Gokyo Lakes Trek 12 Days

Best Seasons for the Gokyo Lakes Trek

Spring (March-May)

Gokyo Lakes Trek is said to be one of the most spectacular seasons during spring. The weather in these months is mostly moderate with a clear sky and a pleasant temperature, thus trekking is comfortable even at the very high altitudes.

The blooming of rhododendron forests on the trail is perhaps one of the spring highlights and makes the Himalayan valleys red, pink, and white. The visibility is high making the trekkers have the magnificent panoramic views of the grand peaks including, Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.

Flora and fauna are also rich in spring, where one can see colorful Himalayan flowers and birds on the way. This is the ideal season in which photographers and nature lovers wish to experience the colorful scenery and beautiful landscape of Gokyo Valley.

Autumn (September-November)

The other best time to go on the Gokyo Lakes Trek is in the autumn. The skies are generally clear after the monsoon rains and this is where the Himalayan peaks stand out as one of the best all year round. The temperature in the day is cold and comfortable, and the nights are cold but tolerable for most of the trekkers. The tracks are also usually dry and easy to travel on making the probability of slips and landslides less threatening than in the season of the monsoons.

Even in the Autumn is said to be the most popular trekking season in Nepal and therefore tourists can experience vibrant trails along with the Sherpa villages in the area which are full of life. It is high time when one wants to see the mountain in its purest and cleanest form without any obstacles, which is the best time to take pictures and get familiar with the local culture and environment on the way.

Summer/Monsoon (June-August)

In Nepal, the summer is associated with the monsoon season and therefore hiking into Gokyo Lakes is not easy. The rainfall experienced during this season may cause the trails to be slippery and likely to landslide, thereby leading to safety hazards. The Himalayan mountains are frequently covered with a hazy mist, which prevents the scenic experience due to their frequent cloud cover. Also, the rivers are filled with rain and this complicates some of the crossings.

Although the scenery is green and rich, all the trekking within the monsoon season is a matter that requires being properly prepared, waterproof, and willing to encounter the unpredictability of the weather conditions. This is not a season that is usually favorable to beginner or intermediate trekkers.

Winter (December-February)

Gokyo Lakes can be reached in the winter by trekking but this is difficult. The temperatures may go down to way below the freezing point, particularly in higher altitudes, such that the trip is physically challenging. Trails may be snowed, which poses the threat of falls and the sluggishness of progress.

There are several lodges and tea houses in isolated locations which might shut down during winter and hence there cannot be too many choices in terms of accommodation and food. Nevertheless, in case of an experienced trekker who is fairly acclimated to extreme cold, winter is a quiet and undisturbed place, with snow-covered mountains and clear skies. This season is good when people want to be alone and have an adventure, however, he/she need good winter trekking equipment and experience in high-altitude operations.

Summary

Finally, Spring (March- May) and Autumn (September- November) seasons are the most convenient times to hike to Gokyo Lakes as the weather is usually fine, the skies are transparent, and the visibility is high. The seasons of monsoon and winter are not very conducive and there are heavy rains, snow and extreme coldness that trekkers find difficult to handle. The key element in heading to the Gokyo Valley is the selection of the ideal season to experience scenic beauty, safety, and the general experience of trekking.

Can a beginner join this trip?

Yes, beginners are also welcome to take part in the Gokyo Lakes Trek, but they need to be prepared and know the difficulties of the journey. Although the trek is mostly categorized as moderate, it consists of several hours of walking per day, up/down hill trails, and high altitude areas, and up to an altitude of more than 5,000 meters at the Gokyo Ri. This may be physically and mentally challenging to one who is new to trekking, and this is where preparation is important.

Health conditions are a significant factor in the comfort of a novice on the trek, as they are exposed to physical fitness. Ideally, the trekkers are expected to incorporation of cardio exercises, leg and core building exercises, and an increase in endurance during the months before the trek. And you should be used to long walks and a backpack, which will go a long way.

Also, first-time climbers ought to use the acclimatization days that are inherent in the trek, like Namche Bazaar and Machhermo, to help the body adapt slowly to the thinner air and minimize the occurrence of altitude sickness. Mental preparedness is also essential. The novice needs to be ready to walk in cold weather, in distant villages, where modern amenities are scarce, and the days are very long. It is important to exercise patience, have a positive attitude, and be able to pace oneself.

It is advisable that first-time climbers should be accompanied by the advanced mountaineering guides who will assist, keep track of the symptoms related to health and altitude as well as keep the climbers safe at all times. They can even have porters who can carry their hefty luggage to free up the beginners to use the energy saved to do the hiking.

Although the trek may be rigorous, with good preparation in terms of physical, mental as well as logistical requirements, one can successfully accomplish the Gokyo Lakes Trek and savor its amazing glory crystal clear glacial lakes, stunning Himalayan sights and peaceful Sherpa villages. Amateurs who will be absolute first timers should learn to listen to the body, not hurry, and inform the guide about any fatigue or discomfort as soon as possible. Good preparation and attitude can make even amateurs enjoy a safe and memorable experience on this famous trek in the Himalayas.

Gokyo Lakes Trek Altitude Sickness

Most trekkers Gokyo Lakes trek will start suffering from the most trekkers will experience is altitude sickness after 5,000+ meters of elevation. Trekker can expect extreme dizziness, a decrease in energy, headaches, and acclimatization, a slow increase in altitude, and knowledge of symptoms.

Guides are vigilant about monitoring trekkers, and actions are taken without delay should symptoms present themselves. Safety is always the primary concern.

Food, Drinks, and Accommodation

During the Gokyo Lakes Trek, one will sleep in lodges and teahouses. The trekking package includes three meals per day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and places an emphasis on safe, nutritious, and mostly vegetarian foods.

Snacks, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, and additional meals are to be paid for personally. Vegetarian meals are offered due to the food safety concerns at high altitudes.

Transportation for Gokyo Lakes Trek

All planned logistics for the Gokyo Lakes Trek 12 Days package are included in the price. This includes the domestic flight from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap) to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Not only do these flights save countless hours of trekking, but they also offer breathtaking views over the Himalayan mountains.

According to the itinerary, the package also includes private road transport with a driver for airport transfers and sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. Please remember that the package price does not include international flight tickets to and from Nepal. Visa fees are also not included and are paid on the spot at the airport.

Permits for the Gokyo Lakes Trek

Travelers need to obtain a few permits in order to trek in Nepal. This is also true for Gokyo Lakes Trek, which requires the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are standard permits, as the Gokyo Lakes fall inside the protected area of Sagarmatha National Park.

We handle all necessary permits for the Gokyo Lakes Trek prior to the commencement of the trek. The expense of the permits is included in the package price, therefore, there is nothing for trekkers to worry about. During the trek, trekkers need to keep the permits in a safe place, as there will be several checkpoints along the trail.

Trip Preparation and Fitness

The Gokyo Lakes Trek is rated as moderately difficult, however, the level of challenge is subjective and is better determined by one’s own physical and mental preparedness. There are several days of long walking and the trek is at high altitude, therefore, it is incredibly important to possess stamina and endurance.

Prior to the trip, trekkers should participate in some form of cardio exercise, hiking, and some strength training that focuses on the legs and the core. There is also a need to be able to strengthen the lungs, and this can be accomplished through some anaerobic and breathing exercises. If there are any serious health concerns or recent injuries, one is advised not to go.

The remote mountains, cold weather, and lack of accommodation can prove to be difficult. The trek is meant to be a challenge both physically and mentally, and a trekker’s attitude is of most importance. Patience and the ability to adapt will allow one to enjoy the trip more, as it will be a long one, over a span of twelve days.

Availability of Electricity and Internet

During the Gokyo Lakes Trek, trekkers will find themselves in the remote foothills of the Himalayas. Because of the remote nature of the trek, many of the villages trekkers will pass through may not have electricity or the internet. In some villages, trekkers may find charging stations powered by solar panels, though there may be a fee to use such services.

While the lodges on the trek do offer basic services such as meals, accommodation, and toilets, they also offer the ability to pay to use their electricity to charge devices like phones, cameras, and power banks. The availability and reliability of the internet also varies wildly throughout the trek and is often especially unreliable at higher altitudes.

Trekkers should bring additional power banks and batteries. Although Wi-Fi may be available at some locations for an additional charge, trekkers should not expect reliable electricity or internet access during the journey.

Additional Costs on the Gokyo Lakes Trek 12 days

Throughout the Gokyo Lakes Trek, trekkers will incur personal costs such as the purchase of snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and hot shower and any types of electricity devices charging services as well as the purchase of charging services and the payment of tips for the services of the guides and porters, which is done at the discretion of the trekker at the end of the trek.

Basic first-aid supplies will be available in case of minor injuries, but any additional services like evacuations via helicopters or hospitalization will be the trekker’s responsibility to pay for such services. Additionally, within the trek package, there is no inclusion of international airfare or visa costs.

Trekking to Gokyo Lakes and Travel Insurance

As a requirement for the Gokyo Lakes Trek, participants MUST acquire travel insurance. As this trek takes place at high altitudes, risks run high. Risks include altitude sickness, injuries, or delays caused by changing weather.

Participants must obtain travel insurance that includes coverage for costs incurred during emergency medical treatment, rescues, and helicopter evacuations for situations that occur above 5,000 meters. Coverage for accidents, illness, trip cancellations, misplaced or damaged bags, and trekking equipment are also a necessary part of the insurance.

During the trek, the experienced Sherpa guides will lead the trek, however, unforeseen accidents during the trek can happen, so make sure to acquire insurance that will cover the appropriate risks.

Trekker’s Daily Routine & Experiences During the Gokyo Lakes Trek

Trekkers are greeted on the Gokyo Lakes Trek with the serenity of the Himalayas firsthand. When the sun rises and the trekkers make their way outside, they are greeted with the beauty of the high peaks, with the first morning kettle boil and breakfast cooking. These moments transcend the meaning of a calm morning, and each trekker’s vibe for the day.

On most days after breakfast, between 7:00 and 8:00 am, they are expected to pack their bags, fill their bottles, and head up to the adventure that lies ahead. As most trekkers will tell you, the heart of the Khumbu region is where the trail lies. Trekkers get to experience and walk the varied trail of the region, with the most beautiful sceneries, where in the valleys they will even cross high rivers on suspension bridges, and from time to time they will even get to a flat stretch of trail.

For most of the 12 days of Gokyo Lakes Trek, trekkers get to walk for 4 to 5 hours, while for the days of ascent to Gokyo Ri and return to Namche Bazaar and Lukla, they are expected to walk for a bit more 6 to 7 hours. Trek guides make sure the trek is well paced, and in middle of each day they will rest for the long midday break for lunch, while giving time for each trekker to take photos, and for little conversations with the locals.

Each day, new experiences are had on the Gokyo Lakes Trek. The towering Himalayan peaks are seen from new angles, making the scenery feel ever-changing. Some days the trail is next to the turquoise waters of the Dudh Koshi River while other days it’s winding through ever-changing forests of fir, pine, and rhododendron. As the trek climbs higher and higher, the green foliage slowly gives way to rocky alpine landscapes, massive glaciers, and the breathtaking Gokyo Valley with its crystal-clear turquoise lakes.

Each evening is spent in Sherpa lodges, where trekkers can rest after a long day. Sitting around a warm stove in the dining hall, sharing stories, and freshly prepared meals and sometimes listening to music is a cozy way to end the day.

Variety of Trekking Routes to Gokyo Lakes

The classic Gokyo Lakes Trek is a timeless favourite Himalayan walk capturing the stunning beauty of Gokyo Valley and its sacred glacial lakes. It is perfect for trekkers who want something a little quieter and more scenic than the Everest Base Camp with its immense glacial lakes and spectacular mountains.

The hike is typically set at a moderate difficulty level which means it can be done by accepted fit individuals who possess some hiking experience. It should be noted that some adventurists might seek additional difficulty. Gokyo offers several extension options to track to additional prominent landmarks in the Everest region.

Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Lakes Trek

This is the Everest Base Camp Trek, one of the most popular trekking routes with combination of two of the most sought after trekking routes in Nepal, the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. This is most suitable for adventurous souls who yearn to indulge in the highly modeled Everest quicksand and in the Gokyo Valley tranquil scope.

Trekkers have the option to traverse the Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,644 m) first, passing through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, and thereafter proceed to Gokyo, or vice versa. This route is more challenging, rewarding the individuals with a legacy of the splendored Himalayas and with geodiversity.

Renjo La Pass with the Gokyo Lakes Trek

For the Gokyo Lakes Trek, there is yet another adventurous option, and that is to traverse the Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) as well. This Pass offers all-encompassing views of the other side of Gokyo Valley and after Gokyo lakes passes over the high mountain. This pass is one of the most coveted as it allows the trekker unobstructed views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

The trek can be difficult and strenuous, but it is within reach of most trekkers, and there is no need for advanced technical skills. The trek is best suited for those looking to gain experience in high altitudes with less challenging treks. The trek is best viewed as a preparation for the tougher treks in the Himalayas.

Most challenging Everest Three Passes Trek and Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo Lakes trek is the most challenging of the offered treks and is best suited for very experienced trekkers. Of particular note is the crossing of the three high passes, Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m) and Renjo La (5,360 m), as well as Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

These treks offer experience through all the various valleys, including Dudh Koshi, Imja Tse, Gokyo lake, and Bhote Koshi. Most companies offer both clockwise and counterclockwise rounds of the trek. Companies tend to favor the counterclockwise option for their clients.

Compared to other treks, the Gokyo Lakes trek can present real challenges. The trek itself is categorized as moderate, but the altitude, the resulting challenges of dropping and rising in elevation and the long days of consistent hiking can prove difficult for those who do not prepare well.

The more seasoned a trekker is the more remote and rugged conditions, including cold, difficult terrain, and a lack of modern amenities will add to the challenge. Ultimately, less experienced trekkers can find it truly challenging. Due to the risk of altitude sickness, the trek is not recommended for children, the elderly, or those with serious medical conditions.

When trekkers come prepared with enough training, positive attitude, and the tools necessary for proper acclimatization, they can expect to complete the trek easily and comfortably.

Final note

After detailed preparations to make sure all travel permits are in place, safe transportation is assured, and travel insurance is obtained, and Trek to Gokyo Lakes offers participants a highly organized trek to a truly wonderful part of the Himalayas with Hill Sherpa Trekking Team in Nepal.