The Jiri to Gokyo Lake Trek is a journey carved from the soul of the Himalayas, where every step weaves together the ancient rhythms of the mountains and the quiet heartbeat of the Sherpa valleys. The trek begins in the peaceful town of Jiri, often called the "Switzerland of Nepal" for its lush, rolling hills. But what lies ahead is a world far grander and more mysterious, where time slips away and the peaks rise like silent sentinels.
From Jiri, the trail gently leads you through green valleys, where terraced farms cascade down hillsides in neat rows, and the air is thick with the earthy scent of soil and pine. As you walk, the landscape shifts, and the hum of daily life in the villages hums alongside the rush of mountain rivers. Shivalaya soon greets you, a small village wrapped in serenity, nestled against the backdrop of forested slopes. Here, the warm glow of teahouse fires and the soft murmur of the villagers offer respite, as the path ahead grows steeper and more mysterious.
The trek climbs upward, weaving through dense forests where ancient trees stand like guardians of forgotten stories. The sound of rushing water follows you, the melody of mountain streams carving their way through the valleys. As you reach Bhandar, the hills stretch out in green waves, dotted with stone houses and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. There is a sense that time has slowed here, that the people and the land share a quiet, unspoken understanding.
With every turn, the mountains reveal more of themselves, their snow-capped peaks glimmering in the distance like a promise yet to be fulfilled. The trail is both rugged and tender, challenging yet kind. It draws you further into its fold, past yak herders moving with their steady, deliberate pace and through forests where the wind whispers secrets of the mountains.
The climb toward Namche Bazaar is long and steady, but as you approach this vibrant Sherpa hub, the trail opens up, revealing stunning vistas that seem to stretch into eternity. Namche sits cradled in a natural amphitheater, bustling with life. It is the heart of the Khumbu region, where trekkers, locals, and mountaineers all converge, each drawn by the magnetism of Everest and the peaks that surround it. From the narrow alleyways to the warm teahouses, Namche exudes a quiet energy, a pulse that mirrors the very rhythm of the Himalayas.
Beyond Namche, the landscape transforms once again as you follow the trail toward Gokyo. The path grows quieter, the air crisper, and the sky seems closer, pressing down on you with its vastness. You pass through villages where time feels suspended, where the daily rituals of life are carried out in the shadow of towering peaks. The yaks graze lazily, their thick coats brushing against the thin mountain air as you ascend further into the highlands.
As you approach Gokyo, the world opens up into a spectacle of glaciers and lakes, a sacred panorama unlike anything you've ever seen. The Ngozumpa Glacier stretches before you, a river of ice snaking through the valley, while Gokyo’s lakes shimmer in an otherworldly blue, their surfaces reflecting the sky like mirrors to the heavens. Each of the five lakes, sacred to both pilgrims and adventurers, feels like a portal to another realm, where earth and sky meet in perfect harmony.
From the summit of Gokyo Ri, standing at 5,357 meters, the entire Everest region unfolds beneath your feet. The peaks of Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and Everest rise like gods from the earth, their snow-clad summits piercing the clouds. The silence is profound, broken only by the wind as it sweeps across the icy landscape, carrying with it a sense of awe and reverence.
The trek to Gokyo Lake is not just a journey through landscapes, but a pilgrimage to the heart of the Himalayas. It is a story told in the crunch of footsteps on rocky trails, the murmur of rivers, and the whisper of winds across snow-capped peaks. With every step, you find yourself more deeply entwined with the spirit of the mountains, until you stand at the lake's edge, gazing into the azure depths, knowing you have touched something timeless and sacred.
From Tribhuban International Airport you will be transferred to your hotel room. In the afternoon we will invite you to our office for briefing about the each day program. Today we will hand over your Sagarmatha National Park Permits and TIMS.
From early in morning after having breakfast go to Old Bus Park and catch a bus for Jiri. Though situated 190km away from Kathmandu the bus requires 7 to 8 hours for Jiri. Overnight at Teahouse.
today we will trek to Bandar via Bharkaur, Mali Danda(2440m), Khimti valley Yelung Khola, Shivalaya, Deorali(2710m), Sangbadanda(2180m), Khasrubas(2330m) and Mahabir(2590m). The path is somewhere uphill where somewhere it is downhill. Overnight at tea house
walking from Bandar the trail is downhill to the village of Doharpa and Baranda until crossing the steel bridge at Tharo Khola(1480m). Preceding our trek to the east bank of the river we will climb uphill towards Kinja and continue our trek to Sete. Overnight at teahouse.
From today our trek is completely in Sherpa country and starts by climbing from Sete to the top of the 3535m high Lamjura Bhanjyang. The way is scenic and varied through forests of rhododendron, magnolia, maple and birch. This section of the trail is also well known for spotting birds like sunbirds. Lamjura Bhanjyang is the highest point on the trek between Jiri & Namche Bazaar & is marked by a tangle of stones, kindling & prayer flags. On the eastern side of the pass the route descents steeply for about 400m through fragrant fir & hemlock forests, then levels out passing the small village of Tragdobuk (2830m). Continuing our way down we will enter in Junbesi, a impressive Sherpa village among beautiful surroundings. Overnight at Teahouse
start to trek early in the morning cross Junbesi Khola and climb uphill. From the top one can witness the spectacular vista of Everest, Thamserku, Kantega and Mera Peak. After passing Ringmo Khola the trail climbs uphill to Ringmo Village. After Ringmo we will climb Trakshindu La Pass (2930m) a superb example of Sherpa architecture. Now we will trek downhill until we reach Nhuntala. Overnight at teahouse.
trek downhill to Dudh Koshi and cross the river using 110m long suspension bridge. We will continue our trek to Jubing (1680m), Khari Khola (2010m) until we reach Bupsa. Overnight at teahouse.
Starting with a gentle climb we pass to the village of Kharte from where we can witness the vista of Cho Oyu (8201m). We continue our climb until we reach Khari La Pass at an altitude of 2840m.walk downhill to the gorge Paiya Khola after crossing the bridge over it we reach to the small settlement of Puiyan (2730m). After Puiyan the trail is zigzag and the trail offers the good view of Khumbu region and the trail descents to Surke (2290m). Preceding our walk further passing through Mani Walls we will reach the village of Chhuplung. Overnight at teahouse.
After leaving Chhuplung we will continue of walk to Tharo Koshi River. After crossing the river the trail ascends to Ghats (2600m) and walk clamp to Phakding. We climb over steep and stony rim towards Benkar (2630m). Continuing our trek we cross the Kyashar Khola River and climb for Monju (2840m). Just away from Monju we enter Sagarmatha National Park. From here after crossing few rivers and climbs we will reach Namche Bazaar (3440m). Namche Bazaar is the main trading center of this region with hotels, lodges and restaurants.
Today we may rest or hike through the village of Khunde and Khumjung. Khumjung is the largest village of Khumbu region. After having lunch we will hike back to Namche Bazaar.
from Namche Bazaar our route heads to the picturesque village of Khumjung. From here we can see the captivating vista of Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kantega. Soon after leaving Khumjung we will climb uphill to a large Chorten on top of ridge. This Chorten descend from Khumbila (5734m), which is peak believed to be abode of God of Khumbu region. Then the route slightly descends to Sanasa and then the trail slightly ascends of Mongla (4000m). From here we can see the panoramic vista of various mountains. Now finally we trek downhill to Phortse Tenga and again uphill to Dole. Overnight at teahouse.
Trek for Four hours from Dole to Mochermo. The route is zigzag. In the whole trail we can see the panoramic vista of Kantega Peak, Thamserku and Cho Oyu. Overnight at teahouse.
from Mochermo route ascends to Gokyo offering the spectacular view of down valley to Kantega and Cho Oyu. Continuing our trail to Pangka (4390m) the trail descends to the moraine terminal of Ngozumpz glacier. After this the route is almost parallel and we pass the second lake known as Longponga. Ultimately we will reach Gokyo after 4 hours of continuous walk from Mochermo. Overnight at teahouse.
Early in the morning we will climb to the top of Gokyo Ri (5600m). From the apex we can see the captivating vista of Gokyo valley, massive Ngozumpz glacier and all the mountains of Khumbu region like Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu (8481m), Cho Oyu and Gashing Kang (7922m). Trek back to Gokyo for overnight.
after having breakfast we will trek to Phortse village via Pangka and Ngozumpa Glacier. The route is all about uphill and downhill climb. Phortse is one of the most beautiful villages in Khumbu region. Overnight at teahouse.
The trail slight descends to Dudhkoshi River and then steeply descends to Tengboche. The main attraction is Tengboche monastery which was built in 7th century. From here we can see breathtaking vista of Ama Dablam, Mt Everest along with many others. Overnight at teahouse.
From Tengboche we climb down to Fuki Tenga and climb up continuously to Namche Bazaar. Spend some time in Namche Bazaar we walk downhill to the village of Monju. Overnight at teahouse.
Trek back to Lukla along the same trail. Overnight at teahouse.
Fly back to Kathmandu.
Departure for your onward flight.
Note: Above Itinerary can be customized as per clients interest and time frame.
The Jiri to Gokyo Lake Trek is not just a journey but a poetic dance with the ancient heart of the Himalayas. Unlike the hurried flights into Lukla, this path unfurls gradually, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of legends. It is a passage through timeless villages, sacred lakes, and glacier-sculpted landscapes, where every bend in the trail reveals a new mystery.
The trek spans between 18 to 22 days, a graceful weaving of time and space through some of Nepal’s most breathtaking terrain. It gives you ample time to acclimatize, savor each moment, and become one with the mountain rhythm.
The mountains sing in spring (March to May) with rhododendron forests in bloom and a gentle warmth in the air. Autumn (September to November) offers crisp skies and breathtaking views, as the landscape turns golden beneath the peaks. Each season whispers its own beauty into the trek, but these periods are when the trail shines its brightest.
The Jiri to Gokyo Lake Trek is a journey of patience and endurance, making it best suited for those with some trekking experience. The trail is long and demanding at times, but with a sturdy spirit and an open heart, even the novice trekker can be transformed by the experience.
Teahouses line the trail, each one a sanctuary of warmth amidst the wilderness. These simple lodgings offer humble comfort, with cozy hearths where travelers gather to share stories, and windows that open to views of valleys and distant snow-capped peaks.
The trek requires a steady determination, as it winds through rugged landscapes, steep ascents, and high altitudes. Yet, every challenge is met with the reward of unimaginable beauty – valleys draped in green, towering peaks, and the shimmering blues of Gokyo’s sacred lakes.
To tread this sacred path, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and a Sagarmatha National Park permit, gateways into the wilderness and protection of the region’s delicate ecosystem.
At 5,357 meters, Gokyo Ri stands as a celestial balcony, offering sweeping vistas of the Himalayas. From here, Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu rise majestically, their peaks piercing the sky in a display of grandeur that few places on earth can match.
Indeed, the trail offers a bridge between two iconic journeys. From Gokyo, adventurers can cross the challenging Cho La Pass and continue on to Everest Base Camp, making this trek a confluence of two legendary paths.
Preparation is a blend of physical readiness and mental openness. Cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and stamina-building hikes are essential. Yet, just as important is cultivating a quiet patience and an eagerness to connect with the mountains, the people, and the land.
Though the path is well-trodden, a guide offers more than direction. They are storytellers, historians, and keepers of the mountain's secrets. With them, the trek transforms into a richer narrative, one woven with cultural depth and local insight.
Altitude sickness is a quiet companion that must be respected. Acclimatize slowly, listen to your body, and stay hydrated. The journey offers no rush, only the patient rise and fall of the mountains. Diamox can be used, but the best remedy is always a steady pace and frequent rest.
As you walk through forests and across valleys, the land hums with life. From the flutter of the elusive Danphe bird to the steady rhythm of yaks moving through the hills, each moment holds the possibility of an encounter with the wild and wondrous.
The Gokyo Lakes shimmer like mirrors to the heavens, their turquoise waters reflecting the purity of the sky. Sacred to both trekkers and pilgrims, they are more than just glacial lakes – they are portals into the soul of the mountains, places where silence speaks.
Yes, the trail from Jiri is a quieter, more contemplative path. It offers solitude, where the sounds of the forest and the whispers of the mountains accompany you. The fewer footsteps make each moment feel more intimate, as though the mountains have been waiting just for you.
A scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Jiri takes about 8 hours, tracing winding roads through lush landscapes and offering a glimpse of rural Nepal before you even set foot on the trekking trail.
The summit of Gokyo Ri is the highest point at 5,357 meters. From this elevation, the entire Himalayan range unfolds in a panorama of peaks, glaciers, and valleys – a vista that leaves an indelible imprint on your soul.
The trail winds through Sherpa villages where life moves with the rhythm of the mountains. You’ll encounter monasteries where prayer flags flutter in the wind, and the scent of incense lingers in the air. The culture of the Sherpa people is woven into every step, enriching the journey with stories of faith, resilience, and connection.
This trek offers something few others do – a slow, immersive connection with the Himalayas. It’s not just a trek; it’s a meditation on the beauty of the world, a pilgrimage that allows you to experience the grandeur of the mountains not just with your eyes, but with your heart.
Nepal , Everest Region
Nepal , Everest Region
Nepal , Everest Region
Nepal , Everest Region
Nepal , Everest Region
Nepal , Everest Region
