Everest Base Camp Via Chola Gokyo Lake Trek: Kathmandu:

The Everest Base Camp via Chola Gokyo Lake Trek offers adventurers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the captivating Khumbu region. Trekkers begin their journey in Kathmandu, where they’ll enjoy the city’s vibrant culture before embarking on a thrilling flight to Lukla. From there, the trek winds through breathtaking landscapes, showcasing the majestic Mount Everest and the serene Gokyo Lakes. While the journey presents challenging ascents, particularly the Chola Pass, the rewards are truly unforgettable. With ample opportunities for acclimatization, this trek promises a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exhilarating challenges.

Key Points

• The Everest Base Camp via Chola Gokyo Lake trek is a 15-day journey through the Khumbu region of Nepal, offering stunning views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks.
• The trek features culture in Sherpa communities, exploration of Buddhist monasteries, and traversal of challenging high-altitude terrain, including the Cho-la Pass at 5,420 meters.
• The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a gradual ascent through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Dingboche for acclimatization before reaching Everest Base Camp.
• The trek showcases diverse landscapes, including moraines, glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and stunning natural beauty, providing a truly breathtaking experience.
• The crossing of the Cho-la Pass, a high-altitude glacial pass, connects the Khumbu and Gokyo valleys, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks upon successful completion.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Trek

The Everest Base Camp Via Chola Gokyo Lake Trek is a captivating 15-day journey that takes trekkers on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Khumbu region in Nepal.

Priced from $1,655 per person, this wheelchair-accessible trek offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlighting the iconic Mount Everest and Kalapathar, the trek also showcases the stunning Gokyo Lake, Chola Pass, Khumbu glacier, and Ngozumpa glacier.

Immersing participants in local Sherpa culture and Buddhist monasteries, the trek traverses diverse landscapes, including moraines and high-altitude terrain, providing a truly remarkable trekking experience.

Trek Highlights and Experience

A key highlight of the Everest Base Camp Via Chola Gokyo Lake Trek is the opportunity to witness the majestic Mount Everest and embark on the Kalapathar hike, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the world’s highest mountain. Trekkers will also explore the serene Gokyo Lake, traverse the challenging Chola Pass, and marvel at the Khumbu and Ngozumpa glaciers. Along the way, they’ll enjoy the rich Sherpa culture and Buddhist heritage, while surrounded by diverse vegetation, moraines, and awe-inspiring high-altitude landscapes.

Key Attractions	Experience
Mt. Everest & Kalapathar Hike	Breathtaking panoramic views
Gokyo Lake & Chola Pass (5420m)	Serene lakes and challenging high-altitude passes
Khumbu & Ngozumpa Glaciers	Vast glacial expanses and moraine landscapes
Sherpa Culture & Buddhist Monasteries	Immersion in local heritage and traditions
Diverse Vegetation & High Landscapes	Stunning mountain scenery and natural wonders

Detailed Itinerary

The 17-day Everest Base Camp Via Chola Gokyo Lake Trek begins with an arrival in Kathmandu, where participants are transferred to their hotel.

The following day, they’ll fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding. The journey continues through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Dingboche, allowing for acclimatization.

Trekkers will reach Everest Base Camp, hike to Kalapathar, and cross the Cho-la Pass to Gokyo Lake.

After exploring Gokyo Ri, they’ll descend to Namche Bazaar and Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu on the final day.

Flight to Lukla

After arriving in Kathmandu, participants embark on the Everest Base Camp trek by flying to Lukla airport, also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport. The 35-minute flight provides stunning views of the Himalayan landscape, including the towering peaks of the Everest range.

Lukla airport is considered one of the world’s most dangerous airports due to its short runway and challenging landing conditions. Trekkers must be prepared for potential flight delays or cancellations due to unpredictable weather.

Upon arrival, the group begins the trek to Phakding, the first stop on the journey to Everest Base Camp, crossing suspension bridges and passing through traditional Sherpa villages along the way.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ascent to Namche Bazaar

Trekkers embark on the ascent to Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Sherpa trading hub and the gateway to the Khumbu region.

They’ll climb steeply through rhododendron forests and past numerous suspension bridges, gaining over 800 meters in elevation. Along the way, they’ll catch their first glimpse of Everest’s icy peak.

Reaching Namche, they’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayan giants that surround the town. Here, trekkers can explore the local market, visit the Sherpa Cultural Museum, and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing their journey.

The climb to Namche is a challenging but scenic introduction to the wonders of the Everest region.

Acclimatization and Exploration

Acclimatization and exploration are critical components of the Everest Base Camp trek. As trekkers ascend to higher elevations, their bodies must adapt to the reduced oxygen levels. Rest days are built into the itinerary to allow for this process. During these acclimatization days, trekkers can hike to nearby viewpoints, such as Nangkartshang Hill, to aid the acclimatization while also taking in the breathtaking vistas.

Acclimatization Day	Elevation Gained (m)	Duration (hrs)	Objective
Day 7	680	4-5	Hike to Nangkartshang Hill (5,100m)
Day 13	N/A	6-7	Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m)
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

These acclimatization hikes, coupled with rest, prepare trekkers for the challenges that lie ahead, including the ascent to Everest Base Camp and the crossing of the Cho La pass.

Reaching Everest Base Camp

The journey to Everest Base Camp commences with a flight from Kathmandu to the small mountain town of Lukla.

From here, trekkers embark on the classical Everest route, passing through iconic landmarks like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Dingboche.

Along the way, they’re treated to:

• Breathtaking views of the mighty Khumbu glacier and Ngozumpa glacier
• Encounters with the vibrant Sherpa culture and visits to Buddhist monasteries
• Challenging yet rewarding hikes to viewpoints like Kalapathar, offering unparalleled vistas of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.

As trekkers ascend towards Everest Base Camp, the landscape transforms, revealing a world of moraines, high-altitude lakes, and diverse vegetation.

Crossing the Cho-la Pass

After conquering the arduous climb to Everest Base Camp, trekkers face their next formidable challenge: crossing the Cho-la Pass.

At 5,420 meters, the Cho-la is a high-altitude glacial pass that connects the Khumbu and Gokyo valleys. The trek across the pass is grueling, with steep ascents, treacherous moraines, and unpredictable weather.

Trekkers must navigate icy terrain, scramble over boulders, and be prepared for sudden snowstorms. The reward, however, is the breathtaking views of the Gokyo lakes and the towering Himalayan peaks.

Those who successfully cross the Cho-la emerge with a deep sense of accomplishment, having pushed their limits and conquered one of the most challenging sections of the Everest Base Camp trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Times of Year to Do This Trek?

The best times to do this trek are in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when weather conditions are mild, skies are clear, and there’s less chance of snow or rain. Trekking during the summer (June-August) can be more challenging due to the monsoon season.

What Level of Fitness Is Required for This Challenging Trek?

This challenging trek requires a high level of fitness. Trekkers should be able to hike for 6-8 hours per day at high altitudes up to 5,545 meters. Solid cardiovascular health and the ability to handle rigorous terrain are essential.

Are There Any Additional Permits or Documentation Needed?

Trekkers need a Trekking Permit and TIMS Card to embark on this trek. They should also obtain travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking. Proper preparation and equipment are essential for navigating the challenging terrain and weather conditions.

Can I Book This Trek as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this trek. Most trekking operators offer group departures that solo travelers can join. Private options are also available, though they may incur additional costs. Solo trekkers should be prepared for the physical and logistical demands of the trek.

What Gear and Equipment Should I Bring for the Trek?

For this trek, travelers should bring essential gear like hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear, water bottle, sleeping bag, trekking poles, headlamp, and sun protection. It’s also important to pack personal items and any necessary medications.

Recap

The Everest Base Camp via Chola Gokyo Lake Trek offers an unparalleled adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. Trekkers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Everest, serene Gokyo Lakes, and the challenging Chola Pass. This 15-day journey combines culture, natural beauty, and exhilarating challenges, making it a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking an extraordinary trek in the Khumbu region.

You can check if your dates are available here: