Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

Name: Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek
Brand: Nepal Trekking Routes
Price: 2050 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (8 reviews)

Conquer Cho La Pass: Gokyo to Everest Trek

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Duration18 Days

Trip GradeDifficult

CountryNepal

Maximum Altitude5545 M

Group Size1-10

StartsKathmandu

EndsKathmandu

ActivitiesTrekking/Hiking

Best TimeSeptember to December & March to May

Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek Highlights

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is a popular trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It is a challenging trek that takes you through diverse landscapes, traditional villages, and stunning mountain views. Here are some of the highlights of the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek.
Gokyo Lakes: The Gokyo Lakes are a series of six glacial lakes that are situated at an altitude of 4,700-5,000 meters. The lakes are known for their crystal clear water and stunning turquoise color, which makes them a popular destination for trekkers. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Cho La Pass: The Cho La Pass is a high mountain pass at an altitude of 5,420 meters. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Crossing the Cho La Pass is one of the highlights of the trek, but it is a challenging and steep climb.
Kala Patthar: Kala Patthar is a small peak at an altitude of 5,545 meters. It is one of the best viewpoints in the region and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. The trek takes you to the top of Kala Patthar, where you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset views.
Traditional Sherpa Villages: The trek takes you through traditional Sherpa villages, where you can experience the local culture and way of life. You’ll pass through Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, and other small villages like Dole, Machhermo, and Gokyo.
Everest Base Camp: The trek also takes you to Everest Base Camp, which is at an altitude of 5,364 meters. This is the starting point for climbers who attempt to summit Mt. Everest. The trek offers stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Do you want to have a different experience from the Everest Base Camp trek? Do you want to add some challenge to your Everest region trek? If ‘yes’, the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek is the ultimate package. This trek takes you to the base camp of Mount Everest. Besides, you can also visit the heavenly Gokyo Lakes Valley and cross Cho La Pass. Cho La Pass (5,420 m) is one of the three high passes of the Khumbu region.

Gokyo Valley is popular for Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Village, and Gokyo Ri (5,357 m). Gokyo Lakes are a group of six turquoise-watered lakes interconnected naturally. Other 19 glacial lakes of various sizes and shapes are also connected to this network. Gokyo Village is one of the largest settlement areas of the valley. It is popular for the friendly Sherpa people, their lifestyle, culture, tradition, and cuisines served at the best hospitality. You can visit the village and talk with the people to get first-hand experience about their community.

Sagarmatha National Park and the Sherpa socio-cultural aspects are the usual rewards of the Everest Base Camp trek. A hike to Everest View Hotel is another prize of the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek. Ancient monasteries, chortens and mani walls are also common features of this region. These Tibetan Buddhist shrines are highly decorated by colorful prayer flags and wheels. The feasts and festivals celebrated on regular intervals are also other beauties of Everest region trek.

How is Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek different from Everest Base Camp trek?

Both the treks are variants of Everest region trekking. The trekkers can have lifelong experiences of the natural and cultural wonders of this region. The snow-capped peaks, lush forests flora and fauna are the natural aspects. The man-made landmarks found in the Everest region fall under cultural characteristics. The monasteries, chortens, and mani walls built in every village have further beautified them. Similarly, Everest View Hotel is another significant man-made site worthy of visiting.

Everest Base Camp trek takes you to the base camp of the base camp of the world’s highest peak. You follow the traditional routes along Sagarmatha National Park. You go past the Sherpa ethnic villages of this region. Apart from this, the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek is a little deviation from the EBC trek. It takes you to Chhukung Valley and Gokyo Valley away from the Dudh Koshi River Valley. Crossing Cho La Pass (5,420 m) is an adventurous trekking in Nepal.

While doing the EBC trek, you get to visit two vantage points of the Everest region. Everest View Hotel and Kalapatthar are the viewpoints you reach in this trek. Everest View Hotel is the highest-altitude hotel in the world. Kalapatthar is the world’s highest place you can climb without a special permit. The Gokyo Cho La Pass trek takes you to other two vantage points. Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) rewards you with the best view of the Great Himalayas, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Valley. You can also have the view of four eight-thousanders of Everest and Makalu region.

Cho La Pass is one of the three high passes of Everest Three High Passes trek. The scenery from Gokyo Ri and Cho La Pass are almost the same. Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m) and many more are seen from here.

Is Cho La Pass trek difficult?

Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek combines a high Himalayan pass above 5,000 m. Cho La Pass (5,420 m) is one of the three high passes of the Khumbu region. This high pass adds up to the difficulty of this trek. The final section of the pass is almost always covered with a thick layer of snow. The snow makes the trail more slippery to walk along. More than that, in winter, you should use the climbing gears to cross it.

The traditional trekking trail of EBC trek is well maintained and defined. So, it is not very difficult to reach the base camp of Mount Everest throughout the year. The Gokyo Cho La Pass trek becomes a little challenging due to the high pass. Moreover, you have to walk for about 6/7 hours per day above 3,000 m. As soon as you walk above 2,500 m, there is always a chance for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You need to be more cautious to avoid such health hazards.

How to do Cho La Pass trek?

To begin the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek, you must fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. It takes around 30 minutes to reach Lukla, the gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek. Then, you move further to Phakding, Namche, Tengboche and Dingboche. By leaving the usual EBC trekking trail, you divert towards Chhukung Valley. Then, following the rugged trail and enjoying the glorious Himalayan views, you enter into Gokyo Lakes Valley. You spend a day in this valley to climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Gokyo Lakes.

Next, you trek to Lobuche and then move towards Gorakshep to spend a night. On the first day, you visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). The following morning, you hike to Kalapatthar, the best vantage point. Afterwards, you descend to Namche, Lukla and then fly back to Kathmandu. The flight to and from Lukla gives you the best aerial view of the Everest region. The snow-covered mountains, lush valleys, dense forests and high-altitude villages are also seen.

Alternative Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek Route

Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek is designed to help you experience something different. It is to equip the EBC trek with more interesting things to make it more memorable. It guides you through the Dudh Koshi Valley, Chhukung Valley, and Gokyo Valley respectively. You have a choice to visit Gokyo Valley after completing the Everest Base Camp trek. For this, you reach EBC by walking through the regular track. After relishing the breathtaking view of the Mountain Giants, you trek down towards Gorakshep.

Then, you climb down to Dzongla and then Thangna via Cho La Pass (5,420 m). From Thangna, you walk up to Gokyo Valley to spend a day there. After visiting the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri, you climb down towards Dole, Namche, and Lukla. In the end, you fly back to Kathmandu by leaving the Everest region behind.

The Best Time for Gokyo Cho La Pass trek

You can do the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek in all seasons. However, if it snows heavily, the trail across Cho La Pass remains blocked. It is almost impossible to clear 8/10 feet thick snow layers. The best time for the Everest Gokyo Lakes Cho La Pass trek is spring and autumn. In these seasons, the days are fine with clear skies. While crossing the high pass, you can have the best vistas of the mountains and landscapes.

Although the weather is not predictable in summer, the visibility is clear. You can have the best rewards of the natural and cultural beauties from the vantage points. Gokyo Ri, Cho La Pass, Everest View Hotel, and Kalapatthar are the remarkable viewpoints of the Everest region. Doing this trek in winter is quite difficult. The temperature of this high Himalayan place goes far below zero. The heavy snowfalls obstruct the journey by blocking the Nepal trekking trails. If you visit this region in spring, the rhododendron flowers embellish the entire Sagarmatha National Park.

Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand All

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu and Transfer to the Hotel

Upon your arrival time, a representative from Nepal Trekking Routes will reach Kathmandu International Airport [TIA] to welcome and receive you. You will then be escorted to your hotel where you can refresh and relax and in the evening a welcome dinner program will be organized at a Nepali restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1350 m Accommodation: Deluxe Hotel

Day 02: City Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

After enjoying morning breakfast, you will be picked by your guide from the hotel and take around Kathmandu for sightseeing. You will visit world heritage monuments such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swoyambunat and Bouddhanath. In the evening, our trekking guide will conduct a briefing about the trekking program before dinner. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Deluxe Hotel

Day 03: Kathmandu to Phakding via Lukla flight

Wake up early today to catch a mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to Mt. Everest. Unload your rucksacks and star trekking towards Phakding. Enroute you will pass through pine and oak forests with occasional chirping sound of birds. Overnight in Phakding.

Max Altitude: 2652 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 Hrs

B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, and D= Dinner

Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Have a warm breakfast and take in the crispy air. The trail leaving Phakding parallels the Dudkhosi River alongside the forested hills. Crossing of the suspension bridge over the confluence of Bhotekoshi and Dudhkoshi allows for a first glimpse of Everest and other peaks. The last segment is fairly uphill trek till you reach Namche Bazar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: 3440 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Day 05: Namche Bazaar: Rest day

Today is an acclimatization day. You will spend exploring and learning about the sights and sounds of Namche Bazaar. Or alternatively you can hike up to Everest View Hotel, one of world’s highest hotels to capture an amazing panorama of Mahalangur Himalayan ranges including Everest, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Choaltse and so forth. Afterwards return to Namche and spend evening in cozy Namche cafes or pubs. Overnight in Namche

Max Altitude: 3440 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: Rest Day

Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga

We climb the Khumjung hill and descend to the east of the village down the broad valley leading to the Dudh Koshi from where the route turns north. There are two trails and our guide will choose the best option for us to follow. There is a chorten on the ridge top at 3973 m which descends from Mt. Khumbila (5761 m). We visit Mongla, the birthplace of the re-incarnated Lama of Rongbuk Monastery of Tibet who is believed to have introduced Buddhism in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trail descends in a series of steep switchbacks down a sandy slope to the Dush Koshi. We stay overnight in Phortse Tanga, near the river.

Max Altitude: 3680 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6/7 Hrs

Day 07: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo

From Phortse Thanga it is an uphill climb to Machhermo. We walk on a trail alongside a rhododendron forest and pass through a waterfall before reaching Tongba Village. We continue our uphill trek and pass through Dhole, Labarma and Luza villages before reaching Machhermo. There is a Chhorten right before the Luza village. Throughout today’s journey we will be walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Machhermo.

Max Altitude: 4470 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 Hrs

Day 08: Machhermo to Gokyo

We begin today by climbing a ridge for an excellent view down the valley to Kangtaiga and also up towards Cho Oyu (8153 m). The valley now widens as the trail passes through Phangkha, where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people. We then descend to the riverbank before climbing onto the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa Glacier on a steep trail. Upon crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo, at 4690 m. At this juncture, we get a chance to observe lama footprints on a stone. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho, we become mesmerized by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two linked by a surging stream. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an amazing spectacular sight here. After lunch, we explore around the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. Overnight in Gokyo.

Max Altitude: 4800 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 Hrs.

Day 09: Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day - Optional Hike to Gokyo Ri

We will hike to Gokyo Ri, a small peak above Gokyo village, in the morning and savor the fantastic views of the entire Khumbu region. As we ascend, the views become even more fantastic and we can see four of the seven highest peaks of Nepal, Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu. Reaching the fourth lake, Thonak Tsho we take pleasure in the lake’s serene beauty after which we trek back along the retracing trail to the third lake. We may take an additional hike up to the fifth lake, Ngozumba Tsho if time permits and depending on our physical conditions. From here, the view of Ngozumba glacier, the longest glacier of the Himalayas, is so fascinating. Overnight in Gokyo.

Max Altitude: 5370 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Day 10: Gokyo to Thagnak

If we did not climb the Gokyo Ri the previous day, we can do that today. Climbing to the top of Gokyo Ri is demanding as it is steep and takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the top. But the scenery of Gokyo village, on the edge of third lake overlooked by Cholatse and the broad Nogzumpa Glacier, is magnificent. We are surrounded by panoramic mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. The sight of sunrays kissing Everest which towers over all the surrounding peaks is astounding. We trek through the Ngazumpa Glacier to the mountain on the other side. Next, traverse along the edge of that mountain and then meander into Thagnak. It will be a short hike today with an afternoon of rest which will prepare us for long hiking days and elevation gain to come.

Max Altitude: 4750 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 Hrs

Day 11: Trek from Thagnak to Dzongla via Chola Pass

Today is one of the challenging day for this trek. Your trekking guide give you wake up call around 4 am and take you to the cho la pass. Chola pass is one of the popular mountain pass in Everest region. You need to be at the pass around sunrise time which make you view the best view. After pass you will slowly down to Dzongla for overnight. If you want to stay in Dzongla continue to walk to Lobuche for overnight

Max Altitude: 4800 M via 5360 Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 9 Hrs

Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche

This will be a very short trek so we have a lot time to relax and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. We climb down from Dzongla and walk through a grassy trail while enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak. The trail curves through the wide river bed before reaching Lobuche. We can spend the rest of day taking a rest which will help us prepare for the next day’s long trek. Overnight in Lobuche.

Max Altitude: 4910 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Day 13: Lobuche to Gorekshep via EBC

This is most probably the best section of trekking on this trip. The trail is a bit rocky and challenging as you walk parallele to Khumbu glaciers on your right. The final section involves negotiating your way through big rocks and boulders. Gorakshep is the last village before Everest base camp. Overnight in Gorakshep.

Max Altitude: 5170 M via 5364 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

Day 14: Gorekshep to Pheriche Via Kalapatthar

Rise up early, very early in the morning, around 4 am. You will start your trekking in the moonlight as you attempt to scale to the top of Kalapathar. All this effort is required to reach to the top of Kalapathar just at dawn, when the sunlight hits Mt. Everest and what lay infront you is the most stunning and magnificent views of sunrise on Mt. Everest. You will have plenty of time taking clicks before you return to Gorakshep. Have your lunch at Gorakshep and return to Pheriche. Overnight in Pheriche.

Max Altitude: 4280 M via 5545 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

Day 15: Pheriche to Namche

Retrace your step back to Namche. This is an easy walk, filled with ups and downs. Overnight in Namche.

Max Altitude: 3440 Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

Day 16: Namche to Lukla

You will continue to retrace your steps back to Lukla today enjoying the beautiful views of Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku and Choaltse. Overnight in Lukla.

Max Altitude: 2860 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

Day 17: Lukla - Kathmandu

Flight back to kathmandu

Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Deluxe HotelDuration: 30 Minutes flight

Day 18: Farewell Travel Guest

Time to go home and tell your friends and family of the fun and adventure had on your trek in Nepal. Or, you could extend your trip. We can arrange many other tours and trips for you, such as: Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure, Scenic Flight, Cycling or even another trek in a different region. Nepal Trekking Routes would be both pleased and honored to be at your service

Meals: Breakfast

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Cost Details

Includes

Airport pick-up and drop off service ,
Trekking Guide and Trekking porter(Two participant 1 porter, Porter carry Max 25 Kg ) Solo travel need to pay extra porter salary
Round trip flight fare for Kathmandu-Lukla -Kathmandu
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, accommodation during the trekking
Deluxe hotel in Kathmandu (BB) plan (Three nights only )
Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and trekking sticks (if required)
Trekking permit of National park,
TIMS(Trekking Information Management System )
Insurance and equipment for the trekking staffs
First aid kit
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program in typical Traditional Nepali restaurant
Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel Insurance Company

Excludes

Personal expenses
Heritage entry fee during the sightseeing in Kathmandu and other
Drinks, beverages, hot shower, extra accommodation in Kathmandu
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Tips for guide and porter
Extra Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu other than mentioned in Itinerary

Route Map

Essential Information

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is an adventurous alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route. This trek combines the serene beauty of the Gokyo Lakes with the challenge of crossing the Cho La Pass 5,420m) and reaching Everest Base Camp.

Location and Accessibility

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass is located in the Everest or Khumbu region of Nepal. The starting point of this trek is Lukla which is accessible by a 30-40 minute scenic flight from Kathmandu. The key stops of this trek are Namche Bazaar, Phortse Thanga, Machhermo, Gokyo, Cho La Pass and Everest Base Camp.

Duration and route

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek takes around 18 days to complete depending on acclimatization and itinerary adjustments.

The highlight of the route is
Lukla – Phakding - Namche Bazaar – Phortse Thanga – Machhermo – Gokyo – Thagnak – Cho La Pass – Lobuche – Everest Base Camp – Kala Patthar – Pheriche – Namche Bazaar – Lukla
The route covers a distance of approximately 130-140 km round trip.

Best Time to Trek

Spring (March-May): Spring is one of the best times for trekking in Nepal. The days are warm and pleasant for trekking. The clear skies offer stunning views of mountains. The blooming rhododendrons adorn the trails in hues of pink, red, and white.

Autumn (September – November): Autumn is one of the peak seasons. The weather is stable and comfortable for trekking. The crisp air and excellent visibility offer breathtaking mountain views.

Winter (December – February): Winter is harsh with extreme cold. The trails are covered by snow and are difficult to navigate. There are fewer trekkers which makes the trails quiet. The teahouses may be closed for the season. You can either avoid trekking in this season or be prepared with extra clothing and proper gear.

Monsoon (June – August): During monsoon, there is a risk of landslides. The trails are slippery and wet. The visibility is poor due to rain. You will need waterproof clothing and gear for trekking in this season. Despite the challenges, this season offers lush landscape and unique scenery.

Permits Required

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required to enter the Sagarmatha National Park.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: This permit is required to enter the local municipality area.
These permits can be obtained from Lukla or Kathmandu. If you are trekking with our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes, we will arrange the permits for you.

Accommodation and Food

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass has teahouses along the route. The teahouses provide the accommodation and food for the trekkers. The accommodations are basic and include private rooms with single or twin beds, blankets, pillows, shared bathrooms and communal dining areas.

Food options are dal bhat and curry, noodles, momos, pancakes, soups etc. Drinking water is available but you need water purification tablets or filters. You should avoid bottled water to minimize plastic waste.

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Layered clothing, down jacket, thermal wear, gloves, beanie etc.
Gear: Trekking Poles, Trekking boots, headlamps, and a durable backpack.
Accessories: First aid kit, toiletries, sunglasses, snacks etc.

Trekking Challenges

Altitude

One of the challenges of this trek is significant altitude gain with prolonged trekking above 4,000 m. The higher you go the thinner the air becomes with less oxygen. You may suffer from altitude sickness if you ascend quickly. The symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, etc.
Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. You should rest and hydrate allowing your body to adjust to the altitude.
Cho La Pass Crossing: The Cho La Pass crossing is challenging and requires navigating icy and rocky terrain. It can be hazardous in bad weather.

Weather:

The unpredictability of weather in the high altitudes is challenging. Sudden weather changes can affect visibility and safety, especially on high passes.

Physical Demands

The physical demands of this trek are another challenge. You have to endure long trekking hours. The steep ascents and descents and uneven trails are difficult to navigate and require a good physical fitness.

Physical and Mental Preparation

You should start training 2-3 months before the trek. You should build stamina with cardio (running, jogging, swimming, etc), strength training (squats, lunges, crunches, etc), and practice hikes carrying a loaded backpack.
You should also prepare mentally by maintaining a positive attitude and determination to handle the trek’s challenges.

Safety Tips

Acclimatize: You should include rest days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo to prevent altitude sickness.
Start Early: You should begin Cho La Pass crossing early in the morning to avoid unstable weather.
Hydration: You should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and energized.
Hire a Guide or Porter: You should hire a guide and porter. They will ensure your safety, and help with navigation and cultural insights.

Cultural Experiences

During the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek, you will pass through the Sherpa villages. You can immerse yourself in Sherpa traditions, hospitality, and cuisine in villages like Namche and Khumjung.
You can also visit Tengboche monastery which is an important spiritual site with spectacular views. If you are trekking in October/November, you can observe the Manin Rimdu festival.

Environmental Responsibility

While trekking you should be sensitive and responsible towards the environment of the region. You should follow the Leave No Trace principles by carrying out all trash, avoiding using single-use plastics and sticking to designated trails to minimize environmental impact.

How difficult is the Trek?

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek is considered a difficult trek. The difficulty of the trek depends on your fitness level and the time of year. The high-altitude pass can be challenging for beginners.

Cost of Trek

The approximate cost of the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek package is USD 1795 according to Nepal Trekking Routes. The package includes transportation to and from the trailhead, food, and accommodation during the trek, permits, and guides. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses:
Permits:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Fee: $30 per person
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: $20 per person
Transportation:
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (Round Trip): $350-$400
Local Transportation for transfers in Kathmandu: $20-$50
Accommodation and Food
Teahouses: $5-$20 depending on location and season.
Meals: $5-$10 per meal; expect to spend $25-$30 daily on food and drinks
Guide and Porter Services
Guide: $25-$30 per day
Porter: $15-$20 per day
If you book your trek with us, we provide a well-organized trek with transparent pricing.

Age Limit

There is no official age limit for this trek. It is recommended that people under 15 and over 60 should not attempt it. Trekking for long days at high altitudes and navigating challenging terrains can be physically demanding. The trek requires a good level of fitness and trekking experience.

Best alternative Itinerary for Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

The best alternative itinerary for the Gokyo Cho La Pass is the combination of the Gokyo Valley trek with the Renjo La Pass instead of the Cho La Pass. This alternative trek offers less-crowded yet equally stunning views and a more relaxed experience. This itinerary also features iconic destinations like Gokyo Lakes and the Everest region. Here is the alternative itinerary:
Day 1: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding.
Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Day 3: Acclimatization day at Namche bazaar. Visit Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village.
Day 4: Trek to Dole
Day 5: Trek to Machhermo.
Day 6: Trek to Gokyo and explore the first three Gokyo Lakes.
Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri for sunrise view of Everest, Cho Oyu, and other peaks.
Day 8: Cross Renjo La Pass to Lungden.
Day 9: Trek to Thame.
Day 10: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Day 11: Trek to Lukla.
Day 12: Fly back to Kathmandu.
This route avoids the technical challenge of Cho La Pass while offering stunning landscapes and a rewarding adventure.

FAQs

Why should I do Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek?

For many reasons, we recommend you to do the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek. First of all, it is more interesting than the Everest Base Camp trek. Along with the opportunity to reach the base camp of Mount Everest, you get to cross a high Himalayan pass.

Next, you can visit some best viewpoints of the Everest region. Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Cho La Pass (5,420m) show you the enchanting view of 4 eight-thousanders and other peaks. Similarly, the natural network of the six glacial lakes of the Gokyo Valley are something you shouldn’t miss while in Everest region.

Can I do Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek?

Yes, of course. But, you need to be physically fit, in a habit of regular walking and mentally strong. Even if you are a beginner, you can do it by following the instructions given by the team leader.

And if you have the previous climbing or trekking experience in the Himalayas, you can cover it very easily. Sometimes, you may have to use the climbing gears like rope, ice axes, crampons and hand lines as well.

Can I see the Everest Summit from Everest Base Camp?

No, you can’t! Mt. Nuptse (7,861m) blocks the Everest Summit to see from the base camp. Nonetheless, you can see it from other parts of Everest region because it. This is because of the geographical structure of the Everest Massif. Kalapatthar (5,550m) is the place that shows you Mt. Everest and other peaks very close.

What is the best vantage point of Everest region?

Many viewpoints serve with the picturesque view of the snowy peaks and amazing landscapes in the Everest region. Among them, Kala Patthar (Black Rock: 5,550m) is the best vantage point where you can reach without any permit.

Located on the south ridge of Mt. Pumori, it is a must-reach-place to have the magnificent view of the Everest Summit. This place helps you shoot the photos and videos by keeping Mt. Everest on the backdrop. These photos and videos are the testimonials that you have once been to the highest place on earth

Which is the hotel located at the highest altitude in the world?

The Guinness Book of World Records 2004 shows that Everest View Hotel is the highest-placed hotel in the world. Set up and run by a Japanese traveler, Takashi Miyahara in 1971, it is located at 13,000 feet in the Sagarmatha National Park territory.

You can have a 360-degree panoramic view of the snowcapped peaks of the Everest region. Most of the trekkers hike to Everest View Hotel during the acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. This hike gives you the jaw-dropping vistas of the Great Himalayas.

What happens if the trip gets canceled or I cannot make it?

If the trip gets canceled, you will be fully refunded but if you cannot make it, you will receive a refund but how much you will get back depends on how many days before the trip you inform about your cancellation. For complete details, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.

How fit do I need to be for my trip?

If you occasionally participate in physical activities such as running, exercising, hiking, or any other organized sports, you are probably fit enough to hike to the Everest Base Camp. Then again, you will have a ton of fun if you prepare yourself for the hike in advance.

What prior experience do I need for this trip?

There is no has to in this trip! You can or cannot have prior experience hiking to the foothill of the world’s tallest peak.

How do I select and pack my backpack?

It depends greatly on your comfort level and enjoyment on the trail. But, worry not, as you will be given a packing list before your trip to exclude extra weight.

What clothing will I need for this trip?

For this trip, you will need winter clothes but don’t bring any heavy jackets or boots. Also, refrain from using cotton materials as they tend to soak up water pretty quickly. Here’s a great example of what you should pack, either clothing or equipment, during the Everest Region trekking.

Do I need any permits to travel to this camp?

You will need a TIMS card and a Sagarmatha National Park entrance to get to your destination. But, worry not as our guides will take care of all those technical stuffs.

Is there a minimum/maximum age group for this backpack trek?

Participants must be at least 9 years old at the least, and the max, well, there is no such thing as maximum age for participation. But, you should be able to carry your backpack and walk over strenuous paths.

How can I prevent altitude sickness?

Most of the time you won’t have to worry about that as we will take a day or two off to acclimatize to the climate. If ever, you get signs of Altitude Sickness we’ll use Diamox. If the symptoms persist, you will be taken back to the lower regions.

Should I tip, and if so, how much?

Tips are a standard practice all around the globe, but there is no such thing as a fixed amount for tips.

Are there internet access?

Yes! There’s internet access in some of the parts of the Khumbu Region but, internet speed is very slow here. There are internet café’s in Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and even at Gorak Shep. However, as the altitude rises, the connection gets slower and slower.

Video Reviews

Best EBC trek with Three Pass challenge and Upper Dolpo trek with Nepal Trekking Routes

Robert Bonn (United States)

What Our Travelers are Saying?

All-round carefree care 😊

We wanted to come to Nepal for a 2-week trek and chose Nepal Trekking Routes as our tour operator - a good decision 😊 Shailesh planned and organized our vacation...