Gokyo Fourth & Fifth Lakes: Complete Trekking Guide

Gokyo Fourth & Fifth Lakes: Beyond the Crowds, Closer to Cho Oyu

Most trekkers stop at Gokyo village and its famous third lake. Those who keep walking north discover the quietest, wildest corner of the Gokyo Valley: the Fourth Lake (Thonak Tsho) at about 4,840 m and the Fifth Lake (Ngozumpa Tsho) at about 4,990 m. Here, Cho Oyu (8,188 m) fills the northern horizon, and Mount Everest appears across the Ngozumpa Glacier from the famous Scoundrel's Viewpoint.

The hike is an out-and-back day trip from Gokyo, with no technical sections. Thonak Tsho is the largest and deepest of all the Gokyo lakes, yet it sees only a fraction of the visitors. For many trekkers on the Gokyo Lakes Trek, this walk becomes the most peaceful and memorable day of the journey.

This guide explains everything you need to know: where the lakes are, how long the hike takes, what you will see, when to go, how hard it is and how to fit it into your Everest-region itinerary.

Fourth & Fifth Lakes at a Glance

Detail	Fourth Lake	Fifth Lake
Local name	Thonak Tsho (Tonak Pokhari)	Ngozumpa Tsho
Approx. altitude	~4,840 m (15,880 ft)	~4,990 m (16,370 ft)
Distance from Gokyo	About 3 km	About 6 km
Time from Gokyo (one way)	1.5–2 hours	3–3.5 hours
Height gain from Gokyo	About 50–80 m	About 200 m (plus ~10–20 m to Scoundrel's Viewpoint)
Size	About 65 ha, the largest Gokyo lake; about 62 m deep, the deepest	About 14 ha, one of the smaller lakes
Best views	Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, turquoise lake	Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ngozumpa Glacier
Difficulty	Easy–moderate (altitude)	Moderate (long day at altitude)
Start / end	Gokyo village (~4,790 m)	Gokyo village (~4,790 m)
Protected status	Part of the Gokyo Ramsar site (designated 2007) inside Sagarmatha National Park	Same

Altitudes and distances vary slightly between maps and sources.

Where the Fourth and Fifth Lakes Sit in the Gokyo Lake Chain

The Gokyo Lakes are six main glacial lakes running south to north along the western edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal's longest glacier at about 36 km. The Fourth and Fifth Lakes are the two upper lakes beyond Gokyo village, closest to Cho Oyu. In September 2007, the lakes and about 7,770 ha of surrounding wetland were declared a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.

No.	Lake	Approx. altitude	Position on the trail
1	Longponga Tsho	~4,690 m	Passed on the way up from Machhermo
2	Taujung (Taboche) Tsho	~4,740 m	Just before Gokyo village
3	Dudh Pokhari (Gokyo Tsho)	~4,790 m	Gokyo village sits on its eastern shore
4	Thonak Tsho	~4,840 m	1.5–2 hours north of Gokyo
5	Ngozumpa Tsho	~4,990 m	3–3.5 hours north of Gokyo; Scoundrel's Viewpoint nearby
6	Gyazumpa Tsho	~5,000 m	Remote, near the Cho Oyu south base camp area; rarely visited

Interesting Facts About the Upper Lakes

• Thonak Tsho is the biggest Gokyo lake, at about 65 ha, larger than Dudh Pokhari (about 43 ha).
• Thonak Tsho is also the deepest, measured at about 62 m.
• No visible surface channel links the third lake with the Fourth and Fifth Lakes; they are fed by glacial meltwater and springs.
• The lakes are sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, and local beliefs have long protected the birds and wildlife here.
• Glacier risk: scientists monitor the lakes because changes in the Ngozumpa Glacier could affect them in future.

Fourth Lake (Thonak Tsho): The Largest and Deepest Gokyo Lake

Thonak Tsho lies about 1.5–2 hours' walk north of Gokyo at roughly 4,840 m, only around 50–80 m higher than the village. It is the easiest of the upper lakes to reach and the perfect half-day hike for an acclimatisation morning.

The trail leaves the northern end of Gokyo and follows a gentle path along the grassy ablation valley between the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine and the mountain slopes. You pass yak pastures, stone walls and seasonal herders' huts. The lake appears on your left, slightly below the trail, framed by steep rock walls and the snowy summit of Cho Oyu.

What to See at the Fourth Lake

• Cho Oyu (8,188 m), the world's sixth-highest mountain, rising directly to the north
• Gyachung Kang (7,952 m) and the high ridges of the Nepal–Tibet border
• Brilliant turquoise water reflecting the peaks on calm mornings
• The lateral moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier, with views across the ice
• Wildlife: Himalayan tahr, pika and high-altitude birds such as snowcocks

Who Should Visit the Fourth Lake?

1. Every Gokyo trekker with half a day to spare, as it is included on Day 8 of our 12-day itinerary.
2. Trekkers acclimatising before Gokyo Ri, Renjo La or Cho La.
3. Photographers who want Cho Oyu reflections without the crowds.
4. Trekkers short on energy who still want to see the upper valley, since the gradient is gentle.

Tip: After fresh snowfall, the trail beyond the Fourth Lake is often not broken. The Fourth Lake is usually still reachable when the Fifth is not.

Fifth Lake (Ngozumpa Tsho) and Scoundrel's Viewpoint

Ngozumpa Tsho sits at about 4,990 m, roughly 1.5 hours beyond the Fourth Lake and 3–3.5 hours from Gokyo. It takes its name from the glacier beside it and lies at the foot of Ngozumpa Tse (Gokyo Peak, about 5,553 m). The landscape here feels remote and raw: rock, ice and silence, with Cho Oyu so close it seems to fill the sky.

From the Fourth Lake, the trail climbs gradually over rocky ground and grassy shelves. Two paths lead on: a gentler valley route to the left and a rougher route along the moraine crest to the right. Your guide will choose the best option for the conditions.

Scoundrel's Viewpoint (about 5,000 m)

Just east of the Fifth Lake, a small hill on the moraine crest is decorated with prayer flags. This is Scoundrel's Viewpoint, one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the whole Everest region. From here you look straight across the vast Ngozumpa Glacier to:

Mountain	Height	View from Scoundrel's Viewpoint
Mount Everest	8,849 m	Clear view of the summit pyramid to the east
Lhotse	8,516 m	Beside Everest
Makalu	8,485 m	Distinctive pyramid further east
Cho Oyu	8,188 m	Towering to the north, very close
Gyachung Kang	7,952 m	Between Cho Oyu and Everest
Ngozumpa Glacier	~36 km long	A sweeping river of ice and rubble directly below

Many trekkers find this view as impressive as Gokyo Ri, with a wilder, more intimate feel and almost nobody else around. Bring binoculars: the detail on Everest's summit ridges and the glacier's ice cliffs is remarkable.

Fourth Lake vs Fifth Lake: Which Should You Visit?

Factor	Fourth Lake only	Fourth + Fifth Lakes
Total time from Gokyo	3–4 hours return	6–7 hours return
Highest point	~4,840 m	~5,000 m (Scoundrel's Viewpoint)
Everest view	Partial glimpses	Full panorama across the glacier
Effort	Easy–moderate	Moderate, long day at altitude
Best for	Short itineraries, acclimatisation	Extra day in Gokyo, keen photographers

Fourth & Fifth Lakes Hike: Route and Timings

The hike is an out-and-back walk from Gokyo on the same trail. Start early, ideally around 6:30–7:00 AM, because mornings are clearest and afternoon wind and cloud often build in the upper valley.

Stage	Approx. time	Altitude	Trail notes
Gokyo village → Fourth Lake	1.5–2 hrs	4,790 → ~4,840 m	Gentle path through the ablation valley
Fourth Lake → Fifth Lake	1–1.5 hrs	~4,840 → ~4,990 m	Gradual climb over rocky ground
Fifth Lake → Scoundrel's Viewpoint	15–20 mins	~4,990 → ~5,000 m	Short scramble up the moraine crest
Time at lakes & viewpoint	30–60 mins	—	Photos, lunch snack, rest
Return to Gokyo	2–2.5 hrs	~5,000 → 4,790 m	Same trail, mostly gentle descent
Total (Fourth + Fifth)	6–7 hrs	—	Full day
Total (Fourth only)	3–4 hrs	—	Half day

How the Hike Fits Into Your Itinerary

On the Nepal Trip Services 12-day Gokyo Lakes Trek, you climb Gokyo Ri on the afternoon of Day 7. On Day 8 you hike to the Fourth Lake in the morning before descending to Machhermo.

To include the Fifth Lake and Scoundrel's Viewpoint comfortably, we recommend adding one extra night in Gokyo:

1. Day 7: Machhermo → Gokyo; afternoon Gokyo Ri climb.
2. Day 8 (extra day): Full-day hike to the Fourth and Fifth Lakes and Scoundrel's Viewpoint; return to Gokyo.
3. Day 9: Optional sunrise on Gokyo Ri, then descend to Machhermo.
4. Days 10–13: Continue the standard route back to Namche, Lukla and Kathmandu.

This 13-day version also adds valuable acclimatisation if you plan to continue over Renjo La or Cho La. Our team can tailor it for you through the trip planner.

Getting to Gokyo First

The upper lakes are only reachable via Gokyo village, so the standard approach applies:

1. Fly Kathmandu (or Ramechhap) → Lukla (2,860 m).
2. Trek via Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), with an acclimatisation day.
3. Continue via Mong La and Dole (4,040 m) to Machhermo (4,470 m).
4. Climb past the first and second lakes to Gokyo (4,790 m).

Best Time to Visit the Fourth and Fifth Lakes

October–November and April–May are the best months for the upper Gokyo lakes. The trail is snow-free, skies are clear and the water shows its strongest turquoise colour.

Season	Months	Trail conditions	Lake colour & views	Recommended?
Autumn	September–November	Dry and stable	Clearest views of Everest and Cho Oyu	Best
Spring	March–May	Mostly clear; snow possible in March	Bright turquoise by late spring; afternoon clouds	Excellent
Winter	December–February	Snow and ice; trail beyond the Fourth Lake often unbroken	Lakes frozen; crisp, clear mornings	Fourth Lake only, with care
Monsoon	June–August	Wet, muddy, cloudy	Views often hidden	Not recommended

How Difficult Is the Hike?

The Fourth Lake hike is easy to moderate, and the full Fourth + Fifth Lakes hike is moderate. The trail is non-technical, but you are walking close to 5,000 m, where every step takes more effort.

Main challenges:

• Altitude: thin air near 5,000 m makes even gentle slopes tiring.
• Distance: a 12 km round trip to the Fifth Lake is a long day at this height.
• Terrain: rocky sections and moraine boulders near the Fifth Lake.
• Weather: strong afternoon winds and sudden cloud or snow.
• Few facilities: no teahouses beyond Gokyo, so carry water and snacks.

Altitude Safety on the Upper Lakes

You should only attempt the Fifth Lake once you have slept at least one night in Gokyo and feel well. Turn back immediately if symptoms of altitude sickness appear.

1. Acclimatise properly in Namche Bazaar and Machhermo before reaching Gokyo.
2. Walk slowly and keep a steady breathing rhythm.
3. Drink 2–3 litres of water during the hike itself.
4. Watch for warning signs: severe headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion or breathlessness at rest.
5. Descend if unwell: returning to Gokyo or lower is the most effective treatment.
6. Stay with your guide, who monitors your oxygen level with a pulse oximeter.

Packing List for the Day Hike

Carry a light 25–35 L daypack. Your main bag stays at your teahouse in Gokyo.

• Warm down jacket and windproof shell
• Thermal base layer, fleece, warm hat and insulated gloves
• UV400 sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm
• 2 litres of water in insulated bottles, plus purification tablets
• Packed lunch or energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars)
• Trekking poles for the rocky moraine sections
• Headlamp, small first-aid kit and personal medicines
• Camera, spare batteries kept warm, and binoculars
• Microspikes in winter or after snowfall

Photography Tips for the Upper Gokyo Lakes

• Shoot the Fourth Lake early for still water and mirror reflections of Cho Oyu.
• Use a wide-angle lens to fit the lake, moraine and peaks into one frame.
• Bring a zoom lens for Everest and Makalu from Scoundrel's Viewpoint.
• Add a human element: a trekker or prayer flags in the foreground show the immense scale.
• Use a polarising filter to deepen the turquoise colour and cut glare.
• Keep batteries in an inside pocket, as cold drains them quickly.

Going Further: Sixth Lake and Cho Oyu Base Camp

Beyond the Fifth Lake, the valley continues toward the Sixth Lake (Gyazumpa Tsho, about 5,000 m) and the southern Cho Oyu Base Camp area, where the Gyazumpa and Ngozumpa glacier branches meet. Very few trekkers go this far.

• It usually needs a very long day or an extra night of camping.
• There are no teahouses or facilities beyond Gokyo.
• The terrain is rougher and less marked, so an experienced guide is essential.
• It suits strong, well-acclimatised trekkers who want true wilderness.

If this interests you, ask our team about a custom extension.

Responsible Travel at the Upper Lakes

The Fourth and Fifth Lakes are part of a fragile, protected wetland. Please help keep them pristine:

1. Carry out all rubbish, including food wrappers and tissues.
2. Never wash, swim or throw objects into the sacred lakes.
3. Stay on established trails to protect fragile alpine plants.
4. Do not disturb wildlife or move stones from cairns and prayer sites.
5. Use refillable bottles and purification tablets instead of plastic.
6. Walk clockwise around prayer flags and mani stones.

Why Explore the Upper Gokyo Lakes with Nepal Trip Services?

Nepal Trip Services Pvt. Ltd. has 16 years of experience guiding trekkers in the Himalayas and is associated with the Nepal Tourism Board and TAAN.

• Fourth Lake hike included in our 12-day Gokyo Lakes Trek
• Easy extension with an extra Gokyo night for the Fifth Lake and Scoundrel's Viewpoint
• Licensed local guides who know the upper valley and its changing conditions
• Daily oxygen checks with a pulse oximeter and a full first-aid kit
• All logistics handled: flights, permits, porters and teahouse bookings
• Group prices from US$ 1,250 per person, with tailor-made options

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where are the Fourth and Fifth Gokyo Lakes?

They lie north of Gokyo village in the upper Gokyo Valley, Sagarmatha National Park, along the western edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier below Cho Oyu.

2. How high are the Fourth and Fifth Lakes?

The Fourth Lake (Thonak Tsho) is about 4,840 m and the Fifth Lake (Ngozumpa Tsho) about 4,990 m. Scoundrel's Viewpoint is roughly 5,000 m.

3. How long does it take to hike to the Fifth Lake?

About 3–3.5 hours one way from Gokyo, or 6–7 hours return including time at the lakes and viewpoint.

4. Can I see Everest from the Fifth Lake?

Yes. From Scoundrel's Viewpoint near the Fifth Lake, you see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu across the Ngozumpa Glacier.

5. Which is the largest Gokyo lake?

Thonak Tsho, the Fourth Lake, is the largest at about 65 ha and also the deepest at about 62 m.

6. Is the Fourth Lake included in the Gokyo Lakes Trek?

Yes. Our 12-day Gokyo Lakes Trek includes a morning hike to the Fourth Lake on Day 8. The Fifth Lake needs one extra day in Gokyo.

7. Is the Fifth Lake or Gokyo Ri better?

Both are superb. Gokyo Ri is higher (5,357 m) with a steeper climb and broader panorama. Scoundrel's Viewpoint is a gentler, quieter walk with a closer view of the glacier and Cho Oyu. With an extra day, do both.

8. Are there teahouses at the Fourth or Fifth Lake?

No. The last teahouses are in Gokyo village, so carry water, snacks and warm layers.

9. Can I visit the upper lakes in winter?

The Fourth Lake is often reachable in winter, but snow frequently blocks the trail to the Fifth Lake. Go only with a guide and microspikes.

10. Do I need a guide for the Fourth and Fifth Lakes?

A licensed guide is strongly recommended. The trail is quiet, weather changes fast and altitude risks are real near 5,000 m.

Plan Your Trip to the Fourth and Fifth Gokyo Lakes

The Fourth and Fifth Lakes reveal a side of the Everest region few trekkers ever see: the largest and deepest Gokyo lake, Cho Oyu towering overhead and an Everest view from Scoundrel's Viewpoint shared with almost no one else. Walking here, far from the busy trails, is pure Himalayan solitude.

With one extra day in Gokyo, proper acclimatisation and an experienced local guide, this hike can become the highlight of your entire trek. Nepal Trip Services will arrange every detail, from Lukla flights and permits to guides, porters and teahouses, so you can simply enjoy the lakes and mountains.

Ready to go further? See the full itinerary, inclusions and group prices on our Gokyo Lakes Trek – 12 Days page, or plan a custom trip with an extra Gokyo day for the Fifth Lake. Spring and autumn departures fill fast, so we recommend booking 2–3 months ahead.

• WhatsApp / Viber: +977 982-8696557
• Phone: +977-9813593530
• Email: info@nepaltripservices.com
• Office: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
• Response time: usually within 0–2 hours

Altitudes, timings and prices are approximate and current as of October 2026. Trail conditions change with weather and season; your guide will advise on the day