Overview
Cho-La Pass Trek – 17 Days
An Adventurous Journey Through Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes & Cho-La Pass
Trip Overview
Embark on the Cho-La Pass Trek, a 17-day journey that combines the best of the Everest region. This immersive trek blends iconic landmarks—Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the adventurous Cho-La Pass—into one unforgettable expedition through the heart of the Himalayas.
Explore diverse terrains, from rhododendron forests to glacial moraines. Enjoy carefully planned acclimatization days, ensuring your safety and comfort as you ascend to high altitudes. This route is perfect for experienced and adventurous trekkers seeking a comprehensive Everest experience beyond the standard trails.
Witness majestic peaks like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu, and discover the sacred serenity of the Gokyo Valley. The journey also allows for deep cultural encounters with Sherpa communities, Buddhist monasteries, and spiritual mountain vistas.
Note: During peak trekking seasons, flights to/from Lukla will operate via Ramechhap. Ground transport to Ramechhap will be arranged accordingly.
Trip Highlights
- Stand at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain.
- Marvel at a stunning chain of high-altitude turquoise lakes.
- Cross one of the most thrilling Himalayan passes with breathtaking views.
- Capture unforgettable sunrise views of Everest and its surrounding giants.
- Connect with the warm-hearted Sherpa people and explore ancient monasteries.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Summit Travels will warmly greet you and escort you to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, a short pre-trip meeting will be organized in the evening to discuss the trek itinerary and answer any last-minute questions.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Early in the morning, we take a scenic flight from Ramechhap to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Upon arrival in Lukla, we meet our trekking crew and begin the trek with a gentle descent through pine forests and Sherpa villages. Passing through Chheplung and crossing a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, we reach the village of Phakding, located beside the river.
- Elevation: Lukla (2,840m / 9,318ft) to Phakding (2,610m / 8,563ft)
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Distance: 8km
Today, we follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. The trail passes through beautiful pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages like Monjo and Jorsalle before entering Sagarmatha National Park. A steep ascent leads us to the bustling mountain town of Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the Khumbu region.
- Elevation: 2,610m to 3,440m / 11,286ft
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Distance: 10–11km
A rest day is vital for acclimatization. We'll take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. On the way back, we'll visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant markets and bakeries of Namche.
- Elevation: 3,440m
- Day Hike Elevation: Everest View Hotel at 3,880m / 12,729ft
- Duration: 3–4 hours
We follow a scenic trail with stunning mountain views and descend to the Dudh Koshi River before climbing through rhododendron forests to the spiritual center of the Khumbu region—Tengboche. The village is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, offering a dramatic backdrop of Ama Dablam.
- Elevation: 3,440m to 3,860m / 12,664ft
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Distance: 9km
Descending through beautiful forests, we cross the Imja River and pass through the villages of Pangboche and Shomare. The landscape transitions into alpine terrain as we make our way to Dingboche, known for its stone-walled farmlands and views of Island Peak and Ama Dablam.
- Elevation: 3,860m to 4,410m / 14,469ft
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Distance: 10–11km
Another rest and acclimatization day. We hike up to Nangkartshang Peak, offering fantastic views of Makalu, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. This hike helps our bodies adapt to the altitude and prepares us for higher elevations.
- Elevation: 4,410m
- Day Hike Elevation: Nangkartshang Peak (5,100m / 16,732ft)
- Duration: 4–5 hours
Today’s trail continues along the glacial moraine and passes the memorial area at Thukla dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest. The trek ascends to Lobuche, where you'll feel the high altitude and witness dramatic alpine landscapes.
- Elevation: 4,410m to 4,940m / 16,207ft
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Distance: 8–9km
This is one of the most exciting days of the trek. After a short but challenging hike to Gorakshep, we continue to Everest Base Camp, walking along the Khumbu Glacier. Stand at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, surrounded by icefalls, rock formations, and prayer flags.
- Elevation: Lobuche (4,940m) to Gorekshep (5,164m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft)
- Duration: 7–8 hours
- Distance: 12km
We start before dawn to reach Kalapatthar (5,545m), the best viewpoint for sunrise over Everest. After capturing the magical golden hues on the Himalayas, we descend back to Gorakshep, then continue down to Dzongla, a quiet village preparing us for the Cho-La Pass.
- Elevation: 5,545m to 4,830m / 15,846ft
- Duration: 7–8 hours
A challenging day awaits as we cross the high-altitude Cho-La Pass (5,420m). The climb involves steep ascents over rocky and icy terrain, but the stunning views from the top make the effort worthwhile. After crossing the pass, we descend carefully to Thaknak, a small settlement.
- Elevation: 4,830m to 4,700m via Cho-La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft)
- Duration: 7–8 hours
We trek alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier to reach the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo. After lunch, we ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. Return to Gokyo for a restful night beside the tranquil lake.
- Elevation: 4,700m to 4,790m
- Duration: 6–7 hours
The trail descends along the Dudh Koshi valley and passes through lush alpine pastures and stone villages. As we ascend to Mongla Hill, we’re rewarded with magnificent views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku.
- Elevation: 4,790m to 3,975m
- Duration: 5–6 hours
We retrace our steps back toward lower elevations, trekking past Namche Bazaar and into the quiet village of Jorsalle, located near the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park.
- Elevation: 3,975m to 2,740m
- Duration: 6–7 hours
Our final trekking day follows the familiar route along the Dudh Koshi River. We climb the final stretch to Lukla, where we’ll celebrate the completion of our epic journey with the trekking team.
- Elevation: 2,740m to 2,840m
- Duration: 6–7 hours
After an early morning flight to Ramechhap and a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, we transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax, shop, or explore the city. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by Summit Travels.
- Flight Duration: 20–25 minutes
- Drive Duration: 4–5 hours to Kathmandu
Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. We hope you leave with cherished memories of your Himalayan adventure.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Included
- Airport Transfers: All airport pick-up and drop-off services in a private vehicle.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights in a 3-star hotel on a bed & breakfast basis.
- Domestic Flights: Round-trip flights (Ramechhap–Lukla–Ramechhap) including guide flights.
- Ground Transportation: Sharing transportation to/from Ramechhap for Lukla flight.
- Teahouse Accommodation: Twin-sharing teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek as per itinerary.
- Meals during Trek: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout the trek.
- Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide
- One assistant guide for groups of 4 or more
- One porter for every two trekkers
- Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fee
- Drinking Water: Safe purified water (iodine tablets).
- Duffel Bag: Complimentary duffel bag for use during the trek (return after trek).
- First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies carried by your guide.
- Welcome dinner with cultural performance
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- Documentation & Logistics: All necessary paperwork, taxes, and government charges.
Cost Excluded
- Nepal Visa Fee: Payable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport.
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal.
- Travel Insurance: Compulsory – must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
- Phone calls, Wi-Fi, and internet access
- Laundry, bar bills, soft & alcoholic drinks
- Snacks, souvenirs, and toiletries
- Hot Showers & Charging: May incur extra charges at teahouses.
- Tips and Gratuities: For trekking guide, assistant guide, porter, and drivers (recommended but not mandatory).
- Excess Baggage Fees: Domestic flights allow 15kg (10kg checked + 5kg hand carry); extra charges apply beyond this.
- Extra Services:
- Additional porter (if required)
- Helicopter evacuation (if needed)
- Extended stays or services not mentioned in “What’s Included”
FAQs
The Cho-La Pass Trek is a challenging and scenic route that connects Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Valley via the Cho-La Pass (5,420m). It’s popular for its dramatic views, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes.
This trek is strenuous, especially the Cho-La Pass section. It involves steep ascents, potential icy trails, and long walking hours. Prior high-altitude experience is highly beneficial.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the best weather—clear skies, good visibility, and safer trail conditions.
The highest point is Cho-La Pass at 5,420 meters, followed by Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters and Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters.
No, it’s a trekking pass, but it may be covered in snow or ice. In such cases, microspikes/crampons and trekking poles are recommended.
Not recommended for complete beginners. It’s suitable for those with good physical fitness and prior trekking experience at altitude.
Sagarmatha National Park Permit
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Permit
TIMS Card (if required at the time)
Teahouses provide basic rooms and hearty meals including dal bhat, noodles, soups, eggs, bread, and tea. Expect shared bathrooms and limited heating.






