How difficult is the Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp?

This trek is considered challenging due to high altitude, glacier crossings, and steep ascents. It requires good physical fitness, acclimatization, and prior trekking experience is beneficial.

What permits are required for this trek?

Trekkers need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card to complete this trek.

What is the best time to do this trek?

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) due to stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant trekking conditions.

Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek - Cost & Itinerary

Transportation
Local Transportation
Group Size
Min. 2 PAX
Maximum Altitude
5550 m
Accomodation
Two-night stay at tourist standard hotels in Kathmandu with twin sharing room
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Tour type
Trekking
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with a cup of tea / coffee
Destinations
Everest, Nepal
Activities
Trekking
Difficulty
Hard

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Equipment Checklist

Fixed Departure

Map

Essential information

FAQs

Overview

Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek is an exhilarating adventure in the Everest region, offering breathtaking mountain views, diverse landscapes, and iconic trekking routes. This journey takes you through the stunning Gokyo Valley, past the mesmerizing turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and up to Gokyo Ri, where trekkers can witness panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Following the beauty of Gokyo, the Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek continues across the challenging Cho-La Pass (5,420m), which connects Gokyo to the Khumbu Valley. From there, the route leads to the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and Kala Patthar, a renowned viewpoint offering stunning sunrise views over Mount Everest.

This trek is perfect for those seeking to experience the best of the Everest region. Along the way, travelers encounter diverse landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, and a rich Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture. The route includes popular stops like Namche Bazaar, the vibrant hub of the Khumbu, and Tengboche, home to the revered Tengboche Monastery.

Crossing the Cho-La Pass presents a challenging yet rewarding experience, requiring trekkers to traverse glaciers and rocky terrain before descending toward Everest Base Camp. Cozy teahouses and lodges along the way provide warm hospitality, making the trek even more memorable.

This trek is highly recommended for adventure enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Due to the high altitude and demanding terrain, proper acclimatization, good physical fitness, and thorough preparation are essential. The journey promises breathtaking views, rich cultural encounters, and the ultimate Himalayan adventure.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal seasons for the Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer the best weather conditions and spectacular views of the Himalayas.

Spring (March to May): This season brings stable weather, mild temperatures, and longer daylight hours. The trails are vibrant with blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery, enhancing the trekking experience.
Autumn (September to November): A post-monsoon season marked by clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and breathtaking landscapes. The hills turn golden and red with autumn foliage, creating picturesque scenery.
Winter and Monsoon: Less favorable due to extreme conditions. Winter brings heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, making passes difficult to cross. Monsoon rains cause slippery trails, making trekking hazardous.

What to Expect on the Trek

The combined trek through Gokyo, Cho-La Pass, and Everest Base Camp is a thrilling adventure through the Khumbu region. The journey starts with a flight to Lukla, followed by gradual ascents through Namche Bazaar and Dole before reaching Gokyo Valley. Trekkers witness the stunning Gokyo Lakes and ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic mountain views.

The most demanding section is crossing Cho-La Pass, requiring endurance as it involves trekking on a glacier and steep rocky terrain. Descending towards Lobuche, the trail merges with the classic Everest Base Camp route.

Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, trekkers stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak, surrounded by ice formations and the Khumbu Glacier. Kala Patthar (5,545m) offers the best sunrise views of Everest. The return follows a descent through Pheriche and Namche Bazaar, eventually completing the loop in Lukla.

This high-altitude trek demands physical stamina and preparation, but the rewards include breathtaking landscapes, Sherpa culture, and some of the world’s most stunning mountain vistas.

Altitude Sickness Awareness

Rapid ascents can cause altitude sickness, with symptoms such as nausea, headaches, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate. If symptoms persist, trekkers should immediately inform their guide. To minimize risks:

Rest and acclimatize before ascending higher.
Stay hydrated.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and excessive exertion.

Accommodation and Food

Teahouses along the route offer basic accommodations with shared bathrooms. Rooms typically include a bed with a mattress, pillow, and blankets. Hot water is available at an additional charge.

Meals are hearty and diverse, including Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, Italian, and continental cuisine. Locally sourced ingredients add an authentic taste to the meals, ensuring energy for the trek.

Travel Insurance

Trekking at high altitudes involves risks, making travel insurance essential. Policies should cover:

High-altitude trekking
Medical expenses
Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue)
Trip cancellations and loss of personal belongings

Additional coverage for adventure sports may be beneficial. Always read policy details carefully before purchasing.

Required Permits

Trekkers need the following permits:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Hiring a Guide and Porter

Hiring a guide and porter enhances the trekking experience. Guides provide valuable insights into Sherpa culture, traditions, and history, while also ensuring safety on the trails. Porters ease the burden by carrying heavy backpacks, allowing trekkers to focus on the journey.

Join us to hire experienced, licensed trekking guides and porters who are knowledgeable, friendly, and insured, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Passes through diverse landscapes, including glacial moraines, dense forests, high- altitude settlements, and lush valleys
Breathtaking views of snow- capped peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Mount Everest
Opportunity to experience the unique culture of the Sherpa people and their warm hospitality
Visit Gokyo valley and its mesmerizing lakes
Crossing the Chola Pass offers stunning panoramic views of the Everest region
Witness colorful Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags along the trekking route
Experience Sherpa culture deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhists traditions
Stunning views of Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth- highest mountain
Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the Everest region, including Mt. Everest itself
Climb to the summit of Kala Pattha, a renowned viewpoint

Trip Highlights

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu Then Transfer To Hotel

On your arrival to Kathmandu from Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), the representative from us welcome you and then you shall be transferred to the categorized Hotel in
Kathmandu to which you are comfortable with.

Day 02 :

Fly to Lukla (2,840m) 30min and Trek to Phakding (2,610m) 4hrs

We will head towards Lukla early in the morning by flight. We will see the scenic fight of the Himalayan
foothills and then we will start trekking in Everest region. And after reaching Lukla we will meet
corresponding trekking staff and we will do packing and arrangement over there. We will walk 3 hours to
Phakding along the Dudh koshi river then we will start to trek to Phakding. We will spend a night in Lukla
with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 03 :

Trek to Namche Bazar (3,440 m) ~| ( 5 hrs)

We will start to trek along the banks of dudh koshi river by crossing the majestic river through suspension
bridges. After reaching the Sagarmatha National Park, we will climb slowly and observe some views of
mountains. We will finally reach to Namche Bazar which is also known as home of many quality
restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, and money exchange services. We will stay a night over there with
breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 04 :

Rest day at Namche Bazzar (3,440m)

We will spend a day in Namche Bazar in order to alleviate our tired and lethargic muscle. We will make a
short distance to the way of museum which is celebrated for exibits of traditional culture of Sherpa people.
After that we will hike up to the Syangboche Airport which lies closer to the Everest View Hotel where we
can observe the views of the Himalayas with a astonishing sunrise and sunset over the panoroma of
khumbu peaks. Namche is a colorful village which includes interesting and exhilarating shops and vendors, fabulous food, and stunning views of mountains. We will stay a night over there with breakfast,
lunch and dinner.

Day 05 :

Trek to Porche (3,810m) ~ | ( 5 hrs)

As we climb steeply out of valley passing through the rhododendron forest, we will see juniper and large
conifers according to the altitude being increased which makes the trekking very much pristine in spring
time. We will observe Khumbi La and Twache throughout the day. We will spent a night over there with
breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 06 :

Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m) ( 5 hrs)

We will ascend to the ridge to observe the perfect view down the valley to Kengtega as well as upward to
Cho Oyu and then we will climb down to a river and again climb upwards to the final moraine of the
Ngozumpz glacier. Eventually, we will reach to Machhermo by early noon. Then, we will stay a night over
there with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 07 :

Trek to Gokyo(4,790m ) ~~ | ( 5 hrs)

We will head from Machhermo to Gokyo which is one of our primary destination. We will spend 2 night for this base camp as we have a lot to do like sightseeing, hiking and trekking in Gokyo. Therefore, we will
stay a night with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 08 :

Acclimatization day at Gokyo(4,790 m)

Today we are having a acclimatization day and make up to the top of Gokyo RI (5357m). There are
stunning views of the Gokyo valley, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier and an incredible panoramic view of
the whole Khumbu mountains range like Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cholaste,
Tabuche peak and Gychung Kang.

Day 09 :

Trek to Dragnag(4700 m) (3 hrs)

We have a short trail from Gokyo to Dragnag since the next destination for us is bit difficult concerning the health. But we still have continuous views of fine mountains and nature. So we take a slow and steady
walk on this day.

Day 10 :

Crossing Chola Pass (5368m) & Trek to Dzongla (4830 m) (5 hrs)

Today is going to be a tough day, since the pass is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern
side. Our trail climbs through a narrow valley and a rocky trail, we climb up continuously from Phedi. As we gain height, the view gets increasingly captivating before us. We trek through the side of a frozen lake
while we come to the top of the Cho La pass (5368m) decorated with prayer flags. We get the sight of
famous mountains like Kyajo Ri, Tengkangpoche, Numbur, Kangchung etc. Ama Dablam presides over a
range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soar on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises
sharply to our right. After the Cho La pass, the trail descends steeply towards the Dzonglha (4,830 m)
passing through some crevasses and pine forests.

Day 11 :

Trek to Labuche(4910 m) (5 hrs)

The trail is descends and ascends gently to Labuche. The whole trip provides us with excellent views of
Ama Dablam, the Nuptse-Lhotse, Everest, Pumori, Lobuche peak etc. Lobuche is a small village situated
nearby the stream and the sunset on Nuptse is a most for sight on this day.

Day 12 :

Trek to EBC(5364m) & back to Gorekshep (5140 m) ( 8 hrs)

Today we follow the rocky moraine path and we can enjoy incredible views of Pumori, Lingtren,
Khumbutse, Nuptse, Lobuche east as well as Khumbu glacier and ice fall. Down below the Khumbu
glacier we have a short downhill walk after the last rocky moraine dunes bring us to Gorakshep. And after
having lunch at Gorakshep we head towards Everest Base Camp leaving our bag pack in lodge. The trek
trail is on glacier and snowcapped rocks. We can see many small frozen lakes around the EBC. There are
several mountains including Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse, Nuptse,etc in our sight. The most impressive
view from Everest base camp is the Khumbu icefall. And making all this beautiful day we head back to
Gorakshep for our overnight stay.

Day 13 :

Trek to Pheriche(4240m) & Kalapathar( 5,550 m) (7 hrs)

We will have a easy walk and declination to pheriche. We will observe big Monastery, large field with camp sites and tea houses, logdes. We will stay and enjoy a night there with breakfast, lunch and dinner.
.

Day 14 :

Trek to Namche(3, 440 m) ( 5 hrs)

We will trek down to Phunkethanga which is a small places of tea houses. This track leads to the downhill
from the forested path and after that we will cross the bridge along the Dudh Koshi river and incline to
climb from Sanasa to Namchebacher. We will stay a night over there with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 15 :

Trek to Lukla( 2, 840 m) ( 6 hrs)

Waking up early in the morning we will trek back to Nepal. During our trek we will enjoy Fascinating
scenario of mountains and the Local Sherpa village. Then after that we will reach back to Lukla where we
will take some rest and relax and also get some time to celebrate our journey. This trek will be a strong
memories for a life time.

Day 16 :

Fly back to Kathmandu ( 30 min )

Now, finally we will flight back to Kathmandu and then we will reach Kathmandu.

Day 17 :

Last Final Day Departure back to home

On this day, you shall be transferred to the International Airport at least 3 hours before your flight for the
onward destination by a representative of Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours.

Equipment Checklist

Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful and comfortable Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp. Below is a detailed checklist to help you prepare.

1. Clothing
✅ Base Layers:
Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms (2-3 sets)
✅ Insulation Layers:
Fleece or down jacket (lightweight but warm)
Insulated trekking pants
✅ Outer Shell Layers:
Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex recommended)
Waterproof trekking pants
✅ Trekking Clothes:
Lightweight trekking shirts (long & short-sleeved)
Convertible trekking pants
Fleece or wool gloves
Warm hat/beanie
Buff or neck gaiter (for dust and wind)
✅ For Cho-La Pass & Cold Weather:
Heavy down jacket (-10°C to -20°C rating)
Thermal gloves
Gaiters (for snow and ice)

2. Footwear
✅ Trekking Boots: Waterproof, ankle-supporting, and well broken-in
✅ Camp Shoes/Sandals: For resting in teahouses
✅ Thick Wool Socks (3-4 pairs): For warmth
✅ Lightweight Trekking Socks (3-4 pairs): For daily use

3. Sleeping Gear
✅ Sleeping Bag: (-10°C to -20°C recommended)
✅ Sleeping Bag Liner: For extra warmth and hygiene

4. Backpacks & Bags
✅ Main Backpack (50-70L): For carrying essentials (if not hiring a porter)
✅ Daypack (20-30L): For daily items (camera, snacks, water)
✅ Duffel Bag: If using a porter (provided by some trekking agencies)
✅ Rain Cover: For backpack protection

5. Trekking Gear
✅ Trekking Poles: Essential for balance, especially on Cho-La Pass
✅ Sunglasses: UV protection (for high-altitude glare)
✅ Headlamp + Extra Batteries: For early morning treks
✅ Water Bottles (2L capacity): OR hydration bladder
✅ Water Purification Tablets/Filter: To purify tap or stream water

6. Personal Items & Toiletries
✅ Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
✅ Lip Balm (SPF protection)
✅ Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer
✅ Toilet Paper (carry your own supply)
✅ Quick-dry Towel
✅ Basic Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap

7. First Aid & Medications
✅ Personal Medications
✅ Altitude Sickness Pills (Diamox)
✅ Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol)
✅ Band-aids, Blister Plasters
✅ Anti-Diarrhea Tablets & Electrolytes
✅ Motion Sickness Pills (for Lukla flight)

8. Electronics & Gadgets
✅ Phone & Charger
✅ Power Bank (solar recommended)
✅ Camera & Extra Batteries
✅ Earplugs (for noisy teahouses)

9. Snacks & Energy Boosters
✅ Energy Bars/Nuts/Chocolates
✅ Electrolyte Powder
✅ Instant Coffee/Tea Bags

10. Important Documents
✅ Passport & Copies
✅ Trekking Permits (Sagarmatha National Park & TIMS Card)
✅ Travel Insurance Details (must cover high-altitude trekking)
✅ Cash (Nepali Rupees for teahouses, as ATMs are limited)

Final Tips
✔️ Pack Light – Porters have a weight limit (usually 15-20kg).
✔️ Layering is Key – Helps adjust to changing temperatures.
✔️ Break-in Your Boots – Avoid blisters by wearing them before the trek.
✔️ Waterproof Everything – Use dry bags to protect gear.

Essential information

Before embarking on the Gokyo Cho-La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp, it is crucial to be well-prepared. Below is key information to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

1. Trek Duration & Itinerary
📅 Duration: 17-20 days (depending on acclimatization days and pace)
📍 Major Stops: Lukla – Namche Bazaar – Dole – Gokyo – Cho-La Pass – Everest Base Camp – Kala Patthar – Pheriche – Lukla

2. Best Time for Trekking
The ideal seasons for this trek are:
✔️ Spring (March – May): Clear weather, blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures
✔️ Autumn (September – November): Stable weather, best mountain views, comfortable trekking conditions
🚫 Less Favorable Seasons:
❄️ Winter (December – February): Heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, closed high passes
🌧 Monsoon (June – August): Rainy, slippery trails, limited visibility

3. Trek Difficulty & Physical Fitness
⛰ Difficulty Level: Challenging
🏃 Fitness Requirement: Good physical condition and endurance are needed. Regular cardio, hiking, and strength training before the trek are recommended.
Key Challenges:
✔️ High altitude (Max: 5,545m at Kala Patthar)
✔️ Steep ascents & descents
✔️ Glacier and rocky terrain at Cho-La Pass
✔️ Unpredictable weather

4. Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
🆘 Symptoms: Headache, dizziness, nausea, difficulty breathing
🛑 Prevention:
Ascend gradually with proper acclimatization days
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol
Inform your guide at the first signs of altitude sickness

5. Required Permits
📜 To trek in the Everest region, you need:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Monjo (near Namche Bazaar).

6. Accommodation & Meals
🏠 Accommodation: Teahouses/lodges with basic rooms (shared bathrooms)
🍲 Food: Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and continental meals available
💧 Water: Safe drinking water is available at teahouses (boiled or filtered)

7. Packing List
🎒 Essential Gear:
Trekking boots (well broken-in)
Warm clothing (thermal layers, down jacket)
Sleeping bag (-10°C recommended)
Gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Trekking poles & gaiters (for Cho-La Pass)
First aid kit & altitude sickness medication

8. Travel Insurance
✅ Mandatory: Insurance must cover:
High-altitude trekking (above 5,000m)
Emergency helicopter evacuation
Medical expenses & trip cancellation

9. Guide & Porter Services
👨‍💼 Hiring a Guide & Porter: Highly recommended for safety and convenience
Guide: Provides navigation, cultural insights, and first-aid support
Porter: Carries luggage (limit: 15-20kg), allowing you to trek comfortably

10. Fixed Departure & Booking
🗓 Join a Fixed Departure: Select a pre-scheduled trek date to join a group.
📩 Booking: Contact us in advance for availability and trip customization.

Festival	Date (2026)
Losar (Tibetan New Year)	18 February
Maha Shivaratri	15 February
Holi (Fagu Purnima)	3 March (Hilly Region), 4 March (Terai)
Ghode Jatra	18 March
Bisket Jatra (Nepali New Year)	13–17 April
Rato Machhendranath Jatra	18–20 April
Buddha Jayanti	1 May
Tiji Festival (Upper Mustang)	14–16 May
Gai Jatra	29 August
Indra Jatra	25–29 September
Dashain	11–25 October
Tihar (Deepawali)	8–12 November
Chhath	15 November
Mani Rimdu Festival	28–30 October

Sushan T

20:16 12 Dec 24

So many amazing experiences we would have never had without these guys! So grateful and can't wait to use their services again!!!

Pedro Alfaro

11:52 03 Nov 24

Pamfa did an incredible job organizing our trip. Her communication before the trip was excellent, helping us set up our dream itinerary with ease. She was attentive to our needs and ensured every detail was perfect. And she was very welcoming in Kathmandu, sending her son to pick us up in the airport and coming the first day to make sure everything was alright, we had all the needed papers, and we understood them! Thanks to Pamfa, we had an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!

Girish Lakshmana

12:10 20 Oct 24

We had very nice time in Nepal and Agent from Lengtang take care of us all very professional too..

mamat seking

05:41 20 Oct 24

Its an awesome experience and thank you for having an awesome guide and also accomodation!

ALPESH SHAH

11:31 15 Oct 24

Great experience with Langtang RI trekking and Expedition in Nepal. Pamfa (Local Tour operator) and her team was awesome. They all planned and organized everything so well to provide our group amazing experience, support and guidance throughout our time in Nepal. Thank you!!!

Gokyo Cho-la Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Equipment Checklist

Fixed Departure

Map

Essential information

FAQs