Everest Cho La Pass Trek

Duration: 19 Days5/5(1 review)
At a Glance
  • Duration 19 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 5545

Highlights

  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu
  • Lifetime flight experience between Kathmandu and Lukla
  • Trek through lush forests of rhododendrons and beautiful remote Sherpa villages
  • Enjoy the wonders of the Khumbu region/Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Excellent side excursions to places like Everest View Hotel, Nagarjuna Hill & Gokyo Ri during acclimatization days
  • Stand at the base of the highest mountain in the world, Everest base camp & explore the gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar.
  • Cross Cho La pass & walk by the longest glacier in the Himalayas, Ngozumpa Glacier.
  • Explore Gokyo Lakes and the beautiful Gokyo village.

Everest Chola Pass Trek: 19 Days

Prepare to be awestruck as you witness the stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes that the Cho La Pass Trek has to offer. These views are not just beautiful; they are inspiring, and they will leave a lasting impression on your soul. The unique experiences of standing at the base of the highest mountain in the world, crossing Cho La pass, and walking by the longest glacier in the Himalayas are what make this Trek truly unforgettable.

Explore the beautiful alpine Gokyo Lakes and cross a high mountain pass, Cho La, passing by the biggest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa Glacier. Enjoy overnight stays in remote Sherpa villages and hike to EBC and Kala Patthar on the Cho La Pass Trek for 19 Days.

The Cho La Pass trek is one of the most adventurous trekking trips beyond the mainstream EBC trail. It extends to the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m) and explores the beautiful Gokyo Valley. Rest assured, we have comprehensive safety measures in place, including experienced guides and proper acclimatization, to ensure your Trek is as safe as it is thrilling.

The Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging adventure, suitable for fit trekkers looking for thrills in the Khumbu region. The itinerary combines a hike to EBC and Kal Patthar before crossing the Chola and walking along the Ngozumpa glacier to Gokyo Valley.

Please note that this Trek requires good physical fitness and stamina.

The Cho La Pass Trek is also known as the Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass Trek with EBC. The magnificent mountain views, picturesque villages, intimate encounters with locals, and verdant forests make the Everest Cho La Pass trekking a lifetime venture.

Unlike the EBC trek, the Cho La Pass Trek allows you to spend more time in the mountains and enjoy many places of interest. We have meticulously planned the most beautiful overnight stays along the trekking route, ensuring your comfort and a good night's sleep after walking. Rest assured, your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

Major Attractions of Cho La Pass Trek

Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu

On the second day of your arrival in Kathmandu, we will arrange a guided sightseeing tour of historical sites, which will be a full-day tour guided by one of our experienced tour guides.

The tour involves visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the holy Pashupatinath Temple, one of the oldest temples in Nepal and a pilgrimage site.

The next monument is the biggest stupa in Nepal, Boudhnath Stupa, and the famous Monkey Temple.

Likewise, you'll explore Kathmandu Durbar Square. This monument used to be a royal residence and now is an open museum with palaces, courtyards, & shrines. If time allows, you'll also visit the Asan market.

Lifetime flight experience between Kathmandu and Lukla

You might have heard many things about Kathmandu Lukla flights, like how crazy the flight experience is, its overwhelming takeoff & landing, and frequent delays.

Given the height of the Lukla airport (2,846 m) and the flying route, which includes towering mountains/peaks touching the clouds, you cannot expect anything else.

Similarly, the aerial views of the Himalayas will leave you in awe. Kathmandu Lukla flight gives a thrilling kick-start to your journey in the Himalayas.

Trek through lush forests and beautiful remote villages

The Cho La Pass Hiking route passes through juniper forests, magnolia, fir, and rhododendrons. It then climbs through dense alpine woodlands to Dingboche village.

The trail is full of vegetation ranging from subtropical to alpine. Likewise, you'll see different wildlife and birds. Above the treeline, you'll enjoy walking past bushes and pastures.

The Cho La pass trekking is also about experiencing the mountain lifestyle and culture of the natives. As the trail passes through beautiful Sherpa villages, you'll learn much about their values firsthand. Interaction with locals and their warm hospitality will win your heart. You'll be able to participate in local customs and traditions, making your Trek a genuinely immersive and culturally enriching experience.

Enjoy the wonders of the Khumbu region/Sagarmatha National Park.

The Cho la Pass trail has more villages than villages in the Sagarmatha National Park and dense forests.

You will come across streams, rivers, waterfalls, valleys, suspension bridges fastened with fluttering prayer flags, farming fields, glaciers, moraines, and lakes. The trail is very adventurous, as you can imagine.

Excellent side excursions during acclimatization days

We have a few acclimatization days during the Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass Trek. During these days, you'll explore the villages and observe locals doing their daily chores.

In the mornings, you will hike to nearby viewpoints, including Everest View Hotel, Nagarjuna Hill, and Gokyo, RI. These side excursions offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, adding an extra layer of adventure and inspiration to your Trek.

Stand at the base of the highest mountain in the world and explore the gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar.

The trail leads to EBC, on the lap of Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. Reaching this point is usually the dream of hundreds and thousands of travelers worldwide.

And why not? It's like standing at the top of the world in one way. Likewise, the Trek takes you to Kala Patthar, the famous viewpoint offering a panorama of snow-capped mountains. Again, sunrise is very renowned in Kala Patthar.

Cross Cho La pass & walk by the biggest glacier in Nepal.

The Cho La pass is one of the three high passes in the Khumbu region. It stands 5,420 meters (17,782 ft) above sea level in north-eastern Nepal, Khumbu region. The pass connects Dzongla (4,830 m/15,850 ft) to the east and the village of Thagnak (4,700 m/15,400 ft) to the west.

Likewise, while walking from Thangank to Gokyo Valley, you'll be walking alongside the biggest glacier in Nepal, the Ngozumpa glacier.

Located below Mt. Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest mountain in the world, the 36-kilometer-long Ngozumpa Glacier is the longest in the Himalayas.

Explore Gokyo Lakes

Six Gokyo Lakes range from 4,700 to 5,000 m (15,400–16,400 ft). These are oligotrophic lakes and the world's highest freshwater lake system of multiple lakes.

Dudh Pokhari is the main lake in Gokyo village, and Thonak Cho is the largest lake. These lakes have religious values for the locals of the region.

Witness stunning mountain views & diverse landscapes.

The landscapes change with every new village and only get captivating. Some of the mountains you get to see. At the same time, trekking are Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Makalu (8,481 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586), Island Peak (6,160 m), and Chamlang (7,319 m).

Availability and Booking

Booking Cho La Pass Trek with Outfitter Himalaya is quite simple. We have a regular departure. First, you must choose the date that best suits you. You can also customize the itinerary/departure date with us. Then, fill in the information asked in the form and proceed with the booking charge.

We'll begin processing your trip once we receive the booking request and payment. You'll receive a trip confirmation email. You can pay the rest of the package costs upon arriving in Nepal. One of our travel consultants will stay in touch with you and help you prepare for the Trek.

You'll Experience

View Grom Gokyo Ri

Itinerary

The Trek begins with an exciting flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,846 m). Then, you'll traverse the Sagarmatha National Park, which starts from Monjo village (2,835 m) and goes up to Mt. Everest's top.

On the same day as your flight to Lukla, you'll descend to Phakding village (2,610 m) to spend the night and acclimatize. In the next few days, you'll trek through different Sherpa villages, such as Namche Bazar (3,440 m), Tengboche (3,860 m), Dingboche (4,410 m), Lobuche (6,119 m), and Gorak Shep (5,164 m).

After exploring EBC (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,644 m), you'll walk past Dzongla (4,830 m) and Thagnak (4,700 m). The trail then crosses the Cho La pass and passes alpine lakes to Gokyo village (4,750 m). Our major ascending part ends at Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), a viewpoint that offers one of the best views of Everest & Cho Oyu. The next day, you'll explore the Gokyo Lakes (4,700 m-5,000 m) and descend to Machhermo (4,470 m).

The following two days involve walking to Namche Bazaar and retracing the trail back to Lukla. Our Cho La pass trek itinerary involves ample acclimatization days and, therefore, exciting side excursions to Hotel Everest View (3,962 m), Khumjung monastery (3,790 m) in Namche Bazaar, and Nagarjuna Hill (5,100 m) in Dingboche.

If you love glaciers, valleys, moraines, snow-capped mountains, lakes, mountain passes, bridges over rushing rivers, and the serenity of nature, then the Cho La Pass Trek with EBC is for you.

Expand AllCollapse All

Our team will welcome you upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport. You can meet them near the terminal gate.

After a short meet-and-greet, they will take you to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day chilling and exploring the hotel surroundings. You'll have many things to look around as you stay in Thamel.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Today is a full day of sightseeing. With your tour guide, you'll explore the city and visit different historical sites.

The tour guide will tell you interesting facts about the sites and their history. Some of the places you'll be visiting are Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

You'll spend time packing for the Trek and meeting with the trek guide in the evening.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Today, you'll have the most thrilling morning of your life. We'll be flying to Lukla airport.

The flight is short, and the views are phenomenal, but the landing is what will take your breath away in a good way. In Lukla, our porters will join you for the journey ahead. The trail descends following a rough foothill and lush forests.

We'll cross several bridges and pass a few small villages.

Note: Lukla Flight Updates!

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2610

The day begins early with a delicious breakfast and a view. We leave Phakding village and walk through lush rhododendron forests.

On the way, we'll cross numerous suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and pass by small settlements.

Taking a small break at Monjo, we continue walking in the Sagarmatha National Park and gradually ascend following a steep trail to Namche Bazaar.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

We take a break in Namche Bazaar before ascending any further. Because we are at a high elevation, we must acclimate our bodies.

We'll take this opportunity and hike to Everest View Hotel. The trail is rugged and offers views of Mt. Thamserku and Kangtega.

Upon reaching the hotel, we see a stunning view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Nuptse.

The rest of the day, we spent time in Namche Bazaar, exploring the beautiful town of Sherpa.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

From Namche Bazaar, the trail ascends to Tengboche village. On the way, we can see clear views of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, and Lobuche Peak.

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we descend to the Dudh Kosi valley floor at Phungi Thanga. We cross a bridge here and walk towards Tengboche village, where we will spend the night.

This village houses the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region, Tengboche monastery.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3860

The trail to Dingboche passes through rhododendron forests and reaches Deboche. From here, we continue trekking and cross a bridge. Walking past a stupa, we go to Pangboche and cross another river.

Further, we'll walk uphill to Shomare (4,010 m) and continue to Orsho (4,190 m). We'll cross another bridge and walk alongside Imj Khola to Dingboche village.

The views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Taboche Peak, and Cholatse are fantastic.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4410

It's our second rest day in Dingboche. Early in the morning, we hike to Nagarjuna Hill.

The hike is steep but beautiful, and the views of mountains like Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Taboche, and Poklade are even more stunning.

We'll relax and explore Dingboche village for the rest of the day.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4410

From Dingboche onwards, the trail is quite steep and rocky. We descend for some time and follow a sharp uphill route to Dusa (4,530 m).

The route keeps ascending until we reach Dughla (4,620 m). We walk on a glacial path, cross the Dughla pass (4,830 m), and walk to Lobuche village, relishing the view of Khumbu Glacier and giant snow-capped mountains.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4910

We ascend to Everest base camp today. It'll be a massive achievement for us to stand at the base of the highest mountain in the world.

From Lobuche village, we keep ascending alongside the Khumbu Glacier. Crossing Lobuche pass (5,110 m), we walk on a zigzag, steep, rocky path to Gorak Shep.

From here, it's a steep climb to EBC. We'll spend some time at the base camp and retrace the path back to Gorak Shep for the night's stay.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5364

On this day, we'll wake up super early in the morning and go on a short excursion to Kala Patthar.

Kala Patthar is a viewpoint that offers a sensational view of Mt. Everest and numerous other mountains above the clouds. The sunrise is out of this world, and the feeling of standing in this extreme area is unexplainable.

We'll take the time to soak in the views before beginning our downhill walk to Dzonglha. Upon reaching Lobuche village, we descend to Dzonglha.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5545

From Dzonglha, we ascend following a steep, rugged route to the top of Cho La pass. We begin the day early to cross the Cho La Pass before the strong wind makes the journey even more demanding. The Cho La Pass is the journey's most challenging and riskiest part.

The high altitude makes the walk strenuous. The trail also risks sudden rockfall, so we must be careful. Once we reach the top of the Cho La Pass, The heavenly views of mountains and glaciers will welcome you.

We descend from Cho La pass, enjoying the best views of Ama Dablam and Cholatse. We'll be walking on a slippery path ahead and crossing a tricky ice section. Further, we keep descending to Thangnak to spend the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5370

The trail from Thangnak to Gokyo village offers breathtaking views of Ngozumpa Glacier, the biggest glacier in Nepal. We ascend and walk past Longpongo (4,720 m) and the second lake, Taujung Tsho (4,740 m), before reaching Gokyo village.

It is near Dudh Pokhari Lake, the third Gokyo Lake. The views from this village are outstanding.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4790

Early in the morning, we'll hike to Gokyo Ri. The path is trodden, and the views are heavenly.

Gokyo Ri offers one of the best views of Mt. Everest. We then descend to Machhermo to spend the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5365

It's a long descent from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar. We walk passing by the villages of Luza, Lhabarma, Dhole, Tongba, and Phortse Thanga.

The trail involves walking through lush forests and along verdant hills. We'll come across stupas and chortens on the way. The landscapes change throughout the way.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

From Namche Bazaar, we descend steeply through dense forests, crossing many suspension bridges and small villages.

We'll be tracing the entire trail. Phakding onwards, it's an uphill walk to Lukla.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2840

We fly back to Kathmandu today. Enjoy the remaining day shopping and relaxing.

Visit nearby tourist sites like the Garden of Dreams and Narayanhiti Palace.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

It's your last full day in Kathmandu, and this is a buffer day. We may use this day on the Trek when necessary or if the flight to Lukla gets delayed or canceled.

If everything goes according to the scheduled date, we can organize a guided sightseeing tour to visit Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, or others.

In the evening, the company organizes a farewell dinner, where you meet with the team for the last time.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Our airport team will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport at your flight departure time.

They will bid you our final goodbyes.

  • MealsB

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

Looking for a customized itinerary? Reach out to our experts.

Map & Altitude Graph

Everest Cho La Pass Trek map

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • Four nights' Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Meals during the Trek with hot tea/coffee for breakfast
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permits and TIMS permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
  • Flight fare (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu) with domestic airport tax
  • Tea house/Lodge Accommodation during the Trek on twin-sharing
  • An experienced local trekking guide and porter
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (which will be paid for by the travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffel bag, if necessary and returned after the Trek
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffel bag, if essential, and returned after the Trek
  • Seasonal fruits after dinner while on the Trek
  • Trip completion certificate
  • Company T-shirt and trekking map
  • A farewell dinner
  • First Aid and Oximeter
  • Official expenses and service charge

Exclusions

  • Nepal Entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Trekking porter
  • Meals (Lunch and Dinner) while you are in Kathmandu
  • Your personnel expenses/shopping
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Sweet things like chocolate bars and bar bills
  • Hot shower, internet, telephone, and laundry
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide and staff
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Essential Info

Fitness Required for Everest Chola Pass Trek

Please note that the Everest Cho La Pass Trek requires a moderate-strong fitness level, which involves 3 to 8 hours of daily trekking.

On this Trek, you will reach 5,545m above sea level. If you have health concerns, please consult your healthcare provider before booking the Everest Cho La Pass Trek.

Best Time for Chola Pass Trek

The best seasons (time) to do Cho La Pass Trek are autumn (from mid-September to mid-December) and spring (from the beginning of March until the end of May).

The temperatures drop considerably as the Trek goes higher on the Chola Pass Trek. The nights are chilly and cold (between -20 C and 5 C), but the days are sunny and hot (between 10 C and 30 C).

The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon & disappearing at night.

Accommodation on Everest Cho La Pass Trek

You have 3-star hotel accommodations for four nights in Kathmandu and simple lodge/teahouse accommodations for the rest of the 14 nights on Everest Cho La Pass Trek.

The rooms are just with a bed, pillow, and blankets on the trek lodge/guest house.

We accommodate you and your group in the local lodge or guest house, which is available each day.

We will send a porter ahead of us to book the required number of rooms for you and your group (Rooms are only available to book in advance in some places).

Please remember that some are basic, and a sense of adventure is necessary.

Note:

  • Accommodation will be double/twin share, mainly at the trekking lodge, and a single room will be available at an extra cost in Kathmandu.
  • A hotel upgrade in Kathmandu is available. There are luxury four and 5-star hotels available in Kathmandu. So, let us know if you want to upgrade the hotels in Kathmandu.

Meals & Drinks on Cho La Pass Trek.

Our price includes the meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), a total of 46 meals on the Cho La Pass Trip.

You have breakfast and dinner at the lodge, where you stay overnights, and lunch at the lodge is available along the trail.

On the Cho La Pass Gokyo Trail, you can find a wide variety of Nepali and Western food and drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer).

The Drinks are not included in our package cost; you can buy them at the lodge or guest house.

You can bring water purification pills or medicine while coming for the Cho La Pass Trek since normal water is free, or you can buy bottled water or boiled/safe water.

Luggage Limit on Lukla Flight

When you fly to Lukla for the Chola Pass Trek, the luggage allowance for a domestic flight to Lukla is 15kg, including hand luggage.

However, you can take more if you wish, and the excess luggage costs US $2-3 per Kg.

Travel Insurance for Everest Cho La Pass Trek

You need travel insurance for the Chola Pass Trek in Nepal. If you get sick or injured while trekking, we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital.

You will be entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in the evacuation/rescue. So, the insurance policy should cover all these expenses.

FAQs

  • Q1. How Difficult is the Everest Cho La Pass Trek?

    The Cho la Pass trek is challenging in the Khumbu region. It encompasses the Cho La circuit and crosses a high pass above 5,000 meters. The trail has many hurdles that make the trip adventurous and test your endurance and willpower.

    You'll push yourself daily for 6 to 7 hours on rough, steep terrain to reach the next point on the itinerary. Some days may include more than 8 hours of walking.

    Along with the rugged trail and glacial walking (in the latter part of the trail), you also have to deal with altitude and scarcity of facilities. As the journey progresses, it'll only get tough on you and your mind.

    Therefore, you must have physical and mental fitness to complete the Everest Cho la Pass Trek. While trekking, you must be mindful of altitude sickness. Proper rest and acclimatizing your body are crucial.

  • You should have at least three to four weeks to prepare for the Cho La Pass trek. During this time, you can train your body to walk long hours and build stamina.

    You can go on short day hikes and regularly do activities like cycling, swimming, and aerobics. Likewise, you can exercise in the gym and work on your core body strength.

    Another thing you must do is visit your doctor and learn about altitude sickness.

    If you have any past medical history that may be affected by high altitude, you should also talk about that with your doctor. If needed, you should get prescribed medicines for the journey.

  • Booking Everest Cho La pass trek 2024/2025 is quite simple. We have a regular departure. First, you have to choose the date that best suits you, or you can also customize the itinerary/departure date with us. Then fill in the information asked in the form and proceed with the booking charge. It's usually 10% to 30% as per the trip style. We have a secure payment gateway that accepts Mastercard/Visa/Credit cards.

    Once we receive the booking request and payment, we'll begin processing your trip. You'll get a trip confirmation email from us. The rest of the package costs you can pay upon arriving in Nepal. One of our travel consultants will stay in touch with you and help you in preparing for the trek. For more information, get in touch with us anytime.

    These are some other adventurous packages in the Everest region- Everest Three High Passes Trek, Renjo La Pass Trek, EBC Luxury Trek, Island Peak Climbing with EBC, and Mera Peak Climbing.

Client Reviews

  • 5/5

    Everest Camp Chola Pass Trek

    We recently returned to New Zealand after 19 days of Everest Chola Pass Trek with Outfitter Himalaya. The team at Outfitter Himalaya from Arjun with initial correspondence, everything was handled very well. The thing that made our trip an awesome was our Guide Bhim. He went above and beyond in many situations to make sure that we had the best rooms etc.

    We consider Bhim is a friend more than a guide, and we enjoyed the many stories, jokes, and card games we shared along the way. If we were to return to Nepal, we would use Outfitter Himalaya and Bhim again.

    A reliable and local company in Nepal.

    B
    BITFrom: New Zealand,Apr 28, 2022
    logo

    Dear BIT,

    Thank you for your review on our EBC-Chola pass trek and good to know that you are satisfied our team. Good to know that you are happy with the guide and all the services provided.

    We wish you all the best and wish to serve you again. Have a good day.

    Arjun
    Outfitter Himalaya Holidays P. Ltd

     

Similar Trips

You may also like

Ask a Question