Bookings Now Open for Nepal Treks, Tours & Climbing – 2026 & 2027
15 Days
Moderate
5,555m
Nepal
2-16 People
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel, Teahouse
The 15-day EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a mixture of the Everest Base Camp and the Gokyo Lakes, which provides a variety of the Himalayan experience. The trail begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and proceeds to Sherpa villages, rhododendron forest, and centuries-old monasteries rich in Buddhist heritage.
Namche Bazaar is a safe place for acclimatization while trekkers gain altitude. The trail goes through Tengboche Monastery and Dingboche, and into the isolated Gokyo Valley. After visiting Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and climbing Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for breathtaking views, trekkers cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m).
After crossing Cho La, the journey continues to Gokyo, where a climb of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This is a challenging trek that needs a high level of fitness, prudent acclimatization, and a strong will, but offers the most spectacular mountain views, immersion into the Nepalese culture, and a once-in-a-lifetime bond to the spiritual beauty of the Khumbu region.
The trek is strenuous and consumes many days of walking through the rocky and high altitudes. The trekkers are expected to be in good physical shape and have some previous experience of mountain trekking. There will be 6-8 hours of walking (occasionally on icy or steep paths), and you will be at heights of more than 5,000m (Cho La Pass 5,420m, GokyoRi 5,357m).
It is necessary to prepare for cardio training and practice hikes. In any case, routes are difficult; e.g., crossing the Cho La Pass can be slippery and necessitate crampons. It is highly advisable to have a guide to steer someone through this kind of terrain. It is best to start the Cho La Pass crossing before 7 am to avoid rockfall or avalanches when the sun warms the ice and snow. Trail is often icy, crampons/microspikes recommended.
Spring (March- May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons to trek. These seasons guarantee the most predictable weather, clear mountain skies, and moderate temperatures during the day. Summer is warm in lower valleys but wet, with rain/mist, muddy/slippery trails, and limited mountain views.
The cold season (December to February) is marked by snowy, deep winter winds, and many lodges close at higher altitudes, though some remain open for trekkers. When hiking during shoulder seasons, expect the nights to be cold (under -10 °C) and that there is a possibility of snow in the high passes. Thick blankets and a warm sleeping bag are needed in all seasons.
A variety of Nepali and Western food (dal bhat, noodles, soups, pasta, and so on) will be served in the teahouse on the trails. Package itineraries generally include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hot drinks (tea, coffee, hot lemon) and soups are favorites with trekkers to keep them warm.
Always drink bottled, boiled, or purified water. Do not drink untreated tap water. Most teahouses sell boiled water for trekkers. Bottled water is rarely available beyond Namche, so rely on boiled or filtered water. Take water purification tablets or a filter for that. Carry hand sanitizer and use it regularly, as stomach infections are as common a risk as altitude sickness. Snacks such as protein bars and chocolates are suggested in case of long days.
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) can be an actual concern in high altitudes. Climbers need to move very slowly and include additional rest days to help with acclimatization. Drink water (3 to 4 liters a day) to keep hydrated. Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills at altitude, as they reduce breathing efficiency and increase the risk of AMS.
Symptoms such as headache, nausea, or fatigue must never be neglected, so descent as soon as they get severe. Carrying altitude medication (Diamox) and a pulse oximeter is highly recommended. Severe signs of AMS require immediate descent. Guides are equipped with oxygen and first aid; however, time and patience are the ultimate prevention measures.
To train cardiovascular fitness and leg strength, do exercises like stair-climbing, cycling, running, and hiking with a weighted pack. Research on high-altitude trekking and preparing for the health problems that arise during the trek is important.
It is necessary to pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy boots. Trekking poles are highly recommended, especially for icy descents, and be prepared for night temperatures below –10 °C at higher camps. Be prepared to spend the day with dedication, strength, and stamina. Fitness is as significant as mental toughness (patience, positive attitude), because sometimes things are quite harsh.
A Nepal tourist visa is usually obtained when most foreigners arrive at the Tribhuvan International airport. In the case of the Everest region trek, you will also have to acquire trekking permits; the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,000 ≈ USD 25) and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee (NPR 2,000 ≈ USD 20).
We will organize these. Bring passport-sized photos and copies of your passport to these. Most of the packages also include domestic flight taxes (Kathmandu-Lukla) and airport charges. Carry your permits and visas when trekking.
While trekking at an elevation above 3,000m, you need to be careful. Never go trekking alone or without a guide, and make sure you enroll with the Khumbu authorities. Only drink water that is boiled or bottled.
Guides usually have satellite phones or radios in case of rescue. Respect the Sagarmatha National Park regulations (e.g, do not disturb wildlife and litter). Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills at high altitudes, especially above 3,000 m, as they increase the risk of AMS. Carry some basic first-aid and personal medicines.
The expedition starts with a domestic flight between Kathmandu and Lukla (30-40 minutes). The Lukla airport (Tenzing-Hillary) is a dramatic airstrip in the mountains, which is considered one of the most exciting flights in the world.
At EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek’s end, most packages include a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (weather permitting) on Day 15. A helicopter evacuation can be arranged in the event of emergencies (through your travel insurance). In Kathmandu, the trail does not have any road, and the airport is reached by road travel (jeep or van).
Trekkers who are interested in Gokyo and EBC have other options. The classic trek of EBC (via Tengboche and Lobuche) bypasses Gokyo Valley and Cho La Pass. A popular variation is the “Three Passes” trek, with Renjo La (5,360 m) added on the return.
Shorter EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek itineraries are also available. On the other hand, some itineraries climb EBC first and pass Gokyo on the descent. If you are short of time, think about a helicopter back from GorakShep or Lukla to Kathmandu. We can customize your journey according to your preferences.
Budget extra for items not included: drinks, tips, and incidentals. Lodges may charge $1 – 3 for hot showers, electricity, and a water bottle. Wi-Fi or charging electronics is usually additional.
Don’t forget to tip your guide and porter at the end of your EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek (about 10-15% of the cost of the trek). There are also slight costs for personal snacks (energy bars, chocolate) and souvenirs. Plan on carrying around $10-20 per day in cash to spend on miscellaneous expenses.
The local language is Nepali, but in the Khumbu Sherpa dialects, Lhoba is common. English is widely spoken by guides, lodge owners, and younger Sherpas, so communication for travelers is usually easy.
Learning a few phrases in the Nepali language (“namaste”, “dhanyabad”) is appreciated. Respect cultural norms, ask permission when photographing people, and remove shoes at the entrances to monasteries.
Electricity is limited on the trail, and it’s often solar/wind powered. Charging phones or batteries can be found in most lodges (usually for a small fee, ~$1 – $2 per charge). During periods of time when generators are in operation, it is best to charge devices overnight.
Carry a power bank in case you don’t find an outlet for charging. Bring your own adapter because the sockets are the same as in Kathmandu. Enjoy the disconnect and take some battery backups.
You will be warmly welcomed at the Tribhuvan International Airport and taken to your hotel in Kathmandu. After you have had some rest, you can visit the busy streets of Thamel or the surrounding temples for a taste of local culture.
In the evening, there’s a welcome briefing with your guide on the trek itinerary, safety tips, and preparation. Relax over dinner, and a good night’s sleep is in order, as tomorrow a great mountain journey starts.
Accommodation: Hotel
Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)
You will take an early morning mountain flight to Lukla, which is a thrilling experience with views of the Himalayan giants. After the meeting with the porter team, start your trek, marching down through Chaurikharka and farmlands to the DudhKoshi River.
There are suspension bridges along the trail, and several small villages, such as Ghat, before it reaches Phakding. Today’s short, easy hike gives your body time to adjust to trekking life. You spend the night in a riverside teahouse in the midst of forests.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 2,860m/9,383ft. (Lukla)
After breakfast, the trek follows the DudhKoshi River through pine forests, crossing several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge draped in prayer flags. At Monjo, permits are checked in case of entry into Sagarmatha National Park.
From here, the trail ascends steeply towards Namche. Along the way, you will see the amazing view of Everest from the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. Arriving at the Sherpa trading center of Namche, you’ll enjoy the busy shops, bakeries, and spectacular mountain views. Here, you will spend two nights acclimating.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,440m/11,286ft. (Namche Bazaar)
Today will be a complete acclimatization day, or an optional hike up to the Everest View Hotel, where we will be able to see good views of Everest, AmaDablam, and Thamserku.
You can also visit Khumjung village on your way up; this has the Hillary School and the monastery. When you come back to Namche, you may visit the Sherpa Museum, drink a cup of coffee in a bakery, or have a much-needed rest. Walking high and sleeping low helps your body acclimatize to higher altitudes.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,440m/11,286ft. (Namche Bazaar)
Leaving Namche, the path follows the contours of the mountainside with amazing vistas of Everest and AmaDablam. After crossing the river at PhungiThanga, you climb steadily through rhododendron and pine forest to Tengboche.
Perched on a ridge, Tengboche Monastery is the spiritual head of the Khumbu. If timing is right, you can join the evening prayers of the monks. The panoramic backdrop of Everest, Nuptse, and AmaDablam makes this stop unforgettable.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,860m/12,664ft. (Tengboche)
Descend through forests to Debuche before crossing the ImjaKhola on a suspension bridge. The trail travels slowly uphill past Pangboche, site of the oldest monastery in the region.
Trees decrease as you climb higher, and views of AmaDablam and Lhotse are predominant on the horizon. Passing Shomare and Orsh, you finally come to Dingboche, a stone-walled village nestling in a broad valley. At the 4,410m altitude, the thinner air starts to be noticed. You will stay for the next 2 nights here for acclimatization.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 4,410m/14,469ft. (Dingboche)
To help with the acclimatization, you will take a rewarding hike up to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m). The steep climb provides close-up views of AmaDablam, and distant Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest peak.
Reaching an altitude of over 5,000 m and descending again will help your body become stronger at higher altitudes. Back in Dingboche, enjoy a lazy day poking around in fields of barley and buckwheat or just relaxing. Nights are colder now, but the peaceful surroundings of the mountains make the stay special.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 4,410m/14,469ft. (Dingboche)
Today, the trail ascends slowly and through an open valley to Dughla, where you will have your lunch. It then ascends sharply to the Thukla Pass (4,620 m), which is characterized by the memorials to the climbers who have died on Mount Everest.
It is an emotional and picturesque location and has a view of Pumori. And proceeding with the Khumbu Glacier, the trail steadily ascends to Lobuche (4,910 m). Slow pacing is required in the thin air, yet the anticipation towards the Everest Base Camp is on the increase.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 4,910m/16,109ft. (Lobuche)
You will walk for three hours through rocky moraine from Lobuche to GorakShep, the last outpost. After reaching GorekShep, have lunch and then continue to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), along wavy paths along the Khumbu Glacier.
Base Camp is identified by prayer flags and cairns. Everest itself is not visible from Base Camp—only nearby peaks and the Khumbu Icefall and it is in the climbing season that you will find expedition tents on the ice. It is impossible to forget the experience of standing 5,364 m next to the impressive Khumbu Icefall. You will spend night in Gorak Shep.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 5,164m/16,942ft. (Gorakshep)
Wake up early to hike Kala Patthar, a steep two-hour walk that is rewarded with a panoramic view of the sunrise of Mount Everest and other giants in the area. Going back to GorakShep to have breakfast, you proceed to Dzongla in the west, passing glacial streams and rocky geography.
Dzongla is a small, remote village that has marvelous views of the Cholatse peak. You are staying at 4,830m tonight, and tomorrow you will set out and cross the tough Cho La Pass. This is a less glamorous and more mountainous portion of the walk.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 5,545m/18,192ft. (Kala Patthar)
It is one of the most challenging yet satisfying days. Leaving Dzongla, you will ascend the steep hill to Cho La Pass (5,420 m) with prayer flags and icy mountains encircling.
Slowly cross a glacier and have lunch at Thagnak. Expect a steep glacial approach, boulder scrambling, and an icy descent toward Thagnak. Moving on over the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest of the Nepalese glaciers, you finally arrive at the village of Gokyo by the lake. It is a very long and hard day, but the turquoise and the beauty of the Gokyo is so peaceful that it is not forgotten.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 5,420m/17,782ft. (Cho La Pass)
Begin with a preliminary ascent of the GokyoRi, a very steep ride that is rewarded by stunning panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and all six Gokyo Lakes, which shimmer beneath. Breakfast may then be taken after going down the valley past Machhermo and Phangga.
The landscape changes to barren alpine and to lush slopes, where rhododendron and juniper are growing. At the end of the afternoon, arrive at Dole, a little village on the hillside. The denser air is nearly comfortable after days above 4,500 m. You will spend the night in Dole
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 5,357m/17,575ft. (GokyoRi)
You will descend through paths covered with woodland and flowers. Passing PortseTenga, you will ascend a short distance to Mong La ridge, which provides magnificent panoramas.
Coming back to the main trail at Sanasa, the route takes one on a smooth and downward path to Namche Bazaar. Reminisce about your amazing journey up into the air and enjoy the perks of civilization. Tonight you can rest in Namche, where the air is stuffy and the reception is very friendly.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 3,440m/11,286ft. (Namche Bazaar)
It is the last trekking day today, and you are going to come back the same way you came, along the DudhKoshi valley. It crosses the suspension bridge for the last time, crosses Monjo to leave the Sagarmatha National Park, and moves on through Phakding.
After lunch, you ascend to the last part to Lukla, where the journey started. You will spend the night in Lukla, full of pride after accomplishing the difficult EBC Gokyo Chola Pass trek.
Accommodation: Lodge
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude: 2,860m/9,383ft. (Lukla)
You will return to Kathmandu, taking an early morning flight out of Lukla, saying goodbye to the mountains. If the weather is clear, you get the last views of the snowy mountains on your way down to Kathmandu.
Once you have been transferred to your hotel, have a hot shower/massage. Shopping in Thamel all afternoon or sightseeing at temples. In the night, have a farewell dinner and cultural performances, and make memories with your group. Your trip to the Himalayas is over; however, the inspiration will live forever.
Accommodation: Hotel
Max Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)
If our standard itinerary doesn't fully meet your needs, we are happy to tailor it to your specific preferences and requirements.
Transportation
Food and Accommodation
Guide and Support Staff
Permit and Expenses
Medical and Gear
Others
International Flights and Visa
Food and Accommodations
Travel and Medical Insurance
Other Expenses
The trip starts with an exciting flight into the Lukla short-runway, surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains. The first panoramic shots of the Khumbu Valley are provided with this dramatic entry.
Namche (3,440 m), the Sherpa capital, is a vibrant town with markets, cafes, and gear shops. It is the ideal acclimatization station, and on clear days, Everest and AmaDablam can be seen.
Everest Base Camp (EBC) (5,364 m) is a highlight for many trekkers, while Kala Patthar (5,545 m) offers the best panoramic view of the sunrise over Everest, with prayer flags and glaciers in the foreground.
One of the most peaceful landscapes in Nepal is formed by a chain of five turquoise glacial lakes (4,700-5,000 m). The biggest of them is Thonak Cho, which is sacred and provides spiritual significance to the trek. From Gokyo you can also see the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, stretching below the Gokyo Valley.
Cho La (5,420 m) is a snow-and-ice-pass that connects Gokyo and the Everest Valley. The crossing is an eye-opener with prayer flags and glacier panoramas.
The park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has icefalls, rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and wildlife, including yak and Himalayan tahr.
Sherpa culture is shown in Tengboche Monastery and in smaller gompas. Cultural experience is also enhanced by such festivals as Mani Rimdu, as well as local hospitality.
The EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek would be appropriate for moderately experienced and fit trekkers. It entails working long days at high elevations. Without any prior experience in the field of trekking, it is advisable to first undergo some training hikes.
But even beginners can get through this trek with proper preparation. To be on the safe side, most first-time trekkers employ the services of a guide and porter and adhere to plans of acclimatization.
You can do this trek in a group tour or as a private trek. Group trips are typically set departure tours; you get grouped and divide the expenses. If you choose a private tour, then you have the flexibility to customize the journey.
If you are an individual traveler here in Nepal, you can join our group tour. In both instances, there are guides and porters to your aid. Flights (Kathmandu-Lukla) are shared (group flight), and on demand, a personal flight may be obtained at an additional price (private flight).
Following the trek, you can continue your stay in Nepal. Most trekkers also take a day off in Kathmandu to visit UNESCO temples in Patan or Bhaktapur or have a rest in Nagarkot viewing the Himalayas.
You may include an Annapurna sightseeing, a Chitwan jungle safari. We suggest that you spend one day resting and exploring Kathmandu Durbar Squares, temples, and markets. Alternatively, you might add GokyoRi back onto the trek.
Solo travelers are welcome. Most companies put the solo clients in small groups or have personal guides. Solo trekkers are also accommodated and supported by trek operators. You can be required to share a teahouse room.
You should make a registration with your embassy and also a safety locator. Guides may be employed, and porters are hired to carry additional weight. The trail is not usually empty during the season, but you will see numerous other hikers.
Nepal has various photogenic places around. Any drone has to be registered by the Civil Aviation Authority and must have been granted special permits. Drones must not fly in the Sagarmatha National Park (Everest region) without getting the approval of the wildlife authorities. Permits are extremely difficult to obtain, so most trekkers cannot legally fly drones here. Commercial drones require the approval of several ministries.
It is also free to take pictures on the trail (people are normally pleased to be photographed), but be cautious. Cameras and tripods are welcome; there can be a ban on photos of wildlife and religious sites.
Coincide your EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek with festive seasons. A well-known Buddhist festival in Tengboche (late Oct/Nov) is called Mani Rimdu, in which masked dances are performed in the monastery. In Namche and Khumjung, people celebrate Gyalpo Losar (Sherpa New Year, Feb/Mar).
During spring, you could hear Dumji dances (invoking rain) in Namche (May/June). At the Tengboche and Pangboche monasteries, Buddha Jayanti (full moon April/May) is a blessing. Check festival dates before planning your trek to coincide with them.
Visa: You’ll get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport or get one from a Nepali consulate prior to arrival. Don’t forget to bring your passport photos.
Currency: Bring sufficient USD or euros to exchange. There are ATMs in Kathmandu and Namche, but they charge a fee.
Packing: You’ll need layers (temperatures will vary from 20 °C in the day to below 0 °C at night). Don’t over-pack, you’ll be able to buy things you forgot in Kathmandu or Namche.
Health: Don’t drink tap water. Drink bottled or boiled water only. Eat at busy places to ensure food is getting frequently rotated. Take what basic medicine with you.
Cultural notes: You can greet in Nepali saying “Namaste.” Shoes are removed at the entrance of temples. Tipping is normal for guides and porters, about 10 – 15 percent of the cost of your trek.
Most days start early. You will typically wake up around 6-7 am, have breakfast by 7 am, and then hike for 5-7 hours (with breaks along the way) to the next tea house. Lunch may be a packed sandwich or a cooked meal while on trek.
You will often arrive at the lodge in the late afternoon (3-5 pm) and rest before dinner, which is around 6-7 pm. You are likely to get into bed by 9 pm. On acclimatization days, you may have a short hike in the morning, or you may have a rest day. Bring a headlamp to navigate the darkness during the early morning trek.
This trek will require patience along with a positive mindset. You will face altitude, cold, and physical exhaustion, so keep a consistent and determined pace. The trek tests your endurance, agility, and stability. You can celebrate small accomplishments to keep the motivation high.
Everybody is moving at their own pace, don’t rush it. The reward is a profound sense of achievement – when you reach GokyoRi or Everest Base Camp after long effort, the views and personal triumph are unforgettable.
It is a 15-day trek which includes Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes and the high Cho La Pass.
The trek is an uphill and strenuous walk and needs great fitness and acclimatization.
The best weather and views are in spring (March through May) and fall (September through November).
Guide is not legally required in Everest region, but strongly recommended for safety, especially for Cho La crossing.
You require a Nepal tourist visa, the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,000 ≈ USD 25), and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee (NPR 2,000 ≈ USD 20).
You will find basic teahouses with twin beds and shared bathrooms along the route.
You should pack warm clothes, hiking shoes, poles, sunscreens, and the necessary personal equipment.
Never drink untreated tap water. Safe options are bottled water, or water that has been boiled, filtered, or purified with tablets.
To reduce the chances of having altitude sickness, gradually climb up, rehydrate, and come down at once in case of severe symptoms.
Most of the villages have mobile networks and paid Wi-Fi in some of the lodges.
Electricity is available in teahouses for a small fee. Carry a power bank as backup since charging facilities can be limited.
Yes, tipping is expected for the guides and porters, around 10% of your trek cost.
Weather can create delays in flights, which can be accompanied by waiting or boarding helicopters.
Yes, the trek can be combined with cultural visits, Annapurna expeditions, or sightseeing by helicopters.
You will gradually ascend from Lukla (2,860 m) → Namche (3,440 m) → Dingboche (4,410 m) → Lobuche (4,910 m) → Gorak Shep (5,164 m) → EBC (5,364 m) → Kala Patthar (5,545 m) → Cho La (5,420 m) → Gokyo (4,750 m) → Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) → return via Dole/Namche.
Not legally required by Nepal, but practically mandatory with all operators and essential for Cho La Pass treks. Make sure your policy covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.
Yes, you will get experienced guides and porters as part of your trek packages.
To fly your drone, you will need permits, and it is not permitted to fly your drone in Sagarmatha National Park.
Gokyo involves the possibility of greater views from glacial lakes, and the route goes over Cho La Pass, but EBC goes straight to base camp.
You should budget extra for water, hot showers, wi fi, snacks, tipping, visas, and either local or imported souvenirs.
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