Cho La Pass Trek
Glacier crossings, Gokyo Lakes, and epic Everest views—an unforgettable Himalayan adventure

Trip Overview:
Location
Nepal
Region
Everest
Max-Elevation
5,545 m
Duration
19 days
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Best Seasons
Spring and Autumn
Group
Min. 1 Pax
Difficulty
Strenuous
Start Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Permit
Required
Food
Three Meals/Day
Introduction to Cho La Pass Trek
The Cho La Pass Trek is an adventurous and challenging journey in the Everest region of Nepal, which connects the picturesque Gokyo Valley to the world-famous Everest Base Camp through the Cho La Pass. This pass is at the high altitude of 5,420 meters. Along with Kongma La and Renjo La, Cho La Pass is one of the three most exciting passes for trekking in the region – you will definitely not get bored: there are beautiful views of the mountains, picturesque glacier crossings, and challenging hiking. This trek will be a perfect choice for those who are passionate about nature and a real adventure.
The journey kicks off with a plane trip over the majestic landscape to the Lukla airport from Kathmandu, or, during busy periods of the trekking season, from Ramechhap (Manthali), 135 km from the capital and 4–5 hours of drive. The trek begins in Lukla, where one follows the Dudh Koshi River to the gorgeous Sherpa villages, Nayakhang, Chheplung, Ghat, Phakding, Monjo, and Jorsalle. The path then climbs steeply to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the trade center of the Khumbu region, where the energy of the markets, the breathtaking mountain views and the ancient culture of the Sherpas promise a unique and unforgettable experience.
Once at Namche, the trail leads you to Phortse Thanga, Dole, and Machhermo, and finally to the emerald green lakes of Gokyo at an altitude of 4,750 meters. If you reach the summit of Gokyo Ri peak, which stands at an elevation of 5,357 meters, you will be rewarded with an outstanding panorama that includes Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. From Gokyo (4,750 m), the trekkers climb across the Ngozumpa Glacier to Thangna (4,700 m) and then conquer the hard Cho La Pass (5,420 m) climb before descending into Dzongla's dazzling valley at 4,830 m. This place is a perfect spot for the trekkers to take a rest before they continue back to the normal Everest Base Camp trail.
From Dzongla, the trail gently rises and falls before leveling out on the approach to Lobuche (4,910 m). Leaving Lobuche behind, trekkers make a stop at Gorak Shep (5,164 m), the last teahouse settlement before reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). It's from this point where an ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) opens up breathtaking bird’s eye views and exceptional photographic chances of Mount Everest as well as the encircling Himalayan wonders.
The way back goes via Lobuche, Pheriche, and Pangboche and provides a soothing descent through gorgeous alpine scenery and traditional Sherpa villages. Trekkers also make a stop at Tengboche Monastery - the spiritual heart of the Sherpas, with awe-inspiring Ama Dablam as its backdrop. The last part of the trek retraces the steps back to Namche Bazaar, a final view of the bustling center of the Khumbu.
Sometimes trekkers stop in Namche Bazaar before continuing the trek through Monjo, Phakding, and other villages on the way to Lukla, where you catch a flight to Lukla for the last night in the mountains. The next day, a stunning flight brings you back to either Kathmandu or Ramechhap, marking the end of an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
If you rather ascend to the Everest Base Camp first and then continue to Gokyo through Cho La Pass, easily reverse this route. Our Everest Cho La Pass Trek itinerary is fully customizable, allowing trekkers to choose a route that best suits their speed and preferences while ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Cho La Pass Trek
Best Time of the year for the Cho La Pass Trek
The best time for the Cho La Pass Trek is spring and autumn, with stable weather and clear views. Avoid monsoon rain and slippery trails, and winter’s heavy snow.
- Autumn(September to November)
This is one of the best times for the Cho La Pass Trek. Clear skies after the monsoon offer stunning mountain views, stable weather, and ideal conditions for safely crossing the high-altitude Cho La Pass.
- Spring(March to May)
This is another excellent time for the Cho La Pass Trek. The weather is mild, the skies are generally clear, and the lower trails are vibrant with blooming rhododendrons. This season offers great visibility of the Himalayan peaks and favorable conditions for crossing the high-altitude Cho La Pass.
- Monsoon(June to August)This is not recommended for the Cho La Pass Trek. Heavy rainfall leads to slippery trails, poor visibility, and a higher risk of landslides. Flights to and from Lukla are often delayed or canceled, and crossing the Cho La Pass becomes dangerous due to wet, unstable conditions.
- Winter(December to February)This is a challenging time for the Cho La Pass Trek. Extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and icy trails make the pass difficult or even impossible to cross. Many teahouses close at higher altitudes, and only experienced trekkers with proper gear should attempt the route during this season.
Accommodation in Cho La Pass Trek
Accommodation on the Cho La Pass Trek mainly consists of teahouses and lodges offering basic rooms. Most rooms are shared dormitories or simple private rooms with twin beds. Heating is limited, so bringing warm sleeping gear is essential. Bathrooms are usually shared, and hot showers may be available for an extra fee at some lodges.
Availabilty of food in Cho La Pass Trek
Food availability on the Cho La Pass Trek is generally good along the main route, with teahouses and lodges offering a variety of meals. You can find local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), and noodles, as well as some Western options like pasta and omelets. Prices increase with altitude, and options may be limited near the pass, so carrying some snacks and energy bars is recommended.
Guides and Porters for Cho La Pass Trek
Guides and porters are highly recommended for the Cho La Pass Trek. Our packages include both, providing expert guidance to navigate challenging terrain and porters to carry your gear, making your trek safer and more enjoyable. Hiring them also supports local communities.
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Itinerary
After you arrive in Kathmandu airport please check our company board outside the main gate there will be our airport representative you will meet with him and he will transferred to hotel by private vehicle and our representative will help you to check-in your hotel after that if time enough, representative will take you to our office for short briefing about the trip but if not enough time then give a short trip brief in hotel and request to pay the due balance for the trip. Overnight at Hotel
After breakfast, Kathmandu visits Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa which are all World Heritage Sites. Durbar Square throws light on the life of the royals in ancient times. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage places for all Hindus. Swayambhunath is also known as Monkey Temple and Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world. Late in the afternoon, we introduced you to your mountain/trek guide. overnight at Hotel
Early morning your trek guide will be meeting you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport by private vehicle for the Lukla flight. Kathmandu to Lukla you will fly on a twin-engine (tiny) aircraft. The views from the plane are amazing, providing dramatic views of terraced hills and the distant Himalayan giants. After landing in the village of Lukla (2,840 m) you will meet the rest of your staff/porters that the guide will hire them in Lukla for your whole trek. The trail drops steeply for a bit then descends to Chheplung (2,660 m) and Thado Khosi gaon there is a suspension bridge that you have to cross after that you see the head of the valley Mt. Kusum Kanguru (6,367 m). After bridge climbs a bit to reach at Ghat (2,590 m) on banks of the Dudh Koshi River just a short visit at monastery, then little easy walk then after climb again to reach at Phakding (2610m) Overnight at Teahouse.
Today, the trail we cross the Dudh Koshi river and climb gently the valley to Toktak (2,760 m) and Benkar (2,710 m) The trail keeps close to the river valley and is lined with beautiful blue pine and rhododendron forest that is very spectacular in the spring months, when the flowers are in bloom and also you will see the beautiful waterfall. We will see the snow-capped peak of Thamserku (6,623 m) and Khumbi La (5,765 m) at Benkar. We cross the Dudh Kosi River at Benkar. From here it is only a short walk to Monjo (2,840 m). Just beyond the Monjo trek enters the Sagarnatha (Everest) national park where you need to check your permits. After checking the permits the trail steep rocky descend to large farm aftermath cross bridge at Dudh Kosi and follow the west banks. Just a short distance up the river is Jorsale (2,830 m). The trail follows the river for a while, then re-crosses the Dudh Koshi along the river bank and after short ups and downs, makes a steep climb near the confluence of the two rivers (Bhote Koshi and Dush Koshi) then little climb and re-crosses bridge at Dudh Koshi after that the trail follows the steep ascent towards the Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). One hour before arrive Namche Bazaar from where we may see the Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m) and Nuptse (7,879 m) first time in your life. Namache bazaar is gateway to khambu. Namche is the main trading village in the Khumbu region and holds a busy Saturday market. There is set a meeting place for the Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that have reached there by crossing the glaciated Nangpa La pass. Overnight at teahouse.
Acclimatization is most important before heading higher. Most of the trekkers' acclimatization at Namche on their trek schedule. Today you may excursion either Thame village or viewpoint as your wish, but better to consult with your guide regarding the day trip earlier night. If you prefer to Thame, it takes approximately 7/8 hours walking both way go and return to Namche. It is popular for visiting Thame monastery but most of the trekker’s choose the easy option just to go Viewpoint in the stand point of splendid view of the Himalayas including Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Lhotse shar (8,382 m), Nuptse (7,879 m), peak- 38(7591m), Ama dablam (6,856 m), Thamserku (6,623 m), Kangtega (6,783 m), Kusum kangaru (6,367 m), Cholaste (6,335 m), Tabuche peak (6,495 m), Khumbi La (5,765 m) and Kwangde Ri (6,011 m) etc. overnight at teahouse.
Today the trail at the first slightly climb up for a while up to the Chor camp at Namche Bazaar then continue easy level walk to kyangjuma 3,550 meters. Along the way from chor camp at Namche bazaar to kyangjuma you may enjoy incredible views of Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Lhotse shar (8,382 m), Nuptse (7,879 m), peak- 38 (7,591 m), Ama dablam (6,856 m), Thamserku (6,623 m), Kangtega (6,783 m), Kusum kangaru (6,367 m), Cholaste (6,335 m), Tabuche peak (6,495 m), Khumbi La (5,765 m) and Kwangde Ri (6,011 m). From kyangjuma the trail follows for a while, easy level walk through Rhododendron forest to sanasa. There is three way directions from where one way right hand side leads to the direct Everest base camp trek and another way upward left-hand side leads to the Gokyo valley trek. From here the trail steep climb up approximately one and half hour to reach at Mongla danda (3,978 m) where there are a few teahouses and a chorten so you may rest here for a while and enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Ama dablam including numerous mountains. The trail from Mongla danda descends in steep bends trail to Phortse thanga (3,680 m). From Phortse thanga you will meet two trails one higher route left hand side lead to Gokyo valley trek and lower trail right hand side lead to Phortse village. From after Phortse Thanga the trail climbs steeply through rhododendron and juniper forests, then after small part level walks before to reach at Dole (4,090 m). Overnight at teahouse.
Today trek from Dole to Machhermo you will climb gradually along the side of the valley, where the small and thorny bushes give way to scrub juniper as the altitude increases. The trail passes many summer settlements, which are used when yaks are taken to these pastures to graze in the summer months. Ahead of you are excellent views of Cho Oyu (8,201 m) while back down the valley are the peaks of Kantega (6,783 m) and Thamserku (6,623 m). You are walking through Lhabarma (4,330 m), Luza (4,340 m) and finally reach at Machhermo (4,410 m). Overnight at teahouse.
Today trek from Machhermo to Gokyo the trail climbs a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kangtega and up towards to Cho-Oyu (8,201 m). Beyond the ridge, the valley widens as the trail passes through Pangka at 4,390 meters then descends to the river bank before beginning the climb onto the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa glacier. It is a steep climb up the moraine, switch backing alongside the stream to the first small lake Longponga (4,650 m) where a family of Brahmin ducks has resided for many years. After first lake the trail now becomes almost level as it follows the valley past a second lake known as Taujung (4,710 m) and continue trek to Gokyo Lake (4,750 m). Overnight at Teahouse
Wake up early and hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Everest region including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. After enjoying the view from Gokyo Ri, hike back to Gokyo. After lunch, you will continue your trek along the Ngozumpa Glacier, crossing rocky terrain. We will reach Thangna, a small settlement at the foot of Cho La Pass. Overnight at Teahouse
Today is going to be one of the toughest days, the pass is not itself difficult, but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. We need to be careful as the trail is vertical and the rocks glazed with ice, add trouble to the trekkers making the trekking trail slippery. Our trail climbs through a narrow valley and a rocky trail we climb up continuously up from Phedi. As we gain height, the view gets increasingly captivating before us. We trek through the side of a frozen lake while we come to the top of the Cho La pass (5420m) decorated with prayer flags. Famous mountains we get sight of during the trail on the Pass and from the top are Kyajo Ri, Tengkangpoche, Numbur, Kangchung etc. The pyramidal Ama Dablam presides over a range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soar on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. After the Cho La pass, the trail descends steeply towards the Dzonglha (4,830 m) passing through some crevasses and pine forests before we reach at Dzongla, another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche and the Pheriche village far below. Finally, you reach at Dzongla (4,830 m) here are few basic teahouse facilities. Overnight at teahouse
Today you don’t have to walk longer and also not a hard trail from Dzongla to Lobuche so you can enjoy the trip after crossing the Cho La Pass (5,420 m). The trail descends and ascends gently and level walk finally you reach at Lobuche (4910m). This trip is providing excellent views of Ama Dablam, the Nuptse-Lhotse, Everest, Pumori, Lobuche peak, etc. Lobuche is a small village situated nearby the stream and the sunset on Nuptse is a memorable sight. Overnight in teahouse
Today, the trail follows the western side of Khumbu valley ascends gently through meadows nearby the glacial moraine after that ascends and descends in the rocky path with some rounding the bands. Along the way you can enjoy incredible views of Pumori (7,167 m) Lingtren (6,713 m), Khumbutse (6,639 m), Nuptse (7,879 m), Lobuche East (6,090 m) as well as Khumbu glacier and Icefall. After finishing several bands you will a bit descends to Gorak Shep (5,140 m). After reaching Gorak Shep you may have your lunch and leave your bag pack at teahouse then start your journey to Everest base camp (5,364 m). You will spend about 4 and half hours trek up to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorak Shep. The trek trail is on glacier and snow capped rocks. You can also see many small frozen lakes around the Everest Base Camp. There are several mountains, including Pumori (7,165 m), Lingtren (6,713 m), Khumbutse (6,639 m), Nuptse (7,879 m) and Lhotse (8,516 m) but you can’t see the mount Everest (8,848 m) from Everest base camp although you will see it along the trail. The most impressive view from Everest base camp is the Khumbu Icefall. After enjoying the beautiful moment at the Everest base camp then return back to Gorak Shep. Overnight at teahouse.
Today early in the morning from Gorak Shep hike up to Kala patter for magnificent view of the numerous Himalaya as well as breathtaking view of sunrise. The trail from Gorak sheep to Kala patter at the beginning steep climb up approximately half an hour reach the flat land where have been attending Nepal government cabinet meeting regarding the issue of the global warming in 2009.it was the first cabinet meeting in such a high place in the world. Aftermath the trail steep climb, with lots of bends finally you reach at kala patter after that about 50 meters steeply with rocky climbing to summit the main Kala pattar (5545m). Today you may see excellent views of the sunrise on the Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,879 m), Ama dablam (6,856 m), Thamserku (6623m), Kangtega (6,783 m), Kusum kangaru (6,367 m), Cholaste (6,335 m), Tabuche peak (6,495 m) Lobuche peak (6090m), Lingtren (6,713 m), Khumbutse (6,639 m), Lho La ,south col, changste as well as Everest base camp, the Khumbu Icefall and a few lakes. Once you are at the kala pattar you may feel you are touching Mt. pumori and close-up view Mt. Everest. Finally the dream comes in true then will return back to Gorak Shep have a breakfast continue trek heading down through Lobuche and Dughla. Little further from Dughla you will cross the river comes from Everest base camp and khumbu Icefall then you will meet two trails where one way left hand side goes to Dingboche and lower one right hand side goes to Pheriche. Trek through left hand side leads flat and smoothly descends to Dingboche through Dusa to a chorten at the head of the Imja Khola. Finally, you reach at Dingboche (4,410 m). Overnight at teahouse.
The trail from Dingboche descends the valley then cross the Khumbu Khola bridge and climbs to rejoin the upward trail at some stone huts near Orsho. After that, the trail leads slightly descends to Orhso continue level walk to Somare then slightly descents and a bit ascend for a while, then level walk to two way junction where one trail higher right hand side goes to Phortse village via upper Pangboche and another lower trail left hand side goes to Tengboche through lower Pangboche. Beyond pangboche the trail descends past some magnificently carved mani stones to the Imja Khola, which we cross via a steel suspension bridge high above the river at a spot where it rushes through a narrow cleft then to Debache and a short steep climb to Tengboche through a forest of birches conifers and rhododendrons. Finally, you reach at Tengboche (3,867 m). You may enjoy the breathtaking view of sunset and sunrise as well as a magnificent view of the Mt. Everest including other Himalayas from Tengboche. Tengboche monastery is one of the beautiful monasteries in The Solu khumbu area as well as the religious center of the whole ‘Sherpa land ‘entire Solu Khumbu area. Overnight at teahouse.
Today we trek back along the Dudh Kosi River through a magnificent rhododendron forest and past brilliant waterfalls. Shortly before reaching Namche, the trek takes us through a pine forest, where musk deer often graze in the early morning. Arriving in town, we may see lowland porters, highland Sherpas, and the Tibetan people and again you reach in Namche bazaar. After Namche the trail descend to Larja dobhan (confluence of two rivers) though the pine forests before you reach at Larja Dobhan you may get a last opportunity to see Mt. Everest and Lhotse. After crossing the bridge at Larja Dobhan the trail descends for a while and then walk along the Dudh Koshi River. Re-cross the Dudh Koshi continue level walk to Jorsale. Beyond the Jorsale the trail leads a bit ascend after that re-crosses the suspension bridge, then short steep climb to Monjo (2,835 m). Overnight at teahouse.
From Monjo the trail leads descends for a while and cross the Dudh Kosi over the suspension bridge, then short easy level walk to Benkar. After Benker the trail follows a bit up and down and level walk along the Dush kosi valley then after re-crossing the suspension bridge you reach at Phakding (2,610 m). Beyond Phakding the trail follows a short descends continue level walk for a while, then short steep climb up passes several Buddhist setups at the Ghat village. Aftermath short steep climb up to the Thado Kosi and a bit descends re-cross the small bridge then climb up a short distance after that finally you re-crosses last longest suspension bridge of your trek. The trail after the long suspension bridge follows the upwards route as far as Chablung, then turns off towards Lukla. The broad trail at Chablung leading uphill to the left hand side climbs steadily past a few (bhattis) local inn and houses. From there the trail follows through scrub forest above the school and houses of Chaurikharka Village, then a final climb up of your trek about half and hour reach Lukla Tamang tole where a new settlement with houses and Bhattis then short distance walk to approach to Hotel close by Lukla airport. Overnight at teahouse.
In the morning, we take the tiny aircraft to flight from Lukla to Kathmandu which is very interesting scenery flight journey on the earth. After arrival in Kathmandu airport, we drive you to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel
Lukla gets occasional flight delays during the main season. This may cause missing your international flights as well, so we recommend you to prepare accordingly. Lukla suffers from quick weather changes and that may affect inbound and outbound flights. We reserved this day for possible flight delays. If we have a timely flight on DAY 03 or 17, we can use this day for rest in Kathmandu. You can shop around local markets and walk around the city. Overnight at Hotel
After breakfast, End of our services with departure transfer to the Kathmandu airport to board flight for your onward destination
Not Satisfied with the above itinerary? We also offer flexible, tailor-made trips according to your preferences and specification.
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Customer Reviews:

David & Wendy Galloway (Scotland)
I goggled companies that do the trekking in the Everest region and 3 came up immediately. I replied to them all and Alpine Adventure Club Treks & Expedition answered me straight away. They were excellent with informing me with what you would expect and what we needed to bring etc....

Armin, Michael & Kurt (Graz, Austria)
We were a group of three seeking a trek near the world’s most famous peaks. Binod, owner of Alpine Adventure Club, helped us plan 13 days of trekking and 2 days of sightseeing in Kathmandu well in advance, providing great tips and equipment advice. Our guide Bisnu and the porters...