Trip Planner
Trip Planner

Gokyo Chola and Everest Base Camp Trek

Max. Altitude

5545m

Best Season

Mar-May and Sept-Nov

Activity

Heli Trek

Start / End Point

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Overview of Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek

In the Khumbu region, the Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek is a fantastic journey that leads you to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Valley and Cho-La Pass. The challenging Everest Base Camp hike, including Gokyo Valley, is best suited for intrepid travelers. The best Cho-La pass and the highest base camp in the world are combined in the Gokyo Valley & Everest Base Camp Trek.

This Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek, also known as the fantastic EBC trek via Gokyo Lake, offers stunning scenery, traditional Sherpa culture, a gorgeous Gokyo Lake, and Gokyo Valley in the backdrop of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Cho-Oyu, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhoste, Pumori, and mighty of peaks.

Despite the fact that there are other ways, the route via Gokyo Lake and Cho-La Pass is the most exciting and daring. Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo RI, World's longest and biggest glaciers, Beautiful Sherpa settlement with their own lifestyle and traditions, Mountain villages, old monasteries, vibrant sunrise and sunset views, flora and fauna, Sagarmatha National Park, and more are the main highlights of the Gokyo valley and Everest base camp trek.

Highlights of Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek

  • Views of iconic peaks such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Cho-Oyu, Mt Pumori, Mt Amadablam, and many more.
  • Explore the geographic variations and biological diversity of the Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Delightful journey to Lukla with vistas of lush, green hills, lovely towns, and verdant fields.
  • Discover the enigmatic Gokyo Valley as well as its surrounding glacier lakes and moraines.
  • Experience Sherpa Culture & Taste Local Cuisine.
  • Traditional Sherpa settlements and their distinctive culture, customs, and way of living.
  • Adventurous Travel Route to the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes via Chola Pass.

Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek Itinerary

day
01

Helicopter Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla & trek to Phakding

Dangerous lukla airportOn the first day of EBC Gokyo Chola pass trek, the guide will pick you up from your respective hotel and drive you to Kathmandu Domestic Aiport (20 min drive from the Thamel-tourist hub). The flight to Lukla takes 35 min. After landing in Lukla you will meet with the porters who will carry your luggage throughout the trek.

We will have our breakfast and start our trek to Phakding. Phakding is a short descent down to Dudhkoshi river. The way to Phakding is comparatively easier with suspension bridges and stone-paved trekking trails. The first day is a short trek which will take around 3-4 hrs. from Lukla. You can have your Lunch on the way or directly upon reaching Phakding.

Maximum Altitude

2,623 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

4 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

Transportation

35 min Flight

day
02

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

On the second day of EBC Gokyo Chola pass trek, we trek to Namche Bazar. After having breakfast, we start the uphill journey to Namche Bazaar. On the way, we will find villages like Monjo, Jorsaley, etc.

Monjo is the checkpoint and entry point for Sagarmatha National Park. We stop for lunch in Jorsaley and continue our trekking to Namche Bazaar.

We reach Hillary Bridge. After Hillary Bridge the trail up to Namche is uphill. The curvy zig-zag route can be challenging but our guide will set the pace with water breaks and rest.

It is also the place where you see Mt. Everest for the first time while walking on the trek in case of clear weather.

Maximum Altitude

3,440 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

6 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
03

Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar and excursion Namche and Syangboche

Everest View From NamcheToday after breakfast, we visit Hillary Museum to see Clear views of Everest, Lhoste, Amadablam, Thamserku, etc. Then we hike up to Syangboche to acclimatize with the weather and high altitude. Hike to Syangboche takes about 3-4 hrs. We can also visit Hotel Everest View (3960m) ( one of the Highest 04-star hotels in the world).

After returning back to Namche, we have our lunch and you have free time to roam around Namche Bazar for shopping and refreshment, beverages, etc.

Maximum Altitude

3,880 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

4 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
04

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole

We pack our bags, have breakfast, and start trekking toward Dole on the fourth day. The path up to Kyamjuma is paved and easy to walk on. From Kyamjuma up to Mong Danda, it is a strenuous windy, and uphill trail.

We will take a break and have our Lunch in Mong Danda (3950m). After that, we descend up to Phorste Tenga and again climb up to Dole (4200m). Close views of Tabuche, Amadablam, and Thamserku bless you throughout the day.

Maximum Altitude

4,200 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
05

Trek from Dole to Machermo

On the fifth day of the EBC Gokyo Chola pass trek, after breakfast, we start trekking towards Machermo. It’s not too difficult to get from Dole to Machhermo. It is essentially a traverse that is slightly uphill and acquires a net elevation of 1,200 feet; for most people, this is a half-day trek that allows for some rest and acclimatization.

However, the view is getting better all the time. Cho Oyu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world at 26,864 feet, begins to loom above you.

Your evening’s destination, Machhermo, isn’t much on its own like Dole. It is located in a small cove, yet a stunning snow-capped peak rises just above it.

Both towns are mainly Sherpa summer farming and pasture towns that have been transformed into rest spots for trekkers. These hillsides will be lush and flower-filled in the summer and monsoon, with yaks grazing there.

Maximum Altitude

4,450 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
06

Trek from Machermo to Gokyo

Gokyo-Valley-and-Everest-Base-Camp-TrekIt is a comparatively straightway. There is no major uphill trail. The altitude may cause tiredness but with proper acclimatization and hydration, you can reach Gokyo. You will reach Gokyo First lake, then Gokyo Second Lake, and the Biggest and main Lake Gokyo Third Lake.

The Gokyo village sits on the lakeside of this Lake. It is situated in between bug snow-capped peaks. The crystal clear water of Gokyo relaxes all the tiredness.
After a short photo and video-making session, we check in at our lodge and have our lunch. The rest of the afternoon can be spent walking around the lake or resting for the upcoming journey.

Maximum Altitude

4,750 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
07

Morning hike to Gokyo-RI & trek to Thangnak

Early in the morning about 4 or 5, we climb Gokyo Ri, one of the best viewpoints in the Everest Region. Breathtaking views of Cho-yu Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam, and Thamserku can be seen from Gokyo Ri.

After returning from Gokyo Ri – we have our breakfast and start trekking to Thangnak.

Maximum Altitude

5,357 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
08

Trek from Thangnak to Dzongla via Cho-la pass

Gokyo-Chola-and-EBC-trek-wiThe most important day and one of the hardest days. The path is steep and rocky. The top of the Cho-La pass offers majestic views. After crossing we descend down and walk on top pf the glacier-covered in debris and sand. Finally, we reach Dzongla.

We will have our lunch in Dzongla and start slowly for our place of an overnight stay, Lobuche. Lobuche is a small area with a cluster of teahouses and lodges to accommodate trekkers.

Maximum Altitude

5,387 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

7 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
09

Trek from Thangnak to Dzongla via Cho-la pass

One of the most rewarding trekking days of the EBC Gokyo Chola pass trek. We start trekking after breakfast. We travel to Gorakshep first leave our luggage there and hike to Everest Base Camp. We witnessed incredible vistas, and reach one of the most loved adventure destinations, it is a beautiful moment.

We stop there to enjoy and click photos and videos for memories. Then we head back to Gorakshep for our overnight stay.

Maximum Altitude

5,364 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

8 hours Walk

Accomodations

Lodge

day
10

Hike to Kalapathar helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla and to Kathmandu

Everest Trek Gorak ShepEarly morning we hike to Kalapthar to see the amazing golden sunrise on Everest and other mountains. The last day of the EBc Gokyo Chola pass trek ends with a scenic 360-degree bird’s eye view of the Everest Trekking Regions. We arrive at Lukla and head back with helicopter from Lukla to Kathmandu.

Overnight in Lo-Mustang.

Maximum Altitude

5,545 m.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Duration

4 hours Walk

Accomodations

3 Star Hotel

Transportation

1 hour flight

day
11

Departure

Early morning, on flight time board the flight to Kathmandu and end your amazing and memorable journey of Gokyo and Everest Region with Life Himalaya.

Maximum Altitude

1,350 m.

Meals

Breakfast

Equipment Checklist

Required Equipments for Trekking in Nepal

  • Breathable Underwear
  • Sports Bra
  • Base Layers
  • Trekking Shirts
  • Trekking Trousers and Shorts
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Down jacket (insulated jacket)
  • Windcheater (water proof)
  • Sun protection Hat
  • Headband or Beanie
  • Scarf or neckband
  • Gloves (inner and outer )
  • Hiking Boots
  • Trekking Shoes
  • Hiking Socks
  • Thermal Socks
  • Gaiters
  • Duffel Bag
  • Day pack
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses
  • Hydration bladder or Water bottle
  • Head Lamps
  • Batteries
  • Personal towel
  • Swiss army knife
  • Sun lotion
  • Medical & first-aid kit
  • Woolen socks
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Lip Guard
  • Insulated pants
  • Baby wipers

Required Equipments for Climbing in Nepal

  • Water bottle
  • Batteries and bulbs
  • Flashlight
  • Personal towel
  • Swiss army knife
  • Rucksack
  • Sun lotion
  • Medical & first-aid kit
  • Sewing kit
  • Polypropylene/wool socks
  • Other required equipment
  • Sleeping bag
  • Down Jacket
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Trekking shoes/boots
  • Camp shoes
  • Jumperorpile jacket
  • Hiking pants
  • Hiking shirts
  • Full–sleeves shirt
  • T-shirts
  • Sun hat
  • Gloves
  • Woolen hat
  • Long underwear
  • Goggles or sun glasses
  • Gaiters
  • Sun block for lips
  • Light cotton socks
  • Mountain trekking boots
  • Woolen socks to wear with boots
  • Nylon wind breaker
  • Insulated pants
  • Nylon wind pants
  • Long sleeved cotton/woolen shirts
  • Sun hat
  • Long cotton hiking shorts
  • Fleece/wool for climbing
  • Lightweight fleece
  • Sleeping pad (karri mat) or thermarest
  • Down high altitude sleeping bag
  • Down jacket/trousers/vest
  • Light cotton athletic socks and wool socks
  • Water proof climbing jacket
  • Head torch/batteries/bulbs
  • Climbing sunglasses
  • Lightweight thermal/insulated ski gloves
  • Sun screen
  • Warm climbing trousers
  • Wool long underwear
  • Other required equipment
  • Climbing boots
  • Gaiters
  • Ice axe
  • Harness
  • Crampons
  • Karabiners
  • Tapes/slings
  • Snow bars
  • Ice screws
  • Rock pegs
  • Deadmen
  • Crash hat
  • Day bag
  • Rucksack
  • Lip salve
  • T-shirts
  • Ascenders
  • Ascenders
  • Kit bag

What's Included

  • Private Domestic Airport picks up and drops.
  • Complete departure information, about the trek, flight ticket, guide, altitude sickness, and reconfirmation and extend visa service (if necessary)
  • During the flight to Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu, only 15 kg of luggage was allowed. (10 kg big bag & 5 kg handbag)
  • Flight to Kathmandu-Lukla for member and involved staffs
  • Heli returns from Gorakshep to Lukla as well as Lukla to Kathmandu Helicopter.
  • 1 night 03-star hotel  in Kathmandu (with breakfast)
  • Best tea-house accommodation throughout the trek
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included chosen from a lodge menu
  • Twin-share accommodation during the trek
  • As per group size experience, government license holder trek guide, helpful and friendly strong, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff.(5 trekkers 1 assistant guide)
  • A warm Down jacket and four seasonal sleeping bags will be provided during the EBC trekking If necessary (the down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after the trip)
  • TIMS Fee- Trekkers’ Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permits)
  • Sagarmatha National Park trek permit fee & Khumbu Development Committee fee
  • First Aid kits for the staff and the groups including an oxi-meter for checking pulse and heartbeat
  • Services coordination for emergency and rescue operations
  • Government taxes & office service charge
  • Farewell dinner at a reputed Nepalese restaurant
  • Life Himalaya Trekking printed Duffel bag and T-shirts, Everest base camp trail map, etc
  • Achievement certificates

What's Excluded

  • Travel insurance covers 6000,m emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
  • Meals are not quantified in the ‘Meal Inclusions’ in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • International airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa charge.
  • All beverages and other personal expenses.
  • Snacks and other personal expenses.
  • Battery charge, hot showers, internet & international phone calls.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter, and Drivers.
  • Service not mentioned above.

Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek - Essential Information

Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek Difficulty

The EBC Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a relatively difficult trek that traverses through the Everest Region of Nepal. On an average day, the hike requires walking for 3–4 hours. You must hike for 7-8 hours on a demanding day. Likewise, this trek takes you through the icy mountains and lush valleys of the Khumbu Region in Nepal. It combines the traditional classic Everest Base Camp Trek with excursions to Gokyo Lakes and Chola Pass. Trekking in this region will present you with several challenges along the way. The weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, and it changes in no time. This increases the risk of trekking in the Himalayas.

The trek involves long days of strenuous uphill ascents and descents in high-altitude conditions. With up to nine days at elevations reaching almost 5500 meters, it is a challenging but rewarding trek offering amazing views of Himalayan peaks and stunning alpine landscapes. Altitude sickness is another major concern while trekking in the Everest region. Thus, those who plan to participate should be prepared physically and mentally for long days of trekking at high altitudes in this trek.

Food and Accommodation

Gokyo-Lake-and-Everest-BaseAlong the way, you will stay at teahouses of various villages, which offer delicious local cuisine and comfortable accommodations. With meals ranging from traditional Nepali dishes to Western-style food, your every need is taken care of on this trek. These provide basic services such as accommodation, meals, and toiletries to travelers. Your items for breakfast include foods such as pancakes, cornflakes, local bread, chapatti, porridge, egg, toast, Muesli with milk, hash brown potatoes, etc. Likewise, your options for lunch and dinner are almost similar. They include foods such as Daal Bhat, Noodles, Chowmin, Thukpa, Pizza, Momos, tomato soup, mushroom soup, garlic soup, vegetable soup, chicken soup, Spaghetti, etc.

Depending on individual preference, accommodations range from basic camping tents to more comfortable lodges with basic amenities available on this trek. However, Tea Houses are the common accommodation options for the Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek. These houses are run by the locals, who provide you with basic amenities during your stay. They will provide you with facilities such as a hot shower, Wifi, Charging, etc., but they will charge a few extra dollars for it. If you seek comfortable accommodation, you can find luxurious hotels in the lower trails of the Everest region.

Best time for Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek

The best time to go on the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo trek is during the spring season, from late March to May, and the autumn season, from September to November. This period offers pleasant weather and clear skies that yield breathtaking views of Mount Everest and its surrounding peaks. It’s also an ideal time for trekking as temperatures will be mild, with no adverse weather conditions experienced during these months.

Nepal’s national flower, Rhododendron, blooms during the month of Spring, making the trails look colorful. Likewise, Autumn is the festive season in Nepal. Trekking to the Everest region during the Autumn months will help you experience Nepal’s national festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar. Moreover, it is the peak time for trekking in Nepal, and the weather is pleasant, allowing you to witness the breathtaking views of the Everest Himalayas under the clear blue skies.

The majestic views of the Himalayas, lush scenery, and unique culture and traditions make these months the best time for this exciting adventure. Here, winters are typically cold, while summers are typically hot and muggy with high temperatures, which are not recommended. However, you can also explore this trek-challenging route in winter and in monsoon, although conditions may be harsher due to weather and altitude.

Is Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking via EBC the best fit for you?

three-great-passes-of-everest-trekking-routeThere are several factors that determine the suitability of a trek. Likewise, to identify whether a Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking is feasible or not, you can understand the challenges you face while trekking. Moreover, you can also analyze the positives you get while trekking to this region. To begin with, the distance to be trekked during this trek is around 110 km in a span of 11 days. This might be challenging for beginners. Altitude sickness is another concern that might trouble you during this trek. Moreover, you will be reaching an altitude of 5,400 meters from sea level, where hiking up to such a high altitude demands strong physical fitness and stamina.

However, there are many positive aspects that encourage you to opt for this trek. The beauty of the Gokyo lakes and the Himalayas of the Khumbu region are an absolute treat to watch. Reaching the base camp of Mount Everest is something you will cherish for the rest of your life. The panoramic views of Mount Everest from its base are a dream of every trekker worldwide. Moreover, the unique culture of the Sherpa people, their hospitality, and their innocence are something that will remain in your heart forever.

How do you Prepare for the Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek?

Trekking in the Everest region will require good physical fitness and strong willpower to ensure a safe and successful trekking experience. You cannot simply leave for the Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek without proper preparation. You need to ensure several things before you trek in the Everest region. Some of the few things that you need to prepare for the Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek are listed below.

Physical Preparation

Good physical fitness is a must while you trek in the Himalayas. Trekking at a high altitude requires good cardiovascular endurance and stamina to ensure a safe and successful trekking experience. Likewise, you need to prepare yourself for the Cho La Pass trek. You must start preparing a few weeks prior to this trek. You should focus on cardiovascular endurance and stamina to ensure a successful trek.

Proper Acclimatization

Acclimatization is another crucial factor while trekking in the Himalayas. The risks of altitude sickness are very high while you trek in the Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek. Proper acclimatization ensures that you adapt well to the Himalayan weather and ensures a risk-free trekking experience.

Mental Preparation

Mental preparation is essential for the Gokyo, Cho La, and Everest trek due to the physical challenges, high altitude, and unpredictable weather. Trekkers face long days of walking, steep ascents, and potential altitude sickness. This is why you need strong willpower to complete the trek with ease.

Gear and equipment

Gear and equipment are essential for the Gokyo, Chola Pass, and Everest treks due to the challenging terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather conditions. Essential items like sleeping bags, crampons, and trekking poles provide support in icy or rugged sections, particularly on the Chola Pass. Having quality gear and equipment will keep you warm and healthy during the trek.

Permits for Gokyo Chola Lake Trek

The two required permits for this Cho La Pass trek are the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. You can get the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit at the entrance point at Lukla. However, you can get the Sagarmatha National Park permits at the National Tourism Board Office at Kathmandu or at the entry point in Lukla. Unlike other trekking trails where you need the Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS) Card, you won’t need the TIMS Card to trek in the Everest region.

The cost of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality will cost you NPR 2000 for the first four weeks. However, the cost for more than four weeks will cost you NPR 2500 per person. Likewise, the cost of the Sagarmatha National Park Permit is NPR 3000 for foreigners, but the cost is half(NPR 1500) for visitors from SAARC nations. Also, the cost of a Sagarmatha National Park Permit is NPR 100 for Nepali citizens. Moreover, the 13% VAT is applicable to everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is EBC via Gokyo Ri?

The total distance to travel to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Ri is around 110 km. Moreover, it takes you around 11 days to complete this trek, where you will be hiking around 10-12 km daily. Opting for this trek route will provide you the opportunity to trek on one of the alternative paths in the Everest region.

How difficult is the Gokyo Lakes Trek?

The difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp Trek is moderate. There are several challenging ascents and descents in this trek, but anyone with good physical fitness and a strong will can successfully complete it.

What is the hardest part of the Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek?

The 8th-day hike from Dzongla (4,830 m/15,850 ft.) to Cho-la pass(5,387 m/17,673 ft.) is one of the most challenging hikes during the Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek. You will be crossing Chola Pass, one of the Everest region’s high-altitude passes.

How difficult is EBC Trek?

The iconic Everest Base Camp Trek is rated as moderate in terms of difficulty. However, anyone with prior trekking experience and good fitness can successfully complete the Everest Base Camp Trek.

How long is the Gokyo trek?

The Gokyo Trek can be completed in 11 days. You will be covering a distance of around 110 km during this period. It is one of the most adventurous trekking routes in the Everest region, offering panoramic views of the Everest Himalayas.

How much does it cost to go to Gokyo Chola and Everest Trek?

The Cost for Gokyo Chola and the Everest Trek will cost you around $3200. It is an 11-day trek that includes trekking to Chola Pass, Everest Base Camp, and a comfortable helicopter return from the base camp of Mount Everest.

Can you see Everest from Gokyo?

Yes, you can witness the breathtaking views of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks of the Khumbu region from the vantage point of Gokyo Ri. Gokyo Ri is one of the must-visit vantage points in the Gokyo Lake Trek.

How high is Gokyo?

Gokyo village, a key stop on the Gokyo Valley Trek, is approximately 4,790 meters (15,715 feet) above sea level. Nearby, Gokyo Ri, a popular viewpoint, rises to about 5,357 meters (17,575 feet), offering breathtaking views of the Everest region’s peaks and glaciers.

How do I get to Gokyo Lakes?

You can take a helicopter ride to visit the Gokyo Lake or trek for around 10-12 days to visit the Gokyo Lakes. These are the two common possible options to visit or trek to the Gokyo Lakes.

What is the altitude of Everest Base Camp?

The Everest Base Camp sits at an elevation of 5,364 meters from the sea level. It is one of the most popular viewpoint that every trekkers dream to be in. You can witness the breathtaking views of Mount Everest and its surrounding peaks from the Everest Base Camp.

Altitude Gain at the Gokyo Chola and EBC Trek

Altitude in:

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