Tour Overview

Trip Code
DE-0032
Starting Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Everest Region
Max Altitude
5,555m / 18,192ft
Duration
20 Days
Country
Nepal
Trip Grade
Challenging
Activities
Trekking
Best Season
March to May (Spring) and September to November

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass trek is one of the most exciting journeys in Nepal. This trek takes you to the famous Everest Base Camp, where you can see the mighty Mt. Everest up close. But unlike the regular route, this trek also crosses the high and challenging Cho La Pass, leading you to the stunning Gokyo Valley.

Along the way, you will walk past glaciers, high mountain lakes, and traditional Sherpa villages. The trek offers amazing views of some of the tallest mountains in the world, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. It is a perfect choice for those who want to explore more remote areas and enjoy a mix of adventure, nature, and culture. This 20 days journey with 16 trekking days shows you the beauty and spirit of the Everest region like no other trek.

Led by Hari Dharel, Founder of Destiny Excursion and Honorary Consul General of Denmark to Nepal. With 35+ years in Himalayan tourism, Mr. Dharel has served as Chairman of the Himalayan Rescue Association Nepal and General Secretary of TAAN. Every trek we run reflects his lifetime in these mountains.

Crossing Cho La Pass: A Challenging Route to Everest Base Camp

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass trek is an exciting and adventurous journey that takes you deeper into the heart of the Everest region. This route is perfect for trekkers who want to experience the classic Everest Base Camp trail with the added challenge of crossing the high Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. This high mountain pass links the eastern village of Dzonglho to the western village of Dragnag, offering stunning and rare views of the surrounding peaks.

Beginning at Lukla, you will hike through classic Sherpa villages and beautiful scenery that will give you the essence of the Himalayas. On the way, you will be passing the Everest Base Camp, which is the highest base camp in the world. It’s incredibly beautiful and hard to believe until you see it yourself. This trek is not just a regular trek – it takes you through glaciers and other distant paths to the beautiful Gokyo Valley.

Gokyo is a secret jewel of Everest, and it harbors the Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the longest glacier in Nepal and the main source of the Dudh Koshi River. It is one of the highest villages in the world (almost 4,800 meters), and it provides a quiet place in the less-trafficked trekking areas.

Among the highlights is the ascent to Gokyo, which is a vantage point that provides outstanding panoramic views of four of the tallest mountains in the world: Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. It is not just a trek through a beautiful landscape but also an experience of friendly people and the rich culture of the Sherpa people.

Evenings are spent in comfy teahouses in high-altitude villages, where you can rest and exchange experiences with other trekkers. The trek is an ideal combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration that makes it a memorable trek in the Himalayas.

Be it a veteran trekker seeking a tough yet rewarding trail or a person who wishes to explore the Everest region beyond the popular routes, the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass trek is a fantastic option for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Tour Highlights

  • Reach Everest Base Camp, the starting point for climbers aiming for the world’s highest peak.
  • Cross the dramatic Cho La Pass (5,420m), one of the most scenic and challenging sections of the trek
  • Discover the peaceful beauty of Gokyo Valley and its turquoise lakes
  • Climb Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for the best panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
  • Walk along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal
  • Stay in Gokyo village, one of the highest permanent settlements in the world
  • Experience the warm hospitality and culture of the Sherpa people in traditional Himalayan villages
  • Enjoy stunning mountain views every day throughout the journey, including famous peaks like Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and many more

Points of Attraction

Everest High Pass trekking via Cho La Pass is more than a typical trek to the base of the highest mountains in the world. In fact, this trekking journey takes you into an adventure that combines the most fascinating Himalayas, trekking through ranges of mountains far from human civilization, rich Sherpa cultures, and some of the most fascinating viewpoints of the natural beauty of Nepal. These are some of the important features you experience during this journey with Destiny Excursion:

Scenic and Natural Attractions

  • Scenic Flight to Lukla: Enjoy one of the planet’s most exhilarating mountain flights with breathtaking vistas of valleys, rivers, and Himalayan mountain ranges as you enter the Everest region.
  • Sagarmatha National Park: Embark upon an expedition through a preserved area of glaciers, mountain peaks, pine, rhododendron, and nicely filtered mountain air.
  • Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Lakes: Relish the breathtaking turquoise glacial lakes, Gokyo, set amidst the gigantic Himalayan giants and icy moraines.
  • Cho La Pass (5,420m): Trekking on one of the most spectacular passes of the Everest region in the stark Himalayan landscape, glaciers, and an adventurous experience.
  • Khumbu Glacier and Icefall: Trek parallel to the planet’s most recognized glacier, taking in the glacial terrain around the mighty Everest.

Cultural and Heritage Sites

  • Sherpa Villages of Khumbu: Show an ancient way of life in Sherpa villages of Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, Phortse, and other villages, with the living culture of the Khumbu region surrounding Mt. Everest.
  • Ancient Monasteries: Important Buddhist monasteries include Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu, offering great views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
  • Prayer Flags and Mani Walls: Walk through prayer flags, carved mani stones, and chortens as manifestations of rich Buddhist culture in the Himalayan range.
  • Warm Sherpa Hospitality: Experience real mountain hospitality, staying in local tea houses and interacting with the Sherpa people.

Adventure and Trekking Highlights

  • Everest Base Camp (5,364m): Base of the mighty Mount Everest, this is where adventure-seekers set out on their attempts at reaching the summit.
  • Kala Patthar (5,545m): Hike to the spot with the finest views in the Everest region for sunrise or sunset views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding peaks.
  • Gokyo Ri (5,357m): Ascend Gokyo Ri for a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the entire Gokyo valley.
  • High Altitude Trek Challenge: Enjoy a rewarding and challenging trek which involves some classic Everest circuits and a high pass.
  • Trekking with Experts: Conducted with licensed guides who help trekkers acclimatize, stay safe, and learn about local culture.

Stay and Experience

  • Accommodation in traditional tea houses in the mountain region, providing basic comfort and local hospitality.
  • Pass through the Sherpa center of Namche Bazaar, with bakeries, mountain cafes, markets, and acclimatization hikes.
  • Begin and end your trip in Kathmandu, a city that offers UNESCO World Heritage Sites, culture, food, and shopping.
  • This trek passing through Cho La Pass provides an entire Everest experience encompassing famous sites, hidden valleys, culture, and high-altitude adventure.

Itinerary

Elevation: 1,400m

Welcome to Nepal! Once you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our friendly representative will be there to greet you with a warm welcome. Once you have a brief meet and greet, you will be taken to your city hotel. After checking in, you should relax, shower and recuperate after the flight. In case you feel energetic, you can take a short walk around to get the first impression of the culture and everyday life of Kathmandu.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Elevation: 500m

After having breakfast, we gathered for a detailed trek orientation. During this session, you shall meet our guides and support staff, review your trekking equipment, and complete the required permits and final preparations. This briefing is designed to ensure you feel ready and confident before you start the journey. Once everything is ready, we head on to a scenic drive to Ramechhap, which is the main point of departure towards Lukla. This journey passes through picturesque countryside, terraced farmlands, and peaceful villages.

Overnight: Hotel in Ramechhap

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,610m

We begin the day with an early morning flight from Ramechhap to Lukla, a thrilling 35-minute journey offering stunning views of the Himalayas. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, you’ll meet the rest of your trekking team and have a short briefing before we start walking. We start our trek slowly at Lukla and start our journey towards a small riverside village of Phakding. On the way, we will arrange the necessary permits for Sagarmatha National Park and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. The path goes along Dudh Koshi River, and it passes through tiny villages, prayer wheels, and beautiful pine forests. It takes us approximately 3 to 4 hours of trekking to reach Phakding.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,440m

After breakfast in Phakding, we continue our journey along the Dudh Koshi River, heading toward the famous mountain town of Namche Bazaar. The trek takes about 6 to 7 hours, with a mix of gradual and steep climbs. Along the way, we pass through beautiful forests, cross several suspension bridges, and reach Monjo, where we enter the Sagarmatha National Park. The last section of the hike is an uphill climb and can be challenging, but it is worth it. Assuming the weather is clear, you may have your first view of Mt. Everest prior to reaching Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town with markets, cafes, and mountain views.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,440m

Day 5 is a rest and acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, helping your body adjust to the higher altitude before we continue to higher elevations. We have a brief hike in the morning to the Sagarmatha National Park Museum, and here you can view a statue of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and read about the mountains, wildlife, and Sherpa culture. Afterwards, we will trek uphill to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest luxury hotels in the world, where you will get a spectacular view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Thamserku, and other mountains.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,867m

After breakfast in Namche, we continue our trek toward Tengboche, a peaceful village known for its stunning mountain views and spiritual atmosphere. The trail offers beautiful scenery, passing through forests of pine and rhododendron, with occasional views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. The path first descends to the Dudh Koshi River, then climbs steadily up to Tengboche, which sits on a hill with panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The renowned Tengboche Monastery, the largest and most significant monastery in the Khumbu region, is located here. You will have time to visit the monastery and experience its peaceful atmosphere.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,410m

This day’s journey takes us higher into the heart of the Himalayas. We begin by descending through a beautiful rhododendron forest, then cross the Imja Khola via a small suspension bridge. After the river crossing, we climb steadily to Pangboche, a traditional Sherpa village with close-up views of Ama Dablam. The trail then slowly rises through alpine terrain to Dingboche, a quiet village with terraced fields and stone walls. Dingboche offers excellent scenery of Lhotse, Island Peak, and other high mountains.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,410m

This is a rest and acclimatization day in Dingboche, giving your body time to adjust to the higher altitude. We’ll take it easy in the morning, enjoy a relaxed breakfast, and then head out for a short acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m). This nearby viewpoint offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and parts of the Imja Valley. We then walk back to Dingboche for lunch, and the rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,910m

We leave Dingboche and follow the trail through a broad valley, with stunning views of Cholatse and Tawache towering to the left. As we continue, the path turns right and climbs more steeply toward the Khumbu Glacier. Along the way, we reach Thukla Pass, where you’ll see many stone memorials built in memory of climbers and Sherpas who lost their lives on Mt. Everest. After a short rest at the memorial area, we continue on a gentle trail to reach Lobuche, a small settlement tucked below high, snowy peaks.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 5,170m

This is a big and exciting day as we finally reach Everest Base Camp. We begin early in the morning from Lobuche and trek for about 3 hours along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep, the last settlement before base camp. After checking in and having a quick lunch, we continue our hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), which takes about 5 to 6 hours round-trip. The path is rocky and irregular, and at places we have to follow the moraine and glacier routes, so we go slowly and steadily. You will find yourself at the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, with ice towers, prayer flags, and base camp tents (in climbing season). We return to Gorakshep to spend the night.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,830m

We start early in the morning for a hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m), one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region. After a steep climb, we reach the top just in time to witness the sunrise over Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. The glowing golden light on Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori makes this one of the most unforgettable moments of the trek. After enjoying the views and taking photos, we descend back to Gorakshep for breakfast. Next, we start our trek to Dzonglha, a low-traffic path that takes us off the main Everest Base Camp trail, offering a quiet environment and up-close perspective of Cholatse and other magnificent mountains.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,700m

This day is one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek. We begin early in the morning with a steep uphill climb to reach the top of the Cho La Pass, which stands at 5,420 meters. The ascent is tough, especially due to the altitude and icy sections, but the views from the top are absolutely stunning, with snow-covered peaks all around. After spending a short time at the pass, we carefully descend on a rocky and sometimes slippery trail down to Dragnag, a small settlement located on the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier. The full day’s walk takes about 7 to 8 hours, so it’s important to walk slowly, stay hydrated, and take breaks when needed.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,790m

Day 13 is a short and easier day, giving your body time to rest and adjust before the next adventure. After breakfast in Dragnag, we walk for about 3 to 4 hours to reach the stunning village of Gokyo, one of the highest settlements in the world. The trail crosses the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier, and offers amazing views of Mount Cho Oyu, Gokyo Ri, and Renjo La Pass along the way. As we arrive at Gokyo, you will see the beautiful turquoise lakes around the place. You have the option of visiting Gokyo Lake after lunch and walking around the village, or just resting and enjoying the high-altitude scenery.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 5,360m

After an early breakfast, we hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,360m), a popular viewpoint. The steep 2 to 3-hour climb is well worth the effort, as it offers one of the best panoramic views in the entire Everest region. From the top, you can see four of the world’s highest mountains: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, all in one breathtaking view. You can also enjoy the sights of the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier below. After spending time at the summit, we return to Gokyo village to rest, relax, and soak in the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,110m

On this day, we start our journey back, retracing the trail through the Gokyo Valley. The walk includes some steep ups and downs, but mostly it’s a gradual descent. We pass through small yak pastures and stone-walled fields, enjoying quiet trails and lovely views of the surrounding peaks. After about 6 to 7 hours, we reach the peaceful village of Dhole, where we rest for the night.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,440m

The journey continues with a descent toward Namche Bazaar. The trail first takes us down to the Dudh Koshi River, where we cross a suspension bridge. From there, we climb steeply up to Mong La, a small ridge with great views of the surrounding valleys. The trail then drops down and follows a slow walk through heavy rhododendron and pine forests. We return to Namche Bazaar after approximately 5 to 6 hours of trekking, where you get to have a hot meal, a hot shower, and a comfortable teahouse.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,850m

This day is the final day of trekking. We leave Namche Bazaar and begin a long downhill walk, descending steeply for about 2 hours to reach Jorsale village. After checking out of Sagarmatha National Park, we continue our journey down the Dudh Koshi River. The path becomes easier here, and the gradual walk is about 4 to 5 hours further, through Phakding, Choplung, and some small villages. We finally reach Lukla where we formally conclude our trek.

Overnight: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 1,400m

We take an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali, leaving behind the mountains that have been our home for the past days. The short flight offers one last chance to admire the Himalayan peaks from above before we land in Ramechhap district. From Manthali, we begin a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. Passing through rolling hills, river valleys, and traditional villages, the road gradually brings us back to the bustling capital.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Elevation: 1,400m

This is a free day to relax and enjoy Kathmandu at your own pace. After your long trek, take this time to rest, recharge, or explore the city more deeply. Local markets such as Thamel are open to you to buy souvenirs, handicrafts, or trekking equipment. Numerous popular cafes and restaurants are also available where you can taste Nepali and international food. In case you are still willing to sightsee, you can visit Patan Durbar Square or other cultural attractions in the vicinity.

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Elevation: 1,400m

Day 20 marks the end of your incredible journey in the Himalayas. After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deep appreciation for the mountains and local culture. Thank you for trekking with us.

Overnight:

Meals: Breakfast

Trek Route

What's included

  • Welcome dinner on the day of arrival.
  • Comfortable hotel accommodation in cities on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Tea house or lodge accommodation during the trekking period.
  • All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek).
  • All domestic flights listed in the itinerary for both clients and guides.
  • Private ground transportation for all transfers and travel as per the itinerary.
  • A licensed and experienced trekking guide and porters, including their transport, flights, accommodation, meals, insurance, and required equipment.
  • All necessary trekking permits, national park fees, and conservation area entry fees.
  • First aid kit suitable for the group and trekking route (please inform us in advance if specific medication is needed).
  • Single Room Supplement – If there is an odd number of travelers, the cost for a single room will be included and evenly divided among the group in the per-person rate.

What's excluded

  • International flights to and from Nepal, visa fees, airport taxes, and excess baggage charges.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and rescue or evacuation (mandatory).
  • Any services or activities not specified in the itinerary, such as extra nights, optional tours, or sightseeing extensions.
  • Personal trekking equipment or gear you may need to purchase or rent (guidance available upon request).
  • Personal expenses, including bottled water, soft drinks, bar bills, laundry, phone calls, postage, entrance fees, photography charges, donations, and snacks.
  • Additional costs at tea houses or lodges for hot showers, single rooms, attached bathrooms, or battery charging.
  • Tips for guides, porters, drivers, or hotel/restaurant staff.
  • Expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, road closures, natural disasters, strikes, or currency fluctuations.

Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek is a combination of the renowned Everest Base Camp Trek, the Gokyo Valley Trek, and the pass crossing, featuring the adventure aspect of the Cho La Pass. This trek is known for its glaciers, lakes, and off-the-beaten-path trails, along with the popular Everest viewpoints. The Cho La Pass has an altitude of 5,420m.

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass trek is adjudged to be a difficult trek owing to the altitude and the fact that the trek has to cross the Cho La Pass. The trek has long days on the trails and entails steep climbs that might have snow and ice on them.

The most preferred time for the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek is spring, which spans from March to May, and autumn, which extends from September to November, due to the favorable weather, clear skies, and easy accessibility of the pass.

The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit are required for the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek. It is essential to have both permits if you are going to trek around the Everest region. Many times, these permits are arranged by your trekking agency.

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek provides sightings of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The route includes glaciers, alpine forests, moraines, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes. Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri provide panoramic viewpoints.

It would be favorable to have previous experience in trekking if one plans to undertake the Everest Base Camp via the Cho La Pass Trek. Nevertheless, it is not essential. Being physically fit and pacing steady can be quite helpful to beginners embarking on a journey to higher altitudes.

Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass trek traverses through Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. One gets exposed to a monastery, prayer flags, mani walls, as well as Tibetan Buddhist culture. A major cultural attraction on the trek route is the Tengboche Monastery.

Everest Base Camp Via Cho La Pass Trek begins with a flight to Lukla and gradual trekking towards Namche Bazaar and Gokyo Valley. Following the trek over Cho La Pass, the path further leads to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Lastly, there would be a trekking excursion back to Lukla and a flight home to Kathmandu.

Share to Social Media

Starting From:

US$2647

No. of peoplePrice per person
1 Pax$ 3700
2-3 Pax$ 2647
4-5 Pax$ 2424
6-7 Pax$ 2428
8-9 Pax$ 2358
10 Pax$ 2284

Plan your Next Great Adventure

Fill in your details below, and our dedicated team will be in touch with a personalized plan, pricing, and answers to all your questions.