Gokyo Lakes, Nepal: Complete Travel & Trekking Guide

At nearly 5,000 metres, where the air is thin and the silence is deep, a string of lakes glows in shades of turquoise, emerald and sapphire against a backdrop of snow peaks and glacier ice. On calm mornings, their mirror-like surfaces reflect Cho Oyu and the surrounding summits. In winter, they freeze into sheets of blue-white ice. For Sherpas, Hindus and Buddhists, they are sacred. For trekkers, they are pure Himalayan magic. These are the Gokyo Lakes, the world's highest freshwater lake system and one of the most beautiful sights in the Everest region. This complete guide from Nepal Trip Services explores each of the lakes, how to reach them, the best time to visit, altitude tips and everything else you need to plan your Gokyo Lakes Trek.

What Are the Gokyo Lakes?

The Gokyo Lakes are a chain of glacier-fed freshwater lakes in the Gokyo Valley of Sagarmatha National Park, in Nepal's Khumbu region. Lying between about 4,700 and 5,000 metres, they form the highest freshwater lake system in the world.

The lakes are fed by seepage from the Ngozumpa Glacier, a stream from the Renjo La pass to the north-west and another stream originating from the Ngozumpa Glacier in the east. Their waters eventually drain into the Dudh Koshi River.

Gokyo Lakes at a Glance

Detail	Information
Location	Gokyo Valley, Sagarmatha National Park, Solukhumbu, Nepal
Altitude Range	About 4,700 – 5,000 m
Number of Main Lakes	Six (with many smaller ponds in the wider wetland)
Largest Lake	Dudh Pokhari (Gokyo Cho), about 42.9 hectares
Main Village	Gokyo (about 4,790 m)
Protected Status	Ramsar Wetland of International Importance since 2007
Wetland Area	About 7,770 hectares (77.7 km²)
Water Source	Ngozumpa Glacier and surrounding glacial streams
Drains Into	Dudh Koshi River
Nearby Viewpoint	Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
Best Time	March–May & September–November

A Ramsar Wetland of Global Importance

In September 2007, Gokyo and its associated wetlands of 7,770 ha were designated a Ramsar site, recognising their importance for biodiversity and as a high-altitude freshwater system. Scientific studies have also found that the lakes are deeper than researchers previously assumed.

The wetland supports alpine plants, migratory birds such as ruddy shelducks, and wildlife including Himalayan tahr, pika and snow leopards in the surrounding mountains.

The Six Main Gokyo Lakes Explained

Lake	Local Name	Approx. Altitude	How to Reach	Highlight
First Lake	Longponga (Longbanga)	~4,690 m	On the main trail from Machhermo	Small lake at the entrance to the lake chain
Second Lake	Taboche Tsho (Taujon)	~4,740 m	On the main trail	Peaceful, reflective waters
Third Lake	Dudh Pokhari (Gokyo Cho)	~4,750–4,790 m	Beside Gokyo village	Largest and most famous lake
Fourth Lake	Thonak Tsho	~4,830 m	1–1.5 hours north of Gokyo	Quiet lake with Cho Oyu close-ups
Fifth Lake	Ngozumpa Tsho	~4,950–4,990 m	2–3 hours north of Gokyo	Scoundrel's Viewpoint of Everest
Sixth Lake	Gyazumpa Tsho	~5,000 m	Full-day hike from Gokyo	Remote lake at the foot of Cho Oyu

1. First Lake: Longponga

The first lake appears on the trail as you climb from Machhermo along the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier's moraine. It's small but marks the exciting moment you enter the Gokyo lake system.

2. Second Lake: Taboche Tsho

A short walk further brings you to the second lake, often calm and reflective, with snow peaks mirrored on its surface. A small stream connects it with the third lake.

3. Third Lake: Dudh Pokhari (Gokyo Cho)

The star of the valley. Gokyo Cho, also called Dudh Pokhari, is the main lake with an area of 42.9 ha, and the village of Gokyo lies on its eastern shore. Its brilliant turquoise water, framed by Gokyo Ri and snow peaks, is one of the most photographed scenes in Nepal. A small shrine on its shore reflects the lake's spiritual importance.

4. Fourth Lake: Thonak Tsho

About an hour or so north of Gokyo, Thonak Tsho is quieter and wilder, surrounded by towering cliffs and offering close views of Cho Oyu. It's an excellent half-day acclimatisation hike and is included in our itinerary.

5. Fifth Lake: Ngozumpa Tsho

The fifth lake lies further north near the head of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Nearby, the famous Scoundrel's Viewpoint offers a dramatic view of Everest's North Face, Lhotse and Makalu across the glacier. It's a long but rewarding day hike.

6. Sixth Lake: Gyazumpa Tsho

The most remote of the main lakes, Gyazumpa Tsho lies near the base of Cho Oyu. Few trekkers reach it, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure. It requires a long day hike and good acclimatisation.

Why the Gokyo Lakes Are Sacred

The Gokyo Lakes are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.

• Janai Purnima pilgrimage: During this full-moon festival (usually in August), pilgrims travel to the lakes to bathe in their holy waters.
• Sherpa beliefs: Local Sherpas regard the lakes as homes of protective deities.
• Respect the lakes: Visitors should not swim, wash or throw anything into the water.

Gokyo Ri: The Best View of the Lakes

Above Gokyo village rises Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), the finest viewpoint for seeing the lakes from above. From its summit, you'll see Dudh Pokhari shining below, the vast Ngozumpa Glacier and four of the world's 8,000-metre peaks:

Mountain	Height
Mount Everest	8,849 m
Lhotse	8,516 m
Makalu	8,485 m
Cho Oyu	8,188 m

The climb takes about 2–3 hours from Gokyo and is one of the trek's undisputed highlights.

The Ngozumpa Glacier

Running alongside the lakes, the Ngozumpa Glacier is the largest glacier in Nepal, stretching around 36 km from Cho Oyu. Its rocky, debris-covered surface is dotted with meltwater ponds and ice cliffs. The lakes and glacier are closely linked, and scientists monitor the glacier closely, as changes in its meltwater could affect the lakes in the future.

How to Reach the Gokyo Lakes

Classic Route via Namche Bazaar

Step	Route	Duration
1	Fly Kathmandu (or Ramechhap) → Lukla, trek to Phakding	1 day
2	Phakding → Namche Bazaar	1 day
3	Acclimatisation day in Namche	1 day
4	Namche → Dole	1 day
5	Dole → Machhermo	1 day
6	Machhermo → Gokyo (First, Second & Third Lakes)	1 day

Alternative Routes

Route	Highlights
Via Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)	Approach from Thame with stunning views over the lakes
Via Cho La Pass (5,420 m)	Connects Gokyo with Everest Base Camp across the Ngozumpa Glacier
Via Phortse	A quieter route linking the Gokyo and EBC trails

Sample Itinerary: 12-Day Gokyo Lakes Trek

Day	Route	Lakes & Highlights
1	Arrival in Kathmandu	Welcome briefing
2	Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding	Dudh Koshi River
3	Trek to Namche Bazaar	Hillary Bridge, first Everest view
4	Acclimatisation in Namche	Everest View Hotel
5	Trek to Dole	Mong La ridge
6	Trek to Machhermo	Cho Oyu views
7	Trek to Gokyo + Gokyo Ri	First, Second & Third Lakes; Everest panorama
8	Fourth Lake hike, trek to Machhermo	Thonak Tsho and Cho Oyu close-ups
9	Trek to Namche Bazaar	Valley descent
10	Trek to Lukla	Farewell celebration
11	Fly to Kathmandu	Farewell dinner
12	Departure	—

Want to see the Fifth or Sixth Lake? Add an extra day in Gokyo for a longer lake exploration hike.

Best Time to Visit the Gokyo Lakes

Season	Months	Lake Conditions	Rating
Autumn	September – November	Bright turquoise lakes, clear skies	Best
Spring	March – May	Lakes thawing, mild days, good views	Excellent
Winter	December – February	Lakes often frozen, very cold, few trekkers	Challenging
Monsoon	June – August	Cloudy, rainy, Lukla flight delays	Difficult

Photo tip: Lakes are most vividly turquoise on clear, sunny autumn mornings. In winter, frozen lakes create a completely different, magical scene.

Weather & Temperatures at Gokyo (~4,790 m)

Season	Day	Night
Spring	5°C – 15°C	-8°C – 0°C
Monsoon	10°C – 15°C	0°C – 5°C
Autumn	5°C – 12°C	-10°C – -5°C
Winter	-5°C – 5°C	-20°C – -15°C

Permits Required

Permit	Foreign Nationals
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit	NPR 3,000
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit	NPR 3,000

Altitude & Safety at the Lakes

The Gokyo Lakes lie at high altitude, so safety comes first:

• Ascend gradually with acclimatisation stops in Namche, Dole and Machhermo.
• Drink 3–4 litres of water daily and avoid alcohol.
• Walk slowly, especially on hikes to the higher lakes.
• Watch for AMS symptoms like headache, nausea and dizziness.
• Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.
• Carry travel insurance covering trekking to 5,500 m and helicopter rescue.

Responsible Travel at the Gokyo Lakes

The lakes are fragile and sacred. Help protect them:

• Never swim, wash or bathe in the lakes.
• Don't throw anything into the water, including coins or offerings.
• Carry out all rubbish, including plastic and batteries.
• Use refillable water bottles and purification tablets.
• Stay on marked trails to protect fragile alpine vegetation.
• Respect shrines and prayer flags around the lakes.

Photography Tips for the Gokyo Lakes

• Shoot early morning for still water and perfect reflections.
• Climb Gokyo Ri for the classic aerial view of Dudh Pokhari.
• Use a polarising filter to enhance turquoise colours.
• Include prayer flags or yaks for foreground interest.
• Keep batteries warm, as cold drains them quickly.

Practical Travel Tips

• Book Lukla flights early and add 1–2 buffer days.
• Carry enough cash; ATMs are only in Lukla and Namche.
• Pack a four-season sleeping bag and warm layers.
• Bring a power bank, as charging is limited and paid.
• Trek with a licensed guide for safety and local insight.
• Allow extra time if you want to explore the Fifth or Sixth Lake.

Explore More with Nepal Trip Services

Discover the turquoise beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier and the unforgettable Gokyo Ri panorama on our 12-day Gokyo Lakes Trek. If you dream of standing at the foot of the world's highest mountain, choose the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. Experienced adventurers can link the lakes with Everest on the Everest Three High Passes Trek or the Gokyo & Everest Base Camp via Cho La Trek, while those seeking a shorter journey can enjoy Sherpa culture and Everest views on the Everest View Trek. Explore all our Everest Region adventures, and plan your perfect trip with our Trip Planner.

Gokyo Lakes, Nepal: FAQs

1. Where are the Gokyo Lakes located?

The Gokyo Lakes are in the Gokyo Valley of Sagarmatha National Park, in the Khumbu (Everest) region of northeastern Nepal. They lie west of the main Everest Base Camp route, at the foot of Cho Oyu. The lakes sit beside the Ngozumpa Glacier. They're reached by trekking from Lukla via Namche Bazaar.

2. How many Gokyo Lakes are there?

There are six main Gokyo Lakes, along with many smaller ponds in the wider wetland system. The lakes lie between about 4,700 and 5,000 metres. The largest is Dudh Pokhari, the Third Lake. Most trekkers visit the first four lakes.

3. What is the altitude of the Gokyo Lakes?

The Gokyo Lakes lie between about 4,700 and 5,000 metres above sea level. Dudh Pokhari, beside Gokyo village, is at around 4,750–4,790 metres. The Fifth and Sixth Lakes are close to 5,000 metres. This makes them the highest freshwater lake system in the world.

4. Which is the largest Gokyo Lake?

The largest is the Third Lake, Dudh Pokhari, also called Gokyo Cho. It covers about 42.9 hectares. Gokyo village sits on its eastern shore. It's the most visited and photographed of the lakes.

5. Why are the Gokyo Lakes sacred?

The Gokyo Lakes are sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims visit during the Janai Purnima festival to bathe in their waters. Local Sherpas believe protective deities live in the lakes. Visitors should respect them by not swimming, washing or littering.

6. Are the Gokyo Lakes a Ramsar site?

Yes, the Gokyo Lakes and associated wetlands were designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2007. The protected area covers about 7,770 hectares. This recognises their ecological and biodiversity value. It helps protect the lakes for future generations.

7. Why are the Gokyo Lakes turquoise?

The lakes get their vivid turquoise colour from fine glacial sediment, known as rock flour, suspended in the water. When sunlight hits these particles, it reflects bright blue and green shades. The colour is most striking on clear, sunny days. In winter, the lakes often freeze.

8. Do the Gokyo Lakes freeze in winter?

Yes, the lakes often freeze during winter (December–February), especially at night and in early mornings. Frozen lakes create beautiful scenery but come with very cold temperatures. Trails may also be icy or snowy. Winter trekking requires proper gear and experience.

9. Can I swim in the Gokyo Lakes?

No, swimming in the Gokyo Lakes is not allowed. The lakes are sacred, and the water is extremely cold and dangerous at this altitude. Washing and throwing objects into the lakes is also discouraged. Please enjoy them respectfully from the shore.

10. How long does it take to trek to the Gokyo Lakes?

The standard trek takes about 12 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. This includes flights to Lukla, acclimatisation days and time to visit the lakes and Gokyo Ri. Adding the Fifth or Sixth Lake requires an extra day. Longer routes may include the Renjo La or Cho La passes.

11. What is the best time to visit the Gokyo Lakes?

The best times are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). Autumn offers the clearest skies and brightest lake colours. Spring has milder temperatures and good views. Winter is very cold, and the monsoon brings clouds and rain.

12. Can I see Everest from the Gokyo Lakes?

Everest isn't clearly visible from the lake shores, but it's spectacular from Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) above the village. The Fifth Lake area, including Scoundrel's Viewpoint, also offers excellent Everest views. From Gokyo Ri, you can see four 8,000-metre peaks. It's one of the best Everest panoramas in Nepal.

13. Is the Gokyo Lakes Trek difficult?

The trek is graded moderate to challenging, mainly because of high altitude. Daily walks last 5–7 hours on rocky mountain trails. No technical climbing skills are needed. Good fitness and careful acclimatisation are essential.

14. Do I need permits to visit the Gokyo Lakes?

Yes, you need the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. Both currently cost NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals. They're checked at Lukla and Monjo. Trekking companies usually arrange them in advance.

15. Can I combine the Gokyo Lakes with Everest Base Camp?

Yes, you can combine the Gokyo Lakes with Everest Base Camp by crossing the Cho La Pass (5,420 m). This route takes around 15–18 days. You can also cross the Renjo La Pass for a loop via Thame. These options suit fit, experienced and well-acclimatised trekkers.

Final Thoughts

The Gokyo Lakes are among the most breathtaking natural wonders of the Himalaya. Their glowing turquoise waters, sacred atmosphere and dramatic setting beneath Cho Oyu and the Ngozumpa Glacier create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Whether you're gazing across Dudh Pokhari at sunset, exploring the quiet Fourth Lake or looking down on the entire lake chain from Gokyo Ri, every moment here is unforgettable.

Trek slowly, respect the sacred waters and give yourself time to soak in the beauty of this extraordinary place. With expert local guides, well-paced itineraries and complete trek support, Nepal Trip Services will help you experience the magic of the Gokyo Lakes safely and comfortably.