Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek – 17 Days

Trip Facts

Trip Code Everest Gokyo chola pass trek
Duration 17 Days
Max. Altitude: 5357 m
Group size 2-10+
Best Time for Visit Spring, Summer & Autumn
Meals Breakfast,Lunch , Dinner
DIFFICULTY Moderate & Strenuous
LOCATION Everest Gokyo Chola Pass
Trip Ends Kathmandu, Nepal

Introduction to Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

The  Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is one of the most thrilling adventures in the Himalayas, offering a perfect mix of sparkling lakes, high mountain passes, and breathtaking views of Mount Everest. This trek is ideal for travelers who want something more unique than the classic Everest Base Camp route. Instead of following the same trail up and down, the Trek takes you through quiet Sherpa villages, up to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and across the challenging yet exciting Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. With every step, you experience stunning glaciers, peaceful landscapes, and rich local culture.

Highlights of Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

The main attraction of this trek is the Gokyo Lakes, a series of six crystal-clear glacial lakes sitting high in the mountains. Gokyo Ri, the viewpoint above the lakes, offers a panoramic view of four of the world’s tallest peaks — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Crossing the Cho La Pass adds adventure to the journey, as trekkers walk over snow and rocky trails to reach the Khumbu Valley. From there, you can even connect the trail to Everest Base Camp if you want to extend your trip. The constantly changing scenery keeps the trek exciting and unforgettable.

Best Time and Difficulty Level Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

The best time to do the Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear and the trails are safe. This trek is considered moderately challenging, as the high altitude and steep sections require good physical fitness and proper acclimatization. Even though the Cho La Pass is tough, it is manageable with the guidance of experienced trekking leaders. With the right preparation, both first-time trekkers and experienced hikers can enjoy this adventure.

Accommodation, Permits, and Preparation

Along the trail, comfortable teahouses provide warm meals and cozy rooms, making the journey easier than camping treks. To enter the region, you need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, which are usually arranged by trekking agencies. Packing essentials include warm clothing, trekking poles, sturdy boots, and altitude medication. Hiring a professional guide ensures safety, especially during the Cho La Pass crossing when the trail can be icy or slippery.

Why Choose Always Himalaya Trek for This Adventure

Choosing a reliable trekking company is important for a safe and memorable Himalayan journey. Always Himalaya Trek offers experienced guides, flexible itineraries, comfortable accommodations, and full support throughout the trek. From handling permits to ensuring proper acclimatization, their professional team takes care of everything so you can focus on enjoying the views. Whether you are trekking solo, with friends, or in a group, Always Himalaya Trek makes your Everest Gokyo Chola Pass adventure smooth, affordable, and unforgettable.

Everest Gokyo chola pass trek 17 days

Altitude 1300
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a friendly representative from Always Himalaya Trek will warmly welcome you and transfer you directly to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel depending on your arrival time.

Altitude 2,610 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge

Early in the morning, you will take a scenic 35-minute domestic flight to Lukla, one of the most thrilling airstrips in the world. As you land amidst the towering Himalayan peaks, your trekking adventure officially begins. After meeting the rest of the trekking team, you’ll start a gentle 3-hour trek to Phakding, passing through charming Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and mani walls. The trail descends gradually, making it a pleasant first walking day. Upon reaching Phakding (2,610 m), you will settle into a cozy lodge for the night and enjoy a warm meal.

Altitude 3440 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Namche Bazaar

After breakfast in Phakding, you begin your trek along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, including the famous Hillary Bridge. The trail gradually ascends through pine forests and passes by small settlements like Monjo and Jorsalle before entering Sagarmatha National Park. The final stretch includes a long uphill climb, but the effort is rewarded as you reach Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) — the bustling Sherpa capital of the Everest region. Surrounded by stunning Himalayan views, Namche offers bakeries, gear shops, cafés, and breathtaking panoramas of Kongde Ri and Thamserku.

Altitude 3,880 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Namche Bazaar

Today is a rest and acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude. Rather than staying idle, you can take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. You may also visit the Sherpa Museum and Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center to learn about the culture and mountaineering history of the region. After exploring, return to Namche Bazaar, where you can relax in a café, enjoy freshly baked treats, or shop for local handicrafts. Proper acclimatization today will prepare you well for higher elevations ahead.

Altitude 3,860 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Tengboche or Debuche.

After breakfast, you leave Namche Bazaar and follow a scenic trail with breathtaking views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The path gradually descends to Phunki Tenga, where you cross a river and stop for lunch. From here, a steady uphill climb through pine and rhododendron forests leads you to the spiritual hub of the region — Tengboche (3,860 m), home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. You can visit the monastery and observe evening rituals performed by Buddhist monks. If the lodges in Tengboche are crowded, you may continue 15–20 minutes downhill to Debuche, which offers quieter accommodation options.

Altitude 4,410 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Dingboche

After an early breakfast, the trek continues through the Everest region’s scenic trails, crossing small rivers and passing through picturesque villages like Pangboche. The path gradually climbs, offering stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak. As you approach Dingboche (4,410 m), the landscape becomes more alpine, with fewer trees and expansive mountain vistas. Dingboche is a perfect place to rest and prepare for higher altitudes. You can explore the village and enjoy views of Nuptse and Makalu from your lodge.

Altitude 4,910 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Lobuche

After breakfast in Dingboche, you begin a gradual climb toward Lobuche (4,910 m). The trail passes through rocky landscapes, moraines, and small glaciers, offering spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Pumori, and Nuptse. Along the way, you may notice memorials dedicated to climbers who attempted Everest, adding a reflective touch to the journey. The trek to Lobuche is shorter in duration today, allowing your body to adjust to higher altitude before the more challenging days ahead.

Altitude 5,140 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Gorak Shep

Everest Base Camp Trek -14 Days

After breakfast in Lobuche, you continue trekking for about 3 hours to Gorak Shep (5,140 m), the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. Gorak Shep serves as the base for your excursion to Everest Base Camp (5,357 m). After enjoying a packed lunch at Gorak Shep, you set out on the final stretch to EBC, taking in breathtaking views of Khumbu Glacier and towering peaks along the way. After spending time at the iconic Everest Base Camp and capturing memorable photos, you return to Gorak Shep for the night. This day combines the excitement of reaching EBC with proper acclimatization and rest.

Altitude 5,550 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Dzongla

Start the day early in the morning with a climb to Kala Patthar (5,550 m), the best viewpoint in the Everest region. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, the Khumbu Glacier, and even Everest Base Camp (5,357 m) in the distance. After soaking in the incredible scenery and capturing memorable photos, you begin the descent towards Dzongla, trekking through moraine fields, alpine valleys, and rugged trails. This is a full day of both adventure and stunning natural beauty, covering approximately 8 hours of trekking.

Altitude 5,420 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Dragnag

Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

Today’s trek is the highlight of the Gokyo Chola Pass adventure. You start early and begin the challenging climb to Cho La Pass (5,420 m), crossing snow, ice, and rocky terrain. This section requires careful navigation and stamina, but the panoramic Himalayan views of peaks like Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu make the effort worthwhile. After conquering the pass, you descend toward Dragnag, a quiet village that offers stunning mountain vistas and a chance to rest after this demanding day.

Altitude 4,750 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Gokyo

Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

After breakfast in Dragnag, you continue trekking for 4–5 hours to Gokyo, a beautiful settlement nestled beside the third Gokyo Lake. The trail passes through rocky landscapes and glacial moraines, offering spectacular views of Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, and other Himalayan giants. Upon arrival, you can explore the serene Gokyo Lakes, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and prepare for the next day’s climb to Gokyo Ri, one of the best viewpoints in the region.

Altitude 5,360 m
Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Machhermo or Dole

Start your day early in the morning with a hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360 m), the highest peak in the Gokyo region. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes — a perfect photo opportunity. After soaking in the incredible scenery, return to Gokyo for breakfast, then trek down to Machhermo or Dole, passing through alpine meadows and glacial trails. This descent allows your body to rest while still enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the Khumbu region.

Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Jorsalle

After breakfast in Machhermo or Dole, you begin your descent back toward lower elevations, retracing part of the trail through the beautiful Khumbu Valley. The trek passes through lush forests, small villages, and scenic suspension bridges, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings after the challenging high-altitude days. By late afternoon, you reach Jorsalle, a small settlement near the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, where you spend the night at a comfortable lodge.

Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at lodge in Lukla.

After an early breakfast in Jorsalle, you continue your descent through the scenic Khumbu Valley toward Lukla. The trail passes through Namche Bazaar, Monjo, and Phakding, giving you a chance to enjoy the familiar landscapes and stop at teahouses along the way. This is a long but rewarding day, as you reflect on the incredible journey across high passes, glacial lakes, and Sherpa villages. Upon reaching Lukla, you settle into a comfortable lodge to rest and celebrate the completion of your trek.

Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

After breakfast in Lukla, you take a scenic 35-minute domestic flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Always Himalaya Trek will welcome you and transfer you directly to your hotel in Kathmandu. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing, shopping in Thamel, or exploring the city after your adventurous trek.

What are included in my package?

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off service, by private vehicles
  • Three nights' hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (two stars) with BB plan
  • Transportation includes flight fares for Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu or Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap Guest and Guide. If the flights are from Ramechhap to Lukla, a private car is included for both the journey to Ramechhap and the return.
  • Three meals per day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided, along with one cup of tea or coffee per meal. You can choose from the menu, but only one item per meal is allowed.
  • Seasonal fresh fruits will be provided every night after dinner
  • Accommodation will be in tea houses during the trek, with basic twin-sharing rooms
  • An experience English Speaking trained, Government license Holder Guide
  • Porter, we assign one porter for every two trekkers, a porter typically carries 20 to 25 kg
  • An extra assistant guide is provided for groups with more than 6 participants
  • All trekking permits, including Sagarmatha National Park entrance fees and Khumbu Pasanglyamu Rural Municipility entrance fees
  • taxes as per government All applicable rules and regulations
  • First Aid medical kit, Oxy-meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms)
  • Guide and porter salary, food, accommodation and insurance during the trek
  • If you need a duffel bag to pack your trekking gear, we provide one free of cost. However, it must be returned after the trip is completed
  • Farewell dinner with traditional Nepali music and cultural dance will be held at a local restaurant

What are exclude in my package?

  • Nepal entry visa fee for 30 days visa on arrival.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Extra night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and other than itinerary as well as extra trekking days
  • Travel insurance and Mountain rescue service (covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation
  • Personal nature expenses (phone, laundry, water, bar drinks, battery recharge, donations, shopping, extra porters, hot shower etc.)
  • Entrance fees for Kathmandu Valley sightseeing that cost, as well as monasteries and monuments during the trek
  • you are single of a group then Porter cost will be extra
  • Tips to Trekking staff (Tips is expected)
  • Any other expenses that aren’t mentioned in the section above
  • Note:Occasionally, flights to or from Lukla may be delayed or canceled due to bad weather, which could affect the completion of your trek on time. In such cases, a helicopter flight can be arranged as an alternative. The cost for a shared helicopter flight is $500 less or more per person one way (either Kathmandu to Lukla or Lukla to Kathmandu).

Equipment

  General

  • Puffy down jacket (We have rental jackets available for rent
  • Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (We have rental sleeping bags available form an additional cost
  • Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
  • Sleeping bag liner

  Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap
  • Knitted hat/Beanie
  • Scarf or neck gaiter
  • Headlamp
  • Sunglasses

  Torso

  • Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
  • Technical fabric short (2) and long sleeve (2) shirts
  • Waterproof, windproof shell
  • Fleece jacket or pullover

  Lower Body

  • Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
  • Hiking pants (2)
  • Comfortable pants for inside the teahouses
  • Waterproof/windproof outer shell pants
  • Hiking shorts

  Hands

  • Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
  • Hard-shell outer gloves (insulated for colder months)

  Feet

  • Wool or technical fabric warm socks
  • Hiking socks
  • Liner socks (optional such as silk)
  • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
  • Ice Cleats /Micro Spikes (For trekking from November to March, it's recommended to include Ice Cleats/ Micro Spikes to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.)
  • Casual shoes
  • Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy for snow in colder months)

  Undergarments

  • Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
  • Sports bras (women)
  • Pajamas or sleeping clothes

  Optional

  • Power bank or extra batteries
  • Cameras and mobile phone
  • Cards/book

  Peak climbing gear

  • Climbing boot
  • Crampons and harness
  • Hiking boot,slippers
  • Carabiners 4 pes (2 lock 2 onlock)
  • Ascending device jumar
  • Descending device ACT and figure of 8
  • Helmet ,ice axe and sleeping bag
  • Hiking sucks and warm wool sucks
  • Warm expedition gloves and thin treking gloves
  • Wind proof pant and jacket
  • downsuit,expedition bag 50 ltrs for more then 7000 mt
  • expedition down jacket for more then 7000 mt

Customer Reviews

Best Trekking experience in my life Oct 2025 • Friends I did the Mera Peak trek with Always Himalaya Trek and it was an amazing experience. From the start, everything felt very personal and well orgRead more

Conal higney

united kingdom

Best Trekking company   I have been on 3 treks with Sitaram; Langtang, Annapurna Circuit, and Mera Peak, all of which have been amazing. My most recent Trek was to the top of Mera Peak, the higheRead more

Gerard Melly

Ireland

We recently traveled to Nepal with “Always Himalaya Trek”, managed by Mr. Sitaram Karki, and had an amazing experience. From the warm traditional welcome at the airport to well-organized tRead more

Shamshuddin imamsaheb Kunnibhavi

India

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