Introduction to Everest Cho La Pass Trek
The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is a 19-day journey through the Khumbu region of Nepal. The anticlockwise route first takes you to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) before continuing to Dzongla, Cho La Pass (5,420 m), Thangnak, and Gokyo Valley. Along the way, the trail passes through Sherpa villages, forested valleys, high mountain terrain, and glacial areas.
The journey begins with a flight to Lukla (2,840 m) from Kathmandu or, during the busy trekking seasons, from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport). From Lukla, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi Valley through Phakding, Benkar, and Monjo before entering Sagarmatha National Park. After crossing suspension bridges and walking through pine and rhododendron forests, the trail climbs to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the main trading center of the Khumbu region.
From Namche Bazaar, the trail follows a hillside route through Kyangjuma and Sanasa toward Phunki Tenga. The trail then climbs through rhododendron and pine forest to Tengboche (3,867 m). After Tengboche, the route descends through Deboche and continues toward Pangboche, following the Imja Khola through traditional Sherpa settlements. The trail passes Shomare and Orsho before reaching Dingboche (4,410 m).
After acclimatization in Dingboche, the trail continues toward Duglha and Lobuche (4,910 m). The surroundings become more open and rugged as the route moves above the tree line. From Lobuche, the trail follows the Khumbu Glacier area toward Gorak Shep (5,164 m) before continuing to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). The route crosses rocky moraine and glacial terrain, with views of the surrounding peaks along the way.
An early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) follows a steep trail and provides close views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and other Himalayan peaks. After returning toward Gorak Shep and descending to Lobuche, the route turns toward Dzongla (4,830 m). This section is quieter than the main Everest Base Camp trail and passes through open, rugged mountain terrain.
From Dzongla, the trail climbs toward Cho La Pass (5,420 m). The approach becomes steeper and more uneven, with snow or ice possible depending on the season and weather. After crossing the pass, the route descends toward Thangnak (4,700 m). From Thangnak, the trail continues across the rugged surroundings of the Ngozumpa Glacier before reaching Gokyo (4,790 m).
The Gokyo section offers views of turquoise lakes, glaciers, and surrounding mountain peaks. An optional hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) can be arranged according to weather, trail conditions, and the group's energy level. From Gokyo, the route descends through Machhermo and Dole (4,200 m), following hillside trails through changing vegetation before returning to Namche Bazaar.
From Namche, the trail follows the Dudh Koshi Valley through Jorsalle, Monjo, and Phakding toward Lukla. The route gradually descends through forests, suspension bridges, riverside sections, and mountain villages. After completing the trekking section, we take a scheduled flight from Lukla to Kathmandu or Ramechhap, depending on the season and flight operations. If the flight arrives at Ramechhap, the journey continues to Kathmandu by road.
The trek requires good physical fitness and preparation for long walking days, steep sections, high-altitude trails, and the Cho La Pass crossing. Acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and Dingboche (4,410 m) are included to allow time to adjust to the increasing elevation. Experienced local guides, appropriate pacing, and attention to weather and trail conditions are important throughout the journey.
Highlights of the Everest Cho La Pass Trek
- Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) through the scenic Khumbu Valley
- Enjoy spectacular mountain views from Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
- Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
- Explore the scenic Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Valley (4,790 m)
- Take an optional hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for panoramic Himalayan views
- Experience the rugged landscape of the Ngozumpa Glacier
- Visit Tengboche Monastery (3,867 m) and traditional Sherpa villages
- Walk through diverse forests, valleys, glaciers, and alpine terrain
- Acclimatize in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and Dingboche (4,410 m)
- Follow an anticlockwise route connecting Everest Base Camp, Cho La, and Gokyo
