The Gokyo Lake Trip is an alternative to the standard Everest Base Camp trek, offering lots of breathtaking Everest vistas as well as overnight accommodations in Namche Bazaar, the famous town that serves as the entrance to the Khumbu Region.
The trekker may still experience local village life, get a glimpse of ice rivers and rocky, glacier debris, see snow-capped mountains, and, of course, see the stunning blue waters of the Gokyo Lakes itself via the less-frequented path to the lakes.
The six lakes that make up the Gokyo Lakes are situated in the Gokyo Valley at an elevation of 4700 to 5000 meters. The Gokyo Valley is a part of the Sagarmatha National Park.
One of Nepal's most iconic vistas is the Gokyo Lakes' beautiful, spotless blue and green waters. At a height of almost 5,000 meters, they make up the world's highest system of freshwater lakes. For those who wish to trek in the Everest region but who want a wider range of vistas and fewer nights spent at extremely high altitudes, the Gokyo Lakes trip is the best option.
The lakes are the highest freshwater lake system in the world, have been recognized as a Ramsar site (wetlands of international importance), and are revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. If you need any more proof of the beauty and significance of this region, the Gokyo Valley is, in our opinion, the most magnificent in Khumbu. If you remain an extra day in the Gokyo Valley, you may see the fifth and sixth lakes, which are situated in a high alpine valley at the foot of Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest peak in the world.
The five oligotrophic freshwater lakes that make up the Gokyo lakes are the source of the Dudhkoshi river. The Dudh Koshi River, which is running quickly, has a wonderful appearance since it is milk-colored. The magnificent five lakes are Gyazumpa Cho (28 ha), Tanjung Cho (16.95 ha), Ngozumpa Cho, and Dudh Pokhari, the largest of the five Gokyo lakes, with a size of 42.9 hectares each (14.39ha). In addition to these, the Gokyo lake system includes several more lakes in this area. Many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims see Gokyo Lake as holy.
The Buddhist link to culture may be found across lake regions in the form of prayer flags, chortens, mani walls, stone walls, and more. You may visit the little Shiva and Vishnu temples that are located next to Gokyo Lake. In the Gokyo valley, there are a lot of prayer flags visible. Gokyo Lake offers spectacular scenery and weather, making it the ideal location for a once-in-a-lifetime photo session.
The Importance of Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Lakes is renowned for more than just its daring climbs and tourists; it also has a spiritual component. Both Hindus and Buddhists regard these lakes as highly sacred and significant religious sites. This location fills up with worshippers during the August Janai Purnima festival for the sacred bathing in the lakes. People revere this location as the home of the Nag Devata (Snake God). The site's main draw is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.
Gokyo valley trek Related Attractions for Tourists
At higher altitudes throughout the walk to the Gokyo Lakes, several tourist sites entice trekkers with their breathtaking vistas and attractions.
- Dudh Koshi
From higher heights in the Himalayan mountains comes the renowned river is known as the Dudh Koshi. The Dudh Koshi River flows as a result of the confluence of seven rivers. You may get magnificent views of Kumbhu Himal from this river. It's fascinating to go kayaking on the Dudh Koshi River.
- Namche Bazaar
It is an incredible location for shoppers and hikers. The picturesque views of the nearby mountains and the abundance of stores make this town the perfect destination for tourists.
You may get magnificent views of Kumbhu Himal from this river. It's fascinating to go kayaking on the Dudh Koshi River. Every item will be available for purchase by hikers. From here, you may see views of the Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other mountain ranges, as well as Mount Everest.
- Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park is a must-see location in the Solukhumbu area. The national park is 1,148 square kilometers in size and has an elevation range of 2,845 to 8,848 meters. Many endangered animals and 118 different bird species may be found in the park.
- Cho La Pass
It is located at a height of 5,420 meters and is the most difficult section of the entire climb. On your hike to the Gokyo Lakes, you will travel through a number of distinct communities. The well-known communities that surround the pass are Dzongla, Gokyo Valley, Machherma, and Thangnak.
- Gokyo Village
The highest populated region in the world is located in this little Himalayan town, which is 4,750 meters above sea level. Gokyo is the name given to the region's many cultures and customs. The majority of people living in this village are Buddhists and Hindus. You can only see the six Gokyo lakes from here.
- Gokyo Ri
After touring all six lakes, you really must go to Gokyo Ri. because Gokyo Ri, which has a height of 5,357 meters, is the tallest summit. From here, you may take in stunning vistas of mountain ranges that are at least 8,000 meters high. From here, one can view Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, which are the three highest peaks. Gokyo Ri is the best place to go if you want to see Mount Everest up close.
- Khumjung Village
You will encounter this settlement as you descend. Himalayan customs and traditions are highly well-liked in this town. You can largely interact with Tibetan culture in this village. This community has a few historical sites that are worth visiting.
