Indulge in the experience of standing and relaxing at the shore of the world’s highest freshwater lakes. Here’s everything you need to know about Gokyo Lake.
Gokyo Lakes comprises six glacial lakes- Gokyo Cho, aka Dudh Pokhari, Phonak Cho, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, and Ngojumba Cho.
With Gokyo Cho, aka Dudh Pokhara, the main one among the six lakes, it is the world’s highest freshwater lake system, located at an altitude of 4,700 - 5,000 m above sea level in the Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest in Nepal.
Trekkers often visit Gokyo Lakes as a side trip on the famous Mount Everest Base Camp trek. Regardless, we have several other Gokyo Lakes packages that will give you the ultimate Everest experience if you want to avoid the busier Everest Base Camp Trek route.
Gokyo Lakes Highlights
- The major attraction of Gokyo Lakes is relaxing alongside the world’s highest freshwater lake system while enjoying the ultimate Everest experience at 5000 m.
- The Gokyo Lakes also holds great religious significance and are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- During the Janai Purnima festival, people from all around the country visit Gokyo lakes to take a holy bath.
- Another core attraction of this trek is the mesmerizing views of the glorious mountains such as Mt. Lhotse, Mt Makalu, Mt Cho Oyu, etc.
- The hike through the scenic forests of Sagarmatha National Park will allow you to explore the wildlife habitats, birds, and natural Vegetation.
- Residing at the heart of the Khumbu region, the trek to Gokyo Lake will allow you to learn, witness, and experience the unique culture and traditions of different ethnic groups, mainly sherpas.
- Lastly, witnessing the magical sunrise over Gokyo Ri has to be one of the main highlights of this trek.
How to reach Gokyo Lakes?
Your first step towards the mystical Gokyo lakes is the flight to Lukla. You will see the beautiful views of the Himalayas, hills, and the Lukla village in one picture. This flight will be an adventure for you as the runway of Lukla airport is considered one of the most dangerous runways in the world.
Your trek starts after your flight as you walk towards the Namche Bazar, the popular tourist hub while getting past the Phakding and witnessing the glorious mountains such as Mt Everest, Mt Thamserku, Mt Ama Dablam, and others in your rear sight. After walking for several days through the Dole, Machhermo, and others, you will reach your final destination, Gokyo Village.
The Gokyo Village is one of the highest settlement areas in the whole world, located at the height of 4,750 m above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas. You can encounter all six lakes from Gokyo Village. You will witness beautiful scenic landscapes, walk through the banks of several pristine rivers, and see wildlife along the Gokyo Village trail.
Additionally, if you still have some energy left after hiking to Gokyo Village, you should hike up to Gokyo Ri. Situated at a height of 5,357 m, it offers the view of the four highest peaks in the world- Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Makalu, and lastly, Mt Cho Oyu.
When is the best time to visit Gokyo Lakes?
Like most treks in Nepal, the best time to visit Gokyo Lakes through the lap of the Himalayas are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).
The weather is likely to be clear during these months, with the daytime temperature warm, allowing you to have the best trekking experience. You can even witness the national flower of Nepal- the Rhododendron in full bloom during the spring months.
It is possible to trek to Gokyo Lake in the summer or winter season. Still, it is most likely to rain during the summer, and the trekking trail will likely be foggy during the winter months, increasing the risk and complex conditions. Considering these points, you may not even get to see clear views.
Accommodations and Foods
The accommodations on the Gokyo Lakes trek are relatively comfortable, varying from basic to mid-range. Having said that, not all grades of hotels/teahouses may be available in all settlements of the Gokyo Lake trek. However, the tea house owner or the hotel owners may charge extra for hot showers, electric blankets, charging electronic gadgets, internet, etc.
As per the food, you can expect the Nepali, Indian, and Tibetan-style menu and a few western dishes along the trail of this trek.
Physical Fitness
As the trail of this trail can give you the ultimate Everest experience without actually walking through the trails of Everest Base Camp. This trek requires you to exercise regularly and be mentally prepared before the trek.
The Gokyo Lakes Trek is graded as a moderate to strenuous trek. Even though the trail of this trek offers one of the most scenic views in Nepal, it will definitely test your endurance and willpower to reach the final destination.
Conclusion
Gokyo Lakes is one of the beautiful destinations in the Khumbu region along the Everest Trail. From seeing scenic landscapes, walking through the rhododendron forest, and witnessing wildlife to experiencing the cultures of different ethnic groups, this trek will make you forget all about your worries and help you find yourself.
