The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is a perfect trekking destination for those trekkers who are looking for a more technical challenge, as it provides more adventure options if we compare it to other trekking regions. While you are on this trek, you get to cover different locations, which are Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Gorak Shep, and Everest Base Camp, which is regarded as a well-known attraction in this region. Additionally, it adds an extra dimension by taking you to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, which involves a challenging climb over the high-altitude Cho La Pass (elevated at 5,330 meters).
The trek involves some days of walking that are quite long, lasting between 8 and 9 hours, although most days are shorter, around 5 to 6 hours. It's a must do adventure, perfect for those who are physically fit and love exploring. Starting and ending the journey with flights to and from Lukla gives you more time to enjoy the mountains. However, it's crucial to acclimatize properly to the high altitude. This acclimatization is done in the well-known Namche Bazaar. Then, you can choose to take a short and steep walk to Syangboche. This is where you'll see Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku up close for the first time.
During this adventure, you'll get to explore Khumjung Village and the Khumjung Hillary School, a project started by Sir Edmund Hillary to help the Sherpa community. The path will lead you through beautiful forests with rhododendron and pine trees, past a lovely waterfall, and across high pastures decorated with chortens (Buddhist shrines) and colorful prayer flags. As you get closer to the Ngozumpa Glacier, your hard work will pay off when you see three amazing Gokyo Lakes, famous for their clear blue waters, after a tough and steep climb.
One of the best parts of the trip is the challenging climb to Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters, where you'll see incredible views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. This climb not only treats you to amazing mountain scenery but also helps your body adjust to the high altitude before you tackle the demanding Cho La Pass.
To cross the path successfully, you will need to start your day really early, usually around 4 or 5 in the morning. It's a tough day, especially when you reach the highest point of the pass at over 5,300 meters. Some parts of the paths even take you over icy areas, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime achievement!
This feeling of accomplishment continues as the journey leads you to Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, and Kalapatthar, also known as Everest View Point. While this trek does have its challenges with long and physically demanding days of walking, the rewards are well worth it in terms of personal satisfaction and a fantastic collection of photos. If you're not a fan of trekking but still want to experience Gokyo Cho La Pass and Everest Base Camp, you might want to think about taking an Everest Base Camp helicopter tour.
Feel free to contact us for any inquiries or additional details about this remarkable trekking adventure. Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you with all your questions and booking needs.
Our Gokyo Chola-Pass EBC Trek is priced at US$1530 per person, offering you a hassle-free and unforgettable trek. This all-inclusive package covers your stay in comfortable teahouses and lodges along the route, allowing you to fully engage with the local culture. You'll enjoy three hearty daily meals to keep you energized throughout the journey. Plus, our team of seasoned and certified trekking guides and porters will be by your side, guaranteeing your safety and well-being at every turn.
Included in the price are essential trekking permits and fees, convenient airport transfers in Kathmandu, flight expenses from Kathmandu to Lukla, and all in-country transportation. If you require trekking equipment, we offer rental choices too.
Please keep in mind that the total cost could fluctuate based on factors such as the season, the size of your group, and any extra services or personalized options you might need. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for a detailed cost breakdown and to explore potential special deals. Our goal is to offer you a clear and delightful trekking adventure in the Everest region.
Holiday Planner Treks and Expedition offers an online booking system designed with user-friendliness and security in mind, allowing our clients to save precious time.
In situations where unforeseen circumstances prevent you from participating in your trek, we are dedicated to assisting you in rescheduling your journey rather than outright cancellation.
Our trip itineraries are highly flexible and can be designed according to your preferences and availability.
The well-being of our clients remains our topmost priority, and we are committed to providing you with nutritious and hygienic meals throughout the trek.
Our team includes certified guides with extensive knowledge of the Everest Region, ensuring they are well-equipped to address any challenges you may encounter during your trek.
At your request, we can arrange both public and private transportation options for your convenience.
We maintain well-stocked medical kits to meet any potential requirements throughout the journey.
With two decades of experience, we take pride in our track record of achieving 100% client satisfaction.
Upon the successful completion of your trek, we organize a farewell dinner to celebrate your accomplishment.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our team members will warmly welcome you with a traditional garland as a sign of respect and in keeping with our cultural tradition of welcoming our guests. Following this warm reception, our staff will help you in transferring you to your hotel. After your potentially tiring journey, you can relax and take a short rest. Subsequently, our manager will visit you at the hotel to discuss the details of your travel itinerary.
In the morning, you will take a beautiful short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is up in the mountains at 2800 meters high. The flight is quite scenic and takes around 30–40 minutes. Once you land in Lukla, your trekking adventure begins. You will start walking towards a place called Phakding. At first, you'll walk downhill to reach a river called Tharo Koshi, also known as Kusum Kangru Khola. To cross this river, you will use a suspension bridge covered with prayer flags, which adds a cultural touch to your trek. After that, you'll go uphill to a village called Ghat and then keep climbing until you reach Phakding. In Phakding, you will have a chance to visit a monastery called Gompa, which sits up on a hill. From there, you can see the tall and majestic mountains in the distance.
You'll stay overnight in Phakding.
On this day, your journey starts by following the Dudh Koshi River until you reach a place called Zamphuti, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Thamserku peak. Afterward, you will hike up to Chomoa, an area known for farming projects that offer a fascinating glimpse into the local farming life. Continuing your trek, you will climb uphill to enter Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, which was established in 1976 and covers an area of 1148 square kilometers. This park entry point is at Monjo, situated at an elevation of 2840 meters. As you ascend, you'll be treated to towering mountain panoramas until you finally reach Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is a busy mountain town situated at an altitude of 3,420 meters above sea level. It serves as a central hub for trekkers and adventurers in the Everest region. During your stay in Namche Bazaar, you will spend the night at a guesthouse, where you'll be provided with meals including lunch, dinner, and breakfast.
Today, we will have a rest day to help our bodies adjust to the higher altitude. It's an excellent opportunity for some short excursions. One option is to hike to the Everest View Hotel, which offers beautiful views of towering mountains like Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Lhotse. You can also explore the Khumjung valley, visit the Hillary School and Khunde Hospital, and then return to Namche. Also, during your rest day at Namch, you can take some time to connect with the friendly Sherpa and Rai people, learning about their unique culture and way of life.
Today's plan is to walk to Dole, which will take about five to six hours. We'll begin with a somewhat steep climb to reach the top of Namche Bazaar. From there, we'll have a more relaxed and easier walk to Kyanjuma, where we can enjoy beautiful views of big mountains like Ama Dablam. After Kyanjuma, we'll leave the path that leads to Everest Base Camp and start a steep climb to reach Kyanjuma. Then, we'll go downhill to Forche Thanga before gradually going uphill again to reach Dole. Along the way, we'll pass through a forest with beautiful rhododendron flowers.
We'll spend the night in Dole.
Today's trek is relatively short, lasting only about three hours, making it feel like a rest day. The path involves a gentle and gradual climb. If you wish, you can visit the HRA (Himalayan Rescue Association) office, where the doctor can provide information about altitude sickness. Don't be overly concerned about altitude sickness; sometimes, it can make tourists unnecessarily anxious.
You'll spend the night in Machermo.
This is the big day you've been waiting for on your journey. It will take about four to five hours of walking to get to Gokyo. What makes the Gokyo Valley trek special is that it's known for its high-altitude lakes. There are many lakes here, and you'll find lots of hotels to stay in. The path to Gokyo is not too steep, so it's a comfortable hike. When you get there, you'll see some incredibly beautiful views of Cho Oyu, a massive mountain that's more than eight thousand meters tall. Enjoy the amazing scenery in Gokyo and spend the night at a hotel.
Today is a day of rest, which is essential for acclimatization. Your activity for the day is a hike up to Gokyo RI, a trek that takes about three hours to reach the summit. The views from the top are nothing short of incredible, and you'll feel like you've entered a different world up there. You'll have the opportunity to gaze upon the towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the impressive Cho Oyu, right in front of you. Afterward, return to Gokyo for lunch and explore the lakes and the surrounding hills.
You will spend the night in Gokyo.
Today's trek is relatively short and not too difficult, lasting about three hours. You'll start by going up a bit, then down a little, and eventually you'll walk on a glacier. Be careful while walking on the glacier because it can be slippery and uneven. During this adventure, take a moment to enjoy the amazing view of Cho Oyu, which is one of the tallest mountains in the world. The scenery from here is really beautiful and gives you a special view of this massive peak. At the end of the day, you'll arrive in Thagnak, where you can relax and get ready for the next part of your journey in the Himalayas.
Today will be a challenging day with around seven to eight hours of walking, so it's essential to start early, around four or five in the morning. The path initially involves an uphill climb, followed by a descent, and then a challenging ascent to reach Chola Pass. You should be very careful when you reach the top, as the path narrows and becomes rocky, with a risk of falling stones. Once you've conquered Chola Pass, capture some memorable photographs with your companions. After descending from the pass and enjoying the stunning views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Everest, Makalu, and more, have lunch in Zongla, and then continue for about three hours to reach Lobuche, where you'll spend the night.
As your journey continues, you will head to Gorak Shep, which sits at an elevation of 5160 meters. The trek to Gorak Shep will take about three hours and involves a gradual climb. Once you arrive at Gorak Shep, it's time to prepare for the highly anticipated adventure to Everest Base Camp. The path to the base camp can be challenging, with rocky terrain, narrow passages, and occasional gusts of wind. This day is a dream come true, as you've traveled all the way to Nepal with the goal of reaching Everest Base Camp at least once in your lifetime. Don't forget to capture those precious moments with your fellow travelers and friends.
Afterward, you'll retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep, where you'll spend the night.
Today's hike involves a challenging ascent to Kalapathar, also known as Black Rock, situated at an altitude of 5545 meters. This climb typically begins early in the morning and is followed by a descent to Pheriche. Kalapathar is a relatively small peak, but it offers one of the most spectacular views of Mount Everest without the need to actually climb it. The sight of Everest from Kalapathar is remarkably close and creates a truly memorable experience. After accomplishing this remarkable feat, you'll descend back to Gorak Shep, have breakfast, and then commence your descent to Pheriche for some well-deserved rest.
On this day, you will trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar, passing through various villages and landscapes while descending to lower altitudes. It's part of the journey back to lower elevations, where there's more oxygen and the opportunity to recover from the effects of high altitude.You'll retrace your steps along the same route, passing through Pangboche, Tengboche, Fungethanga, Lausasa, and Kyanjuma. If you're fortunate, you might spot some wildlife and birds along the way, such as the Himalayan Thar, Blue Sheep, and Musk Deer. This is a time to celebrate as the reality of your journey sinks in. You'll spend the night in Namche Bazaar, where you can enjoy a refreshing warm shower.
Today is the last day of your trek, where you will be walking downhill through beautiful countryside and lovely villages like Jorsalle, Monju, Banker, Phakding, Ghat, and others. This is your last night in the mountains, so make it special and memorable.
Typically, you'll have an early morning flight, so make sure you're ready to head to the airport. After boarding, you'll enjoy another pleasant 45-minute flight back to Kathmandu. Our guide will accompany you and assist in transferring you to your Kathmandu hotel. In the evening, our manager will meet with you and arrange a farewell dinner to conclude your journey.
Today, our driver will drop you off at the International Airport for the final departure. I wish you a nice and safe journey back home.
The Gokyo-Chola EBC Trek is a renowned trekking route in Nepal's Everest region that combines the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, the demanding Cho La Pass, and a journey to the iconic Everest Base Camp.
Typically, the trek lasts approximately 16-17 days, depending on your starting and ending points, as well as your pace.
The beat seasons for the Gokyo-Chola EBC Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is relatively stable, and visibility for scenic views is excellent.
The highest point of the trek is the Cho La Pass, which stands at an elevation of around 5,420 meters (about 17,782 feet) above sea level.
Yes, you'll need permits to access both Sagarmatha National Park and the Gokyo Lakes area. Be sure to obtain these permits in Kathmandu or the relevant checkpoint.
This trek is considered demanding due to the high altitudes and steep, rocky terrain, particularly when crossing the Cho La Pass. It's essential to be in good physical shape and acclimatize properly.
Your trekking essentials should encompass warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a high-quality sleeping bag, necessary trekking gear, a first-aid kit, and all required documents. For further information on the list of packings, you can check out the additional information that is given below.
Yes, you will find teahouses and lodges in the villages along the Gokyo-Chola EBC Trek route, eliminating the need to carry heavy backpacks or camping gear.
Both options are available. Some trekkers choose for independent trekking, while others choose to hire experienced guides and porters for added safety and convenience.
Adequate acclimatization is crucial. This involves a gradual ascent, staying well-hydrated, and being aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Consulting with a doctor before the trek is advisable if you have health concerns.
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency medical situations, and helicopter evacuation, given the remote and challenging nature of the trek.
Before going on this memorable trek to Gokyo Chola-Pass EBC Trek, make sure to have the proper equipment and gear that will help you complete your trek without any trouble. To make sure you have a great time, we've put together a list of gear that's just right for this trek:
You will be landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our team will be there with a board showing your name. You will get a friendly welcome with a marigold flower. Afterward, you will be comfortable traveling to your hotel in a private car. This way, you will not feel alone in a new place.
The Gokyo Chola-Pass EBC The trek lasts for 16 days, and you will spend 15 nights in some of the best lodges in the Everest region. You will get the facility of a private bathroom in your room in Lukla, Phakding, and Namche. The lodges where you will be staying provide you with the facility of hot showers for a very small fee. However, you might need two extra hotel nights before and after the trek, but please note that these are not included in the package.
Talking about the electricity, you will have full access to it in the lodges in the Everest region where you will be staying. You can use the electricity to recharge your camera and mobile devices, but there is a fee for this service. You also get access to water in different stores where you can buy bottled mineral water. If required, we can provide you with water purification tablets to ensure safe drinking water. However, be careful not to drink water directly from rivers, taps, or wells, as it might not be safe for drinking.
The best season for the Gokyo Chola-Pass EBC Trek is generally considered to be the spring and autumn seasons:
Spring Season (March to May): Spring offers mild and stable weather with blossoming rhododendron forests and clear skies. The temperatures are gradually warming up, and the trekking paths are filled with vibrant colors.
Autumn Season (September to November): Autumn is another ideal time to undertake this trek. The weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are pleasant. The paths are also less muddy, making for a comfortable trekking experience.
These seasons provide the best conditions for trekking, offering excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures. However, if you're well-prepared and experienced, it's possible to trek in the Everest region during other seasons as well, but be prepared for more challenging weather conditions.
The Gokyo Chola-Pass EBC Trek known as a challenging but fulfilling adventure.
Joining the challenging Gokyo-Chola EBC Trek in Nepal means facing the difficulties of high-altitude trekking, possible altitude sickness, and unpredictable weather changes. To participate, you must have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency services, including helicopter rescue and evacuation up to 5,500 meters.
While we can offer suggestions for insurance companies based on past trekkers' experiences, we don't sell insurance policies ourselves. After booking the trek, please provide us with detailed insurance information. In case of emergencies, we'll use your insurance policy and documents to organize fast rescue operations and emergency medical assistance. It's crucial that your insurance includes coverage for mountain rescue services at the trek's highest elevation points.
Andy Longely
30th Dec, 2022
We booked ours trek trek Gokyo Chola Pass + EBC with Holiday Planner Trek which was successfully completed with good help from amazing staff. The trek was fantastic indefinitely the best thing I have done my entire life. We received extraordinarily good service from my guide and porter. They were both very supportive and nice and speak very well, we felt safe during the trekking time into the mountains. The accommodation and food was good and we were enjoyed every single second of ours trip. We absolutely recommend this trekking company Holiday Planner Trek any one who are planning trekking in Nepal.
Adreac Fitter
7th Aug, 2023
We booked our EBC/Kala Patthar + Gokyo Ri through Cho La Passwith HOliday Planner Treks which was successfully completed with good help from amazing staff. The trek was fantastic and definitely the best thing I've done my entire life! we received extraordinarily good service from my two guides . They were both very supportive and nice and talked in very good English, and we felt safe during the entire trip. The accommodation and food was also good and we enjoyed every single second of the trip. We absolutely recommend Holiday Planner Treks to everyone who wishes to do a similar trek, and I certainly will book with them again!!
Vanessa Fletcher
14th Sep, 2022
I am a 59 year Australian professional female with no former trekking experience and completed the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo and the Chola Pass in late November 2019 I chose to use the services of Holiday Planner following my extensive research of Nepalese trekking companies which included follow-up with former clients in Australia. The service I received from Eak Lal with Holiday Planner from day one of our contact was outstanding. His professional manner and genuine and sincere interest in assisting and supporting me made my planning for this trek an absolute pleasure. Three weeks before departure my female trekking companion was taken ill and had to cancel her trip. All support and assistance during this difficult period was most reassuring and I left Australia on my own feeling very confident that all my expectations would be met. And they were! My guide and Sherpa were simply wonderful! I found parts of the trek very challenging, especially the Chola Pass as it started snowing as we commenced the ascent. I would not have been able to complete this challenge without the constant support, encouragement and infinite patience of my guide; he was indeed my "Guardian Angel"! My comfort and safety were always his utmost priority and his level of local knowledge and experience proved incredibly useful. Eak lal, thank you so very much as you went way beyond the requirements of your job role to assist me. This was an unforgettable and very spiritual experience for me. I feel that part of my spirit still resides in Nepal and I will certainly be returning to this very special part of the world. I will always use the services of Holiday planner for my future trekking needs. I highly recommend the services of the professional team at Holiday Planner to anyone going to Nepal.
Vanessa Fletcher
14th Sep, 2022
I am a 59 year Australian professional female with no former trekking experience and completed the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo and the Chola Pass in late November 2019 I chose to use the services of Holiday Planner following my extensive research of Nepalese trekking companies which included follow-up with former clients in Australia. The service I received from Eak Lal with Holiday Planner from day one of our contact was outstanding. His professional manner and genuine and sincere interest in assisting and supporting me made my planning for this trek an absolute pleasure. Three weeks before departure my female trekking companion was taken ill and had to cancel her trip. All support and assistance during this difficult period was most reassuring and I left Australia on my own feeling very confident that all my expectations would be met. And they were! My guide and Sherpa were simply wonderful! I found parts of the trek very challenging, especially the Chola Pass as it started snowing as we commenced the ascent. I would not have been able to complete this challenge without the constant support, encouragement and infinite patience of my guide; he was indeed my "Guardian Angel"! My comfort and safety were always his utmost priority and his level of local knowledge and experience proved incredibly useful. Eak lal, thank you so very much as you went way beyond the requirements of your job role to assist me. This was an unforgettable and very spiritual experience for me. I feel that part of my spirit still resides in Nepal and I will certainly be returning to this very special part of the world.I will always use the services of Holiday planner for my future trekking needs.I highly recommend the services of the professional team at Holiday Planner to anyone going to Nepal.
