Everest Gokyo Lake Trek - 13 days

Your trip starts as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Once you are done with the procedures, you will meet with the team representatives. From there, the team representatives will drop you off at your hotel. 

Once you freshen up, you will have the opportunity to meet with your guide for a pre trip briefing. In that briefing, you can ask any questions that you have regarding the tour. If you arrive early and the meeting ends soon, you can explore Kathmandu Valley, as the city has a lot to offer. You can try local delicacies, visit several places or do last minute shopping before your trek starts.

We are going on a tour of the vibrant city of Kathmandu, a destination rich with diverse cultures and enduring traditions, following an early morning meal. We will spend the day seeing the many cultural heritage sites in the city, each of which provides a different window into the colorful history and illustrious presence of Kathmandu. 

We will see famous sites like Patan Durbar Square, a masterpiece of Newar craftsmanship and the location of several temples and courtyards, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which is recognized for its exquisite wood carvings and magnificent medieval architecture. Witness the spiritual rites that have been carried out along the banks of the holy Bagmati River for millennia at Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples.

You will have plenty of time to get ready for your next excursion in the evening following a day of exploration and discovery. To make sure you are well-prepared for the journey ahead, this is the perfect time to unwind, think back on the events of the day, and take care of any last-minute shopping needs. 

The flight to Lukla is a breathtaking experience, offering unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayan peaks that line the border between Nepal and Tibetan China. 

Once preparations are complete in Lukla, we embark on a short trek, descending along a broad trail that winds its way northwestward towards the village of Choblung in the Dudh Kosi Valley. Along the way, we traverse through lush pine and rhododendron forests, the air filled with the sweet scent of the blooming flora. 

The path follows the gentle course of the Dudh Kosi River, leading us through the charming village of Ghat. After approximately three hours of walking, we arrive at our destination for the day, the picturesque village of Phakding.

Following the Dudh Kosi River, the trail leads us through breathtaking alpine landscapes adorned with fragrant blue pine and fir forests, offering glimpses of majestic peaks like Kusum Kangru (6,369 m) and Thanserku (6,608 m) along the way. Crossing the Dudh Kosi once more to the western bank at Jorsale, we continue towards the entrance of Sagamartha (Everest) National Park.

Traversing upstream along the riverbanks to the convergence of the Bhote Kosi and Dudh Koshi, we commence our initial sustained ascent towards Namche Bazaar after crossing a vast suspension bridge. 

Progressing at a gentle pace, we seize the opportunity for photographs as the towering peaks of Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,511m), Nuptse (7,879m), Ama Dablam (6,856m), and Taweche (6,542m) gradually reveal themselves.

Ascending once more, the path leads us through enchanting pine forests until we reach the vibrant village of Namche Bazaar, where we will spend the night.

Today marks a crucial day dedicated to rest and acclimatization in Namche Bazaar. Renowned for its bustling local market, Namche serves as a hub where Sherpas from surrounding villages gather weekly to procure essential goods and socialize. 

Many staple foods, such as rice, corn, and select vegetables, are sourced from lowland villages, necessitating a journey of 6-10 days to reach Namche Bazaar.

For early risers, a climb to the ridge above Namche promises a breathtaking sunrise over the panoramic views of the Khumbu peaks, a sight not to be missed. 

In the afternoon, leisurely strolls along the picturesque Thami Valley or a visit to the National Park Headquarters offer opportunities to delve into the Sherpa lifestyle, culture, and rich biodiversity of the region. Engage with informative displays on mountaineering in the park, as well as flora and fauna, before retiring for the night in Namche Bazaar.

Departing from Namche Bazaar, the journey unfolds through stunning vistas as we ascend the Dudh Koshi valley. 

Along the way, we encounter ancient stupas and breathtaking views of iconic peaks like Ama Dablam, Everest, and Thamserku. As the trail winds its way through fragrant pine and vibrant rhododendron forests, we reach a junction where the path diverges.

Opting for the route leading to Gokyo Lakes, we venture leftward, passing through the quaint village of Mong. Despite its small size, Mong offers panoramic views stretching towards Tengboche and beyond from its ridge perch. 

En route, we are treated to the sights and sounds of cascading waterfalls and blooming rhododendrons, though our enthusiasm may wane slightly when faced with the challenge of stone stairs. After hours of walking, we finally arrived in Dole.

Ascending from Dole, the trail leads us to Lambara at 4,220 meters and Luza at 4,360 meters. Characterized by steep inclines, the path winds through scrub junipers, occasionally revealing kharkas, or pasturelands, nestled in flat areas with access to water sources. 

These kharkas are owned by the people of Khumjung, marking their presence on this side of the valley. Continuing our ascent along the valley's edge, with the river below, we traverse sandy spurs until we reach the village of Machherma.

Setting out from Machhermo, the trail ascends towards another picturesque ridge offering panoramic views of Kangtega before winding through a narrow valley that gradually opens up into a broader expanse. 

Today's trek presents moderate challenges, with only a few brief steep sections along the way. Descending towards the Dudh Koshi River, we prepare for a steep climb up to the Ngozumpa Glacier and the first of the Gokyo Lakes.

Progressing further, we reach the third lake, where quaint teahouses offer a welcome respite. It's worth noting that there are a total of six lakes in the Gokyo region, all collectively known as Gokyo Lakes.

Here, we pause for a well-deserved lunch break before embarking on the ascent to Gokyo Ri. This climb typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, culminating in a breathtaking viewpoint at an altitude of 5,357 meters. From the summit of Gokyo Ri, trekkers are treated to a magnificent panorama of towering mountains above and shimmering lakes and glaciers below.

Embarking on the morning hike to the fourth Gokyo Lake, we'll traverse mostly flat terrain, making for an easy trek lasting approximately 45 minutes to an hour. 

Upon reaching the lake, take some time to soak in its serene beauty before retracing our steps back to Gokyo for a hearty breakfast. Following breakfast, we begin our journey back to Machhermo, where we'll conclude our adventure for the day.

Following an early breakfast, we set out towards Namche Bazaar, our final destination on this trek. As we approach Namche, the bustling atmosphere and vibrant energy of the town contrast with the tranquility of the smaller villages we've encountered along the way. 

Here, amidst the lively streets and bustling markets, we spend our last night of the trek, soaking in the unique ambiance of Namche Bazaar before bidding farewell to the mountains.

Tracing our steps alongside the Dudh Koshi River, we cross the familiar suspension bridges that marked the beginning of our journey. Soon, we find ourselves back in Lukla, where we'll spend the night, anticipating our early morning flight back to Kathmandu.

A brief flight returns us to the capital city. Your hotel is ready to welcome you, and there's ample time to wander the city streets or indulge in some souvenir shopping.

We'll accompany you to the airport for your departure. If you're extending your stay in Nepal, we wish you a fantastic continuation, and we're also here to organize your next adventure if you desire.