Introduction to Everest Cho La Pass Trek
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek follows an anticlockwise route through the Everest region, combining the classic Everest Base Camp trail with the challenging crossing of Cho La Pass (5,420m) and the peaceful Gokyo Valley. This itinerary allows us to first explore Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar before continuing toward the Cho La Pass and Gokyo Lakes, offering a diverse experience with stunning mountain scenery, Sherpa culture, and high-altitude landscapes.
The journey begins with a scenic mountain flight to Lukla (2,840m) from Kathmandu or, during the peak trekking seasons, from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport). Manthali Airport is about a 4–6 hour drive from Kathmandu and is used as the departure point for Lukla flights during the busy trekking periods.
After landing in Lukla, we begin our trek through the Dudh Koshi Valley, following the trail via Phakding and Monjo to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the vibrant center of the Khumbu region. We spend a day here for acclimatization before continuing our trek through Tengboche, home to the region's best-known monastery, and then on to Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep (5,164m).
Along the way, the trail passes traditional Sherpa villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and a landscape dominated by some of the world's highest mountains, including Mount Everest (8,848m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Nuptse (7,861m).
From Gorak Shep, we hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), where climbers prepare for their summit attempts during the spring climbing season. Before sunrise the next morning, we climb Kala Patthar (5,545m), the most popular viewpoint in the Everest region, for outstanding views of Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Pumori (7,161m), and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After returning to Gorak Shep, we descend to Lobuche. Near Lobuche, the trail leaves the main Everest Base Camp route and heads toward Dzongla (4,830 m).
From Dzongla, we cross Cho La Pass (5,420m), a high mountain pass known for its rocky trails, glacier sections, and steep terrain. After crossing the pass, we descend to Thangnak (4,700m) and continue to Gokyo Village (4,790m), located beside the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. We explore the turquoise lakes before hiking to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), where panoramic views stretch across Mount Everest (8,848m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and many other snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
From Gokyo, we follow the trail back to Lukla via Machhermo, Dole, Namche Bazaar, and Phakding. Following the Dudh Koshi Valley, we pass through traditional Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges, and walk through forests before reaching Lukla. We spend our final evening in the Himalayas in Lukla, celebrating the successful completion of the trek with our trekking crew and sharing memories of the journey.
The following morning, we take an early morning scenic flight back to Kathmandu or, during the peak trekking seasons, to Ramechhap (Manthali Airport). After landing, we drive to your hotel in Kathmandu, completing our journey.
This circular route links the Everest Base Camp trail with the Gokyo Valley, allowing you to experience two of the Khumbu region's most beautiful valleys without retracing the entire route. From Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar to Cho La Pass, the Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri, each day offers a different landscape and perspective of the Himalayas. Together with the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, this trek provides a memorable and rewarding Everest experience.
This trek requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization due to the altitude and challenging sections. Our experienced local team provides guidance and support throughout the journey. Contact us or send your booking request today, and we will help you plan a safe, comfortable, and well-organized trekking experience in Nepal.
Highlights of the Everest Cho La Pass Trek
- Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).
- Cross the thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420 m).
- Enjoy sunrise views from Kala Patthar (5,545 m).
- Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes and hike to Gokyo Ri.
- Witness panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
- Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery.
- Experience authentic Sherpa culture and hospitality.
- Walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier and through picturesque mountain villages.
- Complete one of the most scenic trekking circuits in the Everest region.
