Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek - 16 Days

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Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek - 16 Days
  • Duration16 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
  • Maximum Altitude 5550m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Size 1-16
  • Accommodation Hotel in Kathmandu and Teahouses in Mountains
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
  • Best Season March-May and September- December

One of the most challenging and adventurous treks in the Mt. Everest region is the journey that connects Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake via the Cho La Pass. This trek offers stunning views of the world’s highest peak, including the picturesque Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri (5467m), Everest Base Camp (5356m), and the famous Mt. Everest Sunrise Viewpoint (Kalapathar, 5545m). For trekkers looking to enhance their Everest Base Camp experience, this trek is an ideal choice.

The adventure begins with a scenic 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which marks the start of a 16-day trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass. The trek follows a route that first takes you to Kalapathar and Everest Base Camp, then leads you over the Cho La Pass to the serene Gokyo Lakes. The trek's high point includes a spectacular view from Gokyo Ri, where trekkers are treated to panoramic vistas of the Gokyo Valley, the Ngozumpa Glacier, and the towering peaks of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest itself.

For many adventurers, reaching Everest Base Camp is a bucket-list goal, and the rewards are clear. The awe-inspiring views of Everest and other mighty peaks as you trek along the base of these snow giants are unforgettable. Adding the Gokyo and Cho La Pass routes only enhances the experience.

The Gokyo Lake, Kalapathar, and Everest Base Camp Trek demand excellent physical condition, as trekkers will need to navigate rugged terrain for up to 6 to 7 hours daily. Don’t worry if you're concerned about your physical fitness—our expert guides and support staff are here to assist you, ensuring that the trek matches your interests and abilities while keeping safety a top priority. We will also ensure proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

Despite the challenges, trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake is not overly difficult as long as you follow basic guidelines. However, altitude sickness (AMS) and severe weather conditions can present obstacles. Rest assured, heli-rescue services are available in emergencies.

Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty


The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is known for its rugged terrain and high-altitude conditions. The trek includes some of the most iconic and thrilling elements of the Everest region, such as crossing high mountain passes and reaching Everest Base Camp—the base of the world’s tallest peak. The primary challenge of this trek is the altitude. As you ascend to greater heights, the air becomes thinner, leading to a drop in oxygen levels. To avoid health risks, proper acclimatization is essential. Our itinerary includes strategic acclimatization days to mitigate this risk.

Additionally, crossing the Cho La Pass presents physical and technical challenges. The pass can be steep and icy, particularly during certain seasons. Trekking poles are highly recommended to assist with balance and stability. Weather conditions also fluctuate, making it vital to prepare for freezing temperatures, snow, and rain, particularly during winter or monsoon months.

Overall, while the Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is demanding, it offers unmatched beauty and adventure. Proper preparation, physical fitness, and mental determination will help you tackle the terrain and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trekkers should be in good health and have prior trekking experience to fully enjoy the trek and ensure safety.

Best Time to Trek to Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek


The weather in the Everest region can be unpredictable, so selecting the right season is crucial for optimal trekking conditions. The best times to trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

Spring Season: This period is considered ideal for trekking. As temperatures rise and the weather clears, the forests bloom, offering lush greenery and fantastic Himalayan views.

Autumn Season: This is the peak tourist season, marked by clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Autumn also coincides with Nepal's vibrant festivals, adding cultural richness to your trek. It's highly recommended to plan your trip during this season, as you may also benefit from festive discount offers.

While summer months are less recommended due to heavy rain and slippery trails, All Nepal Hiking can arrange alternative trekking routes during this time for those who can only visit Nepal in the summer.

Foods During Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek

During this high-altitude trek, maintaining good nutrition is essential to sustain your energy levels. All Nepal Hiking ensures you receive a balanced, high-calorie diet daily, with a wide selection of options to suit different dietary preferences, including vegan meals. Whether you have food allergies or restrictions, we are committed to meeting your nutritional needs for a safe and enjoyable trek.

Accommodation During the Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek
Accommodation along the 14-day trek is a combination of comfort and simplicity. In lower-altitude areas such as Namche, Phakding, and Lukla, you can select from a variety of room options. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes for acclimatization, your options may become more limited, with most accommodations offering twin-sharing rooms. The team at All Nepal Hiking ensures that you stay in the best available tea houses, offering both comfort and excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

Extraordinary Views During Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek


The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is a feast for the eyes. Nepal is home to eight of the world’s 14 peaks over 8,000 meters, and this trek offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and more. As you trek through the region, the views of these majestic peaks will leave you in awe and make the effort worthwhile.

Permits Required During Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek


Two essential permits are required for this trek in the Everest region:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required for entry into Sagarmatha National Park, which includes Everest Base Camp. The cost is NPR 3,000 per person.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: This permit covers the trekking route through the Khumbu region. The cost is NPR 2,000 per person.

These permits support conservation efforts and help fund local communities. Make sure to obtain these permits before starting your trek.

Highlights
  • Remarkable Gokyo Valley and crossing Cho La pass
  • A stunning 35-minute flight between Kathmandu and Lukla.
  • Namche Bazaar, gate to Everest
  • Khumjung Sherpa Village,
  • A glimpse into the life of the “mountain people” living in the heart of the Himalayas.
  • Remarkable views of the Khumbu Icefall on the slope of Mt. Everest.
  • Climbing Mt. Kalapatthar (18,225 feet) is the most accessible point from which to view Mt. Everest from its base camp to its peak. Cho La Cross and Gokyo Ri Peak climbing
  • The views from Mt. Kalapatthar include a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountain peaks.
  • Arriving at Everest Base Camp and walking on the Khumbu glacier.
Itinerary

Upon your arrival, a representative from all Nepal Hiking will receive you at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA). Our representative will transfer you to your hotel and briefly explain the trek. You may ask our guides if you’ve any queries regarding the trek. Our staff will also assist you with trek preparation. In the evening, you may enjoy the Kathmandu night around your hotel.

  • Max. Altitude:1300m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:40 mins driver

Early in the morning, we fly from Kathmandu to Lukla: a panoramic view of Nepal's eastern part of the Himalayas. Langtang, Gauri Shanker, Numbre, Manglungtse, and finally, Everest appear during this flight of 30 minutes. The trek begins with a short descent to the valley of the Dudh Kosi. From the village of Chaunrikarka (2621 m), the path heads north through the Sherpa villages, where they grow wheat, potatoes, corn, and vegetables. We cross the Dudh Kosi on a suspended wooden bridge.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:2600m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:30 mins, 4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day begins with a walk along the Dudh Kosi. The path rises gently. On several occasions, we cross the river, pass the village Jorsale (2805 m) then begin a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar. Half an hour later, we can see Everest. We arrive at Namche early to learn about the famous Sherpa village and its inhabitants. Some shops and traders sell Tibetan jewelry and handicrafts from Tibet. Each week is an important market in Namche where farmers sell their crops around wheat, maize, millet, etc.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:3440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast,, Lunch, Dinner

Acclimatization and rest in Namche (3440 m). Visit the Sherpa capital, depending on market day and Tibetan shops.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:3440m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We climb above Namche Bazar by a gently sloping path on the mountainside to the Col de Mong view Ama Dablam and Kantega, two of the most spectacular peaks of Nepal. We then descend to Phorte Trenga to 3600 m at the edge of the Milky River ( Dudu Khosi ). This allows a leisurely day of acclimatization to the altitude.

  • Max. Altitude:3600m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We climb steeply through rhododendrons, junipers, and conifers. This part of the trek is wonderful in spring when the rhododendrons bloom. Along the way, we meet many huts used in the summer when the Mountaineers take them to graze their herds of yaks. Some of these huts are occupied until the end of December. We pass through the villages of Tongba pastures (3960 m), Gyele ( 3960 m), and Lhabarma ( 4220 m). The view is beautiful, Tawoche Khumbila, and all during the day.

  • Max. Altitude:4450m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We regularly rise view of Cho Oyu, which rises to 8135 m, a fortress of snow and ice. We spend Pangka to 4390 m, then descend to the riverfront to back to the terminal moraine of the glacier Ngozumpa. We reach the first lake at 4720 m. We discover a second lake, 4690 m, and finally, we arrive at the Gokyo Lakes at 4750 m. Gokyo is a place for grazing yaks, consisting of seven huts.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:4750m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This is by climbing a small peak above the lake, we get the best view of the Everest region. The ascent of this peak is easy; it takes about 2 hours. From the top, the idea is unforgettable; the highest peaks of the Earth are here: Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, Everest, and Cholaste Tawachee. We then descend to Dragnak, where we spend the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4700 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We descend to Tajung Tso and cross the moraine of the glacier Ngozumpo. We arrive at Thangnak and then gradually climb up the Cho La Pass. The descent is gradual until Dzonglha.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:4860m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We arrive at Lobuche. Superb views of Nuptse , Pumori , Lobuche Peak and Langtren .

 

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:4930 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:3 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch Dinner

We skirt glacier Khumbu; the climb is relatively easy to Gorakshep. Installation at the lodge and in the afternoon can be an optional excursion to the base camp of Everest and back to Gorakshep.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:5364 m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an early morning start, we ascend Kala Pattar (18,450 feet) and enjoy famous views of the Himalayas without having to climb Everest! We will enjoy tea and breakfast in the morning before our parting view of Everest and our descent. We head down the glacier and reenter the lush and beautiful valleys, surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks. Upon reaching the village of Pheriche, you can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association’s Aid Post.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:4350m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:9 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we trek back along the Dudh Kosi River through a magnificent rhododendron forest and past brilliant waterfalls. Before reaching Namche, the trek takes us through a pine forest, where musk deer often graze in the early morning. Arriving in town, we may see lowland porters, highland Sherpas, and Tibetan people trading food and supplies during Namche’s market time. We stay at the Hotel with hot showers and a comfortable bed.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:3400m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, where we spend the night at a Lodge.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:2800m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Departure Morning flight to Kathmandu. On a clear day, the view is superb on the Himalayas. Transfer to the hotel. In the evening, we'll treat you to a farewell dinner.

 

 

  • Max. Altitude:1300m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:30 mins flight and 40 mins drive
  • Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

If you're returning, then we will drop you at the Tribhuwan International Airport for your onward flight.

 

 

  • Meals:Breakfast

Here are some essential tips and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable Everest Base Camp trek:

  1. Physical Conditioning: Prioritize your physical fitness and endurance. Regularly engage in exercises like hiking, running, and strength training to prepare your body for the trek's physical demands.

  2. Acclimatization: Allocate sufficient time for acclimatization during the trek. Ascend gradually and include rest days to help your body adapt to higher altitudes and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

  3. Pack Wisely: Keep your backpack as light as possible by packing only the essentials. Remember that you'll be carrying it throughout the trek.

  4. Layering: Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Bring warm clothing for chilly nights and higher elevations, as well as lightweight attire for lower altitudes.

  5. Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated by drinking ample water and carry water purification tablets. Maintain energy levels with balanced meals during the trek.

  6. Quality Gear: Invest in high-quality trekking gear, including comfortable boots, appropriate clothing, a warm sleeping bag, and a waterproof jacket. Don't forget essentials like a headlamp, sunglasses, and a hat.

  7. Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and potential medical emergencies.

  8. Weather Preparedness: Be ready for unpredictable weather changes. Pack rain gear and be prepared for varying weather conditions.

  9. Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to your body's signals and communicate any health concerns to your guide. Prioritize your well-being throughout the journey.

  10. Enjoy the Experience: Take time to savor the stunning scenery, cultural interactions, and the camaraderie of fellow trekkers. The Everest Base Camp trek is a unique and unforgettable adventure, so make the most of every moment.

Notes: The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is redirected to Ramechhap due to traffic congestion and a high influx of tourists during the high season. The high tourist season in Nepal is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In the season of tourism, there are many international and domestic flights operating in different sectors which is more than capacities of the small Tribhuban international airport. Due to this reason, there is the problem with air traffic and delays in Lukla flights too. Lukla flights are only in the morning time and it does not fly during day time due to heavy wind and foggy weather on the way to Lukla. If the flights are from Ramechaap, there is no issue of air traffic and flight duration is also less than from Kathmandu. Flight to Ramechhap will add 5 hours approx. to your journey. It seems like an added inconvenience but let’s see the brighter side

Route Map
Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek - 16 Days map
Cost Details
Includes
  • All airport/hotel transfers
  • 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu
  • Farewell dinner
  • All accommodations and meals during the trek
  • Pickup and drop to start your trek and from the ending point to your Hotel In Kathmandu or your destination
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (6 trekkers: 1 assistant guide), and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
  • All Nepal Hiking duffel bags, and a trekking map (The duffle bags are to be returned after trip completion)
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National Park permit, TIMS)
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes
Excludes
  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary
  • Early check-ins and late Check out 
  • Travel Insurance
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa: You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.  (A multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US$ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
  • Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks and water, soft drinks, etc.
  • Hot showers during the trek (it's payable some places)
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Sleeping bags and down jacket ( can be rented)
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is respected but it is not obligatory)
Departure Dates
Select a Departure Month
Trip Date PriceStatus 
Start DateStartsFeb 02, 2025End DateEndsFeb 17, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 04, 2025End DateEndsFeb 19, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 07, 2025End DateEndsFeb 22, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 07, 2025End DateEndsFeb 22, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 12, 2025End DateEndsFeb 27, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 13, 2025End DateEndsFeb 28, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 16, 2025End DateEndsMar 03, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 18, 2025End DateEndsMar 05, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 21, 2025End DateEndsMar 08, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
Start DateStartsFeb 28, 2025End DateEndsMar 15, 2025PriceUS$1399StatusAvailable
FAQs

  • Though you can see a few non-vegetarian items on the menu of the tea houses. We strongly recommend staying on a vegetarian diet throughout the trek. Fresh meat aren't available at the trekking region. 

  • Trekking is the combination of the two trekking routes: Gokyo and EBC.

    So, the length of this trekking is longer than these two individual treks. 
    The length from Lukla to EBC is 65 km while hiking to EBC via Gokyo Lake is approximately 130 km. 

  • EBC Via Gokyo Lake trekking takes a longer time than average trekking. It covers the two separate trekking destinations, Gokyo and Everest Base Camp.

    The different agency offers different time for this trek. It may vary between 16 days and 24 days. The standard time of the trek is 21 days.

    You can choose the days provided by different agencies as you see fit. All Nepal Hiking provides the customization of days you want. However, we recommend you the standard 19 days trekking in the route. There are other several aspects that can decide the cost of trekking to Everest Base Camp. All Nepal Hiking provides a special package at just $1499 per person.

  • Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake Trekking is comparatively considered tougher than EBC Trek only. But it is less difficult than Island Peak Climbing and Mera Peak Climbing.

    You will pass through the Cho La Pass which roads are challenging but rewarding.

  • When to do it?

    The best time to do this trekking is Spring and Fall which avoid the monsoon season. The Spring months include March, April, and May while post-monsoon aka Fall includes October, November, and December.

    The weather during this time is the best as well as you can enjoy a clearer view of the mountains.

    When not to do?

    Though you can go there in Winter and Monsoon, it is not recommended as the weather will be more challenging. In winter, from December to February, it is extremely cold but you can enjoy the clear skies and mountains too.

    And during the monsoon, from June to August, there is a high chance of landslides and muddy roads.

Clients Reviews
TripadvisorTrustpilotGoogle
  • green star

    Great trip!

    Jasmine power 24 hours!
    Great trip and arrangement!!
    Had to be rescued, altitude is really something, and it went smooth.

    A
    Aurora Dias LIndonesia,Nov 2024
  • green star

    10 out of 10 EBC and Goyko Lake experience

    My husband and I completed the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass with All Nepal Hiking and had the best experience. From the start Jasmine was an incredible resource for all the logistics leading up to the trip, she went above and beyond to take care of us and customize our experience. Jasmine is very well connected and was able to get us a helicopter to Lukla when other operators were bottlenecked. She is also a lovely person we enjoyed getting to know!

    Our guide for the trek was Dinesh and our porter was Raja. We could not have done the trek without either of them. From the start they took such good care of us, kept us at a good pace avoiding any altitude sickness but still making good time with safety as the number one priority. It was no easy feat carrying our bags 80+ miles but Raja crushed it and went above and beyond with customer service and making us laugh along the way.

    Dinesh was professional and hospitable and taught us how to play Dhumbal our new favorite card game! I was struggling with some of the vertical descents on narrow pathways but he was right by my side the entire time taking care of me. Dinesh is very kind and compassionate, we plan to do future treks with him and consider him a good friend after our experience.

    Highly recommend All Nepal Hiking, their staff is incredible and allowed for a once in a lifetime experience!

    M
    Melinda YozampUnited States,Nov 2024
Price Per PersonUS$1399US$1549
We Offer Group Discount
  
1 paxUS$1549
2 - 6 paxUS$1449
6 - 14 paxUS$1399