Everest Chola Pass Trek with Gokyo Lakes – 16 Days

From $ 1750 USD Per Person Inquire

Why us?

  • Fully customizable trip
  • Group Discount
  • Guaranteed Departure
  • Top-notch Service
  • Safety matters
  • Eco Tourism

Highlights

  • The magnificent view of Mt Everest from the top of Gokyo Ri 5357 m
  • The amazing and strenuous feeling while crossing Chola Pass 5420 m - one of the highest passes of the Everest region.
  • The shining 5 glacial lakes of Gokyo
  • Great satisfaction of trekking while walking on Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar
  • Walking along off the beaten trails
  • The heartbreaking feeling during Lukla flight

Overview

Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lake or Everest Chola Pass Trek offers a mesmerizing view of Gokyo Lakes along with the stunning snow-covered mountain range that includes the high mountains like Mt Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and Pumori reaching Gokyo Ri, Everest Base Camp, and Kalapathar. It belongs to the moderate-grade trek. The trek begins from Lukla and seeks acclimatization for the beginner’s trek. Basically, most of the trekkers acclimatize them in Namche Bazaar which is also known as the Gateway of Mt Everest. Meanwhile, trekkers can hike to Everest View Hotel and have breakfast enjoying the impressive scenery of the Mahalangur Himalayan Range.

Some of the exciting attractions of this trek are Gokyo Ri 5357 m, EBC, and Kalapathar. From Gokyo Ri, we will enjoy the masterpiece scenery of Mt Everest, Mt Lhotse, Cho Oyu, etc largest mountains alongside Nzongma Glacier which is the biggest glacier of the Khumbu region.

Trek Outline

Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lake leads you through the identical path of Classic Everest Base Camp Trek following the edge of Dudhkoshi River until it reaches Namche Bazaar. The ways to Gokyo and EBC separate after 2-3 hours walk onward. But the ultimate destination of each and every trail of Everest is EBC and Kalapathar.

You may be scared of flying in a tiny spooky Kathmandu to Lukla flight, but it is a must to ensure your Everest Base Camp Trek in short days. You will be going to spend much amount of time in the mountains. However, proper acclimatization is very important, while it will be done in Namche Bazaar. From Namche Bazaar, you can take short steep hiking to Syangboche village from where you can enjoy the first glimpse of the astounding view of mountains like Mt Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Thamserku, etc.

The trek goes through pine and rhododendron forests, highlander grazing lands, chortens, and the flapping prayer’s flags.

Before you cross the Chola Pass, you need to pass the Ngozumpa Glacier and hike the Gokyo Ri which is one of the main highlights of this journey. From Gokyo Ri, you get the stunning view of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu closer while it will act as acclimatization at the same time.

While crossing the Chola pass, it will feel like your lifetime achievement. In order to cross the pass, you need to be ready early morning around 4-5 am before the winds start to flow. It is most probably going to be a tough day as you will be walking on set ice which will take 9 hours approximately.

This wonderful journey continues to bring vivacious feelings to you as the trek moves toward Gorakshep, the Everest Base Camp 5364 m, and the best viewpoint of Mt Everest i.e Kalapathar 5545m.

The trek certainly challenges trekkers with its long-distance walk, but its rewarding views and achievements will mesmerize anyone.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding
Day 02: Trek to Namche
Day 03: Acclimatization day at Namche
Day 04: Trek to Dole
Day 05: Trek to Machhermo
Day 06: Trek to Gokyo
Day 07: Acclimatization day at Gokyo (Hike to Gokyo Ri 5357 m)
Day 08: Trek to Dragnag
Day 09: Trek to Dzongla via Chola Pass (5420 m)
Day 10: Trek to Lobuche
Day 11: Trek to EBC via Gorakshep
Day 12: Hike to Kalapathar and descend to Pheriche via Lobuche
Day 13: Descend to Tengboche
Day 14: Return to Namche
Day 15: Return to Lukla
Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu

Itinerary

Day 01

Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding

Day 02

Trek to Namche

Day 03

Acclimatization day at Namche

Day 04

Trek to Dole

Day 05

Trek to Machhermo

Day 06

Trek to Gokyo

Day 07

Acclimatization day at Gokyo (Hike to Gokyo Ri 5357 m)

Day 08

Trek to Dragnag

Day 09

Trek to Dzongla via Chola Pass (5420 m)

Day 10

Trek to Lobuche

Day 11

Trek to EBC via Gorakshep

Day 12

Hike to Kalapathar and descend to Pheriche via Lobuche

Day 13

Descend to Tengboche

Day 14

Return to Namche

Day 15

Return to Lukla

Day 16

Fly back to Kathmandu

Inclusions

What's included

  • International & Domestics Airport pick up and drop
  • 2 Nights Standard Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (with breakfast included)
  • An Experience English speaking guide and porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
  • All Meals and Teahouse accommodation during the trek with attach room.
  • Kathmandu to Lukla  Flight Flight Ticket (Round Trip)
  • All required trekking permits (National Park Entry Fee and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Fee)
  • Guide and porter insurance with food and accommodation
  • Basic Medical kits
  • Sleeping and duffel bag, down jacket, trekking poles (should be returned after the trek)
  • Emergency Helicopter Evacuation Service Arrangement Only (should cover by your travel insurance)
  • All required paper works and government taxes
  • Farewell dinner
  • Everest Hikes T-shirt

What's not included

  • International Flight
  • Nepal Travel Visa Fee
  • Personal Medical and Travel insurance (Should cover helicopter evacuation)
  • Guide, Porter and Driver tips
  • Personal Gears (equipment)
  • Personal bill
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
  • All other personal expense of beverages (hard and soft drinks)
  • All other things not mentioned in the inclusion.

Equipment

Recommended Trekking Gears

Clothing

  • Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking)
    • Thermal tops and bottoms (polyester or merino wool)
    • Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
  • Insulating Layers
    • Fleece jacket or pullover
    • Down jacket (for high-altitude treks)
    • Warm sweaters
  • Outer Layers (Shells)
    • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
    • Waterproof pants
  • Trekking Pants
    • Quick-dry pants
    • Convertible hiking pants (zip-off into shorts)
  • Trekking Shirts
    • Lightweight and breathable T-shirts
    • Long-sleeve shirts with UV protection
  • Headwear
    • Wide-brim hat or cap for sun protection
    • Warm beanie for cold temperatures
    • Buff or scarf for dust and wind
  • Gloves
    • Lightweight trekking gloves
    • Insulated gloves for higher altitudes
  • Socks
    • Moisture-wicking trekking socks
    • Thermal socks for colder regions
  • Footwear
    • Sturdy and waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
    • Comfortable sandals or camp shoes (for evenings/rest days)
    • Gaiters (optional, for snow or muddy trails)

Backpacks & Bags

  • Backpack
    • 40-50L capacity for multi-day treks
    • Comfortable straps and rain cover
  • Daypack
    • 20-30L for short treks or carrying essentials during the day
  • Duffel Bag
    • Used if porters are carrying your gear (for organized treks)
  • Dry Bags
    • To keep electronics and clothes dry in wet conditions

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping Bag
    • 4-season sleeping bag (rated for -10°C to -20°C for high-altitude treks)
    • Sleeping bag liner (optional, for extra warmth and hygiene)
  • Sleeping Pad (if camping)
    • Lightweight and inflatable or foam pads for comfort

Trekking Accessories

  • Trekking Poles
    • Adjustable and lightweight poles (essential for steep ascents/descents)
  • Water Bottle/Hydration System
    • Insulated bottle (to prevent freezing at high altitudes)
    • CamelBak or similar hydration reservoir
  • Water Purification
    • Water filters, purification tablets, or UV sterilizers
  • Sunglasses
    • UV protection (Category 3 or 4 for snowy conditions)
  • Headlamp
    • With spare batteries (essential for early morning or late-night treks)
  • Multi-tool or Knife
    • For various small tasks
  • First Aid Kit
    • Bandages, blister patches, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, Diamox (for altitude sickness), etc.
  • Lip Balm
    • SPF-protected to prevent chapping
  • Sunscreen
    • High SPF for UV protection at higher altitudes
  • Personal Toiletries
    • Biodegradable soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, quick-dry towel, wet wipes, and toilet paper

Optional but Useful Items

  • Camera
    • To capture the stunning scenery (extra batteries and memory cards are a must)
  • Snacks
    • Energy bars, trail mix, or chocolate for quick energy boosts
  • Power Bank/Solar Charger
    • For charging devices in remote areas
  • Books or E-Readers
    • For downtime during rest days
  • Earplugs
    • To block out noise in lodges or camps
  • Notebook/Journal
    • To record your trek experience

Clothing Packing Tips

  • Layering is key: It helps regulate your body temperature and adapt to changing weather.
  • Avoid cotton: It retains moisture and dries slowly, which can lead to discomfort or hypothermia.
  • Pack light: Only carry what is absolutely necessary to avoid unnecessary weight.

Gear Rentals in Nepal

If you're worried about carrying too much gear, trekking hubs like Kathmandu and Pokhara offer trekking equipment rentals and sales. You can find items like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles at reasonable prices. However, ensure you check the quality before renting.

FAQs

1) What is the best time to trek Everest Chola Pass with Gokyo Lakes?

March to May and October to November are the best time to trek Everest Chola Pass with Gokyo Lakes as the weather usually becomes sunny and the sky is crystal clear at that time.

2) How difficult is it to trek Everest Chola Pass with Gokyo Lakes?

It is a moderate to strenuous level trek. But no one knows who will be suffered while trekking as the trek crosses and reaches over 5000 m. Even healthy younger and fit people can get altitude sickness, whereas old people have been achieving the trek successfully. So, in order to avoid altitude sickness, you can talk to your doctor or altitude specialist. But the common cure is just to go slowly, listening to what your body is demanding and suggesting of trekking guide.

3) Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Yes definitely! No travel agency provides travel insurance for customers in Nepal. They only provide for their own staff. Keep in mind that your travel insurance must cover high altitudes. WorldNomads and Covermore are considered to be the most reliable insurance companies.

4) How safe is natural water to use as drinking water in Everest?

We don’t suggest using tap water and natural water for drinking because it is not safe. However, you can use a water purifier to make it drinkable. Mineral water is not available on the trekking route. You can find it in the teahouse but it is expensive to buy; perhaps 9-10 times expensive than Kathmandu.

5) Should I bring a crampon for the trek?

No, a crampon is not needed unless you trek in the mid-winter. The trail is good enough to walk and cross the pass.

6) Do I need a porter to trek Everest Chola Pass and Gokyo Lakes?

It is preferred if you hire a porter. It may help you double in case of any emergency and you don’t need to take the burden of heavy bags that allows you to enjoy the trip fully. In addition, it will be helpful for the local community to improve their income.

 

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