Gokyo Chola Pass Trek
Group Discounts |
|
| 1 Pax. | US$ 1495 PP |
|---|---|
| 2-4 Pax. | US$ 1396 PP |
| 5-7 Pax. | US$ 1350 PP |
| 8-10 Pax. | US$ 1315 PP |
| 11-14 Pax. | US$ 1300 PP |
| Over 15 Pax. | US$ 1250 PP |
Trip Highlights
- Witness the majestic beauty of mountains like Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
- You’ll also journey through the cultural Sherpa villages and explore their centuries-old traditions.
- Survey the base camp of Mount Everest, the gigantic Himalaya on Earth, giving you a life-changing experience.
- Admire the remarkable views of Gokyo Lakes and take on the challenge of ascending Gokyo Ri.
- Reach Kala Patthar is seen as a mark of greatness and success among trekkers. Many endeavors to achieve this impressive feat, which is no small task.
- Experience the itinerary that combines novelty and tradition.
Itinerary of Gokyo Chola Pass Trek
Day 01: Arrival in Airport of the Nepal capital
As soon as you reach Tribhuvan Airport, one of our representatives will be there to greet and escort you to your accommodation. Once you arrive at your quarter, all you have to do is kick back and enjoy our services. At your leisure, you can stroll through Thamel streets.
Day 02: kathmandu to Lukla and hike to Phakding
The next day, you will take an early morning flight to Lukla to see the Nepalese hills and the Himalayas. It’s a short 30-minute flight, but it’s an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget.
After a hearty breakfast, you will then hike to the small village of Phakding, which is an excellent opportunity to see some of the local Sherpa cultures. You’ll see traditional houses, prayer stone walls, and monasteries and monks.
The scenery is beautiful, with several mountains in sight, rivers, and waterfalls. This is just a glimpse of what’s to come on your journey.
While in Phakding, you can explore the village or relax on the hotel veranda. Overnight accommodation is available at the hotel.
Day 03: Stroll to Namche Bazaar
The day starts with an early morning hike to reach Namche. You will stop in a tea house or hotel for breakfast and some rest. You will then continue your walk following the Dudhkoshi River. You will cross two cable bridges before reaching Monjo. Then, it’s a 20-minute head down to the entrance to National Park of Sgaramatha.
After lunch, you will resume your walk for approximately 3 hours until you reach Namche Bazaar. The trackway will take you through a pine forest before you arrive at Namche.
Day 04: Namche Bazaar acclimation
Today is a critical day for your body to prepare for tomorrow’s hike. Start with a nutritious breakfast, followed by light stretching and light jogging to warm your body up. After that, visit the museum and take in the sights of the local wildlife, plants, and culture.
End your day with a leisurely stroll around the market, picking up souvenirs and trying out some of the local cuisines. This is an enjoyable way to spend the day, allowing you to relax and refresh before tomorrow’s adventure!
Day 05:Namche to Tengboche
After your morning meal, you will commence your travel to Tengboche. On your passage, you will halt for few minutes for lunch at one of the tea houses en route. The rumble of the Dudhkoshi river, the pine forests, and the light breeze will make several hours of your hectic walking a welcome respite.
After some rest, you will continue your trail, which will become quite steep, and it will take approximately three hours to reach Tengboche. As you enter the village, you’ll be greeted by an amazing view of the stunning Ama Dablam mountain.
Next, you will arrive at the monumental monastery in the Khumbu region, the Tengboche Monastery. This village is a typical example of a Himalayan settlement, with houses made of stone grouped together and separated by narrow alleys.
The nearby forest, flowing river, and snowy peaks of the Himalayas provide a stunning backdrop to this simple way of life. The night stay in Tengboche allows you to explore this fascinating place in more depth.
Day 06: Walk to Dingboche From Tengboche
After breakfast, you will take about three hours to reach Pangbpche via the small Dibuche village. A long, gradual climb follows the trail through a rhododendron forest and over a bridge. You will reach the Pangboche village catching a glimpse of Ama Dablam.
Here you will take a short lunch break and continue your hike to Dingboche. The trail provides plenty of occasion to appreciate the surrounding natural allure and see yaks walking in a line carrying loads. You will rest the night in Dingboche.
Day 07: Dingboche acclimation
You can utilize this day by trudging to Nangkar Tshang and appreciate the magical territory of the world’s most impressive mountains, such as Thamserku, CholaTse Peak, and Lobuche Peak.
Return to Dingboche and lodging at the village hotel.
Day 08: stroll to Lobuche from Dingboche
The trek starts after breakfast as you take on a 4-5 hour walk to Lobuche village. The passage is comparatively steep but you ascend mostly through forests, with occasional stops at small villages along the way. You will come across a chorten and Dughla before arriving at Chupolari.
Once you appear in Lobuche, you will be requited with marvelous views of Mt. Everest and other summits in the area such as Ama Dablam and Nuptse.
Day 09: Lobuche to Gorakshep and EBC
A 3 hour hike at the crack of dawn will take you to Gorakshep, where you will go through health check-up for the further trek to EBC. Strolling on the Khumbu Glacier’s lateral moraine gives you an incredible view of the zenith and the peripheral mountains.
After another couple hours’ hike, you will ultimately be at EBC with all smiles and hugs, full of admiration and happiness. You will then rebound your travel to Gorakshep and spend the night here.
Day 10: Gorakshep to Kala Patthar and return to Dzongla
You will commence your exploration to Kala Patthar early in the morning; the 2-hour climb will escort you to the Kala Patthar summit. Enjoy the picturesque image of all the major Nepal mountains and head back to Gorakshep for lunch.
You will then head towards Dzongla, following the up-and-down trail that passes across the beautiful green lake of Chola Tsho. The town is the absolute place to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, so you will spend your right in Dzongla.
Day 11: Trek to Dragnak or Thangna via crossing Cho La Pass
Rise at dawn, and you will commence your hike to Chola Pass. As you pass through a steep and slippery traverse across the Ngozumpa Glacier, the trail needs a careful approach. You will spend some time at the pass where you can admire the beauty, rest, take pictures, and make a memory for a lifetime.
Then you will continue walking to the Dragnak village or Thangna as per your preference.
Day 12: Trek to Gokyo Lake
For a short hike of 2 to 2.5 hours, take the trek up to the top of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Then cross over it and you’ll come across Gokyo Lake, which is Nepal’s deepest lake. Spend some time here, take in the beautiful scenery and listen to serene sounds of the lake.
You will then arrive at the Gokyo village after passing the third lake. Tomorrow you will be ascending the Gokyo Ri, so it is better to prepare your torches before the early morning start.
Day 13: Ascend Gokyo Ri and trek to Dole
Gokyo Ri is a mountain in the Khumbu region of Nepal and it offers one of the most beautiful views in the world. To experience this amazing view, all you need to do is get up early and embark on a 2.5 hour trek up to its highest point.
The trek may be strenuous, but when you reach the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views, you will know that it was all worth it.
Have a small breakfast before trekking for 5 hours to reach the secluded village of Dole. Once there, you’ll have a chance to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the place before returning back to Namche.
Day 14: Trek to Namche
After breakfast, you will initiate the end of this amazing trek. Head back to the Namche market with approximately 5 hours of walk. You will pass the rest of the day exploring the Namche market, where you can buy some souvenirs. You will check in at the hotel at Namche, where you will be greeted with our farewell party.
Day 15: Trek back to Lukla
You are now on the final stretch of your hiking journey, back along the usual route from Phakding to Lukla. It will take you around 4 hours to get to the Lukla village where you can spend a night before heading back to Kathmandu.
Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu
In just half an hour, you will fly to Kathmandu and then be taken to your hotel. You’re free to spend the remaining day however you want – take it easy or explore the city. It’s completely up to you!
Day 17: Full-Day Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
Today, you’re invited to experience the wonders of Kathmandu on sightseeing tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel after breakfast and taken to some of Nepal’s most iconic landmarks – the Pashupatinath Temple, Swaymabhinath Temple, and the famous Bouddhanath Stupa.
Our knowledgeable driver will guide you through these ancient sites, providing insight into their history and culture. It promises to be an unforgettable trip – a chance to explore Kathmandu in all its glory!
Day 18: Departure
After breakfast, our team will aid you with hotel checkout and take you to the international airport 3 hours before departure.
Gokyo Chola Pass Trek: Essential Guide
Best Seasons for the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek
The best times for the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility of the majestic Himalayas.
- Spring (March–May): This season is known for blooming rhododendrons, mild temperatures, and spectacular views. It’s ideal for photography and comfortable trekking conditions.
- Autumn (September–November): The most popular trekking season, with dry weather and crystal-clear mountain panoramas. Trails are active but not overly crowded.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Trekkers face snow and freezing temperatures. The Chola Pass can be blocked, and only experienced trekkers should consider this time.
- Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rain makes the trails slippery, and visibility is limited. Risk of landslides is high.
Trek Difficulty and Challenges
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a moderately to strenuously difficult trek, suitable for fit trekkers with good stamina and prior hiking experience. It combines high altitude with steep ascents, glacier crossings, and long hiking days.
Main Challenges:
- High altitude: Maximum altitude of 5,420 meters at Chola Pass. Risk of altitude sickness is significant.
- Challenging terrain: The Chola Pass involves steep, icy, and often slippery conditions, especially in snow.
- Physical stamina: Trekkers need endurance for 6–8 hours of hiking daily, often on rocky and uneven paths.
Trek Route and Distance
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m) and follows the Dudh Koshi River valley to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital. From there, the trail diverges to the stunning Gokyo Valley, home to a series of turquoise lakes, and then ascends Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.
After Gokyo, the trail crosses the high and icy Chola Pass (5,420m) and merges with the traditional Everest Base Camp trail. Trekkers visit Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp (5,364m), and Kala Patthar (5,545m) before descending back via Pheriche and Namche.
Total Distance: Approximately 130–140 km
Trek Duration: 17–19 days (with acclimatization)
Handling Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a major concern on this trek. Gradual ascent and proper acclimatization days in Namche and Gokyo are essential.
Prevention Tips:
- Ascend slowly and include extra acclimatization days.
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
- Use Diamox if advised by your doctor.
- Know symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue.
- If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Physical Preparation
The trek demands strong cardiovascular fitness and leg strength. Train with hikes, long walks, jogging, or stair climbing while carrying a backpack.
Recommended Training:
- Regular aerobic exercises (4–6 weeks in advance)
- Weekend hikes with elevation gain
- Strength and endurance workouts
What to Expect
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a scenic, adventurous journey through quiet valleys, sacred lakes, high passes, and world-class mountain vistas.
Trek Highlights:
- Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri: Stunning lakes and one of the best views of Mount Everest.
- Chola Pass: A thrilling crossing with glaciers and snowfields.
- Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: Iconic landmarks.
- Sherpa culture: Visit monasteries and villages like Namche, Dole, and Thagnak.
- Wildlife: Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and pheasants can be spotted.
Group Size
Small groups of 2–10 people are ideal for better acclimatization and personal attention. Group treks often include experienced guides, porters, and a support team.
Accommodation, Food, and Water
Accommodation: Comfortable teahouses and lodges along the route, ranging from basic to premium in Namche and Gokyo.
Food: Nutritious meals include local dishes like Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, pasta, porridge, and eggs.
Water: Always drink boiled or purified water. Bottled water is expensive and discouraged due to environmental concerns.
Helicopter Services
Helicopter services are available from Gokyo, Gorak Shep, or Pheriche for trekkers who want a quicker return or experience health issues.
Safety
Guides from Kabru Adventure Holidays are trained in high-altitude safety, first aid, and equipped with satellite communication. All trekkers are advised to have insurance that covers emergency evacuation and high-altitude trekking.
Connectivity
Limited Wi-Fi is available in places like Namche and Gokyo, usually at an extra cost. Mobile networks may be spotty or unavailable at higher elevations.
Permits Required
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
(TIMS card is no longer required for Khumbu region)
All permits are arranged by Kabru Adventure Holidays.
Conclusion
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a thrilling blend of serene beauty and high-altitude adventure. From emerald lakes to iconic Everest views, this trek is perfect for those seeking a less-crowded, yet equally rewarding, alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp trail. With expert guidance, proper acclimatization, and an adventurous spirit, you’ll embark on a journey of a lifetime.
Most Asked Questions by Travellers
The trek is considered moderately to highly challenging due to high altitude, long walking days, and the steep ascent and descent at Cho La Pass (5,420m). Good fitness and acclimatization are essential.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are spectacular.
Typically, the trek takes 14–17 days, depending on the route and acclimatization days. It combines the Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass, and Everest Base Camp route.
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for long hiking days and changing weather conditions.
Yes. The trek reaches elevations above 5,000 meters. We include acclimatization days and recommend a slow, steady pace. Our guides are trained in altitude illness prevention and response.
You’ll stay in local teahouses and lodges along the trail. Rooms are basic but comfortable, and some places offer upgraded stays with private bathrooms and hot showers.
You’ll need the following permits, which we arrange for you:
-
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
-
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
-
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
Yes, helicopter return options are available from Gokyo or Gorak Shep to Kathmandu or Lukla at an additional cost. It’s ideal for those with limited time or health concerns.
Essential items include warm clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, headlamp, trekking poles, water purification tablets, and personal items. We provide down jacket, sleeping bag, duffel bag, and trekking pole on request.
Kabru offers experienced local guides, carefully crafted itineraries, safety-first trekking practices, customizable options, and warm Sherpa hospitality. We make your Himalayan journey unforgettable.