Nepal Region

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

Difficulty Challenging

Duration 15 Days

Max. Altitude 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

Best Season Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Lodging & Meals Tea House & Hotel

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

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek landscape view

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

01

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

02

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

03

Finish with Everest Base Camp and sunrise at Kala Patthar.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

1

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We welcome you at the airport, transfer you to the hotel, and help you settle in.

2

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

A short mountain flight starts the trek, followed by an easy walk to Phakding.

3

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We follow the Dudh Koshi river and climb to the busy Sherpa town of Namche.

4

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

A rest day with a short hike to help your body adjust to the altitude.

5

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We leave the main EBC trail and climb into quieter forest and ridge paths.

6

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

The valley opens up with good views as we gain steady altitude.

7

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We reach the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and settle into the lakeside village.

8

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

An early hike gives a huge mountain panorama, then we rest in Gokyo.

9

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We walk past the upper lakes toward the glacier and settle in Thagnak.

10

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

A demanding day across the pass with steep sections and possible snow.

11

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We rejoin the Everest Base Camp trail and continue to Lobuche.

12

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We visit Everest Base Camp and return to Gorakshep for the night.

13

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We climb for sunrise views, then descend to Pheriche.

14

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

We follow the familiar trail back to Namche.

15

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545 m / 18,192 ft

The final trekking day brings us to Lukla, then we fly back to Kathmandu.

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

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.

Captured Moments

Expedition Gallery

6 photos

Gokyo valley lake and mountain backdrop

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Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek landscape view

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Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

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Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

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Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

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Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek

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