Most trekkers see only the first three Gokyo lakes. Heading north from Gokyo village, the trail follows the western edge of the Ngozumpa moraine over grassy ablation valleys, gently gaining height. After about 1.5 hours you reach the fourth lake, Thonak Tsho, at around 4,870 m, a quiet, deep-blue lake with views of Cho Oyu growing larger ahead. Yaks graze here in autumn, and you may see Himalayan tahr on the slopes.
Another hour brings you to the fifth lake, Ngozumpa Tsho, at about 4,990 m, beneath the cliffs of the moraine. Climb onto the ridge to the east, known as Scoundrel's Viewpoint, for a sweeping view: the south face of Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Gyachung Kang (7,952 m), the Ngozumpa icefall, and across the glacier to Everest and Lhotse. It is often windless and silent, with no lodges or other groups.
Return to Gokyo the same way. With stops, the round trip takes 5 to 6 hours and climbs about 300 m, which is excellent acclimatisation before the Cho La or Renjo La. Carry lunch, water and warm layers, as there are no lodges past Gokyo. Beyond the fifth lake, a sixth lake lies further north towards Cho Oyu base camp, but reaching it makes a very long day and is rarely included.
Good for
- Photographers
- Solo
- Couples
Questions travellers ask
How many lakes are there at Gokyo?
There are six main Gokyo Lakes, plus many smaller ponds, spread along the western side of the Ngozumpa Glacier at about 4,700–5,000 m. Gokyo village sits on the third and largest, Dudh Pokhari. The fourth and fifth lakes make a good day hike.
What is Scoundrel's Viewpoint?
A moraine ridge above the fifth Gokyo lake at about 5,000 m, with a close view of Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang and the Ngozumpa Glacier, and Everest across the ice. It is quiet and rarely visited compared with Gokyo Ri.
How long is the hike to the fifth Gokyo lake?
About 2.5–3 hours each way from Gokyo village, so 5–6 hours return including time at the viewpoint. The trail is gentle but at altitude, gaining around 300 m. Carry lunch and water.
