Highlights
The Complete Guide to Gokyo Chola Pass Trek
Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal that offers a combination of breathtaking scenery and challenging trails. The trek is situated in the Sagarmatha National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Everest.The Trek takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Nepal, including dense forests, charming villages, and scenic valleys. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to witness some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a trek through the Dudh Kosi Valley to Namche Bazaar. The route then takes you to Tengboche, where you can visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, before continuing to Dingboche and Chukkung. The highlight of the trek is crossing the challenging Chola Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5,420 meters. Apart from its stunning natural beauty, the Chola Pass Trek is also significant for its cultural and historical significance. The trek takes you through several Sherpa villages, where you can learn about their unique culture and way of life. You can also visit several ancient monasteries and gompas, which are an important part of the region's cultural heritage.
Itinerary
DAY 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly staff and escorted to your hotel in Kathmandu. After settling in and freshening up, you can explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu on your own or simply relax and recover from your journey.
DAY 2 - Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest. Once you land in Lukla, you will meet your trekking crew and begin your journey to Phakding. The trek passes through lush forests, picturesque Sherpa villages, and the stunning Dudh Koshi River.
DAY 3 - Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Today's trek takes you through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the last resting point for trekkers heading to Mount Everest. You will cross several suspension bridges and climb steep staircases to reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling trading hub of the Khumbu region. Along the way, you will catch glimpses of the towering peaks of Thamserku and Kangtega.
DAY 4 - Acclimatization day
To prevent altitude sickness, you will spend a day in Namche Bazaar acclimatizing to the high altitude. You can explore the town, visit the local markets and bakeries, and hike up to the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.
DAY 5 - Namche Bazaar to Dole
Today's trek takes you through the picturesque villages of Khumjung and Mong, where you can visit a local school and see the famous Yeti scalp. The trail then climbs steeply to Dole, a tranquil village nestled in the mountains with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
DAY 6 - Dole to Machhermo
The trail today passes through rhododendron forests and crosses several mountain streams before reaching the village of Machhermo. Along the way, you will see several chortens and mani walls, which are sacred to the local Sherpa people.
DAY 7 - Machhermo to Gokyo (Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri)
Today, you will climb up to the stunning Gokyo Valley, surrounded by soaring peaks and glacial lakes. After settling in at your lodge, you can hike up to Gokyo Ri for a panoramic view of the Khumbu region, including Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse.
DAY 8 - Gokyo to Thagnak (Morning hike to Gokyo 4th Lake)
In the morning, you will hike up to the fourth lake of Gokyo, which is known for its stunning turquoise color. After taking in the view, you will descend to Thagnak, a small village nestled in the valley between the Gokyo and Cho La passes.
DAY 9 - Thagnak to Cho Dzongla via CholaPass
Today's trek is challenging but rewarding as you cross the high mountain pass of Cho La, at an altitude of 5,420 meters. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam and Cholatse. After crossing the pass, you will descend to the village of Cho Dzongla.."
DAY 10 - Dzongla to Lobuche
Today, you will trek through the Khumbu Glacier and ascend to the village of Lobuche. Along the way, you will see several memorials dedicated to mountaineers who lost their lives on Mount Everest, including the poignant Sherpa memorial..
DAY 11 - Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar)
Today's trek takes you to the final destination before reaching Everest Base Camp - Gorak Shep. After settling into your lodge, you can take an afternoon hike to Kala Patthar, a stunning viewpoint that offers unparalleled views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks..
DAY 12- Gorakshep to Pheriche (Morning hike to EBC)
Today is the day you have been waiting for - the trek to Everest Base Camp! After an early morning start, you will trek through the Khumbu Icefall and along the glacial moraine to reach the base camp. You will have time to explore the camp, take photos and soak in the incredible atmosphere. Afterward, you will return to Gorak Shep and then continue on to Pheriche.
DAY 13 - Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Today's trek retraces your steps back to Namche Bazaar. You will pass through several Sherpa villages and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range along the way..
DAY 14 - Namche Bazaar to Lukla
This is the final day of your trekking journey. You will pass through the villages of Monjo and Phakding before reaching Lukla. In the evening, you can celebrate the completion of your trek with your trekking crew.
DAY 15 - Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)
After breakfast, you will board a flight back to Kathmandu. Once you land, you can spend the day exploring the city, shopping for souvenirs or just relaxing at your hotel..
DAY 16 - Departure
Your amazing Everest Base Camp trek comes to an end today. Our staff will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. We hope you had an incredible journey and we look forward to seeing you again in Nepal!
TRIP ENDS HERE!
TREK GALLERY
Map
What's Included
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed & breakfast basis
AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staff.
Permits : All necessary paper works: Trekking Permit including MCAP and special permit, TIMS Card & conservation entry fee
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MAP: Trekking map of the trek
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Land Transportation Kathmandu
MEMBER LUGGAGE: Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation sharing basis in tea house/camp during the trek.
DRINKS : 2 liters of boiled water to carry on thermos per day per member.
Guide : Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sight-seeing in Kathmandu valley.
PORTER : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit.
Meals on treks only: Breakfast, Lunch , Dinner.
What's Not Included
NEPAL VISA FEES : Nepali Visa fee is US$ 60 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 120).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
RESCUE EVACUATION : Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.)
PERSONAL EXPENSES: Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facility during the trek is not included.
EXTRA PORTER : $35 USD for an extra porter per day (If an extra porter is demanded).
TIPS : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Mandatory Documents
Identification document
Booking Receipt, if Booked Online (PDF will work)
Cancellation Policy
More than 30-days prior to departure - 50% refund.
In Between 15-30-days prior to departure - 25% refund.
Less than 15-days prior to departure - No Refund.
Frequently Asked question
Absolutely! Whether you're a solo trekker or with a group, you can easily book your trek through our website or by contacting our Kathmandu office directly. We can even pair solo trekkers with groups, if desired.
On our treks, you'll enjoy a blend of traditional Nepali meals like 'dal bhat' (lentil soup with rice) and other international cuisines. We ensure our food is nutritious and energy-packed for the trekking journey. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
Yes, we offer secure luggage storage at our office in Kathmandu. You can leave behind non-essential items and pick them up once you return from your trek.
Yes, depending on your trek's region, you'll need permits like the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems) card and regional conservation or national park permits. Our team takes care of all the necessary paperwork and permits for you.
Absolutely! We offer both fixed-departure and tailor-made treks. If you have specific preferences, routes, or places you'd like to visit, just let our team know, and we'll help design a trek that meets your desires.
Altitude sickness is a concern in the Himalayan treks. Our itineraries are designed to allow gradual acclimatization. It's essential to communicate any discomfort to our guides, who are trained to assist in such situations.
Yes, Kathmandu offers several rental shops where you can rent or buy trekking gear. If you're missing something, it's likely you'll find it here. However, for personal comfort, we recommend bringing specialized items like hiking boots from home.
Accommodation varies depending on the trek's route. In popular trails like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, you'll find well-maintained teahouses offering basic amenities. However, in remote areas, the facilities might be more basic. Camping may also be part of certain trekking routes.
Our guides carry communication devices and have contacts with local agencies to ensure swift action during emergencies. In extreme cases, helicopter evacuations can be arranged, given that the trekker has suitable insurance coverage.