Everest Cho La Pass Trek

There are plenty of reasons as to why you would want to take the Everest Chola Pass trek in 2025. Some of the main reasons, of course, remain the beauty of the Himalayas, the rich Sherpa cultural exploration from start to finish, epic challenges, and its trendiness mixed with the thrill in 2025. Cho La Pass, at an elevation of 5,420 m, with its panoramic aesthetic elements, makes for an incredible journey if you are looking to sit back and relax on top of the world (almost literally).

Furthermore, Mount Everest is connected to Gokyo Lake via the Cho La Pass, providing a route to both locations. If you are willing to make multiple trips during the same journey, you can also choose to extend it. For those who prefer serenity and quieter trails, this trek is a great alternative. There is never too large a crowd, although there are visitors on the trek’s pathways throughout the year. You will pass hidden valleys, glaciers, sacred peaks, lakes, and many passes. Hence, there won’t be a single moment of boredom in your trek.

We will wake up early, around 6:00 a.m., to begin our day. After freshening up, we will enjoy a warm breakfast, typically porridge with eggs and tea or coffee. By 7:00 a.m., we will begin trekking, moving through beautiful landscapes and steadily climbing to higher altitudes.

We will stop for a short break around 10:00 a.m. to rest, hydrate, and enjoy a light snack. At around 12:30 p.m., we will take a lunch break at a teahouse or a designated resting spot, where we will enjoy a warm meal, such as dal bhat or noodle soup, before continuing our trek in the afternoon. The afternoon will bring more challenges with steep climbs, but the stunning views will keep us motivated.

By 4:00 p.m., we will arrive at our destination for the day, whether a guesthouse or a campsite. We will have time to relax and enjoy some hot drinks before dinner at 6:00 p.m. After a filling meal, we will rest, chat about the day’s trek, and go to bed around 8:00 p.m., ready for the next day’s adventure.

Frankly, no, the Cho La Pass trek is not suitable for beginners. There are many reasons why we say this. First, you may need to travel on various complicated routes from the beginning to the end of the journey over 15 days. The trek duration in itself is not what most beginners would prefer or are suited for. Further, the glaciers and high passes are not easy to cross. Trekking to Cho La Pass is unlike a typical trekking journey, as it covers longer, more challenging trails.

So, who is suited for the Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass trek? Those trekkers who have prior experience in trekking at higher altitudes can better acclimate to the changing Himalayan atmosphere. Such trekkers can complete a journey like the 15-day Everest Cho La Pass without much issue. Additionally, such trekkers also know how to utilize trekking and mountaineering gear and equipment effectively. This makes it possible for them to follow a glacial trek or a journey in the cold climate.

From Namche Bazaar, it takes about 5 days to reach Cho La Pass, covering an estimated 38 to 40 kilometers. After acclimatizing in Namche, the trek continues to Dole (11 km) on Day 4, then to Machhermo (9 km) on Day 5, and Gokyo (7 km) on Day 6. You’ll spend Day 7 acclimatizing around Gokyo before heading to Thagnak (7 km) on Day 8. You will cross Cho La Pass on Day 9 as you hike from Thagnak to Dzongla, covering approximately 6 km, which is the most demanding and technical section of the trek.

While the distance isn’t extreme each day, the trek involves high altitude, steep ascents, rocky terrain, and glacier crossings. The day you cross Cho La Pass (5,367 m) is exceptionally long and challenging. However, the gradual elevation gain and rest days make it easier for your body to adapt. Although tough, this route is rewarding and well-paced, allowing for proper acclimatization.

Besides the standard 15-day Everest Cho La Pass Trek, several alternative trails also take you through or near Gokyo and Cho La Pass. Each of these treks offers a unique experience in terms of difficulty, scenery, and crowd levels.

•  Everest Three Passes Trek: This route includes three high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. It’s one of the most challenging and complete treks in the Everest region. It offers remote trails, fewer trekkers, and epic mountain views.
• Gokyo Valley Trek (Without Cho La Pass): Although this route doesn’t cross Cho La Pass, it is often used as the first half of the Cho La trek. It takes you up to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri, but instead of crossing the pass, you return the same way. This is a safer and easier option for those who prefer not to tackle high mountain passes but still want to explore the Gokyo Valley.

The Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp takes you through glaciers, high mountain passes, and offers unforgettable views of Mount Everest. This trek will take you from the Eastern Everest Base Camp trails to the Western Gokyo Lake region via Cho La pass. This route is also the gentler option for trekkers because they will gradually gain elevation during the trek. The ascent to Cho La is also more straightforward from Dragnag to Dzongla. Due to the numerous opportunities for acclimatization, your body can better adapt to the changing conditions of the high-altitude Himalayan surroundings.

By taking the EBC route, you can visit both Gokyo and Cho La Pass in one unforgettable adventure. The Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek via Everest Base Camp has become one of Nepal’s most popular treks for good reason. It combines the thrill of the Himalayas with the calm beauty of Gokyo Lake, which holds deep spiritual value. From start to finish, the journey offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural experience that feels like a true blessing for any trekker.

The Everest Cho La Pass trek begins in Kathmandu with a scenic mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Once in Lukla, we will trek to Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Khumbu region, where we will spend a day for acclimatization. After that, we will continue our journey to Machhermo and then head towards Gokyo Valley. Here, we will spend some time exploring the stunning Gokyo Lake before heading towards Thagnak. From Thagnak, we will continue our ascent and cross the challenging Cho La Pass, one of the highest and most difficult points of the trek. After crossing the pass, we descend to Dzongla for a much-needed rest.

The trail then connects with the classic Everest Base Camp route at Lobuche, leading us to Everest Base Camp (EBC). We’ll also hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) viewpoint for panoramic views of Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks. After experiencing the highlights of the trek, we begin our descent via Pheriche and Namche Bazaar, eventually returning to Lukla. From Lukla, we take a flight back to Kathmandu. Kathmandu is our final stop. Upon reaching there, we will end our unforgettable adventure towards the Everest Cho La Pass.

Helicopter Ride

A helicopter ride is a fast and luxurious way to reach the Everest region, with a flight time of approximately 45 minutes from Kathmandu to Lukla. It is an excellent option if you want to save time, avoid potential delays with regular flights, or enjoy stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. Helicopter rides typically operate early in the morning to take advantage of optimal weather conditions and clear skies.

If you choose this option, you can save 1 to 2 days compared to other travel methods. Helicopters can also take you directly to Namche Bazaar or even higher locations for special purposes, such as medical evacuations or luxury treks. While more expensive, it offers comfort, efficiency, and an unforgettable mountain experience.

Ground Route Via Salleri

The ground route via Salleri is an excellent alternative for those who prefer a more gradual journey into the Everest region. You can take a bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Salleri, which takes about 8 to 10 hours on winding mountain roads. From Salleri, you will trek for approximately 4 to 5 days to reach Lukla, passing through remote villages, terraced fields, and dense forests.

This route allows you to acclimatize more effectively by ascending gradually. It is also less crowded than the direct Lukla flight, offering a more authentic cultural experience. However, the road journey can be bumpy and challenging, so it is best suited for travelers who enjoy adventure and have some extra days to spare.

Counter-clockwise

A counter-clockwise trek starts from Jiri or Phaplu and follows the classic route taken by early Everest expeditions. Starting from Jiri adds about 5 to 7 days of trekking to Lukla, whereas starting from Phaplu reduces the time to 3 to 4 days. This option allows you to experience quieter trails and interact with locals in traditional Sherpa and Rai villages. Along with all that, you can also enjoy diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, suspension bridges, and rhododendron forests.

This trekking option features gradual ascents that help ensure proper acclimatization, making it ideal for beginners. However, this route requires more time and effort but offers a rewarding trekking experience. Compared to our trek itinerary, this option can be challenging because it increases the number of trekking days.

The Everest Cho La Pass trek presents numerous challenges. While experienced trekkers may find it more manageable, this trek still demands caution and preparation from everyone, regardless of skill level.

• Unpredictable weather: You are more than likely to find yourself stuck in a loop of the Everest region’s unpredictable weather. This is especially a problem during the off-season. Snowfall and rainfall are common during winter and summer, respectively. Therefore, trekking during peak seasons may be wise.
• Altitude sickness: When you reach an altitude above 3000m, you will find yourself feeling sick. The sickness that you face at higher altitudes is known as altitude sickness. Please ensure you acclimate properly.
• Long trekking days: The trekking days are very long. You have to be cautious about resting between the treks. Long trekking days will tire your legs and cause nausea. It is always better to prevent it with proper hydration, timely rest, and a balanced diet.
• Physical and mental stress: Trekkers who trek after a long break or for the first time may experience physical and mental stress. Such stress can be overcome with prior research and physical preparation.
• Technical difficulties: You will encounter numerous technical challenges, including glacial moraines, steep ascents, rocky sections, and icefalls. You should be prepared with your trekking guide and fellow trekkers about the gear, equipment, and methods of overcoming the challenges.

Yes, hiring a guide is mandatory for the Everest Cho La Pass Trek. This new rule was implemented on April 1, 2023. Under this rule, you are not permitted to trek alone without a guide. During the Cho La Pass Trek, you will pass through restricted areas; therefore, hiring a guide is essential. The trail from Dzongla to Gokyo requires a compulsory guide. The guide will enhance your overall safety. They will help you with navigation.

The guide will also provide detailed information about the places you pass. They will also help you understand the local culture and traditions. As they are well-trained and certified, they will also provide guidance during emergencies. Additionally, a guide will arrange your accommodations and meals. Thus, having a guide provides a stress-free experience. You can enhance your overall safety and gain an in-depth understanding of the area.

As an off-the-beaten-track route in the Everest region, Chola Pass in Nepal is also a tea-house trekking route. This means you will stay in small, locally run hotels that offer a place to stay for the night and serve good food. Compared to the classic Everest Base Camp trek route, the tea houses on the Chola Pass Trek are older and more basic. There are dozens of well-built tea houses with private bathrooms, all the way up to Namche. Beyond that, each stop, such as Machhermo, Gokyo, and Thagnak, has only a few tea houses (3-4) with bathrooms available on a shared basis.

You can book these accommodations in Chola Pass Trekking in advance during peak seasons. Each room will have 2 to 3 small beds. There will be a fine mattress, a small blanket, and a pillow for the trekkers. Since the room has no heating, you will need to bring a sleeping bag to protect yourself from freezing temperatures during the Chola Pass Trek in Nepal.

Talking about the food you may find on the Everest Chola Pass trek, it’s all about Dal Bhaat Power 24 Hour! As funny as it may sound, an energizing plate of dal, bhaat, tarkari, and achaar can fulfill your taste buds and give you energy to cross mountains. A plate consists of energy-boosting carbs, protein, and vitamins. Additionally, you can find Western meals such as pasta, spaghetti, pizza, and sandwiches at most tea houses.

Here is a variety of meals you can try during your trek to the Everest Cho La Pass

Likewise, for drinking water, avoid drinking straight from a stream as it is untreated and unsafe. You should use water purification tablets or filters if you have to drink water from those sources. Carry a reusable bottle to reduce plastic waste. Furthermore, it is essential to strictly avoid alcohol at high altitudes and drink plenty of water (3–4 liters per day) to stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness. 

Communication and internet facilities in the Everest region can be unreliable, especially in high places like Cho La Pass. In lower areas like Kathmandu and Lukla, you can find stable Wi-Fi in most hotels and cafes. As you go higher, the internet becomes slower and less reliable due to the remote location and harsh conditions. In higher areas, many tea houses offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but it can be slow and unreliable. Some use satellite internet, which is expensive and only suitable for basic browsing or messaging.

Mobile networks like Ncell and Nepal Telecom are generally available in most parts of the trek; however, signal strength decreases as you climb higher, and there may be no connection in some areas. For a reliable connection, consider renting a satellite phone, which operates even in remote areas. You can also use a global SIM card, but it still depends on local networks. It’s a good idea to download maps, contacts, and other essential information before you start the trek, as the internet may not always be available when you need it.

The permits essential for the Everest Cho La Trek are the Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. These permits are checked at various points along the trail, so it’s essential to have them before you begin.

The Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit has replaced the old TIMS card and is required for entry into the Khumbu region. Likewise, the Sagarmatha National Park Permit allows you to enter the park where the Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass trek takes place. Besides permits, be sure to carry your valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity), Nepal visa, travel insurance that covers trekking, a detailed itinerary, and two passport-sized photos.

If you book with us, we will arrange all the necessary permits for you before the trek begins, so you don’t have to worry about them.

The best times for the Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass trek and the EBC trek are autumn and spring. Autumn in Nepal begins in September and ends in November. These are the warmest and calmest months for trekkers. The weather is calm and dry, with daytime temperatures around 3°C at Cho La Pass and 6°C in Gokyo. Nights are chilly but manageable, and snowfall is rare. November typically experiences the least rainfall (approximately 8 mm), while September can have around 13 rainy days; therefore, it’s wise to plan your start date accordingly.

Spring (March to May) also offers excellent trekking conditions. In March, temperatures at the high passes hover around 3°C, rising to 10°C in May as the season begins to warm up. Rainfall is minimal, and wind speeds average 19 km/h, which is not a significant issue. The mountains are still covered with snow from winter, but the trail is clear.

To overcome the challenges in your journey, you need to be physically and mentally fit. Starting your training 2 to 3 months before the trek gives your body and mind enough time to adjust to the demands of high-altitude trekking. The readiness to overcome challenges not only increases your safety but also makes the journey more enjoyable and accessible. Here is how you can prepare yourself for the Everest Cho La Trek:

Physical Fitness

Building overall physical strength is crucial for the long hours of trekking and carrying a backpack. To strengthen your leg and core muscles, incorporate exercises such as squats, lunges, and deadlifts into your routine. You can also opt for regular hikes on uneven terrain with a loaded backpack. This will help you get used to the demands of the trial. Additionally, engaging in exercises like yoga or stretching can help reduce the risk of muscle strain and injury.

Cardiovascular Training

Cardiovascular fitness is essential for trekking at high altitudes, where oxygen levels are lower. Activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or stair climbing for at least 30–45 minutes a day, 4–5 days a week, can help improve your stamina and endurance. Simulating trekking conditions by hiking on hills or staircases with a backpack is especially helpful in preparing your lungs and heart for the thinner air.

Mental Preparation

Mental toughness is just as important as physical fitness for a trek like the Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass. As the trek involves long hiking days in rugged terrain, it can be exhausting for you to navigate. Staying positive and focused during the trek can help you complete this adventure more peacefully. You can practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing. Visualizing the difficulties will also help you stay motivated throughout the trek.

Our 15-day package to the Everest Cho La Pass can be a great adventure. Here is why you should consider us for your next trip to the Everest Region:

• Safety is our priority: Our utmost priority is the safety of our customers. Our itineraries are customized to consider the fitness level and the individual needs of each person. We also provide the best acclimatization possible to protect our clients from altitude sickness.
• We provide an experienced group: Our guides and porters have been selected through a rigorous process. Additionally, we provide ongoing training to them to keep them informed about the locations. Our guides are licensed and provide you with information about the places that enhance your overall experience.
• Pickup & Dropoff Service Included: Our package includes pickup and dropoff services. Although meals for your stay in Kathmandu are not included in the package, we still provide you with pickup and drop-off services. Additionally, we make pickups on the journey and drop-offs on the first and last day of the adventure. This is an add-on service for our clients, making us slightly more considerate of our customers.
• Focus on sustainability: We are committed to eco-friendly tourism practices, ensuring that our treks do not harm the local environment or communities. We focus on sustainable practices that protect the natural beauty of the region and respect the local people’s culture and traditions. By choosing our trek, you contribute to preserving the environment while enjoying a meaningful experience in the Himalayas.
• Reasonable cost: We are well-known for offering trek packages at a competitive and affordable cost in Nepal. To find the difference in our cost, you can compare the price of our package with those included and excluded. We strive to include all necessary expenses during the tour, ensuring you are not surprised by hidden costs after booking the packages.

Clothing

• Base Layer (Upper)
• Moisture-wicking long-sleeve top
• Thermal shirt
• Moisture-wicking long underwear Mid Layer
• Fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket, insulated pants or soft-shell pants for warmth
• Outer Layer
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Down jacket or insulated jacket
• Waterproof and windproof pants
• Lightweight, breathable trekking pants
• Convertible pants
• Trekking gloves
• Waterproof gloves
• Warm beanie or balaclava
• Sun hat/cap
• 4-6 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks
• 1-2 pairs of thermal socks

Footwear

• High-cut waterproof trekking boots
• Camp shoes (sandals or comfortable shoes)
• Waterproof gaiters

Backpack and Bags

• 25-30L daypack
• 60-70L main trekking backpack
• Dry bags
• Sleeping System
• Sleeping bag (rated to at least -20°C/-4°F)
• Sleeping bag liner
• Sleeping pad

Hydration

• 2-3L water bottles
• Water purification tablets/filter

Personal Care & Toiletries

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm (SPF 30+)
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Wet wipes/hand sanitizer
• Tissues or toilet paper
• Personal medications
• Face mask/buffer
• Quick-drying towel

Electronics

• Camera
• Power bank
• Headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Phone/walkie-talkie

Trekking Essentials

• Trekking poles
• Snacks/energy bars
• Personal identification (passport, permits)
• First aid kit

Additional Items

• Sunglasses (UV protection, polarized)
• Multi-tool
• Rain poncho
• Extra ziplock bags
• Blister prevention/foot care (moleskine, foot powder)
• Trekking permit & travel insurance