- Hotels & Guesthouse
- Kathmandu
- March to May & Sep to Dec
- Plane & Private Vehicle
- Moderate
- 5545 M
- 2-16
- Eco-Tour, Hiking, Trekking
Highlights of Everest Cho La Pass Trek
- One of the standout highlights of the Everest Cho La Pass Trek is your thrilling arrival at Lukla Airport, often called the "Gateway to Everest." Known for its dramatic setting at 2,860 meters, Lukla Airport is one of the highest and most exciting airports in the world. T
- Standing at 5,420 meters, Cho La Pass is one of the most thrilling parts of the trek. Crossing this glacier-covered pass offers breathtaking views and a true sense of accomplishment.
- Gokyo Valley is home to the stunning Gokyo Lakes. The bright blue waters of these sacred lakes, especially under the clear skies, are a sight to behold.
- ala Patthar, standing at 5,545 meters, offers the best close-up views of Mount Everest. Sunrise from this viewpoint is simply breathtaking, with Everest and its neighboring peaks glowing in the morning light.
- Witness the Khumbu Icefall, a dynamic landscape of towering glaciers and crevasses.
- The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests and tranquil lakes to icy glaciers and rocky terrains. Each day brings new and stunning scenery to admire.
Everest Cho La Pass Trek Overview
Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? The Everest Cho La Pass Trek is calling your name! This 19-day trek will take you through some of Nepal’s most stunning landscapes, combining the iconic Everest Base Camp with the breathtaking Gokyo Valley.
You’ll kick off your journey by landing at Lukla Airport, one of the highest-altitude airports in the world. From there, you’ll follow a path that merges the classic Everest Base Camp route with the serene Gokyo Lakes. The highlight of this trek is crossing the Cho La Pass, standing tall at over 5,420 meters. The pass itself is a challenge, but the rewards are immense. As you trek across glaciers, you’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and of course, Mount Everest.
One of the most memorable parts of this trek is your time in Gokyo Valley, nestled deep in the Himalayas. Here, you’ll find Gokyo Lake, a sacred body of water that glows with a bright blue hue under the sunny sky. This lake isn’t just a sight for sore eyes—it’s also a spiritual spot where locals gather during Janai Purnima to take a holy dip and worship Lord Bishnu and Lord Shiva.
As you continue your trek, you’ll pass through the Khumbu region, known for its stunning Khumbu glacier and rich cultural experiences. Expect to see tranquil lakes, icy glaciers, and beautiful Buddhist monasteries along the way. The Everest Cho La Pass trek also offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional Sherpa culture, known for its warmth and hospitality.
Is the Everest Cho La Pass Trek for You?
Everest Cho La Pass Trek is not for the faint of heart—it’s a challenging journey that requires good fitness. The elevation gain on this trek is significant, reaching up to 5,545 meters at Kala Patthar. Altitude sickness is a real concern, so training well before your trip is important. You’ll need to focus on both cardiovascular and strength training to prepare for the demands of high-altitude trekking.
The Best Time to Visit the Everest ChoLa Pass trek
The best time to tackle the Everest Cho La Pass trek is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). In spring, you’ll enjoy mild weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies, making it a perfect time to take in the stunning mountain views. The trails are well-maintained, and the teahouses are open and ready to welcome you.
Autumn is equally fantastic, offering crisp, clear skies and some of the best views of Everest and its neighboring peaks. The trails are dry and stable, and the cool air makes for comfortable trekking. Plus, you’ll get to experience local festivals like Dashain and Tihar. While you can trek during the monsoon or winter, these seasons bring challenges like heavy rain and snow, making spring and autumn the ideal times for a safer and more enjoyable adventure.
Permits Required for Everest Cho La Pass Trek
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) permits are required for all trekkers entering the national park, which includes the Everest region. You can obtain this at the park entrance in Monjo or Lukla. Cost varies based on nationality and duration (around $30-USD 40 for foreigners). Ensure you check the permit’s validity period, exceeding it incurs fines.
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Permit: TIMS permits are mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal. It’s necessary to provide details about your trek and assist search and rescue efforts. Apply online or at designated offices in Kathmandu, Lukla, or Monjo. Cost varies based on nationality and duration (around $20-USD 40 for foreigners).
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: This permit is required for all foreign trekkers entering the rural municipality. Trekkers can obtain these permits at the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality office in Namche Bazaar or Lukla. Cost varies based on nationality and duration (around $20-USD 30 for foreigners)
If our Everest Cho La Pass Trek itinerary isn’t quite right for you, let us craft a custom plan that matches your unique preferences. Contact us today to design your perfect trek and start your unforgettable journey in Nepal