ChoLa Pass: Be part of an extraordinary 16-day trek, the Everest Base Camp, ChoLa Pass, and Gokyo Valley. Immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Nepal’s Himalayas. Nestled in the country’s southeastern part, this region is a haven of majestic peaks, pristine glaciers, and awe-inspiring cliffs. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the heart of nature’s splendor.
Trek Overview
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas, where nature’s magnificence intertwines with a rich cultural tapestry. This 16-day trek invites you to witness stunning landscapes, delve into unique wildlife encounters, and forge lasting memories.
The trek takes you on a captivating path through the serene Khumbu region, nestled within the Sagarmatha National Park. Feast your eyes on the awe-inspiring vistas of Gokyo Valley (5357m), Kala Patthar (5550m), and towering giants like Mount Everest (8848m), Mt Lhotse (8516m), Mt Makalu (8485m), and Cho-Oyu (8201m). Each step offers a glimpse of the extraordinary, a chance to witness the grandeur of these colossal peaks.
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas, where nature’s magnificence intertwines with a rich cultural tapestry. This 16-day trek invites you to witness stunning landscapes, delve into unique wildlife encounters, and forge lasting memories. Join us Alpine Club of Himalaya for an unparalleled expedition, as we guide you through the wonders of Nepal’s Himalayas.
Important note:
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary. When deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full co-operation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Overview
Trip Highlights
- Trek across the Khumbu region and Sagarmatha National Park.
- Witness the region rich biodiversity.
- Explore series of Lakes at Gokyo and Climb the Gokyo Ri perched at 5,357 meters.
- Visit the Mount Everest Base Camp.
- Scale Kala Patthar a renowned vantage point of the region.
- Cross Chola Pass at an elevation of 5,368 Meters.
- Learn about the unique culture and lifestyle of the mountain people.
- Scenic flight from and to Kathmandu and Lukla.
Itinerary
The flight into Nepal is breathtaking with views of mountains and lush hills. Once you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport and are done with your immigration formalities, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative will drive you to your hotel. After a brief rest head out to explore the wonders of Kathmandu Valley. Later in the afternoon join in for a brief orientation regarding the trek followed by a welcome dinner.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Catch an early morning exciting flight from Kathmandu Airport to Lukla witnessing views of mountain giants. Lukla, a picturesque mountaintop Sherpa settlement is the starting point of your trek.
From Lukla head towards to Phakding, descend towards the Dudh Koshi River passing through various settlements of Chheplung, Ghat, Sano and Thulo Gumela and Chorten and monasteries of Drangdrak Gompa and Pema Choling Gompa with breathtaking views of sacred mountain peaks of Kumbila and sister summit Kusum Kanguru.
Phakding nestled at an elevation of 2,610 meters and is a small Sherpa settlement hidden in the heart of the Dudh Koshi Valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today you will be heading to Namche Bazar known as the "Sherpa capital”. The trail passes the Dudh Koshi, a milky glacial river up to Monjo crossing a number of suspension bridges and the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge.
After a brief rest, head towards Namche Bazaar on an uphill trail on a steep path to an amazing high bridge over the Dudh Koshi River gorge, and just before this bridge, the Dudh Koshi is met by its tributary, the Bhote Koshi. As you gain altitude, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge, from here Namche is a short hike away.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today is your first day for acclimatization, as you ascend higher, your body must acclimate to the thinner air at greater elevations. The village has various vantage points perfect for an acclimatization hike.
Head towards any vantage point before dawn and witness mesmerizing views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. The rays of the sun change the snowy white peak into various colors. Bask in the views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, Lhotse, and other mountain peaks.
After lunch head towards Thami a village located above the Bhote Khola River Valley. Traversing through the lush woodlands of the Sagarmatha National Park you will reach the national park headquarters above the village. From here witness panoramic views of the Mahalangur range and the mighty Everest. Explore the national park headquarters and learn about the Sherpa lifestyle, culture, and biodiversity of the region. After exploring the region head back towards Namche, and along the way witness the grand views of dusk.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast head into the trail. The trail today is filled with changing landscapes. Start by traversing across dense woodlands of varieties of pine, rhododendron, and cider with views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, and other mountain peaks of the Mahalangur range.
Traversing across dense woodlands and alpine grassland you will reach the settlement of Tengboche. Visit the ancient Tengboche Monastery and attend to the monks chanting sacred texts and prayers. The monastery is nestled in the center of the village with views of snowy mountain peaks on the backdrop. After exploring the monastery head towards your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Following the downhill trail, covered with a deep forest of conifers, birch, and rhododendrons you will reach Debouche. From here cross the raging Imja Khola and follow the trail towards the Imja Valley. Following the trail, you will reach the village of Pangboche nestled at an elevation of 3900 meters, which is the highest permanent settlement in this valley.
From this point the tree line disappears and you will be traversing high mountain country with arid landscapes. Following a ledge above the river, the trail crosses a wooden bridge at the confluence of the Khumbu and Imja Khola. A short steep climb brings you to Dingboche, at 4530m. Dingboche is a summer settlement and from here witness grand views of the great peaks of Ama Dablam, the ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse, Tawoche, and Cholatse.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today is your second day of acclimatization. In the morning wake up before dawn and head towards any vantage point to witness the grand views of sunrise. Later head on a hike towards the Nangkartsang Peak perched at 5,100 meters. The climb to the summit is non-technical but altitude can be a problem for some to take it slow.
Upon reaching the top witness spectacular panoramic views around including Kangtega, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Taboche and views across the valley. After spending a brief time at the summit head down towards your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast start the trek following the high routes across mountain country. Next, ascend the valley and follow the trail leading towards Pheriche. Along this section soak in the grand views of the landscape of Chukhung Valley and Island Peak.
After walking for about two hours cross a small stream on a wooden bridge and reach Dugla. Next following the ascending route head towards Lobuche. Along the way witness mountain giants including Mt. Pumori, Kantega, and Cholatse. Upon arrival at the settlement of Lobuche, relax and rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
The hike to Everest Base Camp is not extremely challenging, you do, however, have to traverse glacier trails. Start by traversing across the Khumbu Glacier, on rugged terrains, with a lot of meandering. On route observe the beautifully rounded ice towers on the top half of the Khumbu glacier. Upon reaching Gorak Shep, head towards your teahouse. After a brief stop for lunch head towards the Everest Base Camp.
This section of the trail is filled with spectacular views of mountains, icefalls, and glaciers. As you progress on the trail you will walk among the highest peak of the world. Upon reaching base camp witness spectacular views of the Nuptse, Khumbutse, and Pumori mountains, after basking in the mountains return to Gorak Shep.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Today wake up before dawn and head towards the famous vantage point of the Khumbu region, Kala Patthar at an elevation of 5545 meters. Apart from the altitude, the climb is non-technical.
Upon reaching the summit basking in the views of Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Changtse, Ama Dablam, Taweche, Kantega, Lhotse, and even Everest base camp snuggled at the base of the Khumbu Ice Fall. After spending a brief time at the summit retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep.
Upon reaching Gorak Shep and after a brief rest head onward to Dzongla, at the base of Cho-La Pass.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
After an early start breakfast, head to Thangnak. The path will take you westward from Dzongla and makes it way towards the formidable Cho-La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5420 meters.
The ascent towards the highest point of the valley will be a test of your endurance and strength. However, the stunning views of Chola Lake and Mt. AmaDablam will make it all worth it. The climb will be challenging, as the rocks may be icy and rugged, but the exhilaration of reaching the top of the pass will be unmatched. After relishing the spectacular scenery, we will make our descent towards Thangnak.
Overnight: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will be heading to the charming village of Gokyo, nestled at the foot of the imposing Mt Gokyo. The trail promises to be an exciting journey, filled with awe-inspiring views of towering mountains.
As you start the trek, you will continue uphill on a scenic trail that offers a spectacular vista of Tanjung Tsho Lake, nestled at an altitude of 4710m. Next the trail will take you along the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, stretching over 36 km. After crossing the glacier, you will be greeted by breathtaking views of Gokyo Lake. As you make your way towards the village of Gokyo, soak in the serenity and beauty of the surroundings.
The region nestles the world’s highest freshwater lake system comprising six main lakes and associated wetlands of 7,770 ha (30.0 sq mi) which has been designated a Ramsar site. The lakes also have cultural significance and are visited by Hindu and Buddhist devotees at various festivals.
Explore the emerald, green lakes, and soak in the energy. After exploring the 3 lakes located in small proximity of the tea house. Next head out to explore the fourth Gokyo Lake which is 3km north of the Gokyo Village. Next, continue trekking towards the 5th lake. The view from
‘Scoundrel’s Viewpoint’, located at the edge of the 5th lake, is astonishing. Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu mountains, and the huge Ngozumba Glacier appear in its majestic form. Spend the day strolling around the lakes and visiting other sacred lakes.
After exploring return back to the settlement.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
Gokyo Ri is the highlight of the Gokyo valley Trek and is an epic vantage point for the mountain views. Following an uphill section will lead you to the summit of Gokyo Ri, start by traversing across the stream on the northern end of the village and ascending for a couple of hours and you will reach the summit marked by a cradle of prayer flags.
The climb is non-technical, but the altitude may be a problem for some, so take it slow and have frequent rest. From the summit, witness splendid panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, and Taboche, with the Ngozumpa Glacier cutting across in front like a massive tear in the landscape.
Catch the views of a series of emerald, green lakes. After exploring the Ri and soaking in the majestic views retrace your steps back towards the village. After exploring the Ri and soaking in the majestic views retrace your steps back towards the village. Next, following the downhill trails reach the village of Dole.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast head out of Dole following the descending trails towards Phortse Thanga. Along this section traverse across lush wilderness of rhododendron, oaks, and pines. Next soaking in the grand views of the Kumbila peak reach an intersection. From here following the deep wilderness trails with miles of undergrowth reach Namche Bazar. Upon reaching the settlement relax and rest enjoying the views around.
Later head out to explore the settlement and visit the various pubs and restaurants arounds.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House.
Today start walking out of Namche Bazaar on a downhill trail along the Dudh Koshi River route.
Before arriving to Lukla, cross multiple suspension bridges and pass through several ancient monasteries and settlements. Once you arrive at Lukla rest and later celebrate your last day on the mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House
After an early Morning breakfast, head towards the Lukla Airport and fly back to Kathmandu.
The picturesque flight from Lukla to Kathmandu seems like a delight, once you arrive at
Kathmandu you’ll be driven to your accommodation. The valley has various tourism attraction, head out on a guided tour or explore the city on your own.
Later in the evening join in for a special dinner program to mark the end of your adventure with your guide and our representatives.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel.
Note: All of the above-mentioned trekking hours and distances are estimations and should only be used as a general guideline.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel pick up and drop in private car/van
- 3 Nights accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast- Twin Sharing 3*
- 13 Nights stay in Lodge/Guest house / Basic Tea House/ during the trek.
- An experienced English speaking Trekking Guide and a Porter during the trek.
- Salary, food, insurance, and lodging cost for guide and porter ( 2 Trekkers-1 Porter )
- During the Trek, we will have Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee each time only.
- Welcome or Farewell Meals and Breakfasts while in Kathmandu.
- National Park Permit and TIMS for Everest.
- Airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla and return flight to Kathmandu and domestic flight departure taxes.
- Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag that needs to be returned to the office after trek completion.
- Kitbag and T- shirt for you
- Gov. Taxes and Service Charges.
- Ncell Sim Card (Nepalese Sim Card including 20 GB data pack) - Only 1 for a group.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fees.
- International airfare and departure tax.
- Bar bills, laundry, and other expenses of personal nature.
- Travel insurance including evacuation.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu, expect welcome and farewell dinner
- Tips for local staff, guides, and porters.
- Desserts, Hot Shower, Hot Water, Wi-Fi, Mineral Water.
- Extra nights in Kathmandu
FAQs
The Trek requires two permits:
1) Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and
2) Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit.
The Nepal Tourism Boards office in Kathmandu or the park’s entrance gate in Monjo can provide you with Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit for NRS 3000.
The fee for citizens of SAARC nations is NRS 1500.
You must complete the permit application and present your passport or a copy of your passport. You must be in Lukla to obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. The permission costs NRS 2000 and may be acquired at the rural municipality counter on the outskirts of the settlement.
You won’t have to worry about waiting for permits since the Alpine Club of Himalaya or our guides will take care of everything.
Everest Region Trek is one of the most facilitated trekking destinations in the country, providing basic to luxury ones.
In this trial, you will be provided with a variety of cuisine to choose from. Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, western as well as continental meals. As the region has small tea houses to luxury hotels the facilities, they provide are basic to grandeur according to your budget.
Similarly, drinking water is accessible with natural water supplies which are untreated, so direct use of the water is not recommended, you may refill boiling water or cold filter water from any of the teahouses. However, if you buy a water purification tablet, chlorine drops or utilize SODIS (sunlight assisted) filtration procedures for further assurance, saving money, and reducing plastic pollution.
Accommodations are available in trekking lodges, teahouses as well as several hotels all along the trail, providing basic well-maintained, and reasonably luxury 5-star ones with additional needs according to your budget. Tea houses on the trail vary in quality and price, depending on the amenities they feature.
For trekkers who want to Camp, various campsites are available along the.
The best season for trekking to the Everest region is during autumn and spring, the months of September, October, November, March, April, and May.
During the autumn season, the months of September, October, and November the weather is clear with warm temperatures and the visibility is great. As the weather is mild it’s very easy to get around the region.
The spring season of March, April, and May are also the best time to visit the Everest region, marking the end of the winter, the spring season brings a change in the topography of the region and the destination comes to life with endless rows of different colored rhododendron, moss and orchid draped trees, colorful undergrowth stretching for miles and the snowy white mountains peaks on the backdrop of clear blue skies.
Monsoon season is not favorable for trekking as the weather gets harsh and it’s hard to get around the country with frequent landslides and floods. So usually, monsoon season is avoided by trekkers.
In the winter season, the area receives a high amount of snowfall, covering most of the trail, and access is denied to most of the regions of Everest, making it impossible to trek.
We use private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. Our only flights are from Kathmandu to Lukla and return.
Gokyo and Everest is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus!. We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek.
The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal, it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General:
• All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be
• returned after the trek)
• Duffle bag (has to be returned after the trek)
• A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above
• 3,000m)
• Daypack
• Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
• A pair of half gloves
• A warmer hat that covers the ears
• Sunglasses
• Neck warmer
• Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
• Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands:
• A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
• Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body:
• long sleeve t-shirts
• Thermal tops
• wool jacket or pullover
• Sports bras for women and girls
• Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body:
• Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
• windproof and waterproof trousers
• warmer trousers
• Comfortable trekking pants
• Extra casual sport pants
Footwear:
• A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
• Pair of sandals
• 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
• Sock liners
• Light shoes and sneakers
First Aid Kits and Medicines:
• Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
• Blister treatment cream or similar
• Insect / anti-itch ointment
• Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
• Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
• Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
• Water purifying pills
Note: Our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well.
Extra things:
• Comfortable trekking poles
• Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
• Power bank and music players
• Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
• 4 passport size photos with original passport
• Water bottle & filter
• Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case
• you want to change your flight date)
• Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full cooperation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Write a Review