The best months for Gokyo are October to November and March to May. Winter is cold and the passes are snowy, while the monsoon brings cloud and rain to the lower valley.
December to February
Very cold, with frozen lakes and snow. Skies are often clear but some lodges at Gokyo close or run limited services. The passes are not recommended, and even the walk up needs a good sleeping bag and warm clothes.
March and April
Spring starts with cold nights and warming days. April is busy and offers good views and rhododendrons in the lower forests. The lakes may still be partly frozen early in the season, and colour improves as the ice melts.
May
Warmer, hazier and still popular. Pre-monsoon cloud builds in the afternoon, so start early for views. Flights can be disrupted by cloud, and trails can be muddy in the lower sections.
June to September
Monsoon rain and cloud dominate. The lower valley is wet and leeches are present. Views are limited and flights are often delayed. Few trekkers go, so Gokyo is quiet, but the Ngozumpa glacier and lakes are often hidden in cloud.
Lake colour and light
The Gokyo lakes look their brightest in the dry months, when the sky is clear and the water is calm. In October the colour is a deep turquoise, in spring it is paler as ice melts, and in the monsoon it is hidden by cloud. If photography matters to you, plan for the morning hours.
Passes and conditions
Renjo La and Cho La are best crossed in October, November, April and May. Fresh snow after a storm can close either pass for a day or two. Ask your guide about recent conditions and be ready to wait.
October and November
The prime season. Skies are clear, the lakes are turquoise and the trail is busy in October. Nights are cold and November is quieter. See the best time guide for a closer comparison.
Ice on the lakes
Lakes may freeze in winter. In spring and autumn the water shows its colours.
Spring and autumn compared
Autumn brings stable weather and clear views of the lakes. Spring offers warmer days and some afternoon cloud. Both are good. Winter is very cold and some lodges close.
Ice and snow
Lakes can freeze in late autumn and early spring. Fresh snow can make the trail slippery, so poles and good boots help.
