unfavorable time to undertake the Gokyo Lakes Trek.
Similarly, the winter season is characterized by significant temperature drops, a high chance of snowfall, and foggy weather in the valley. But the trail is less days crowded and has a super nice view in this season, allowing to you trek into the peaceful environment in your spirits.
Gokyo Lake Trek preparation:
Surely, the Gokyo Valley trek is a stunning trekking route in Sagarmatha National Park of the Everest region, offering breathtaking views of unparalleled landscapes, the mighty Himalayas, and serene lakes. Here a some guidelines on how to prepare for a trip to the Gokyo Lakes.
Physical Fitness and Exercise for Gokyo Valley Trek:
Start a regular fitness routine at least 2-3 months before the trek. Focus on cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance activities.
Practice daily walking and hiking with a 5 kg. loaded backpack to make trekking conditions easier.
Permits and Necessary Papers and Flight Tickets:
Obtain a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card through a legal trekking company like Global Adventure Trekking to get a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit. Make your trek booking on time which allows us to make the Lukla flight tickets as early as possible. Get a Local Rural Municipality permit
Proper Packing list:
Pack lightweight trekking clothing.
Bring a good quality of trekking boots with comfortable socks.
Pack a warm 4 season sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures.
Carry a personal first aid kit, water purification tablets, and personal medications, do not forget extra skin plaster.
Trousers, a down jacket, gloves, and a woolen hat to stay warm at night in higher altitudes.
Remember to pack a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle.
Acclimatization in the mountain:
Make sure your travel company Plans your itinerary with acclimatization days.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine while trekking in Mountian.
Be familiar with your guide and get to know about the symptoms of high altitude
Trekking Daily Itinerary:
We researched and proposed Gokyo Lakes trek takes 11-13 days. Make sure your guide and porter are insured and certified.
Budgeting and Accommodation:
If you are going solo individual then work on daily expenditure. Going with Global Adventure might cost you 5 to 10 USD per day for your expenses.
Teahouses and Guesthouse are the most common accommodation options while Gokyo Valley Trek. Carry-only cash ATMs not be available in remote areas.
Responsible Trekking:
Respect local customs, Culture, and traditions. Learning a few basic phrases in Nepali will make your journey enjoyable. Pack out all your trash and dispose of it properly. Travel locally and Experience Luxury.
Travel Insurance:
Insurance is mandatory for high-altitude treks, purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking activities and emergency evacuation costs.
Weather and Best Time to Gokyo Trek:
The best time for Gokyo Valley is during the pre-monsoon season (March to May) and post-monsoon season (September to November) when the weather is relatively stable. Winter season November and December are best for visibility.
Happy Journey:
Be positive, think positive, and enjoy the stunning Mountain view with diverse flora and fauna!
