Everest Cho-La pass Gokyo lake

Everest Cho-La pass Gokyo lake

Everest Region

Excellent

4/5
Duration

20 Days

Max. Altitude

5550 m

Difficulty

Challenging

Best Season

Spring | Autumn

Transportation

Private Vehicle / Flight

Accommodation

Lodge during Trek

Starting Point

Kathmandu

Ending Point

Kathmandu

Overview

Choose Your Everest Adventure: Base Camp or a Unique Circuit Trek

If you’re planning to summit Everest, head straight to the base camp like most adventurers. However, for a more unique experience, consider a less frequented trail that offers rugged trekking with some of the best views of Everest in all its magnificent surroundings.

The Everest Cho-La Pass Trek: Unrivaled Vantage Points

The Everest Circuit trek takes you to three remarkable vantage points, providing breathtaking views of Everest. After a flight to Lukla (not included in the price) on Day 1 (2,840m), you’ll reach the Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar on Days 2 and 3 (3,440m). From there, you’ll trek along the 4,500m contour, eventually ascending the west flank of the Longponga Glacier to reach Gokyo-Ri on Day 7 (5,430m), where Everest emerges dramatically in the sunrise.

Crossing Cho La and Witnessing Himalayan Giants

The journey continues with a cautious crossing of the lower section of the glacier. An early start on Day 9 is necessary to cross the Cho La pass (5,378m). As you trek through this landscape of 6,000m peaks, you’ll witness the majestic Cho Oyo (8,153m), Nuptse (7,879m), Lhoste (8,501m), and the towering Everest (8,848m), dominating the horizon.

Kala Patthar: The Ultimate Everest Viewpoint

The final destination of the trek is Kala Patthar on Day 12 (5,545m), offering an up-close view of Everest, just beyond the Khumbu Glacier. Nuptse and Lhotse stand guard as sentinels, while the imposing icefall prevents further ascent. On your way back to Lukla, the serene Tyangboche Monastery will leave a lasting impression before you return home.

Itinerary

Day 01 :

  • Arrival in Kathmandu
  • Transfer to hotel and explore the city
Day 02 :

  • Take an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,800ft), about 40 minutes.
  • Arrive at the gateway to Everest, the Sherpa region.
  • Notice the distinct features of the Sherpas, different from other Nepalese.
  • After lunch, trek north towards Phakding.
Day 03 :

  • Trek along the Dudh Kosi River
  • Cross suspension bridges (5-6 hours)
Day 04 :

  • Rest and acclimatize
  • Optional hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views
Day 05 :

  • Trek through rhododendron forests and yak pastures (5-6 hours)
Day 06 :

  • Gradual ascent through scenic valleys with views of Cho Oyu (6-7 hours)
Day 07 :

  • Trek to Gokyo, passing the turquoise lakes (5-6 hours)
Day 08 :

  • Early morning ascent to Gokyo Ri for sunrise views
  • Explore the Gokyo Lakes area (4-5 hours)
Day 09 :

  • Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier to reach Thangnak (4-5 hours)
Day 10 :

  • Cross the challenging Cho La Pass
  • Descend to Dzongla (7-8 hours)
Day 11 :

  • Trek alongside the Khumbu Glacier with views of Everest (4-5 hours)
Day 12 :

  • Trek to Gorak Shep
  • Continue to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep (7-8 hours)
Day 13 :

  • Climb Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest
  • Descend to Pheriche (6-7 hours)
Day 14 :

  • Trek downhill to Tengboche
  • Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery (4-5 hours)
Day 15 :

  • Descend through forests and villages to Namche Bazaar (4-5 hours)
Day 16 :

  • Trek back along the Dudh Kosi River to Lukla (6-7 hours)
Day 17 :

  • Scenic flight back to Kathmandu
  • Free day to rest or explore
Day 18 :

Buffer day in case of weather or delays

Day 19 :

  • Explore Kathmandu’s cultural landmarks and historic sites
Day 20 :

  • Final departure or continue your travel journey

About the above itinerary

This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized based on your preferences and fitness level. It is always advisable to trek with a licensed guide and to have a proper trekking permit before embarking on any trekking adventure in Nepal.

Included

  • Per itinerary with tour guide, vehicle & entry fees
  • Kathmandu to Lukla and return flights including trekking guide’s flight
  • All meals – full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek as per given itinerary
  • Twin sharing tea house/lodge accommodation during the Mount Everest circuit trek
  • Mount Everest circuit trek experienced trek leader (English speaking, First Aid and Eco-trained), one Sherpa porter
  • Trek support staff insurance
  • Sagarmatha National park entry fee, TIMS permit, plus all major permits and entry fees
  • Everest circuit trekking map, printed itinerary etc.
  • Comprehensive medical kit bag (First Aid bag)

Excluded

  • Nepalese visa fees and international airfare
  • Excess baggage charges (Domestic plane allows only 15 KG maximum)
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except mentioned in the itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance (Book your travel insurance in advance)
  • Personal expenses e.g. phone calls, laundry, bar bills, hot shower, battery recharge & extra porters
  • Tips for driver, trekking guide and trekking Sherpa and trekking porter
  • Any extending trips besides 21 days Everest circuit  trek
  • Any services that doesn’t include in service inclusive column

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