Gokyo Lakes Nepal Postcard

Gokyo Lake, or more accurately the Gokyo Lakes, is a series of pristine glacial lakes nestled high in Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park, in the Everest region. Situated at altitudes between 4,700 and 5,000 meters (15,400–16,400 feet), these turquoise-blue waters are among the highest freshwater lake systems in the world and are fed by the Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest in the Himalayas. The village of Gokyo, located beside the third and largest lake (Dudh Pokhari), serves as a popular stop for trekkers on the Gokyo Valley route, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Cho Oyu and, from nearby Gokyo Ri, panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The Gokyo Lakes are not only a natural wonder but also hold deep spiritual significance. They are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists, with pilgrims visiting the site during the Janai Purnima festival each August to bathe in the icy waters. The surrounding area is rich in alpine wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and various high-altitude bird species. Trekking to Gokyo Lakes offers a quieter alternative to the main Everest Base Camp route, with the added reward of seeing these shimmering, glacier-fed jewels framed by towering Himalayan giants.