Gokyo Lake Group Trek

There are plenty of places where you can go on a group trek. But nothing beats the beauty of a journey where you can get both adventure and spiritual experience. The Gokyo Lake Group Trek is very popular and one of the highly preferred treks by trekkers from all over the world.

Gokyo Lake Group Trek includes many trekkers in a single group who may be from the group that you bring to the trek or one that has been set by the trekking agency. Either way, trekking in a group to Gokyo Lake is a very wise decision.

From breathtaking views of the mountains to the religiously significant Gokyo Lake, trekkers will find aesthetic elements in every other aspect of this trek. Gokyo Lake is not only popular among trekkers but also among pilgrims. This makes it all the more suitable for more than just one type of trekker.

In this article, we have mentioned everything you need to keep in mind before you go to the Gokyo Lake Group Trek. Make sure to read till the end!

Overview of Gokyo Lake Group Trek

Gokyo Lake Group Trek is known as the alternative to Everest Base Camp Group Trek. You don’t have to spend too much time roaming through the trails of this trek for several days or weeks like you do in the EBC trek. In fact, this is a short trek that will give you a similar essence to that of the journey to Everest Base Camp.

This group trek includes the involvement of anyone who wants to witness snowy peaks, turquoise lakes, local villages with unique cultures, and overall to make a memory of a lifetime. Trekkers won’t have to spend too much effort in completing this trek because of the ease in comparison to other treks.

The Gokyo Lake is made up of six lakes. Hence, you can explore the beauty of this natural water source with your eyes while also being able to learn stories about the lake’s formation from the locals, fellow trekkers, and your guide.

Since there will be plenty of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims on the trails heading towards the same destination as you, it would be fair to consider your trek a holy pilgrimage as well. Along with the unique culture of the locals here, you can also find out more about the religion followed by a large number of people in Nepal as well as by those who come from foreign countries.

Along with the sight of tall Mount Everest, trekkers will also be able to view the beautiful view of Mount Cho Oyu, which is the sixth-highest mountain in Nepal. You will get a view of this peak.
Lhotse and Makalu are two other mountains whose views you can enjoy on your trek. The journey will start and end in Khumbu. Hence, you can also go to major other locations that have amassed popularity in the mountaineering community.

Another highlight of your trek will be a visit to the Gokyo Valley and Namche Bazaar, two locations that are the end destinations for treks for many visitors. The first person to climb Mount Everest Sir Edmund Hilary, who was with Tenzing Norgay Sherpa during the success, had set up a school in Khumjung Village. This village will be a part of your trek.

Overall, you will find yourself amid transitions between the bustling local lifestyle and peaceful spots where much can be found, both from the point of view of an adventurer and from the point of view of spirituality.

Highlights of Gokyo Lake Group Trek

As aforementioned, there is more than just a highlight of the Gokyo Lake Group Trek. This trek specializes in several aspects, among which the following are the top ones:

Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo Lake Group Trek, as the name suggests, will have the most spectacular highlight in the form of six lakes that form the Gokyo Lake. The lake is going to be your primary destination and is going to take you to the ever-sparkling and bright lake.

This lake is perfect for anyone who is seeking peace of mind in their day-to-day busy lives. Even though the trails to the lake and even the end destination are almost always occupied by visitors, there will be serenity in every footstep.

The Gokyo Lakes are just as amazing of a location to take good pictures.

Gokyo Ri

Gokyo ri is the location from where you can see up close all the peaks that are counted as prominent ones in Nepal. These peaks include Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Makalu, and Mount Cho Oyu.

The panoramic view is one that you cannot find anywhere else. From the chilly waves of wind hitting your face most pleasantly to the sight that you cannot otherwise find in another trekking destination, you will experience it all.

Ngozumpa Glacier

The Ngozumpa glacier is the largest in Nepal. Khumbu region is very popular for its fascinating glaciers among which Ngozumpa is the most famous one. The glacier looks beautiful throughout the day and through all seasons.

Trekkers can find themselves falling in love with the natural beauty of the Khumbu region as they move to and from the Ngozumpa glacier. It adds to the aesthetic value of your trek and it also makes your journey more adventurous.

Sherpa Culture

The Khumbu region is the habitat of the Sherpa people. Hence, you will be able to experience the Sherpa culture, especially in the Upper Khumbu, during the Gokyo Lake Group Trek. The Gokyo Lake Group Trek will help you know the authenticity of the traditions that the Sherpa people have followed for almost a century.

From the food to the clothes they wear, the house they live in, and the festivals they celebrate, the Sherpa people will be an excellent subject for knowledge and a unique journey.

Fauna Diversity

Wildlife that is rare, even in Nepal, can be found in the Himalayas. Therefore, you will be able to witness a few such faunas during your Gokyo Lake Group Trek. Some of the most popular animals and birds to find in the Gokyo Lake Group Trek are the Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, Himalayan Monal, Himalayan Bear, Great Rosefinch, Northern Nutcracker, etc.

These animals and birds make it best for trekkers to take unique pictures on their way to and from the destination. It additionally adds to the charm of the Gokyo Lake Group Trek.

Limited Crowd

While we have mentioned that there will be a good amount of visitors on your way to Gokyo Lake, you won’t find as many trekkers on your way during this trek as you do on other treks in Nepal.

The limited crowd on the trails and even the destination makes your journey smooth and hassle-free. For many trekkers, peace and serenity is a big deal. If you are one such trekker, then you will appreciate the lack of heavy crowds during the Gokyo Lake Group Trek.

Moreover, since you will be trekking in a group, you will not find yourself lonesome either. This way, trekkers usually get the best of both worlds. Even when you trek on a peak season, the crowd won’t be a bothersome factor for you.

Scenery From Beginning To End

The trekkers will get the chance to see the most beautiful mountains, lakes, villages, and dramatic landscapes in general. From the time your journey starts to the time it ends, you will be enthralled by the components of your trek.

Gokyo Lake Group Trek specializes in beauty of all kinds. Besides the visual aspects, exploring the smaller elements like religious sites on the way, houses of all sorts, etc. can be educational as well as interesting.

Gokyo Lake Group Trek Itinerary

The overall itinerary is going to be 11 days. Within less than a week, trekkers will be shocked at the many factors they can enjoy during a single trek. The Gokyo Lake Group Trek is also suitable for beginners as they won’t have to spend too much time in the mountains.

With Above The Himalayas, you get to go on a structured journey from one end to another. The following is the detailed itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

You will arrive in Kathmandu on the first day by flight. Every trekker from the Gokyo Lake Trek Group will be picked up from the airport itself. This day is going to be one where you relax and refresh from the jetlag.

You will be dropped off at the hotel in Kathmandu. You can choose to go on a stroll in the evening through the streets and alleys of the capital city if you wish. Most trekkers tend to take this time to prepare for the trek that starts from the very next day.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla. Lukla to Phakding

The second day includes going to Lukla from Kathmandu. This day is going to be a bit hectic given all the physical and mental readiness you’ll need. You will either go by the road or catch a flight to Lukla.

If you are looking to save time, then it would be best to opt for a flight to Lukla though the cost for a ticket is going to be slightly more expensive. Likewise, once you’ve landed at Lukla, you will take some time to explore Lukla before heading towards Phakding.

Phakding is a great trekking location and will give you the very first proper glimpse of the Khumbu region after having crossed Lukla. Phakding village is located in the Lower part of Khumbu and has many houses, which gives you a glimpse of the Sherpa lifestyle in the Himalayas.

Once you have reached a teahouse in Phakding, you will finally be able to stay a night there.

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar

The third day will start at Phakding. After having a hearty breakfast in the teahouse, you will head towards Namche Bazaar, another amazing landmark in Khumbu. The journey will start from a quieter place and shift towards a fairly busy marketplace.

Namche Bazaar is the biggest marketplace of Khumbu and the main trading spot for traders in the region. It is also the main place from where a trekker will be headed towards Lhasa. Namche Bazaar has many facilities and amenities that are not available in most other locations
in the Gokyo Lake Group Trek.

After reaching Namche Bazaar, trekkers can move to their respective teahouses and get plenty of rest after having trekked for a few hours. The pace of the trekkers decides the time taken to reach Phakding to Namche Bazaar. You will spend a night at the latter location.

Day 4: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

You will spend all of the fourth day acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar. Acclimatization is mandatory for trekkers. It takes you lots of effort to climb an altitude anyways and changing altitude can bring significant changes in your body as well.

To avoid suffocation and sickness along the way, you need to acclimatize. Namche Bazaar is the perfect spot for rest and acclimatization. It has all the facilities and shops for you to prepare for the trekking days to come.

You can go on a hike to locations closer to your teahouse. However, this is completely optional. Trekkers can spend a whole day embracing the view of the surroundings as well. After having spent a day at Namche Bazaar, you will spend a night in the hotel or the teahouse.

Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Dole

Trekkers will be bidding their goodbye to the popular marketplace of Namche Bazaar and go to Dole on the fifth day of their Gokyo Lake Group Trek. Dole lies in the Dudh Koshi River. The trekkers will hence get an opportunity to go through the waterways and roam the village during the trek.

Dole is a famous trekking stop for trekkers who are going to both Gokyo Lake as well as Everest Base Camp. The village has adequate facilities to accommodate and give the trekkers convenience.

Once you have reached the teahouse, you can rest and have your dinner. Lastly, you will spend the night in Dole itself.

Day 6: Dole to Machhermo

Machhermo is the closest location to Dole and is another popular stop for trekkers going to Gokyo Lake. From Dole, you will walk for a few hours until you reach Machhermo. The trail will be full of amazing sights of the peaks which will all get closer as you move higher.

Machhermo Glacier is another great sight to witness during this journey. You can get to learn about the local lifestyle as well as see the most of nature here. Trekkers will spend a night at a teahouse here.

Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo

Finally, on the seventh day, trekkers will be able to go to Gokyo. On this day, you will not only get to visit the Gokyo lakes but also go on a short hike to Gokyo Ri. Though the day may seem tiresome on the surface level, you will comfortably trek through the trails until you finally reach Gokyo.

Gokyo is not only a lake but a village as well. From local habitats to natural richness, Gokyo will be worth your while. You can learn about Gokyo Lake, its origin, and more about its location from your trek guide.

On the same day, you can take a few more hours off your day to hike to Gokyo Ri which is all about great scenery. The view of the mountains from this location is unbeatable. You won’t see a better view of the peaks from any other location than from Gokyo Ri.

Once you have completed your hike and tour in Gokyo, you will return to the teahouse in the village itself. You will spend a night here.

Day 8: Gokyo to Machhermo

After having rounded Gokyo, you will be made to return to Machhermo. If you have not experienced the beauty of the trails in the rush of moving to your destination, this will be your day to re-explore Machhermo.

Descending from Gokyo to Machhermo is going to take less time. You will spend a night here.

Day 9: Machhermo to Namche Bazaar

Trekkers can now go from Machhermo back to Namche Bazaar. Unlike ascending, going downhill won’t take as much effort. You will find yourself reaching one spot from another faster than you had started.

You will spend the night at Namche Bazaar.

Day 10: Namche Bazaar to Lukla

You won’t acclimatize in Namche Bazaar on the tenth day of your Gokyo Lake Group Trek because your body can adjust to the decreased altitude. The pathway backwards will be familiar, making your return to Lukla easier than before.

Trekkers will spend a night at Lukla.

Day 11: Lukla to Kathmandu

On the eleventh day, you will finally return to Kathmandu from Lukla. Since you can directly move from Lukla to the capital city, there won’t be a need for you to trek on this day. You will either be picked up by a jeep or can catch a flight back.

Upon return, you can rest in your hotel room. If time allows, an evening stroll around Kathmandu can be made possible.

Day 12: Final Departure

Lastly, your trek will have commenced by this day. Trekkers can now pack their bags and reminisce on the memorable trek they had recently completed.

By this day, it is necessary to remember the milestones you have accomplished with your group.
Trekkers will return home with an experience of a lifetime. Additionally, you will be picked up from your hotel and dropped off at the airport on time!

Religious Story And Significance of Gokyo Lake

Gokyo Lake has a great religious significance which is also the reason why there are almost as many pilgrims as trekkers. The lake is considered an abode of Naag Devta (snake god), who is also worshipped by Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva temple nearby.

The lake has always been treated in a holy manner concerning its significance. Furthermore, Buddhist and Hindu worshippers can be seen commonly in the location. Both Lord Vishny and Lord Shiva are known to protect the wildlife.

And, Naag Devta, being a part of the wildlife, is known to keep the traditional protection of the wildlife in the area intact for more than a millennium. Aside from the belief of it being protected religiously, Gokyo Lake is also protected by the conservation authority in the Khumbu region.

Tourists are always encouraged to implement the best practices for eco-benefits and conservation of the surroundings of Gokyo Lake.

The Difficulty of the Gokyo Lake Group Trek

The Gokyo Lake Group Trek is considered to have the same difficulty level as that of the Everest Base Camp Trek. Though you won’t have to spend as much time on the trails during this journey, you have to be mindful of your physical and mental well-being before getting started.

Gokyo Lake is a great destination for trekkers who have not trekked before but are willing to take on an adventure they never had. Not everyone will be able to complete the Gokyo Lake Group Trek.

Trekkers have to be physically in a fit shape and have trained their legs properly. Your legs will be your main support throughout this journey because you will be required to trek for 6 to 7 consecutive hours except the day you acclimatize at Namche Bazaar.

Apart from this, not stretching the trek makes it a tad bit easier than the Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek, likewise, is not technical and can be completed without too many gears and equipment.

For a successful trek, it is suggested that the trekkers move at a slower pace. The faster you try to complete your trek, the more there will be a likelihood of suffocating and breathlessness. You can keep danger at bay by always sticking with your group.

Your trekking guide will be a great company to keep you away from dangerous situations as well. Because the Gokyo Lake Group Trek will be completed in a group, the risks and dangers are always lesser.

Food & drink in Gokyo Lake Group Trek

The food and drink in Gokyo Lake Group Trek has become better than ever. With growing popularity in treks, the food and drink are of good quality as there is an increased need to cater to the trekkers.

You will mostly get traditional food in the routes as there isn’t as much access to the marketplace outside. Besides, tasting the food made with ingredients that are both organic and a blend of traditions passed down generations can be authentically tasteful.

Also, trekkers usually love the taste of daal, bhaat, tarkari, meat curry, and pickles that are always cooked at the teahouses. This food is a staple diet of Nepalese people and usually works to become an energizing diet for trekkers as well.

Junk food and packaged food might not be readily available everywhere you go. While Namche Bazaar may have shops that cater to such needs, you will have to carry a stock by yourself if you want a quick munch now and then during your trek.

The food cost depends on what you eat. You usually have to spend more than $35 to $45 on a day of meal. And, every other meal will be filling regardless of how tired and hungry you are from your journey. The hygiene of making food is just as decent.

If you want to enjoy Western delicacies, you can get access to such cuisine at a few hotels along the way. Though rural, the taste of the food does not disappoint. The amount you pay for these delicacies may be a little more than what you would pay for traditional Nepalese food.

Many tea houses along the trails do not allow food from outside. So, even if you are going to grab a quick snack along the way, make sure to keep the food outside your accommodation. Also, trekkers are required to eat inside the teahouse or hotel they are staying in.

Accommodation in Gokyo Lake Group Trek

In the past, there had been a notion among trekkers that teahouses in Nepal are going to have the least amount of facilities and the amenities not as comforting. However, times have changed.

You are going to find more than just the basic bed, table, and food in an accommodation through your trails to Gokyo. Trekkers will be provided with charging facilities and internet
service as well. These facilities usually cost up to $10.

Other than this, the beds in your room are well-kept. The teahouses pay extra attention to keeping the bedding and the bathrooms as clean as possible. Trekkers won’t find themselves in situations where they will have to compromise their comfort and hygiene.

Each bedroom will have good ventilation and a window to give you the most amazing sight of the mountains outside. Many trekkers also carry an extra pillow or a thin blanket for comfort and cleanliness concerns. This choice is completely fair as well.

Most of the tea houses in the trails are not very big. But, they adequately fit and accommodate group trekkers without an issue. Prebookings may be made possible if you get in touch with the trekking agency on time.

The accommodation is usually crowded during peak seasons. That’s why making end-minute bookings or only booking when you reach the site may not be suitable.

Transportation for Gokyo Lake Group Trek

Trekkers have more than a single choice of transportation. You don’t always have to travel by bus in contrast to what you may think of going to rural regions like Khumbu. Instead, you can opt for a flight or a Jeep.

Booking a taxi to travel from Kathmandu can be very costly. It is best to settle for a flight if you want extra comfort and to save time. The bus is possibly the cheapest mode of transportation. But, a drawback of travelling by bus is that the time taken is often longer.

Travelling by flight can be a little expensive in comparison but is very convenient. Jeep is also convenient. It takes longer for you to travel by jeep than by flight since you will be traveling by road. But, a jeep also takes a shorter time to reach your destination than a bus.

Packing List for Gokyo Lake Group Trek

Packing properly for your Gokyo Lake Group Trek is very important. Trekkers find it very confusing as to what to carry and what not to carry.

The following is a list of all the things you need to pack before going to the Gokyo Lake Group
Trek:

● Duffel bag
● Down Jacket
● Thermal jacket
● Thermal top and pants
● Waterproof trekking pants
● Cotton underwear
● Trekking shoes
● Gloves
● Loose Socks
● Thermal flask
● Water bottle
● Water purifying tablets
● Energy bars
● Journals, Camera, and Books

Why Trek in A Group When You Are Going To Gokyo Lake Group Trek

The Gokyo Lake Group Trek can be a great trekking experience for all the trekkers, more so because you will be trekking in a group. There are more pros than cons when it comes to group trekking. The Gokyo Lake Group Trek won’t be an exception.

You will encounter a few difficulties here and there when you go to Gokyo Lake. Even though these difficulties are not going to be major, you will have a more challenging time when you are solo trekking than if you are trekking in a group.

The following are some reasons why you should trek in a group when you are going to Gokyo Lake Group Trek:

Joint Experience

Exploring places alone can be therapeutic but when you are in a group, you will get to experience a lot more things. A trekker in a group will get to know about people and places more with the help of interactions and collective learning.

You will not have to bore yourself throughout the twelve-day-long trek either. A trekker will always be by your side. If there are any questions or difficulties along the way, then fellow trekkers as well as the guide in your group will be there to lend their support.

Safety

Trekking in a group is very safe. You will not find as much safety any other way than you will when you are trekking in a group. Guides will be there for you to help you if you have any difficulties health-wise or with relation to the trails.

When you are trekking solo and need group help, in case of sudden health complications or mental challenges, you usually have to return to ensure safety. You don’t have to worry about this when you are trekking in a group.

Further, trekkers only have to take care of themselves and their belongings. In case of a threat, a group can be intimidating, even for invaders. All these reasons make group trekking very safe for all the trekkers.

Knowledge Exchange

Along with the opportunity to learn more about fellow trekkers, you will also get the chance to learn about the past experiences of trekkers and guides in a group trek. Knowledge exchanges are often entertaining when you are in a group.

Gokyo Lake Group Trek will require the trekkers to get lots of knowledge in every step they take. For this, the trekkers cannot only rely on the knowledge they’ve gotten from the internet and other secondary resources.

When you interact with people who have more knowledge on a certain trail, you always are at an advantage. This also makes your trek interesting. And, interacting with the locals in a group can also seem less triggering to social anxiety.

Budget Friendly

Trekkers can cut their costs when they are trekking through the trails of Gokyo Lake. When you are in a group, you don’t have to pay as much because the needs are covered together by all the trekkers involved.

You can also divide your cost on guides, transportation, rooms, etc. Trekking in a group requires all the trekkers to make joint decisions. This may be a bit difficult for many trekkers, but making adjustments along the way can be very pocket-friendly in the long run.

Constant Motivation

Solo trekkers may face difficulty when they are trekking as they reach higher altitudes. Even the best trekkers tend to feel demotivated after feeling tired throughout the trip. This is almost never the case in group treks.

Seeing another trekker move towards their goals keeps a healthy competition among trekkers.
The trekkers will push themselves to their fullest limits and complete the Gokyo Lake Group Trek without feeling demotivated.

Planned Itinerary

A major highlight of group treks going to Gokyo Lake is that you will rely on a planned itinerary. The route to Gokyo Lake may confuse any trekkers. You cannot depend on your instincts solely when you are in a rural location, which is just as challenging as it is dangerous.

You don’t have to even slightly worry about not going through a planned itinerary when you are on the Gokyo Lake Group Trek. Trekking in a group is simpler as you won’t find yourself in an endless puzzle of routes.

Even when you lose track of the trails, there will always be a guide or a fellow trekker who will help you out of the situation. On top of this, you can always carry a map to make your journey along with your group all the more simple and quicker.

Eco-Friendly

Solo trekkers are often seen to be less mindful than those trekking in a group. This is a generalized fact, but common as well. When you trek in a group, you tend to promote eco-friendly ways.

Group trekkers try to avoid as many malpractices on their way to the destination as they can. And, the trekkers who are not willing to follow the rules are often guided by other trekkers to do the right thing.

When you are trekking with the help of a good trekking agency, you will be made to follow the rules and be made aware of the regulations of your destination before your journey even starts. This all makes it simpler for trekkers to avoid difficulties and trouble with the authorities.

Culture Learning

Trekkers can learn about trekkers and their backgrounds during their journey to the Gokyo Lake Group Trek. Interactions are made fun of when you share about your culture. Languages, traditions, and mannerisms can be exchanged.

Doing this also helps in fostering a sense of unity and friendliness among trekkers. When you do this, you will find yourself trekking at a faster pace. Interactions that keep you occupied will allow you to keep away from a troubled and fearful mind as well.

What Does Your Gokyo Lake Group Trek Package Include?

The Gokyo Lake Group Trek package includes the following. Anything that’s not listed in the following may not be included in the package (Be sure to contact our trek moderator for detailed information):

● Hotel stay before and after the trek
● Airport pick up and drop off
● Flights
● TIMS fees
● National park tickets
● Qualified local guide
● Teahouse accommodation
● Emergency Oxygen● First aid kit
● Transportation facility

It is important for the trekkers to remember that you will have to pay for your personal expenses by yourself. Any costs incurred along the way outside of what is offered in the package will not be billed or covered by the agency.

We can, however, always help you find the best facilities and materials for your convenience through guided and dependable suggestions and support.

Conclusion

Trekking to Gokyo Lake in a group will be a big accomplishment for every trekker. Going among the mountains and seeing the ever-sparkling Gokyo Lake amid the peaks won’t be less than a dream for all the trekkers.

It would help if you kept in mind that this trek will be memorable not only for a few years but for several years to come. Lastly, be sure to consult with a physician, get in touch with us, train properly both physically and mentally, and learn the ethics of Khumbu a while before starting your expedition.