The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is a fascinating and adventurous journey that offers a more technically advanced and challenging experience compared to some other treks in the region. This trek not only covers the iconic sights like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Gorak Shep, and Everest Base Camp but also includes a visit to the stunning Gokyo Lakes by crossing the high-altitude Cho La Pass (5,330m).
The trek features a mix of long days, ranging from 5 to 9 hours, and takes you through diverse landscapes, including rhododendron and pine forests, high pasturelands, past chortens, and along the Ngozumpa Glacier to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes. A highlight is the steep climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, providing both scenic beauty and acclimatization for the challenging day ahead.
To cross the Cho La Pass and avoid harsh winds, trekkers start their day exceptionally early, facing altitudes of over 5,300m and even traversing icy terrain, making it a truly memorable accomplishment. The journey continues to Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp, and Kalapatthar, where you can capture stunning photographs of your achievements and the incredible surroundings.
This trek stands out due to its circular and less-traveled route, offering a serene and unspoiled connection with nature. Beginning from Lukla and passing through Namche Bazaar, the trail diverges towards Dole and Machhermo before reaching the Gokyo Lakes. Along the way, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Khumbila, Cho Oyu, and more.
The path to Gokyo Lakes is marked by five partially frozen lakes, graced by golden Brahminy ducks. Gokyo Valley itself boasts stunning views, best enjoyed with an acclimatization day. The journey continues to Thangnak, crossing rocky and uneven terrain, the Ngozumpa Glacier, and yak pastures, before reaching Cho La Pass, connecting the Gokyo region with the Everest Base Camp route.
From Dzongla, the trail leads to Lobuche, rejoining the main Everest Base Camp route and passing the Khumbu Glacier. You’ll encounter a memorial dedicated to those who faced the challenges of this harsh terrain. Finally, on the eleventh day, you’ll reach Everest Base Camp, a significant achievement that changes you, both physically and mentally. You’ll spend time there, savoring the moments before descending to Gorak Shep, with a chance to witness Mt. Everest again at Kala Patthar.
The scenery at Kala Patthar is surreal, offering a perfect backdrop for photography. Afterward, you’ll descend to Gorak Shep, have breakfast, and head to Pheriche, enjoying a relatively easier path as you lose elevation. Pheriche provides a comfortable resting place for the night.
The trek continues to Namche Bazaar, offering one last opportunity to admire the beauty of Mt. Everest. On the fourteenth day, you’ll hike to Lukla through the Dudh Koshi River Valley, crossing suspension bridges and high-altitude forests. Your journey concludes in Lukla, marking the end of your remarkable adventure in the Khumbu region.
Embark on a challenging adventure through varied terrain, from rocky paths to icy sections, with trekking days spanning from 5 to 9 hours, demanding physical stamina. Marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Khumbu region, including lush rhododendron and pine forests, high pasturelands, and the majestic Ngozumpa Glacier. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, known for their clear turquoise waters and the chance to spot golden Brahminy ducks. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. Prepare for the challenging ascent of Cho La Pass (5,330m), beginning early to avoid harsh winds and navigating icy sections. Achieve a remarkable milestone by reaching Everest Base Camp, requiring both physical and mental determination. Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Mt. Everest and the Himalayan peaks from Kala Patthar. Capture surreal landscapes and memorable moments with your camera. Experience varied accommodations in basic lodges and teahouses along the route, along with the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. Prioritize acclimatization with stops in Namche Bazaar, Gokyo Valley, and other points to adapt to high altitudes. Enjoy the serenity of less-traveled paths, fostering a deeper connection with nature. This circular trek begins and ends in Lukla, eliminating the need to retrace your steps. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack suitable clothing layers. Expect personal growth as you conquer challenging terrain and achieve significant milestones, cultivating determination and ambition. Finally, savor the last views of Mt. Everest as you return to Lukla, concluding your remarkable journey in the Khumbu region.
The day before our trekking expedition begins, we’ll gather for a memorable welcome dinner. It’s a perfect occasion for us to connect and become acquainted with one another before we set off on our exciting adventure. This dinner also provides a valuable opportunity for you to approach your guide with any final questions or concerns you may have.
Our adventure begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and a seemingly impossible airstrip below. Rest assured, the experienced pilots make this journey look effortless, having completed it countless times.
Upon arrival in Lukla, our trek team will gather your belongings, and you can savor a cup of hot tea to kickstart your Himalayan experience. With excitement in the air, we set off on our trek towards Phakding, a charming village nestled at an altitude of 2,650m (8,562ft). This relatively short trek on our first day serves two purposes: it eases us into the trekking routine, and it allows for crucial acclimatization.
Our trail leads us through the picturesque Chaurikharka Village, and we gradually descend to the banks of the Dudhkoshi River. As we meander along the river’s edge, we’ll arrive at Phakding, our welcoming haven for the night and the beginning of our remarkable journey to Everest Base Camp. With some extra time on hand, we may explore the enchanting Rimishung Monastery, adding a touch of cultural immersion to our Himalayan experience.
Today, we’ll keep heading north alongside the Dudh Koshi River, and this path will treat us to incredible views of snow-capped mountains all around. We’ll need to cross a few suspension bridges, and one of them is super famous – it’s called the Hillary Suspension Bridge.
As we move forward, we’ll enter the Sagarmatha National Park. Here, we’ll register our permits and start climbing through a dense forest. Along the way, we’ll catch our first glimpses of Mount Everest, which is very exciting! But we’ll keep trekking until we finally reach Namche Bazaar.
On this day, we’ll also need to walk over some more suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. If you’ve never been on one before (except the one from yesterday), it might feel a bit scary at first, but don’t worry, you’ll get used to it.
When we arrive in Namche, you’ll see why this place is so important for climbers and trekkers. It’s a lively and bustling town, and it’s a hub for many mountain adventurers!
Today is our first full day dedicated to acclimatization, and there are plenty of things to do in Namche Bazaar. This town has lots of cozy cafes, restaurants, and hotels with Wi-Fi, as well as shops selling souvenirs and gear.
You have several options for activities: you can visit the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, explore traditional Sherpa villages, check out the Hillary School, visit yak farms, or explore Buddhist monasteries. Remember, acclimatization doesn’t mean just sitting around! The best way to help your body adjust to the high altitude is to stay active.
So, why not explore some of the beautiful places nearby? Khumjung village is famous for its ancient monastery, which was restored after the 2015 earthquake, and its connection to Sir Edmund Hillary. Sir Edmund also played a big role in setting up the Khunde Hospital and Khumjung School, showing his appreciation to the Sherpa people in this area.
And, of course, you came here to see Mount Everest! You can get an amazing view of Everest from the Everest View Hotel. It’s a nice hike to the hotel, and once you’re there, you can enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the spectacular view of Everest from their terrace. So, make the most of your day and explore these incredible sights!
Today, after a hearty breakfast, we start our hike. We’ll climb up the Dudh Koshi Valley, and then we’ll go down into forests filled with tall pine trees and colorful rhododendron flowers.
Along the way, you’ll see lots of Buddhist stupas and beautiful waterfalls. Plus, you’ll be amazed by the views of mountains like Thamserku, Everest, and Ama Dablam – they’re really impressive!
When we come to a fork in the trail, we’ll turn left. This is where our path takes a different route from the classic Everest Base Camp trek. The classic trek goes towards Tengboche, but we’re headed to Dole.
The trail to Dole is a bit rocky, and there are some ups and downs. After about two hours of walking, we’ll reach a place called Mong La Pass (3,957m / 12,982ft). From here, you can get some incredible views of mountains like Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812m / 22,349ft) and Mt. Khumbila (5,761m / 18,901ft).
As we keep going, our path takes us downhill through more forests with pine and rhododendron trees. We’ll also pass by a riverside village called Phortse Tenga. But we won’t stop there; we’ll keep moving until we reach Dole, where we’ll spend the night.
On this day, we leave behind the village of Dole (4,200m / 13,270ft) and continue our ascent to higher altitudes. Our path takes us through picturesque meadows that serve as grazing grounds for yaks. Alongside, you’ll notice numerous shrines and colorful prayer flags, adding a touch of spirituality to the landscape.
During the summer months, these meadows are lush and green, with yaks peacefully grazing. However, in the winter, the region turns barren, and even the locals move to lower areas to escape the harsh cold.
As we look ahead, the majestic Mt. Cho Oyu, which ranks as the fifth tallest mountain in the world, comes into view. Our trail then leads us to the Lapahrma village, followed by Luja, before finally reaching our destination for the day.
This beautiful and scenic trail is marked by a steep climb that takes us through scrub juniper. As we depart from Dole, the first half-hour involves an uphill gradient, followed by a more gradual incline for the rest of the journey.
The Dudh Koshi River flows far below, and as we hike towards the cozy teahouse settlement of Machhermo (4,470m / 14,450ft), the trail leads us to a ridge above the village. Here, we are treated to stunning views of Thamserku, an awe-inspiring mountain. Today’s trek will last around 5-6 hours.
Today is dedicated to exploring the stunning Gokyo Lakes. After about an hour of trekking, we will cross elevated grazing lands and reach Phanga. Here, you can see memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives during landslides in the region.
As we continue our journey, the paths become narrower, leading us to the outlet of the first Gokyo Lake, the smallest among the five major Gokyo lakes. A short walk from there brings us to Gokyo village, one of the highest settlements in Nepal. In the heart of the Gokyo Valley, you’ll encounter an uphill trail that leads to the famous Gokyo Ri viewpoint. This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
On the seventh day, we have a well-deserved rest day in Gokyo to acclimatize to the high altitude. During this day, we will explore the breathtaking Gokyo Valley. One of the highlights of the day is our visit to the renowned Gokyo Ri viewpoint, which stands at an impressive altitude of 5,400 meters (17,814 feet).
From the summit of Gokyo Ri, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of four of the world’s six highest mountains: Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m). This viewpoint offers a unique perspective on these towering peaks, making it a must-visit destination.
Additionally, we’ll have the opportunity to explore the other mesmerizing Gokyo Lakes, adding to the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. This day of acclimatization ensures that we are well-prepared for the higher altitudes to come in our journey.
Having acclimatized for a day in the beautiful Gokyo village (4,790m / 15,584ft), we continue our trek with Thangnak as our destination. Along the way, we’ll encounter the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The trail itself has its share of ups and downs, but it’s a relatively shorter trek, and you won’t be gaining any significant altitude.
Thangnak village is nestled alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier in a tranquil setting. It’s strategically located, making it an ideal stop for trekkers planning to cross the challenging Cho-La Pass (5,330m). A brief hike from here takes us to the fourth Gokyo Lake, or more precisely, to a viewpoint above the lake.
As we continue trekking, we’ll traverse glacier and rocky terrain until we reach Thangnak. This village has only a handful of teahouses, and it serves as the base for everyone gearing up to conquer the Cho-La Pass on the following day. Today’s trek will last approximately 5 hours.
Today is a challenging day as we depart from Thangnak (4,700m / 15,400ft) and embark on a hike over rocky trails and glacial moraines to reach the summit of the formidable Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,783ft). We’ll start our journey in the very early morning hours.
After a couple of hours of strenuous trekking, we’ll conquer the Cho La Pass, which rewards us with breathtaking vistas of Cho La Lake and the imposing Mt. Cholatse (6,440m).
As we descend from the pass, the trail can become icy and slippery, so we must proceed with caution. Despite the challenges, the scenery along this route is truly delightful.
After approximately seven hours of trekking, we’ll reach our destination for the day, Dzongla (4,855m / 15,930ft). It’s a long and demanding day, so an early start, around 3 am, is essential to tackle the Cho La Pass. This pass serves as a crucial link between the main Everest Base Camp trail and the Gokyo region. Crampons are necessary for parts of this pass, especially when navigating the glacier.
We’ll wrap up this tough but rewarding day at Cho Dzongla village, where we can finally rest and enjoy a hearty dinner. The stunning views along this route more than make up for the challenges.
On the tenth day of our journey, we bid farewell to Dzongla and commence our trek. We’ll follow the moraine, descending alongside Chola Lake, and then continue our path along the Khumbu Glacier. Along the way, we’ll come across memorial statues dedicated to climbers who lost their lives in this region.
Compared to the challenges of the previous day, today’s hike to Lobuche should be more enjoyable. As we progress, we’ll be following the Imja Khola. After approximately four hours of trekking, we’ll arrive at our destination for the day – Lobuche (4,910m / 16,175ft). This marks our return to the classic Everest Base Camp trek trail.
This day is nothing short of remarkable as you’ll reach the famed Everest Base Camp. The journey kicks off in Lobuche and involves a significant elevation gain as we approach Gorak Shep. Upon reaching Gorak Shep, we’ll leave our belongings behind and make our way to the Everest Base Camp itself.
Arriving at Everest Base Camp (EBC) is a monumental achievement, a testament to your unwavering determination and consistent physical effort throughout the trek. This accomplishment will undoubtedly transform you and instill a sense of fulfillment.
The views from EBC are nothing short of breathtaking, with the expansive Khumbu Glacier spread out before you. We recommend capturing as many pictures as possible; these moments will serve as cherished mementos for the rest of your life.
After soaking in the sights and experiences at EBC, we’ll trek back to Gorak Shep for the night. Rest assured, another extraordinary day is still in store for you on this incredible journey. Today’s trek will last approximately 6-8 hours.
In the early morning hours at Gorak Shep, we’ll rise and embark on a hike to the iconic Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,555m / 18,208ft) to witness the break of dawn over the majestic Everest Mountain. The sights you’ll behold are unparalleled and truly awe-inspiring.
After spending some quality time absorbing the breathtaking views at Kala Patthar, we’ll descend to Gorak Shep for a well-deserved breakfast and some rest. Our next destination for the day is Pheriche.
As we depart from Gorak Shep, our trail leads us along the Khumbu Glacier towards Everest Base Camp, passing by numerous fluttering prayer flags along the way. This round trip to Everest Base Camp will take approximately 4 hours. We’ll return to Gorak Shep for breakfast before setting out on our journey to Pheriche, which is approximately a 4-hour trek.
In Pheriche, you’ll find the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic, which specializes in altitude sickness treatment for trekkers and climbers, as well as providing medical assistance to the local population. They also conduct educational sessions on altitude sickness and offer aid to porters in need of medical attention.
On this day, we’ll wake up in Pheriche and set our sights on Namche Bazaar as our destination. The trail will lead us through enchanting forests where we might have the chance to spot wildlife such as pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats, and more.
Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous prayer flags and chortens, and this day presents your last opportunity to catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest. As we continue our trek, we’ll eventually arrive in Namche Bazaar, where we’ll spend the night.
While this day involves a substantial amount of hiking, the descent in altitude makes the journey feel somewhat easier. You’ll also notice the temperature rising, which is a welcome change after the cooler days you’ve experienced earlier. The return of lush forests and greenery gives this part of the trail a different character compared to what you’ve encountered thus far.
Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, a comfortable hotel and a delicious dinner await you, providing a well-deserved rest after your trekking endeavors.
As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and this marks your final day on the trekking trails. After enjoying breakfast, we’ll embark on a descent along a steep trail, cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, and pass through several local villages. The majority of our trek today will take place within the Dudh Koshi River Valley and its picturesque surroundings.
Upon reaching Lukla, we’ll freshen up at our hotel and take some well-deserved time to relax. This is likely to be your last night in the Khumbu region, and it’s a moment worth celebrating. You’ve triumphed over numerous challenges, and your accomplishments are certainly cause for reflection and joy.
If all goes according to schedule, you’ll board an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. This 40-minute flight will provide a relaxing journey. During this time, you may find yourself reflecting on your incredible journey to Everest Base Camp and feeling excited about reuniting with your loved ones back home.
Once again, the flight will be spectacular, offering captivating views of mountains and farmland until you finally arrive in the city of Kathmandu. We will be there to escort you to your hotel and offer any tips or guidance you may need on how to make the most of the remainder of your day in Kathmandu.
Visitors to the Khumbu fly into the tiny airstrip at Lukla. Set at 2800m and sloping at an angle of 12 degrees, Tenzing-Hillary Airport can only accommodate tiny Twin Otter or Dornier aircraft. During the trekking season there are up to 100 flights daily to and from Kathmandu, carrying trekkers, porters, guides and cargo.
Flights to Lukla do not always take off as planned. Note that flights are regularly delayed or cancelled at short notice if there is insufficient visibility at the airstrip. If this happens at the Kathmandu end, the airline will normally find space for us on the next available flight. If aircraft are grounded at Lukla, it can lead to days of delays and rebooking. For this reason, we recommend you book your return flight home with at least three days to spare in Kathmandu.
If you’re considering embarking on the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek, the optimal seasons are spring and autumn. However, the choice of the best time may vary depending on your preferences and trekking plans, taking into account factors like altitude, weather, and personal comfort with different conditions. Each season in the Everest region has its advantages and drawbacks.
Spring (March – May):
Spring is one of the most popular seasons for trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with clear blue skies offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The temperatures are generally comfortable for trekking, but it can get chilly at higher elevations, so it’s advisable to pack warm clothing. Spring is an ideal season for most trekkers as it combines excellent weather conditions with stunning landscapes and blooming rhododendron forests, adding vibrant colors to the trekking experience.
Autumn (September – November):
Autumn is another favored season for trekking in the Everest region. Similar to spring, the weather is favorable, and the skies are clear, providing outstanding views of the mountains. The temperatures are comfortable, making it an ideal time for trekking. Autumn is often considered the best season for this trek, as it combines pleasant weather with fewer chances of rainfall or snowfall. Trekkers can enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas without the extreme cold of winter or the challenges of the monsoon season.
Monsoon Season (June – August):
The monsoon season in Nepal, from June to August, is the least recommended time for trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. Heavy rainfall can lead to floods, landslides at lower elevations, and avalanches in higher regions, making trekking hazardous. The trails become wet, muddy, and slippery, posing difficulties for trekkers. However, if you’re a keen botanist, this season can be intriguing, as the entire region bursts with lush greenery and unique flora, transforming the landscape into a verdant paradise.
Winter (December – February):
Winter in the Everest region is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, with the mercury sometimes dropping to as low as -15 degrees Celsius. This season is not recommended for novice trekkers due to the harsh conditions. Tea houses along the Gokyo-Chola Pass-Everest trail may close due to heavy snowfall, limiting accommodation options. However, if you seek solitude and a unique experience, winter can be perfect for you, as there are fewer trekkers on the trails. The pristine, snow-covered landscapes and the chance to walk in solitude offer a different perspective of the Everest region. It’s essential to check the availability of tea houses at higher altitudes and consult with locals before attempting Cho La Pass or similar challenging routes during this season.
Ultimately, the best time for your Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek depends on your preferences and priorities. Spring and autumn offer the most favorable conditions for most trekkers, while the other seasons provide unique experiences and challenges for those seeking adventure in different forms.
In the Everest Gokyo trek via Cho La Pass, where altitudes surpass 4,000 meters, ascending gradually and adhering to the recommended rest days becomes even more vital. These carefully planned breaks are crucial for acclimatization, enabling trekkers to explore and experience the Khumbu region more fully than if they were to rush directly to Base Camp. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining proper nutrition are paramount during the trek, as they further support the body’s adaptation to high altitudes. After crossing the Cho La Pass, standing at 5,420 meters, the journey continues to challenging destinations like Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp, emphasizing the “climb high, sleep low” principle and ensuring a safer and more rewarding adventure in the formidable Himalayan terrain.
We recommend you bring a container for one liter of water. In the teahouses we can buy boiled water suitable for drinking with which to fill our bottles. Another option is to refill the water from the fountains that we find along the way or from the tap of the teahouses themselves, for this we have to count on water disinfectant tablets that we can find in pharmacies.
Travel insurance is compulsory for the trek. All the trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate. The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation- including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes (up to 6,000m).
Trekking members are kindly requested to send their detailed insurance information after trek booking. In case of emergencies, we will be using the insurance policy and informational documents you sent us. It will help us arrange a quick and effective rescue operation, transfer for emergency medical help, etc. Please ensure that your insurance covers all costs incurred during mountain rescue service.
Before buying travel insurance, make sure to call the insurance company and recheck if they have heli-rescue up to 6,000m.
Wow, what a journey! Trekking with Firantes to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass was an epic adventure. The sheer beauty of the Himalayas left me breathless, and the challenge of the Cho La Pass made it all the more rewarding. The guides were not just knowledgeable but also incredibly supportive. They ensured our safety and kept our spirits high, even in the toughest moments. This trek was the adventure of a lifetime, and I’m grateful to Firantes for making it possible.
As a photographer, the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass trek was a dream come true. The landscapes were a canvas of ever-changing beauty. Sunrise over Everest and the emerald waters of Gokyo Lake were unforgettable moments. Firantes’ guides understood the needs of photographers and were patient, helping me capture the perfect shots. This trek not only enriched my portfolio but also my soul. Kudos to Firantes for making it an incredible photographic journey.
The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake trek with Firantes was a dream come true. Being surrounded by those majestic peaks was a humbling experience. The pristine beauty of Gokyo Lake was a highlight, and crossing Cho La Pass was a thrilling challenge. What sets Firantes apart is their commitment to responsible trekking. They genuinely care about the environment and the local communities. This trek was not just about reaching a destination; it was about the journey and the connections we made along the way.
It was a cultural immersion. The encounters with local Sherpa communities enriched the journey, and their warm hospitality was heartwarming. Cho La Pass was a thrilling challenge, and reaching Everest Base Camp was a dream fulfilled. Firantes’ commitment to responsible tourism and their support for local communities make them a standout trekking agency.
Trekking with Firantes was a spiritual odyssey. The Himalayas have a way of touching your soul, and this journey was no exception. The guides’ insights into local culture and their reverence for the mountains added depth to the experience. The Cho La Pass challenged me both physically and mentally, but it also brought a sense of accomplishment and enlightenment. Firantes, you created a sacred connection between nature and spirit that I will forever cherish.