The hike to the peak of Gokyo Ri, which is 5357m above sea level, will leave you with an amazing view of the immense highland Himalayas and the peaceful highland wetlands. Gokyo Lakes, the wonder of five glaciated lakes, filled your heart with tranquility, as it sparked awe and transformed your senses.
Right at the end of the Everest region by the village of Gokyo and through the famous Renjo La and Chola passes, the ridge is an amazing view teasing the peaks and mountains with 6,257m of Ngozumpa Tse added on. Throughout your journey, prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic views of four towering 8,000m peaks: Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and the largest glacier in Nepal – Ngozumba, all these add an unprecedented experience to the trip.
Those who yearn for the great sky of blue color, as well as the white ground laying the peaceful water of Gokyo Lake, could go to the place to capture the autumn season view. On the other hand, for instance, if you wish to pass through trails and the decoration of those sights is done impressively by huge Rhododendrons, spring spreads majestically.
Join us on this magnificent adventure where for every step you take takes one step closer to nature. You will have a lifetime of memories to take home with you.
Gokyo Lake Trek Permits
If you are planning for the Gokyo Lake Trek you need to obtain the permit which is compulsory for all the trekkers. You need to obtain two permits for this trek, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. Permits will be checked once you enter the national park and Khumbu region.
You need to carry the permits all the time if you fail to show the permit while checking strict actions will be taken against you. If you are trekking with the trekking agencies then they will manage the permit on your behalf of you.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
This permit is required for all trekkers entering the Everest Region including the Gokyo Valley. You can obtain this permit from the office of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the entrance gate of the Sagarmatha National Park in Monjo.
- For foreign travelers it will cost: NPR. 3,000 (About USD 25) plus 13% VAT, per person
- For Nepali People it will cost: NPR. 100 (About USD 1) plus 13% VAT, per person
- For SAARC nationality it will cost: NPR. 1,500 (About USD 13)plus 13% VAT, per person
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
This permit is required for all trekkers entering the Khumbu Region including the Gokyo Valley. You can obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit after arriving in Lukla. If you arrive from Jiri or Salleri to the Khumbu region then you can obtain this permit in Monjo at the Sagarmatha National Park Counter.
- For foreign nations including SAARC nationality, it will cost: NPR. 2,500 per person (No VAT applicable) for the first four weeks.
- For more than four weeks it will cost: NPR. 2,500 per person (No VAT applicable)
Note: You cannot obtain this permit in Kathmandu.
Personal Documents That Are Required To Obtain Gokyo Lake Trekking Permits in Nepal
- A valid copy of your passport
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Your contact information
- Comprehensive travel and health insurance documents
- Details of your arrival and departure flights
Gokyo Lake Trek Peak Season
Spring Season(March to May)
The splendid view of Gokyo Lake appears in the season of spring, which is a great option for visitors as they can enjoy the spectacular beauty. These water lilies with their blossoms as decoration and the clear blue waters reflecting the clear skies made the whole atmosphere enchanting. By starting the trip in the Spring, you can saturate yourself fully in the enchanted wonder of Gokyo Lake which will remain an incredible memory for a lifetime.
During the day, temperatures around the Gokyo Lake areas sit comfortably between 10°C and 15°C. This is perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Though at night temperatures decrease to -7°C to -5°C and early mornings, you stay here with this fresh and crisp mountain, it is a hint to you that you have to be well prepared.
Autumn Season (September to November)
It is worth staying for autumn in Gokyo Valley. It isn’t as hot or cold, and clouds or fog screens don’t obscure the views. Plus, during this time, Nepal celebrates three big festivals: Dashain, Tihar (the Festival of Lights), and Chhath. The festivals account for lots of joy and enthusiasm in the country which will surely stimulate you to have more fun during the trekking.
During autumn, the day temperatures are roughly 15°C to 7°C, but you can expect to have frosty nights when the temperatures lower down to -1°C to -13°C, especially closer to the end of November. Therefore, start with putting on warm clothes. In Summary, autumn is the best season for nature watching, strolling, hiking, and visiting local colorful festivals in the Gokyo Valley.
Gokyo Lake Off-Season
Winter Season (December to February)
During the month of December to February, the weather becomes extremely cold and also we can expect less rainfall. Due to the heavy snowfall in the high-altitude areas the trail path is covered with snow and poor visibility can cause trouble for the trekkers.
During the day, temperatures typically range from around 5 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius, offering relatively cool conditions for trekking. However, at night and early morning, the temperatures can drop dramatically reaching as low as -1 degree Celsius or even lower.
Trekking in the winter is still possible for Gokyo Lake but you need to be well prepared, especially about the clothing stuff. If the weather is clear during the winter then the majestic view of the mountain is possible.
Monsoon Season (June to August)
During the monsoon, we can expect heavy rainfall in the months of June to July. The temperature during the day time is warmer but at night time the temperature drops below the freezing point at the high altitude.
Due to continuous rainfall, the chances of landslides, floods, and avalanches are higher. Also, leeches and mosquitoes can cause trouble while trekking. Even though many trekkers avoid this season with the right preparation it is still possible during this season.
Tips of Gokyo Lake Trek
- Trek during the Spring and Autumn seasons for the best view without obstruction
- Even though it’s not mandatory to hire a guide, we suggest you hire the guide and the porter to make your journey more adventurous.
- There is a chance of altitude sickness during the Gokyo Lake trek, so prepare well. Stay hydrated all the time, travel in groups and take enough days for acclimatization.
- Carry some Nepali currency in cash to ensure convenience during your trek.
- Don’t trek without a permit
- Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites
- Follow all the rules and regulations and have a safe and enjoyable experience
- Trek through the reputed trekking agency like us
- Respect the local culture and environment.
Final Say
Trekking in Gokyo Lake is one of the best destinations for natural and cultural beauty. The heavenly form of the Gokyo Lake will leave trekkers breathless in awe. Whether you are trekking in the Spring or the autumn season you must prepare in advance for the changing weather conditions. Only with the right plan and preparation, you will enjoy the beauty of this trek to the fullest.
If you want to secure the trek permit for the Gokyo Lake trek or wish to book this trek then we are here to assist you. Our dedicated team will ensure that your trekking journey will be smooth, comfortable, and memorable.
Posted on