Gokyo Ri
Four 8,000 m peaks above the Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) rises above Gokyo village and gives a sunrise view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu, with the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier below.
Why Gokyo Ri is known
View of four 8,000 m peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu
Bird's-eye view of the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier
Classic sunrise hike from Gokyo village
Many trekkers rate it above Kala Patthar
Acclimatisation hike before Renjo La
About Gokyo Ri
Gokyo Ri (5,357 m / 17,575 ft) is the hill that rises directly above Gokyo village and the third Gokyo lake. It is one of the great viewpoints of the Himalaya: from the top you can see four of the world’s fourteen 8,000 m peaks at once — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu — together with the Ngozumpa Glacier and the chain of turquoise lakes below.
The climb
The trail starts by crossing the stream at the end of the lake, then zig-zags straight up the grassy, rocky slope. It is steep but not technical, and most trekkers reach the prayer flags in 2 to 3 hours, then return to Gokyo in about an hour. There is no water or shelter on the way.
Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise is the classic choice: the air is usually clearest early in the morning, and the first light reaches Everest’s summit while the valley is still in shadow. Sunset can also be beautiful, but clouds often build in the afternoon. Bring your warmest layers — it is often well below freezing at dawn.
Gokyo Ri or Kala Patthar?
Kala Patthar puts you closer to Everest, but Gokyo Ri shows more: four 8,000 m peaks, the lakes and the full length of the Ngozumpa Glacier. On the Everest Three Passes Trek you climb both.
Highlights
- Watch sunrise light up Everest's summit
- See four 8,000 m peaks in one panorama
- Look down on the turquoise Gokyo Lakes
- Follow the Ngozumpa Glacier with your eyes for miles
- Help your body acclimatise before Renjo La
Location
Open in Google MapsFrequently asked questions
How high is Gokyo Ri?
Gokyo Ri is 5,357 m (17,575 ft), about 570 m above Gokyo village.
How long does it take to climb Gokyo Ri?
Most trekkers take 2 to 3 hours to reach the top from Gokyo and about 1 hour to come back down.
Which mountains can you see from Gokyo Ri?
Four 8,000 m peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu, plus Cholatse, Taboche and many others, with the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier below.
Is Gokyo Ri better than Kala Patthar?
Kala Patthar is closer to Everest; Gokyo Ri shows a wider panorama with four 8,000 m peaks, lakes and a glacier. Many trekkers prefer Gokyo Ri. On the Three Passes Trek you climb both.
Should I climb Gokyo Ri at sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise is best: the sky is usually clearest early and the first light hits Everest's summit. Afternoons often bring cloud. Dress very warmly for the dawn climb.
Is Gokyo Ri difficult?
It is steep but non-technical. The main challenge is the altitude, so climb slowly and turn back if you feel unwell.
Do I need a guide for Gokyo Ri?
The path is clear, but you will already be trekking with a licensed guide in the Everest region, and they will lead the pre-dawn climb.
Is there anything to buy on Gokyo Ri?
No. Bring water, a snack, a thermos of tea and spare camera batteries; there is no shelter on the hill.
