EBC Trek Via Gokyo Lakes Chola Pass
Gokyo Lakes Chola Pass Trekking
Gokyo Lakes Chola Pass Trek
Trip Photos

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

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Group Adventures
Personalized Adventures
Duration17 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeStrenuous
Maximum Altitude5,545m
Group Size1-14
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeMarch - May & Mid. Sept - Dec

If you are looking for an adventurous trek in Everest that goes beyond the standard EBC route, then the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass is one of the very attractive packages. You will spend a little over two weeks on this trek exploring the Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, and towering mountains. 

The 17 days Everest Base Camp Chola pass Gokyo trek is a remote wilderness trek that involves the adventure of discovering the eastern Himalayan range in Nepal. On this trek, you will get to see some of the tallest mountains in the world and diverse landscapes that range from lush valleys to rock gorges and glaciers. 

Trek to the lap of the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest (8,849 m). Likewise, witness a close view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m)- the 3rd highest mountain in the world, Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m)- the 4th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Makalu (8,463 m)- the 5th highest mountain in the world, and Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m)- the 6th highest mountain in the world. 

Apart from these mountains, you will see many other stunning peaks like Nuptse (7,861 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Island Peak (6,165 m), Cholatse (6,440 m), Pumori (7,161 m), etc. You will thoroughly enjoy high altitudes because the trek takes you over 5,000 meters multiple times. The route has a perfect balance of well-marked trails and offbeat, isolated sections.

Highlights of Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

  • An adventurous trek in the Everest region that goes a little over two weeks
  • Trek through rhododendron forests, crossing many suspension bridges and Sherpa villages 
  • Spend two nights in the famous Namche Bazaar, acclimatizing
  • Reach the base of the highest mountain in the world, Everest Base Camp
  • Witness a stunning sunrise and mountain view from Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri
  • Explore the high alpine Gokyo Lakes and spend two nights in the beautiful Gokyo village
  • Trek through the moraine of the  biggest glacier in Nepal and cross the Cho La pass
  • A life-changing trekking venture that offers diverse landscapes, rugged Himalayan foothills, and tranquility

Why will you love the Gokyo Chola pass Everest Base Camp trek?

The Gokyo Chola pass Everest Base Camp trek allows you to explore beautiful Sherpa villages, high alpine lakes, and glaciers. It is a true adventurous trek that takes trekkers deep in the Himalayas. You will be surrounded by high mountains and tranquility. Enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets throughout the venture. 

Start the trek from Lukla. A short flight will bring you here from Kathmandu. It is a gentle descent from Lukla to Phakding before you ascend to Namche Bazaar. The Sagarmatha National Park begins from Monjo onwards. You will get two acclimatization days following our Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass itinerary.

On the acclimatization days, you will hike to the Hotel Everest View and spend the night in Namche Bazaar, and hike to Gokyo Ri and spend the night in Gokyo Village. These hikes will help you adjust to the elevation and avoid altitude sickness. As a bonus, you will get to witness jaw-dropping mountain panoramas.

What to expect during the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass?

On this trek, you will first explore Namche Bazaar and follow a less-traveled route to Gokyo village via Phortse Thanga and Machhermo. On the way, you will walk through the moraine of Ngozumpa Glacier, the biggest glacier in Nepal. Explore the holy Gokyo Lakes. 

There are five Gokyo Lakes. You will pass by the 1st and 2nd Gokyo Lakes to the 3rd one, where the Gokyo Village is located. On your rest day, hike to the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes. After exploring the Gokyo Valley, you will hike to Cho La pass. Come across isolated Chola Lake on the way. 

Crossing the pass, descend to Dgonzle and continue the trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Spend nights in Lobuche and Gorak Shep on the way. After excursions to Kala Patthar, the trail descends to Phercihe and takes you back to Lukla via Namche Bazaar. This marks the end of the trek, and you will fly back to Kathmandu.

Do I have to be super fit to do the Everest Gokyo Lake Cho La pass trek?

Fitness does matter a lot for this trek, however you do not have to be super fit or an athlete. It is a trekking adventure, not climbing, so with a bit better stamina and strength, you will be able to complete the trek. On top of that, our pro guide and friendly porter will be there with you to encourage you. 

You might be wondering how to know whether you are fit for the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass or not. If you have previous trekking experience and can walk 6 hours a day, then you qualify for this trek. If you do not have previous trekking experience, go on a few day hikes and exercise before the trek starts. 

Why do the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass with Recreation Holidays?

There are many reasons that make us the best trekking partner in Nepal for any trek. Below, we have mentioned some of the perks that travelers get by traveling with our team:

  • Native guide and porter to support you during the trek. They will assure your safety while crossing the moraines and the Cho La pass. Likewise, they will also make sure you are getting the best rooms and meals throughout the trek. 
  • You get a genuine Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass price with us. Our package is not overpriced and allows you to enjoy the trek without hidden charges. 
  • We contribute a lot to the mountain community and are well aware of our impact during trekking. Trekking with us allows you to travel sustainably while indirectly supporting the small business along the way. 
  • Our itinerary is flexible, so you can tailor make it according to your requirements.
ItineraryExpand All
Day01

You will have a short meet and greet at the airport in Kathmandu with our team representatives. They will pick you up from the airport and drop you at the hotel. Rest in the hotel and later meet us for a trek briefing. Do the final preparation and end the day exploring the bustling streets of Thamel.

Max Altitude: 1,345mAccommodation: Hotel
Day02

In the morning, fly to Lukla. From Lukla, you will trek to Phakding. The trail descends via the forests alongside the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross this river numerous times on the way and also pass by small villages.

 

*Note: The Lukla flight takes off from Ramechhap Airport in the spring and autumn seasons. It takes around 4 to 5 hours to drive from Kathmandu to reach this village. 

Max Altitude: 2,610mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day03

Leaving Phakding, you will trek to Namche Bazaar. The trail continues via lush forests and small settlements. You will register the permits in Monjo village. From here, keep trekking through dense forests. The trail greatly ascends and gets steep towards the end of the route. You will cross many suspension bridges on this day as well.

Max Altitude: 3,440 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day04

You will spend this day in Namche Bazaar acclimating and resting. In the morning, walk up to the Hotel Everest View to witness beautiful views of Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Nuptse. After the hike, return to Namche Bazaar and explore the town. Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery.

Max Altitude: 3,962mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day05

From Namche Bazaar, the trail ascends to Phortse Thanga. You will trek through rhododendrons and juniper forests. The trail goes past yak grazing sites and crosses a few suspension bridges on the way.

Max Altitude: 3,680mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day06

You will follow a less crowded route from Phortse Thanga to Machhermo. Climb following a ridge that presents breathtaking mountain views. The trail descends to a river and further follows an uphill steep route. You will also trek via forest on the way and come across a lovely waterfall.

Max Altitude: 4,470mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day07

From Machhermo, you will trek to Gokyo village. The trail goes via pastures to Phanga. From here, you will ascend following a narrow path to the first Gokyo Lake. Further, passing by the second lake continues to the third lake where Gokyo village is situated.

Max Altitude: 4,790 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day08

You will spend the second acclimatization day in Gokyo village. Early in the morning, hike to Gokyo Ri, which is a viewpoint. The route is steep and rocky. From here, hike to the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes. Enjoy the views and later return to Gokyo village to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,400mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day09

After our rest day at Gokyo village, we continue trekking to Thagnak. On the way, navigate the moraine of Ngozumpa Glacier. It is the biggest glacier in Nepal. The trail ascends and descends via rocky tracks. Thagnak is located on the side of the glacier in a serene setting.

Max Altitude: 4,790mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day10

On this day, you will cross the Cho La pass. From Thagnak, the trail goes through glacier moraines and gradually ascends to the top of the Cho La pass. The mountain view is outstanding from here. Further, you will descend following the icy and slippery route to Dzongla for the night stay. On the way, see the stunning view of Cho La Lake and Mt. Cholatse.

Max Altitude: 5,420 mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day11

From today onwards, you will follow the route that leads to the Everest Base Camp. Leaving Dzongla, follow the Khumbu Glacier and trek past the memorial chortens. The trail is steep on the way to Lobuche village.

Max Altitude: 4,910mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day12

From Lobuche, you will walk via the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and follow a steep, boulder-filled track to Gorak Shep. You will drop the heavy luggage at the lodge and hike for a couple of hours to reach the base camp of Mount Everest. Explore the base camp and later descend to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,364mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day13

You have one more gentle hike from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar before you begin descending to Pheriche. Kala Patthar is a viewpoint and offers an excellent sunrise and jaw-dropping panorama of Mount Everest and other peaks. After enjoying the view, you will retrace the path via Gorak Shep to Lobuche village. Further, descend to Pheriche.

Max Altitude: 5,545mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day14

You will leave Pheriche early in the morning and trek to Namche Bazaar. It is a long trek via small villages, lush forests, and verdant foothills. Enjoy lovely landscapes and mountain views on the way. After arriving at Namche Bazaar, rest. Later, visit local cafes and souvenir shops later in the day.

Max Altitude: 3,440mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day15

From Namche Bazaar to Lukla, the trail is the same. Descend through rhododendron forests and cross many suspension bridges while passing by several villages. From Phakding onwards, you will climb to Lukla.

Max Altitude: 2,846mMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse
Day16

Take a morning flight back to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you at the hotel. You have the rest of the day leisure in the city. It is a great time to relax and later explore the local markets and buy souvenirs. In the late evening, we may meet for a farewell dinner.

Max Altitude: 1,345mMeals: Breakfast and Farewell DinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Day17

Our team will drop you at the airport. Be ready to leave your hotel on time and double-check your room before leaving it.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: No
Is the proposed itinerary suitable for you?If you are looking for a custom itinerary, please feel free to reach out to our team of professionals at any time.
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Trip Service Details
Includes
  • Airport Transfers: Meet-and-greet service at Kathmandu International Airport, with transfer to your hotel.
  • Accommodation: 2-night stay in Kathmandu hotel with breakfast (twin sharing).
  • Flights: Round-trip flight from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla, including airport transfers.
  • Permits: All necessary permits, including National Park, TIMS, and local permits.
  • Trekking Accommodation: 14-night twin-sharing accommodation during the trek.
  • Meals: Three daily meals during the trek (14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners).
  • Equipment: Provision of a duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket for use during the trek (to be returned upon completion).
  • Guide: English-speaking guide equipped with first aid knowledge and a medical kit.
  • Field Staff: Comprehensive insurance for field staff, including their salary.
  • Return Flight: Flight back to Kathmandu/Ramechhap from Lukla, with transportation.
  • Certificate: Achievement certificate available upon request.
  • Farewell Dinner: Hosted in Thamel, Kathmandu.
  • Luggage Storage: Complimentary luggage storage during the trek.
  • Departure Transfer: Departure airport transfer service provided.
Excludes
  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal.
  • Visa and Insurance: Nepal visa fees and travel insurance.
  • Kathmandu Meals and Accommodation: Meals in Kathmandu beyond breakfast, as well as additional accommodation nights.
  • Porter Service: Available for USD 300 per porter, with a maximum load of 20-25 kg.
  • Trek Expenses: Personal expenses during the trek, including hot showers, drinks, extra meals, Wi-Fi/data, battery charging, and accommodation upgrades.
  • Tips: Gratuities for trek staff are expected.
  • Other: Any item not listed in the "INCLUSION" section.
Add-ons & Options
  • Porter service: You have the option to add a porter service to your Gokyo Cho La pass trek package at USD 300 per person for the entire trip. He will help you carry the duffel bag. The weight limit is 9 kg per trekker. One porter carries a bag for two trekkers. 
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu: A guided sightseeing tour will allow you to learn about the history and stories behind the famous historical sites in Kathmandu. The tour guide will make the excursions immersive with his knowledge. It costs USD 120 per person for a 4 to 5-guided sightseeing tour. 
  • Single rooms for solo trekkers: During the trek, you will get two shared rooms, which you have to share with a fellow trekker. If you are not comfortable sharing the room, you can opt for single rooms by paying USD 350 per person for the whole trip. 
  • Helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla or Kathmandu: The Everest Gokyo Cho La trek is challenging and long. If you feel very tired and can't think you can trek back to Lukla, then opt for a helicopter flight from Gorak Shep to Lukla or Kathmandu. As per the landing destination, the helicopter flight cost varies.
Dates & Availability
December 2024
March 2025
April 2025
May 2025
September 2025
October 2025
November 2025
December 2025
March 2026
April 2026
May 2026
StartsDecember 24, 2024
EndsJanuary 09, 2025
StatusGuaranteed
Price
US$1195

Our scheduled trekking tours, as featured on our website, are set to proceed, ensuring your plans are secure. If our listed departure dates don't align with your schedule, please contact us to arrange a custom trip tailored to fit your preferred timeline. We offer private trips year-round, allowing you to choose a departure date that suits you. Secure your spot now to benefit from our most competitive offers. For those looking to travel with colleagues or friends, we can customize the tour to accommodate private or group travel needs.

Additional Info

Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass permit

For the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass, you will need the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entrance permit. Both permit fees are covered in our package cost.

  • Sagarmatha National Park permit cost: USD 30 per person
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entrance permit cost: USD 20 per person

Guide and porter for the trek

Our package cost covers a guide expense for the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass. However, if you want a porter for the journey, you can add it while booking the trek. Simply put the services in your basket while purchasing the package via our website. 

Trekking with a guide and porter makes it easy for you to complete the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass safely. You get to know the region closely and spend nights in the most comfortable lodges. Likewise, they will help you with all of your needs. 

EBC Gokoy Lakes Cho La pass trek difficulty

The Everest Base Camp Chola pass Gokyo trek is challenging. This trek is for individuals who have previous trekking experience. The trek demands good fitness and stamina. You will trek on diverse terrain and altitudes. There are many ascents and descents throughout the trek. 

With the progress of the journey, the region will get more and more isolated, and the services will decrease. You will trek via dense forests, rugged foothills, and glacier moraines. Each day, 6 hours of minimum walking is needed. All these factors make this trek suitable for those who are fit and can handle the hurdles. 

How to avoid altitude sickness during the trek?

The Everest Base Camp Chola pass Gokyo trek sees high altitudes. On this trek, you will spend many days above 3,000 meters and go above 5,000 meters four times. At the same, you will also get ample time to acclimatize, which lowers the chances of altitude sickness.

However, it does not mean you can be careless. Trekkers have to keep themselves hydrated during the Gokyo Chola pass Everest Base Camp trek. It is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Likewise, you also need to maintain your pace. Do not rush or strain your body unnecessarily. It will lead to exhaustion and symptoms of altitude sickness.

What are the requirements for travel insurance for the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass?

The Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass requires travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation. Trekking with travel insurance allows you to travel freely and enjoy the journey to the fullest. You do not have to be unnecessarily attentive all the time. 

Trekkers can also include other coverages like medical bills, loss/theft of personal belongings, trip cancellation, international flight cancellation, etc, in their travel insurance. You have to give the travel insurance documents before the trek starts, so bring the papers with you. 

Accommodation and meals during the trek

Lodge accommodation is provided with three meals a day during the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass. It is a simple accommodation for trekkers. You get twin shared rooms, and washrooms are common in most places. 

Services like charging, WiFi, and hot showers are available in many lodges, but you have to pay extra money for them. Similarly, food options are also great in the Everest region. The Gokyo Valley is a bit on the remote side with limited options and expensive prices, but you will get good choices for food. 

Like any trek in Nepal, dal bhat and thukpa will be your main meal. You will also have options like rice with curries, fried rice, stew, momo, noodles, pasta, porridge, soups, etc. Veg and non-veg dishes are widely available. Likewise, the boiled water provided in the lodes is safe to drink. 

*Note: You can use water purification tablets to treat the boiled water if you are not sure. 

FAQs

From Gokyo Lakes, you will reach the Everest Base Camp in three days of walking. The trail goes from Gokyo Village to Thagnak. From here, ascend to Cho La pass and descend to Dzongla. The trail then follows the Khumbu Glacier and climbs to Everest Base Camp via Lobuche village and Gorak Shep.

The Gokyo Lakes trail separates Namche Bazaar onwards. You will follow a less crowded, offbeat route. The trail is quite tricky and requires extra attention. You will also navigate the glacier moraine on the way. With decent fitness, it is not that challenging to Goyo lakes.

The Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass is a challenging trip in the Khumbu region. This trek is for experienced trekkers who have good fitness. The trek is challenging in terms of weather, terrain, elevation, and facilities along the way.

This trek can get very demanding for beginner trekkers. We do not recommend the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass to beginners unless they are fit and can handle the challenges of this trek.

Yes, travel insurance is necessary for the Everest Gokyo Lakes Cho La pass trek. It must include helicopter evacuation. You can get travel insurance in your country. There are many travel insurance providers for treks in the Himalayas.

Yes, it is totally okay to let porters carry your duffel bags while trekking in the Himalayas. They know the trail and how to navigate with a load on them. It is their work and helps them put food on the table for their family. If you feel thankful for their service, make sure to tip your porter.

You will not come across any dangerous wild animals along the Everest trail. However, you may share the trail with yaks and mules occasionally. They are used to transport goods. Likewise, you may see birds on the way.

If you get altitude sickness during the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La pass, the guide will help you with first aid. He will monitor your progress and make sure you are safe. If the symptoms escalate and require more medical attention, we will evacuate you in a helicopter to Kathmandu.

It depends on your cancellation timing. The closer you cancel the trip from the day it is supposed to start, the less refund you will get. Read our trip cancellation and refund policy here.

We offer special discounts on big groups. If you are 6 or more trekkers, you will get a discount per head. The bigger the group, the better deal you will get.

Travelersā€™ Review
Mission Impossible..Made Possible ..EBC with Gokyo Ri & Chola Pass trek with Recreation Holidays

I did the EBC via Gokyo Ri trek with Recreation Holidays with a friend in April '24 for 14 days. Hari, the proprietor planned the itenary very well taking into...

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Amol Karmalkar
Amol Karmalkar - IndiaMay 28, 2024
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