Overview

Embark on one of the world’s most spectacular Himalayan adventures with the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass—a thrilling 16-day journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, Sherpa culture, high-altitude lakes, and iconic viewpoints of Everest. This bucket-list route takes you through the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, the legendary Lukla airport, the bustling mountain hub of Namche Bazaar, and the serene turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes.

Cross the dramatic Cho La Pass at 5,420 m, trek across the Khumbu Glacier, and stand triumphantly at Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). Witness sunrise from Kalapatthar (5,545 m), offering the closest and most mesmerizing view of Mount Everest.

This trek is ideal for trekkers seeking a more adventurous, scenic, and rewarding alternative to the classic EBC route. With towering snow peaks, ancient monasteries, glacier valleys, and pristine alpine lakes, this journey delivers one of the most unforgettable trekking experiences on earth.

Tour Highlights - Chola Pass Trek

Trek Duration: 16 days including arrival & departure
Highest Altitude: 5,545 m at Kalapatthar
Difficulty Level: Challenging (suitable for experienced trekkers)
Best Season: March–May & September–November
Major Highlights: Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar
Starting Point: Lukla (flight from Kathmandu)
Total Trek Distance: Approx. 130–140 km (round trip)
Temperature Range: -10°C to -20°C (higher altitudes in winter)
Famous Viewpoints: Gokyo Ri, Kalapatthar, Cho La Pass Ridge
Unique Feature: Combines EBC + Gokyo Lakes + Cho La Pass in one comprehensive trek

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a short briefing about your trek, route, weather, and safety guidelines.
Spend the evening exploring Thamel’s cafes, markets, and trekking stores.

Overnight: Kathmandu hotel

Day 02 :

Kathmandu → Lukla (Flight) → Trek to Phakding (2,651 m / 8,697 ft) – 3 hrs

Take a thrilling morning flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. After meeting your trek crew, begin your first trekking day with an easy walk along the Dudh Koshi River crossing suspension bridges and charming Sherpa villages.

Highlights:

Scenic flight to Lukla

Pass through Chheplung & Ghat villages

River-side overnight stay

Overnight: Phakding

Day 03 :

Phakding → Namche Bazaar (3,438 m / 11,279 ft)

Today’s route enters Sagarmatha National Park and includes exciting river crossings and gradual ascents. The final climb to Namche is steep but rewarding with the first glimpse of Mt. Everest (weather permitting).

Highlights:

Cross the famous Hillary suspension bridge

First Everest viewpoint

Vibrant Sherpa town with cafes, bakeries & shops

Overnight: Namche Bazaar

Day 04 :

Acclimatization Day in Namche (3,700 m / 12,139 ft)

Spend the day adjusting to the altitude. A short acclimatization hike is planned to Syangboche Airport or Everest View Hotel for spectacular panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.

Highlights:

Visit Sherpa museums

Enjoy local markets

Stunning Everest viewpoints

Overnight: Namche Bazaar

Day 05 :

Namche Bazaar → Dole (3,680 m / 12,073 ft)

The trail climbs to Mong La before descending to Phortse Tenga. After crossing the river, a final steep climb leads you to the peaceful village of Dole.

Highlights:

Rhododendron & juniper forests

Ama Dablam, Lhotse & Tengboche views

Beautiful quiet village stay

Overnight: Dole

Day 06 :

Dole → Machhermo (3,870 m / 12,696 ft)

A short and enjoyable trekking day with gentle ascents and excellent mountain views. The trail passes through Lhabarma and Luza villages before reaching Machhermo.

Highlights:

Scenic ridge walk

High alpine landscapes

Optional short acclimatization hike in the afternoon

Overnight: Machhermo

Day 07 :

Machhermo → Gokyo (4,800 m / 15,748 ft) + Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri

Walk along beautiful glacial valleys and climb the steep section near the first Gokyo Lake. Continue past the second lake to arrive at the magical third Gokyo Lake beside the village.
After lunch, hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for one of the best Everest-region sunsets.

Highlights:

Turquoise Gokyo Lakes

Everest, Lhotse, Makalu & Cho Oyu panorama

Incredible sunset from Gokyo Ri

Overnight: Gokyo

Day 08 :

Gokyo → Thagnak (5,367 m / 17,608 ft) + Morning trip to 4th Lake

Visit the beautiful 4th Gokyo Lake, a peaceful high-altitude spot surrounded by snowy ridges.
Later, trek toward Thagnak, a small settlement at the foot of Cholatse and Cho La Pass.

Highlights:

Deep blue high-altitude lake

Glacier crossings

Prepare for the Cho La Pass crossing

Overnight: Thagnak

Day 09 :

Thagnak → Cho La Pass → Dzongla (4,843 m / 15,889 ft) – 8 hrs

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days. Start early to cross the Cho La Pass (5,420 m) with steep climbs, rocky terrain, and snow (seasonal). Descend carefully to reach Dzongla.

Highlights:

Stunning glacial landscapes

Snow-covered mountain pass

Breathtaking views of Cholatse & Ama Dablam

Overnight: Dzongla (Cho Dzongla)

Day 10 :

Dzongla → Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft)

An easier day with a gentle trek to Lobuche following the Khumbu Glacier. Admire the dramatic landscapes and towering peaks.

Highlights:

Pumori, Nuptse & Lobuche East views

Walk along the glacial valley

Scenic and relaxing day

Overnight: Lobuche

Day 11 :

Lobuche → Gorakshep (5,368 m / 17,611 ft) + Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar

Trek along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep, the highest settlement of the EBC route. After lunch, ascend to Kalapatthar (5,545 m) for the best close-up view of Everest.

Highlights:

Everest, Nuptse & Pumori close views

Sunset over Everest (optional)

Highest overnight stay on the trek

Overnight: Gorakshep

Day 12 :

Gorakshep → Everest Base Camp → Pheriche (4,200 m / 13,779 ft) – 8 hrs

Start early for the legendary walk to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). Enjoy views of the Khumbu Icefall and glacier fields. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Gorakshep and continue down to Pheriche.

Highlights: