Gokyo to EBC Trek | Cho La Pass & Gokyo Lakes Adventure

Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass

The Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek, crossing the Cho La Pass, is widely considered the ultimate trek in the Khumbu region. It offers a spectacular circular route that avoids returning the same way, maximizing your exposure to the Himalayas. The journey begins with the classic flight to Lukla and the hike up to Namche Bazaar. From there, the trail diverges towards the tranquil Gokyo Valley, home to a series of stunning turquoise glacial lakes. Ascending Gokyo Ri provides one of the finest panoramic views in the world, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The adventure intensifies as you cross the icy Cho La Pass (5,420m) to reach the main Everest trail. You will then visit the legendary Everest Base Camp and climb Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the classic, close-up sunrise view of Mount Everest before descending via Tengboche.

Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Marvel at the breathtaking turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes system.

Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m) for incredible panoramic views of Mt. Everest.

Cross the challenging and thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420m) over an icy glacier.

Stand at the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m) at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall.

Experience the rich Sherpa culture in villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung.

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 to Everest Base Camp Trek via Cho La Pass

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

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.