Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp

Experience Nepal New Generation Adventure And Trek with the Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp Trek. Trek through stunning landscapes, cross challenging passes, and witness breathtaking mountain views. Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture and challenge yourself to reach new heights.
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The Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding high-altitude treks in the Himalayas. It combines the beauty and adventure of two iconic regions in Nepal: the Everest region and the Gokyo Lakes area. This trek offers spectacular mountain views, a mix of culture and nature, and the opportunity to experience the highest places on earth.

The Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp trek takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, with the added challenge of crossing the high-altitude Chola Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet). The trek also includes a visit to Gokyo Lakes, a series of sacred, turquoise lakes that sit at the foot of the towering peaks of Cho Oyu and other Himalayan giants. From Gokyo, trekkers will experience one of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

This trek is considered more difficult and technically demanding than the standard Everest Base Camp trek due to the high-altitude pass crossing and longer distance. However, it rewards trekkers with a less crowded and more pristine route.

Region
Nepal
Duration
18 days
Level
hard
Max Altitude
5550 m.
Daily Activity
walking and hiking 4-6 hours a day
Season
April, May, September, October
Starting From
$ 2175
Nepal New Generation Trek offer 1+10 People
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Overview
Itinerary
Date/Cost
Includes
FAQ
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Brief Introduction

The Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp Trek is a legendary journey through the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, offering trekkers the rare opportunity to experience the magnificence of the world’s tallest mountains in their raw, untamed beauty. This trek combines the allure of the iconic Everest Base Camp with the stunning Gokyo Lakes and the challenging Chola Pass, making it one of the most exhilarating and rewarding treks in the world.

Starting from the vibrant city of Kathmandu, trekkers fly to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, and then embark on a route that takes them through Sherpa villages, alpine forests, and over rugged mountain paths. Along the way, you’ll encounter spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among other towering peaks, while traversing the remote and serene Gokyo Lakes—famed for their surreal turquoise waters.

The highlight of the trek is crossing the Chola Pass, a challenging high-altitude pass at 5,420 meters (17,782 feet), which offers breathtaking vistas but demands resilience and careful acclimatization. Once the pass is crossed, trekkers reach Everest Base Camp, standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak, and experience the thrill of walking in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers.

This trek is not only a physical challenge but also a deep immersion into the Sherpa culture, with visits to monasteries like Tengboche Monastery and interactions with local communities. It is a journey that rewards adventurers with unparalleled mountain landscapes, cultural richness, and the satisfaction of completing one of the most remarkable treks in the world.

Highlights of the Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Breathtaking Mountain Views: Witness the majestic peaks of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori.
  • Immerse in Sherpa Culture: Experience the rich culture and traditions of the Sherpa people.
  • Challenging Treks: Test your physical and mental limits as you ascend to higher altitudes.
  • Picturesque Villages: Explore charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
  • Serene Monasteries: Visit ancient monasteries and experience the spiritual side of the Himalayas.
  • High-Altitude Lakes: Discover the stunning beauty of the Gokyo Lakes.
  • Thrilling Pass Crossing: Conquer the challenging Cho La Pass, offering panoramic views.
  • Unforgettable Sunrises and Sunsets: Witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayas.
  • A Sense of Accomplishment: Achieve a lifelong goal and gain a sense of personal satisfaction.

     

 

 

 

 

Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 1 Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m)  
Our airport representative will be receiving you at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu and s/he will be displaying an Nepal New Generation signboard outside the airport terminal. You will be then transferred to your respective hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Note: If you happen to arrive after 4 pm you would be briefed about the trip by our guide, this will be the pre-trip meeting for you, so please make sure that you ask all the questions. But if you arrive earlier than 4 pm, your pre-trip meeting would be on that very day at our office. During the meeting, we will introduce your trek leader/guide. For the meeting, please make sure you bring the passport, three copies of passport-size photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy. During this meeting, please clear the due balance, if any, and sign the legally binding trip form as well as the non-liability disclaimer. Overnight at a hotel. No meals included.
Days: 2 Guided Sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley  
The very next morning, after breakfast you will be taken for a full day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley. You can visit center of pilgrimage Pashupatinath Temple and Swyambhunath, very ancient and essentially enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage sites. The biggest Buddhist Stupa at Boudhnath might make you feel calm and peace and visit Patan the city of fine arts and Durbar Square is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. On journey back to hotel, you can explore the local areas, gullies and lifestyle. After your dinner, you can perhaps take leisurely stroll through the famous streets like Thamel and Durbarmarg
Days: 3 Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2652m/8699ft (Walking Distance: 8 KM) Duration: 3 hours  
From Kathmandu, a flight to Lukla commences the trek. The Lukla flight is one of the most dramatic short flights in the world. The Lukla Airport itself is located on a hill and contains a single runway that drops off towards its end to the deep gaping valley below. Surrounded by tall mountains and jaded hills, the airstrip at Lukla is quite fascinating and the flight is deemed as a little thrilling adventure in itself. Upon arriving at Lukla, the change in the scenery is immediately felt. The mountainous landscape becomes quite prominent and the air carries a crisp freshness to it that only Himalayan atmosphere carries. From Lukla, the trekking trail slowly moves towards the Cheplung Village. View of the sacred Mount Khumbila from the village at Cheplung is beautiful. From there, a gradual walk downwards leads to the village of Phakding. The terrain is amazing and tall hills surround the trail like giant mounds of emeralds. From Phakding, the sight of the Kusum Kangraru Mountain can be seen. The village of Phakding lies in the Dudh Koshi River valley north of Lukla and contains many guesthouses and lodges that cater to tourism and trekkers. Overnight stay at the Guesthouse. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Days: 4 Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m/11283ft) (Walking Distance: 10-12 KM) Duration: 6 hours  
After breakfast at Phakding, the trail further opens out to reach the celebrated mountain town of Namche Bazaar. En route to Namche, several smaller villages are crossed, like Jorsale and Monjo. Monjo lies north of Phakding and is the entry point of the Sagarmatha National Park. The trail ventures through the national park and finally arrives at Namche. Walking along the trekking route through the Sagarmatha National Park presents many virtues, like its alpine woods, small rivers and brooks and deciduous forests. Thick acreages of Pine and Cedar cover the lands and provide a pleasant atmosphere to trek through. Namche Bazaar, because of its strategic location, is the commercial hub of the Khumbu region. It is located on a mountain side and views of the Thamserku Peak and the Kongdi RI Himal from here are amazing. Overnight stay at the Guesthouse. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Days: 5 Acclimatization Day - Hike to Everest View Hotel (Walking Distance: 3-4 KM) Duration: 3-4 Hours  
Namche is a great place to acclimatize. The sights around Namche are spectacular and beautiful. After breakfast, you can visit the Syangboche Airstrip that lies on a hill above the town. From here, you can get panoramic view of Namche and can see amazing sights of the Himalayas as well. Further from Namche lies the Everest View Hotel. The hotel is the highest located hotel in the world and provides view of Mount Everest and many other Himalayan peaks from all of its windows. Back at Namche, you can visit the Everest Photo Gallery and the Sherpa Culture Museum as well. Overnight stay at the Guesthouse. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Days: 6 Namchebazaar to Phortse Thanga  
Leave Namche along the direction of the gompa and turn right after the large rocks engraved with Buddhist images.The trek climbs the hill to Khumjung and descends to the valley of Dudhkoshi and arrives at Phortse Thanga (3,500m) which offers supreb views of Thamserku(6,608m), Kangtewa
Days: 7 Phortse Thanga to Machermo  
This will be another short day trek to aid acclimatization to the altitude.The path goes through the middle of forest and offers the first view of Cho you peak (8,153m), working , through rhododendron forest and juniper and large conifers appear as the elevation increases making the trekking beautiful in spring. The trail passes through kharkas and summer settlements to Dole after that we will work across a rocky terrain scattered with a few dwarf rhododendrons. Staying overnight at Machermo at (4,410m)
Days: 8 Machermo to Gokyo (4750m) walking hours: 4 hour  
Today, we climb through a ridge Chorten from where we can see remarkable view of both down the valley and of the Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8153m). Beyond the ridge the valley widens as the trail passes through a Chorten and reaches Pangka (4480 m) after some gentle walk. After crossing an iron bridge over an stream the trial levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4690m, where we get chance to observe the Lama footprints on a stone.The second lake, Taboche Tsho mesmerizes us by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little we reach the third lake, called Dudh Pokhari, linked by a surging stream to the previous one. Gokyo village stands by the third lake andCho-Oyu Mountain. Above the lake provides panoramic views of Cho Oyu,Gyachung Kang, Lhotse, Makalu, cholatse and Tawache. Stay overnight in a tea house lodge
Days: 9 Gokyo Lake explore around and trekking down to Thangnak (4700m) walking hours: 3 hours  
Spend a day in Gokyo strolling around the lakes and hiking up to some of the mountain viewpoints nearby. Start your trek in morning and get to steep climb of about 30min to reach the top with its traditional prayer flags. View the Ngozumpa glacier, the biggest glacier of Nepal. Definitely we would not miss the chance to observe the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho) and fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). From where you will have a magnificent view of highest peaks, from the west to east are Cho you (8,153m), Gyachung Kang (7,922m), Everest ( 8848m), Lhotse (8,501m) and further way Makalu. Trek down to Thangnak, enjoying superb view of Gokyo Lake. It can be a break point to Lobuche.
Days: 10 Thangnak- Cho La (5330m) crossing to Dzonglha (4830m) walking hours: 8 hours  
The trek to the Cho La pass can be a rather difficult route. But on the way you will be able to experience the best part of your hiking; difficult but very worthy. In good weather you can cross the Cho La with no special equipments but warm clothing and an ice axe might provide added peace to mind. The path skirts around the ridge, staying mostly level. Stop overnight at the village of Dzongla
Days: 11 Dzongla to Lobuche (4910m) walking hours: 3-4 hours  
The first step is gentle stroll between snowy peaks that seem almost close enough to touch. The trail runs east past a series of ominous looking black boulders beneath the looking peak of Cholatse. You can turn around to see the Ama Dablam (6856m). About 4 and half hour slowly working takes you Lobuche (4910m). On the way you can see Dughla Lake. Stark and rugged beauty creates almost moonscape campsite at Lobuche a windswept collection of huts tucked in a narrow meadow between the glacier and the Lobuche peak. Tawoche and Nuptse are particularly spectacularly from Lobuche towering.
Days: 12 Lobuche to Gorakshep (5170m), trekking to Everest Base camp (5364m) back to Gorak shep (5170m) walking hours: 6-8 hours  
The first section of the trail from Lobuche follows the narrow gap between the glacial moraine and the mountain walls, past turn off to the Italian pyramid. Take time to detour to the edge of moraine to look over the Khumbu glacier. Along windy and rocky path with the wonderful view of Mt. Pumori, Nuptse and other magnificent peaks, we reach Gorakshep. Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp with the new camp being further up the valley. After lunch our adventure continues towards Everest Base Camp. The trail passes through over rocky dunes and moraine and streams. The Base Camp area provides an opportunity to experience the freezing and harsh conditions that mountaineers brave to summit this famous mountain. In Everest Base Camp the climbers gather for summiting Everest during the high expedition season. We explore base camp and its surroundings glacier and return back to Gorakshep
Days: 13 Gorak Shep trekking Kala Patthar (5545m) and back to Pheriche (4280 m) walking hours: 6-7 hours  
It is around 7-8 hrs trail today. Mornings are usually sparkling and clear and this is the best time to climb the Kalapathar for one of the world's definitive mountain views. We will be rewarded the 360 degree dramatic panorama views of Mt Everest and surroundings mountains like Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku along with many other peaks You will have an easy walk for about 2hrs to reach Lobuche and continue downhill to Pheriche. Continue down moraine to Dughla and drop to the bridge over the gushing stream that flows out of the glacier. Stay overnight at lodge
Days: 14 Pheriche Trekking to Namche Bazaar via Pangboche and Tengboche (3867m) walking hours: 7 hours  
We will trek down through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. Ittakes approximately four hours to Tyangboche. It is a small village with a famous monastery offering you splendid views of Mt. Amadablam, lush green hills and river views. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River trek onwards to the Kyanjuma the junction of the trinity ways to Gokyo Valley, Khumjung village and Namche Bazzar. Dense wildlife of some species of Pheasants, Himalayan Griffons, Musk deer and wild goat can be found abundance inside the rhododendron forest. Evening explore small surrounding area with magnificent scenery.
Days: 15 Namche Bazaar trekking back to Phakding (2652m) walking hours: 4-5 hours  
The descent from Namche to the Dudh koshi can be the hardest stage of the entire trek. The trail descends over the ridge past rocky cliffs and scattered pines to the tiny village of Toktok. Although the path is all downhill, the unrelenting slope places massive impact on the knees. Once you cross the high suspension bridge, the path runs mostly level. We will work though rhododendron and pine forests with the view of distance snow covered peak before arriving Phakding. Phakding is a crowed place but better for your overnight settlement
Days: 16 Phakding trekking back to Lukla (2,850) walking hours: 2-3 hour  
It will be just a 3hr easy and gentle trail back to Lukla.Thetrail drops steeply and runs level through out the day.Enjoying the lush green scenery around and passing through the incredible mountain scenery and local Sherpa village arrival in Lukla. You'll have time to stroll around the local areas. In the evening you can enjoy a typical Nepalese dinner and cultural show.
Days: 17 Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu  
Saying final goodbye to our porters, we will have a flight back to ktm of an exciting one hour. (It also can be a spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla which makes the Lukla flight delayed and cancel.) At the evening you can have your last night in Nepal enjoying the Nepali cultural dinner show exchanging greetings among friends and with all Nepalese people. You can buy some souvenirs
Days: 18 Farewell Departure  
Today is free or last minute you have few hour special shopping for your relatives. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. We will drop you to the International airportto catch your flight back to your home and wish for your Safe journey.
Reservation & Date
Friday
03 Jan 2025
Friday
30 May 2025
$125 Off
$2175
$2300
12 Seats
Available
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Inclusion/ Exclusion

Inclusion/Exclusion  of Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp

Services Included
  • Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek and hotel stays in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
  • Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Permits: Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.
  • Guide and Porters: Experienced, licensed trekking guide and necessary porter(s) with their food, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Transportation: Round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, and ground transportation from the airport to the hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags and down jackets (if required, to be returned after the trek).
  • Safety Equipment: First aid kit, emergency rescue arrangements, and oxygen supply if needed.
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu (if included in the itinerary).
Services Excluded
  • International Flights: Airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees and processing costs.
  • Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, personal trekking gear, hot showers, charging devices, Wi-Fi, and laundry.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuation.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and other trekking staff.
  • Optional Activities: Additional sightseeing tours, cultural activities, or extra activities not included in the itinerary.
  • Unforeseen Costs: Expenses due to natural disasters, flight delays, or emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp Trek is considered challenging due to the combination of high altitudes, long trekking days, and the strenuous ascent over Chola Pass (5,420 meters). It requires good physical fitness and acclimatization.

The best time for the Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the clearest weather, with stable temperatures and stunning mountain views. The monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) are not ideal due to harsh weather conditions.

You will need the following permits: TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Sagarmatha National Park Permit Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit These permits can be obtained through a licensed trekking agency.

The highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar, which is at an altitude of 5,545 meters. It offers spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. Chola Pass, which is crossed en route, is also a challenging point at 5,420 meters.

Yes, altitude sickness is a potential concern, especially since you will be trekking to altitudes above 5,000 meters. Acclimatization is key, so the itinerary includes rest days to help your body adjust. Always follow your guide’s advice and listen to your body if symptoms arise.

The Gokyo Chola Pass and Everest Base Camp Trek typically takes around 16 to 18 days, depending on the pace, acclimatization schedule, and rest days. It covers a variety of terrains and allows for proper altitude adjustment.

While previous trekking experience is not strictly required, it is recommended. Having experience in high-altitude trekking or hiking in rough terrain will make the trek easier and more enjoyable.

No, this trek is in a restricted area, and it is mandatory to trek with a guide. A licensed guide and porter will help with navigation, safety, and managing the physical demands of the trek.

Accommodation is typically in teahouses or lodges along the trail. Rooms are shared with basic amenities such as a bed, blankets, and shared bathrooms. The accommodations become more basic as you ascend, especially at higher altitudes.

Most teahouses offer a variety of food, including dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, pasta, and fried rice. In higher altitudes, food options become more limited, but you’ll always find something to fuel your trek.

Most teahouses along the trek offer charging services for a small fee. However, as you get higher into the mountains, electricity may become scarce. It’s a good idea to bring a power bank to ensure you have enough charge for your devices.

Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses, although the connection can be slow and unreliable, especially in remote areas. You can also purchase a local SIM card in Kathmandu for limited phone and internet coverage.

Yes, the trek provides stunning views of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks like Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The views from Kala Patthar are among the best in the region, offering a close-up view of Everest.

Essential gear includes proper trekking boots, warm layers (especially for high-altitude temperatures), a sleeping bag, rain gear, and trekking poles. Make sure to bring a daypack, a headlamp, sunglasses, and a power bank for your electronics.

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking (up to 5,545 meters), medical emergencies, and emergency evacuation. It’s crucial to have the right coverage to deal with unforeseen circumstances.

While it’s possible to trek during winter (December to February), it’s not ideal because temperatures can drop significantly, and some teahouses may be closed due to snow and cold weather. Trekking in winter requires more preparation and experience.

Preparation involves building physical endurance through long hikes, cardiovascular exercises, and strength training. Acclimatization training is also important. Practice hiking with a backpack and trekking at altitudes to simulate the conditions of the trek.