The Gokyo Lakes are a series of six glacial lakes at altitudes between 4,700m and 5,000m on the Ngozumpa glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. The main lake, Dudh Pokhari (4,790m), sits below the village of Gokyo at the edge of the glacier, its turquoise water a surreal contrast to the grey moraine and brown valley walls. From the Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,360m) above the village, the panorama takes in Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu — four of the world's six highest peaks — in a single sweep.
The Gokyo trek is the main alternative to the Everest Base Camp route and is considered by many trekkers to offer better overall scenery. The route branches from the main EBC trail at Namche Bazaar, heading west up the Dudh Koshi valley through Dole and Machhermo before reaching the lakes. It takes about the same time as the standard base camp trek. The approach walk over the Ngozumpa glacier moraine to reach the upper lakes is challenging but not technical.
The Three Passes circuit — crossing the Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La — combines the Gokyo route with the Everest Base Camp trail into a demanding 18–20 day loop. The Cho La crossing (5,420m) requires basic glacier skills; crampons are often necessary, and a guide is recommended.