The Gokyo Lake Trek offers a quieter alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route, without sacrificing the awe inspiring views of Everest or the chance to stay in Namche Bazaar—the famed entry point to the Khumbu region.

This trail leads through less traveled paths, giving trekkers a closer look at Himalayan village life, sweeping alpine landscapes, glaciercarved terrain, and the striking blue waters of the Gokyo Lakes.

These lakes form a group of six glacial-fed bodies of water sitting between 4,700 and 5,000 meters in the Gokyo Valley, located within Sagarmatha National Park. Recognized as the world’s highest freshwater lake system, they’re both a Ramsar site and sacred to Hindus and Buddhists alike. Lonely Planet describes the Gokyo Valley as “the most spectacular in the Khumbu,” and it’s hard to argue.

Adding an extra day in the valley lets you explore the 5th and 6th lakes, tucked beneath Cho Oyu—the sixth highest mountain in the world.

You’ll be walking about five hours per day, with the trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) as one of the highlights. From its summit, you’ll see Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier—the largest in Nepal. If daily hiking isn’t for you, scenic helicopter tours to the lakes are also an option.

Before heading into the Gokyo Valley, Peak15adventure team will make a stop in Namche Bazaar for proper acclimatization and gives you time to hike to Khumjung Village, home to the school founded by Sir Edmund Hillary. Namche itself remains a lively hub for climbers and trekkers, full of stories and camaraderie from people around the world.