Gokyo Chola Pass Trek
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a challenging and rewarding trekking adventure that takes travelers through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Khumbu region in Nepal. This trek is a great alternative to the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek and offers stunning views of the Himalayas, serene lakes, and traditional Sherpa villages.
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and continues through the Dudh Koshi Valley, passing through villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar. After acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar, trekkers continue on to the picturesque village of Gokyo, situated next to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. The turquoise-colored lakes offer a serene contrast to the towering mountains that surround them and provide an excellent backdrop for photos.
After spending time exploring the Gokyo area and climbing Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, the trek continues towards the Chola Pass (5,420m), one of the most challenging sections of the trek. The pass is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are breathtaking and make the climb worth it. Trekkers then descend to the village of Dzongla before continuing on towards the Everest Base Camp Trek route.
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek offers an additional bonus of visiting the beautiful village of Thame, the birthplace of famous mountaineers like Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Apa Sherpa. The trek then continues towards the Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important spiritual centers of the region, before descending back to Lukla.
The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and previous trekking experience. Trekkers should be prepared for long days of hiking and changing weather conditions, including cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, the stunning scenery and cultural experiences make it an unforgettable adventure for those who are up for the challenge.
Outline Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 3: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,652m)
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Day 5: Rest and Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Day 6: Trek to Phortse Thanga (3,680m)
Day 7: Trek to Machhermo (4,470m)
Day 8: Trek to Gokyo (4,790m)
Day 9: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Explore Gokyo Lakes
Day 10: Trek to Thagnak (4,700m)
Day 11: Trek to Dzongla (4,830m) via Chola Pass (5,420m)
Day 12: Trek to Lobuche (4,930m)
Day 13: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,160m) and Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Day 14: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Return to Gorak Shep
Day 15: Trek to Pheriche (4,240m)
Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 17: Trek to Lukla
Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu
Itenerary
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Detail Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – Arrival in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, and transfer to the hotel.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation – Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu to explore the historical and cultural landmarks of the city, followed by trek preparation.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding – Early morning flight to Lukla, followed by trekking to Phakding, a small village situated at an altitude of 2,652m.
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar – Trekking through the Dudh Koshi River valley to reach Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa village in the region, situated at an altitude of 3,440m.
Day 5: Rest and Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar – Rest day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the higher altitude and explore the local area.
Day 6: Trek to Phortse Thanga – Trekking through forests and along the river to reach Phortse Thanga, a small village situated at an altitude of 3,680m.
Day 7: Trek to Machhermo – Trekking along the Dudh Koshi River and passing through villages like Dole and Luza to reach Machhermo, situated at an altitude of 4,470m.
Day 8: Trek to Gokyo – Trekking to Gokyo, situated at an altitude of 4,790m, passing through the picturesque villages of Pangka and Ngozumpa Glacier.
Day 9: Hike to Gokyo Ri and Explore Gokyo Lakes – Hike to Gokyo Ri, a peak situated at an altitude of 5,357m, to enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas and explore the beautiful Gokyo Lakes.
Day 10: Trek to Thagnak – Trekking through the stunning landscape of the Gokyo Valley to reach Thagnak, situated at an altitude of 4,700m.
Day 11: Trek to Dzongla via Chola Pass – Trekking through the challenging and rocky Chola Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,420m, to reach Dzongla, situated at an altitude of 4,830m.
Day 12: Trek to Lobuche – Trekking through the Khumbu Valley and passing through the village of Pheriche to reach Lobuche, situated at an altitude of 4,930m.
Day 13: Trek to Gorak Shep and Visit Everest Base Camp – Trekking to Gorak Shep and then visiting the iconic Everest Base Camp, situated at an altitude of 5,364m.
Day 14: Hike to Kala Patthar and Return to Gorak Shep – Hiking to Kala Patthar, a peak situated at an altitude of 5,545m, to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and then returning to Gorak Shep.
Day 15: Trek to Pheriche – Trekking back through the Khumbu Valley to reach Pheriche, situated at an altitude of 4,240m.
Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar – Trekking back through the Dudh Koshi River valley to reach Namche Bazaar.
Day 17: Trek to Lukla – Trekking back through the scenic trail to reach Lukla, the starting point of the trek.
Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu – Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu – Transfer to the airport for departure from Kathmandu, marking the end of the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek.
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Full Board
Cost Includes:
Cost Excludes:
BC Service
Cost Includes:
Cost Excludes:
Price per person
Usefull Information
Inclusions:
- Airport transfers (pick up and drop off)
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star hotel) and teahouses during the trek
- Domestic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and back
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Experienced trekking guide and porters
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card
- First Aid Kit and oxygen cylinder
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Exclusions:
- International flights and visas
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, etc.
- Tips for the guide and porters (recommended but not mandatory)
- Any additional expenses or activities not mentioned in the itinerary
FAQs
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What is the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
The Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal that combines the Gokyo Lakes trek with a crossing of the Cho La Pass. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, as well as visits to high-altitude lakes and glaciers.
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How long does it take to complete the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
The duration of the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek typically ranges from 14 to 18 days, depending on the specific itinerary chosen, trekking pace, and acclimatization needs. This includes both the trek to Gokyo and the crossing of the Cho La Pass.
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When is the best time to do the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
The best time to trek the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions.
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Is the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek difficult?
The Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is considered to be a challenging trek due to its high altitude and crossing of the Cho La Pass. Trekkers should be physically fit, experienced in high-altitude trekking, and prepared for long days of walking, varying terrain, and potential altitude sickness.
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What permits are required for the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
Trekkers need to obtain a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card, which can be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
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What is the highest point reached on the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
The highest point reached on the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is the summit of Cho La Pass, which sits at an altitude of around 5,420 meters (17,782 feet). This pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
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What are the accommodation options along the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
Accommodation options along the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek include teahouses, guesthouses, and basic lodges in villages and settlements along the route. These provide simple rooms with communal dining areas and shared bathroom facilities.
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Are there any side trips or attractions along the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
Yes, there are several side trips and attractions you can explore during the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek, including visits to Gokyo Ri for panoramic mountain views, the Ngozumpa Glacier, and the village of Thame.
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Do I need a guide for the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek?
While it’s not mandatory to hire a guide for the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek, it’s recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with the terrain or traveling solo. Guides can provide valuable assistance, navigation, and cultural insights during the trek.
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Best Seasons spring -
Duration 19 days -
Trek Difficulty Moderate
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