Trekking For Real

Trekking For Real

Cho La Pass Trek

This trek is a spectacular and adventurous journey to Everest Base Camp via the magnificent Cho La Pass and the beautiful Gokyo Valley. It is an excellent choice for trekkers who are looking for more than the classic Everest Base Camp route. Instead of following the regular trail, this itinerary combines remote mountain passes, turquoise glacial lakes, and breathtaking Himalayan panoramas, offering a richer and more diverse trekking experience.

The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and gradually ascends through traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, the vibrant gateway to the Everest region. Along the way, trekkers walk through peaceful rhododendron and pine forests, cross high suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, and experience the unique culture, monasteries, and warm hospitality of the Sherpa community.

One of the major highlights of this trek is the series of stunning Gokyo Lakes, a group of sacred turquoise lakes surrounded by snow-covered peaks. From Gokyo Ri, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of some of the world’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The ascent to Cho La Pass (5,420 m) is another thrilling section of the journey. Crossing this high mountain pass involves walking over rocky terrain and glacier sections, which adds a sense of adventure and achievement.

After crossing the pass, the trail joins the classic route toward Everest Base Camp. Standing at the base of the world’s highest mountain is an unforgettable moment for every trekker. The hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) offers the most spectacular close-up view of Mount Everest, especially during sunrise when the golden light reflects on the snowy peaks.

Compared to the standard Everest Base Camp trek, this route is more scenic, less crowded in the Gokyo section, and slightly more demanding due to the high-altitude pass. However, it is highly rewarding for physically fit trekkers who seek both natural beauty and cultural exploration. With proper acclimatisation, good preparation, and a positive attitude, this trek becomes a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines challenge, serenity, and unforgettable Himalayan landscapes.

Day 01 :
Kathmandu sightseeing and preparation
  • Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
  • Visit places like:
    • Pashupatinath Temple
    • Boudhanath Stupa
    • Swayambhunath
  • Trek briefing and gear preparation.
Day 02 :
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla; trek to Phakding
  • Flight Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Trek Distance: 8 km
  • Walking Hours: 3–4 hours

Scenic mountain flight to Lukla. Trek along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding.

Day 03 :
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Duration: 5–6 hours

Enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. Cross suspension bridges and climb steeply to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital.

Day 04 :
Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar

Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m).

Visit Khumjung village.

First clear view of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.

Day 05 :
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole via Mong La Pass

Duration: 6–7 hours

Scenic trail via Mong La Pass.

Views of Thamserku and Kangtega.

Day 06 :
Trek from Dole to Machhermo

Duration: 4–5 hours
Gradual climb with increasing alpine landscape. Reach Machhermo.

Day 07 :
Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo; explore Gokyo Lakes
  • Duration: 4–5 hours

Pass the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes and reach Gokyo village near the third lake (Dudh Pokhari).

Day 08 :
Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak

Duration: 3–4 hours
Walk along Ngozumpa Glacier to Thangnak.

Day 09 :
Trek from Thangnak via Chola Pass to Dzongla
  • Duration: 7–9 hours
  • Most challenging day.

Cross the icy Cho La Pass and descend to Dzongla

Day 10 :
Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche

Duration: 4–5 hours
Join main EBC trail and reach Lobuche.

Day 11 :
Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep and excursion to Everest Base Camp
  • Duration: 7–8 hours

Reach Gorakshep, then hike to Everest Base Camp. Close views of Khumbu Icefall.

Day 12 :
Hike to Kalapatthar and trek to Pheriche

Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (best Everest sunrise view).

Descend to Pheriche.

Day 13 :
Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

Duration: 6–7 hours
Descend via Pangboche and Tengboche.

Day 14 :
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
  • Duration: 6–7 hours
    Final trekking day back to Lukla.
Day 15 :
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
  • Scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu.
  • Free time for shopping or rest.
Day 16 :
International flight

Transfer to airport for your onward flight.

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services
  • Round-trip flight fare (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu) for guest and guide
  • Three meals per day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), including tea or coffee
  • Accommodation throughout the trekking period
  • Three nights’ accommodation in a standard hotel in Kathmandu on a BB (Bed & Breakfast) basi
  • Experienced guide (language provided as per guest request)
  • All government and local taxes
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry fees
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
  • First aid kit for groups of 6 or more participants
  • Guide and porter salaries
  • Insurance for all field staff during the trek
  • Additional services provided as per guest request

Cost Excludes

  • Personal expenses and trekking equipment
  • Travel and emergency rescue insurance
  • Hot shower charges
  • Flight delays/cancellations due to weather (extra cost for alternatives)
  • Tips for staff

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Cho La Pass Trek
From $2099
/ Adult