Gokyo Lake Trek with Helicopter Return 7 days

Daily Activities and Trekker Experiences on Gokyo Lakes Trek

On the Gokyo Lakes Trek, one will notice that the day begins early, usually around 6 or 7 AM. This is done to enjoy the beauty of the clear morning mountains and the fresh crisp air. After a fulfilling breakfast, the trekkers start walking at their own comfortable pace, ensuring that they have time to take breaks and enjoy the scenery, and take ample photos on the trail that stretches through Sherpa villages, forests, rivers, and open high-altitude valleys.

Trekkers usually enjoy tea, hot chocolate, or snacks at some of the small tea houses along the trail. After a long day on the trail, evening activities at the lodge include enjoying the warm hearty meals, sharing stories with fellow trekkers and guides, and most importantly, capturing the golden hour of the snow-covered mountains. Each day of the Gokyo Lakes Trek is characterized by special moments. Be it the early morning climb on Gokyo Ri or the silence by the turquoise Gokyo Lakes.

Different Routes to the Gokyo Lakes

Depending on the available time, fitness, and preferences, Gokyo Lakes can be reached in various ways. The most popular option is to trek via Namche Bazaar and follow the main Khumbu trail, which has the lodges and moderate daily distance.

Some trekkers merge Gokyo and Everest Base Camp treks into one long and challenging loop which is rewarding with outstanding views of both areas. For those needing time saving and extra comfort, a helicopter return from Gokyo to Kathmandu is an unforgettable option. Each of these trek options provides a perspective of different views of the mountains, glaciers, and Sherpa culture.

Challenges in Trekking to Gokyo Lakes

While the Gokyo Lakes Trek does have some challenges, it is even a little bit exciting to get the motor running. The challenge is primarily around elevation and whether or not daily treks can end up lasting four to seven hours on different types of terrain. The main challenges are elevation and weather of course. There are lodges and it is even fully marked out for trekkers to see. Most trekkers can complete the journey, and with some pacing and acclimatization, so that it can be done comfortably. Fast and Steep are some good ways to describe the trek up to Gokyo Ri.

Best Seasons for Gokyo Lakes Trek

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to go trekking to Gokyo Lakes. During autumn, the weather is stable, and the skies are clear, offering views of Everest and the surrounding mountains. In spring, the weather warms and the views are still stunning with the added bonus of blooming rhododendrons.

Trekking in winter can be risky since the trails can be covered in snow, and winter brings cold temperatures. In the monsoon (June to August), the trails are slippery and the rivers are swollen. Because of these factors, the best time to trek is autumn and spring for the best overall experience and safety.

Can a Beginner Join This Trip?

Beginners can absolutely do the Gokyo Lakes Trek, with preparatory fitness and a bit of commitment, of course. The trek is built for beginners sectioning the trek into manageable paces with accommodation in lodges. The trek is built with day breaks specifically for this feature, so other trekkers can walk up to the designated altitudes. Suitable cold weather gear brings safety, and a positive attitude aids in the experience. With some preparatory walking or hiking, first time trekkers can enjoy this adventure fully.

About altitude sickness

When trekking to Gokyo Lakes, one of the many concerns is altitude sickness. It becomes a concern above 3,000-4,000 meters and includes headaches, nausea, and even breathing difficulties. To prevent getting altitude sickness, each trekker should go at their own and friends’ slow and staggered paces, drink a lot of water, and take acclimatization days (like the days spent in Namche Bazaar and Machermo).

What is most important is to take altitude sickness symptoms seriously, as these are the only things to take seriously at this point in the trek. If symptoms worsen, the only sure remedy is to descend. Guides are always going to be prepared for this, as they are trained to recognize the symptoms in their trekkers, so they are always going to help minimize these types of concerns.

Accommodation, Food and Drink during the Gokyo Lakes trek

The accommodation on the trail consists of small lodges which are just as comfortable. The only thing they might charge you extra for is hot showers, and you can always buy extra things like food. The food on the trail consists of traditional meals which can include dal bhat (a meal consisting of rice and lentils), momo (some types of dumplings), and lentil soup. There are going to be extra treats like candy, and hot drinks like hot chocolate or hot coffee.

Although you should always bring extra food like energy bars for yourself, as you are going to be hungrier as the altitude increases. The water on the trail is going to be safe to drink, but at the higher elevations, you have to buy it bottled.

Transportation for Gokyo Lakes Trek

Travel to the trek can be by small plane or helicopter to Lukla. Most trekkers fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and enjoy the breathtaking 30 to 40 minute flight. Once on the trail, there is no option other than walking, although porters or yaks can be used to carry heavier bags. For the return flight, there is the option of a helicopter from Gokyo to Kathmandu for those who wish to save time and have a spectacular view of the Himalayas. This combination of walking and other means of transport makes the trek both challenging and exciting.

Permit for the Gokyo Lakes Trek

Permits are necessary for the Gokyo Lakes Trek. These include the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the entrance of the park. In order to save time, most guides do the paperwork for you. The purpose of the permits is to make sure trekkers are accounted for to active park conservation efforts to keep the Himalayas pristine.

Trip Preparation and Fitness

The Gokyo Lakes Trek requires commitment and preparation. Participants should focus on cardio, walking, and stair climbing for 4–6 weeks leading up to the trek. Ideally, trekkers should take long walks with a fully packed backpack. Trekking is also a mental challenge. Expect early starts, long walking days, and the ever-present cold. Altitude will also be a factor, so find some patience and focus. Walking with a well-fitted pack will be complemented by trekking poles. Warm layers will be needed.

Electricity and Internet

Most lodges offer the ability to charge phones all day, but there is a fee. The Internet is also available, but it is typically slow and spotty at elevation. Trekkers should be prepared with a phone charger, empty power banks, and a charging box. Adapters are helpful to charge at lodges with standard outlets. It might be a good thing that the internet is a little spotty, as disconnecting from the world will help you appreciate the trekking more and fully take in the views.

Additional Costs on the Gokyo Lakes Trek

Trekking in the Gokyo Lakes region involves additional costs, including drinks, snacks, tea, coffee, laundry, bottled water, guides and porters tips, and hot showers if opted. You may also want to budget for souvenirs, small gear for trekking, and laundry. As there are no ATMs on the trail, it is important to carry cash. Extra money allows for comfort and flexibility on the trail.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants of the Gokyo Lakes Trek prior to their departure. This covers you against any unexpected incidents like falling, injuries, altitude sickness, or any emergencies that might force the evacuation through the use of a helicopter.

Although the expedition is mostly secure and our professional Sherpa leaders will be on 24 hours watch, accidents and emergencies may still occur in the mountains. This insurance is supposed to include medical care, accidents, and high-altitude rescue (more than 5,000 meters) and issues concerning trips, such as lost baggage or cancellations.

Proper coverage is the guaranty of peace of mind, fast access to medical care, and coverage of all risks related to high-altitude trekking.