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Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Duration
    16 Days
  • Max. Altitude
    5,420 m
  • Trip Grade
    Strenuous
  • Activity
    Trekking
  • Group Size
    1-7 PAX People Max

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most adventurous trekking experiences in the entire Khumbu region. This 16-day trekking expedition offers some of the most stunning and scenic views of Everest and the surrounding region from the dazzling blue emerald’s point of view in Gokyo Valley.

Graded moderately difficult, this amazing trekking route is technically more advanced than other trekking expeditions in the country; thus, it offers a relatively more adventurous experience. Encompassing all the major highlights from Namche Bazaar, Sagarmatha National Park, Yak Kharka to Dole, Thagnak to Cho Dzongla via Cho La Pass, Gorakshep, Kalapatthar, and unforgettable experience through the Gokyo Lakes’ trail, it is an overall exciting package to the Himalayas adventure enthusiasts.

The advanced trekking route to the Everest Base Camp takes the adventurers through the less traveled trail and remote segment of the Gokyo Valley. Its untainted beauty, sparkling with purity, opens up the path to spirituality and engraves the magnificent essence of the high-Himalayan region into the soul.

Highlights of Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek

  • Scenic and immersive cross-valley flight to Luka, from deep valleys and green hills to the Himalayan region, home of the highest snow-capped wonders
  • Second-highest pass of the Three Passes Trek, Cho La Pass, at an elevation of 5,420 meters
  • Immersive-fascinating culture and traditions of the high-Himalayas Sherpa communities
  • Spectacular view of the tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 meters), from Gokyo Ri, including several other massifs like Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho Oyu, and Mt Makalu
  • Highest base camp in the world, Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters), and the highest elevation point of the entire trek Kalapatthar (5,644 meters)
  • Six sparkling and pristine lakes in the valley; Gokyo Cho, Thonak Cho, Ngojumba Cho, Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, and Kyajumba Cho,
  • Highest glacier on earth, Khumbu Glacier, at an altitude point of 4,900 meters, and the longest glacier in the Himalayas, Ngozumpa (4,700 meters)
  • Peaceful off-beaten trails to Gokyo Valley, from diverse landscapes of lush vegetation to moraines and the glacial region of the Himalayas
  • Unique mixed adventure of the Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp (often trekked separately)
  • Uplcose picturesque view of mountain ranges like Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, including several others
  • Exploration of the spiritual side of the Himalayan region, home to decorated chortens, monasteries, and religious pilgrims with great significance in both Hinduism and Buddhism
  • High Himalayas flora and fauna in the Sagarmatha National Park lie red pandas, snow leopards, marten, Himalayan tahr, red billed cough, blood pheasant, including jharal, and many more
  • Comfortable and homely lodges/teahouses of Sherpa families along the routes in the trek

Preparation for the Trekking

As the Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek takes place on slightly advanced routes, it’s also important to prepare well for the most adventurous trekking route in the Khumbu region. Proper physical training to increase endurance and stamina, followed by acclimatization days to adapt to the high altitude, go hand to hand to make this adventure an exciting experience.

The trekking experts recommend that before any high-altitude adventure, it is necessary to physically train from 8 to 12 weeks prior to the expedition. This way, your body will get used to walking and help you build endurance. If you can find a natural terrain to practice the trek, it will be the most ideal; carry a rucksack or backpack during the training, and if you do it in your hiking boots, you will also be able to check your boots’ comfort level.

It is very important to build leg strength for the trek in the Himalayas region, so at least cover a 4-7 km distance each day during your training regime or walk the equivalent distance on a treadmill. Although the Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek has been graded moderately difficult, it doesn’t demand any hardcore training regimes; just train correctly to be able to cover at least 6-7 hours of the trek in a day. As there are several steep segments and stone stairs, practicing training on stairs will also be a lot more effective for the real adventure.

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Itinerary

1

Arrival in Kathmandu

 

On your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up at the Tribhuvan International Airport outside the terminal with your name board. You will be transferred to your respective hotel for the much-deserved rest. You can stroll around the bustling capital and explore the popular tourist destination during the late afternoon; you will meet our guide, who will brief you about the expedition.

You can also take this opportunity to shop for the necessities of the trek, including high-altitude clothing and equipment. You can go through your packing list with the guide to make sure you won’t need anything after the trek starts. Overnight stay at Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation
    Optional
  • Meal
    No
  • Max. Altitude
    1400m
  • Time
    Free and Rest
2

Kathmandu to Lukla (2,810 meters) to Phakding (2,651)

The adventure on the second day of your arrival will start early in the morning. You will be transferred from your respective hotel to the Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will board a flight to Lukla. It will take around 35-40 minutes to reach Lukla, and you will meet other members of your expedition team there. Although the flight to Lukla from Kathmandu is short, the cross-valley offers some of the most spectacular diverse landscape views from deep valleys to high hills and the Himalayas.

Trek from Lukla to Phakding is slightly downhill, so the first day of your adventure will be easy walking overall. Passing the ceremonial gatehouse Kani, the trail descends above the Kyangma village to Cheplung village along the Dudh Koshi River. During the final stretch of this 3 hours trek, after crossing a suspension bridge, you will climb across the ridge of Ghat and reach Phakding for an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    2651m
  • Time
    4 hrs.
3

Phakding to Namche Bazaar

The third day of the Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek will be an adventurous day. After having a healthy breakfast, you will move along the trails of Dudh Koshi River crossing the bridge over five times on the same river to move along with the trail. Walking along the trails of rhododendron and pine forest, you will pass several beautiful high-Himalayas civilizations like Benkar, Mono, Chumoa, Jorsale, and Manjo, the gateway of the Sagarmatha National Park.

After the exploration of the national park, the trail will head the banks of Dudh Koshi upward, reaching the conjunction point with the Bhote Koshi River, where you will cross the final suspension bridge. On your ascend to Namche Bazaar, you will get the first view of Mt. Everest; after a 5-6 hour journey from the starting point, you will reach Namche Bazaar, your resting destination today.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    3438m
  • Time
    5 - 6 hrs.
4

Acclimatization day

After a significant elevation jump on the third day, it is necessary for your body to get acclimatized to the high-altitude environment. You can use this day for resting or exploring the beautiful Namche region; health specialists recommend being active during the acclimatization process rather than sitting idle. If you are feeling perfectly fit, you can hike up to the Khumjung Village (3,870 meters) or stroll around the bustling region exploring other tourist attractions like Khunde Village, Khumjung Monastery, Dingboche Airport, Cafe Danphe, the world’s highest Irish bar and Hillary School, including the high-altitude hotel Everest View Hotel (3,962 meters).

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    3438m
  • Time
    Rest and Acclimatization day
5

Namche Bazaar to Dole

Elevation: Dole – 3680 m

Time:6 hrs

After a well-deserved rest at Namche Bazaar, you will trek toward Dole which takes approximately around 5-6 hours. Today, you will pass through the trail filled with rhododendron, conifer, and juniper forest aroma; on the way, you will pass several Buddhist monasteries and chortens decorated with prayer flags.

The adventure through the grazing pastures for yaks, Yak Kharka, and several beautiful Sherpa civilizations will be accompanied by magnificent views of the massifs like Mt. Everest, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and many more. The awe-spiring views of the Khumbu La Pass and Taboche will add excitement to the adventure as you turn left at the fork heading towards Gokyo Lake and reaching Dole village. This will be your resting destination tonight.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    4080m
  • Time
    6 hrs.
6

Dole to Machhermo

Today, you will climb steeply through the juniper forest scrub; as you leave Dole behind, you will move along an uphill gradient for about 30 minutes, and from there, it’s a relatively gentle uphill hike for the rest of the trek. As you trek uphill toward the Machhermo settlement, you will be able to witness the soaring Dudh Koshi River far down below.

You will pass along the beautiful village of Luza (4,360 meters) and trek downhill and uphill at several points of the Machhermo Valley. Then you will finally reach the tiny teahouse settlement of the route, Machhermo village, after a short 3-4 hours trek. There is also a ridge above the Machhermo villages, which offers amazing views of Mt. Thamserku and other magnificent massifs of the region. You will rest here tonight, relishing the local delicacies and culture of the high-Himalayas civilization.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    4410m
  • Time
    4- 5 hours
7

Machhermo to Gokyo (Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri)

The afternoon trek today isn’t too strenuous; descending to the Dudh Koshi River, you will pass through just one or two deep steep sections in the trail. As you ascend onwards to Ngozumpa Glacier, after climbing a steep section, you will be able to witness the first-ever pristine sparkling deep Gokyo Lake.

Although the first Gokyo Lake is relatively small, and you will pass it in a short while, the second lake is longer and parallel to the trekking route. Enjoying the refreshing views of the lake, you will move along to the third Gokyo Lake, where you will rest and get refreshed for the trek up ahead.

Mt. Cho Oyo and several peaks surrounding the Ngozumba Glacier will accompany you on today’s trek, and the reflecting water of the Gokyo Lakes will make the trek even more extraordinary.

During the last section of the trek, you will climb up to Gokyo Ri; it is famous for the great panoramic views of the beautiful Himalayas around the valley and also offers a great view of the lakes and glaciers at the base. The astonishing and breathtaking sunset view from the Gokyo Ri will mark the end of today’s adventure, and you will hike back to Gokyo for an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    4800m
  • Time
    3 - 4 hrs.
8

Gokyo to Thagnak (Morning hike to Gokyo 4th Lake)

On the 8th day of the Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek, you will take a short morning hike to the fourth Gokyo Lake. You will follow the trail across Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal and the most astonishing glacier in the Everest region. The immersing view of the Gokyo Valley, the magnificence of Ngozumpa Glacier, and the panoramic views of the beautiful snow peaked wonders in the Khumbu region will add magic to today’s adventure.

Thangnak is also famous as the base camp for the Cho La Pass; it is a small settlement with teahouses, a resting destination for the trekkers who are planning to cross the Cho La Pass. You will rest here tonight and prepare for the expedition on Cho La Pass tomorrow.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    4700m
  • Time
    4 hrs.
9

Thagnak to Cho Dzongla via Chola Pass (5365m)

Unlike other precedent trekking days, this expedition will be a little longer and more demanding which can last up to 8 hours. You will set out on today’s adventure very early in the morning to climb the Cho La Pass (5365m); this trekking route connects the main Everest Base Camp Trekking trail with the Gokyo Valley. Although the path itself isn’t difficult in today’s trek, it’s steep and requires a traverse over the glacier on the eastern side; that’s why crampons are a must for today’s adventure.

You will climb through a narrow valley from Phedi and onto the rocky segments of the route; as you gain altitude, you will gradually start to catch th captivating glimpse of the variant diversification of landscapes from the deep valley, frozen lakes, and the glorifying beauty of the firm snowy peaks showering their elegance. After traversing through the frozen lake, you will reach the top of Chol La Pass, admiring the beauty of Kayjo Ri, Numbur, Kangchung, and Tengkangpoche ridges, then you will descend towards Dzonngla. The steep last segment of the day’s trek will lead you to the Cho Dzongla Village; you will eat delicious warm food here and get much-needed rest after a long day’s expedition.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    4830m
  • Time
    6 - 8 hrs.
10

Dzongla to Lobuche

Today, it’s an easy day trek; you will pass along the flat trails from Dzongla Village to Lubuche, which will last approximately around 3 hours. It is relatively peaceful trekking as you won’t see many trekkers’ enroute; however, after crossing the Khumbu Glacier, the world’s highest glacier, and connecting to the main Lubuche route, you will see the lively environment of the main Everest Base Camp trekking trail.

On this day, you will move from the remote trail to rejoin the main EBC trek route; Lubuche will be your resting destination tonight to prepare for the big adventure the next day.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    4930m
  • Time
    3 hrs.
11

Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar)

On today’s adventure, you will be following the Khumbu Glacier all the way till you reach Gorakshep, the closest village to the Everest Base Camp. The morning trek to Gorashep will take approximately 2-3 hours from the starting point in Lobuche, and after having lunch at Gorakshep, you will move along the trails to Kalapatthar (5,644 meters), the highest point of the Everest Base Camp trekking.

After reaching Kalapatthar, you will be able to enjoy the up-close views of enormous snowy figurines like Mt. Everest, Mt Nuptse, Mt. Changtse, and several other peaks. There are generally two best times to hike up to Kalapatthar, during sunset and sunrise; these are the time when the mysterious Himalayas brimming with life, are highlighted by the rising and sinking rays of the sun. After fully soaking in the beauty at the foothills of the greatest mountain in the world, you will return to Gorakshep, where you will spend the night.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    5164m
  • Time
    6 - 7 hrs.
12

Gorakshep to Pheriche (Morning hike to EBC)

Elevation: Pheriche – 4200 m

Time: 8 hrs

On this day’s trek, you will hike along the Khumbu Glacier to the Everest Base Camp at an elevation of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). Reaching Everest Base Camp at the foothills of Mt. Everest (8,849 meters), from where the expedition to the conquest of the tallest mountain in the world starts, you will be able to enjoy the up-close views of towering peaks in the region, including Mt. Everest, Mt Nuptse, Mt. Changtse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Pumori and several other surrounding the camp. This will be an approximate 4 hours round trip from Gorakshep; after the early morning hike to EBC, you will descend back to Gorakshep for breakfast.

Then after breakfast, you will set out for Pheriche Village; you will cover an approximately 9.6 km distance that will take around 4 hours in the popular Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek return route. Situated at the river bank, Pheriche village has many lodges and restaurants where the trekkers can relish their time after a hard-earned adventure.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    5364m
  • Time
    7 - 8 hrs
13

Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

Although it is another long day ascent to Namche Bazaar, as you hike gradually to the lower altitude, the walking will start to seem a little bit easier. This trekking downhill to Namche will take about 7 hours, passing along the villages like Pangboche, Tengboche, and Phunki Thanga; you will cover about 14.3 km distance to reach Namche Bazaar. Leaving the high-Himalayas vistas behind, you will trek back to the lush and green climate during your descent.

The white peaks of the Himalayas, if the weather is clear, will be clearly visible during the trek back to the lower civilization. The scenic beauty of the high-Himalayas transition to the dense captivating greenery and warmer temperature is the soothing experience of this day’s trek.

After reaching Namche Bazaar, you will reconnect with modern-world luxury, internet services, restaurants, bars, and shopping hubs, including extensive accommodation and fooding facilities.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    3440m
  • Time
    6 - 7 hrs.
14

Namche Bazaar to Lukla

On the 14th day of the Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek, you will bid farewell to the Sherpa Capital, Namche Bazaar, and trek down to Lukla, the starting point where the journey began. After a healthy breakfast at Namche, you will trek downhill on the stone steps crossing several suspension bridges; although most of the section of today’s trek will be moderate downhill to flat, there are also a few uphill segments.

After reaching the flat terrain, you will walk along the soaring Dudh Koshi River, and retrace steps back to several Sherpa villages en route, mani walls, and Sagarmatha National Park before reaching the hamlet of Phakding settlement.

After having lunch at Phakding, you will continue with the rest part of the trek to Lukla; the magnificent mountain views, fresh scenic greenery, the crooning flow of rivers, and suspension bridges will still be part of the rest of the trek. After a moderate uphill hike, you wil arrive at Lukla, your resting destination tonight.

  • Accommodation
    Lodge
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    2860m
  • Time
    6 - 7 hrs.
15

Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)

Concluding the Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp trek, on the 15th day of your adventure, you will take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. In this short-scenic flight back to the capital, you will catch the last glimpse of the mountains that you traversed to. Recalling the fond and treasured memories, you will relish this cross-valley flight to Kathmandu and will be picked up by our representative for hotel drop-off.

After resting for the day and strolling around the capital for souvenirs or just simple sightseeing, we will host a farewell dinner for you, followed by a cultural show. Our representatives will drop you back at your respective hotels after the function.

  • Accommodation
    Optional
  • Meal
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Max. Altitude
    1400m
  • Time
    35 mins.
16

Departure

On the last day of the adventure, it is time to wrap up; you can take this day to rest or for sightseeing and shopping.

Our representatives will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the airport, depending on your flight schedule.

Thank you for traveling with us.

What to Expect

What's Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Airfare for the Kathmandu to Lukla and Luka to Kathmandu return flight
  • Healthy and delicacies throughout the trekking experience (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Fresh fruits every evening after dinner throughout the trek
  • Coffee/Tea (three times a day)
  • All accommodation/lodging expenses during the trek
  • Government-licensed, trained, and experienced English-speaking Sherpa guide
  • Expenses of the guide and porter’s fooding, accommodation, transportation, and insurance
  • Entry permit for the Sagarmatha National Park and local permit to enter the region
  • Porters to carry luggage during the trek, two of the trekkers will be assigned one porter
  • Magical Summits duffel bag as a gift to our guests
  • Guide books and trekking maps to understand the expedition better and keep an eye out for popular landmarks
  • Hiking pole, in case our guests need it
  • Heartwarming farewell dinner accompanied by a cultural show
  • All the expenses from the government tax, vat to our official service charges, guests are not liable for any hidden charges
  • Further assistance with the visa extension process or inquiries about flight schedules (free of cost)

What's Excluded

  • International flight and Nepal travel visa
  • Expenses for personal medical attention and emergency evacuation
  • International travel insurance that covers emergency rescue
  • Any personal expenses
  • Tips for the guide and porters (although it is expected)

FAQs

How much does it cost to complete the Gokyo Cho La Pass trek?

The cost for the Gokyo Cho La Pass trek can range from US$ 1,300 to US$ 1,600 per person depending upon the itinerary plans. Here at Magical Summits, you can book a 12-day Gokyo And Renjo La Pass Trek at US$ 1,385.

What is the difficulty level of Gokyo Trek?

How long is Gokyo Trek?

Which season is best for the Gokyo Lake trek?

Can you see Everest from Gokyo Lakes?

How far is Gokyo Lake from Everest Base Camp?

US$ 1565 per pax
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