The Group Joining Gokyo Lakes Trek is a 13-day scheduled departure to the Gokyo valley in the Everest region. You join an existing group, walk beside the Ngozumpa Glacier to a chain of turquoise lakes, and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for a wide view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu.
Group Joining Gokyo Lakes Trek highlights
- Fixed group departures with a shared guide and shared costs.
- The Gokyo lakes, beside the village of Gokyo at 4,790 m.
- Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region.
- Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, with a full acclimatisation day.
- Quieter trails than the main Everest Base Camp route for much of the walk.
How joining a group works
Send an enquiry with your preferred month. The Thamel office confirms the departure, the group size and what is included, and gives you the current price. The route matches our private Gokyo Lakes Trek.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Airport transfer to your hotel and a trek briefing.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding
A scenic flight to Lukla, then a gentle walk along the Dudh Koshi River.
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,446 m)
About 6 hours. Overnight in a mountain lodge.
Day 4: Acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar
Excursion to Namche Bazaar and Syangboche.
Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,200 m)
Climb into the Gokyo valley.
Day 6: Dole to Machchhermo (4,470 m)
About 4 hours of walking.
Day 7: Machchhermo to Gokyo (4,790 m)
About 5 hours, reaching the first of the Gokyo lakes.
Day 8: Gokyo Lakes excursion and Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
Explore the lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for the view.
Day 9: Gokyo to Dole (4,200 m)
About 5 hours down the valley.
Day 10: Dole to Namche Bazaar (3,446 m)
About 5 hours.
Day 11: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m)
About 3 hours of walking.
Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu
The rest of the day is free. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Departure
Transfer to Kathmandu airport for your onward journey.
What is included
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu on arrival and departure.
- Hotel in Kathmandu and teahouse or lodge lodging on the trek.
- Meals on the trek, plus tea or coffee.
- Trekking permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit.
- Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla.
- An experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porter service for your main bag.
- A medical kit and emergency helicopter evacuation arrangements.
What is not included
- International flights and your Nepal visa.
- Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation, which is required.
- Personal items, drinks, hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi, laundry and tips.
FAQs
How do I join the Gokyo Lakes group trek?
Send an enquiry with your preferred month. The Thamel office replies with the available departures, the group size and the current price.
Is the Gokyo trek easier than Everest Base Camp?
It is similar in difficulty. Gokyo Ri is at 5,357 metres and the route has several nights above 4,000 metres, so acclimatisation matters just as much.
When is the best time for the Gokyo Lakes trek?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) give the clearest views and the most stable weather.
Can I join as a solo traveller?
Yes. Solo travellers are welcome and meet the group in Kathmandu before the trek.
Can I combine Gokyo with Everest Base Camp?
Yes, but it is a longer trip. Our Everest Three High Passes Trek links the two valleys, or ask the office about a custom itinerary.