Gokyo via Chola Pass Trek is a fascinating and scenic adventure destination around the high Khumbu of the Everest Region in Nepal. Everest Trek Gokyo via Cho-la Pass is one of the most combined adventurous and challenging base camps of the highest mountain in the world and recognizable for the series of beautiful turquoise lakes in the Gokyo valley and the famous Cho La Pass, it takes us through the landmarks of the Khumbu region in the company of majestically soaring mountains, friendly Sherpas, colorful monasteries, the Namche Bazaar, the Sagarmatha National Park, and, of course, to the base of the mighty Everest.
Besides the lakes, is the ascent of Gokyo Ri, just behind the village providing unbelievable views of Cho-Oyu and Everest. The trek follows the Base Camp route, passing through the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar. Alongside, is the spectacular site of Tyangboche where a magnificent monastery sits amidst a snow-capped mountain panorama. Following reaching Everest Base Camp is simply unbeatable and makes this detour (west of Everest) more scenic, and serene. Also more challenging and completely worth your time and effort and soaking up the icy wilderness sanctuary. The Everest Trek route takes the summit of Kala Patthar, a spectacular viewpoint to appreciate Everest in all her glory. In addition, mountains as far as the eye can see, are covered in a blanket of snow.
After that reach Dzongla. The views of Ama Dablam and Taweche are spectacular. After the Zhongla ascent, we continue towards Gorak Shep then climb to Everest Base Camp (5364m) and Kala Pattar (5545m). Here, we enjoy an impressive up-close view of Everest. Our return route passes through Tengboche, a magnificent location with a fascinating monastery, where we rest and savor the incredible scenery, including magnificent views of Everest, Ama Dablam (6856m), Kantega (6809m), Kwangde (6194m), Nuptse (7879m), Lhotse (8511m) and many more.
As you approach Kathmandu Valley, you’ll notice a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the lush green valley below. At the Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet you, and then drive you to your accommodation, later in the evening you’ll be given a briefing by our representative and assisted with all of your travel requirements by your professional trekking guide. In the evening you will be taken to Thakali restaurant to have a welcome dinner which will be a different test and experience.
Maximum Altitude:1440m
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Your guide will be at your hotel early morning to pick you up and drive you to the Domestic airport, Your Everest adventure will begin today with an exciting flight to Lukla, a magnificent highland Sherpa settlement. Upon arriving at Lukla, you’ll meet the rest of the crew, after a short briefing sifts through your possessions, load your rucksacks, and head off on your journey, which will take you through Chauri Kharka and down to the Dudh Koshi River, Phakding (2,610m), a little Sherpa village located in the green Dudh Koshi Valley, is reached through a wonderful trek that follows the river’s bank. On the way, you’ll travel by Khumbila, a holy peak revered by Sherpa that no one is permitted to climb, making it one of the Khumbu’s few unclimbed summits, follow the trail from here to Phakding, upon reaching the village you take a stroll across town and chat with the locals if you’re not too tired.
Maximum Altitude: 2840m
Walking Distance: 30-minute flight and 3-4 hrs (8 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today after early morning breakfast, set out for Namche Bazaar, also regarded as Nepal’s “Sherpa capital”, before entering the Sagarmatha National Park entry, make sure your permits are ready for inspection from here the journey follows the raging Dudh Koshi a milky glacial river, up to Monjo, where you’ll be crossing multiple suspension bridges, including the famed Hillary Suspension Bridge. The settlement of Jorsale is accessed via trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, from there it’s an uphill hike to Namche Bazar, the Everest Region’s economic powerhouse. As you reach Namche prepare to be amazed to catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Namche Bazaar is where you’ll spend the night.
Maximum Altitude: 3440m
Walking Distance:6-7 hrs (10.5 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today is your day for acclimatization and the village has various locations for an acclimatization hike. Early morning you will hike at the viewpoint which will provide you with a spectacular view of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and Lhotse with a beautiful sunrise which will show you colorful mountains, after this, you will go back to the hotel for breakfast and after that again you will hike to Everest view hotel, Khumjung village, monastery, and later on visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and learn about Sherpa culture and customs. This day will be fabulous.
Maximum Altitude:3440m
Walking Distance: 4-5 hrs (6 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
After an early breakfast, head on to the trail, the route today offers you breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. The mighty Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde are among the Himalayan giants seen from the path. Tengboche is the objective for today’s trek, from here you’ll get a close-up look at Mt. Ama Dablam, generally recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful peaks.
Tengboche Monastery, the Khumbu region’s oldest Buddhist monastery rises above the village, visits the monastery, and listens to the monks chanting their sacred text.
Maximum Altitude: 3860m
Walking Distance:5-6 hrs (10 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
After your early morning breakfast on your trek from Tengboche to Dingboche, you’ll pass through vast plains and meadows to the Imja Khola, from where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Island Peak and Ama Dablam. As you reach Pangboche you’ll stop for lunch, Pangboche is home to the region’s largest Sherpa settlement, and here you can experience a unique Sherpa lifestyle and culture. Later on, in the day, hike from Pangboche to Dingboche.
Maximum Altitude: 4410m
Walking Distance:5-6 hrs (11 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Teahouse
This is your second day of acclimatization. After you’re early morning breakfast an acclimatization hike to Nangkatshang or Nagarjun hill (5,100 m), which is one of the Khumbu region’s most beautiful viewpoints, where technical climbing is not required, and there is nothing to be concerned about other than the altitude, there are other acclimatization excursions around the settlement. And after your day hike, you will chill the day.
Maximum Altitude:4410m
Walking Distance: 4-5 hrs (4.5 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today wake up early morning and have breakfast then continue on to Lobuche, a tiny village with spectacular views of Lobuche, Pumori, and Nuptse, through steep mountain terrain, because of the high altitude, walking may be difficult, so take frequent breaks and stop for lunch along the way in Thukla (4,600 m). Lobuche is a small settlement made up of settlements and teahouses that offer basic services.
Maximum Altitude:4910m
Walking Distance:5-6 hrs (8 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
After your early morning breakfast, will move to Gorakshep, Today’s trail will take you to Everest Base Camp, reaching the base of the world’s highest mountain, the journey is one of the most memorable, although it is demanding and challenging, and as the height climbs and the oxygen level lowers, you may feel physically weaker. So, as suggested by your guide, take it gently and steadily. Gorak Shep is only a few hours from Lobuche; after lunch at Gorakshep Hotel, you will be leaving your heavy baggage at the teahouse, and trek up to Everest Base Camp which takes 3hrs then back to Gorakshep and stay overnight there.
Maximum Altitude:5364m
Walking Distance: 7-8 hrs (12 km) trek
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Teahouse
You will wake up early morning according to your guide’s instructions and then will start hiking to Kala Patthar, the most popular viewpoint in the Everest Region, trekkers go to Kala Patthar to get a closer perspective of the world’s tallest mountains, creating a snowy ring around Kala Patthar, at 5,550 meters with a 360-degree panoramic view of spectacular Himalayan views and watch the sun’s blazing rays illuminate Mount Everest’s icy peak.
When you feel enough to be there will go back to Gorakshep then will have breakfast then head to Dzongla slightly downhill.
Maximum Altitude: 5550m
Walking Distance: 7-8 hrs
Meals: B, L, D
Acc0mmodation: Teahouse
After your breakfast at Dzongla will start to move to Thagna, today is the toughest day of the trek as you’ll be crossing a high mountain pass, Cho La. The path is steep and rocky, so take extra caution. From the top of the passing witness views of the Himalayan range, glaciers, and lush pasture lands. Descend towards Thagna on s steep trail. Once you reach Thagna head towards your tea house.
Maximum Altitude: 4,700m
Walking Distance: 9-10 hrs
Meals: B, L, D
Acc0mmodation: Teahouse
After your breakfast, you’ll cross the Ngozumpa glacier, along the way get your first sight of another Cho Oyu, and cross the longest glacier in Nepal. As you cross the glacier, you’ll reach the pristine Gokyo Lake and the beautiful settlement below. When you reach Gokyo you will have lunch and then will take a rest, After a brief rest head towards the settlement.
Maximum Altitude: 4,790m
Walking Distance: 3-4hrs
Meals: B, L, D
Acc0mmodation: Teahouse
Head towards Gokyo Ri early in the morning, the Gokyo Ri holds a spectacular view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Kangtewa, Thamserku, Cho Oyu, and even Mt Makalu. The view of the Ngozumpa glacier below is also very beautiful with the three Gokyo lakes complementing it. Afterward, back to Gokyo and have breakfast take a rest, and head towards Machhermo alongside Dudh Koshi river passing rocky meadows, yak pasture, and Machhermo which takes 3-4 hours.
Maximum Altitude: 4,480m
Walking Distance: 3-4hrs
Meals: B, L, D
Acc0mmodation: Teahouse
After breakfast head towards Namche Bazar, the trail is fairly easy as compared to other areas of the trek, stop briefly at Dole and again proceed towards the trail to Namche and Overnight at Namche which is the heart of the Everest region then will chill your night at here with so many things.
Maximum Altitude: 3,440m
Walking Distance: 5-6hrs
Meals: B, L, D
Acc0mmodation: Teahouse
After your early morning breakfast at the same hotel in Namche will go towards Lukla the way is downhill which is easier than on other days and it takes 5-6 hours to reach Lukla when you reach Lukla you can enjoy wildly because this will be the last day of your trek and you can end the trip with Guide and porter can advise them say goodbye happily to them as well.
Maximum Altitude: 2,840m
Walking Distance: 7-8 hrs
Meals: B, L, D
Acc0mmodation: Teahouse
The scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is always a delight, flying parallel to the world’s highest peaks and once you arrive at Kathmandu, you’ll be driven to your accommodation. Take a break or go souvenir shopping.
In the evening, a special cultural program and a farewell dinner will be served to commemorate the end of your journey.
Maximum Altitude: 1400 m
Walking Distance: 25-30 min Flights
Meals: Breakfast
Acc0mmodation: Hotel
Our staff will drop you off at the airport, you’ll bid farewell to your newfound friends as well as Nepal.
NOTE: All of the trekking hours and distances mentioned above are estimates and should only be used as a general guideline.
The best time for Gokyo via Chola Pass Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and stable weather conditions, making it ideal for trekking. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall and muddy trails, while winter (December to February) can be cold with snow-covered paths and limited visibility.
Meals & Drinking Water:
Along the trekking route, teahouses and lodges offer meals such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and snacks. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary preferences. Bottled water is available for purchase, but it’s recommended to carry water purification tablets or a filtered water bottle for refills from natural water sources along the trail.
Accommodation during the Gokyo via Chola Pass Trek consists of teahouses and lodges along the trail. These accommodations provide basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Rooms may vary in cleanliness and comfort, especially in higher altitudes. It’s advisable to bring a sleeping bag for added warmth and comfort.
The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla or Ramechhap to Lukla is a thrilling experience, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Flights are operated by domestic airlines and take around 25-30 minutes. It’s recommended to book flights in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons.
Gokyo via Chola Pass Trek involves moderate to challenging trekking difficulties, including steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and potentially harsh weather conditions. Trekkers should be physically fit, properly acclimatized, and prepared for long days of trekking. Crossing Chola Pass requires careful navigation and may be challenging depending on weather conditions.
Respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering temples and religious sites, and greeting locals with a polite “Namaste.” Engage with locals respectfully, learn about their culture and traditions, and seek permission before taking photographs, especially at religious sites.
Obtain a tourist visa for Nepal before arrival, which can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land borders. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is highly recommended for trekking in remote areas like Gokyo via Chola Pass.
To trek in the Everest region, including Gokyo via Chola Pass Trek, you’ll need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or through licensed trekking agencies.
The Gokyo via Chola Pass Trek offers stunning views of the Everest region, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The trail passes through lush forests, alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and rugged mountain passes, offering diverse landscapes and breathtaking vistas.
Amazing Trip with Overland Trek Nepal
My experience with Overland Trek Nepal was amazing. They were extremely professional from the beginning to the end. Our wonderful guide, Subash, went above and beyond to make our experience trekking to the GOKYO VIA CHOLA PASS TREK the best possible. He always consulted us before any decision and made us involved in all the decisions.
I highly recommend this company and safety is paramount!
Do not hesitate and hire them if you want to have a great time!
100% recommend to Overland Trek Nepal.
My friends and I (14 of us) did the 18 days Everest Base Camp Trek with Cho La Pass and Gokyo Lakes. Incredible is an understatement. Nick, Bimal, Pramish and the team were the best!!!
Everything provided by Overland Trek Nepal exceeded expectations. The booking process was handled quickly, easily, and professionally. They provide so much information and help before we even booked our trip.
Once on the mountain, Nick and the crew ensured we always had everything we needed and were prepared for whatever was happening. Nick is an expert. He was always on top of everything and made it so we only had to think about the trek and enjoying ourselves.
The views and hike itself were amazing. A truly once in a lifetime sort of experience which is always in our Heart and mind, and I would recommend the trek to anyone considering visiting the area. I would highly recommend Overland Trek Nepal and Mr. Nick in particular.
Some mornings I had to check I was actually awake because it was so beautiful. The trek was not easy, but Overland Trek Nepal made it achievable for everyone so comfortably, and it was absolutely worth the effort.
I wish you all the best for your future team see you soon again…
Incredible trip to Gokyo & EBC
Upon landing in Kathmandu airport in early September of 2018, I was met and warmly welcomed into Nepal by Gautam who had also gifted me a necklace which is made by beautiful flowers. I was taken for dinner where Gautam further explained to me what I should expect as I safely trek through onward to Gokyo Trek via Chola Pass and back. We spoke about safety, particularly the effects of altitude sickness and how to mitigate it. I genuinely felt that my safety was of high concern to Gautam and my general well-being during the trek was of high priority. The guide I had was amazing well-spoken and was knowledgeable as he narrated to me the history of the fascinating sites that we were visiting.
Everything from inquiring, booking and the actual trek was well organized and he always had plan A, B & C in case anything went wrong or we needed to change our plans. All three of us managed to complete the trek in good health & safely. Having some acclimatization days scheduled really helped with this and Gautam was always checking that we were feeling ok.
I want to go back and try a couple of other trips and definitely I will go to Overland Trek Nepal to whom feel like my family. I recommend this company to other travelers too who will make life experiences to you.
Lifetime Experiences.
Definitely the coolest thing I’ve ever done in my life. An incredible journey with the friendliest and most fun guides! Thank you, Nick, for all your knowledge and expertise, and thank you Unish and Santosh for everything you did for us along the way.
