Introduction to Cho La Pass Trek
The Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek in Nepal’s Everest region, connecting the Gokyo Valley with Everest Base Camp through the remote trails of the Khumbu. The route crosses the Ngozumpa Glacier and climbs over Cho La Pass, with steep sections and rugged terrain along the way. Trekkers pass through quiet valleys and Sherpa villages while experiencing the changing mountain landscapes of the region. This trek is a good choice for travelers looking for a demanding itinerary that combines Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp in one rewarding journey.
The trek starts with a flight to Lukla (2,840 m) from Kathmandu or, during the main trekking seasons, from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport), about a 4–6-hour drive from Kathmandu. From Lukla, we follow the Dudh Koshi River Valley through Phakding (2,610 m), Monjo (2,835 m), and Jorsalle (2,740 m) before reaching Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). After acclimatizing in Namche, we continue toward the Gokyo side of the Khumbu.
From Namche, the trail passes through Kyangjuma (3,550 m) and Mong La (3,975 m), then descends to Phortse Tenga (3,680 m) before climbing through rhododendron and juniper forests to Dole (4,090 m). We continue through Lhabarma and Luza to Machhermo (4,410 m). The vegetation becomes shorter as the trail gains altitude and the valley opens toward the high mountains.
From Machhermo, the route enters the alpine landscape around the Ngozumpa Glacier. We pass Pangka and continue toward the Gokyo Lakes, passing Longponga and Taujung Lakes before reaching Gokyo Village (4,750 m). An early morning hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) provides views across the Gokyo Valley and toward Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse.
From Gokyo, we follow the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier toward Thangnak (4,700 m). The trail becomes rougher as we approach Cho La. From Thangnak, we make an early start for Cho La Pass (5,420 m). The crossing includes steep and rocky sections, with snow and ice possible depending on the season. After crossing the pass, we descend to Dzongla (4,830 m).
From Dzongla, we continue across the high-altitude terrain to Lobuche (4,910 m) and join the Everest Base Camp route. The trail leads to Gorak Shep (5,164 m), from where we hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) along the Khumbu Glacier before returning to Gorak Shep.
The following morning, we hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for views of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding peaks. We then descend through Lobuche and Dughla to Dingboche (4,410 m). With the drop in elevation, the landscape becomes greener, with villages, fields, and yak-grazing areas along the trail.
From Dingboche, we descend through the Imja Valley toward Pangboche (3,985 m), passing mani stones, prayer flags, and traditional Sherpa houses. The trail continues to Tengboche (3,867 m), home to Tengboche Monastery. We then descend through rhododendron, pine, and fir forests to Phunki Tenga before continuing to Namche Bazaar. The return route follows the Dudh Koshi Valley through Jorsalle, Monjo, and Phakding before reaching Lukla (2,840 m).
Our 19-day Cho La Pass Trek follows the route from Gokyo to Cho La Pass and then to Everest Base Camp. An anticlockwise option is also available, allowing trekkers to reach Everest Base Camp before crossing Cho La Pass toward Gokyo. We can adjust the itinerary according to your travel dates, available time, and trekking requirements.
We arrange accommodation in teahouses and mountain lodges along the route. Our team takes care of the main arrangements, including permits, accommodation, transportation, guides, meals, and other services included in the selected package.
If you are planning the Cho La Pass Trek and have any questions about the itinerary or trip arrangements, please feel free to contact us or send a booking request. Our team is here to provide the information and support you need to plan your trek.
Highlights of the Cho La Pass Trek
- Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m), one of the challenging high passes in the Everest region.
- Explore the Gokyo Valley and its beautiful high-altitude lakes.
- Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and surrounding peaks.
- Walk alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.
- Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) via the Khumbu Glacier.
- Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for close views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks.
- Experience traditional Sherpa villages, monasteries, and mountain communities in the Khumbu.
- Follow a less-traveled route through Thangnak, Dzongla, and Lobuche.
- Enjoy changing landscapes from rhododendron forests and river valleys to high alpine terrain.
- Complete the trek with an experienced local guide and organized teahouse services.
