Nepal · Trekking

18-Day Gokyo Chola Pass Trek in Nepal with Everest Base Camp

18 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Hard pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and surrounding alpine scenery
  • 02 Trek across the challenging Chola Pass at 5,420 m
  • 03 Witness panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
  • 04 Discover traditional Sherpa villages and Himalayan culture

Embark on an 18-day trek through the Everest region to discover the pristine Gokyo Lakes, cross the challenging Chola Pass at 5,420 m, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Explore traditional Sherpa villages, traverse glacial moraines, and witness stunning alpine landscapes along less crowded trails. Ideal for experienced and physically fit adventurers, this trek combines high-altitude adventure, culture, and natural beauty for an unforgettable Himalayan experience in Nepal.

Embark on an 18-day trek through the Everest region to discover the pristine Gokyo Lakes, cross the challenging Chola Pass at 5,420 m, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 18 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Hard
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kathmandu, Everest Base Camp-South, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Phakding, Kala Patthar, Pangboche, Gorakshep, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Pheriche
Languages English, Hindi

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Thamel Exploration

  • Arrive in the bustling capital of Nepal, Kathmandu.

  • Our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

  • Take time to rest and explore the vibrant Thamel area, filled with local shops, cafes, and stalls.

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

2
Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

  • Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

  • Prepare your trekking gear at our office and receive practical guidance for the trek.

  • Enjoy the streets and night views of Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Vehicle
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

3
Day 03

Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

  • Take an early morning flight to Lukla, one of the most thrilling airports in the world.

  • Begin the trek through small Sherpa villages, prayer flags, and the Dudh Koshi River.

  • Reach Phakding for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transportation: Air Flight
Accommodation: Teahouse

4
Day 04

Trek Along the Dudh Koshi to Namche Bazaar

  • Trek along the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and walk through lush forests.

  • Arrive at Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the high Himalayas.

  • Witness snow-capped peaks including Kongde Ri, Kusum Khangaru, Thamserku, and Khongeta.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

5
Day 05

Acclimatisation Day in Namche Bazaar

  • Acclimatise with a short hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

  • Explore the oldest Sherpa settlement and local markets.

  • Return to Namche Bazaar for rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

6
Day 06

Scenic Trek from Namche to Dole

  • Begin with a short uphill walk and gradual climb to Sanasa, enjoying views of Mt. Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse.

  • Reach Dole, a peaceful village surrounded by high peaks, for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

7
Day 07

Trek Through Valleys to Machermo

  • Walk along a beautiful trail with gentle ups and downs, passing small huts and rivers.

  • Reach Machermo, known for its wide valley and local legend of a yeti sighting.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

8
Day 08

Trek to Gokyo and Its Glacial Lakes

  • Trek gradually towards Gokyo, surrounded by turquoise glacial lakes.

  • Arrive at the largest Gokyo lake, surrounded by snow peaks above the clouds.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

9
Day 09

Sunrise Hike to Gokyo Ri

  • Begin an early morning trek for sunrise views of Cho Oyu, Mount Everest, and Mount Makalu.

  • Descend back to camp for lunch and rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

10
Day 10

Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier to Dragnak

  • Pass through the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal.

  • Reach the quiet village of Dragnak for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

11
Day 11

Cross Chola Pass and Descend to Dzongla

  • Trek steeply uphill over rocks and snow across the Chola Glacier.

  • Witness dramatic views of icy peaks and colourful prayer flags.

  • Descend to Dzongla for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

12
Day 12

Trek Through Moraines to Gorakshep

  • Descend from Dzongla through rugged moraines and glacier valleys, passing Lobuche.

  • Reach Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

13
Day 13

Everest Base Camp Excursion from Gorakshep

  • Trek across the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp, witnessing climbers preparing for the summit.

  • Return to Gorakshep for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

14
Day 14

Kala Patthar Sunrise and Descent to Pheriche

  • Start early for sunrise views over Mount Everest from Kala Patthar.

  • Descend through Lobuche to Pheriche for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

15
Day 15

Descend via Pangboche and Tengboche to Namche

  • Descend through Pangboche and Tengboche, visiting famous Buddhist monasteries.

  • Enjoy rhododendron forests and hillside traverses with views of Lhotse, Everest, and Ama Dablam.

  • Reach Namche Bazaar for rest and a shower.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse

16
Day 16

Final Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

  • This is the final day of trekking! You will descend steeply back to the Dudh Koshi River, passing the Sherpa villages on your last stretch to Lukla. After reaching Lukla, celebrate your accomplishment with your team for completing the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Teahouse

17
Day 17

Fly Back to Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner

  • Take a flight back to Kathmandu.

  • Rest at the hotel or explore the city.

  • Join a farewell dinner to celebrate the trek completion.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transportation: Air Flight
Accommodation: Teahouse

18
Day 18

Departure from Kathmandu

  • Depart for your journey home with memories of the Himalayas and the Gokyo Chola Pass trek.

  • Appreciate your effort and the incredible adventure.

Gokyo Lakes, Chola Pass, Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp

Where this trip takes you

Gokyo Lakes, Chola Pass, Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 13 cities · 18 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All airport transfers (international and domestic) on a private vehicle
  • Double or twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel for 2 nights in Kathmandu, including breakfast
  • Twin-sharing normal teahouse/guesthouse accommodation during the trek
  • All standard meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), including two hot beverages (at breakfast and lunch) and seasonal fruits after dinner
  • Experienced, first-aid-trained, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
  • Permits for Sagarmatha/Everest National Park and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
  • Porter during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
  • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
  • Trip completion certificate
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes
  • Equipment: duffle bag

What's Not Included

  • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
  • International flight fare and airport departure tax
  • Any beverages, including bottled and boiled water
  • Travel insurance, including high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Any expenses other than those listed in the Price Include section

What to bring

  • AI tops (synthetic or merino)
  • 2 thermal bottoms
  • Fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket
  • Heavy down jacket (for Gokyo, Dzongla & early mornings)
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket
  • Waterproof trekking pants
  • 2-3 trekking shirts (quick-dry)
  • 2 trekking pants
  • 1 pair of warm fleece pants (for evenings)
  • 5 pairs of moisture-wicking underwear
  • 4-5 pairs of warm socks (wool or synthetic blend)
  • 2-3 liner socks (for layering)
  • Accessories
  • Warm beanie/hat (covers ears)
  • Neck gaiter or buff (for wind and dust)
  • Sun hat or cap
  • UV-protection sunglasses (glacier-rated)
  • Lightweight liner gloves (inner)
  • Insulated waterproof gloves (outer)
  • Footwear
  • High-altitude trekking boots (broken-in, waterproof, ankle support)
  • Mountaineering boots (for glacier crossing)
  • Camp shoes/slippers for teahouse comfort
  • Gaiters (to prevent snow entering boots)
  • Backpacks & Bags
  • Daypack (35-45L) with rain cover
  • Duffle bag (~80L) for porters
  • Dry bags for organizing gear
  • Sleeping & Comfort
  • Four-season sleeping bag (comfort rated to -20°C or lower)
  • Sleeping bag liner (for added warmth and hygiene)
  • Inflatable sleeping pad (R-value 4+ for insulation)
  • Personal Items & Toiletries
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+, glacier-grade)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Toothbrush & paste
  • Wet wipes & face towel
  • Quick-dry travel towel
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper (essential!)
  • Personal medications
  • Comprehensive first-aid kit (include altitude medication if prescribed)
  • Trekking Gear & Essentials
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Backup flashlight
  • Water bottles (2 x 1L) or a hydration system
  • Water purification tablets or UV sterilizer
  • Energy bars and high-altitude snacks
  • Lightweight thermos (for hot drinks at altitude)
  • Camera or smartphone with extra memory card
  • Power bank (high-capacity, cold-weather rated)
  • Safety Equipment (Essential for Chola Pass)
  • Microspikes or light crampons (mandatory for glacier crossing)
  • Climbing harness (for safety rope if conditions require)
  • Helmet (recommended for rockfall protection)
  • Emergency whistle
  • Documents & Money
  • Passport copy and passport-size photos
  • Travel insurance (must cover high altitude and emergency evacuation up to 6,000 m)
  • Trekking permits (Sagarmatha + Khumbu Rural Entry)
  • Local currency (NPR - enough for 18 days)
  • Emergency cash (USD for helicopter rescue if needed)
  • Optional (but Useful)
  • Portable solar charger
  • Altimeter or GPS watch with mapping
  • Lightweight book or journal
  • Lightweight insulated mug for tea
  • Duct tape (for emergency repairs)
  • Spare glasses/contact lenses

Know before you go

  • Best time of the year: Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov), when the skies are clear and the weather is stable.
  • The trek rises to 5,420 meters at Chola Pass, and it is very important to get proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.
  • The trek is moderate to difficult and requires a good level of fitness and trekking experience.
  • The tea houses along the trek are very basic, and it is a good idea to carry cash and other essentials.
  • The weather is unpredictable and can change quickly, so it is a good idea to carry warm clothing and waterproof gear.
  • The trails are challenging, and it is recommended that a local guide accompanies you on the trek.
  • This trek is perfect for adventure seekers and those looking for a trek that offers a glimpse of the Himalayas and beautiful lakes.
  • Stay safe and don't let the cold of Everest get inside you. It is risky at altitude, so check your gear properly before purchasing or renting it. Remember, proper gear can make the difference between a successful adventure and a dangerous situation at Chola Pass.
  • Private room accommodation in Kathmandu can be organized at an extra cost.
  • A sleeping bag will be provided if necessary.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 18 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

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Starting from

USD 1,680 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,680.00 — $1,890.00
Double Sharing $1,680.00 — $1,860.00

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