Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek Via Cho La Pass - 16 Days

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Duration
16 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Maximum Altitude
Approx. 5,644m above sea level
Group Size
2-20
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking and Helicopter Ride
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

The Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass is one of the thrilling adventure routes in the Everest region that takes you to the Everest Base Camp (EBC) at an elevation of 5,364 m above sea level from Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass. Instead of following the traditional trekking trail from Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trekking itinerary via Cho La Pass, it proceeds through a less-traveled route that passes by Dole, Gokyo, Dragnak/Thangna, and Dzongla via Chola Pass, and finally to the base of Mount Everest.

The side trip to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) and Kala Patthar (approx. 5,644 m) above sea level during the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trip via Cho La Pass ensures that you are well acclimatized to the high-altitude Himalayan environment with low levels of oxygen and can enjoy complete 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges. On a clear day, the panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu are simply a haven of bliss from Gokyo Ri, while Kala Patthar is much famed for the closest view of Mount Everest without summiting the peak itself.

While the overall cost of the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass may vary based on the changes made, such as a helicopter return instead of trekking for several days to get back to Lukla, the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trekking Cost via Cho La Pass, including for the years 2025 and 2026, is affordable. Our comprehensive trekking packages, such as the Everest Three Passes and Gokyo Lakes Trek, including the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hike via Cho La Pass, cover all the trekking logistics and ensure a hassle-free experience.

Rated moderate to challenging in difficulty level, it is considered a more suitable option for seasoned trekkers and climbers. For those seeking an epic Himalayan journey, untouched natural and cultural beauty with a touch of solitude, and the trip to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo and Cho La Pass, this is just the right trek for you. Contact us now and reserve your seat for 2025 and 2026. Book early and get exclusive discounts, including on group bookings with more than 10 members. While we take care of all trekking essentials, you make the best out of the journey.

What to expect during the trekking journey to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo via Cho La Pass?

The Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trekking Tour via Cho La Pass is in the Khumbu region of Nepal and offers you an exciting route with scenic twists. From Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, trekkers then traverse off the beaten trail to reach Dole and Gokyo. Nearby is Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), which offers you a 360-degree view of the Himalayas. Spending adequate time in and around Gokyo Lakes begins the second phase of the Himalayan voyage.

It is to reach Everest Base Camp, which takes initiation with the crossing of the Cho La Pass (5,420 m). The journey overall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, making it extremely rewarding. However, it is a must that trekkers are well prepared for rugged, remote, and challenging Himalayan terrain with steep ascents and descents. Due to high altitude, lack of proper acclimatization can trigger acute mountain sickness (AMS), which, if left untreated, can at times take serious forms of HAPE and HACE.

Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hiking via Cho La Pass - Is this trip right for you?

Yes, the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hike via Cho La Pass is a dream destination for trekkers seeking a real adventurous experience that is full of raw Himalayan wilderness, authentic Sherpa culture, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Like rewards like challenges, the trekking route serves as an excellent solitude alternative to the often tourist-influxed Everest Base Camp and rewards you immensely. It is a must that you are ready for the physical and mental demands it puts you through.

Therefore, Gokyo to Everest Base Camp hiking via Cho La Pass is a perfect destination for experienced trekkers and climbers, and especially those seeking a more serene experience. The chilly temperature, unpredictable Himalayan weather, and arduous alpine environment in remote areas make it a must that you are healthy, mentally determined, and trained at least three months prior to the trip departure date. With such preparation, it is considered doable even for beginners.

How to prepare yourself for trekking to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo via Cho La Pass?

Since the Gokyo Lakes to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass is a slightly more technical route than the standard Everest Base Camp Trekking in the Everest Himalayas of Nepal, preparation also tends to be quite intense for it. Regardless of who you are—seasoned, beginner, young, or aged—physical conditioning with cardiovascular exercises like jumping, running, swimming, cycling, or at least stair climbing is a must. For uneven trails, muscle-strengthening activities are of the utmost importance.

To keep yourself familiar with the demanding nature of high-altitude trekking and climbing conditions in Nepal, including for the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass, such as thinner air, variable weather, and basic living conditions, research properly and consider multi-day hiking in local terrain with a backpack. Mentally, also having a flexible mindset is a must; also, learning to accept the lead of professionals and follow the acclimatization schedule once on the trail is also essential.

What should you pack for the combined Gokyo Everest Base Camp trekking via Cho La Pass?

Trekking to Everest Base Camp from Cho La Pass requires proper preparation, gear, and equipment. Variable weather in the blink of an eye means one must be prepared for all sorts of climatic conditions. Therefore, always dress in three layers with moisture-wicking base layers, fleece jackets, and a waterproof outer shell. Carry only those needed, and the comprehensive Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass is not without trekking pants, warm hats, gloves, thermal underwear, sturdy trekking boots, and pairs of thin and thick socks.

While we insist that you purchase personal hygiene and medication by yourself, the essential trekking gear and equipment come under the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hiking via Cho La Pass package cost, including for the years 2025 and 2026. It is so that you do not have to spend a larger sum in a single trip if you are planning only one. At Skybound Adventure, for colder nights, we provide an extra sleeping bag for a comfortable stay. Backpack, hydration system, first aid kit, and other must-haves for Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hiking via Cho La Pass gear and equipment that we manage for you.

Turquoise lakes, passes, and peaks all in a single Trip - Join us now for 2026 and 2027!

The Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trip via Cho La Pass is among those epic Himalayan journeys where adventurers are rewarded in each step they take. From lush valleys to vast Himalayan terrain and the bluish natural gem of lakes, followed by snow-capped mountain giants perched deep into the sky, it has it all. The mountain pass connects the outer world to the hidden Himalayan realm of serene natural beauty and unspoiled Himalayan culture, which is all about existing in harmony, not far from its people and nature itself; the experience is magical and transformative.

At Skybound Adventure, due to the optimal weather conditions with almost 100% mountain flights, moderate temperature, dry trekking trails, and clear skies, we offer fixed departure and are liable for the years 2026 and 2027. Join our group, or customize the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hike via Cho La Pass and enjoy a personalized experience. Solo, family, or private, let us know your style of trekking. Budget, luxury, or standard, we plan meticulously so you can relish in the hassle-free experience in the heart of the mountains.

Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek Via Cho La Pass - 16 Days Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), a representative from Skybound Adventure will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. If your flight is scheduled in the morning, you will have ample time to rest and explore the lively town of Thamel.

Max Altitude: 1,330 m/4,634 ftMeals: Complimentary-DinnerAccommodation: Standard Hotel
Day 02:

Rest Day

Before you directly hop on the strenuous high-altitude Himalayan expedition, it is a must that you are well acclimatized to the Himalayan weather and its culture so you can avoid altitude sickness and cultural misunderstandings.

Max Altitude: 1,330 m/4,634 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: Standard Hotel
Day 03:

Drive to Manthali, Ramechhap, to Lukla (2,860m) to Phakding (2,610 m)

The Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass officially begins this day with a drive to Manthali, Ramchhap. From here, you board a short and sweet flight to Lukla and then begin trekking until you arrive at Phakding overnight.

Max Altitude: 2,860mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 04:

Phakding (2,610 m) to Namche 3,440 m)

Now you leave Phakding behind to arrive at the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar. The trek begins early in the morning, takes a small break at Monjo for permit registration, and then continues along the dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. Suspension bridges, streams, and mountain views—the hike is worth it.

Max Altitude: 3,440mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 05:

Namche - Rest Day

Beginning from approx. 1,400 m to reach 3,440 m above sea level, it becomes essential to let your body adapt to the high-altitude Himalayan surroundings before you ascend further, so that you do not see any health complications. Hike up Sleep Low, explore the village to the fullest, and take ample rest.

Max Altitude: 3,440mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 06:

Namche (3,440 m) to Dole (4,038m)

From Namche Bazaar, instead of following the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, trekkers now pave the way through a less trodden route that leads them to Gokyo Lakes, and the hiking for the day calls it a day at Dole. Peaceful and away from crowds, the unspoiled culture ofthe Himalayan locals warms your heart.

Max Altitude: 4,038mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 07:

Dole to Gokyo (4,750m)

It is one of the most significant Gokyo to Everest Base Camp trekking experiences via Cho La Pass when you cross the Cho La Pass (5,420 m) itself from Dole and enter the hidden realm of Gokyo Lakes. The scenic contrast of the turquoise water lake and snow-capped mountain peaks is one of a kind.

Max Altitude: 4,750mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 08:

Gokyo-Rest (Hiking Gokyo-Ri/5,357m)

While you are in Gokyo Lakes, hiking to Gokyo Ri is a must. Trekking early in the morning, you are offered expansive mountain views to appreciate the serene ambience and unique perspective of several Himalayan ranges to the fullest. It also helps you with acclimatization.

Max Altitude: 5,357mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 09:

Gokyo to Dragnak/Thangna (4,700m)

Trekkers leave the Gokyo lakes and villages behind and trek to the base of Cho La Pass, Dragnak/Thagna. The amazing serenity includes snow-bathed trails, fewer human settlements, and a lack of crowds in remote areas, all preparing for a dormitory-based room.

Max Altitude: 4,700mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 10:

Thangna/Dragnak to Dzongla via Chola Pass

It is one of the significant days of the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass, which includes crossing the Cho La Pass itself. Beginning early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon storms, today, trekkers call it a day at Dzongla and spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,420 mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 11:

Dzongla to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep

Everest Base Camp (EBC) from Dzongla is a matter of a few hours of walking. After adequate rest at Dzongla, you finally make it to the foot of the majestic top of the world, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), taking in all that it has to offer. For the night, you descend to Gorak Shep.

Max Altitude: 5,364 mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 12:

Gorak Shep to Dingboche (Morning Hike to Kala Patthar)

The ascending trail ends today after a morning hike to Kala Patthar, and the descent continues from Gorak Shep until you arrive at Dingboche. The air gets warmer, villages larger, and forest areas denser. The walk is pleasing; however, do not forget to maintain your pace to avoid injuries, accidents, and other health issues.

Max Altitude: Approx 5,644 mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 13:

Dingboche to Namche (3,440m)

Through the villages of Pangboche and Tengboche today, you will trek from Dingboche to make it to Namche. The mountains, which appeared right above the head, now seem distant. Beginning early in the morning, by lunchtime, you would have made it to the vibrant town of Sherpas and rested.

Max Altitude: Approx 3,440mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 14:

Namche to Lukla (2,860m)

You are almost at the end of the Gokyo Lake to Everest Base Camp Trekking via Cho La Pass. As usual, after breakfast and warm tea, you begin retracing the route that takes you to Lukla from Namche. En route are Monjo and Phakding, with rhododendron, oak, and pine forests eventually leading you to Lukla.

Max Altitude: Approx 2,860mMeals: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local-Tea-House
Day 15:

Lukla to Manthali to Kathmandu

The trek to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass concludes this day, at first with a flight to Manthali and then a drive to Kathmandu. Take in all that you can; it's the last day in such serenity, and you are back to hassling in the city.

Max Altitude: Approx 1,400mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: Three-Star Hotel
Day 16:

Final Departure!

Based on the Trekking to Everest Base Camp Via Cho La Pass from Gokyo Lakes, today, you will bid your final goodbye to Nepal, the country of majestic hills and mountains. Three hours before your scheduled flight, our representative drops you off at TIA. Wish you a safe journey. Thank you for choosing our service!

Meals: Breakfast

Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek Via Cho La Pass - 16 Days Cost Details

Includes
  • All international and domestic pickup and drop off on a tourist vehicle.
  • A briefing session for insight into essential trekking documents, insurance papers, permits, and personal identification.
  • Twin sharing/double accommodation in Kathmandu for three nights in a three-star hotel.
  • Twin-sharing accommodation during the entire trip with attached toilets and hot showers, in lower elevations.
  • Seasonal fruits and some cookies as snacks for quick energy gain.
  • Every day meal as per your standard choice with a cup of hot drink like tea or coffee.
  • Well-experienced, helpful, and friendly English-speaking government-licensed individuals, including their salary, food, accommodation, essential gear, and equipment, along with comprehensive insurance.
  • All documentation processes, paperwork, permits, government taxes, and office service charges.
  • General first aid medicine kits, including Diamox and an oximeter for the prevention of associated complications.
  • A duffle bag to adjust your outfits with a minus-20-degree warmer down jacket and sleeping bag for use while you are trekking. And 1 non-refundable trekking map.
  • 24/7 customer service by highly experienced mountain specialists.
Excludes
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu are outside of the itinerary.
  • International flight and visa to Nepal.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Personal expenses like hot showers, Wi-Fi, internet, and phone calls.
  • Any kind of beverages: alcoholic, hard and soft (cold) drinks, mineral or filtered water bottles, boiled or hot water, snacks, and some other personal expenditures.
  • Porters carry a maximum of 25 kg shared between two people. To show appreciation for their hard work, be it is a driver, it is expected to tip them.
  • The company is not liable for retrieving your extra food and drinks, instead of your wrong choice, dissatisfaction, or any other extra orders.
  • It is necessary that you trust the company you are traveling with; hence, we kindly request our dear clients not to compare costs with other companies. You can never be a winner if you don’t have any beliefs within yourself.
  • Any expenditures apart from those listed under the cost inclusion section.

Essential Information

When is the best time to go trekking to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass?

Spring and autumn, ranging in Nepal from March to May and September to November, are the unrivaled ideal times for high-altitude trekking and climbing, and it is the same for treks to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass. Even the Himalayan weather, which is known for being notoriously unpredictable in these months of the year, is mostly favorable, with very low chances of rain, precipitation, and snowfall, a common encounter if you are trekking in summer or winter.

Regarded as off-season for alpine rambling, summer/monsoon is due to the risk of slippery, muddy, and leech-filled trails, and winter is because of extreme cold in the Upper Himalayas; temperatures can go below freezing point at night and during snowfall. If prepared well and packed well, you may embark on the trekking route. But since it is usually with an extra layer of seasonal challenges, it is always good to book your trek to Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass from Gokyo Lakes in seasons with the best views, mild temperatures, and good conditions of hiking routes: spring and autumn.

Can you get private rooms and Western menus on the way to Gokyo to the Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass?

Yes, while private rooms, Western menus like pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches, internet services, hot showers, and charging of electronic devices are considered privileged facilities in the remote Himalayan region with limited infrastructure that can get scarce with the increased altitude, ruggedness, and remoteness of the area, during the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass, in larger villages, with prior notice, these are arrangeable for you at some additional cost to the standard Everest Trek price.

Or, directly book your Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass with Skybound Adventure. Our comprehensive package price includes the provision of lodges with attached bathrooms and heating systems whenever possible, so you have a smoother experience. However, the best thing to do is keep your expectations realistic and remain flexible for any changes in the itinerary and basic conditions of meals, accommodation, and other amenities, where everything has to be transported by porters and yaks.

Things that make trekking to Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass from Gokyo Lakes difficult - Who can do this trip?

Rated as moderate to challenging, largely depending upon individuals' fitness levels and experiences, the high altitude resulting in arduous Himalayan surroundings with steep ascents and descents, and the unpredictable Himalayan weather after several days of long walks are the factors that make the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass. Reaching the highest point of 5,644 m above sea level at Kala Patthar, unlike during the regular Everest Base Camp (EBC) trip, you will even before you make it through other high-altitude landmarks like Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and Cho La Pass.

Therefore, to complete the combined trek to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass, proper acclimatization, preparation, and packing with a good level of physical and mental conditioning are a must. But, if you are someone with a faint heart or issues with their knees and lungs, it is a must that you take advice from a concerned authority and decide for yourself. Otherwise, for beginners ready for managing fatigue, cold, nighttime temperature, and possessing a good level of fitness, trekking to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass is feasible.

Must you get permits for the trek to Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass from Gokyo Lakes?

Yes, the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass takes place within the Sagarmatha National Park, one of the natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites from Nepal; therefore, permits are a must to not miss and essential to legally gain access to the region for adventure purposes. Specifically, the ones that you need for this trip to Everest Base Camp from Gokyo Lake via Cho La Pass, one of the high mountain passes in the Everest Himalayas, among the ones that you also cover during the Everest Three Passes Trek, are two.

The Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These permits are obtainable through local registered trekking companies such as Skybound Adventure. While solo trekking is also allowed only when accompanied by a professional guide, it is always wise to purchase a comprehensive Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass. Much to the delight of the package cost, it covers meals, lodging, transportation, permits, guides, porters, extra sleeping bags, and also trekking gear and equipment, so all you are left with is to enjoy the journey to the fullest. Contact us and book now.

What to do to prevent symptoms of acute mountain sickness en route to Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Hiking via Cho La Pass?

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a common phenomenon in the higher Himalayas when trekkers ascend to high altitude rapidly, and is the result of a lack of proper acclimatization. 3,000 m above sea level, it can be concerning to anyone regardless of one’s age, experience, and fitness level. While the symptoms usually include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite, if not taken care of at the time, they can lead to severe HAPE and HACE.

There are things that you can do to prevent it even before it begins, including while you pursue the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trekking route via Cho La Pass. These include proper acclimatization, the best strategy to hike up, sleeping low with an itinerary that allows ample time for exploration, resting when needed, and making sure of a journey at your own pace. Others are to eat healthy. Trying ginger and garlic soups often works as a natural remedy, and avoiding tobacco, cigarettes, and alcoholic products is a must.

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