Besides Gokyo Ri, the best day walks from Gokyo follow the lakes north towards the fifth lake and look over the Ngozumpa glacier. They are quieter than the summit climb and help with acclimatisation if you have a spare day.
The line of lakes
Gokyo village sits beside the third lake, called Dudh Pokhari by many local guides. Paths continue along the western side of the valley towards the fourth and fifth lakes, which are smaller and much quieter. Water colour changes with the light, from deep green to bright turquoise.
The fifth lake walk
The walk to the fifth lake climbs gently beside the glacier moraine to about 5,000 m. It usually takes a half day for the round trip. The reward is a wide view of the upper Ngozumpa glacier and the peaks at the head of the valley, including Cho Oyu.
The glacier edge
The Ngozumpa is the longest glacier in Nepal and is covered with rock and debris. From the ridges you see its grey, broken surface and small meltwater ponds. Do not walk on the glacier itself without a guide: the ice under the debris is unstable and crevasses can be hidden.
A good acclimatisation day
A walk that climbs a few hundred metres and returns to sleep at Gokyo is the classic "climb high, sleep low" plan. It prepares you for Gokyo Ri if you did not rest a night at Machhermo, and it is gentler than starting straight on the summit climb.
What to carry
Take water, a windproof layer, sun protection, a snack and a headtorch. Distances look short in the thin air but take longer than they appear. Turn back if clouds close in or if you feel unwell.
Quiet time
Many trekkers visit Gokyo for the summit and leave. The lakes reward a slower stay. Early morning and evening are the calmest times, and you may meet only a few other walkers on the fifth lake path.
Plan it
See the 12-day Gokyo Ri itinerary for where a rest day fits, and Gokyo Lakes guides for the wider trek.
