The Gokyo Cho-la Everest trek is a popular trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It combines the stunning Gokyo Valley, the challenging Cho-La pass, and the iconic Everest Base Camp, offering trekkers an unforgettable journey through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. The duration of the Gokyo Cho-La trek typically ranges from 16- 20 days.
One of the highlights and challenges of this trek is, crossing the Chola-Pass(5420 meters). This high-altitude pass involves ascending steep, rocky terrain and navigating glaciers, but it rewards you with stunning vistas. The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and a hike to the picturesque Gokyo Valley. Here you will find a series of turquoise glacial lakes, surrounded by towering peaks, including Gokyo Ri, which offers panoramic views of Cho-Oyu, Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse.
The trek takes you to the iconic Everest Base camp(5364 meters), where climbers prepare their ascent to Mount Everest. The views of Khumbu icefall and the surrounding peaks are awe-inspiring. From Everest Base Camp, you hike to Kala Patthar(5545 meters), one of the best viewpoints in the region. It provides an up-close view of the Everest and the surrounding giants. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture, visiting monasteries, and villages like Namche Bazaar, and interacting with the friendly locals.
Gokyo Lake is located in the middle of all the trekking routes i.e. the Everest base camp trek, Everest view trek, and Everest three-pass trek. If you have enough time you can continue the trek towards Everest Chola Pass. For more information, you can directly connect with our team via mail or WhatsApp.
Best Seasons for Gokyo Cho-La Everest Trek
Spring season(March-May) is one of the most popular times to undertake the Gokyo Cho-La Everest Trek as the weather is generally stable, with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rainfall. The rhododendron forests along the trail bloom in a riot of colors adding to the scenic beauty and making it an excellent time for trekking.
The Autumn season(September-November) is another ideal time for the Gokyo Cho-La Everest Trek and is often considered the best overall trekking season in Nepal. The weather is stable and dry, offering excellent visibility of mountain views. During this season, the trails are in great condition and the landscapes are beautifully adorned with clear skies and colorful scenery.
Seasons to Avoid for The Gokyo Cho-La Everest Trek
Monsoon season(June-August) brings heavy rainfall in the Everest region, making the trails muddy, slippery, and vulnerable to landslides and avalanches. This season must be avoided if you want a suitable and safe trek as leeches and insects become more prevalent during this time.
The winter season(December-February) in the Everest region is very cold, with sub-zero temperatures at higher altitudes. Many tea houses and lodges along the trekking route may close due to the winter season, limiting the accommodation options. The high passes, especially the Cho-La pass, are prone to heavy snowfall and icy conditions, making them treacherous to cross.
Permits Required for the Trek
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: The Sagarmatha National Park is home to the Everest region, and all trekkers heading to the Everest Basse Camp, Gokyo Valley, or Cho-La Pass, must obtain this permit.
Trekker’s Information Management System Card(TIMS): The TIMS card is a trekkers database system that helps ensure the safety and security of trekkers in Nepal. It is required for trekking, in most trekking regions, including the Everest region.
Outline Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival In Kathmandu
DAY 2: Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding
DAY 3: Phakding-Namche Bazaar
DAY 4: Acclimatization Day
DAY 5: Namche Bazaar-Dole
DAY 6: Dole-Machhermo
DAY 7: Machhermo-Gokyo(Afternoon hike to Gokyo Ri)
DAY 8: Gokyo-Thagnak(Morning hike to Gokyo 4th Lake)
DAY 9: Thagnak-Cho Dzongla via Chola Pass
DAY 10: Dzongla-Lobuche
DAY 11: Lobuche-Gorakshep(Afternoon hike to Kala Patthar)
DAY 12: Gorakshep-Pheriche(Morning hike to EBC)
DAY 13: Pheriche-Namche Bazaar
DAY 14: Namche Bazaar-Lukla
DAY 15: Lukla-Kathmandu
DAY 16: Departure
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5643m/18513ft
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Sep-Dec/March-May
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Kathmandu
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Kathmandu
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Hotel, Tea house
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Private Vehicle
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All meals during the trek
Overview
The Gokyo Cho-La Everest Trek, spanning 16 awe-inspiring days, unfolds as a captivating odyssey through Nepal’s enchanting Khumbu region. Commencing in the bustling heart of Kathmandu, the journey is a symphony of diverse landscapes and cultural encounters. After a heart-pounding flight to Lukla, trekkers traverse picturesque Sherpa villages, verdant forests, and the tranquil valleys of Dole and Machhermo. The Gokyo Valley emerges as a highlight, adorned with emerald lakes and crowned by the exhilarating ascent of Gokyo Ri. Conquering the challenging Cho-La Pass, adventurers reach the iconic Everest Base Camp, where glaciers and the Khumbu Icefall awe-inspire. The return to Lukla via Pheriche and Namche Bazaar marks a triumphant conclusion to this epic Himalayan adventure, leaving indelible memories of Nepal’s majestic beauty and the resilience of those who dare to explore it.
Highlights
- The trek offers breathtaking views of some of the world's highest peaks, including, Mt Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and many more.
- Explore the stunning Gokyo Valley with its pristine emerald Lakes, including the renowned Gokyo Lake.
- Conquer the challenging Cho-La Pass, a high altitude adventure that involves ascending rocky terrain and navigating glaciers.
- Stand at the Everest Base camp and feel the aura of this legendary place.
- Hike to Kala Patthar, one of the best view points in the region, to witness an up close view of the Everest and surrounding peaks bathed in the golden hues of sunrise.
- Transverse thrilling suspension bridges that span deep gorges and roaring rivers, adding an adventurous element to your trek.
- Savor local Nepali and Sherpa cuisine, providing a taste of the region's culinary traditions.
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