Gokyo Lakes and Chola Pass Trekking via EBC

Duration: 18 Days(5)of 136 reviews

Overview

  • Duration 18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 5,555m | 18,225Ft
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Everest Region
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn

Highlights

  • Hiking to Gokyo Ri and crossing Cho La pass
  • Exploration of Gokyo lakes
  • Everest base camp and Kalapatthar viewpoint
  • Reach 5545 meters by passing through spectacular scenery
  • View of the longest and the most prominent Himalayan glaciers
  • Cultural heritage tour in Kathmandu
  • Best 18 Days Trip in Nepal featuring Mount Everest Base Camp
  • Mesmerizing flight to Lukla from TIA, Kathmandu
  • Pass through the heart of the Sherpa country
  • Explore the historically rich Sherpa monasteries
  • Take in the view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and many other peaks from various viewpoints
  • Explore the surprisingly remote yet modern market town of Namche Bazaar
  • Tour the ancient heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley

Gokyo Lakes and Chola Pass Trekking via EBC Video

An adventure trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes with Cho La pass is a trip that gives you a thrilling adventure of a lifetime. This challenging hike in the Himalayas involves admirable views of the pristine lakes, high soaring mountains, impressive glaciers, and the base of the highest mountain in the world and involves a high Himalayan pass crossing.

This epic trip follows the classic trail to reach the base camp of Mount Everest and the hike to a minor snowless peak Kala Patthar for amazing views of the top of the world. The trek then moves towards the Gokyo Lake system, the high-altitude lake system comprising six turquoise lakes. To reach Gokyo, we will pass through Cho La Pass, the highly sought-after Himalayan pass among trekkers. In addition to the beauty of Gokyo lakes, we will also enjoy Ngozumpa glacier and the trek to Gokyo Ri, a vantage point that provides an unparalleled view of the peaks. After our detour to Gokyo, we will meet the main trail at Namche Bazaar.

The best thing about this trip is that you need to add just a few extra days to your itinerary. Compared to the classic EBC trek that will complete in 15 days, 18 days of the journey will take us to a relatively less-traveled and unspoiled trekking route and amazing vistas. Double the fun for 3 extra days.

NOTE: We recommend that you arrive in Kathmandu a few days earlier before you start the trek. Since the day of the trek starts with a flight, albeit a short one, it gives you a chance to get over jet lag and rest before the trek starts. It will also provide you with enough time to double-check your gear and shop for anything you might have missed.

What to expect from the trek to Gokyo Lake via EBC?

The Everest base camp trek in itself is an amazing trip that attracts a lot of trekkers worldwide. Add to this, the detour to picturesque Gokyo Lakes, it becomes a trekking route really hard to beat. This trek is a true testament to the beauty of the Himalayas and to your own willpower.

The trek is an example of the lodge-to-lodge trekking style that appeals to adventure-seeking individuals. You will spend your time enjoying the majestic views of the Himalayan landscape and a warm Sherpa hospitality that will never become old. Every day, you will trek for 6 to 7 hours in the beautiful mountainous terrain giving it your everything. For your efforts, this trek will not cease to award you in one way or another.

  • A classic Himalayan trekking route with breathtaking views
  • Multiple incredible viewpoints to watch Everest and other peaks: Kala Patthar, Cho La Pass, Gokyo Ri, and more.
  • Take in the beauty of Gokyo Lakes, a crystal clear lake system tucked between the mountains
  • Pass through the challenging and rewarding Cho La Pass to reach the lakeside settlement of Gokyo
  • Enjoy the hospitality and delicacies of the local Sherpa people
  • Learn about the history of the Khumbu region and mountaineering in Nepal
  • Listen to the mountain fables from the local people from local guides
  • Drink at the highest Irish pub in the world in the famous Himalayan town of Namche Bazaar

Should I attempt this trek?

Well, yeah! If you consider yourself to have moderate fitness and are somewhat physically active, you can complete this trek with no issues. The challenge that this trek possesses is what makes completing the trek sweet. All you need for this trek is a little physical and mental preparation.

However, you should have access to the following information before you decide upon embarking on this journey. Upon reaching EBC and Gokyo lakes and returning to Lukla, you will walk for 16 days, including two acclimatization days. On the average trekking day, you will walk for up to 9 hours. The difficulty for this trek is right up there with some of the most challenging treks. 

This trekking package involves reaching the base of Everest and taking a detour to the Himalayan lake system of Gokyo via the Cho La Pass. You will encounter steep climbs, rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and so on. In addition, you will be braving the challenges with a backpack and also battling the symptoms of altitude sickness at the same time. So, if you think you might not be ready for this trek, you can start with a less strenuous trek.

How do I prepare for the Gokyo Lake trekking?

The trek to Gokyo Lakes via EBC is a challenging one physically and mentally. Embarking on this journey without preparation is dangerous and can even be life-threatening at times. Physical exhaustion, lack of gear, altitude sickness, and exposure to weather are some of the challenges you will be facing on a daily basis. So, it’s vital to prepare beforehand before attempting the Gokyo Lakes trek.

The preparation for trekking to Gokyo Lake starts with physical preparation. You should start with a regimen that focuses on cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance training. Workouts like walking, hiking, running, and cycling for 30 minutes a day will build up your cardiovascular endurance. You can also incorporate squats, deadlifts, and lunges in your routine in order to increase strength for the trek. 

If possible, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, and long walks on varied terrain will help prepare for the trek. Practice carrying the backpack and using the gear that you have bought for the trek.

Using the gear beforehand will help you adjust to them. If any of the gear is inappropriate for you, you can exchange it for something that better fits you, so that, you won’t get blindsided during the trek itself. Proper gear will help you battle the uncertain weather while trekking to Gokyo Lakes. There’s nothing frustrating like busting the walking poles on a day of strenuous hiking.

Packing for this trekking requires attention to detail. There are risks of underpacking or overpacking, which are both not good situations to be in. Check out our guide to pack for Everest base camp which is the same for this trek as well.

Itinerary

Show Detail ItineraryClose Detail Itinerary

  • Accommodation: Arushi Boutique Hotel

We will be awaiting your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a smile on our faces. After exchanging greetings, you will be transported to our own hotel, Arushi Boutique Hotel, an amazing accommodation in the heart of the tourist capital, Thamel. After you take well-deserved rest, we recommend you stroll the streets of Thamel in the evening. 

  • Accommodation: Arushi Boutique Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast

We will meet in the morning after breakfast to discuss our trip. This is the time to ask any questions to your team leader if you have any and to go over your gear. After the meeting, you will embark on a cultural tour of Kathmandu valley. The amazing UNESCO listed architectures are a joy to behold and they provide you an insight into the history of our little country.

We will visit the following sites:

  • Swoyambhunath
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square
  • Pashupatinath
  • Bouddhanath

Be sure to pack your bags tonight as we have a flight to catch early in the morning the next day. You can leave anything you don't need for the trek at our reception and we will keep it safe for you.

  • Trek Distance: 3.8 miles (6.2 km)
  • Duration: 45 minutes flight & 3 hours trek
  • Max Altitude: 9,334 ft. (2,846 m)
  • Resting Altitude: 8,563 ft.(2,610 m)
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We will take an early morning flight to Lukla airport, also known as Tenzing Hillary airport after the pioneers of mountaineering in the Everest region. The flight is nothing as you have ever taken before. After the rather exciting flight, you will find yourselves in the town of Lukla. Be sure to withdraw Nepalese money as here, you will find the last ATM for the rest of the trip.

Today, you will find a pleasant path along the beautiful Dudh Koshi river. You will pass teahouses and Sherpa villages of the mountains which hint to you about the trail to come the following days. We will stop at Phakding in a teahouse after a short hike.

  • Trek Distance: 4.6 miles (7.4 km.)
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Max Altitude: 11286 ft. (3440 m.)
  • Resting Altitude: 11286 ft. (3440 m.)
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a short hike the day before, today is the day we really get into the spirit of trekking. We start early in the morning after a quick breakfast. 

We will face a gradual incline today with a few steep climbs along the way. We cross various suspension bridges high above the Dudhkoshi river and its tributaries. The trail follows the curve of the Dudhkoshi river as we enter Sagarmatha National Park from the village of Monjo. Here, the team leader will take care of your pass and documentation. The national park is home to several endangered animals like the clouded leopard, red panda, snow leopard, and more. 

From Hillary bridge, we leave the river behind and start upwards towards Namche Bazaar passing through the lush rhododendron forests. After climbing for 2 to 3 hours, we reach Namche Bazaar, your home for another two nights.

  • Trek Distance: 4.3 miles (7 km.) approx
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Max Altitude: 13000 ft. (3962 m.)
  • Resting Altitude: 11286 ft. (3440 m.)
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We've ascended 800 meters and reached 3440 meters and that is why it is a good time to acclimatize. However, we will not just take a rest today.

From a viewpoint near Namche Bazaar, you will see the first views of Mount Everest. For better views of Everest and other peaks, we will hike up to Syangboche airstrip (3748 meters), the highest in Nepal, and Everest View Hotel (3962 meters), one of the highest hotels in the world. The hotel which provides amazing views of the landscape has become a local landmark. On your way up, you will see Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Thamserku, and more. 

We will later come back down to Namche Bazaar and spend the rest of the day basking in the local culture. Here, you will find museums where you can learn about mountaineering and Sherpa culture. You will also find amazing pubs, bakeries, cafes, and local shops where you can indulge your cravings. Note: Be sure to avoid alcohol on your way up.

  • Trek Distance: 7.45 miles (12 km.) approx

  • Duration: 5 hours

  • Max Altitude: 12,665 ft. (3,860 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 12,665 ft. (3,860 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

With enough rest, you are today ready to face the steep climb that follows immediately after leaving Namche Bazaar. A moderate trek follows right after the climb and continues until Phungithanga. To reach there, you will pass through the small Sherpa settlements of Sanasa and Lawi Schyasa.

From Phungithanga, you will face another climb through dense rhododendron forests for approximately two and a half hours to reach the magnificent monastery of Tengboche. It is a Sherpa village where you will find a helipad, cafes, lodges, and teahouses. It is where you will spend the night today.

 

  • Trek Distance: 5.7 miles (9.2 km.)

  • Duration: 5 hours

  • Max Altitude: 14,469 ft. (4,410 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 14,469 ft. (4410 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we try to wake up as early as possible to witness a splendid sunrise from Tengboche. You will descend to Deboche after breakfast passing through the green forest for most of the trail.

The trail today follows the curves of the Imja river, which originates from Imja Tse. A short while after Deboche we cross the river via a suspension bridge and walk along another side of the river. The trail takes us to Pangboche, home to the oldest monastery in the Everest region. 

From there, we pass through the minor settlements of Shomare and Orsho. Nearing Dingboche, we find ourselves climbing steeply.

  • Duration: 5 hours

  • Max Altitude: 16,732 ft. (5100 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 14,469 ft. (4410 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

It’s a big day today. It’s the first time you cross the 5000-meter on this trek and what a way to start. We start the hike early in the morning after breakfast to beat the heat and for amazing views of the surrounding area.

After returning from the hike and having lunch, you can walk leisurely around the village of Dingboche. Bring a book to read while enjoying the local cuisine in the afternoon.

  • Trek Distance: 5.2 miles (8.5 km.)

  • Duration: 5-6 hours

  • Max Altitude: 16,207 ft. (4,940 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 16,207 ft. (4,940 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, you get back on the main path to Everest base camp after a well-deserved acclimatization break. You will climb a difficult uphill path to get to Dusa (4,503 m). It will take roughly two hours to get to Dughla (4620 m.) from here. You will find yourselves at the base of the picturesque Khumbu glacier. You will climb along the glacier on steep terrain to reach the top of the Dughla Pass (4830 m.)

We continue the climb to reach Lobuche village, meanwhile enjoying the amazing scenery of peaks like Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and many 7000-ers.

  • Trek Distance: 9.32 miles (15 km.)

  • Duration: 6 hours

  • Max Altitude: 17,598 ft. (5,364 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 16,942 ft. (5164 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Reaching the base of Mount Everest doesn’t come without a challenge. Today, we brave the icy rocky terrain after leaving Lobuche walking along the Khumbu glacier. We reach Gorakshep, a settlement on an ancient lakebed where we will have lunch. 

After lunch, we hike for two more hours to reach Everest base camp. The first on the list of amazing destinations on this trek. Rejoice and take a lot of pictures or just admire nature. We will soon head back to Gorakshep for the overnight stay. If you want to stay at Everest base camp, inform in advance to the Himalayan Scenery Treks team.

  • Trek Distance: 6.8 miles (11 km.)

  • Duration: 6 hours

  • Max Altitude: 18,517 ft. (5,644 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 15,889 ft. (4,843 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we start our day early to reach the top of the snowless peak of Kala Patthar. Seen between Nuptse and its own extension peak, you can find the most iconic view of Mount Everest from here. We return to Gorakshep and make our way to Dzongla.

The trail splits after crossing Lobuche on the way back. From Lobuche, a hike of almost two hours northeast from the main trail will take you to the village of Dzongla.

  • Trek Distance: 6.8 miles (11 km.)

  • Duration: 6 hours

  • Max Altitude: 17,782 ft. (5,420 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 15,420 ft. (4,700 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we will trek to a photographers’ paradise, Cho La pass. The trail leaves Dzongla and travels up the rocky, narrow rocky valley. A challenging and demanding ascent follows the flat trail which will take us to the pass of Cho La. Cho La pass is one of the best viewpoints in all of the  Everest region. You may have to use special gear like crampons for this climb depending upon the season. Consult with us before you pack for this trip.

After crossing the pass, we descend slowly towards Phedi village. From here, we continue mostly a downward trail with a few steep climbs to reach the village of Thangna. If you start early, you will have enough time to explore the village in the afternoon and the evening.

  • Trek Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km.)

  • Duration: 4-5 hours

  • Max Altitude: 18,517 ft. (5,644 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 15,889 ft. (4,843 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

It’s an adventurous and challenging day today. We will trek along the Ngozumpa glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas at 36 kilometers. The trek will start from the western side of the glacier to reach the eastern side. 

The trail today has crevasses and cairns along the way, so take your steps carefully. We continue on the trail to reach Tanjung Pokhari passing through the villages of Nha and Machhermo. From here, you will find a fork in the trail. You will choose the one that goes to Gokyo valley. 

As we move ahead, the magnificent views of the lakes, Dudh Pokhari, and the mountain Cho Oyu come into view. We will move towards the shore of Dudh Pokhari where we will spend the night today.

  • Trek Distance: 11.2 miles (18 km.)

  • Duration: 4-5 hours

  • Max Altitude: 17,575 ft. (5,357 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 13,245 ft. (4,038 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we start a little earlier than typical to catch the sunshine from the top of Gokyo Ri. It is yet another fantastic viewpoint to watch multiple 8000-ers like Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. Adding to the beauty of the vista are the turquoise lakes that look like the mirror to the sky.

We return back and make our way along the Dudhkoshi river. The downhill trail takes you to the village of Dole for an overnight stay.

  • Trek Distance: 6.8 miles (11 km.)

  • Duration: 4-5 hours

  • Max Altitude: 13,245 ft. (4,038 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 11,286 ft. (3,440 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

It’s a relatively leisurely hike today. We start with a flat trail leaving Dole and later, descend to the villages of Samde and Thamte passing through some suspension bridges along the way. It’s a casual walk to the town of Namche Bazaar.

With a free afternoon, indulge in fun activities in this Himalayan town. Celebrate your achievement with a cold one in the highest-situated Irish pub in the world and listen to the stories of your fellow travelers.

  • Trek Distance: 8.3 miles (13.6 km.)

  • Duration: 8 hours

  • Max Altitude: 11,286 ft. (3,440 m.)

  • Resting Altitude: 9,337 ft. (2,846 m.)

  • Accommodation: Tea House

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

From Namche Bazaar, it’s a steep drop until Hillary bridge. It’s a flat hike from there passing through the villages of Monjo and Phakding to reach Lukla.

  • Duration: 45 minutes flight

  • Accommodation: Arushi Boutique Hotel

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We take an early flight to Kathmandu. You will have the entire day off. Take a rest and stroll down the streets of Thamel and enjoy the lifestyle or you can just take a rest.

We hope you had a good time trekking with Himalayan Scenery Treks. We will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport. See you again.

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Cost Details

Included

  • Private vehicle transportation to and from the airport
  • Three nights' lodging with breakfast at Kathmandu in a boutique hotel
  • Three meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) a day during the trekking period
  • Best twin-share lodging accommodations available for the duration of the trek
  • Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and back
  • Very knowledgeable, helpful, and amiable guide
  • Porters, including their food, lodging, pay, and equipment (1 porter for every 2 people)
  • Accident coverage for all employees
  • Hiking route map, hiking T-shirt, and trip completion certificate
  • First aid kit including oximeter to assess heart rate, pulse, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes
  • Assist with evacuation and rescue if needed
  • Fee for Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) and permit to enter Sagarmatha National Park 
  • Government and service charges

Excluded

  • Travel insurance for trekkers
  • International airfare for travel to Kathmandu and back
  • Entry Visa for Nepal (Rate: $30 - 15 days, $50 - 30 days, and $125 - 90 days)
  • Local Government Tax - $20
  • Personal expenses including snacks and drinks
  • Individual trekking gear
  • Hot showers while on the trail
  • Internet and phone calls (Unless it's free)
  • Tips and gratuities for drivers and trekking staff (Porters & Guides)

Useful Info

Gokyo Lakes: What is the Best Time to Trek?

We advise hiking to Gokyo lakes from March to April in the spring and from October to November in the fall for the best experience. Because of the weather conditions, it’s the best time to trek in the Himalayas and see spectacular mountain vistas is during these months. The Everest region attracts hundreds of visitors from all over the world. 

During the peak trekking season, we get warm clear days and chilly mornings and evenings which is ideal for hiking. The region gets lively and you get to see flourishing flora and fauna. The higher altitude areas are still chilly and the temperature can drop to the negative during the night, however, with meticulous packing, it is not an issue.

What do I need to pack for Gokyo Lake trip?

The trek to Gokyo lakes and Everest base camp needs a lot of planning. The environment up in the mountains is cold and unpredictable and you need quality gear to keep yourself warm and comfortable. It’s difficult to get hot showers and you may not want to take a cold shower, so, it’s even more necessary to bring enough clothes to last you for the trip. Packing for 18 days can get pretty heavy and that is why you need to choose lighter options from clothes to walking poles and more.

Note: You will get a porter for every two trekkers who will carry from 10 to 12 kgs per person. For convenience, it's better you bring a duffel bag instead of a rucksack and a daypack to carry your essentials like water, camera, phone, etc.

Check out our complete packing and equipment guide for all the details.

However, here’s a list of things you should pack for the trek.

  • Upper Body: Shirts and t-shirts (include a full sleeve for sun protection), thermal underwear, puffy jacket, insulated outer shell jacket

  • Lower Body: Thermal underwear, trekking trousers (soft shell and hard shell), merino wool socks, underwear

  • Head & Hand: Sun cap, wool/fleece beanie, waterproof gloves, glove liner

  • First Aid Kit: Bandage, water purification tablets, antibiotics, aspirin, paracetamol, cold medicine, ibuprofens, diamox, handy plaster, strepsil, iodine

  • Toiletries: Wet tissues, hand sanitizers, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, moisturizer, lip guard

  • Miscellaneous: Rucksack/duffel bag, daypack, trekking poles, trekking shoes, sandals, head torch, raincoat, water bottles, waterproof socks, power bank, book, snacks

  • Travel Documents: Passport with visa, 4 passport-sized photos, insurance documents, credit card

What kind of food and accommodation can I expect during this trek?

The meals served during the Everest base camp trek are nutritious and modest. Namche Bazaar offers a wide range of options, including pizza, burgers, steak, bakery items, beverages, and so on. While trekking, the package includes three meals per day. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served with tea or coffee. You'll enjoy this trek if you're a vegetarian.

The staple meal is Dal Bhat with vegetables and curries. It's an authentic Nepali meal that's high in nutrients, tastes great, and is less expensive. Chapati, momo, sandwiches, Tibetan bread, porridge, thukpa, thenduk, and other dishes are available. Breakfast consists of toast, eggs, oatmeal, muesli, soup, and other items.

The tea houses run by local families provide lodging during the trek. Although the services are limited, the hospitality is exceptional. You spend the night in a twin-shared room (for a single room, let us know in advance). The rooms are small, but they have clean, comfortable mattresses and blankets, as well as great views out the window most of the time. The restroom can be either private or shared.

Both boiled and mineral water are available along the way. Boiling water is far more cost-effective. Almost every time your reusable water bottle runs dry, you can refill it for free. Mineral water, on the other hand, will cost you between USD 2 and $5 per liter.

What kind of Insurance do I need to trek to Gokyo lakes?

Travel insurance is required as part of the booking process for the Everest base camp trek. Only travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation (up to 6000 meters) and medical bills is accepted. You should be aware that traveling at a high altitude in a remote area carries certain risks.

We can easily provide you with prompt medical assistance if you have comprehensive travel insurance. Evacuation and other medical services can be prohibitively expensive without travel insurance. Similarly, you can include flight cancellation and baggage loss/theft in the insurance.

Here are the insurance companies recommended for high-altitude treks in Nepal, including the Everest base camp trek.

  • Allianz
  • Sports Cover Direct
  • Tyrol Air Ambulance
  • ADAC
  • Roland
  • Med Deutch

Cancellation Policy

Please notify us in advance if you are unable to make your trip. We will refund you according to our booking terms and conditions and the time frame available. Flights may be delayed or cancelled due to weather or other unforeseeable factors. In such cases, we will make every effort to adjust your reservations and rearrange the schedule.

Still Need Help?

Please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you within 1-2 business days. Or call us now:

Phone: +977 9851083619
Email: info@himalayanst.com

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