If you’re new to learning about Nepal and in particular the Everest region, you may not have heard about the Gokyo Lakes. These are a group of 19 lakes in total and are actually the worlds highest freshwater lake system. Three of these lakes are situated on the main Everest Circuit trekking route between the villages of Machhermo (4470m) and Gokyo (4790m), in the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal. These lakes from smallest to largest are First Lake, Taboche Tsho and Dudh Pokhari. Dudh Pokhari sits beside Gokyo village and directly below Gokyo Ri (5360m).
The Gokyo Lakes are a favourite among trekkers to the Everest region due to their spectacular turquoise colour. This colour the result of the glacier-fed waters they receive from the Ngozumpa Glacier and a stream from the Renjo La pass. Approximately 7000 tourists a year visit these lakes, most of them on their way around the Everest Circuit to Gokyo, Gokyo Ri and then over the Cho La pass and onto Everest Base Camp. The Gokyo Lakes are considered sacred by Buddhists and Hindus alike. Great views can be had of the Gokyo Lakes from the summit of Gokyo Ri or by walking to the top of the ridge-line that borders the Ngozumpa Glacier. The views in every direction here are incredible, not to mention the world’s 6th highest mountain – Cho Oyu (8201m) – towering above.
Visit the Gokyo Lakes with us
Trek Climb Ski Nepal operate regular treks around the Everest Circuit which all include 2 nights at Gokyo staying beside the beautiful lakes. Our trekking map below shows the position of the Gokyo Lakes between Machhermo and Gokyo. If you are considering a trek to Everest Base Camp and can spare another 4 days, be sure to consider the Everest Circuit trek with the Gokyo Lakes. It’s an incredible part of the world and a place we guarantee you’ll never forget.
View images of theses sacred Lakes in our Everest Circuit photo gallery