# Gokyo Lakes Trek: The Complete Guide

_Published 28 July 2026_

The [Gokyo Lakes trek](/gokyo-lakes-trek) is a quieter alternative to Everest Base Camp, leading to a chain of turquoise lakes and the viewpoint of Gokyo Ri, one of the finest panoramas in the Himalaya.

**Quick answer:** the trek takes about **12–13 days** from Lukla. You walk via Namche Bazaar, Dole and Machhermo to **Gokyo** (about 4,790 m) beside the third lake, and climb **Gokyo Ri** (about 5,357 m) for views of **Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu**. It is a moderate to strenuous high-altitude trek.

## Highlights

- The six Gokyo Lakes, part of a Ramsar wetland site.
- The Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the longest in the Himalaya.
- Sunrise from Gokyo Ri.
- Optional walks to the fourth and fifth lakes.

## Typical itinerary

1. Fly to Lukla, walk to Phakding
2. Namche Bazaar, plus an acclimatisation day
3. Dole and Machhermo
4. Gokyo, with a climb of Gokyo Ri
5. Return via the same route, or cross the Cho La to Everest Base Camp

## Difficulty

Altitude is the main challenge; the gradual itinerary helps. See [Kala Patthar vs Gokyo Ri](/blog/kala-patthar-vs-gokyo-ri) and [Gokyo vs EBC](/blog/gokyo-lakes-vs-everest-base-camp).

## Best time

October–November and April–May.

## Frequently asked questions
### How long is the Gokyo Lakes trek?
About **12–13 days** from Lukla.

### How high is Gokyo Ri?
About **5,357 m**.

### Can I see Everest from Gokyo?
Yes, from Gokyo Ri.

### Can I combine Gokyo with EBC?
Yes, via the Cho La pass.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/gokyo-lakes-trek-guide