How High is Gokyo?

Gokyo sits at an altitude of about 4,790 meters (15,715 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest villages in the Everest region of Nepal. The nearby Gokyo Lakes range between 4,700 and 5,000 meters, while the famous Gokyo Ri viewpoint rises to 5,357 meters (17,575 feet), even higher than Everest Base Camp.

This high-altitude setting gives Gokyo its magical scenery, with blue-green lakes, snowy peaks, and the longest glacier in Nepal, the Ngozumpa Glacier, right beside it. From here, trekkers can see some of the tallest mountains in the world. This includes giants like Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, all standing proudly in one frame.

Planning to visit this stunning highland village? Nepal Gateway Trekking can help you explore Gokyo’s breathtaking heights safely and comfortably.

Altitude Profile of the Gokyo Trek

The trek to Gokyo is not only about reaching a high point but also about gaining altitude gradually to stay safe and enjoy the journey. The route begins in Lukla, where the air already feels thinner, and slowly climbs toward Gokyo Village.

Below is a general altitude profile that shows how the elevation changes along the way:

As you can see, the highest elevation of the Gokyo trek is at Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), where you get the most stunning panoramic view of the Everest region.

To handle the altitude safely:

• Take rest days in Namche Bazaar and Machhermo
• Drink plenty of water during the trek
• Walk at a steady pace and avoid pushing uphill too fast

If you’re curious about how long it takes to reach this altitude, read our detailed guide on how long the Gokyo Lake Trek takes

About Gokyo and Its Lakes

Gokyo lies in the Solukhumbu District of Nepal, inside Sagarmatha National Park. The area is famous for the Gokyo Lakes, a group of six turquoise glacial lakes that are among the highest freshwater lakes in the world.

The lakes sit between 4,700 and 5,000 meters, and the largest one being Thonak Tsho, is also the deepest. The lakes are filled by glacial meltwater from the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier, which stretches over 36 kilometer.

These crystal-clear lakes hold deep spiritual meaning for local Sherpa people and are part of important religious festivals during the full moon of August.

Experience the breathtaking heights of Gokyo — book your trek with Nepal Gateway Trekking and make memories that last.

Trekking Destinations Around Gokyo

The Gokyo region connects to several other classic treks in the Everest area. Depending on your time frame and fitness, you can choose one of these routes:

• Everest Gokyo Lake Renjo La Pass Trek: This is a challenging trek that crosses the high Renjo La Pass (5,360 m). Typically lasting 14 to 16 days, it offers remote and breathtaking views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants. 
• Everest Gokyo Lake Trek: A moderately challenging route, this trek includes high-altitude walking and an optional day hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m). Usually completed in 10 to 12 days, it is quieter than the classic EBC trek. The trek highlights the serene Gokyo Lakes and panoramic mountain vistas from the summit of Gokyo Ri.
• Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp Trek: This trek combines the serenity of Gokyo with the classic Everest Base Camp trail, crossing high passes like Cho La (~5,420 m). Lasting 16 to 20 days, it offers a full Everest-region experience. The trek spans the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier to Everest Base Camp and multiple Himalayan peaks along the route.
• Gokyo Valley Trek: A shorter, moderate option for trekkers who prefer fewer days and less crowded trails. Typically lasting 8 to10 days, this trek focuses on the lakes, glacier edges, and peaceful valley life, providing excellent photographic opportunities.

Best Time to Visit Gokyo

The best seasons for trekking to Gokyo are spring (March to May) and autumn (Sep to Nov).

During these months, the weather is mostly clear and stable. You’ll get blue skies, bright lake reflections, and the best views of the Himalayas. Temperatures can still drop below freezing point at night, but daytime walking is comfortable.

If you want clear views and comfortable trekking conditions, spring and autumn are your best bets. However, some trekkers look for a peaceful time to trek during the winter and monsoon. Make sure you are fully prepared for these off-seasons.

• Winter (December to February) is very cold, and heavy snowfall often blocks trails.
• Monsoon (June to August) brings clouds and slippery paths, making trekking risky.

What Can You See in Gokyo Heights?  

From Gokyo, you can see some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain scenery. Photographers love early mornings here as the lakes turn golden under the first sunlight while Everest glows in the distance.

• Panoramic Himalayan peaks like Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,463 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m)
• Gokyo Lakes, with its stunning reflection of the surrounding peaks
• Ngozumpa Glacier, which is Nepal’s largest glacier, is visible right from Gokyo Village
• Best viewpoints at Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for sunrise and sunset photography

Altitude Effects & Safety Tips in Gokyo  

Trekking above 4,000 meters means your body will need time to adapt. A gradual pace and good preparation go a long way in keeping you healthy in high altitudes like Gokyo. Knowing how to handle the altitude helps prevent sickness and keeps your trek enjoyable.

• Watch for symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness that signal altitude sickness (AMS)
• Acclimatize at a lower altitude if necessary by spending rest days in Namche and Machhermo
• Hydrate well by drinking at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily
• Eat energy-rich foods for the trek. Carbs and soups help maintain energy
• Wear the right gear for the trek, like warm layers of clothes, trekking poles, and sturdy boots
• Emergency support health posts are readily available in Namche and Machhermo

Final Thoughts on Gokyo’s Altitude Beauty

How high is Gokyo? Gokyo is around 4,790 meters (15,715 feet) high, enough to give trekkers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the serene Gokyo Valley. After a gradual climb through Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo, reaching Gokyo feels like stepping into a different world. It has beautiful lakes, glaciers, and towering peaks all around for you to explore.

Whether you’re taking a moderate trek or challenging yourself with longer routes, Gokyo gives you some of the most memorable scenery in the Everest region. With good preparation, proper acclimatization, and a steady pace, your journey becomes an unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, Nepal Gateway Trekking can help you plan your Gokyo trek safely and comfortably. Contact us today!