Embrace a more demanding Himalayan journey that goes beyond the classic EBC trail, taking you over the iconic Cho La Pass, into the serene Gokyo Lakes, and deep into the heart of the Everest region for a truly fulfilling adventure.
DestinationNepal
Duration18 days
Trip DifficultyModerate
ActivitiesTrek
Max. Elevation5550m.
Group Size15+
VehicleCar, Deluxe AC Bus
AccommodationHotel, Teahouse
MealsB,L,D
Ending PointKathmandu (Airport Departure)
Trip Note of the EBC, Gokyo and Cho La pass trek
The Everest Base Camp, Gokyo & Cho La Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous treks in the Everest region, combining the iconic Everest Base Camp route with the scenic Gokyo Lakes and the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m). This trek offers a complete Himalayan experience—turquoise lakes, high passes, glaciers, and breathtaking mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The Everest Chola Pass Trek with Gokyo Lakes and the Base Camp is an inclusive 18-day travel package for those who love challenges amidst the mountainous terrain in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The tour can be customized to be completed in two weeks, too.
The all-inclusive itinerary includes a visit to most of the popular sights of the Everest locale, such as Tengboche Monastery, Namche Bazaar, Gorakshep, Lukla, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and crossing Chola Pass (5,420 meters, 17,782 ft).
The hike compels you to get wanderlust with the captivating beauty of mountains, glaciers, valleys, mountain passes, mountain lakes, and many more. Hence, it is an ideal trek package to Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes via the Chola Pass for proficient and passionate high-altitude trekkers.
There is an unending list of wonderful places that you are going to visit on the Gokyo, EBC, and Chola Pass Treks. You are going to make uninterrupted memories on the High Chola Circuit and also walk to a popular high pass on Everest.
First things first, this trek takes you to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world. It’s probably the number one wish on the bucket list of every person who loves to travel.
Then the trek takes you to some heavenly locations, like Gokyo Valley. From here, you can admire the beauty of tranquil, emerald-green mountain lakes embedded beautifully in the snow-clad mountainous terrain.
Above all, the adventure of crossing the Chola Summit Pass on the Everest Chola Pass Trek is unbeatable in terms of natural magnificence.
Why choose Chola Pass trekking with EBC and Gokyo Lakes?
The trek to Chola Pass is a wonderful journey that introduces you to a different definition of beauty. With the Chola Pass, Gokyo Lake, and Everest Base Camp hikes, you take a deep dive into the Sagarmatha National Park and explore its geographical variations and biodiversity.
Similarly, the beautiful Sherpa villages, people, culture, and lifestyle are unique aspects of this journey. It gives you some insights into the Sherpa people, their culture, their traditions, and the Tibetan Buddhist religion.
On the journey to the Base Camp showers, you will see some incredible views of mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho-Oyu, Mt. Thamserku, and many more.
As the trail traverses from the base camp to the Chola Pass, the landscapes get wilder. With the glaciers, icefalls, and, above all, the dazzling Gokyo Lakes, Everest Chola Pass trekking is worth a try!
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Hiking Route
Trekking to Chola Pass is a superb combo with the treks to Chola Pass, EBC, and Gokyo Lake. It starts with an exhilarating flight to Lukla and follows the classic trail to Everest Base Camp.
The trail traverses through the National Park and climbs via several Sherpa villages to Namche. From the sherpa town, the trail ascends to Tengboche and the pastures of Dingboche.
Further, we walk along the trail and pass Lobuche and Gorakshep on the way to the campsite. From the base camp, we follow a trail that leads us to Chola Pass. We cross the pass and head towards the Gokyo valley.
Finally, enjoying the fascinating beauty of Gokyo lakes against the backdrop of the beautiful Himalayas, we descend to Lukla via Namche. This way, we conclude our Everest Base Camp trek via Chola Pass.
Heaven Himalaya offers a fascinating trek for your kind perusal. You can join our group or opt for a private Chola Pass trek. For more information about the guaranteed dates, please let us know. Our quality and service are exceptional, and you will feel the difference once you join us.
So, come forward and join us for an outstanding journey to Base Camp and Chola Pass in the Everest region of Nepal. March to May and September to November are the most recommended times for the Everest Chola Pass Trek.
Hightlights of the EBC, Gokyo and Chola Pass Trek
The panoramic views of mountains in the Everest region, such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Cho-Oyu, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Ama Dablam.
Traditional Sherpa villages, Sherpa people, and their unique culture, customs, and lifestyle
Hike to Kalapatthar for a lovely sunrise view
Cross Chola pass and trek to Gokyo Lakes
A challenging journey to the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes via Chola Pass
Takes you deep into the Sagarmatha National Park and allows you to explore its geographical variations and biodiversity
Tranquil emerald mountain lakes embedded beautifully in the snow-clad mountainous terrain in Gokyo Valley
Alternate Routes
Option 1: The shorter alternative trekking package for those who want to visit EBC will be the 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek. It's a well-established trail that takes you on a journey to base camp and Kala Patthar via several sherpa villages.
Option 2: Another option is the Gokyo Lakes Trek, which is a 12-day journey to the highest freshwater lake system in the world. It takes you on a journey to the pristine lakes and the most scenic point on Everest, Gokyo Ri. You can also choose to trek to Everest Base Camp, adding a few days to the Gokyo trip.
Option 3: For those who need a more relaxing way of visiting base camp, they can go with the Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Package. It involves a trip to base camp along the main trail, which is followed by a return helicopter flight to Kathmandu.
Option 4: The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a better alternative for a long, similar, and strenuous journey. The classic trip also includes crossing two other high mountain passes, Kongma La and Renjo La Pass, along with a trip to Gokyo Lakes, Chola Pass, and Base Camp.
Quick Itinerary of the EBC, Gokyo and Chola pass Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Aiport (1,400m/4,593ft)
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla and then to Phakding (2,610m/8,697ft)
Day 3: Phakding to Namche (3,440m/11,286ft)
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche (3,440m/11,286ft)
Day 5: Namche to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664ft)
Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,469ft)
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410m/14,469ft)
Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m/16,108ft)
Day 9: Lobuche - EBC - Gorakshep (5,181m/16,994ft)
Day 10: Gorakshep - Kala Patthar - Gorakshep - Dzongla (4,830m/15,843ft)
Day 11: Dzongla to Dragnak via Chola Pass (5,420m/17,782ft)
Day 12: Dragnak to Gokyo Lakes (4,790m/15,710ft)
Day 13: Gokyo Lakes - Gokyo Ri - Dole (4,200m/13,779ft)
A representative from our team will wait for you at the arrival terminal of Kathmandu International Airport.
Make sure that you look after a person with your nameplate! The representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
As you check into the hotel, the representative will give you a synopsis of our plans. Tonight, spend your time at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla and start the Chola Pass Trek with a trek to Phakding (2610 m/8562 ft), duration: 3 hours
Elevation: 2840m
Duration: 45 Mins
Distance: 134 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
We pick you up in the early morning and escort you to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport. Here, we catch a flight that will take us to the Lukla Airport in the Khumbu region of Nepal.
The region is probably one of the most loved and frequented trekking regions in Nepal. It takes pride in having the world’s highest mountain, i.e., Mount Everest. The flight to Lukla is full of magnificent mountain views.
As you land in Phakding, meet our remaining crew in Lukla for your journey ahead. From Lukla, we follow a trail that drops to the Dudhkoshi River and goes up gradually along a well-marked path to Phakding.
Tonight, spend your time at a guesthouse in Phakding.
Day 03: Trek to Namche (3440 m/11283 ft), duration: 6 hours
Elevation: 3440m
Duration: 6-7 hrs
Distance: 11.3-12.3 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
The days are going to get more interesting ahead. As we leave Phakding, we follow a trail that traverses through Sagarmatha National Park.
We march ahead through a forested area enriched with various species of flora and fauna. We pass interesting Sherpa villages like Monjo and Jorsale on the way to Namche.
The trail from Phakding to Namche undulates up and down many times. It can be quite tiring, but the pristine air, amazing views, and the quest to reach the top of the world will keep you going.
Tonight, spend your time at a guesthouse in Namche.
Day 04: Acclimatization Day: Day hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m/12,729 ft), Duration: 3 hours
Elevation: 3880m
Duration: 3 hrs
Distance: 5.4 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Today, you are at Namche, which means you are already at around 3440 meters. Therefore, we stop and take our time to acclimatize in Namche.
Namche Bazaar is a vibrant town in the Khumbu region. It is the only gateway to Everest, crowded with hotels, lodges, cyber cafes, shops, and many more.
After breakfast in the guesthouse, we hike up to the Everest View Hotel. From here, one can get some close-up views of mountains in the Everest region. You will be blessed with some fascinating views of mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Cho-Oyu, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Tawache, and many more.
After exploring the place for a while, we return to Namche overnight. On the way, we visit a photo gallery, a museum, and a few Sherpa villages.
Tonight, we are staying at a guesthouse in Namche.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche (3860 m/12680 ft), duration: 5 hours
Elevation: 3860m
Duration: 5 hrs
Distance: 9-12 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Leaving Namche, we follow a trail that climbs up to Tengboche at an elevation of 3860 meters. It’s a simple way up to Tengboche, and the route offers some incredible views of Mt. Everest along with other mountains like Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lobuche, and many other adjacent peaks.
At first, we descend to the Dudhkoshi Valley at Pungi Thanka and slowly ascend to Tengboche.
At Tengboche, we visit a popular monastery known as the Tengboche monastery. It is an old Buddhist monastery on the way to Everest. It is not just known for its spiritual significance but also its amazing location.
One can see the great Mt. Ama Dablam rising just above the monastery. Likewise, the views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Lobuche, and many other mountains in the region look magnificent from here.
Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Tengboche.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche (4410 m/14464 ft), duration: 5 hours
Elevation: 4410m
Duration: 5 hrs
Distance: 10-11 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Moving ahead from Tengboche, we follow a trail that descends to the Imja River. From the river, we follow a scenic trail full of mountain views and picturesque landscapes to Pangboche village.
The village, at an elevation of 3900 meters, is in a dramatic location with appealing views of mountains in the backdrop.
Enjoying the majestic views of mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Amadablam, and Mt. Lhotse, we ascend to the pastures of Dingboche. We pass various pastures and summer settlements of yak herders until we open to the vast pasture of Dingboche.
We also refer to Dingboche as a summer valley. In winter, it is fully covered by snow, but in summer, it looks wonderful with grassland and yak herding in it. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Dingboche.
Day 07: Acclimatization Day: Short hike to Nagerjun (5,616 m/18,425 ft), duration: 5 hours
Elevation: 5616m
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
As we rise to the high-elevation region with passing trekking days, we need to acclimatize to ensure our health and safety. Hence, today we stay in Dingboche for acclimatization. In the daytime, after breakfast, we hike up to Nagerjun.
Nagerjun, at an elevation of 5616 meters, is a beautiful viewpoint that lies just above Dingboche on the edge of Chhukung Valley.
As we walk towards Nagerjun, the trail gets steep, which makes walking a bit difficult, but the spellbinding views of the mountains from Nagerjun make the walk worth it.
From Nagerjun, we will relish some amazing views of Lobuche Peak, Thamserku, Taboche, Kangtega, Mt. Ama Dablam, and many other peaks in the range.
The hike is also an opportunity to get a stunning glimpse at Mt. Makalu, the fifth-highest peak in the world. After some refreshing moments at the top, we drop to Dingboche for the night.
Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in Dingboche.
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m/16,728 ft), duration: 5 hours
Elevation: 4910m
Duration: 5 hrs
Distance: 8-10.7 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Over time, we are getting closer to Everest Base Camp. Today, we leave Dingboche and make our way to Lobuche, at an elevation of 4910 meters.
From Dingboche, we follow the trail that takes us to the wide valley until we reach Dughla. From here, we move ahead to the Trekkers' Aid Post at Pheriche, at an elevation of 4240 meters.
In this post, we can see a few Western doctors treating the trekkers voluntarily. Further, we walk along the valley, passing some yak pastures on the way, before reaching Lobuche.
Tonight, we will spend our time at a guesthouse in Lobuche.
Day 09: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5364 m/17594 ft) and back to Gorakshep (5,181 m/16,994 ft) Duration: 8 hours
Elevation: 5364m
Duration: 6-7 hrs
Distance: 8-8.5 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Finally, the wait is over. We are into one of the most anticipated days of our entire trekking journey.
After breakfast in Gorekshep, we walk towards Everest Base Camp, the base camp of the world’s highest mountain. It is a moment of pride for anyone. We explore the area and witness the glory of the mountains that rise just before us.
Though Mt. Everest hides between Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Nuptse, the views of other mountains are simply incredible.
As we explore the base camp and capture the moment in photos, we return to Gorekshep for an overnight stay.
Tonight, we will spend our time at a guesthouse in Gorekshep.
Day 10: Hike to Kalapattar (5,550 m/18,190 ft) and trek to Dzongla (4,830 m/15,840 ft), Duration: 6-7 hours
Elevation: 5545m
Duration: 1.5-2 hrs
Distance: 1.2-1.5 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
It is another most-awaited day of our trekking journey. In the early morning, we wake up and hike to Kalapatthar.
Kalapatthar is one of the most renowned viewpoints in the Everest region of Nepal. It is popular for sunrise views and panoramic views of mountains in the Everest region, including the mighty Mt. Everest.
From Kalapatthar, we catch the golden rays of the sun falling over the glittering snow of Mt. Everest, along with other towering peaks in the range.
After some quality time at Kalapatthar, we descend to Dzongla. Tonight, spend your time at a guesthouse in Dzongla.
Day 11: Trek to Dragnak (4700 m/15415 ft) via Chola Pass (5,420 m/17,782 ft), duration: 7 hours
Elevation: 5420m
Duration: 6-9 hrs
Distance: 8-12 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Get set for a tough yet rewarding day of our journey. Today, we start our day early with around three hours of walking towards Chola Pass.
As we are walking in the high altitudinal region, walking itself is an enormous task here. Even the path is quite terrifying, with dangerous passes and avalanches all around. Sometimes rocks may fall from above; hence, we must be careful.
As we climb up to the pass, we cross it at an elevation of 5420 meters and descend downhill along a slippery path full of rocks to Dragnak. It takes us around three hours from the pass to reach Dragnak.
Tonight, spend your time at a guesthouse in Dragnak.
Day 12: Trek to Gokyo Lakes (4,790 m/15,710 ft), Duration: 2–3 hours
Elevation: 4790m
Duration: 3-5 hrs
Distance: 3.6-4.5 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
After an energizing breakfast in Dragnak, we head along a rough trail toward the Gokyo Valley. The trail is too challenging and unstable.
Gokyo Lake is not so far from Dragnak, but walking along the glacier takes time. One needs to be very careful while walking.
In around three to four hours, we reach Gokyo Valley, from where we can enjoy the heavenly beauty of the mountains and lakes (Gokyo lakes) against the backdrop of the beautiful Himalayas.
Tonight, spend your time at a guesthouse in Gokyo.
Day 13: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m/19,083 ft) and trek to Dole (4,200 m/13,775 ft), Duration: 6-7 hours
Elevation: 5483m
Duration: 3 hrs
Distance: 2.1 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Today, we wake up early and hike up to Gokyo Ri for amazing views of Gokyo Lakes and mountains. Gokyo Ri is one of the popular viewpoints in the Everest region of Nepal.
At an elevation of 5360 meters, Gokyo RI offers some stunning views of mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho-Oyu, and many other peaks.
The small mountain lakes from above look fantastic. The blue-colored lakes shine like emeralds in the beautiful snow. Enjoying some magnificent views from the Ri, we descend to Dole for the night.
Tonight, spend your time at a guesthouse in Dole.
Day 14: Trek to Namche (3,440 m/11,285 ft), Duration: 6 hours
Elevation: 3440m
Duration: 6 hrs
Distance: 10.5 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
After breakfast in Dole, we descend to Namche Bazaar. The first part of our trek today is downhill up to Phorte Thangna, and from here, the trail ascends uphill to Mungla Danda.
Again, from here, we go downhill to Lausaha and join the main trail to Everest Base Camp at Namche. Tonight, spend your night at a guesthouse in Namche.
Day 15: Trek to Lukla (2,840 m/9,317 ft), duration: 6-7 hours
Elevation: 2800m
Duration: 6-7 hrs
Distance: 13-14 Km
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
After enjoying some impressive views of mountains in the Everest region of Nepal from Namche, we start our journey back to Lukla.
We descend via the same well-paved path along Jorsale, Monjo, and Phakding to Lukla. The lush forests and amazing mountainous terrain will keep us engaged throughout the trek. Tonight, spend your night at a guesthouse in Lukla.
Day 16: End the Chola Pass Trekking and fly back to Kathmandu
Elevation: 1400m
Duration: 45 Mins
Distance: 134 Km
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
In the morning, we take an early flight to Kathmandu. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, we will drop you off at your hotel in the city.
You have two options for the day—explore the streets and malls for shopping or visit some places you want to explore but are not included in the trek. Tonight, spend your time at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 17: A free day in Kathmandu
Elevation: 1400m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
It’s a free day in Kathmandu. You can explore the narrow gulleys of Thamel, visit the shops, purchase some souvenirs, or visit any places of interest.
You can also explore some shopping malls around the valley. Tonight, spend your time at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure Day (Farewell)
Elevation: 1400m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast Included
Today, fly home from Kathmandu or continue your travels to some other destinations around the globe.
We will drop you off at the airport three hours before your scheduled flight. We hope you had a great time with us. Thank you, and have a safe journey home.
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Heaven Himalaya Still Best Trekking Company In Nepal
This is was my 7th trekking experience with Heaven Himalaya. Previously I'd done their 11 day jeep explore through Mustang, a 3 week tour through the Everest Region including Gokyo and Chukkhung Valleys, 8 days on the Annapurna Circuit East with a girlfriend, Tsum Valley with a bunch of other couples, Manaslu Circuit and Manang area with my husband and another friend and this year my husband and I went to Annapurna Base Camp. We were planning on going to Mardi Himal as well and then onto Nar and Phu Valleys with Heaven Himalaya but I sprained my knee and, unfortunately, had to cut my trekking short this year. We were once again able to retain the incredible guiding services of Shankar Adhikari who is a phenomenal guide and human being who, along with porter and card shark Anish who took amazing care of us and looked out for us every step of the way. This included securing great medical services for me in Pokhara after I sprained my knee and flexing graciously around the subsequent changes in the itinerary forced by my injury. The owner of Heaven Himalaya, Ramhari Adhikari, continues to step up for us trip after trip, creating competitively priced and affordable, beautiful and physically appropriate itineraries based on our fitness level and age and treats us like family, always making us feel welcome, special and cared for. This company is top notch. I've been coming to Nepal for over 40 years and worked with other trekking companies over the years and none compares to Heaven Himalaya. You will be taken care of, welcomed like family and looked after with every detail. I cannot recommend HH or any of their programs more highly.
Amazing EBC with Shankar
My dad, brother and I had an epic Everest Base Camp trek with Heaven Himalaya. I would recommend this company and our guide, Shankar, with all my heart. My review will discuss the logistics/season, itinerary and plan, key people involved, and overall experience/tips.
We started our 11-day trek on September 3rd, so not yet peak season. While there was some rain, this was an amazing time to go because the forests were lush, the weather was mild, and most importantly it was not crowded. This offered more flexibility with lodging as well. I’ll talk more about weather when I talk about Shankar.
Heaven Himalaya set up a thorough and effective itinerary that allowed for ample acclimation at higher altitudes. The daily hiking was challenging at points, but very manageable and we saw people of many ages conquering the trails. The company set up clean, comfortable accommodation at each location and even coordinated with other guides so our family could stay at the same tea houses as the friends we met on the trails. We were also given a down jacket and sleeping bag by the company, but I didn’t need to use them because it was pretty warm and the tea houses had very robust blankets. I never felt like I was going hungry or thirsty because Shankar ensured we got hot food at each meal. I cannot eat gluten, and while I found there were many food options for me, Shankar asked hotel chefs to prepare specific oatmeal that was safe for me to eat. This was very valuable to me, as I wanted to be well fueled at breakfast before hiking. Breakfast was the most limiting gluten-wise and I usually ended up eating eggs and potatoes. But for lunch and dinner, there was a wide variety of soups, dal bhat and other Indian rice dishes, fried rice, and potatoes. It was all so delicious! Shankar also gave us a nightly run-down of the next day’s plan, so we could know exactly what was going on. It’s important that I mention that during our trip was the revolution in Nepal. We didn’t have service high up in the mountains, but Shankar kept us updated of the political events. He and Ram, the founder, emailed my mom who was worried about safety in Nepal and kept her updated and reassured that we were safe. By the time our trek concluded just 3 days later, the riots had stopped and the curfew was lifted in Kathmandu. We felt very safe.
The overall experience was beyond amazing. The mountains were beautiful and I learned so much about Nepali culture through visiting monasteries on our trek and eating traditional foods like dal bat at each tea house. It was such an accomplishment to make it to base camp. We along with many other hikers took Diamox to prevent altitude sickness, and Shankar encouraged us to hydrate and sleep well which helped us feel great the entire trek.
Shankar and Ram were a fantastic team both when things were smooth as well as during challenges. One such uncontrollable challenge was the weather at Lukla airport preventing flights from departing as normal. Shankar was very well connected with airlines flying from Lukla to Kathmandu, and so arranged for me and my family to fly back to Kathmandu on time after our trek even though flights were not guaranteed. Shankar’s quick thinking and hustle got us to Kathmandu safely even though many of our friends who used different trekking companies were left waiting at the airport for days while the weather cleared. Shankar was seriously a superstar during this time and I wish all our friends had guides like him to advocate for them. Domestic travel in Nepal is very weather-dependent and Heaven Himalaya did an amazing job navigating that. I can’t say enough how much stress that erased for us. I must emphasize how AWESOME our porters, Maniraj and Rajkumar, were. They carried our bags with such strength and on the last day, when we were rushing to the Lukla airport, they rushed alongside us which was a feat considering the weight they carried. I felt so supported by this efficient team.
Now for my general reflections. This was our first long multi-day trek and some items I found useful were: electrolytes, vitamins/probiotics, a waterproof backpack cover, knee support wraps, a power bank. You can find these items in Namche during the trek but may be more expensive. As a gluten free person I wish I had brought more snacks with me. I managed fine but it wouldn’t have hurt for me to bring a couple protein bars like other friends did, and perhaps more packaged oatmeal just for gluten intolerance reasons. it was also really helpful to have a good quality, absorbent backpacking towel because it really elevated the shower experience. Other things to note are that hot drink costs do add up so just be mindful! We had one hot drink per day included, but liked to indulge in multiple.
We are hoping to return for another trek with Shankar and Heaven Himalaya, maybe this time to Annapurna. The company and country’s hospitality made a strong impression.
Excellent Experiemce
Really excellent service right from airport pickup where they helped me when I couldnt withdraw cash right down the the "exit" interview. Really made the entire trip very enjoyable. Bhimsen was an excellent guide and a great partner to have on EBC Trek.
Warmest recommendation to our guide
We are a couple from Denmark who have long wanted to go The Manaslu Circuit. In this connection, we reached out to one of our friends who recommended Prem. They had gone to Manaslu together a few years ago and he put us in touch. From the first contact Prem has been super professional and he has been very attentive to our needs and wishes for the trip. When we arrived in Kathmandu, Prem picked us up at the airport and walked us to the hotel. Our trip started on our 3rd holiday and everything was very organized and we felt completely safe throughout the trip. Prem guided us over Larke Pass in the best way, and we are incredibly happy to have shared such a great experience with him. In connection with our return journey, Prem came to our hotel and he accompanied us to the airport and wished us a safe journey. Apart from organizing our trip to Manaslu, Prem has reached out and been extremely helpful throughout our 6 week journey. We will thus give him our warmest recommendations!
Solo trekk to Annapurna Base Camp
I did the Annapurna Base Camp hike in mid-November, and Heaven Himalaya made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Booking was easy, and their responses on WhatsApp were always prompt and helpful.
As a solo female traveler, I appreciated how well everything was organized. They helped me with gear selection, forex exchange, and every small detail. When I arrived in Kathmandu, all logistics were taken care of, including airport transfers and trail arrangements. I didn’t have to worry about a thing.
My guide, Surya, was amazing. With over 15 years of experience, he knew the trails inside out and ensured everything was taken care of. Nothing was too much trouble for him, and he addressed all my concerns with ease.
I finished the trail quicker than expected, and they were flexible enough to adjust my bookings and logistics without any hassle. Their willingness to accommodate changes made the trip even more enjoyable.
Price-wise, they’re in line with the market, but their response time and ability to customize based on individual needs really stood out.
When deciding what goes into your bag, it is important to check out the characteristics of the trek as well as the season/month in which you are coming to Nepal.
Here's a quick list of essential gear for the Chola Pass trek:
Nice Hiking Boots: Ensure the boots are broken in, provide ankle support, and are waterproof.
Season-appropriate Clothing: First, dress up with base layers, insulated mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells.
Backpack: We provide duffel bags for you. Apart from that, you need a small backpack for your essential items.
Sleeping Bag: It's provided by Heaven Himalaya to use during the night. There will also be a blanket in each teahouse room we use.
Trekking Poles: We need trekking poles while walking downhill and on uneven trails.
Water Purification Tablets: Mineral waters are expensive, so it's always better to carry water purification tablets to use after filling the tap water.
First Aid Kit: Although our trekking guides have an emergency first aid kit, it's always better to carry your essentials like bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and altitude sickness medication.
Headlamp/Flashlight: This isn't a compulsion, but it becomes useful if you start hiking early in the morning or until late in the evening. You hike in the early morning dark when you head to Kala Patthar in Everest.
Sun Protection: You will be constantly exposed to UV rays while hiking. Thus, bring dark sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect your skin from sunburn.
Maps and Navigation: Heaven Himalaya provides trekking maps for you, and the guide will have GPS navigation as well. So, this isn't necessary when traveling with Heaven Himalaya.
Snacks and Energy Food: You lose a lot of energy while hiking for hours. Therefore, pack some high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars to eat while hiking. This way, you can replenish the lost energy.
Camera: Bring a good camera to capture the breathtaking views of Mount Everest. Also, make sure you have a few extra batteries for your camera, as there are no stable charging facilities along the Chola Pass trekking route.
If you are thinking about a detailed packing list, then here’s our recommended packing list for trekking in Nepal.
Everest Chola Pass Trek FAQs
1. General FAQ's
What is Everest, Gokyo, and Cho La Pass Trek?
This trek is a spectacular circuit that combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with a visit to the stunning Gokyo Lakes and crosses the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m). It offers diverse landscapes, from high alpine lakes to glacial valleys and panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
How long does Everest, Gokyo, and Cho La Pass Trek take?
The trek usually takes around 14 to 16 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization. Heaven Himalaya customizes itineraries to balance adventure with safety and comfort.
How difficult is this trek?
This trek is moderately challenging due to the high altitude and the Cho La Pass crossing. Good fitness and some previous trekking experience are recommended. Our experienced guides at Heaven Himalaya provide support and ensure proper acclimatization.
What are the highlights of the trek?
Highlights include trekking to Everest Base Camp, exploring the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, summiting Gokyo Ri for breathtaking mountain views, and crossing the Cho La Pass—a thrilling high mountain pass with stunning vistas.
Is it possible to do this trek without crossing the Cho La Pass?
Yes, but the Cho La Pass is a key feature of this trek and offers one of the best viewpoints in the region. Skipping it means missing an unforgettable part of the experience. Heaven Himalaya can help design an alternate route if needed.
When is the best time to do this trek?
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear for mountain views.
What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trek?
You’ll stay in teahouses and lodges along the route, ranging from basic to comfortable. In busy spots like Namche Bazaar and Gokyo, lodges tend to be nicer with better facilities. Heaven Himalaya books quality accommodations in advance for your comfort.
Do I need special gear for crossing the Cho La Pass?
You’ll need sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, and trekking poles. The pass can be snowy and icy, so microspikes or crampons might be necessary, especially in early spring or late autumn. We provide a detailed packing list and advice.
Are permits required for the Everest, Gokyo, and Cho La Pass Trek?
Yes, you’ll need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. Heaven Himalaya handles all permits and paperwork as part of your trek package.
Can I combine this trek with a helicopter return?
Yes! For those short on time or preferring less trekking back, helicopter return options are available from Gokyo or Lobuche. Heaven Himalaya can arrange this service to add convenience and a stunning aerial view.