Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek

Duration: 22 Days   |   1 Reviews

The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the greatest treks in all the Himalaya! This life-changing trekking adventure takes you to the eye-popping Gokyo Lakes, over the thrilling Cho La Pass (5420 meters), and to the legendary Everest Base Camp. All the while, take the opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of the mountain-dwelling Sherpa ethnic group. Throughout your memorable days on the trail, you will also be exposed to some awesome flora and fauna of the Himalayas.

The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek starts by flying into Lukla and landing at the world’s most dangerous airport. Before setting foot on the trail, the adventure has begun! Stroll up to Namche Bazaar, an intersecting point for trekkers on different legs of their Everest journeys. The little mountain town has cafes, trekker gear shops, and more. We depart from the Everest Base Camp Trek route and head towards Gokyo Lakes. 

Gokyo Lakes are some of the most majestic alpine lakes known to man! Spend a day and a half enjoying their sacred presence. You will feel like you are in the midst of something special. Hike up to Gokyo Ri (5357 meters) for jaw-dropping views of the lakes down below, as well as several of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and more. 

From Gokyo Lakes, the fun continues. We trek to Everest Base Camp, a mandatory stop for most trekkers in the area. The following day, we reach Kala Patthar (5545 meters), the highest point on our trek, from where the peak of Everest lies right before your eyes. 

What an adventure the Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is!! From Kala Patthar, it’s a lovely descent base to the trailhead at Lukla. Celebrate an amazing trek back in Kathmandu. 

The Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is an awesome alternative to the Three Passes Trek. You still have a visit to the magical Gokyo Lakes and the historical Everest Base Camp, but instead of three passes, you only traverse one: the Cho La Pass (5420 meters).

Book the Gokyo Cho La Pass Everest Base Camp Trek all throughout the year. Though the trek is available anytime, certain seasons provide the best weather. In the springtime (March to May), the rhododendrons are blooming and scenery is lush. During autumn (September to November), skies are clearest and mountain views are best. Summer (rainy season) and winter do not provide the best trekking conditions, but on the other hand, you can enjoy more solitude on the trail. If you have any questions, please contact us!

Trip Highlights

  • Cross the Cho La Pass (5420 meters) – a real mountain wilderness experience
  • Trek up to Everest Base Camp (5364 meters) and feel like you are part of history
  • Stand next to the unbelievably turquoise Gokyo Lakes
  • Experience the Sherpa culture, traditions, and daily lifestyle
  • Climb Gokyo Ri (5357 meters) for spectacular views of the world’s highest peaks

 

Day to Day Itinerary

  • Day 01:Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
  • Day 02:Take care of permit formalities and Kathmandu sightseeing.
  • Day 03:Fly to Lukla (2840 Meters) and trek to Phakding.
  • Day 04:Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 Meters).
  • Day 05:Climb to Everest Viewpoint Hotel for view of Himalayas and back to Namche Bazaar.
  • Day 06:Trek from Namche to Dole (4200m).
  • Day 07:Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4410m).
  • Day 08:Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4790m).
  • Day 09:Early morning climb up to Gokyo Ri and back to Gokyo.
  • Day 10:Trek from Gokyo to Tagnag (4700m).
  • Day 11:Trek to Dzongla (4830m) via Cho La Pass (5420m).
  • Day 12:Trek from Dzongla (4830m) to Lobuche (4940m).
  • Day 13:Trek to Gorakshep (5160m), then up to Everest Base Camp (5340m), back to Gorakshep.
  • Day 14:Early morning climb to Kala Patthar for sunrise, then down to Pheriche.
  • Day 15:Trek from Pheriche to Kyangjuma.
  • Day 16:Trek from Kyangjuma to Monjo (2840m).
  • Day 17:Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2860m).
  • Day 18:Fly back to Kathmandu.
  • Day 19:Relax Day in Kathmandu.
  • Day 20:Departure from Nepal.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01:Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel. A representative of Roar Himalaya Adventure heartily welcomes you at Tribhuvan International Airport and takes you to your hotel. Take a rest or wander around the winding streets of Kathmandu. In the evening, we give you the lowdown on your upcoming trek. Overnight at hotel on B&B basis.
  • Day 02:Take care of permit formalities and Kathmandu sightseeing.We guide you through the process of getting permits quickly and without any stress. Then, we take you to see some of Kathmandu’s most famous and beloved heritage sights. Overnight in hotel on B&B basis.
  • Day 03:Fly to Lukla (2840 Meters) and trek to Phakding.Hop on a flight to Lukla from the Kathmandu domestic airport and start the adventure. During the flight, we see some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. From Lukla, we begin the foothill journey. After hiking through tranquil Sherpa villages, their cultivated fields, and Buddhist chhortens and mani walls, we are confronted with an awesome view of Kusum Kanguru as we arrive in Phakding. Overnight in a teahouse lodge.
  • Day 04:Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 Meters).A delicious breakfast gives us energy to begin the hike to Namche Bazaar. The green trail leads us across several suspension bridges, while enjoying marvelous views of Thamserku and flowing rivers. Follow along the Dudh Koshi River to reach Monjo, where we officially enter Sagarmatha National Park. Keep hiking along the Dudh Koshi and climb with it as it stretches into higher altitude. Traverse the highest suspension bridge in the Everest region right before catching the first glimpse of Mount Everest. Trek a little further to reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 05:Climb to Everest Viewpoint Hotel for view of Himalayas and back to Namche Bazaar.Today is set aside for exploration of the trade and tourism hub of the Solukhumbu region. Namche Bazaar is a bustling little town, with cafes, guest houses, and trekking gear shops. We can hike up to Everest View Hotel, where there are spectacular views of the Himalayas. Have a cup of tea at the world’s highest 5-star hotel and then head back to Namche for the night. There are lots of other alternative day hikes in the area, so if you have any preference let us know! Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 06:Trek from Namche to Dole (4200m).We begin by descending roughly 300 meters on a series of switchback trails to the Dudh Kosi River. Crossing the Phortse Bridge, we ascend steeply above the valley, enjoying excellent views of Kantega, Thamserku and Ama Dablam. About an hour’s walk from Phortse Bridge, we have our first views Cho Oyu (8153m) towering over the valley. Now, we are above tree line and it is a short distance to Dole, where we spend the night. After lunch, we can explore the upper Dole Valley, taking a high ridge above the lodge to enjoy incredible views of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang (7922m) to the north, and Taweche (6542m) and Cholatse (6440m) to the east. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 07:Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4410m).Today, we trek from Dole to Machhermo, with nice mountain views during the entire day. The landscape is so desolate and lifeless that it is astonishing. The trail is slightly uphill to Machhermo. In the afternoon, we can climb up a bit past Machhermo for efficient acclimatization. Overnight at teahouse lodge.
  • Day 08:Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4790m).Today, we trek up to the majestic Gokyo Lake. The trail is pleasant and relatively easy, though there is the obstacle of high altitude. We start by climbing a ridge for an exceptional view of the valley to Kangtaiga, as well as Cho Oyu (8153m). The valley opens as the trail passes through Phangkha. We head to a riverbank before climbing onto the moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier on a steep incline. The trail follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho, become in awe by the stark turquoise waters. It’s a little further to reach the third lake, which lies next to Gokyo village. The entire are is unreal. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 09:Early morning climb up to Gokyo Ri and back to Gokyo.Today is a laidback, but exciting day in Gokyo village. We get to see one of the very best views in the Everest region. It is best to climb to Gokyo Ri (Peak) early in the morning to watch the sun rise. See the glowing sun strike the world’s tallest peaks. Come back and spend the rest of the day simply existing in the beauty of Gokyo Lakes. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 10:Trek from Gokyo to Tagnag (4700m).Ascend a little bit from Gokyo Lakes and hike along a glacier for about 45 minutes as it goes down the valley to Tagnag, our starting point for the Cho La Pass. Throughout the day, you will be in awe at the sheer mountain magnificence. Enjoy the barren mountain scenery. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 11:Trek to Dzongla (4830m) via Cho La Pass (5420m).Today is a tough one, but full of excitement. We get an early start and ascend the often-slippery glacier. Don’t worry though, we have all the proper equipment to keep you safe. As we gain altitude, the views become increasingly captivating. Trek along the side of a frozen lake as we near the top of the pass, which is decorated with colorful prayer flags. Dominating our view is the unique Ama Dablam peak, a marvelous sight. From here, we hike down to Dzongla, where more mountain views await. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 12:Trek from Dzongla (4830m) to Lobuche (4940m).Today’s trail is relatively easy, which is a nice treat after yesterday’s pass. The easy ups and downs give us lots of time to admire the beautiful scenery. After several hours, we reach Lobuche which offers superb views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Nuptse, and more. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 13:Trek to Gorakshep (5160m), then up to Everest Base Camp (5340m), back to Gorakshep.The excitement continues! You may just remember this day for the rest of your life. Have an early breakfast and start hiking on the rocky trail to Gorakshep. We leave our belongings at our guest house and head up to Everest Base Camp with some water and snacks. We eventually arrive to base camp, which is located on the Khumbu Glacier. From here, you cannot see Everest, but you can see the Khumbu Icefall, Mt. Khumbutse and Pumori. The stunning view of Everest comes the following day. Take some photos and savor the precious moments before descending back to Gorakshep. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 14:Early morning climb to Kala Patthar for sunrise, then down to Pheriche.Another memorable day lies ahead. Kala Patthar, the highest point on our trek, provides intimate views of Mount Everest and is considered one of the best overall views in the area. Feast your eyes on the peak of Mount Everest and several more of the highest peaks in the world. Then, descend to Gorakshep for breakfast and continue down to Pheriche. Overnight at teahouse lodge.
  • Day 15:Trek from Pheriche to Kyangjuma.After a restful sleep in Pheriche and a tasty breakfast, we start on our way. About an hour later, we arrive on the trail that we’ve walked already. Today is mostly a downhill journey. Before that, though, we stop at Tengboche Monastery and enjoy the nice views and peaceful environment. Then, keep going to Kyangjuma. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 16:Trek from Kyangjuma to Monjo (2840m).Leaving Kyangjuma, we pass by Namche Bazaar one last time. Buy some trinkets or have a snack before continuing down to Monjo via the Dudh Koshi River, the entrance of the Everest region. It’s a lovely village with awesome people. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 17:Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2860m).Leaving Monjo, we descend along the Dudh Koshi River, eventually crossing it via a high suspension bridge. Then, take a short, easy, level walk to Benkar. After Benkar, reach Phakding, from where the trail descends. Then, a short, steep ascent leads you past a few Buddhist chhortens and mani walls at Ghat village. After several more suspension bridges, and verdant forests, arrive to Lukla. Overnight in teahouse lodge.
  • Day 18:Fly back to Kathmandu.It is time to say goodbye to the Everest region. Rather, it is a “see you later.” It is hard not to want to come back again after trekking in the Everest region of Nepal. The morning flight takes us to Kathmandu, arriving in the morning. Spend the rest of the day exploring, buying some souvenirs, or resting. Overnight in hotel on B&B basis.
  • Day 19:Relax Day in Kathmandu.Spend the day hanging out, wandering around Thamel, sightseeing, eating, and simply enjoying your last day in Kathmandu! We hope you enjoyed the journey and we look forward to hopefully seeing you again! Overnight in hotel on B&B basis.
  • Day 20:Departure from Nepal.Before your flight, we take you to the airport to say farewell. We hope you had a blast with us and we appreciate you choosing Roar Himalaya Adventure as your trekking guide! Looking forward to seeing you again.

Cost Includes:

  • Airport transfers before and after trek
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (on Bed & Breakfast basis)
  • Domestic Airfare
  • Transportation to and from the trailhead as per itinerary
  • Accommodation at local teahouse lodges during the trek
  • All necessary permits
  • Government-authorized, experienced guide and porters
  • Insurance and wage for guide and porters
  • Roar Himalaya Duffle Bag
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee) during the trek
  • First Aid Kit
  • Service charge and government taxes

 

Cost Excludes:

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Insurance (must cover rescue evacuation in case of emergency)
  • Meals and drinks in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)
  • Personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Sightseeing entrance fees
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
     
Rated 5/5 based on 1 reviews
  • Perfect Everest Trek Arrangement
    Australia

    Perfect Everest Trek Arrangement

    Rating:

    I spent very memorable days in the Everest region in Nepal. I used to dream to see this highest peak of the world and now I arrested it in my camera. My guide arranged everything and helped me a lot. He did not let me feel tired and boring. I have read about the Manaslu region and willing to go there with this company again. I like to make a strong recommendation.

Trip Fact

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Grade: Technical Challenging
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transportation: Aeroplane / Tourist Bus
  • Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse/Lodge
  • Max Elevation: 5545 meters