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Gokyo Lakes Trek – A Scenic Himalayan Journey Beyond Everest

  • 16 Days
  • Strenous
  • March to May & September to November
  • 5,380 meters (Renjo La Pass)

Discover the untouched beauty of the Himalayas with the Gokyo Lakes Trek — a stunning alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route. This adventure takes you off the beaten path into the heart of the Khumbu region, where glacial lakes shimmer beneath towering peaks and ancient Sherpa villages welcome you with warmth and tradition.

The highlight of this trek is the breathtaking series of turquoise lakes in Gokyo Valley, nestled at high altitude and surrounded by snow-capped giants like Cho Oyu and the mighty Everest. From the top of Gokyo Ri (5,360m), one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Nepal, trekkers are rewarded with a sweeping vista of four of the world’s tallest mountains: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Ideal for those looking to avoid the crowds while still experiencing the grandeur of the Everest region, the Gokyo Lakes Trek combines raw natural beauty, cultural encounters, and physical challenge into one unforgettable journey.

Join us at Argos Trekking Nepal for this once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience — where every step leads you deeper into the serene soul of the mountains.

Highlights of the Everest Gokyo Trek

  • Scenic flight to Lukla, gateway to the Everest region
  • Trek through pine forests, alpine pastures, glacial valleys, and turquoise lakes
  • Climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu
  • Cross the high-altitude Renjo La Pass (5,380m)
  • Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries in Tengboche, Pangboche, and Thame
  • Explore Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung
  • Overnight at the luxurious Yeti Mountain Home in Kongde
  • Guided cultural tours of Bhaktapur and Patan (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)

Why Choose Us?

  • Local experts with over 20 years of trekking experience
  • Personalized service and small group sizes
  • Licensed and experienced guides
  • Ethical travel practices and porter welfare

Detail Itinerary

Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and provide a private airport transfer to your hotel in Boudhanath, one of Kathmandu’s most spiritual districts.

Boudhanath is the heart of the city’s Tibetan community and home to the iconic Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in Asia. This peaceful location is the perfect starting point for your Nepal trekking itinerary.

Settle into your hotel, soak in the serene atmosphere, and enjoy a delicious welcome dinner before resting up for your upcoming Himalayan adventure.

In the afternoon, we set off on a private drive to Ramechhap (Manthali), located about 142 km from Kathmandu—a journey of approximately 4–5 hours. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of rural Nepal, terraced hillsides, and winding rivers. We will spend the night in a comfortable lodge near Manthali Airport, ready for tomorrow’s early morning flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.

This morning, we take an early flight from Ramechhap to Lukla, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas (weather permitting). Upon arrival, we meet our friendly Sherpa team and porters who will accompany us on the journey. We then begin our first trek of the adventure—a short yet scenic hike to Phakding, following the Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, we stop to visit the peaceful Rumishung Monastery, adding a cultural touch to the day’s walk.


Distance: 8 km | Duration: 3 hrs | Ascent: +200m | Descent: -420m

Today’s trek follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several iconic suspension bridges draped with prayer flags as we gradually ascend through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages. The trail leads us to Namche Bazaar, the lively heart of the Khumbu region and the bustling capital of the Sherpa people. In the afternoon, take time to explore local shops, bakeries, and the vibrant Saturday market, famous for Tibetan handicrafts and cultural exchanges.


Distance: 9 km | Duration: 5 hrs | Ascent: +1100m | Descent: -290m

To support proper acclimatization, we enjoy a rewarding day hike from Namche Bazaar to the traditional Sherpa village of Khumjung. Nestled beneath the sacred peak of Khumbila, this picturesque village is home to the famous school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961. The hike not only helps us adapt to the altitude but also offers panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks. After exploring Khumjung and its cultural highlights, we return to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay in the same lodge.


Distance: 8 km (round trip) | Duration: 5 hrs | Ascent: +650m | Descent: -625m

We leave Namche Bazaar along the famous Everest Base Camp balcony trail, rewarded with breathtaking views of Thamserku, Kangtega, and the majestic Ama Dablam. The path descends to the Imja Khola, where we cross the Phunki suspension bridge before beginning a steady climb through forests of rhododendron and pine. By late afternoon, we reach Tengboche, home to the renowned Tengboche Monastery—the largest and most active monastery in the Nepalese Himalayas. Here, trekkers often join evening prayers while enjoying panoramic vistas of Everest and surrounding peaks.


Distance: 9 km | Duration: 5 hrs | Ascent: +842m | Descent: -430m

From Tengboche, we follow the trail towards Pangboche village, home to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region—an important spiritual and cultural landmark that we will visit. After a relaxing lunch in Pangboche, the journey continues along a spectacular balcony trail, offering dramatic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The path ascends gradually to Phortse, a traditional Sherpa village less visited by trekkers, providing a quieter and more authentic Himalayan experience. Overnight stay in a local lodge.


Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs | Ascent: +646m | Descent: -670m

Leaving Phortse, we begin a steady ascent towards a high mountain pass decorated with colorful chortens and fluttering prayer flags. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys before descending gently to the village of Phanga, where your lodge awaits. This quieter section of the Everest trekking trail offers a peaceful atmosphere and a more remote Himalayan experience.

Distance: 12 km | Duration: 6 hrs | Ascent: +1014m | Descent: -412m

Today’s trek takes us to the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes, one of the most beautiful high-altitude lake systems in the Himalayas. The trail passes through Dragnag before crossing the dramatic Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. We then reach Gokyo village, a serene settlement on the shores of the turquoise lake. For those with extra energy, an optional hike up Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) rewards you with panoramic views of Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

(Overnight in a comfortable lodge with private toilets.)


Distance: 7.7 km | Duration: 4 hrs | Ascent: +580m | Descent: -300m
Optional Gokyo Ri climb: 3.8 km | +580m / -580m

This is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. A steep and steady climb leads us to the top of the Renjo La Pass (5,380 m), the highest point of our journey. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes far below. After soaking in the panorama, we descend carefully on a zigzagging trail toward Langden (4,370 m), where a cozy lodge awaits for much-needed rest.


Distance: 11.8 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs | Ascent: +650m | Descent: -1090m

We descend gradually along an ancient trans-Himalayan trade route, once used by Tibetan caravans carrying salt and wool to Namche Bazaar. The trail passes through Marulung village before reaching Thame (3,800 m), one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the Khumbu region. Here, we visit the historic Thame Monastery, beautifully perched on a hillside, and learn more about the spiritual traditions of the Sherpa people.

(Overnight in a comfortable lodge with private rooms, showers, and toilets.)

Distance: 9 km | Duration: 3 hrs | Ascent: +180m | Descent: -680m

Today’s trail is one of the most demanding yet rewarding sections of the trek. After leaving Thame, a challenging uphill climb leads us to the breathtaking Kongde ridge. From here, enjoy 360° panoramic views of the Everest region, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri. Few places offer such an unforgettable vantage point of the Khumbu Himalayas.

Distance: 11.5 km  Duration: 7–8 hours Ascent: +1,150 m   Descent: –800 m

(Overnight at the luxurious Yeti Mountain Home in Kongde, one of the highest comfort lodges in the Everest region.)

After a hearty breakfast with sweeping Himalayan views, begin your final descent from Kongde. The trail takes you down to Phakding, passing through charming Sherpa villages, before continuing on to Lukla. This marks the completion of your incredible Everest trek via Renjo La Pass and Kongde, a journey filled with unforgettable mountain panoramas and cultural encounters.

In Lukla, celebrate your trekking achievement with your Sherpa team and porters before tomorrow’s flight.


Distance: 16 km | Duration: 6 hrs | Ascent: +580m | Descent: -1800m

Begin your day with an early morning scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to the historic city of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient temples, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural heritage.

Check in to your hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore Bhaktapur at your own pace, relax in a local café, or stroll through the town’s enchanting squares. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and traditional charm of Nepal.

This morning, we discover the architectural treasures of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with history and culture. We then transfer to Patan, known as the “City of Fine Arts,” to admire its intricately carved temples and stunning Patan Durbar Square. In the afternoon, we make our way to Thamel, the lively tourist hub of Kathmandu. After checking into your hotel, the evening is free for last-minute souvenir shopping or to enjoy a final celebratory dinner to mark the end of your unforgettable Nepal journey.

Today, we’ll transfer you to Kathmandu Airport for your departure flight. As you prepare to board, take a quiet moment to reflect on the many wonders experienced during this unforgettable journey — from the towering Himalayan peaks to the warmth of the Nepali people.

Each smile shared, each breathtaking view, and each cultural encounter is a treasure you carry home. Let the unique spirit of Nepal linger in your heart, inspiring dreams of future adventures in faraway places.

Until we meet again — safe travels and may the road ahead be filled with discovery, joy, and new horizons.

What Included

Inclusions:

  • Domestic flights: Ramechhap–Lukla–Ramechhap
  • Airport and local transfers by private vehicle
  • 4 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Thamel)
  • 10 nights in trekking lodges with full board (meals included)
  • French-speaking guide, assistant guides, porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Rural Municipality)
  • 1 night at Yeti Mountain Home, Kongde
  • Guided tours of Bhaktapur and Patan with entrance fees and lunch

Not Included

Exclusions:

  • Meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu, except on the day of the visit to Bhaktapur and Patan.
  • Tips.
  • Entrance fees for sites (museums, monasteries, etc).
  • Drinks and personal extras.
  • Visa fees.
  • Insurance (repatriation, assistance, illness, accident, cancelation and interruption of the trip, loss or theft of luggage, rescue and evacuation costs).
  • Additional costs in case of helicopter transfer between Lukla and Kathmandu due to possible bad weather.
  • Personal belongings and medications.

Important: It is essential to subscribe to good insurance covering cancelation and mountain rescue fees.

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