Introduction to Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek
The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is more technically advanced than some of the other treks in the area – and therefore more adventurous!
It encompasses all the ‘usual’ sights in the area, such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Gorak Shep, and Everest Base Camp, but also includes a visit to the Gokyo Lakes by crossing the high altitude Cho La Pass (5,330m).
There are some long days of 8 to 9 hours but the majority are 5 to 6 hours in length. This is a stunning trek for those with stamina and a sense of adventure.
The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is more technically advanced than some of the other treks in the area – and therefore more adventurous!
It encompasses all the ‘usual’ sights in the area, such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Gorak Shep, and Everest Base Camp, but also includes a visit to the Gokyo Lakes by crossing the high altitude Cho La Pass (5,330m).
There are some long days of 8 to 9 hours but the majority are 5 to 6 hours in length. This is a stunning trek for those with stamina and a sense of adventure.
Flying in and out of Lukla ensures the maximum amount of time is spent in the mountains. However, acclimatization is a must and this is done in the famous Namche Bazaar, from where it is possible to take a short, but steep walk to Syangboche for your first close-up of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
On this excursion, you can also visit Khumjung Village and the Khumjung Hillary School, started by Sir Edmund Hillary to give back to the Sherpa people.
This trek takes you through Rhododendron and pine forests, across a waterfall, and through high pasturelands, past chortens, and fluttering prayer flags.
Coming close to the Ngozumpa Glacier trekkers are awarded for making the narrow and steep climb when they reach three of the Gokyo Lakes with their turquoise, clear water.
A highlight of this trek is the steep climb up to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) to view Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. This climb provides you with both stunning mountain views and acts as acclimatization for the long day ahead to cross the Cho La Pass.
In order to cross the pass before the winds set in, it is necessary to start the day very early, around 4 or 5 am. It’s a tough day with the top of the pass being at over 5,300 m. Part of the trail is over ice, making it a real once-in-a-lifetime achievement!
This feeling of achievement continues as the trekking route goes on to Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, and Kalapatthar, also known as Everest View Point.
This trek certainly has its challenges such as long and strenuous walking days but the rewards more than make up for it in terms of personal achievement and a unique album of glorious photographs! If you think trekking is not for you. but you still want to see gokyo chola pass and EBC, consider doing a Everest Base Camp Helicopter tour.
Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek Highlights
Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Kathmandu – 1300 m / 4265 ft
We will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. You will also get a briefing from us regarding your trek. The rest of your day is free to explore the city.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
Phakding – 2651 m / 8697 ft – 3 hrs
Flying into Lukla is spectacular! The surrounding mountains and the airstrip below make it feel like an impossible task for the pilot. But these are experienced guys who have done this hundreds of times!
After your trek team collects your bags, and perhaps after a cup of hot tea, set off to hike to Phakding a couple of hours away. Here is your first overnight stop in the Himalayas!

Phakding
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar – 3438 m / 11279 ft
Today we enter the Sagarmatha National Park and rhododendron forests and have the challenge of walking over suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
If you haven’t been on suspension bridges (except the one you crossed the day before) it can be a bit daunting at first. But you will get used to it. On arrival in Namche, you will understand why this is the hub for many climbers and trekkers – it is a very vibrant town as a result of this!

Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Namche – 3,700 m / 12,139 ft – 4 to 5 hrs
Acclimatization never means rest! The best way to get your body used to the high altitude is to remain active. So why not head out to see some of the surrounding sights? Khumjung village is known mainly for its ancient (although restored after the 2015 earthquake) monastery and its connection with Sir Edmund Hillary. Khunde Hospital and Khumjung School were both set up by Sir Edmund thanks to the Sherpa people in the area.
And of course, what you came for, Mt Everest is in full view from the Everest View Hotel. Hike on over for a cup of coffee and a spectacular view of Everest from their terrace.
Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Dole
Dole – 3680 m / 12073 ft
After breakfast starts hiking up the Dudh Koshi Valley before descending into pine and rhododendron forests where the trail divides.
On the way pass many Buddhist stupas and waterfalls and be awed by the views of Thamserku, Everest, Ama Dablam, and more. We turn left at the fork in the trail to head towards Gokyo Lakes and onwards till we reach the village of Dole.

Dole
Day 6: Dole to Machhermo
Machhermo – 3870 m / 12696 ft
This beautiful scenic trail is a steep climb taking you through scrub juniper. Leaving Dole there is an uphill gradient for around half an hour then a gentler uphill the rest of the way.
The Dudh Koshi River lies far below. Hiking on towards the tiny teahouse settlement of Machhermo the trail comes to a ridge above the village with stunning views of Thamserku.

Macchermo
Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo (Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri)
Gokyo – 4800 m / 15748 ft – 4 hrs
Leaving Machhermo the trail today is not too strenuous, with only one or two short steep sections. The trail descends to the Dudh Koshi River before a steep climb to the Ngozumpa Glacier and the first Gokyo Lake.
While the first lake is small, the second lake is quite long and runs parallel to the hiking trail. At the 3rd lake, we find some teahouses where we stop for lunch.
After lunch, we climb up to Gokyo Ri which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. The viewpoint at Gokyo Ri is a high 5,357 meters, with a great panorama of mountains above and lakes and glaciers below – particularly beautiful at sunset.

Gokyo
Day 8: Gokyo to Thagnak (Morning hike to Gokyo 4th Lake)
Thagnak – 5367 m / 17608 ft
A short hike takes us to the 4th Gokyo lake or rather to a viewpoint above the lake. Trekking on, cross glacier and rocky terrain to reach Thagnak, which has very few teahouses and from where everyone is planning to cross the Chola Pass the next day.

Thagnak
Day 9: Thagnak to Cho Dzongla via CholaPass
Cho Dzongla – 4843m / 15889 ft – 8 hrs
Today it’s an early start from around 3 am in order to climb the Chola Pass (5,330m). This pass connects the main Everest Base Camp trail with the Gokyo region. Since you are trekking over a glacier at some points, crampons are a must for this pass.
This tough day ends at Cho Dzongla village for some much-needed rest and a good dinner. Naturally, the views on this route make up for the long day.

Cho Dzongla (Dzongla)
Day 10: Dzongla to Lobuche
Lobuche – 4940 m / 16207 ft
Today is a pretty easy and short day with a flat trail. You also won’t see many trekkers until you reach the main trail near Lobuche.

Lobuche
Day 11: Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar)
Gorakshep – 5368 m / 17611 ft – 8 hrs
Today we follow the Khumbu Glacier until we reach Gorakshep. This is in fact the nearest village to Everest Base Camp. In the afternoon there is a hike up to Kalapatthar, which has the best views of Everest than even EBC. Kala Patthar translates into ‘black rock’ and is the highest we can hike in Nepal without transferring our trekking permit to a climbing one.
The close-up views of Everest are out of this world, as to are the views of Nuptse and Changtse. The best times to hike up here are perhaps sunset and sunrise – but at any time the views are spectacular.
After climbing Kala Patthar returns to Gorakshep for the night.

Gorakshep
Day 12: Gorakshep to Pheriche (Morning hike to EBC)
Pheriche – 4200 m / 13779 ft – 8 hrs
On leaving Gorakshep we hike along the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp, passing many fluttering prayer flags on the way. This is approximately a 4 hour round trip. We will return to Gorakshep for breakfast before setting out for Pheriche, approximately 4 hours away.
Here there is the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic which focuses on altitude sickness for trekkers and climbers as well as other issues among the local population. They also conduct classes on altitude sickness and help porters who require any medical treatment.

Pheriche
Day 13: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar – 3440 m / 11286 ft
Although this is a long day of hiking, as you descend in altitude the walking seems a little easier. You will also notice the rising temperature, which is pretty welcome after the earlier colder days. Forests and greenery have returned giving this trail a different look from what has gone before.
On reaching Namche a comfortable hotel and delicious dinner are waiting!
Day 14: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Lukla – 2860 m / 9383 ft
After breakfast, we set to say goodbye to the Sherpas at Namche and follow the Dudh Koshi River to Lukla where we overnighted wait for the flight back to Kathmandu.

Lukla
Day 15: Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)
Kathmandu
Once again the flight is spectacular – filled with mountain and farmland views until finally, we reach the city of Kathmandu. We will escort you to your hotel and give again the flight is spectacular – filled with mountain and farmland views until finally, we reach the city of Kathmandu.
We will escort you to your hotel and give you the tips you want on how to spend the rest of your day you tips if you want on how to spend the rest of your day.
Day 16: Final Departure
Departure
After breakfast, our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your onward flight. Should you stay longer in Nepal or have a late flight, please note that the hotel check-out time is 11 am.
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Includes
Veg
Wide variety of Vegeterian food is available on the trek
Vegan
Wide variety of Vegan food is available on the trek
Packing List for Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek
Items | Details | Quantity |
---|---|---|
Underwear | Underwear Breathable synthetic | 3 |
Socks | Wool BYO | 3 |
Bra | Sports BYO | |
Base layers – Pants | Merino wool BYO | 1 |
Trekking shirt | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase it in Kathmandu | 2 |
Rain pants | Synthetic lightweight Frogg Toggs are excellent | 1 |
Trekking pants | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase in Ktm | 2 |
Hiking Shoes/Boots | BYO Salmon Quest 4D or Xultra 3 or 4 | 1 |
Camp shoes | Down booties BYO or purchase in Ktm | 1 |
Gloves | One pair of thin merino wool. 2nd pair thick insulated | 2 |
Hat | Sun hat or peak cap with neck protection. BYO | 1 |
Down Jacket | BYO | 1 |
Wind Breaker | BYO | 1 |
Note: Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu, while all other trekking equipment can be easily purchased. We at Magical Nepal will assist you in getting all your essentials sorted, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight
Due to recent government regulations, there are no direct flights from Kathmandu to Ramechap. As a result, we must undertake a six-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechap. Since there are no good hotels in the area, we will need to depart at 1:00 AM to catch our flight to Lukla from Ramechap.
Read Before your book Gokyo Chola Everest Base Camp Trek
To help you determine if the Gokyo Chola Everest Base Camp Trek is right for you, we’ve provided detailed information on key aspects such as flight details, trek difficulty, and the best times to visit. Each section also includes a video explanation to guide you in planning your trip smoothly.
If you’re still unsure whether this trek is the perfect choice for you, feel free to reach out to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours to answer any additional questions.
During the Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek, trekkers stay in traditional tea houses, which are run by local families. These accommodations are designed to provide basic comfort and warmth while ensuring an authentic Himalayan experience.
Quality and Comfort Level
Tea houses typically offer basic twin-sharing rooms, furnished with wooden beds, thin foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. At higher altitudes, rooms become more modest and less insulated, so carrying a sleeping bag (rated -15°C) is highly recommended.
Hot showers are available at most tea houses for an additional fee, ranging from NPR 300-500. As you ascend to higher altitudes, these facilities may become less reliable.
Dining areas are communal and often feature a warm stove, creating a cozy space to relax after a long day of trekking. Many dining areas also offer charging points for electronic devices, usually for a small fee.
Wi-Fi connectivity is available in some tea houses but can be slow and comes at an additional cost. At higher altitudes, Wi-Fi is either unavailable or very limited.
Amenities to Note
Shared bathrooms are the norm, and at higher altitudes, these facilities can be very basic, sometimes involving squat toilets.
Trekkers are encouraged to bring their own toiletries and personal hygiene essentials like toilet paper and hand sanitizers.
Note:
- Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis
- The Private Room is available at an additional charge during checkout.
Tea houses along the trail provide a variety of meals to keep trekkers nourished and energized. The food is generally simple, hygienic, and carb-heavy, designed to meet the high energy demands of trekking in the Himalayas.
Meal Inclusions
Most trek packages include three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Meals are ordered from the tea house menu, and trekkers can choose between local and Western dishes.
Special dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian or vegan meals) are usually accommodated. However, trekkers with strict dietary preferences are advised to bring supplementary snacks or protein options.
Breakfast Options
Typical breakfast choices include Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, or eggs (boiled, scrambled, or fried).
Hot beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate are commonly served and help with staying warm in the mornings.
Lunch and Dinner Options
The iconic Nepali dish dal bhat (a combination of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry) is the most popular meal. Known for being nutritious and unlimited (refills are common), it is the preferred choice for trekkers.
Other options include noodles, fried rice, soups, spaghetti, and momos (dumplings). These meals provide the necessary carbs to sustain energy levels for long trekking days.
Trekkers can also try local Sherpa delicacies such as Sherpa stew, a hearty soup with dumplings or noodles, perfect for warming up after a cold day on the trail.
Snacks and Hot Drinks
Tea houses also offer a variety of snacks, including energy bars, biscuits, and chocolates. Prices increase as you go higher, so bringing your own snacks from Kathmandu is a good idea.
Hot drinks like ginger tea, lemon tea, or masala tea are must-try options, especially for staying hydrated and warm.
Hygiene and Food Safety
The food provided is generally hygienic, but trekkers are advised to stick to boiled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Tea houses often sell boiled water for a small fee. Using water purification tablets or a portable filter is a sustainable alternative.
Costs of Meals
As you ascend, the cost of meals increases due to the logistical challenges of transporting supplies to remote areas. A meal can cost around NPR 500-700 at lower altitudes, rising to NPR 800-1,200 at higher altitudes.
Porridge
Tibetan bread/ Chapati with Jam or Honey
Eggs
Pancakes
Muesli
Tea
Coffee
Dal Bhat
Rice, lentils & veggies
Momo
Tibetan dumplings
Thukpa
Noodle soup
Chowmein
With egg or vegetables
Fried Rice
With egg or vegetables
Spaghetti / Macaroni
With tomato sauce, cheese, vegetables
Potato Dishes
Boiled, fried, mashed, or roasted potatoes – often with cheese or garlic
Soups
Garlic (altitude remedy), tomato, vegetable, mushroom, or lentil
Pizza
Veg, cheese, or mixed (availability depends on the village)
Chocolate Bars & Cookies
Apple Pie
Popcorn
Yak Cheese
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options – Easy to find, as most meals can be made without meat
- Gluten-Free Options – Limited, but items like rice, potatoes, and dal bhat are gluten-free
- Meat Consumption – Avoid at higher altitudes, as fresh meat is rarely available and may not be safe
- Eat plenty of carbohydrates – Helps maintain energy at high altitudes
- Drink enough fluids – Dehydration worsens altitude sickness
- Try garlic soup – Believed to help with altitude adaptation
- Avoid alcohol and heavy foods – They can negatively impact acclimatization
- Temperature: Mild and pleasant, ranging from 10–20°C during the day
- Visibility: Clear mountain views in the mornings; clouds may gather in the afternoon
- Nature Highlights: Blooming rhododendrons, vibrant wildflowers, and stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes
- Crowds: Moderate traffic, less busy than autumn
- Ideal For: Nature lovers and trekkers wanting colorful landscapes with comfortable weather
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures around 15–22°C
- Visibility: Best season for crystal-clear Himalayan views
- Trail Conditions: Stable and dry – ideal for crossing Chola Pass safely
- Cultural Bonus: Dashain and Tihar festivals add cultural depth to the trek
- Crowds: Busiest season, especially in October
- Ideal For: Photographers, high-altitude trekkers, and those wanting to see the clearest peaks and lakes
- Temperature: Very cold, especially around Gokyo and the Chola Pass (sub-zero at night)
- Visibility: Often excellent due to dry air
- Trail Conditions: Snow-covered and icy; Chola Pass may be impassable due to heavy snow
- Crowds: Very low – perfect for solitude seekers
- Ideal For: Experienced trekkers seeking quiet trails, provided they skip or reroute around Chola Pass
- Weather: Rainy and humid, especially in lower sections like Lukla to Namche
- Visibility: Limited due to clouds and mist
- Trail Conditions: Muddy and slippery, with risk of landslides and flight delays
- Scenery: Rich green valleys and powerful waterfalls
- Crowds: Minimal tourist activity
- Ideal For: Very experienced trekkers okay with unpredictable weather and seeking solitude
Planning your trek during the right season is essential for an enjoyable and safe adventure. The Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek offers a range of experiences depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of each season, highlighting weather conditions, trail accessibility, and the benefits of trekking during these times:
Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek in Spring (March to May)
Weather Conditions:
- Moderate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C at lower altitudes during the day, with colder nights (-5°C to -10°C) at higher elevations.
- Clear skies and excellent visibility, especially in the mornings.
- The trails are generally dry and safe.
Benefits:
- Spring is one of the best times to trek due to blooming rhododendron forests that add vibrant colors to the landscapes.
- The moderate temperatures make long trekking days comfortable.
- Peak visibility offers stunning views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.
- Crowds are present but manageable compared to the autumn season.
Challenges:
- Availability of accommodation can become competitive, especially in popular areas like Gokyo and Namche Bazaar, so pre-booking is recommended.
Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek in Autumn (September to November)
Weather Conditions:
- Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C at lower altitudes, dropping to -10°C to -15°C at higher elevations at night.
- Skies are clear, and the post-monsoon atmosphere offers unmatched visibility.
- Dry and stable weather ensures safer trekking conditions.
Benefits:
- This season provides the clearest views of the Himalayas, making it the most popular time for trekkers.
- The trail conditions are ideal, with minimal risk of rain or snow at lower altitudes.
- Perfect for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the mountains at their best.
Challenges:
- High demand for tea house accommodations and busier trails due to the popularity of the season.
Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek in Winter (December to February)
Weather Conditions:
- Cold temperatures, with daytime highs of around 5°C at lower altitudes and nighttime lows reaching -20°C at higher points like Cho La Pass.
- Snowfall is common, particularly over the Cho La Pass, making it more challenging to cross.
Benefits:
- The trek offers peace and solitude, as fewer trekkers attempt it during this time.
- The snow-covered landscapes create a magical, serene experience for adventurous trekkers.
Challenges:
- Extremely cold temperatures require proper gear and preparation.
- Heavy snow may block the Cho La Pass, forcing itinerary adjustments.
- Limited availability of services as some tea houses close during this season.
Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek in Monsoon (June to August)
Weather Conditions:
- Frequent rainfall at lower altitudes and cloudy skies.
- Trails can be slippery and prone to landslides.
- Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes, with colder conditions higher up.
Benefits:
- The trail is less crowded, allowing trekkers to enjoy solitude and connect more deeply with nature.
- The valleys are lush and vibrant, offering a unique perspective of the region.
Challenges:
- Poor visibility and frequent rain can dampen the trekking experience.
- The Cho La Pass can become risky due to snow and wet, slippery conditions.
- Leeches may be an issue in lower-altitude regions.
Why Spring and Autumn Are Optimal for Trekking
Both spring and autumn offer the most favorable conditions for trekking, combining clear weather, manageable trail conditions, and moderate temperatures. These seasons allow trekkers to fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural experiences along the route while minimizing risks associated with weather or accessibility.
By trekking during these periods, adventurers can enjoy:
- Cultural Richness: Active tea houses and vibrant Sherpa villages, providing insights into local traditions and hospitality.
- Spectacular Views: Crisp, clear panoramas of the Himalayan giants.
- Comfortable Temperatures: Ideal for long days of walking without extreme heat or cold.
- Stable Trails: Dry and safe paths, even in challenging sections like the Cho La Pass.
Each day on the Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek is a blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, steady walking, and Sherpa hospitality. Here’s what a typical trekking day looks like.
Morning: Early Start with Mountain Views
The day begins early, usually around 6:30 AM, with a wake-up call and a warm cup of tea or coffee. After freshening up, you’ll have breakfast at the teahouse — common options include porridge, Tibetan bread, eggs, and pancakes.
Trekking starts between 7:30 and 8:00 AM. Morning trails offer the clearest mountain views, and you’ll hike for about 3 to 4 hours. Depending on the route, you may pass through pine forests, small Sherpa villages, yak pastures, or glacier valleys. Your guide sets a comfortable pace with regular breaks for water, snacks, and photos.
Midday: Lunch and Continued Trekking
Around noon, you stop for lunch at a local teahouse, usually located in a scenic spot along the trail. Meals are freshly cooked and often include dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, or momos.
After lunch, you continue trekking for another 2 to 3 hours. The afternoon hike may involve gradual ascents or more challenging terrain, such as rocky paths or glacier crossings, especially near Chola Pass. On acclimatization days in places like Gokyo or Dingboche, you’ll hike to nearby viewpoints instead of continuing on the main trail.
Afternoon: Arrival and Rest
Most days, you arrive at your destination by 2:30 to 4:00 PM. After checking in at the teahouse, you can relax with hot tea, read, or enjoy the views. If time and energy allow, short acclimatization walks or visits to local sights (like Gokyo Lakes or Everest Viewpoints) are optional.
Evening: Dinner and Briefing
Dinner is served between 6:30 and 7:30 PM. Typical meals are warm and carb-rich to help with energy and recovery. After dinner, your guide will brief you on the next day’s plan, including trail conditions, weather, and departure time.
Evenings are quiet and restful. Many trekkers spend the time journaling, chatting, or playing card games. Due to the high altitude and early mornings, most people head to bed by 8:30 or 9:00 PM.
To undertake the Everest Cho La Pass Trek, you will need to have the correct permits. These permits are essential to ensure that you can legally trek through the protected areas and local regions. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Why It’s Needed: This permit allows you to enter the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Mount Everest and other iconic peaks.
- Cost: Around NPR 3,000 per person for foreign nationals. (Prices may vary, so it’s good to confirm beforehand.)
- Where to Get It: You can purchase this permit in Kathmandu or at the Monjo checkpoint (near the trailhead).
2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Fee
- Why It’s Needed: This is a local government permit required to trek in the Khumbu region, which includes villages and the trekking trail.
- Cost: NPR 2,000 per person for foreign nationals.
- Where to Get It: This permit is available in Kathmandu or at the Lukla entry point.
Why Are Permits Important?
- These permits support the conservation of the natural environment and cultural heritage in the region.
- They ensure that the local communities benefit from tourism in their area.
- Permits also help manage the number of trekkers and maintain safety standards along the trail.
Tip: Always carry multiple copies of your permits during the trek, as they will be checked at various points along the route.
By obtaining these permits, you contribute to preserving the stunning landscapes and vibrant Sherpa culture that make the Everest Cho La Pass Trek such a remarkable experience.
The Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the more challenging treks in the Everest region. It requires a good level of fitness, determination, and preparation. Here’s what makes this trek difficult and how you can get ready for it.
1. Long Trekking Days
The trek takes about 18-20 days to complete, with daily hikes lasting 6-8 hours. On some days, like when crossing the Cho La Pass, you might hike for up to 10 hours.
Walking for so many days in a row can be tiring, so trekkers need to be physically and mentally strong.
2. High Altitude
The trek goes to very high places, like Kala Patthar (5,550 meters) and Cho La Pass (5,420 meters).
At these heights, there is less oxygen, which can cause altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and feeling tired.
To prevent this, trekkers should take rest days to acclimatize, drink lots of water, and go slow.
3. Difficult Sections
Cho La Pass: This is one of the hardest parts of the trek. It’s steep, rocky, and sometimes covered in snow or ice, making it tricky to cross.
Steep Climbs: Parts of the trek, like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, involve climbing steep trails, which require good stamina.
Rough Paths: The trail is not always smooth. You’ll walk on rocks, cross glaciers, and hike along narrow ridges.
4. Cold Weather
The weather in the mountains can change quickly. It can get very cold, especially at night, with temperatures dropping below -15°C.
In winter or early spring, snow can make the trails slippery and harder to walk on.
5. Fitness Needs
You need to be in good shape for this trek. Building stamina and strength is important.
Exercises like jogging, hiking with a backpack, and doing leg workouts (like squats and lunges) can help you get ready.
Mental strength is also important because the trek can be tiring and tough at times.
Tips to Prepare
- Train Before the Trek: Practice hiking, walking uphill, and carrying a small backpack.
- Take Rest Days: Follow the trek plan and rest to get used to the high altitude.
- Hire a Guide: A guide can help you navigate the trails and check on your health.
- Drink Water and Eat Well: Stay hydrated and eat high-energy meals to keep your strength up.
- Pack Properly: Bring warm clothes, trekking poles, sturdy boots, and other essentials.
Who Can Do This Trek?
This trek is best for people who have done some hiking or trekking before. If you are healthy, fit, and ready for a challenge, you can enjoy this amazing adventure. With preparation and determination, you’ll be able to experience the stunning beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, and Everest Base Camp.
The Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek is a challenging yet rewarding route, offering stunning views of the Gokyo Lakes, the Ngozumpa Glacier, and the iconic Everest Base Camp. However, not every trekker may feel prepared for the demanding terrain and high-altitude passes. Fortunately, there are several alternative Everest Base Camp routes to suit different preferences, fitness levels, and timeframes. Here are some popular options:
1. Classic Everest Base Camp Trek
Highlights: The classic EBC Trek is the most straightforward and popular route to reach Everest Base Camp. It starts from Lukla, passing through famous Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche before reaching the base of Mount Everest.
Why Choose This Route?: It’s less strenuous than the Gokyo Chola Pass route, making it ideal for beginners or trekkers with limited time. Plus, it allows you to experience the vibrant Sherpa culture and iconic landmarks like Tengboche Monastery.
2. Three Passes Trek
Highlights: This is the ultimate Everest trekking challenge, crossing three high-altitude passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. It also includes a visit to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes.
Why Choose This Route?: Ideal for adventure seekers, the Three Passes Trek offers unparalleled views of the Everest region. It covers nearly all the major highlights of the region, making it the most comprehensive trek.
3. Everest Base Camp via Jiri
Highlights: Starting from Jiri, this route follows the classic approach taken by early Everest expeditions. It takes you through less-traveled villages and offers a more authentic trekking experience.
Why Choose This Route?: If you want to avoid the Lukla flight and experience the charm of Nepal’s rural life, the Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek is perfect for you. It’s a great choice for trekkers who want to take their time acclimatizing.
4. Everest Panorama Trek/Everest View Trek
Highlights: The Everest Panorama Trek is a shorter and easier trek that offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks without reaching the base camp itself. It’s perfect for trekkers with limited time or those who prefer a less demanding trek.
Why Choose This Route?: This trek is perfect for families or novice trekkers who want to enjoy the beauty of the Khumbu region without committing to a strenuous journey. Key highlights include Namche Bazaar and the Tengboche Monastery.
5. Gokyo Lakes Trek
Highlights: The Gokyo Lakes Trek focuses solely on the Gokyo Valley, bypassing Everest Base Camp. This trek features serene turquoise lakes, views of Cho Oyu, and the climb to Gokyo Ri for panoramic vistas.
Why Choose This Route?: If you’re looking for a quieter, less-crowded trail with stunning scenery, the Gokyo Lakes Trek is a fantastic option. It’s less challenging than crossing the Cho La Pass but still offers incredible rewards.
6. Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return
Highlights: Combining trekking with a luxurious helicopter ride, this route allows you to trek to Everest Base Camp and then fly back to Lukla or Kathmandu. It’s a time-saving yet immersive experience.
Why Choose This Route?: This is the ideal choice for trekkers with limited time or those who want to avoid retracing their steps on the return journey. The helicopter ride also offers unmatched aerial views of the Himalayas.
Choosing the Right Route
When deciding between the Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek and its alternatives, consider your fitness level, trekking experience, available time, and personal preferences. Each route offers a unique perspective on the Everest region, from the serene Gokyo Lakes to the bustling trails of the classic EBC Trek. Whatever you choose, the Himalayas promise an unforgettable adventure.
For more guidance on planning your trek, reach out to Magical Nepal, your trusted partner for treks and tours in Nepal.
- Flights to Lukla now depart from Ramechhap Airport (5–6 hrs from Kathmandu); departures are early morning only.
- Flight delays are common due to mountain weather—add 2–3 buffer days to your international travel plan.
- Aim to fly out of Lukla on a Thursday or Friday for better helicopter rescue backup if needed.
- Helicopter flights from Lukla to Kathmandu cost around $250–$300 per person (subject to availability).
- No extra charge for solo trekkers, but you can add a single room supplement if preferred.
- Porters carry up to 20 kg total including their gear; we provide a duffle bag for your packing ease.
- Airline baggage allowance is 15 kg per person (10 kg checked + 5 kg hand); excess baggage may be refused.
- A passport copy is required at booking to secure your Lukla flight.
- All meals during the trek are included, but meals in Kathmandu are not (except breakfast).
- Hot showers and charging cost extra: $3–$5 for showers and $1–$3 for charging devices.
- WiFi is available in Lukla and Namche or via Everest Link ($25 for 10–20 GB, 30 days).
- Weather can change quickly; your guide may adjust the plan for safety—please follow their instructions.
- Drones are not allowed without a special permit—unauthorized use is strictly banned.
- Travel insurance is mandatory, and must include high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.
- Enjoy stunning views of Gokyo Lakes and the panoramic sunrise from Gokyo Ri, a highlight of this trek.
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Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek Map
