Overview
Gokyo Chola pass Everest Base Camp Trek, an adventure that takes you to scenic areas of the high Khumbu valley. One of the most picturesque and photogenic places to enjoy the experience in the harmony of a beautiful location. Gokyo Lake and the scenic valley, are actually vast summer pastures and grazing fields for yaks before the arrival of trekkers.
A great place to visit where views of Snow Mountains abound, along with Ngozumba the longest glacier in Nepal Himalaya. At Gokyo, a hike to high Gokyo-Ri at 5, 357 m for a panorama of the world's four highest mountain ranges.
Overlooking Mt. Everest, Lhotse with Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Cho-Oyu includes views of the whole wonderful valley of Gokyo. Gokyo Lake is situated amidst of high Renjo-La pass in the south with Cho-La towards the east that leads to Everest base camp.
Gokyo with five beautiful shimmering glacial lakes, the main Gokyo 3rd Lake also known as Dudh Kund the source of the Dudh Kosi River. From Gokyo enjoy great times, then head towards Cho-La pass at 5,420 m /17,780 feet to reach Everest base camp.
Gokyo Lake Everest Base Camp via Chola pass trek, a perfect combination of 18 days of trekking within high Khumbu. Starts with a panoramic flight from Kathmandu to land at Lukla's small airstrip, at Lukla where most treks start and end.
Due to being the only airport around Khumbu and Everest region, the shortest way to reach your destinations. The walk leads through many nice Sherpa villages lined with prayer walls, an interesting to notice the local immense culture of Buddhism.
The trail follows the Dudh Kosi River for a few days, then the climb begins winding uphill to Namche Bazaar. A large village and major hub of trekkers, and mountaineers, as well as all of Khumbu Sherpa’s livelihood, depends on the Saturday market. Held once a week, a lively bazaar to observe and get to know the local culture of great interest.
A great large village Namche Bazaar, where one can find the most necessary facilities in the close backdrop of Kwangde and Tharmasarku peaks. The walk continues from Namche Bazaar overlooking lovely views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Amadablam, as the route diverts towards Gokyo valley. On leaving behind the main busy popular trail of Namche to Everest base camp, a climb leads up to Mong Hill.
The adventure continues towards the Dudh Kosi River gorge, and then the country opens into a wide scenic valley to reach the beautiful Gokyo valley. After spending overnight stops in the small settlements of Dole and Machhermo before Gokyo and its glacial lakes.
Enjoy the time of your life around this beautiful spot with a climb of high Gokyo-Ri for an extraordinary panorama of the snow mountains range. From Gokyo valley, the adventure takes you to the high Cho-La Pass, a barrier between Gokyo and the eastern side of the Everest region.
A steep climb to the top of Cho-La from a small place of Thagnak, the pass marked with Buddhist prayer flags. Your great effort is rewarded with grand views of the Snowy Mountains at a close distance, the nearest peak Cholatse. After a refreshing stop, the mountain trail leads to a long descent where the main path of Everest base camp joins.
Completing the first phase of the adventure, a pleasant walk takes you to Lobuche and then to the last settlement of Gorakshep. From here on the road towards the final destination to Everest base camp within remorseless fields of ice and glaciers.
Succeeding in our goals and visiting both highlights of the adventure return journey on the main trails to Lukla. A pleasant walk mostly downhill with a short up, the last highlight of the trip is visiting beautiful Tengboche. Where tour leads you to the monastery interior that impresses all visitors, its serene environment facing views of high mountains.
After a great moment head back to Lukla, walking past Namche Bazaar for the last final overnight stay around the high Khumbu valley. The next morning a swift short scenic flight brings you to ever-exciting Kathmandu. Where our remarkable and fascinating Gokyo Lake To Everest Base Camp via Cho-La pass of the 18-day trek, finally concludes.
Best Seasons for Gokyo Lake To Everest Base Camp trek:
Gokyo Lake To Everest Base Camp trek, best in springtime from March to May, and in autumn starts from September to November.
Springtime is lively with longer daylight hours for pleasant walks, as well as for scenic views when flowers are in seasonal bloom. Cold morning and nighttime, could snow sometimes.
Next, the best season is autumn from mid-September to November to pre-winter in December. When days are clear with blue sky, but short sunlight hours, can be very freezing cold in the morning, late afternoon, and nighttime.
Can get snowed sometimes but a beautiful day for walks and marveling at the grand views of the mountains.
Gokyo Chola passes Everest Base Camp Trek Preparation:
Before going on the EBC Trek to Gokyo Cho La Pass, you must be physically and mentally prepared. No worries if you already have trekking experience, however, if you are new you are advised to take some short walks, do daily exercises to increase your stamina and muscle strength, and do some treks if possible.
The EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek is a difficult journey in the Khumbu area and proper preparation is required before starting the trek. In addition, you need to make sure that all the gears are in good shape, and that you are carrying the right things with you. You can check our packing list for Chola Pass trekking or contact us for more detailed information.
Food at EBC Trekking at Gokyo Cho La Pass:
Your Everest Three High Pass trek includes three meals a day. The menu will be quite simple, but freshly cooked and clean. You can enjoy typical Nepali, Tibetan, and Sherpa food as well as all kinds of international food.
Dinner and breakfast will be provided at the teahouse/lodge where you will spend the night. Lunch will be served at the tea shop on the way to the destination.
Gokyo Cho La Pass EBC Trekking is a Tea House/Lodge Trek:
The cost of your package includes accommodation. Hiker Himalaya Treks takes great care to provide the most comfortable accommodation possible during your stay. During the trek, the nights will be spent in clean and comfortable tea houses with plenty of character and good food.
Ordinary rooms usually have two narrow beds. Family-run lodges are a great place to meet Nepali people. In Nepali culture, the guest is considered equal to the deity, and this has become a reality as the tourism industry has improved its meager income opportunities. You will be very welcome!
Drinking Water at Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trekking:
We suggest you drink boiled water or bring a chlorine tablet to purify the normal water available at guest houses along the way. A small fee is charged for boiled water.
Although mineral water is available in many places, there is no system for throwing away plastic bottles, so we encourage guests to do what they can to protect the environment.
Equipment & Packing List for Gokyo Chola pass with Everest Base Camp Trek:
This list outlines the required things to bring during the Gokyo Cho la pass with Everest Base Camp Trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by our porter. However, you are required to carry a small day-pack with your valuables or anything important. We advise you to pack only what is necessary.
Important Items: Airline tickets; Valid passport; 2 extra passport size photos; Photocopy of your passport; Insurance paper; Dollars, Pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying at restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks and to purchase your own drinks and gifts; Credit Card (Visa/ Master Card) for withdrawing cash from cash machines if needs.
For Head: Sun Hat; Bandana or head scarf; Headlamp with extra batteries; Sun Glasses with UV protection.
For Upper Body: Shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves); Lightweight thermal tops; Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater; Wind Cheater jacket; Down Jacket
For Lower Body: 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms; 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers; 1 pair of waterproof shell pants and 1 pair of hiking trousers.
For Hands: 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves and 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
For Feet: 2 pairs of thin inner socks; 2 pairs of poly or wool socks; 1 pair of Hiking boots (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support); 1 pair of running shoes and/or sandals.
Other Useful Items: 1 sleeping bag (good to -20 degrees C or 28 degrees F); Rucksack and Travel Bags; 1 large duffel bag *; A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables; Small padlocks for duffel- bags; 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional).
Medical: Your daily taking medicine if any; small personal first aid kit; Aspirin, plasters (band-aids); Sunscreen; lip balms; Anti-diarrhea pills; Anti-headache pills; A cough and/or cold medicine; Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide; Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin.
Digital camera; 2 water bottles (1 liter each); disposable rubbish sacks; Toiletries: 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel; Toothbrush/paste; Multi-purpose soap; Deodorants; Nail clippers; Face and body moisturizer; Tissue /toilet roll; hiking poles, snack food (chocolate/ biscuits); umbrella; reading book or pack of cards (for leisure time during trekking).
Note: If any items are not available in your hometown you can buy them in Trekking Store in Kathmandu before you embark on trekking.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu via respective airlines:
Everest Base Camp with Chola Pass tour begins with your arrival at Kathmandu international airport terminal. You will be welcomed by our staff and transferred to your respective hotels in the hub of Kathmandu around the fascinating area of Thamel.
After relaxing and having refreshments you will be briefed about the hotels, Nepali culture, and mostly about the trek to Everest Base Camp with the Cho-la pass. At night, you will be offered a warm welcome dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant. After dinner, you may enjoy the folk cultural program and authentic Nepali cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel at Kathmandu, Distance: 5 Kilometers from Airpot to Thamel
Day 2 : Sightseeing around Kathmandu:
In the morning, after breakfast, you can prepare your trekking gear and bags for the coming trek. You will be briefed about the trek by your guide who will also help you to plan and assist in making the packing list.
After the preparation is done, you can go sightseeing around the world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. You can choose to visit the Courtyards of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan Durbar square. You may also visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swoyambhunath.
Meals: Breakfast, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel at Kathmandu
Day 3 : Fly to Lukla 2,820 m & trek to Phakding 2,640 m -04 hrs:
Early in the morning after breakfast, you will leave for Lukla on the domestic flight. The flight is one of those that is unforgettable since the landmass below changes drastically from green to snow-covered white. After the 35-minute flight lands in Lukla, you will see views of Everest and other surrounding mountain ranges.
You can then begin the trek toward Phakding. The trail heads downhill and then passes through several nice Sherpa traditional Phakding villages by the glacial river Dudh Kosi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Pakding, Distance: 6.4 kilometers (Lukla-pakding)
Day 4 : Trek to Namche Bazaar 3,440 m -05 hrs:
After breakfast, you will begin your trek through the beautiful alpine woodland of pines and rhododendron trees. Throughout the trail, you will get views of snowcapped peaks on the backdrop. After following a river upstream and crossing several bridges you will enter the Sagarmatha National Park through Monjo.
Sagarmatha national park is a national park situated at the highest elevation in Nepal. After crossing the last high bridge you will hike uphill and reach Namche Bazaar which is a lovely town village. The specialty of Namche is perhaps the availability of modern facilities like Climbing/Trekking shops, Cyber Cafes, post offices, ATM, etc which makes it easier for the trekker to communicate. One of the most dominant views is of the Kwangde peaks towards the south.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Namche Bazaar, Distance: 7.5 kilometers
Day 5 : Rest day at Namche Bazaar:
This day has been set aside for acclimatization. Since there is a drastic change in the elevation, you might succumb to altitude sickness. Thus to avoid it, resting at Namche Bazaar is vital. On this day you can visit the nearest museum at Namche for information about the Khumbu region. The different cultures, histories, flora, and fauna of the Namche region will definitely keep you busy on this day.
You can hike further up to see the views of the mountains like Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtenga, Kwangde, and Khumbi-la along with the wonderful Mt. Everest and Lhotse towards the North. enjoy beautiful see snows mountains, green hills, and information about sherpa culture and history.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse Namche Bazaar, Distance: 3.8 Kilometers
Day 6 : Trek to Dole 4,110m - 06 hrs:
On this day, you will take the trail toward Kyangima near Shanasa. Along the path, you might spot the colorful Danphe pheasant (Impeyan Pheasant) which is the national bird of Nepal. If you are lucky enough you might even spot the elusive musk deer, and Himalayan Thar (mountain goat) as well.
The route then heads north with a slow climb to the ridge at Mong 3,973 meters. Eventually, you take a sharp descend and follow your way alongside Dudh Kosi at Phortse Thangka. The walk then continues to ascend through a patch of rhododendron forest.
You will then enter a forest with juniper and conifers trees towards Tongba village at 3,950m and Gayle at 3,960m. After reaching Dole you can spot the mesmeric views of Khumbila and Tawache at 6,542m.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Dole, Distance: 12 Kilometers
Day 7 : Trek to Machherma 4,470m -04 hrs:
You will begin your day by following the trail toward Machherma. You will walk along the valley on a modern trail towards Lhabarma Kharka which sits at an elevation of 4325m. Eventually, you will head up to Luza and then cross a ridge from where you will see the views of Machherma.
You can hike uphill for panoramic views of Mt. Cho Oyo and the Ngozumba glacier.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Machherma, Distance: 5.1 Kilometers
Day 8 : Trek to Gokyo 4,800m -04 hrs:
On this day, you will head towards the wonderful Gokyo Lake. On the trail, you will walk across Pangka at 4545m. After the rocky climb, you will pass the first lake on the way and then the second lake.
Then you will reach the third lake which is Dudh Pokhari. You will then stop at the bank of Gokyo which has a summer settlement. It offers a mesmerizing view of the emerald Gokyo Lake and the mountain ranges surrounding it.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Gokyo Lake, Distance: 6.8 Kilometers
Day 9 : Rest day at Gokyo, hike to Gokyo Ri 5,357m:
This is a rest day at Gokyo since your body will have been tired after the challenging long trek. Also, it is best to acclimatize your body against possible altitude sickness. You will hike your way up to the Gokyo Ri which is a sight that is not to be missed at all.
From the Gokyo Ri, you will get mind-boggling views of Mt. Cho Oyo, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Cholatse, Gyachung, and more peaks that are considered the highest in the world.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Gokyo Lake, Distance: 1.9 Kilometers
Day 10 : Gokyo to Thaknak 4,750m - 04 hrs:
In the morning, after breakfast, you will head towards Thaknak, leaving behind the mesmerizing Gokyo. You will get closer to the Chugyuma/ Chola-la pass which is close to the Nha Village.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Thaknak, Distance: 3.7 Kilometers
Day 11 : Cross Cho-la 5,367m and trek to Dzongla 4,830 m -07 hrs:
Early in the morning at dawn, you will begin your hike to Chola-La pass. The trail takes a long ascend and leads to a rocky moraine. It is a challenging day since you will have to walk on the heavy snow and ice.
Upon reaching the cross, you will pass through up-close views of Nirekha, Taboche, and Cholatse. After enjoying the views, you will then take a hard climb and then descend to Dzong-la which is a small valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Dzongla, Distance: 12.23 Kilometers
Day 12 : Trek to Lobuche 4,940 m - 05 hrs:
From Dzongla you will set out towards Lobuche. The pleasant walk takes you to Thugla which is located midway from the Pheriche valley, Dingboche, and Chola pass. You need to stay overnight at Lobuche in order to reach Everest Base Camp the next day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Lobuche, Distance: 4.6 kilometers
Day 13 : Trek to Gorakshep 5,170 m and Everest Base Camp 5,364 m and return to Gorakshep - 06 hrs:
Early in the mooring after breakfast, you can head towards Gorakshep. The views of Mt. Pumori, Khumbutse, and Mt. Everest will be clearly visible ahead of you along the trail. After around 2 hours you will reach Gorakshep then walk on moraine and icy trails to reach the 4-5 nice lodges.
After this, you will not find any lodge facilities in the trail ahead. Eventually, you will continue towards the moraine overlooking the Khumbu icefall and then head to Everest Base Camp. The incredible views of the Base Camp will certainly keep your enthusiasm high. After that, you will head back to Gorakshep.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Gorakshep, Distance: 4 kilometers from Lobuche to Gorakshep, and 3.3 kilometers from Gorakshep Everest Base Camp.
Day 14 : Hike to Kalapathar 5,545m trek to Pheriche 4,280m - 05 hrs:
After having the exquisite views of the mountain ranges from Everest Base Camp, you will set out to amplify the experience by hiking towards Kalapatthar. Kalapatthar which is the highest point of the adventure is a hilltop on a black rocky ridge of a hill.
Kalapatthar stands at 5545 m and offers panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Mt. Cho Oyo, Cholatse, and Taboche in all directions. After the awesome feeling of getting up close to the mountains, you will head towards Gorakhshep and continue towards Pheriche valley.
Pheriche is a temporary settlement with more than 20 lodges and teahouses. Stay overnight at the lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Pheriche, Distance: 9.8 kilometers from Gorakshep to Pheriche, and (1.2, from Gorakshep to Kalapatthar)
Day 15 : Trek to Namche Bazaar via Pangboche 3,900 m and Thyangboche, 6-7 Hours:
On this day you will be heading towards Namche Bazar from Thyangboche. You will take a long and pleasant walk on the downhill trail to enter Thyangboche after Shomare. After that, you will pass Pangboche village with an hour of the climb towards Thyangboche.
You will walk along tree lines and rich green vegetation and then hike downhill short steep climb near Namche. Eventually, you will reach Namche Bazaar. Here you can get all the facilities required for communication and refreshment.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Namche Bazaar, Distance: 14.3 kilometers
Day 16 : Trek back to Lukla - 07 hrs:
On this day, you will head back to Lukla from Monjo near the Sagarmatha National Park exit. Along the path, you will be surrounded by the scenery as the mountains will eventually get distant from you. Eventually, after a short uphill climb, you will reach Lukla where you will stop overnight. You can enjoy some local meals and drinks along with your Nepali friends.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, Accommodation: Teahouse at Lukla, Distance: 14.2 kilometers
Day 17 : Fly back to Kathmandu:
On this day, you will fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla as you bid farewell to the Khumbu region. The 35-minute Flight will take you across the snow-blanketed Himalayas from the Tenzing Hillary Airport and then eventually to the green hills of Kathmandu valley.
You can take a rest in the evening or can go souvenir shopping around Thamel. You might even enter the pubs in the area to get a taste of the nightlife in Kathmandu.
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner, Accommodation: Three-star category Hotel Kathmandu
Day 18 : International departure for homeward bound:
You will be bidding farewell to lovely Nepal after the wonderful Everest Base camp with the Chola Pass trek. You will be dropped off at the Tribhuvan International Airport by our staff. As you head home you will reminisce about the pleasing time that you spent in the landscapes of Nepal.
We trust you made some incredible memories with us. Thank you, and have a safe journey home.
Meal: Breakfast Included.
