Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek-12 days

The Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Nepal's Khumbu region, near Everest. Known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, this trek is a quieter, unique alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp trek.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 12 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 5357 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

The Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Nepal’s Khumbu region, near Everest. Known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, this trek is a quieter, unique alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp trek. It features spectacular views of the world’s highest peaks and the beautiful Gokyo glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

The journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Manthali, followed by an exciting flight to Lukla. From there, the trek ascends gradually through charming Sherpa villages and lush forests. As trekkers progress, the landscape shifts to rugged, high-altitude terrain with towering peaks like Cho Oyu and Everest. Importantly, a highlight of the trek is the stunning view of the Gokyo Lakes.

Additionally, Gokyo Ri, a rocky peak overlooking the Gokyo Lakes, offers an unforgettable vantage point for sunrise views. The golden glow on the snow-capped peaks is breathtaking. From here, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Moreover, the trek includes crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest in the Himalayas, adding an adventurous element.

Furthermore, the warm hospitality of the local Sherpa community adds a cultural touch to the trek. Visitors can immerse themselves in rich Sherpa culture, visit ancient monasteries, and experience unique mountain traditions. In essence, the Gokyo Lake Trek blends natural beauty, cultural exploration, and physical challenge. Consequently, it is a must-try for trekking enthusiasts seeking a remote and pristine Himalayan experience. This trek is a remarkable journey that leaves a lasting impression.

Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek Highlights

  • Explore Himalayan Lakes and Peaks showcasing stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  •  Challenge yourself at 5,360 meters for incredible Everest massif views.
  • Enjoy a quieter trek compared to Everest Base Camp.
  • Climb to 5,357 meters for panoramic Gokyo Valley vistas.
  • Encounter the Himalayas’ longest glacier.
  • Explore rich Sherpa culture and ancient monasteries like Thame and Khumjung.

Best time for the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek

The best time for the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Tour is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for the to

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Everest Region, including the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Nuptse, etc.
  • Flora: The rhododendron and alpine forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: Though it is a popular trekking season, the Himalayan Lakes and Peak trekking trail remains less crowded than other treks in the Everest Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 8°C to 12°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Though autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Himalayan Lakes and Peak Trek trails are less crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Himalayan Lakes and Peak Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Welcome to Nepal! This land boasts towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon arrival, a Kalpa Holidays representative will meet you at the airport and assist with your hotel transfer. After check-in, you’ll receive a brief overview of your trip. If you wish to explore the city on foot, ask your guide to arrange a walking tour based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2860 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will drive from Kathmandu to Manthali. After a 4 to 5-hour drive from Kathmandu, we will reach Manthali. From Manthali, we will catch a flight to Lukla, which offers a beautiful view of the Himalayas. As you arrive in Lukla, our experienced local guides will welcome us. From here, our Everest Base Camp trekking begins. We have to trek for 3 to 4 hours to reach Phakding. Overnight, we will stay here at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3440 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will start an hour of trekking from Phakding to Namche. The trail continues through the stunning landscapes and traditional villages in the Khumbu region. Crossing the suspension bridges over the Dush Koshi River, the trail transitions from lush greenery to alpine terrain. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, we will reach Namche, a vibrant Sherpa village surrounded by majestic peaks offering us breathtaking views of Everest. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable lodge.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4110 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving the Namche behind we will embark on our new destination Dhole (4110 m), the journey through the heart of the Khumbu region. The trail passes through the lush rhododendron forests and diverse landscapes, offering glimpses of the breathtaking snow-capped peaks. The hike begins with a climb to Mong La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Khumbu Valley. After that, we will descend to Phortse Tenga through the rhododendron and alpine forest. Here,  we will take a short break with breathtaking views of Cho Oyu. Overnight, we will stay at Dhole.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4470 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our journey from Dole to Machhermo begins by passing through the rhododendron forests and beautiful Lhabarma and Luza villages, which offer us a panoramic view of the Khumbu Valley. As we ascend, we will be greeted by the towering peaks of Cho Oyu, Thamserku, and Kangtega. After a difficult ascent to Machhermo, today’s trekking journey ends here. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4790 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will begin our trek from Machhermo to Gokyo. The trail ascends gradually through lush rhododendron forests and stunning landscapes offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trail becomes wider and harder as we leave Machhermo behind, as it gets drier and with lower oxygen levels, increasing the chances of altitude sickness. The trail offers us stunning views of the snow-capped peaks such as  Kantega and Cho Oyu, from here the trail becomes more difficult and rough. After a few minutes of walking, we will reach Gokyo Lake, a lake partially frozen surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks. As we get closer to Gokyo Village, we’ll be able to see Cho Oyu, glaciers, and the third lake below. The fourth lake provides a perspective of the climb up Gokyo Ri after a brief walk above the town. We’ll spend the night in Gokyo Village.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5357 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will embark on a trek from Gokyo Village to Gokyo Ri (5357 m) today. Today’s trek is challenging yet rewarding, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours of trekking. As we continue the trek, we will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. After 4 to 5 hours of trekking, we will reach Gokyo Ri, spend some time there, and return to Gokyo Valley. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4470 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will begin our trek from Gokyo Valley to the charming village of Dhole (4110 m), a mesmerizing journey through the heart of the Khumbu region. The trail passes through the diverse landscapes, offering us a spectacular view of the stunning mountains, glacial lakes, and vibrant alpine meadows. As we descend from Gokyo, the trail continues alongside the Gokyo Lakes, providing stunning reflections of the surrounding snow-capped giants like Cho Oyu. Passing through lush landscapes, the route gradually descends to the peaceful village of Dhole. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house. 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4110 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on the trek from Dhole to Namche. The trails descend from the alpine terrain, offering us stunning views and a mix of challenging ascends and descends. Passing through picturesque villages, rhododendron forests, and river valleys, we will experience the diverse landscapes. Along the way, we will encounter locals and yaks add to the cultural richness. Namche Bazaar, the final destination, is a beautiful Sherpa town with vibrant markets and panoramic views of Everest and neighboring peaks, creating an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. Overnight, we will stay at a comfortable tea house. 

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3440 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will start our trekking from Namche to Lukla. The trail showcases the lush forests, Sherpa villages, and panoramic views of peaks like Thamserku and Kangtega. Through the journey, we will experience the warm hospitality of the Sherpa community, and then the trail will take us through rhododendron forests and open valleys. The descent concludes in the charming village of Phakding, nestled along the Dudh Koshi River, before reaching the bustling town of Lukla. This trek combines natural beauty and cultural immersion, creating an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. Lukla arrives after a few hours of trekking from Phakding, where we will spend a night.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 2860 m
  • Meal Breakfast

Today, early in the morning, we will fly from Lukla to Manthali, which will take approximately 35 minutes as you fly back to Manthali. Then we’ll drive 4 to 5 hours to Kathmandu. Once you arrive, we will be transferred to our hotel and free to explore the city.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our wonderful Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours before your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your trekking journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and  Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The difficulty level of the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek is moderately challenging. The rough terrain, high altitude, numerous steep ascents and descents, and unpredictable weather conditions make this trek challenging.

The Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek requires both the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. Green Valley Nepal Treks can assist you in obtaining all the necessary documentation for these permits.

For the Himalayan Lakes and Peaks Trek, it is mandatory to have travel insurance. Before commencing the trek, participants must furnish Green Valley Nepal Treks with a copy of their travel insurance certificate, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all expenses related to medical care, emergency evacuation, and helicopter rescue operations at altitudes up to 6000 meters

While there is no age restriction, it is not recommended to bring young children to higher altitudes, as it could significantly impact their health. It is essential to be in excellent physical condition and maintain a positive outlook. Individuals with delicate medical conditions, such as heart or lung problems, are strongly discouraged from undertaking this trek.

Most tea houses will impose a modest fee for internet usage. While the Wi-Fi connection might not be exceptionally fast, you can still attend to urgent messages or access updates pertinent to your work.

While trekking, bottled water is readily available and affordable along the paths. Nevertheless, some trekking regions have restrictions on plastic bottles. Hence, we recommend bringing a refillable water bottle that you can fill with either boiled or filtered water. Furthermore, it is strongly advised to use water purification tablets or drops, which you can either bring from your home country or acquire in Kathmandu.

Opting for vegetarian cuisine poses no challenges, as the majority of lodges offer vegetarian dishes. As a precaution against food-related illnesses, we consistently recommend that our clients opt for vegetarian meals. Consuming substantial, meat-centric meals at elevated altitudes is not advisable for maintaining good health.

As a rule, credit cards have limited acceptance in Nepal, making them less useful. In Kathmandu, there are ATMs available for withdrawing rupees at a favorable exchange rate. Alongside any fees imposed by your bank, Kathmandu's ATMs typically levy a $5 USD service charge.