Everest Chola Pass Trek - 18 days

5/5 from Based on 1 reviews

DestinationNepal
Durations18 days
Trip DifficultyEasy to Moderate
ActivitiesTrekking
Group Size15+

Trip Highlights

Stunning views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
Crossing the challenging Chola Pass at 5,420 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Visit the iconic Everest Base Camp, a must-see for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Explore the pristine Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise lakes nestled amidst snow-capped peaks.
Experience the unique Sherpa culture and hospitality in villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
Thrilling trekking experience through diverse landscapes, including alpine forests, glacial moraines, and high passes.

Everest Chola Pass Trek Overview

The Everest Chola Pass Trek is a thrilling and adventurous 18 days journey that takes you to the famous Everest Base Camp and crosses Chola Pass at an altitude of (5,420 m /17,780 ft).

Chola Pass stands as one of Nepal's renowned mountain crossings, linking Everest to the Gokyo Valley. Travelers will traverse through two of Nepal's most popular trekking destinations: the enchanting Gokyo Valley and the iconic Everest Base Camp.

The Everest Cho La Pass Trek injects an extra dose of adventure into the classic Everest Base Camp hike by guiding you across the formidable Cho La Pass in the Khumbu region.

Tailored for adventurers eager to elevate their Himalayan experience, the trek offers a gradual ascent to greater heights. You will encounter breathtaking landscapes as you conquer one of the region's most demanding passes.

This is a challenging yet very rewarding trek, which is not only thrilling but will also give you a personal sense of reward as you complete this high pass trek. The journey starts with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Over the next few days, starting with a scenic flight to Lukla, you will traverse around various Sherpa villages, like Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gokyo Ri, Dole and more.

This trek is not only an adventure but also an opportunity to explore the authentic Himalayan lifestyle of Nepal. From tasting the local delicacies to exploring various monasteries and interacting with the locals, the trek has it all.

So, brace yourself for a journey of a lifetime that will not only challenge you physically but will also leave you with personal rewards and a sense of accomplishment. Wait no further and book the enticing Himalayan journey now.

What to Expect from a 18 Days Everest Cho La Pass Trek?

The Everest Cho La Pass Trek transcends mere adventure, offering a lifetime journey through a tapestry of captivating landscapes. From majestic snow-capped peaks to rushing streams and pristine lakes, from dense forests to picturesque villages steeped in rich culture, every step unveils a new wonder.

Enchanting sights of Rhododendron, Magnolia, and towering fir forests adorn the trekking route, while the Gokyo Valley enchants with its enriching vistas.

Traversing from west to east, the trek reveals panoramic views of iconic peaks like Cho Oyu, Gyanchung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Crossing the challenging Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters, with Gokyo Lake and Everest Base Camp in sight, proves demanding yet immensely rewarding.

Delve into the land of the Sherpa, encountering glimpses of rare wildlife such as Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and the elusive snow leopard.

Legends of the Yeti add an air of mystique, and a chance to witness its purported presence through artifacts like the Yeti's head, housed in a monastery at Khumjung village, is a captivating detour amidst the trek.

Crossing the Great Chola Pass During the Journey

Located in the center of Nepal's Khumbu area, Chola Pass is a formidable entry point between the Gokyo and Everest valleys. This high mountain pass, which is 5,420 meters (17,782 feet) above sea level, is a tribute to the magnificence of nature and a challenge that mountaineers and hikers alike enthusiastically embrace.

Traveling to Chola Pass is an exhilarating adventure via some of the most stunning scenery. Hikers set out on a rocky trail that passes through lush forests, over frozen rivers, and up among the mountains. The temperature decreases and the air thins along the journey, acting as a continual reminder of how harsh the altitude can be.

The scenery changes into a bizarre scene of glacier valleys and snow-capped summits as climbers travel higher. Famous Himalayan peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu dominate the horizon, providing breathtaking vistas. Trekkers are rewarded with a sense of achievement and expansive views that extend forever at the pass itself.

But passing across Chola Pass is no easy task. Even seasoned hikers will find the high altitude, erratic weather, and hazardous terrain to be significant obstacles. Its rugged paths and ice slopes need careful acclimatization, mental toughness, and physical stamina to traverse safely.

Mountain Viewed During Everest Chola Pass Trekking Journey

Mount Everest, which stands at 29,029 feet (8,848 meters) high, is the tallest peak in the world and looms majestically over the horizon. Trekkers frequently get their first glimpses of Everest from several viewpoints, with Kala Patthar offering the most breathtaking views.

The fourth-highest peak in the world, Lhotse (8,516 meters / 27,940 feet), is next to Everest and provides breathtaking views from many locations along the route, such as Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp.

Another notable mountain in the Everest region is Nuptse (7,861 meters / 25,791 feet), which is well-known for its striking ridges and near proximity to Everest. Hikers may take in expansive vistas of Nuptse from a number of points, most notably Kala Patthar.

Cho Oyu (8,188 meters / 26,864 feet) is the sixth-highest peak in the world and can be seen from several viewpoints along the hiking route, especially from the Renjo La Pass and throughout the ascent to Gokyo Ri.

Ama Dablam is known for its incredibly beautiful and unusually formed summit (6,812 meters / 22,349 ft). Trekkers may enjoy views of this famous peak from several locations along the trail, especially from Pangboche and Tengboche.

Best Time for Trekking to Chola Pass of Everest

The best season for you to do the high pass Chola Pass Trek is during spring, which lasts from March to May and autumn, which lasts from September to November. Below are some reasons why this is considered an ideal time to do the Chola Pass Trek.

Spring Season (March, April and May)

Trekking is best done in the spring, when the weather is pleasant and the sky is clear.
The weather is mostly consistent, with little rain and great visibility for views of the mountains.
Because this is a popular trekking season, there may be crowds on the trails and at the teahouses.
Daytime highs and lows range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), yet as you rise, it may get colder.
At lower elevations, nighttime temperatures range from 0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F), falling below freezing at higher elevations.

Autumn Season (September, October and November)

With steady weather and open skies, autumn is an excellent time of year to go to Chola Pass.
Trekking is made more comfortable by the moderate temperatures, which are neither too hot nor too cold.
The nearby Himalayan peaks are breathtakingly visible due to the often clear skies.
Trekkers love this time of year as well, although there aren't as many people as there are in the spring.
Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at lower altitudes, making walking bearable.
At lower elevations, nighttime temperatures range from 0°C to -5°C (32°F to 23°F), with a further decrease at higher elevations.

Detail Itinerary

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Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to the Hotel (1,400 m/4,600 feet)

Upon your flight's arrival and your subsequent arrival at the gate, one of our team members will be there to greet you. Following that, you'll be escorted to your hotel, where you'll receive a briefing about your trip and itinerary on the very same day of your arrival.

If you arrive early and after the pre briefing you can explore the bustling city of Kathmandu. You can either try the local food, explore well known places or simply go last minute shopping before the trek.

Day 02

Trek Preparations and Sightseeing in Kathmandu

After an early morning breakfast, we will set off to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu, rich in culture and traditions. Throughout the day, we will visit various cultural heritage sites, offering insights into the city's history, culture, and people. Our itinerary includes exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, and more. In the evening, after sightseeing, you will have plenty of time to prepare for your trek, including any last-minute shopping you may need to do.

Day 03

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding ( 2,610 m/8,560 ft, 3 hours)

Day 04

Trek to Namche Bazar ( 3,440 m/11,290 ft, 6 hours )

We trace the path alongside the Dudh Kosi River, ascending through dense Himalayan pine and Doedar cedar forests, until we reach the renowned village of Namche Bazaar. Namche holds a storied past as a bustling trading hub, where Nepalese and Tibetan traders barter salt, dried meat, and textiles.

Beyond its reputation as a haven for traditional crafts, Namche stands as the primary trading center in the Khumbu region, drawing merchants from both the Himalayas and lowlands. Here, we allocate two days for acclimatization, exploring local markets, and bonding with our team. It's during this time that we catch our initial glimpses of Everest and the neighboring peaks, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.

Day 05

Acclimatization Day / Hike to Hotel Everest View (3960 m/12,992 ft, 3 hours)

Today is dedicated to acclimatization, as we trek to Syangboche Airport (3700m), renowned as one of the highest airports globally.

From there, we ascend further to Everest View Hotel, offering stunning panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Tawache, and more.

En route back, we visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural heritage and captivating imagery of the Everest region.

Day 06

Trek to Tengboche (3,867 m/12,687 ft, 5 hours)

The trail begins with a gentle and level path, offering glimpses of majestic Mt. Everest before descending into the depths of the Dudh Kosi Valley at Pungki Thanka.

From there, it ascends along the right flank of the Dudh Kosi valley, leading to the revered Tengboche Monastery (3860m).

As the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region, the monastery's ascent is challenging but immensely rewarding. Along the way, trekkers are treated to captivating views of Mt. Ama Dablam, and on clear days, the majestic sight of Mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks adds to the awe-inspiring scenery.

Day 07

Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m/14,470 ft, 5 hours)

Descending through a mesmerizing forest, you'll traverse the tranquil Imja Khola and traverse the picturesque village of Pangboche, nestled at 3,900 meters.

Today promises to be the pinnacle of your trekking experience, as you maintain your elevation and bask in the breathtaking panoramas of Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse, and other awe-inspiring peaks.

Your path winds through verdant pastures as you approach Dingboche, affectionately known as the 'summer valley.' This leg of your journey offers a harmonious blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage, ensuring a day filled with unforgettable moments.

Day 08

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

During your second acclimatization day, following breakfast, you'll embark on a 6-hour trek to an altitude of 5100m, aiming for Nangkartshang Peak, situated above Dingboche in the Chhukung Valley.

The day's strategy involves climbing high and sleeping low. The trail may present steep sections, posing a rigorous physical challenge. Ascending the hill at this altitude might require up to 5 hours.

At the summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Lobuche East, Lobuche West, Taboche Peak, Thamserku, Kangtega, and the majestic Ama Dablam. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Makalu, the world's fifth-highest mountain, along with expansive views of the Pheriche Valley.

After enjoying the summit's splendor, you'll descend back to Dingboche, a descent lasting approximately 2 hours.

Day 09

Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m/16,210 ft, 5 hours)

Day 10

Trek to Everest Base Camp Via Gorak Shep and Back to Gorak Shep (5,364 m/17,598 ft, 8 hours)

Ascending through meadows, catch a glimpse of the Khumbu Glacier below. Directly ahead lies Kalapattar, offering unparalleled views of the entire south face and the surrounding peaks. After a couple of hours, we'll reach Gorekshep and proceed towards Everest Base Camp.

While there isn't significant elevation gain, the terrain features numerous ups and downs, which, combined with the altitude, can be demanding. However, the journey is undeniably rewarding.

After approximately 3 hours of hiking, you'll reach Base Camp, where you can marvel at the sights of the Khumbu Glacier and icefall, the starting point for Everest expeditions.

Day 11

Hike to Kala Patthar and Desend to Dzongla (4,830 m/15,850 ft, 7 to 8 hours)

Day 12

Trek to Thangan via Chola Pass (7 hours)

Day 13

Trek to Gokyo Lake (4700 m/1540 ft, 2 to 3 hours)

Begin your day with an exhilarating climb, traversing the rugged terrain towards the magnificent Chola Pass.

Upon reaching the summit, commence your descent towards Thangna, a journey characterized by its steady pace and obstacles, yet adorned with stunning landscapes and a deep sense of achievement.

Wrap up your day's adventure with an overnight stay in Thangna, offering a chance to relax, contemplate the day's expedition, and revitalize amidst the tranquil splendor of the Himalayas.

Day 14

Hike to Gokyo Ri and Trek to Dole (4,038 m/13,248 ft, 7 to 8 hours)

Before breakfast, you'll embark on a hike to Gokyo Ri, tackling a steep and demanding ascent lasting about 3 to 4 hours.

Upon reaching the summit, you'll be greeted with an unparalleled vista, revealing the picturesque Gokyo Valley, and the tranquil Gokyo Lake.

From the impressive Kusum Kanguru to the towering Everest, the panorama unfolds, showcasing peaks such as Thamserku, Taboche, Cholatse, Kangtega, K 43, Pumori, Changtse, Nuptse, and Lhotse. This breathtaking view serves as a visual feast, capturing the essence and splendor of the Himalayas in a memorable morning spectacle.

After soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery, you'll trek back down to Gokyo. Following breakfast, you have the option to continue your trek to Dole.

Day 15

Trek to Namche Bazar (3,440 m/11,286 ft, 5 to 6 hours)

Following your stay in Dole, you descend to Phorste Tenga and then descend a steep hill to Mong-la Danda. Once you've conquered this incline, the trail leads you back down to Kyangjuma, offering a more gradual descent towards Namche.

Arriving in Namche Bazaar after spending several nights in the remote wilderness feels like a comforting embrace. It's a bustling hub where the comforts of civilization harmonize with the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 16

Trek to Lukla (2,860 m/9,383 ft, 7 hours)

Following our trek from Namche along the Dudh Kosi River, we arrive at the mountain airstrip in Lukla, signaling the start of our journey back to Kathmandu.

Our final night in Lukla is spent cherishing the last moments of our adventure. The next day, as we prepare for our flight back to Kathmandu, we bid heartfelt farewells to our guide and Sherpa team, expressing gratitude for their invaluable support and camaraderie that enriched our journey.

These farewell moments are imbued with appreciation, reflecting on the indelible memories we've created together.

Day 17

Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1400 m/4600ft)

Day 18

Departure Day

If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

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Cost Details

Cost Includes

All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers.
Three daily meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
All accommodations during the trek (all on twin sharing basis)
One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide. Porters (1 porter for two people), including their food, accommodation, salary, and equipment. Accident insurance for all staff.
Round-trip to/from Lukla, including transfers. (Flights operate via Ramechhap Airport during peak season.)
All necessary permits and extra government fees

Cost Excludes

Personal travel insurance.
International airfare.
Soft drinks, including water.
Personal trekking equipment.
Wi-Fi internet and phone calls, unless they are free.
Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers.
Travel Inusrance

Dates & Availability

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Good to Know

Permits Needed for Chola Pass Trek

For the Chola Pass Trek in the Everest region of Nepal, you'll need the following permits:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit: This permit is required for entry into the Sagarmatha National Park, where most of the trekking takes place. It can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the entry point of the national park in Monjo.

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): The TIMS card is required for trekking in Nepal and helps to ensure the safety and security of trekkers. It can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) office.

Local Area Permit for Everest: In addition to the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and TIMS card, trekkers may also need a local area permit specifically for the Everest region. This permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or from the local authorities in Lukla.

Accommodations During 18 Day Chola Pass Trek

Generally, teahouses or lodges along the route provide hikers with simple but pleasant accommodations throughout the Chola Pass Trek. After a long day of hiking, these accommodations are spaced strategically along the path to offer a spot to relax, eat, and recover.

Lower up the trail, in places like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, teahouses are more luxurious, offering private or shared rooms, hot showers (often at an extra charge), and communal eating spaces or dining halls for meals. Basic furniture such as sleeping bags or mattresses and blankets is typically provided in the rooms, and some even have adjoining restrooms.

The amenities at teahouses are progressively more basic as you go higher into the highlands because of the isolation and increasingly difficult weather. Accommodations in villages like Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche might be as basic as twin rooms or as large as dormitories. Only common spaces may have heating and hot showers might not be offered or might cost extra.

The lodgings are more basic in the most isolated parts of the walk, such as Gorak Shep and Dzongla, and frequently consist of simple rooms with little furniture. Because of the harsh circumstances at high elevations, there could not be any heating at all, and amenities like showers would not be accessible.

Meal Options While Trekking to Chola Pass

Food options and availability along the Gokyo Chola Pass trek via Everest Base Camp are generally satisfactory. Throughout the trek, numerous small villages and teahouses offer basic accommodations and meals. These teahouses serve a variety of local and simple western dishes, including dal bhat, momos, pasta, and pizza.

For breakfast, trekkers can expect a range of options such as pancakes, cornflakes, local bread, chapatti, porridge, eggs prepared in various styles (fried, scrambled, boiled, or as omelets), toast, muesli with milk, hash brown potatoes, and more.

Lunch and dinner menus typically mirror each other, featuring similar offerings to breakfast. Additionally, soups like tomato soup, mushroom soup, garlic soup, vegetable soup, and chicken soup may be available during dinner.

As for beverages, teahouses commonly serve a variety of teas, including black tea, milk tea, lemon tea, ginger tea, and mint tea. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy options like milk coffee or black coffee. These beverages provide a refreshing way to warm up and re-energize during the trek.

Is Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking via EBC Difficult?

While trekking may appear as a thrilling outdoor adventure amidst beautiful scenery, the reality is far more demanding, particularly on routes like the EBC Trek with Gokyo Chola Pass.

Scaling the mountain pass and reaching Gokyo Lake pose significant challenges due to the rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and remote wilderness.

The trek's route demands respect as it involves numerous ascents and descents, traversing glacial moraines and high ridges. Trekking for two to three hours uphill repeatedly can exhaust stamina, making walking on level ground a daunting task.

Reaching Cho La Pass, one of the most challenging stages, requires confronting the Himalayas' fierce weather conditions. The trek presents a multitude of challenges, including:

Altitude Sickness: A common difficulty encountered due to spending prolonged periods at high altitudes, where rapid changes in air pressure affect oxygen levels, leading to breathing difficulties and sleep disturbances.

Extreme Weather: The Everest region's elevations bring about drastic weather changes, with low humidity and harsh temperatures, especially during the ascent to Everest Base Camp.

Risk of Frostbite: Ascending the ice sheet of Cho La Pass poses the risk of frostbite due to extremely cold temperatures. Exposed skin can freeze, swell, and lose sensation, necessitating adequate protective clothing to ward off the cold.

Trekking the EBC with Gokyo Chola Pass demands careful preparation, including acclimatization, appropriate gear, and a keen awareness of the environmental challenges to ensure a safe and rewarding adventure.

Packing List for 18 Day Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

Clothing:

Moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms)
Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jackets)
Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket
Waterproof and breathable hiking pants
Trekking pants (convertible or regular)
Lightweight thermal underwear (for high altitudes)
Insulated hat or beanie
Gloves or mittens (insulated and waterproof)
Hiking socks (wool or synthetic, multiple pairs)
Comfortable hiking boots or trekking shoes
Gaiters (for snow or mud)

Equipment:

Backpack (40-50 liters)
Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
Sleeping pad or insulated mattress
Trekking poles (adjustable, if preferred)
Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
Sunglasses (with UV protection)
Sun hat or cap
Buff or neck gaiter
Water bottles or hydration system (at least 2 liters capacity)
Personal first aid kit (including altitude sickness medication)
Trekking map and guidebook
Portable solar charger or power bank
Lightweight dry bags or stuff sacks (for organizing gear)

Personal Items:

Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)
Quick-dry towel
Sunscreen (high SPF)
Lip balm with SPF
Personal hygiene products (wet wipes, hand sanitizer)
Insect repellent
Personal medication (if required)
Multi-tool or knife

Miscellaneous:

Passports and necessary permits
Cash (Nepalese rupees) for purchases and tips
Lightweight daypack (for day trips from teahouses)
Journal or notebook with pen
Camera or smartphone (with extra batteries or power bank)
Trekking snacks (energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits)
Book or e-read for leisure time
Travel insurance documents

Optional Items:

Portable water purification systems or water purification tablets
Binoculars
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
Trekking umbrella (for rain or sun protection)
Earplugs

Travellers‘ reviews

l
Ms. lucy
21 6th 2023
Everest Gokyo Lake Trek: An Unforgettable High-Altitude Adventure with Himalayan Pinnacle
Trekking to Everest Gokyo Lake with Himalayan Pinnacle was an extraordinary experience. The breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and exceptional organization made the journey unforgettable. Their expert guides and attention to detail ensured a smooth and memorable trek. Highly recommend Himalayan Pinnacle for a remarkable adventure.