Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

Trip Information
  • Trip Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End Kathmandu/Kathmandu
  • Trip Type Trekking
  • Accommodation Tea House Lodge
  • Transport By Flight
  • Best Season March-May, Sep-Nov

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

We specialists in organizing Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass holidays. Spectacular views are waiting for you in Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking! Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass is world famous walking holidays. Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is most popular trekking trail of Everest region. Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is the ideal destination for tourism in Nepal. Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking is one of our popular adventure holidays. We offer special rates with best service on your Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking.

Khumbu region is considered as one of well-known areas for trekking in the world. Thousands of visitors pay their visit annually in this marvelous region. The inhabitants of the region are the legendary Sherpas. These hardy people have carved an existence since time immemorial from the frozen landscape. Deep in the Himalaya, in a quite remote valley, are the magnificent azure blue Gokyo Lakes. The series of glacial lakes are set in beautiful high altitude wilderness dominated by the great peaks of Cho Oyu, (8153m.) and Gyachungkang (7922m.). Quite less well-known than the main Everest trail, a trek in this valley provides stunning views of many Himalayan giants. This high altitude trek explores the heart of the Sherpa homeland, visiting Namche Bazaar,and Tyangboche before ascending to our destination.

Justifiably acknowledged as one of Nepal's most famous treks to the Khumbu Mountains & Sherpa settlements, the trek offers a unique experience to the visitors. The trail to Gokyo and Chola Pass is a gradual ascent up the valley passing through patches of birch and rhododendron forest where the elusive musk deer can sometimes be seen. Through small yak-grazing settlements we reach the Gokyo Lakes where we ascend the Gokyo Peak (5480m) and enjoy stunning mountains summit views including Everest, Makalu and Cho Oyo.

Visiting the Cho La pass, we reach Dzongla. The views of Ama Dablam and Taweche look spectacular from here. Ascending Zhongla, we continue towards Gorak Shep and climb to Kala Pattar (5545m) from where we enjoy an impressive close-up view of Everest. Our return route passes through Tengboche monastery, where we rest and savor the incredible scenery, including magnificent views of Everest, Ama Dablam (6856m), Kantega (6809m), Kwangde (6194m), Nuptse (7879m) and Lhotse (8511m)

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass in spring season

Spring is an ideal time for Everest Base camp Trek via Gokyo lakes and Cho La Pass. Spring which spans form March-May offers the perfect weather condition with mild temperature ranging from 1 to 13° Celsius and clear skies. The trails in spring looks mesmerizing with vibrant colors of new blooming flowers and rhododendrons. Get a majestic view of the breathtaking mountains due to high and clear visibility in spring. Therefore, spring is considered as the great time to undertake Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo lakes and Cho La Pass.

Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass in monsoon season

Monsoon (June-Aug) is not a great time for the Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass. Due to the frequent rainfall and unpredictable weather conditions the trek becomes challenging in this season. The temperature in this season is hot than other time of the year. Trekkers experiences warm, wet and humid weather in monsoon. The trekking trails are peaceful with less trekkers. the paths are usually slippery which cause risks in the trek. The flights may get delayed or canceled due to bas weather condition which makes the trip less enjoyable. Overall, monsoon is not a good time to do the Everest trek via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass.

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass in autumn season

Autumn is considered the best season for the trekking in Everest via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass. The temperature during this season is neither too hot nor too cold. Autumn season spanning from Sept- Nov attracts the trekkers with favorable weather conditions and breathtaking vistas. The trekking routes and the teahouses are mostly crowded in this season. You can interact and connect with the trekkers and share the experiences. Overall, autumn season exciting and unforgettable adventure in Everest.

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass in winter season

Winter season is not much recommended for Everest base camp trek via Gokyo lakes and Cho La Pass. The season brings risks while trekking with harsh weather. Winter is the coldest season with the temperature dropping up to -17°C and even lower at the high passes. The heavy snowfalls in the region block the paths which makes the trekking difficult. The harsh weather might cause frostbite, dry skin, and irritation during the hike. So, it is highly recommended for trekkers to wear good layer of clothing. overall winter is not the best time to trek to Everest via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass.

Packing Lists for Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

Trekkers are suggested to be well prepared and pack the right equipment for the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass. Here are the packing lists of necessary equipment to pack in these 16 days long trek:

  • T-shirt, sweaters, waterproof jacket, down jacket
  • Trekking boots, warm socks and inner wears
  • Sun hat, sunscreen cream, face wipes, lip balm, sunglasses
  • Headlight, water bottles, power banks
  • Gloves, scarf, quick drying towel
  • Backpack, trekking pole, water purification tablets, sleeping bags
  • Money, Cell phone, Camera,
  • Necessary documents
  • First aid kit

Beside these you can bring other useful equipment to maintain hygiene and cleanliness like: tissues nail clippers, soap, moisturizers, camera, sanitary pads, sanitizer and other personal accessories. Do not over pack as it will be difficult on the trek.

Benefits of doing Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass with welcome Nepal Treks

  • Welcome Nepal Treks offer the trekking package at the reasonable price with high quality and best hospitality.
  • Arrangement of Trekking permits for the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass
  • Free Pick up and drop from Airport-Hotel-Airport
  • Arrangement of accommodation in teahouse lodges during the trek
  • Standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
  • We arrange some necessary trekking equipment like sleeping bags, Down jackets, trekking pole, etc. if you haven’t brought your own.
  • Professional, well trained and friendly trekking guide provided
  • Our team organize the Everest base camp trekking with full safety and security.

Major Highlights

  • One of the high pass of Cross Chola pass trek with Everest base camp
  • See the spectacular views of Mt. Everest from Gokyo Ri
  • Foothill of world’s tallest mountain
  • World’s most extreme airport
  • Sherpa heartland of Namche Bazaar
  • Himalayan sunrise from 5545 m height
  • Explore Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier
Itinerary
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Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Upon arrival at the airport, you would be received by our representative and then transfer to hotel.

  • Max. Altitude: 1300m
  • Accommodation:Hotel

We take early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.).After breakfast we start our trek to Phakding (2640 m.). We trek following a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi. Nupla (5885m) can be seen in a stone throwing distance on the opposite bank. In the late afternoon, we reach Phakding.

  • Max. Altitude: 2,610m

Having breakfast at Phakding, we commence our trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.).The trail goes along the right bank of Dudh Koshi. Thamserku is standing majestically skyward on the opposite bank. We then reach Bengar. The trail now climbs from the riverbed on the left bank into the mountain, through a forest to Chumoa. We continue along the trail with many ups and downs; cross a stream, and pass by the tiny village Monjo. We then come to Sagarmatha National Park Service where a park entrance fee is to be deposited. We follow a short walk along the riverbed of this V-shaped valley where the river forks Dudh Koshit to the right Bhote Koshi to the left. Now we begin steep ascent to Namche Bazar. On the way, we would have excellent views of Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8516m.).Surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges, Namche Bazar (3440m) is a central hub of the area for food, trekking gears and other necessary goods.

  • Max. Altitude: 3440m
  • Accommodation:Hotel

If we are acclimatizing well, we will want to walk up a hill for spectacular viewpoint where we can see all the way up the Imja Khola Valley to where the glacial moraine begins below the towering Mt Everest, 8848m. Other spectacular peaks. We can see Taweche, 6542m, Thamserku, 6808m, Kantega, 6685 m, Ama Dablam, 6856m, Nuptse, 7896m and Lhotse, 8511m. Besides, the great bazaar with a wonderful variety of shops to visit, today gives us a chance to visit the Sherpa Cultural Centre which has an interesting collection of mountaineering items and photographs. There is also the option of a day walk to the pretty village of Khumjung where Sir Edmund Hillary built his “Schoolhouse in the Clouds” and the famed Khunde hospital. We can see the “scalp of a yeti” at the Khumjung monastery. 

  • Max. Altitude: 3,441 m
  • Day tour time:4 hrs

Today as we trek, Ama Dablam, 6812m, one of the most beautiful peaks of the world will be showing its glimpse to us in a distance. As we go along, the trail follows the hillside of Khumbila and reaches our first pass, Mon La, from where the trail descends steeply to Phortse Drangka village. We leave the Everest trail and branch off to follow the Gokyo Valley along the tree-line until we reach the small mountain settlement of Dole. 

  • Max. Altitude: 4,200m

The trail goes through small yak mountain pastures, waterfalls and small villages namely Khele, Lhabarma and Luza before reaching Machermo. Machermo is a small village looking out on Cholatse, 6440m, Taweche, 6542m and facing the Kyajo glacier. 

  • Max. Altitude: 4,470m

The trail from Machhermo climbs a ridge from where you will get an excellent view. In front of you, will be the great Gokyo Valley with its streams and lakes, and the Cho-Oyu peak, 8153m and Kantega peak , 6686m and Ama Dablam 6812m on your back. We descend to the river bank below before beginning the steep climb up to a small mountain lake from where the trail levels out and follows along to Longponga Lake, 4690m, then finally up a boulder-strewn path to glorifying Gokyo.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,800m

The second major viewpoint in the Gokyo region, Gokyo Ri, begins on the northern side of the lake, opposite the village. Its panorama invites an early start and involves a two hour climb to its summit. It overlooks the broad, rubble-covered Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest, gouged out beneath a wall of towering peaks on its south-eastern flank. From the flag bedecked summit is the unforgettable vista of the Himalayan chain that includes Cho-Oyu and Ghyachung Kang, the north face of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cholatse, Taboche, Thamserku, Kangtega, Kusum Kangru (all over 6,300m/20,670ft) and many more, some unnamed. After breakfast at the hotel, take a leisurely stroll back down the trail to past the second lake, Taboche Tsho, and then climb up the moraine and cross the kilometre wide glacier to the tiny summer hamlet of Tagnag.

  • Max. Altitude: 4700 m

This day will be a big day as it will be tough. You should carry at least 2 liters of water before we start as it is not possible to buy in this area. We have to start in early morning between 4:30-5:30. The first two hours we have will be a steep climb up to yak pastures which we call the Chola High Camp. Though there aren’t any houses there, you will see Buddhist prayers flags blowing in the wind instead. The next one and half hours is not so steep because of loose stones and uneven ground. So, we recommend that you use walking sticks, be careful and take the advice of our guide whenever needed. The ascent to the snowy Cho La pass is very steep and it will take about 2 hours. From the pass, there is a superb view of Dzonglha Valley and its lake as well as the impressive North face of Jobo Lhaptshan, 6300m. The descent to Dzonglha, on the Cho La glacier is an endurance test. 

  • Max. Altitude: 4830m

We continue along the moraine of the glacier with views of Kalapathar and Pumori. Henceafter, we will reach Lobuche

  • Max. Altitude: 4910 m

Today, we start very early following the Khumbu Glacier northwards to Gorak Shep (5,180m). After a rest, we trek across the sandy flat at Gorak Shep and climb onto the lateral moraine of the Khumbu glacier. The trail ascends the side of the glacier for a couple of hours before descending onto the rocky glacial moraine itself. The trail winds up and down through fascinating ice seracs to the area known as Everest Base Camp where in spring, we may see some of the expedition teams as they prepare to summit the mountain. From the Base Camp, we get fantastic close up views of the Khumbu Ice Fall. Nuptse towers above us and Pumori rears up behind us. We retrace our steps to Gorak Shep. 

  • Max. Altitude: 5,180m

An early morning climb will take us to our destination peak, Kala Pattar following the Khumbu Glacier. From Kala Pattar, we will see the sunrise and enjoy superb views of the surrounding mountains. After celebrating our efforts and photographing this achievement, we return back to Pheriche.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,400 m
  • Day tour time:6-7 hrs

Gradually, we trek down to Pheruche and again pass through the Pangboche village, the same trail we used on the way up. The trail leads down to a river. After crossing the river, we walk for an hour up through the forest and reach Tengbuche. After taking a good break there, we'll walk continuously to Namche. 

  • Max. Altitude: 3441 m
  • Day tour time:5-6 hrs
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Boosted by all our new red blood cells, we rush down the footpath toward Sagarmatha National Park gate, in Jorsale. Later, Lukla footpath leads us back to the first villages we visited two weeks ago: Gumila, Phakdingma, and Choplung. The high peaks disappear behind the hills. In Lukla, this last evening in the mountains is the ideal opportunity for a farewell party with your sherpa guides and porters and a good chance to sample some chhyang, try Nepali and Sherpa dance and look back on the memorable trekking experiences. The staff will be hoping for some precious and well deserved tips. 

  • Max. Altitude: 2,845

We board our early flight to Kathmandu from Lukla. Upon arrival at TIA, we would be received by our representatives and transfer to hotel. In the evening we serve you farewell dinner in Nepal typical restaurant.

  • Max. Altitude: 1,300m
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Today is your last day so Free time until departure
Transfer to the international airport for final departure.

    Trip Map
    Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass map
    What's Included
    • Airport picks up and drops by private car/van/bus.
    • Two night's deluxe accommodation in Kathmandu (on the arrival day and after the trekking).
    • Your standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking.
    • Domestic airport pick up and drop by car/ Flight Ticket (LUK-KTM-LUK) / domestic airport Tax.
    • All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
    • An experienced, helpful and friendly Guide, porters (1 porter for 2 peoples).
    • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation and Insurance for the Guide and Porter.
    • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company.
    • Sagarmatha National park entrance permit and fees.
    • Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees.
    • First aid medical kit.
    • Duffle bag if necessary.
    • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show
    • All our government taxes, vat, official expenses & service charges
    What's not Included
    • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport - Kathmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos.
    • Your Travel insurance.
    • Food while you are in Kathmandu.
    • All the alcoholic and non alcoholic Drinks.
    • Hot shower during the trekking.
    • Tipping (expected by guides and porters, but not mandatory)
    Useful Information

    Altitude Sickness during Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

    Altitude sickness is a condition that occurs when a person is ascending to higher altitudes. Altitude Sickness is the most common risks faced by trekkers during Everest trek via Gokyo lake and Cho Lo Pass. It is caused by the reduced oxygen levels and lower air pressure at higher altitudes. The most frequent symptoms are dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, fatigue, and nausea. To prevent altitude sickness, trekkers are recommended to acclimatize well before going high, avoid alcoholic drinks and stay well hydrated.

    Difficulty level of Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

    The Everest base camp trek via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass is a challenging trek. this trek is known for significant elevation changes and high passes. Ascending to the high passes through rocky, icy or snowy terrain makes the trek difficult. The high passes like Cho LA Pass at an elevation of 5,240 meters, Gokyo Ri at 5,360 meters and Kalapatthar at 5,545 meters are the challenging parts of the 16 days Everest trekking via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass treks. To accomplish this trek, trekkers need to be physically fit and have good health condition.

    Permits for Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

    Different kinds of permits are needed for the Everest base camp trek via Gokyo lake and Cho La Pass.

    They are:

    • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
    • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
    • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card:

    Guides and Porters during Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

    The guides and porters are very helpful and useful for the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass. Welcome Nepal treks provide the best and professional trekking guides and porters for 16 days Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass. Travelling with the guide in unfamiliar places will be fun and easier to communicate with the locals. The guides know the best routes, locals and their cultures which will be a great advantage in the trek. Likewise, the porters will carry your heavy bags and keep them safe throughout the trek. You might face some injuries or difficulties during the trek, at that time the guides will look after you and help you. Having a professional trekking guide and porter for the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass is great as you will be enjoying the trek with proper safety and security.

    Travel Insurance in Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

    Trekkers are highly recommended to have Travel insurance while doing Everest base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake and Cho La pass. The travel Insurance is important as it provides the coverage for unexpected events or expenses that may occur during their trip. Your travel insurance should cover all the medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescue on the trek. It provides financial protection and peace of mind while trekking by covering various potential risks and emergencies.

    Tips for Guides and Porters during Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake and Co La Pass

    The tips are the reward in form of money or gifts to the services provider for their great work and services. It is not mandatory while doing Everest base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake and Cho La pass. During your trekking trip you will have a guide and porter who will help you and provide you the best services during the trek. The tipping is not compulsory for the trek but is expected by the guides and porters after providing you the best services throughout the trek. So, if you find their services good then you can tip them at the last day of trek which will make them happy and motivate them to do their work even better. It is just a way to show that you are thankful for their hard work and services. It completely depends on your wish/ choice.

    Why to do Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass

    Embarking on the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass is an adventure of a lifetime, offering the thrilling Himalayan experience in Nepal. An awe-inspiring vistas of the world's highest peak, the majestic Mount Everest along with other mountains will make your trip memorable. Conquering Cho La Pass, Gokyo Ri and Kalapthar in one trip is a big achievement. The trek is not only about physical journey, natural beauty or adventures but also about the unique culture of the Everest region. Overall, Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo lakes and Cho la Pass is a world-famous trekking that every adventure lover must try in Nepal.

    Trip Extension

    Here is list of some of the popular trip extensions after Everest base camp trek via Gokyo lakes and Co La pass:

    • UNESCO world heritage sites tour
    • Chitwan Tour Package
    • Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour
    • Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek
    • Nagarkot Sunrise hike
    • Nepal Culture Tour
    • Trishuli River Rafting, etc.