17-Day Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek with Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar

17 Days Duration

Experiences

About This Tour

The Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is one of the most exciting high-altitude adventures in Nepal's Everest region, combining the stunning Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Cho La...

Duration: 17 Days · Tour type: Private · Activity level: Hard · Accommodation: Not included · Transport: Included · Wheelchair access: No · Cities: Kathmandu, Everest Base Camp-South, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Phakding, Lobuche, Kala Patthar, Gorakshep, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, Sagarmatha National Park, Pheriche, Khumjung · Languages: English, Hindi, Japanese

Know before you go: The Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek. Good preparation, proper acclimatization, and suitable equipment are important for a safe and enjoyable journey.; Fitness: Good physical fitness and regular walking or hiking experience are recommended.; Altitude: The trek reaches above 5,400 m, so altitude sickness is a serious consideration. Follow your guide's advice and walk at a steady pace.; Acclimatization: Acclimatization days in Namche and Gokyo are important. Do not rush the itinerary.; Cho La Pass: The pass can be steep, rocky, icy, or snow-covered depending on the season. Conditions can change quickly.; Weather: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Flights to and from Lukla can be delayed or cancelled because of poor weather.; Accommodation: Teahouses and lodges are basic at higher elevations. Rooms are generally simple, with shared facilities in many places.; Food: Meals are available at teahouses, but food choices become more limited at higher elevations.; Drinking water: Carry a reusable water bottle. Use filtered, boiled, or properly treated drinking water.; Electricity: Charging facilities are available in many lodges but usually cost extra.; Wi-Fi: Internet access is available in some villages but may be slow or unreliable at higher elevations.; Cash: Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees because ATMs and card facilities may not be available in remote areas.; Permits: Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permits are required.; Clothing: Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, thermal wear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and good trekking boots.; Equipment: Trekking poles, sleeping bag, headlamp, water bottle, and suitable high-altitude gear are recommended.; Travel insurance: Comprehensive insurance covering trekking at high altitude, medical treatment, emergency rescue, and helicopter evacuation is strongly recommended.; Best seasons: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are generally the preferred seasons for this trek.; Respect local culture: Dress respectfully around monasteries and religious sites and follow local customs.; Flexibility: Keep extra time in your travel schedule because Lukla flights and mountain weather can cause unexpected delays.; Farewell dinner in Kathmandu is included only if it is confirmed in the final itinerary.

About Namche Bazaar

Nepal

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar tour guides from Everest Global Hub can help you acclimatise in the soaring heights of Nepalese Himalayas – think treks, teahouses and more

Explore Namche Bazaar Nepal All destinations

What's Included

The package covers the main transportation, permits, and trekking staff expenses required for the 17-day journey. Our team will arrange the necessary logistics from Kathmandu to Lukla, throughout the trek, and back to Kathmandu.
Domestic flight tickets from Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu
All land transportation mentioned in the itinerary
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit
Experienced, government-licensed trekking guide
Porter service
Guide and porter salary
Guide and porter food and accommodation during the trek
Guide and porter insurance
Guide and porter transportation expenses
Trekking route planning and coordination
Necessary local staff and logistical support
Airport transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Trekking equipment required by the guide and support team
Government and local taxes applicable to the included services
Basic first-aid support and assistance during the trek
Kathmandu hotel transfer after returning from Lukla
All services specifically mentioned in the itinerary or package inclusions

Not Included

The following expenses are not included in the trek package and should be covered separately by the traveler:
International flights to and from Nepal
Nepal tourist visa fee
Travel insurance covering trekking, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation
Food and accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek
Personal food, drinks, and beverages not mentioned in the package
Bar bills and alcoholic drinks
Bottled or mineral water
Hot showers during the trek
Wi-Fi and internet charges
Mobile phone and battery charging fees
Personal trekking equipment and clothing
Sleeping bag and down jacket, if required
Personal medical expenses and medicines
Emergency helicopter evacuation and rescue costs
Extra accommodation or meals caused by flight delays, bad weather, or itinerary changes
Tips for guide, porter, and other support staff
Personal expenses, shopping, souvenirs, and laundry
Entrance fees for places not mentioned in the itinerary
Extra activities and sightseeing
Any additional transportation not mentioned in the itinerary
Any expenses arising from natural disasters, political disturbances, strikes, or unforeseen circumstances

Itinerary

1

Day 01

Flight to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Kathmandu to Lukla - Phakding, 2,610 m Flight: about 30-40 minutes | Trek: 3-4 hours Your adventure begins with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. After meeting your guide and porters, begin walking through small Sherpa settlements and beautiful mountain scenery. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and passes several prayer wheels, mani walls, and suspension bridges before reaching Phakding. The first day is intentionally short, allowing your body to adjust gradually to the increasing altitude. Overnight: Phakding
2

Day 02

Trek Along the Dudh Koshi to Namche Bazaar

Phakding to Namche Bazaar - 3,440 m Trek: 5-6 hours After breakfast, continue north along the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross several suspension bridges decorated with colorful prayer flags and pass through Monjo and Jorsale before entering Sagarmatha National Park. After the park checkpoint, the trail becomes steeper. You cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge and climb through pine and rhododendron forest toward Namche. Near the final section, you may get your first distant views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Namche Bazaar is the main Sherpa trading and cultural center of the Khumbu region. Overnight: Namche Bazaar
3

Day 03

Acclimatization Hike Around Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar - 3,440 m Hike: 3-4 hours Today is an important acclimatization day. Rather than staying completely inactive, take a gradual hike to higher elevations and return to Namche to sleep. A popular route takes you toward Syangboche and Everest View Hotel, around 3,880 m. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy impressive views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Thamserku. You can also visit Khumjung Village and explore the Sherpa Museum and Namche market. After the hike, return to Namche and relax. Overnight: Namche Bazaar
4

Day 04

Leave the Main Trail for Dole via Gokyo Valley

Namche Bazaar to Dole - 4,200 m Trek: 5-6 hours Today you leave the main Everest Base Camp trail and follow the quieter route toward the Gokyo Valley. The trail climbs above the Dudh Koshi Valley through rhododendron and pine forests. You pass through Kyangjuma and Sanasa before continuing toward Mong La. From the trail, enjoy beautiful views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Khumbila, and surrounding peaks. The route then descends and climbs gradually toward Dole, a small mountain settlement surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery. Overnight: Dole
5

Day 05

Ascend Through Alpine Terrain to Machhermo

Dole to Machhermo - 4,470 m Trek: 4-5 hours The trail continues north through the Gokyo Valley. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more open and alpine, with fewer trees and increasingly dramatic mountain views. You pass through small settlements such as Luza before reaching Machhermo. From here, you can see impressive peaks including Cho Oyu and surrounding Himalayan mountains. Machhermo is also an important acclimatization stop before continuing toward the high-altitude Gokyo Lakes. Overnight: Machhermo
6

Day 06

Follow the Ngozumpa Glacier to Gokyo

Machhermo to Gokyo - 4,790 m Trek: 4-5 hours Today is one of the most beautiful days of the trek. The trail follows the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, toward the Gokyo Valley. You pass the first and second Gokyo Lakes before reaching the beautiful Dudh Pokhari, the third Gokyo Lake. The turquoise lake sits beneath spectacular Himalayan peaks, creating one of the most memorable landscapes in the Everest region. Finally, arrive at Gokyo Village, located beside the third lake. Overnight: Gokyo
7

Day 07

Acclimatization Day and Gokyo Ri Exploration

After enjoying the summit, descend carefully to Gokyo for breakfast and rest. If conditions and energy allow, you can explore the surrounding lakes or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the valley. This day is also valuable for preparing your body for the upcoming Cho La crossing. Overnight: Gokyo
8

Day 08

Cross Glacial Terrain to Thangnak

Gokyo to Thangnak/Dragnag - 4,700 m Trek: 3-4 hours Today is relatively short because tomorrow is the most demanding day of the trek. Follow the trail along the Ngozumpa Glacier toward Thangnak, also known as Dragnag. The route crosses glacial terrain and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. After reaching Thangnak, rest well and prepare your equipment for the early start over Cho La Pass. Overnight: Thangnak/Dragnag
9

Day 09

Cross Cho La Pass and Descend to Dzongla

Thangnak to Dzongla via Cho La Pass - 5,420 m Trek: 7-9 hours Today is the most challenging day of the trek. Start early and climb toward Cho La Pass, reaching approximately 5,420 m. The trail becomes steep and rocky, and depending on the season, icy or glaciated sections may require appropriate equipment and careful guidance. From the top of the pass, you are rewarded with spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Baruntse, and surrounding peaks. After celebrating the crossing, descend carefully toward Dzongla. The descent can be tiring because of loose rocks and steep terrain. Cho La conditions can change quickly, so the crossing should always be assessed by an experienced guide. Overnight: Dzongla
10

Day 10

Rejoin the Main Everest Trail to Lobuche

Dzongla to Lobuche - 4,910 m Trek: 4-5 hours After breakfast, follow the relatively short trail toward Lobuche. The route passes through a rugged high-altitude landscape with spectacular views of Cholatse, Taboche, and Lobuche Peak. You gradually reconnect with the main Everest Base Camp trail. After arriving in Lobuche, rest and prepare for tomorrow's visit to Everest Base Camp. Overnight: Lobuche
11

Day 11

Reach Everest Base Camp and Stay at Gorakshep

Lobuche to Everest Base Camp - 5,364 m - Gorakshep Trek: 7-8 hours Today you finally reach Everest Base Camp. The trail follows the Khumbu Glacier and its rocky moraine toward Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest, continue toward Everest Base Camp. The trail is rocky and undulating, and the high altitude makes the walk demanding. At Base Camp, enjoy views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks and celebrate reaching the base of the world's highest mountain. After spending time at Base Camp, retrace the trail to Gorakshep. Overnight: Gorakshep
12

Day 12

Sunrise at Kala Patthar and Descent to Pheriche

Gorakshep to Kala Patthar - Pheriche, 4,240 m Kala Patthar: about 5,545 m | Trek: 7-8 hours Wake early and climb Kala Patthar, the famous sunrise viewpoint above Gorakshep. From the summit, you can enjoy an exceptional panorama of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding Khumbu peaks. After taking photographs and enjoying the sunrise, descend to Gorakshep for breakfast. Continue downhill toward Pheriche through the Khumbu Valley. After several demanding days at high altitude, the significant descent to Pheriche brings welcome relief. Overnight: Pheriche
13

Day 13

Descend Through the Khumbu to Tengboche

Pheriche to Tengboche - 3,860 m Trek: 5-6 hours The trail descends through the beautiful Khumbu landscape toward Tengboche. Along the way, enjoy views of Ama Dablam and surrounding mountains. Tengboche is famous for Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu region. If the monastery is open, you can visit and experience the peaceful Buddhist atmosphere. Overnight: Tengboche
14

Day 14

Forest Trail Back to Namche Bazaar

Tengboche to Namche Bazaar - 3,440 m Trek: 5-6 hours After breakfast, descend through rhododendron and pine forests. The trail passes through Kyangjuma and Sanasa before reaching Namche Bazaar. Enjoy your final evening in the lively Sherpa town. You can explore the market, purchase souvenirs, or relax with your trekking team after completing the high-altitude section. Overnight: Namche Bazaar
15

Day 15

Final Trekking Day Back to Lukla

Namche Bazaar to Lukla - 2,860 m Trek: 6-7 hours Your final trekking day takes you back along the Dudh Koshi Valley. Descend toward Jorsale, Monjo, and Phakding, crossing suspension bridges along the way. From Phakding, continue toward Lukla. Although most of the route is downhill, there are some uphill sections. Arrive in Lukla and celebrate the completion of your Gokyo-Cho La-Everest adventure. Overnight: Lukla
16

Day 16

Fly to Kathmandu and Enjoy a Farewell Evening

Lukla to Kathmandu - Rest, Shopping & Farewell Dinner After breakfast, take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, enjoying your final aerial views of the Himalayan mountains. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax after the trek. Later, enjoy free time for shopping in Thamel, where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, trekking gear, and gifts for family and friends. In the evening, celebrate the successful completion of your Gokyo-Cho La Pass Trek with a traditional Nepali farewell dinner, accompanied by local cuisine, cultural music, and traditional dance. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
17

Day 17

Final Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at your hotel depending on your flight schedule. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for your international flight. Say goodbye to Nepal with wonderful memories of the Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Sherpa villages, and the magnificent Himalayas.