| Trip code | |
| Package name | Everest Base Camp Trek Via Cho La Pass |
| Duration | 19 |
| Max. elevation | 5545 m |
| Level | DIFFICULT |
| Transportation | Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | 3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Lodge / Tea House during the trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 1,585 per person |
The Chola Pass EBC Gokyo Trek is a bold venture into the heart of the Khumbu/Everest region, establishing a connection between the iconic Everest Base Camp, the serene Gokyo Valley, and the challenging 5,420-meter-high Chola Pass. Along this expedition, trekkers are treated to unparalleled views of Himalayan giants, including the majestic Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse, Makalu, Amadablam, Kanchenjunga, Nuptse, Mt. Pumori, and more. The route unfolds like a cherished memory, offering a sublime blend of natural beauty, the unique Sherpa culture, dense forests, pristine snowy landscapes, and the formidable high pass.
Gokyo Valley, a hidden Himalayan jewel, unravels before trekkers with panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, Gokyo Lake, and other natural wonders. The trek presents opportunities to witness the Sherpa Mani Rimdu Dance, performed in Sherpa monasteries, and engage in the Dumje festival held in April. Notable highlights of the trek include spellbinding mountain vistas, the Sacred Lakes of Gokyo Valley, charming river valleys, colossal glaciers, and the exhilarating traverse of Chola Pass. The Chola Pass EBC Gokyo Trek stands as an extraordinary journey, a harmonious fusion of natural splendor and cultural richness, ensuring an indelible mark on the memory of every adventurer and making it an unforgettable Himalayan odyssey.
You will be welcomed by our team members at the airport and then be ushered to the hotel. Upon arrival at the airport, our travel representatives will provide a brief overview of the travel itinerary.Staying at a hotel for the night
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks, and among its many attractions, three iconic monuments stand out: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. These sites showcase the rich religious and architectural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.
Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of the oldest and most sacred stupas in Nepal. Perched atop a hill in the western part of Kathmandu, this ancient religious complex offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The stupa is adorned with a gleaming white dome and a gilded spire, topped by a captivating pair of big Buddha eyes that stare out in all four directions, symbolizing the omnipresence of the Buddha.
Surrounding the stupa are various shrines, statues, and Tibetan prayer flags. The site is not only a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists but also a harmonious blend of both Hindu and Buddhist traditions, as evident in the various shrines and temples present on the premises. The playful monkeys that inhabit the area add to the lively and spiritual atmosphere.:
Pashupatinath Temple is a sacred Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River. It is one of the most revered Hindu temples globally and holds immense cultural and religious significance. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Pashupati, the Lord of Animals.
The temple's architecture is a masterpiece of pagoda style with intricate wood carvings and golden embellishments. The complex also includes various shrines, ghats (cremation platforms), and ashrams. Pilgrims from all over the world visit Pashupatinath to seek blessings, attend religious ceremonies, and witness the mesmerizing Aarti (ceremonial prayer) along the riverbanks.
The Bagmati River, which flows alongside the temple, is considered holy, and cremation ceremonies are conducted here, following Hindu traditions. The temple's rich cultural heritage, spiritual ambiance, and the vibrant activities around the temple make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kathmandu.
Boudhanath, often referred to as the Great Stupa, is one of the largest stupas in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the northeastern part of Kathmandu, this imposing structure is a hub of Tibetan Buddhism and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world.
The stupa is massive, with a colossal mandala at its base and a towering spire adorned with the watchful eyes of the Buddha, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. The entire structure is surrounded by a circular market, prayer wheels, and numerous monasteries. Boudhanath is a focal point for Tibetan culture in Kathmandu, and the area is dotted with shops selling Tibetan artifacts, thangkas (religious paintings), and traditional handicrafts.
The ambiance around Boudhanath is tranquil and spiritual, with pilgrims and tourists circumambulating the stupa while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The site becomes particularly magical in the early morning or late evening when the stupa is illuminated, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
On the second morning, you will board a flight to Lukla Airport, also commonly known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport. It is a wonderful mountain flight, and the flight itself can be no less than an adventure as the airport is listed as the most dangerous airport in the world, given the location, altitude, and topography. In less than 30 minutes, you will reach Lukla while enjoying the breathtaking views of the mountains during the flight. After landing in Lukla, we eat a light breakfast before beginning our trek. In around 4 hours, we reach Phakding village, where we will be staying overnight at a guesthouse.
On the third morning, we resume our trek and follow the trail along the DudhKosi River while ascending through Himalayan Pine and Doedar Cedar forests to our ultimate destination, the popular village of Namche Bazaar. The village of Namche has remained a historic trading point for Nepalese and Tibetan traders who exchange salt, dried meat, and other consumable and textile items. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Namche
The fourth day of the trek will be spent in Namche itself for acclimatization purposes. As the altitude will now increase significantly, a day for acclimatization is paramount and strictly advisable for prospective trekkers. A day in Lukla can be spent visiting the local bazaar in Namche or visiting nearby Sherpa villages.If you are not too tired and are ready for a few hours of trekking, then you can go to the Everest hotel for great panoramic views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, and others. Everest Hotel is the highest altitude hotel in the world, located at 3900 meters. Overnight stay at a guesthouse
The trail is easy to follow at first, as we cross valleys through rhododendron, juniper, and large coniferous forests. During spring, the forests are great to see as that is the time when rhododendrons bloom and the fragrance lingers on your nose for many days. We also see Sherpas bringing their herds of yaks to graze on the green pastures. Overnight stay at a guesthouse.
The trail now becomes gradually more difficult as the trekkers have to negotiate thick forests, an increasing altitude, and a lack of settlement areas. The trails continue to climb up the side of the valley until they reach Machhermo. It is also believed that the region around Machhermo is the home of the Yeti, the mythical snowman. Yeti is thought to live on snow, somewhere near the Everest region. Overnight stay at a guesthouse
On the seventh day, we climb just around 300 meters and reach Gokyo Valley. We come across several glacier lakes on our way before reaching the amazing Gokyo Valley. Overnight stay at a guesthouse
Climb Gokyo-Ri in the morning for panoramic views of Everest and neighboring peaks. In the afternoon, trek to Thagnak.
The most crucial day of the trek is on the ninth day, as it is along the trek and we have to reach the pass by 9 or 10 a.m. or else the weather conditions will greatly hinder our journey. The trek starts early in the morning, at 5 a.m. The trail can also be difficult due to snow and a slippery surface. Strong winds and the high altitude could also pose problems for the trekkers. However, once you reach the Chola Pass, you will forget all the difficulties that you endured during the trek as You will be dazzled by the view from the top. We then descend to the Dzongla at noon. Overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Continue the trek to Lobuche, a key stop before reaching Everest Base Camp, with breathtaking views of the Khumbu Glacier.
Achieve the goal of reaching Everest Base Camp, surrounded by the iconic peaks. Return to Gorakshep for the night.
Descend to Kyang-Jima via Tengboche, passing through scenic landscapes and the famous Tengboche Monastery.
Continue the descent to Monjo, passing through Namche Bazaar and enjoying the last views of the Everest region.
The trek continues further downhill as we reach Lukla after almost four hours of trekking. You will be staying in Lukla for the rest of the day and preparing yourself to board a flight back to Kathmandu the next day.
On the final day of the tour, you will board a flight back to Kathmandu after a 30-minute, exhilarating mountain flight. The rest of your time in Kathmandu will be spent shopping and buying souvenirs for your loved ones. Kathmandu hotel stay for one night.
A contingency day is provided for flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances or for individual exploration.
On the 17th day of the tour package, you will return to your country via the international airport in Kathmandu.