Distance Between the Places During Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek
The Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek spans approximately 135 kilometers over 17 days, with 12 dedicated to trekking. The route begins with a thrilling mountain flight to Lukla, followed by a gentle introduction to Sherpa villages and alpine valleys. As you move deeper into the Khumbu region, you gradually leave behind the crowded EBC trail and take the lesser-trodden path to Dole, Machhermo, and eventually the glacial basin of Gokyo Valley. The series of emerald lakes here are sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, and their untouched beauty makes a lasting impact.
Climbing Gokyo Ri is the trek’s visual highlight, offering panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, all four of the six tallest mountains in the world. After conquering Chola Pass, you merge back with the Everest Base Camp trail and get a taste of that legendary route by visiting Everest Base Camp and the famous Kala Patthar. Each day offers a unique experience, blending Himalayan nature, high-altitude terrain, and spiritual immersion in the land of the Sherpas.
Elevation and Major Highlights on Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek
The Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek elevation profile ranges from 1,400 meters in Kathmandu to a maximum of 5,644 meters at Kala Patthar. The initial trek days involve a gradual ascent from Lukla (2,860 m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), giving your body time to adjust. From there, the trail veers off to Gokyo Valley, peaking at Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), the best viewpoint of Everest and surrounding 8,000-meter giants.
One of the major challenges of this trek is the Chola Pass, which stands at 5,420 meters and involves icy, steep sections that demand caution and stamina. Following that, the trek descends slightly to Dzongla and reconnects with the Everest Base Camp trail, eventually leading to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,644 m), the trek’s highest point. This entire altitude profile is designed with high-mountain safety in mind, ensuring climbers gain elevation steadily with ample rest days.
Daily Distances Hiked During the Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek
Let’s break down the Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek distance and altitude across each day, giving you a clear picture of how the journey unfolds on foot.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,594 ft
After arriving in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the city’s cultural and backpacker hub. This day is reserved for relaxation, last-minute gear checks, and briefings.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding
Altitude: Lukla – 2,860 m | Phakding – 2,652 m
Distance: 7.8 km | Trekking Time: 3 hours
The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is a thrilling 35-minute ride that lands on a short, sloped mountain runway. From Lukla, you begin a gentle descent along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding, a small riverside village. The trail passes through pine forests, crossing suspension bridges, and introduces you to local stone-built houses and prayer wheels.
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440 m | Distance: 10.7 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Today’s hike is both scenic and demanding, as you steadily gain altitude and cross multiple suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge. You’ll officially enter Sagarmatha National Park and reach Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa town in the region. It’s a hub for acclimatization, filled with bakeries, gear shops, and incredible mountain views.
Day 4: Namche to Khumjung Village
Altitude: 3,790 m | Distance: 2.7 km
Trekking Time: 2–3 hours
This short hike to Khumjung, just above Namche, serves as your acclimatization day. The village is culturally significant, home to the Edmund Hillary School and a monastery that reportedly holds a Yeti scalp. The views from this elevation are stunning, and the peaceful village vibe offers a glimpse into traditional Sherpa life.
Day 5: Khumjung to Dole
Altitude: 3,950 m | Distance: 8.7 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
The trail climbs out of Khumjung and into alpine terrain, where the forest thins and the landscape becomes increasingly rugged. As you ascend, you’ll pass through Mong La and descend slightly to Phortse Tenga, before climbing again to reach Dole, a small seasonal village with simple tea houses nestled under snowy ridges.
Day 6: Dole to Machhermo
Altitude: 4,470 m | Distance: 5.3 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Today’s walk is shorter but takes you above 4,000 meters. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River valley, offering dramatic views of Cho Oyu, Taboche, and Cholatse. Machhermo is known for its high-altitude medical center and stunning open terrain, where yaks graze beneath craggy cliffs.
Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo
Altitude: 4,800 m | Distance: 7 km
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
The scenery today is simply jaw-dropping. You’ll pass by the first and second Gokyo Lakes before reaching Dudh Pokhari, the main lake beside the village of Gokyo. With its clear blue waters surrounded by snowcapped peaks, Gokyo is a highlight of the entire trek. The thin air makes the walk challenging despite the modest distance.
Day 8: Visit 5th Gokyo Lake
Altitude: ~5,000 m | Distance: 10 km (round trip)
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
A rest day that’s anything but restful—you’ll hike further into the Gokyo Lake system, reaching the fifth lake, which is set against an incredible backdrop of Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, and Ngozumpa Glacier. The area is sacred to locals and surrounded by spiritual energy, making it a profound experience.
Day 9: Gokyo Ri Hike and Trek to Thangnak
Altitude: Gokyo Ri – 5,357 m | Thagnak – 4,750 m
Distance: 7.8 km | Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
You’ll begin your day early with a climb to Gokyo Ri, a steep but non-technical peak offering one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas. After descending, you’ll cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, a vast, creaking expanse of ice, and arrive at Thangnak, a small overnight stop before the Chola Pass.
Day 10: Thangnak to Dzongla via Chola Pass
Altitude: Chola Pass – 5,368 m | Dzongla – 4,830 m
Distance: 9 km | Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
This is a tough, technical day. You’ll ascend a steep scree to reach the icy Chola Pass, marked by prayer flags and awe-inspiring glacier views. The descent is equally steep, requiring care. Upon reaching Dzongla, you’ll be rewarded with dramatic views of Ama Dablam and a quieter stretch of the Khumbu.
Day 11: Dzongla to Lobuche
Altitude: 4,940 m | Distance: 6.4 km
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
A relatively easy day compared to the Chola Pass. The trail meanders above glacial moraine and offers views of Pumori and the Khumbu Icefall. You’ll reconnect with the main EBC route and settle in Lobuche, a wind-swept outpost nestled under the shadow of Everest.
Day 12: Lobuche to Gorakshep and Visit Everest Base Camp
Altitude: 5,164 m (Gorakshep) | 5,364 m (EBC)
Distance: 12.5 km | Trek Time: 9–10 hours
The trek continues along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After lunch, you head out for the final push to EBC, a rocky, high-altitude trail dotted with prayer flags and climbers’ camps. Reaching the base of the world’s highest mountain is a rewarding highlight of the Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek route.
Day 13: Kala Patthar Summit and Descend to Pheriche
Altitude: 5,644 m (Kala Patthar) | 4,371 m (Pheriche)
Distance: 16 km | Trek Time: 8–9 hours
Start early to summit Kala Patthar, the highest point on the trek, with jaw-dropping sunrise views over Everest and the Khumbu Icefall. Afterward, descend to Gorakshep for breakfast before continuing down to the windy village of Pheriche. The lower altitude provides relief, and the valley views open up beautifully.
Day 14: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440 m | Distance: 19.8 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hours
A long but scenic descent passes through Pangboche and Tengboche, where the famous monastery overlooks Ama Dablam. The trail winds through forests and riverside paths until you return to Namche Bazaar, now bustling and familiar. This leg reflects the journey’s diversity in terrain and altitude.
Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Altitude: 2,860 m | Distance: 18.5 km | Trek Time: 6–7 hours
The final trekking day retraces the trail through suspension bridges and stone steps. It’s a long descent to Lukla, where most trekkers reflect on their journey over a celebratory dinner. This marks the official end of the physical adventure on the Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek.
Day 16: Fly to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400 m | Flight Time: 35 mins or 4.5 hrs by road
Fly back to Kathmandu (or drive from Ramechhap, if needed). The comforts of the city feel especially sweet after the high mountains. It’s a day to relax, shop, and relive memories of glacial lakes, mountain peaks, and high-altitude trails.
Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast, you’ll check out and transfer to the airport for your onward journey. With unforgettable memories of lakes, ridges, and Himalayan culture, your Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek with We Ramblers comes to a fulfilling close.
Why Choose We Ramblers for The Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Trek?
We Ramblers is a trusted name in high-altitude trekking, known for safe, well-supported Himalayan expeditions. Our team manages all logistics, from permits and flights to guides and gear, and offer expert support for acclimatization and emergencies.
With local knowledge and international standards, we make your Gokyo trek unforgettable, secure, and deeply rewarding. Get in touch today for complete details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to climb Gokyo Ri?
It takes about 2–3 hours to climb from Gokyo village to the summit of Gokyo Ri.
2. How long is the Gokyo Lakes trek?
The trek is typically 8–12 days, covering around 92–100 km round trip depending on the route.
3. How difficult is the Gokyo Lakes trek?
It’s moderately difficult, with gradual altitude gain but requires good fitness and acclimatization.
4. Is Gokyo Ri worth it?
Absolutely! It offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—some of the best in the Everest region.
