Everest Chola Pass Trek details Itinerary
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging and adventurous trek that combines the classic Everest Base Camp (EBC) route with the thrilling crossing of the Cho La Pass (5,420 meters). This trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, as well as the chance to explore the beautiful Gokyo Lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier.
Overview of the Everest Cho La Pass Trek
Duration: Typically 18-21 days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best Seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Highest Point: Cho La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)
Starting Point: Lukla
Ending Point: Lukla
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 meters / 4,593 feet)
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
Trek briefing and preparation.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,651 meters / 8,698 feet)
Flight duration: 35 minutes
Trekking duration: 3-4 hours
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters / 11,286 feet)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Optional hikes to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867 meters / 12,687 feet)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Visit Tengboche Monastery.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 meters / 14,305 feet)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Optional hike to Nagarjun Hill or Chukhung Valley.
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940 meters / 16,207 feet)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,164 meters / 16,942 feet) and Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters / 17,598 feet)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Overnight in Gorak Shep.
Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters / 18,192 feet) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830 meters / 15,846 feet)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest.
Day 11: Trek from Dzongla to Thangnak (4,700 meters / 15,419 feet) via Cho La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Challenging day crossing the Cho La Pass.
Day 12: Trek from Thangnak to Gokyo (4,800 meters / 15,748 feet)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Explore the Gokyo Lakes.
Day 13: Acclimatization Day in Gokyo
Optional hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters / 17,575 feet) for panoramic views.
Day 14: Trek from Gokyo to Dole (4,038 meters / 13,248 feet)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 15: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar
Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 16: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 17: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
Flight duration: 35 minutes
Transfer to hotel and rest.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your departure.
Key Highlights
Cho La Pass: A high mountain pass offering breathtaking views and a challenging crossing.
Gokyo Lakes: A series of turquoise, glacial-fed lakes in the Gokyo Valley.
Kala Patthar: Offers the best close-up views of Mount Everest.
Everest Base Camp: The starting point for Everest expeditions.
Namche Bazaar: The bustling Sherpa town and gateway to the Everest region.
Tengboche Monastery: The largest monastery in the Khumbu region with stunning views of Ama Dablam.
Preparation and Tips
Physical Fitness: This trek is demanding, requiring good cardiovascular fitness and strength. Train with hiking, running, and strength exercises.
Altitude Acclimatization: Follow a gradual ascent profile and include acclimatization days to prevent altitude sickness.
Gear and Clothing: Pack appropriately for varying temperatures, including layers, a down jacket, good-quality hiking boots, and a sleeping bag.
Permits: Obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS card.
Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet during the trek.
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is an unforgettable adventure that combines the iconic Everest Base Camp experience with the beauty of the Gokyo Lakes and the thrill of crossing a high mountain pass.