Gokyo Valley Lake Trek
A quieter Everest-region route focused on turquoise Gokyo lakes, glacier views, and the panoramic climb to Gokyo Ri.
This trail branches away from the busier Everest Base Camp corridor after Namche and climbs through Dole, Machhermo, and the Gokyo lake system. It is ideal for trekkers who want big Himalayan views with a slightly calmer rhythm.
Fly to Lukla and walk to Phakding
2,610 mStart gently along the Dudh Koshi and settle into tea house life.
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
3,440 mClimb through forest and suspension bridges into the Khumbu hub.
Acclimatization in Namche
3,880 mHike high toward Khumjung and return to Namche for the night.
Namche to Dole
4,200 mLeave the main Everest corridor and climb through rhododendron and yak pasture.
Dole to Machhermo
4,470 mTake a shorter day to protect acclimatization while entering open alpine terrain.
Machhermo to Gokyo
4,790 mPass the first lakes and reach the Gokyo settlement beside the main lake.
Gokyo Ri and lake exploration
5,357 mClimb before sunrise for a wide Everest panorama, then explore lakes near Gokyo.
Gokyo to Dole
4,200 mDescend slowly with changing views over the valley and glacier rim.
Dole to Namche Bazaar
3,440 mReturn through Mong La and reconnect with the main Khumbu trail.
Namche to Lukla
2,860 mComplete the walking route and regroup for the flight buffer.
More from Everest
Everest Base Camp
The classic Khumbu journey through Sherpa villages, glacial valleys, Everest Base Camp, and the sunrise viewpoint of Kalapathar.
Gokyo with Chola
A bigger Everest circuit linking the Gokyo lake basin with the Khumbu glacier side by crossing Chola Pass.
Gokyo with Renjola
A scenic high-pass loop that pairs Gokyo lakes with the less crowded Renjola Pass crossing toward Thame.