Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

Gokyo Cho La Pass

A challenging Himalayan trek that blends the Gokyo Lakes with a high pass crossing and the classic Everest route.

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is ideal for trekkers who want a longer, tougher journey with a real sense of exploration. The route leaves the main Everest trail to reach the lakes of Gokyo, then crosses the Cho La Pass to rejoin the classic Khumbu route.

You will walk through Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges, and follow glacier valleys. The pass day is long and steep, with rough trail sections and possible snow, so good fitness and steady pacing matter.

The reward is huge: bright lakes in Gokyo, a sunrise climb on Gokyo Ri, and the dramatic crossing of Cho La. These highlights make this trek feel more remote and wild than the standard EBC route.

At 5,545 meters on Kala Patthar, this is a high-altitude trek that needs good preparation. If you are ready for long trekking days and want a route with variety, this one delivers.

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek landscape view

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

See the Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for a huge mountain panorama.

Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m) for a true high-altitude trekking challenge.

Finish with Everest Base Camp and sunrise at Kala Patthar.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Arrival Day Elev: 1,400 m

• Welcome upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
• Private transfer to hotel; comprehensive trek briefing and gear check.
• Free evening to explore vibrant local markets in Thamel and rest.

Scenic Flight & Trek Elev: 2,850 m / 2,650 m

• Scenic mountain flight offering sweeping Himalayan aerial vistas.
• Arrive at airstrip and assemble with local trekking crew and porters.
• Commence trail walk towards Phakding ft; evening rest at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,440 m

• Trek route: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) , 11,285ft).
• Marvel at panoramic vistas of night skies at Namche, lush pine forests along the trail.
• Arrive at Namche Bazaar ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Acclimatization Day

• Active acclimatization hike to elevated ridge viewpoints around Namche Bazaar.
• Breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramas and exploration of local culture.
• Restful afternoon, hydration, and leisurely walk around the settlement.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,855 m

• Trek route: Trek to Tengboche (3,855 m) , 12,850ft).
• Hours: 5 Distance: 9.2km The Tengboche Excursion will start after having a local breakfast.
• Arrive at Tengboche ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,360 m

• Trek route: Trek to Dingboche (4,360 m) , 14,290ft).
• Marvel at panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains along the trail.
• Arrive at Dingboche ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Acclimatization Day

• Active acclimatization hike to elevated ridge viewpoints around Rest.
• Breathtaking 360-degree mountain panoramas and exploration of local culture.
• Restful afternoon, hydration, and leisurely walk around the settlement.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,930 m

• Trek route: Trek to Lobuche (4,930 m) , 16,175ft).
• Marvel at panoramic vistas of wonderful Himalayan views along the trail.
• Arrive at Lobuche ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 5,364 m / 5,185 m

• Trek route: Trek to Everest base camp (5,364 m) , 17,598ft) Via Gorak Shep (5,185 m) , 17,010ft).
• Hours: 6-8 Distance: 15 km Today is a big day! We start by trudging through Khumbu Glacier, a long and leisurely walk deep into the heart of mountains.
• Arrive at Everest base camp ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 5,555 m

• Trek route: Hike to Kala Pathar (5,555 m) , 18,208ft) Early morning and descend to Dzongla (4,830).
• Hours: 5 Distance: 9.6 km Our trips to Khumbu do not end with your visit to Everest Base Camp.
• Arrive at Dzongla; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

High Pass Crossing Elev: 4,700 m / 5,368 m

• Early pre-dawn start to cross Via Cho La Pass before afternoon high winds.
• Challenging high-altitude ascent rewarded with breathtaking summit panoramas.
• Steady descent to valley floor; celebratory dinner and overnight at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,790 m

• Trek route: Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m) , 15,584ft).
• Hours: 5 Distance: 3.7 km Lastly, we will reach the Gokyo Lakes.
• Arrive at Gokyo ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 4,200 m

• Trek route: Trek to Dole (4,200 m) , 13,270ft).
• Hours: 5-6 Distance: 7 km The adventure of today begins early – a march from Gokyo to the beautiful peak known as the finest viewpoint in Everest, i.e., towards Gokyo Ri.
• Arrive at Dole ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 3,440 m

• Trek route: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) , 11,285ft).
• Marvel at lush alpine forest, crossing scenic suspension bridges along the trail.
• Arrive at Namche Bazaar ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Trekking Day Elev: 2,850 m

• Trek route: Trek to Lukla (2,850 m) , 9,350ft).
• Marvel at lush pine forest, crossing scenic suspension bridges along the trail.
• Arrive at Lukla ft; evening dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay at mountain lodge.

Scenic Flight Elev: 1,400 m

• Scenic mountain flight offering sweeping Himalayan aerial vistas.
• Arrive at airstrip and assemble with local trekking crew and porters.
• Commence trail walk towards Kathmandu eters ft; evening rest at mountain lodge.

Departure Day

• Leisure breakfast at hotel; free time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
• Optional exploration of Kathmandu's historic Durbar Squares.
• Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight.

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu.
Hotel stay in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
Trip briefing, permits, and general trek coordination.
Experienced trekking guide and porter support throughout.
Tea house accommodation during the full trek.
Meals during the trekking days as per itinerary.
Khumbu region permits and necessary local fees.
Staff wages, meals, insurance, and operational costs.
Basic first aid support from the trekking team.
Acclimatization plan and safety guidance.
Route updates based on weather and trail conditions.
Support for Lukla flight arrangements.

Exclusions

International flights to and from Nepal.
Nepal visa fees and personal expenses in Kathmandu.
Personal trekking gear and clothing.
Travel insurance with high-altitude trekking rescue coverage.
Personal snacks, drinks, tips, hot showers, and charging costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits do I need for the Everest region?

You need two main permits: the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Both are arranged on the trail by our guide, and the fees are included in your package.

How do we handle flight delays or cancellations at Lukla Airport?

Lukla Airport operates on visual flight rules, meaning flights are regularly delayed or cancelled due to fog or high winds. We include buffer days in our itineraries. In case of extended delays, we can coordinate helicopter flights (subject to availability and extra charges, often covered by travel insurance).

What is the highest altitude reached in the Everest region?

For standard Everest Base Camp treks, the highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 ft), which offers the best views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Acclimatization is key to enjoying this trek safely.

What are teahouses like in the Khumbu (Everest) region?

Teahouses in the Everest region are relatively well-established. Most offer shared rooms, heated communal dining areas, and menus featuring traditional Dal Bhat, soups, noodles, and pancakes. Hot showers and device charging are available for a small fee.

Is internet and Wi-Fi available on the Everest trail?

Yes, cellular data (Ncell/NTC) works up to Tengboche/Dingboche. Beyond that, you can purchase prepaid Wi-Fi cards from 'Everest Link' which work at most teahouses along the trail, though speeds can vary.

How much cash should I bring on the Everest trek?

While Namche Bazaar has ATMs, they are frequently out of cash. We recommend carrying around 2,000 to 3,000 Nepalese Rupees (approx. $15–$25 USD) per day in cash to pay for extras like Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, snacks, and tipping guides/porters.

Do I need comprehensive altitude travel insurance?

Absolutely. Your travel insurance policy must cover trekking up to 6,000 meters and include emergency helicopter evacuation. Evacuations from the remote Khumbu region can cost upwards of $5,000 USD.