Gokyo Chola Pass

Gokyo Chola Pass

Everest Region

Excellent

4/5
Duration

20 Days

Max. Altitude

5357m

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: Gokyo Chola Pass Trek or Classic Base Camp Route

Dreaming of standing in the shadow of Everest? Most trekkers opt for the traditional Base Camp route, but if you want a more scenic and less crowded alternative, the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is the perfect choice. This unforgettable circuit takes you through the pristine Gokyo Lakes, over the dramatic Cho La Pass, and offers some of the best Everest viewpoints in all of Nepal.


Gokyo Chola Pass Trek : Booking/Inquiry

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Group Size Price per Person (USD)
1 Person USD $1,799
2 People USD $1,699
3 People USD $1,599
4+ People USD $1,499

The Everest Cho-La Pass Trek: Unrivaled Vantage Points

 

View of the beautiful Gokyo Chola Pass Lake

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.

To learn more about everest region click here: Everest Region


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.

To learn more about sagarmatha national park click here: Sagarmatha National Park


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.


Departure Dates:

  • October: 4th, 16th, 24th, 29th
  • November: 3rd, 15th, 24th, 29th

Itinerary

Day 01 :

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
  • Meet and greet by your guide or representative.
  • Transfer to hotel in Thamel or nearby area.
  • Short city walk or rest, depending on arrival time.
  • Briefing about the trek and gear check.
Day 02 :

  • Early morning scenic flight (approx. 30 mins) to Lukla Airport.

  • Begin trek towards Phakding village.

  • Walk through lush forests and pass mani stones and small stupas.

  • Cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.

  • Overnight stay in Phakding.

Day 03 :

  • Trek along the river valley through pine forests.

  • Enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo.

  • Cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge.

  • Steep uphill climb to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital.

  • Stunning views of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru.

Day 04 :

  • Short hike to Everest View Hotel for first view of Everest, Lhotse & Ama Dablam.

  • Visit Sherpa Museum and local market.

  • Optional hike to Khunde and Khumjung villages.

  • Rest to help altitude acclimatization.

Day 05 :

  • Trek uphill towards Mong La pass.

  • Descend to Phortse Tenga, then a steep climb to Dole.

  • Walk through rhododendron and birch forests.

  • Possible sightings of musk deer and Himalayan pheasants.

Day 06 :

  • Easy trek along open yak pastures.

  • Magnificent views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku.

  • Reach Machhermo, famous for its tragic Yeti story.

  • Acclimatization rest and explore village surroundings.

Day 07 :

  • Climb a ridge with great views of Kangtega and Cho Oyu.

  • Pass by beautiful Gokyo Lakes (First to Third Lakes).

  • Reach Gokyo Village beside the Third Lake (Dudh Pokhari).

  • Relax and enjoy glacier and mountain scenery.

Day 08 :

  • Early morning steep hike to Gokyo Ri peak.

  • Spectacular 360-degree views: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu.

  • Explore the upper Gokyo Lakes (Fourth and Fifth Lakes) if time allows.

  • Return to Gokyo for overnight stay.

Day 09 :

  • Short but rocky walk across Ngozumpa Glacier.

  • Trek to small settlement of Thangnak, base before Cho La Pass.

  • Rest and prepare for the next challenging day.

Day 10 :

  • Early start for Cho La Pass crossing.

  • Steep and icy climb to the pass — crampons may be needed.

  • Incredible views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, and Lobuche East.

  • Careful descent to Dzongla for overnight rest.

Day 11 :

  • Easy and scenic trek along the Khumbu Glacier.

  • Views of Lobuche Peak and Pumori.

  • Reach Lobuche, last major stop before Everest Base Camp.

Day 12 :

  • Trek along a rocky moraine path to Gorak Shep.

  • Continue to Everest Base Camp — enjoy stunning close-up views of the Khumbu Icefall.

  • Return to Gorak Shep for overnight stay.

Day 13 :

  • Early morning hike to Kala Patthar viewpoint.

  • Best panoramic sunrise view of Everest and neighboring peaks.

  • Descend past Lobuche to reach Pheriche for the night

Day 14 :

  • Gentle descent along the Imja Khola River.

  • Trek through Pangboche village.

  • Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery with great views of Ama Dablam.

  • Overnight at Tengboche.

Day 15 :

  • Steep descent to the river, then climb to Kyangjuma.

  • Easy walk back to Namche Bazaar.

  • Enjoy hot showers, bakeries, and internet!

Day 16 :

  • Long descent via Monjo and Phakding.

  • Cross several suspension bridges.

  • Celebrate trek completion in Lukla.

Day 17 :

  • Morning flight back to Kathmandu.

  • Transfer to hotel for rest or city exploration.

  • We provide farewell dinner after completion of this trek

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

Frequently asked questions

The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is considered challenging and suitable for experienced trekkers. The trail involves steep ascents, high-altitude passes (up to 5,420m at Cho La Pass), rocky terrain, and glacier crossings. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are highly recommended.

Yes, prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly advised for this trek due to the strenuous nature of the Cho La Pass crossing and extended days at high elevations. Beginners can do this trek only if they are very fit and prepared with proper acclimatization.

The best times to do this trek are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable weather, making the Cho La Pass crossing safer and the mountain views spectacular.

Yes! This trek combines the Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass, and Everest Base Camp in one route. After crossing the Cho La Pass, the trail joins the classic Everest Base Camp trek, allowing you to visit Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for the best views of Mt. Everest.

Yes, you need the following permits:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (Local Permit)
    These permits are mandatory and usually arranged by your trekking agency.