Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek via Chola-Pass

Key Information
  • Duration18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max Altitude 5550m
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu-Kathmandu
  • Best Season Autumn season (mid September to mid December) Spring season (March-May

Trip Overview

The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Valley trek via the iconic Chola Pass is one of the most exciting and challenging treks in the world. This trek offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most spectacular regions on Earth. You will trek through breathtaking landscapes, remote Sherpa villages, and Buddhist monasteries and offer unparalleled views of some of the world’s highest peaks. It has a perfect blend of nature, culture and adventure, offering trekkers the opportunity to explore the Khumbu region, one of Nepal’s most famous trekking destinations, and witness the world’s highest Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Whether you are an experienced trekker or an adventure seeker, this journey will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring Sherpa Villages and Culture

As you reach Lukla, you will begin a trek through charming Sherpa villages where you will experience the fascinating Sherpa culture. Known for their incredible endurance and climbing skills, the Sherpa people are key to all the successful expeditions. Their warm hospitality and rich Buddhist traditions are integral to this trek. The trek passing through Sherpa villages offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the Sherpas.

The town of Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region, is one of the most important stops on the trek. Namche used to be a trading hub where locals still gather for the weekly market on Fridays and Saturdays but also offers a variety of accommodation options, from basic teahouses to luxury lodges. It’s the perfect place to rest and explore local villages and shops for trekking gear. While in Namche, you can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and gain insight into the region’s history and the role of Sherpas during the Everest expeditions.

Monasteries and Suspension Bridges

The trek continues by passing through numerous Buddhist stupas and monasteries, including the largest Tengboche Monastery in the region. This serene and spiritual place offers a vibrant religious experience. Fluttering prayer flags in the wind and the sound of monks chanting make it even more peaceful. While you walk through stupas or monasteries, you need to go clockwise, signifying a path towards enlightenment. You will also cross numerous thrilling suspension bridges as you make your way through the valleys, adding an element of excitement and adventure to the trek.

Reaching Everest Base Camp: 5364m

The ultimate destination for many trekkers is Everest Base Camp. At an elevation of 5364 meters (17,598 feet), it is the base for climbers attempting to summit the world’s tallest mountain. Standing at the foot of Mount Everest is a truly humbling experience. The immense size of the surrounding peaks, combined with the sheer beauty and isolation of the place, makes this a major highlight of the trek.

In addition to Everest, you will have spectacular views of other towering peaks such as Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8485m), and Cho-Oyu (8201m), and stunning Amadablam (6812m). From here, you can also make the short, yet rewarding hike to Kala Patthar (5555m), a viewpoint offering some of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.

Challenging Chola Pass: 5420m

The real adventure begins as you continue from Everest Base Camp towards Gokyo. To reach Gokyo Valley, you must first cross the Chola Pass at an elevation of 5420 meters (17,780 feet). Pass is the most challenging part of the trek, but it is the most thrilling. The path is rugged, with steep ascents, descents and snow-covered sections where you need crampons, but the rewarding summit is a feeling of accomplishment that can't be compared.

Serene Gokyo Valley

After crossing the Chola Pass, you descend into the tranquil and beautiful Gokyo Valley, home to the famous Gokyo Lakes situated at an elevation of 4750 m. The pristine blue waters of these glacial lakes reflect the surrounding peaks, creating one of the most picturesque scenes in the Himalayas. Gokyo is a haven of peace and natural beauty, and it offers an excellent opportunity to rest and enjoy stunning sunset or sunrise views from Gokyo Ri.

At Gokyo Ri (5320m), a short but steep climb from the village, you will be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views in the Everest region. The view from Gokyo Ri includes a panoramic vista of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Ngazumpa Glacier. On a clear day, the sight of these towering giants is simply awe-inspiring. Gokyo offers basic to luxury accommodation facilities with various choices of meal options.

How we organise your trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our team will be waiting to pick you up. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle for a smooth and comfortable journey. In the evening, we will arrange a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you will have the chance to meet your fellow trekkers, your guide, and the team. During this dinner, we will brief you about the entire trek, including important details and tips for the journey ahead.

Preparation Day in Kathmandu

You will have one day in Kathmandu for preparation. On this day, you can finalise your trekking gear, pick up any missing equipment, and complete any last-minute shopping. Additionally, you can take a short city tour to explore the fascinating Nepali culture. We will take you to Kathmandu Durbar Square and Syambhunath (Monkey Temple).

Flight to Lukla

From Kathmandu, your adventure begins with a thrilling 30-minute flight to Lukla. Mostly flights go from Manthali Airport, so we will drive you to Manthali Airport to catch a short 15-minute flight to Lukla. The flight is one of the most exciting experiences of the trek, offering magnificent views of the Himalayas.

We provide you a professional guide.

Your trek will be guided by one of our professional, government-licensed guides, ensuring you’re in safe hands throughout the journey. These guides have extensive experience and knowledge of the region, the culture, and the challenges of the trek, and they’ll make sure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Porter Assistance

Upon arrival in Lukla, you will meet your porter, who will assist in carrying your heavy bag during the trek. This allows you to focus on enjoying the trek without worrying about the weight of your gear. The porter will help ensure your trek is as smooth and successful as possible.

Meals During the Trek

Throughout the trek, you will be provided with three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our meals are designed to meet the nutritional needs of trekkers, providing energy for the long days of hiking. You can also enjoy a variety of drinks such as tea, coffee, and other hot beverages. We make sure to cater to your dietary preferences and needs, ensuring you're satisfied with the food and drinks offered on the trek.

Accommodation

We provide comfortable accommodation along the route with a focus on convenience and practicality. Our packages include medium-range accommodation, where you will have private rooms with attached toilets (though showers are not included). Should you want to take a shower, you can do so at an additional cost at most teahouses. Accommodation standards will vary depending on the location, but we ensure that your stay is comfortable and suitable to rest after a long day of trekking.

A Safe and Enjoyable Experience

You are in safe hands. Throughout the trek, we ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Our professional team is there to guide and assist you every step of the way, providing you with expert knowledge of the terrain, local culture, and safety protocols. Don't hesitate to contact and trek with us. 

Itinerary

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This is our regular itineray, if you would like to customize as your time and budget feel free to contact us.

Upon arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, we will greet you with marigold flowers and transfer you to the hotel by private vehicle. Your hotel will be located in Thamel. We will arrange a trip departure meeting with your guide, including a welcome dinner or lunch, where you will be informed about the entire programme.

Today is your preparation day! If you need to buy or rent any trekking equipment, you will have time to arrange. During the morning time we will take you on a short city tour. You will visit the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square and the iconic Syambhunath Stupa, known as the Monkey Temple; both are easily accessible by a short walk.

You will depart early in the morning for Manthali airport to catch your flight to Lukla, which will take approximately 4 hours. From Manthali you will take a short 15-minute flight to Lukla and start your trek. You will trek to Phakding for 3: 30 hours through the Sherpa villages where you will have an opportunity to experience their culture and life style. You will cross several wooden and suspension bridges, offering stunning landscape and surrounding mountains. When you reach at Phakding you will check in at the local guest house then you will some time to explore around the village.

The trek will start after breakfast to Namche Bazaar; it will take around 6-7 hours. You will trek alongside the Dudh Kosi River, crossing thrilling suspension bridges that offer incredible views. The landscape will amaze you with lush forests, picturesque villages and towering mountains, including Mount Everest, visible from Toop Danda.

Your first stop will be in Manjo, which is about 3-4 hours of walking from Phakding. Manjo is the entrance gate to the Sagarmatha National Park, where your guide will buy an entrance ticket, and then after a short 10-minute walk, you will reach Jorsalle, where you will stop for lunch. After lunch you will continue to your destination, Namche Bazar, the gateway to the Everest region.

Today is our acclimatization and rest day in Namche Bazar, so we’ll keep the trek light and easy. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a short hike to the Everest Viewpoint, located at 3,820 meters. The trek takes about 2-3 hours and rewards you with iconic panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest. From there, we’ll continue to the peaceful Khumjung Village, where you can explore the village, visit the monastery, and enjoy a traditional lunch. Afterward, we’ll trek back to Namche Bazar. Namche is a great place to pick up any last-minute trekking gear, and you’ll have some free time to explore the local shops and surroundings. Enjoy a relaxing evening before preparing for the next leg of our journey. We’ll stay overnight in Namche Bazar.

After a hearty breakfast in Namche Bazar, you'll begin your trek with a steep 15-minute climb uphill to Chorgem. From there, the trail levels off, offering a relatively easy, gradual walk on well-maintained paths towards Kyangjuma. As you continue, the trail starts to descend through a beautiful pine forest for about 40 minutes, bringing you to Phunge Tenga, a common lunch stop.

After a rest, the most challenging part of your trek begins. You'll embark on a 2-hour uphill climb through rhododendron forests, gaining altitude steadily as you make your way towards Tengboche. Along the way, stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest and Ama Dablam, will keep you motivated. Finally, you'll arrive at Tengboche Monastery, where you can relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Today, your journey begins with the peaceful sound of monk chanting at the Tengboche Monastery, just a short walk from your hotel. After a hearty breakfast, you'll set off on a trek that, while not too physically demanding in terms of terrain, will challenge you due to the thin air at higher altitudes. It's important to stay hydrated and take regular breaks as you go.

The trail first leads you through a beautiful rhododendron forest, as you descend toward Debuche. After about 45 minutes, you will cross a thrilling suspension bridge that spans a rushing river. From there, the path gently climbs toward Pangboche village. This is the perfect spot for a short tea break, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Mount Ama Dablam (6812m).

Continuing on, you'll move above the tree line and enter more open terrain, with expansive mountain vistas. Lunch awaits you at Somare, before continuing the trek for another 2-3 hours, arriving in Dingboche village. Nestled at 4410m, Dingboche offers several comfortable lodging options, and its local villagers grow potatoes and other vegetables in this high-altitude paradise. A peaceful night awaits you here in this scenic village.

Today is your acclimatisation day, so you will climb at least 300 metres above Dingboche village. There is a beautiful hike towards Ngarchang viewpoint, which is standing at an elevation of 5080 m. Most of the trekkers hike all the way to the top, and some at least hike up to half. After the hike, you will be back to the hotel for your lunch. After lunch you will have some time to explore the village and chill at the cafe for brewed coffee, cake and free battery charging and free Wi-Fi.

 

The trek from Dingboche to Lobuche begins after a hearty breakfast, with an easy and gradual walk through yak pastures. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional yak herders’ huts, providing a glimpse into local life. After about three hours of trekking, you will reach Thukla, where you’ll stop for lunch.

After lunch, the journey takes a more challenging turn as you climb steeply up to the Thukla Pass, which will take roughly an hour. The ascent is rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Once at the top, the trail becomes easier again, with a gentle, gradual ascend toward Lobuche. This part of the trek offers serene landscapes, perfect for reflecting on the day's adventure. You’ll arrive in Lobuche in the afternoon, where you'll spend the night, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.

Today is an exciting and memorable day as you head towards your final destination – Everest Base Camp! You will begin your trek a bit earlier than usual to make the most of the day. After a hearty breakfast, your journey starts with a gradual, flat walk for about an hour. Soon, you'll begin ascending, navigating rocky terrain and crossing glaciers. The high altitude and thin air will make the trek challenging, but the reward will be worth every step.

After approximately 3 hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Gorak Shep, where you’ll check in at your lodge and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Following lunch, you’ll embark on a short, 2-hour hike to Everest Base Camp itself. The final stretch will take you through some stunning landscapes, and upon reaching EBC, you can take in the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, snap some photos, and truly immerse yourself in the achievement of reaching this iconic destination.

After spending some time at EBC, you’ll descend back to Gorak Shep, where you’ll spend the night, reflecting on the incredible experience of reaching Everest Base Camp.

Today’s adventure begins early with a pre-dawn hike to Kalapathar. Departing from Goreksep, you’ll ascend for 2-3 hours, gaining an elevation of 400 meters. Kalapathar is one of the highlights of the entire trek, offering breathtaking panoramic views, including the iconic Mount Everest and several other towering peaks. It’s a truly unforgettable moment as the sun rises over these majestic mountains.

After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to your hotel for breakfast. Post-meal, you’ll begin your trek to Zongla, which takes about 5 hours. The trail offers scenic landscapes and stunning towering mountains. Once you reach Zongla, you’ll rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before an overnight stay.

Today, you will begin your journey early in the morning, around 3-4 AM, with headlamps lighting your path. Due to the long-distance trek, you'll carry a packed lunch for the day. The trail starts with a gradual, flat path for about an hour, then start climbing to the iconic Chola Pass (5420m).

The pass often requires crampons due to the snow-covered and icy terrain. The climbing duration will take about 3-4 hours to the Chola Pass. Once at the summit, you'll enjoy stunning views before beginning a steep descent approximately 1 hour to the buttom.

After reaching the bottom, the trail gradually ascends for another 45 minutes, then finally descend to Dragnang. This challenging yet rewarding trek offers unforgettable alpine landscapes and a true sense of adventure as you cross one of the Everest region’s most famous high passes.

Today’s trek is short and scenic, taking you from Dragnag to Gokyo Lake. You will begin by crossing the Ngozompa Glacier, which offers stunning views and a unique landscape. The trek will take approximately 2 to 3 hours, and you'll reach at Gokyo Lake directly to lunch. After enjoying a delicious meal, take some time to relax and unwind by the serene waters of the lake, surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayan peaks. It’s the perfect moment to reflect and appreciate the peaceful beauty of this iconic destination.

Today, you will begin your adventure with an early morning hike to Gokyo-Ri, using your headlamp to reach the summit for a stunning sunrise and breathtaking panoramic views. Gokyo-Ri offers the best vantage point to admire the surrounding peaks, it is located at an elevation of 5350m which is 600 meters higher than Gokyo Lake. After soaking in the views, you will return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. Later, you will begin your descent to Dole. The trail is mostly downhill, making the journey relatively easy, with a stop for lunch at Machhermo before continuing onward to Dole.

Embark on a scenic trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar, filled with lush forests, steep ascents, and beautiful mountain views. Begin your journey with a 1-hour descent to Phorche Tenga, where you’ll walk through dense rhododendron and pine forests—keep an eye out for the elusive musk deer. Afterward, prepare for a challenging 1.5-hour climb up to Mong Danda, offering stunning views. From Mong Danda, descend gently for about an hour to reach Kyangjuma. The final stretch is a relatively easy, flat trail that leads you back to the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar.

Today marks the final day of your trek, a relatively easy yet long journey from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. You'll walk through breathtaking landscapes, crossing several iconic suspension bridges along the way. After a scenic trek, you'll stop at Phakding for a well-deserved lunch break before continuing your journey towards Lukla. Upon reaching Lukla, you’ll celebrate the successful completion of your trek, reflecting on the adventure and the unforgettable memories made along the way.

Today, you will fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali, depending on your flight ticket and the season. If you’re flying directly to Kathmandu, you’ll arrive at the airport and be transferred back to your hotel, where you can relax for the rest of the day. However, if your flight is to Manthali, you will need to drive back to Kathmandu, and we will arrange a private vehicle for your 4-hour journey. Either way, you’ll have time to unwind and reflect on your amazing adventure.

Today is your contingency day. Sometimes, flights from Lukla to Kathmandu can be delayed due to weather conditions. This extra time ensures you won't miss your international flight. If your flight arrives on schedule, we'll make the most of your time by showing you around Kathmandu's vibrant city. Explore the historic temples, bustling markets, and rich culture before your departure. Whether delayed or on time, we'll ensure your trip ends smoothly and stress-free.

One of our office staff will transfer you to airport for your smooth fly back home.

Cost Details

Includes
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • Three-3 Nights Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu in 4-star category hotel on BB plan.
  • Two-way domestic flight. Kathmandu-Lukla and Lukla-Kathmandu.
  • Trekking Guide & Porter with full salary and insurance.
  • Three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will be given a menu, and you can choose any food you want.
  • Tea, coffee, and treated drinking water. 
  • Accommodation during the trek in a local guest house. 
  • Duffle bag.
  • T-shirt 
  • All the necessary trekking permits.
  • First aid/medical kit. 

 

Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fees.
  • International flight.
  • Personal trekking equipment or trekking gear.
  • Food & Drinks during the stay in Kathmandu or in case of early return from trekking.
  • Extra night Accommodation in Kathmandu or in case of early return from trekking.
  • Insurance: Travel & high altitude insurance for any accident, emergency helicopter evacuation or hospital medication.
  • Hard drinks, Soft drinks, bottle of hot water and mineral water.
  • Internet service and Mobile battery charging.
  • Any other service or activities which are not mention.
  • Tips: Tips for Guide & porter.
Price Per PersonUS$1800US$2000
Why book with us
  • We’re government-registered.
  • Trusted local travel experts.
  • We guarantee a hassle-free experience.
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