Gokyo Chola Pass Trek (5,402m)

Highlights Of The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

– Witness breathtaking views of Mount Everest from the summit of Gokyo Ri.
– Immerse yourself in the sparkling beauty of Gokyo Valley’s glacial lakes.
– Experience serenity while trekking through lush, less-traveled trails in the Gokyo Valley.
– Feel the thrill of the exhilarating flight into Lukla, with its dramatic mountain scenery.
– Marvel at the picturesque landscapes featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and vibrant meadows.
– Explore ancient Buddhist monasteries and gain insight into the unique Sherpa culture and traditions.
– Discover the diverse wildlife and bird species of Sagarmatha National Park, including rare Himalayan animals.
– Visit Tengboche Monastery, the oldest and largest in the region, and partake in spiritual offerings.
– Enjoy close-up views of towering snow-covered peaks, cascading icefalls, and rugged cliffs. Along the way, admire historic chortens, gompas, colorful mani walls, and spinning prayer wheels.
– Explore the pristine Gokyo Lakes and the majestic Ngozumpa Glacier while soaking in panoramic views from Kalapatthar and Gokyo Peak.
– Traverse iconic locations on the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp, including Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Cho La Pass, Gokyo Lake, and Gokyo Ri.

Additional Features Of The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

– Benefit from the expertise and support of a highly experienced trekking team.
– Pass through Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital, renowned for its culture and hospitality.
– Admire spectacular Himalayan landscapes throughout the journey, from start to finish.
– Experience the unique combination of trekking through the Gokyo Valley and reaching Everest Base Camp.
– Encounter rare Himalayan wildlife such as musk deer, red pandas, snow leopards, and mountain goats (locally known as “Jharal”).
– Be captivated by stunning views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters), Mount Makalu, Mount Cho Oyu, and Mount Lhotse.
– Begin your adventure with a scenic mountain flight to Lukla (2,800 meters), offering awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas.

What Makes The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek Famous?

Embarking on the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp is both a challenging and fulfilling adventure. This route offers some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the Everest region of Nepal. Combining the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, the Cho La Pass crossing, and the scenic Gokyo Lake Trek, this journey presents a perfect blend of natural beauty, thrilling experiences, and cultural exploration. The region, adorned with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, moraines, and traditional Sherpa villages, is a paradise for trekkers.

The trek’s popularity is largely attributed to the opportunity to visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). Typically, trekkers begin by heading to Everest Base Camp during the initial phase, but some opt for a clockwise approach, starting with Gokyo Valley and its pristine lakes. Despite these variations, the anti-clockwise route remains the safest and most common choice.

This trek is a rare opportunity to witness the grandeur of nature firsthand. Along the way, you’ll pass the remarkable Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in the Nepal Himalayas, and cross the high-altitude Cho La Pass (5,330 meters). In addition to iconic sites such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Gorak Shep, and Everest Base Camp, the trek also includes the serene Gokyo Lakes, making it a truly comprehensive Himalayan adventure.

Starting at Lukla, the journey leads through the Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest. Trekkers will marvel at the sparkling glacial lakes of Gokyo Valley and can ascend Gokyo Ri, a vantage point offering panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. The highlight of this route is crossing the formidable Cho La Pass (5,420 meters), which rewards adventurers with sweeping vistas of the Himalayas. This section of the trek demands a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience but offers unmatched rewards for those who undertake the challenge.

Beyond the physical and natural marvels, the trek provides insights into the traditional Sherpa way of life. Along the trail, trekkers can visit monasteries and experience the rich cultural heritage of this mountain region. Walking through the Khumbu Glacier, the largest in the Himalayas, is a truly unforgettable experience, as is traversing the Ngozumpa Glacier, another massive and spectacular glacial formation.

Compared to other treks in the region, the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is more technical and adventurous. While most days involve walking 5–6 hours, some sections can stretch to 8–9 hours, requiring endurance and determination. The journey starts and ends with flights to and from Lukla, ensuring maximum time is spent in the mountains. Proper acclimatization is crucial, and Namche Bazaar serves as an ideal spot for this, with opportunities to take short hikes to Syangboche for early views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.

The trail also meanders through rhododendrons and pine forests, crosses cascading waterfalls, and passes through high-altitude pastures adorned with prayer flags and chortens. A notable highlight is the steep ascent to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), which offers breathtaking views of Everest and other towering peaks while preparing trekkers for the demanding Cho La Pass crossing.

Gokyo Valley is home to five stunning lakes, with the third lake being the most prominent. Trekkers often spend the night along its shores, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscapes. A hike to Gokyo Ri further enhances the trek, offering both unforgettable views and a valuable acclimatization experience.

This trek is a true test of stamina and an ultimate adventure for those seeking a blend of natural wonder, cultural richness, and physical challenge. From its scenic trails to its majestic peaks, the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp is an experience that leaves an indelible mark on every trekker’s soul.

Destination:	Nepal
Maximum Altitude:	5,420 meters
Best Season:	Spring, Autumn & Winter
Trip Grade:	Medium Level
Group Size:	1 – 15 people
Duration:	18 Days

Included

-Airport pickup, drop and all ground transport by private vehicle.
-Standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast as per itinerary.
-Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodations throughout the trek.
-Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the Gokyo Chola pass and
Everest Base Camp trek.
-All necessary paper works for Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and TIMS
card.
-A highly experience and knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well
trained, Government License holder Sherpa guide with his salary, food,
drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
-Friendly and helpful porters with proper walking equipment, his salary,
foods, accommodation and insurance (one porter for two people).
-Comprehensive medical box (first aid kit will be available).
-Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance
Company).
-Government taxes and official expenses.
-Emergency life saver oxygen and mask support.
-Guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour with private vehicle.
-Assistant guide group size more than 4 person group.
-Welcome and farewell dinner in typical Nepalese restaurant.

Excluded

-International Airfare from and to Kathmandu.
-Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan
International Airport – Kathmandu). $25 USD for 15 days Visa.
-Your Travel and Medical Insurance.
-Meals during your stay in Kathmandu Lunch and Dinner as per itinerary.
-Your Personal Expenses and trekking equipment for the trek.
-All the alcoholic and non alcoholic cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you
choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the Tea Houses)
-All desserts sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
-Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
-Tips for the guide, porter and driver (Tipping is expected)
-Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees.
-Excess baggage more than 12 kg. (If you have extra baggage you can leave in
Kathmandu office with full safety)

The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Once you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel in a private tourist vehicle. After settling in, you can either take some time to rest or visit us to discuss the itinerary and plan for the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu

Day 2: Flight from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Lukla (2,840m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Your adventure through the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp begins with a 30 to 40-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. During the flight, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna and Langtang Himalayan ranges. After arriving in Lukla, you’ll trek towards the Thado Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. A gentle descent of about an hour will bring you to the village of Chheplung, where you’ll catch a glimpse of Mt. Khumbila (5,761m), a sacred peak that remains unclimbed. The trek continues with a gradual descent to Phakding, where you can visit the Pemacholing and Rimishung Monasteries.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Distance: 7.8 kilometers

Day 3: Trek from Phakding (2,610m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

After breakfast in Phakding, the trek continues along the Gokyo Cho La Pass via Everest Base Camp route. The journey involves a mix of ascents and descents, with multiple river crossings and stunning views of Mt. Thamserku (6,608m) near Bengkar village. You’ll pass through Monjo Village, dense forests, and rugged trails on your way to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. After registering your permits, you’ll enter the forest, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Continuing past the village of Jorsale, the trek leads you across the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. From Namche Bazaar, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Tawache.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 10.4 kilometers

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Today is dedicated to rest and acclimatization in Namche Bazaar before continuing on the Everest Base Camp trek with the Gokyo Chola Pass. Namche Bazaar is a vibrant hub in the Khumbu region, offering amenities such as bakeries, restaurants, ATMs, and internet cafés. You can start the day by visiting viewpoints like Thame or Khunde, offering scenic vistas. A stop at the Tourist Visitor Center provides insights into the history of Everest climbers, Sherpa culture, and local traditions.

For those seeking more adventure, a trek to the Everest View Hotel is an excellent option. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of peaks like Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho-Oyu, Thamserku, and others. After exploring, you’ll return to Namche for the evening. Along the way, you might visit a museum, art gallery, or nearby Sherpa villages, immersing yourself in the local heritage.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m) to Tengboche (3,860m)

After breakfast in Namche, your journey along the Everest Base Camp trek with the Gokyo Chola Pass route continues toward Tengboche. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Mt. Thamserku. The path alternates between smooth stretches and occasional zigzags, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and vibrant pheasants.

The trail leads through a serene pine forest before crossing a prayer flag-adorned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. After some trekking, you’ll arrive at Phungi Thanga, a small village nestled in an alpine forest, home to a few teahouses and an army post. Continuing onward, you’ll reach Tengboche, where you can visit the famous Tengboche Monastery. Here, you’ll witness the monks performing a traditional ceremony, adding a spiritual touch to your adventure.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 9.2 kilometers

Day 6: Trek from Tengboche (3,860m) to Dingboche (4,410m)

Start your day in Tengboche with a stunning sunrise, revealing panoramic views of peaks such as Kangtega, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Taboche, Kwangde, Lhotse, Nuptse, and more. Today’s trek takes you along the Imja Khola River, descending through serene birch and rhododendron forests to reach the riverbed.

Along the way, you’ll stop at a Buddhist nunnery in Deboche and pass several chortens before arriving at Pangboche, where breathtaking views of the Himalayas await. The trail then ascends from the lush Pangboche region to the barren and rugged landscape of Shomare, marking a noticeable shift in vegetation. As you approach Orsho, you may catch a glimpse of Mt. Pumori’s distinct coronal crest. Finally, you’ll arrive at Dingboche, a cold and windy village where you’ll settle in for the night.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Distance: 9.1 kilometers

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410m)

Today marks your second acclimatization day as part of the 14-day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary. With the increasing altitude, it’s essential to rest and allow your body to adapt while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. You can spend the day exploring Dingboche and nearby villages like Chhukung and Imja or opt to conserve energy for the upcoming trek.

For those seeking short hikes, options include Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) or Chhukung Ri (5,546m). Reaching the summit of Nagarjun Hill offers stunning panoramic views of peaks like Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lobuche, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and others. After your explorations, return to Dingboche to prepare for the next stage of your journey.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 8: Trek from Dingboche (4,410m) to Lobuche (4,910m)

The day begins with a climb through the Khumbu Khola Valley towards Duglha. As you near Dusa, the valley narrows, and the terrain becomes more challenging, with steep mountains and large boulders lining the path. Along the way, you’ll pass several memorials adorned with prayer flags and stones, honoring climbers who lost their lives on Mount Everest expeditions.

Soon, the route to the Gokyo Lakes and Cho-La Pass comes into view, alongside striking peaks like Khumbutse (6,636m), Lingtren (6,749m), and Pumori (7,161m). The rugged and hilly landscape on the trek to Lobuche can be physically demanding, but the journey is rewarding with its stunning vistas. Lobuche itself is a small settlement with limited tea houses, where you’ll rest for the night.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Distance: 7.9 kilometers

Day 9: Trek from Lobuche (4,910m) to Gorakshep (5,140m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m), then return to Gorakshep

After breakfast in Lobuche, the trek continues to Gorakshep, a journey of around 2 to 3 hours. This is a special day on your 16-day Gokyo Cho La Pass via EBC trek as you’ll finally reach Everest Base Camp. Upon arriving in Gorakshep, you’ll have lunch before embarking on the 3 to 4-hour trek to Everest Base Camp.

At Everest Base Camp, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of peaks like Nuptse, Khumbutse, and Pumori. The atmosphere at the base camp is awe-inspiring, offering a sense of accomplishment and unparalleled natural beauty. After soaking in the views and capturing memories, you’ll trek back to Gorakshep, where you’ll spend the night.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Distance: 11 kilometers

Day 10: Trek from Gorakshep (5,140m) to Kalapatthar (5,555m) and then to Dzongla (4,830m)

The first leg of your Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp comes to a close today. After an early morning, you’ll begin with a hike to Kalapatthar to witness the sunrise. It takes a few hours to reach the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. From Kalapatthar’s 360-degree vantage point, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Khangtega, Lobuche Peak, Everest Base Camp, as well as the Khumbu Glacier and Icefalls.

Take your time to savor this breathtaking scenery, capturing memories and photos that will last a lifetime. Afterward, return to Gorakshep to collect your belongings, then retrace your steps back to Lobuche. The journey continues with a trek along a scenic route to Dzongla.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Distance: 11.5 kilometers

Day 11: Trek from Dzongla (4,830m) to Thagnak (4,750m) via Cho La Pass (5,367m)

Rise early to take in the stunning views of Cholatse as the day begins. The challenging part of the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via EBC starts after leaving Dzongla, descending into a basin and passing through dense spur woods. As you climb back up, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Chola Lake and the towering Mt. Ama Dablam. The ascent becomes more demanding as you navigate rocky terrain and winding Bergschrund trails.

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The descent to Thagnak is relatively easy unless the rocks are covered in ice, which could make the path hazardous. Thagnak will be your stop for the night, offering a well-deserved rest after a strenuous day.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Distance: 9.4 kilometers

Day 12: Trek from Thagnak (4,700m) to Gokyo (4,750m)

Today, you’ll begin your journey early in the morning to continue the Everest Base Camp trek with the Gokyo Cho La Pass route, crossing Nepal’s longest glacier, the Ngozumpa Glacier. As you make your way closer to the far side of the glacier, you’ll catch sight of the second Gokyo Lake, one of the six pristine lakes in the region.

The Gokyo village is located by the edge of the third lake, near the second, providing a stunning and tranquil setting.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Distance: 2.7 kilometers

Day 13: Trek from Gokyo (4,750m) to Dhole (4,200m)

Today’s trek begins with a descent from Gokyo, crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier and reaching the Dudh Koshi River. The relatively short trek takes you past the first and second Gokyo lakes, offering splendid views of towering peaks like Cholatse, Taboche, and others.

As you continue, you’ll descend gradually towards Machhermo, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Cho Oyu, Kangtega, and Thamserku. The trail then continues through the villages of Luza and Lhafarma before reaching Dole, where you’ll spend the night.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Distance: 18 kilometers

Day 14: Trek from Dhole (4,200m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Today marks the final leg of your Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via EBC, with your journey beginning in Dole and ending in Namche Bazaar. As you descend, you’ll notice a shift in the landscape, with more diverse vegetation and wildlife. The first stop is Phortse Thanga, followed by Mong La, before continuing with a moderate descent to Namche.

Along the way, you’ll bid farewell to the stunning views of peaks like Mount Khumbila, Taboche, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Everest, and Tengboche. The trek concludes in Namche, where you’ll spend the night at a tea house.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 12 kilometers

Day 15: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m) to Phakding (2,610m) and then to Lukla (2,840m)

On the final day of your Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via EBC, you’ll begin with a steep descent. The trail to the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River requires careful, steady steps through rocky terrain. As you move along, you’ll pass through open fields and rhododendron forests, with distant views of snow-capped peaks.

The journey continues through charming villages like Jorsalle, Monjo, Phakding, and Chheplung, before finally reaching Lukla. Here, you’ll spend the night at a tea house, reflecting on your incredible adventure.

Accommodation: Tea house or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Distance: 15.7 kilometers

Day 16: Flight from Lukla (2,840m) to Kathmandu (1,400m)

On the final day of your journey, you’ll leave the Everest region behind. Start the day by exploring the local area around Lukla before savoring a hearty breakfast. Your Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via EBC concludes with a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. The flight, just like the landing, offers stunning views and is a memorable experience.

After arriving in Kathmandu, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax, explore, or celebrate the successful completion of your trek.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Flight duration: 30 to 40 minutes
Distance: 138 kilometers

Day 17: Final Departure

On your final day, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the airport in a private tourist vehicle, with a departure scheduled three hours before your flight. If you wish to extend your journey, alternative programs are available for exploration.

Meals: Breakfast