Everest Base Camp

Nepal

Everest Base Camp Via Chola Pass 20 days

  • Price From: $ 2647.42

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 Novemb

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.

Details

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 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

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. It is already the day of your trekking adventure, and today, you have to relax and get settled.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Welcome Dinner

 

Day 2: Trek briefing and Drive to Ramechhap

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. Travelling this route does not just reduce the early morning rush for the Lukla flight, but also offers you an authentic look into the rural way of life, far away from Kathmandu's busy secrets. 

  • Overnight: Hotel in Ramechaap 

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding

We begin the day with an early morning flight from Kathmandu 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. With clear weather, you will get your first mountain views, such as Mount Kongde (6,086m).

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft)

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. In this case, you will be asked to present your permits and be allowed to go further into the Everest region. Another highlight of the day is the crossing of the Hillary Suspension Bridge, which is one of the highest and most famous bridges in the region. You can also see the newly constructed Everest Bungee site. The last section of the hike is an uphill climb, and it 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

 

Day 5: Acclimatisation in Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft)

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. Namche is a perfect place to spend a day, as it is tucked between mountain ridges and surrounded by stunning Himalayan views.

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 on informative displays. Afterwards, we will trek uphill to the Everest View Hotel, which is one of the highest luxury hotels in the world, possibly in two hours. Here you will get a spectacular view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse and Thamserku and other mountains. It will assist in acclimatization and still allow you to have some time to rest in the afternoon.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 6: Trek to Tyangboche (3,867m/12,687ft) 5-6 hrs

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 in Tengboche. You will have time to go to the monastery, see the daily routine of Buddhist monks, and have a relaxing atmosphere. You will spend the night in a teahouse nearby, only a few steps away, and this is a beautiful and spiritual place.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunchand Dinner

 

Day 7: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,600ft)

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 (river) 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, one of the most striking peaks in the region. The mountain is visible most of the day, and therefore it is a beautiful companion on the trail. The trail then slowly rises through alpine terrain with fewer trees and more open country to Dingboche, a quiet village with terraced fields and stone walls. Dingboche is a quiet place to rest and has excellent scenery of Lhotse, Island Peak, and other high mountains.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 8: Acclimatization day in Dingboche (4,410m/14,560ft) 4-5 hrs

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.

Our goal is 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. The climb is very challenging yet rewarding, and it makes your body ready to face the coming days. We then walk back to Dingboche to take lunch, and the rest of the day is at leisure to relax, take a stroll around the village, or just relax in the teahouse.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 9: Trek to Lobuche(4,910m/16,109ft)

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 a place called Thukla Pass, where you'll see many stone memorials (cairns). These are built in memory of climbers and Sherpas who lost their lives on Mt. Everest, a moving and powerful part of the journey. 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. You may feel the altitude here, so we walk slowly and drink plenty of water.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 10: Trek to Gorakshep (5,170m/16,962ft) + visit EBC (5,364m/17,598ft)

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, which takes about 5 to 6 hours round-trip. The path is also 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 the base camp tents (in climbing season). Respect climbers who are getting ready for their expeditions. Spending a little time in this once-in-a-lifetime experience, we go back to Gorakshep to spend the night.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 11: Kala Patthar (5,555m/18,192ft) sunrise view + trek to Dzonglho (4,830m)

We start early in the morning for a hike to Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region. After a steep climb, we reach the top at 5,555 meters, 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, which is a low-traffic and less popular path that will take us off the main Everest Base Camp trail. The trek to Dzonglha provides a quiet environment and up-close perspective of Cholatse and other magnificent mountains.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 12: Trek to Dragnag(4,700m) via Cho La Pass (5,420m/17,782ft)

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. Once in Dragnag, you can rest and enjoy a quiet evening after a big day in the mountains.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 13: Trek to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715ft)

On the 13th day is 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 as your body adjusts to the altitude.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 14: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360m / 17,585ft) + Rest Day in Gokyo – 2 to 3 hours

After an early breakfast, we hike up to Gokyo Ri, a popular viewpoint standing at 5,360 meters. 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 and 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 and Dinner

 

Day 15: Trek back to Dhole (4,110m/13,689ft)

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 and Dinner

 

Day 16: Trek back to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft)

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 after a brief rest at Mong La. On the way, you might see mountain goats or Himalayan birds. 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 after a long number of days in the higher Himalayas.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 17: Trek back to Lukla (2,850m/9,350ft)

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. You will have an opportunity to rest, have your last night in the mountains and congratulate your trekking team on the completion of your adventure.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunchand and Dinner

Day 18: Fly to Manthali + Drive to KTM

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. By afternoon or evening, we arrive at our hotel in Kathmandu where you can finally enjoy a hot shower, rest, and reflect on the incredible adventure you’ve just completed.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals : Breakfast, Lunch

Day 19: Relax day in Kathmandu

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 Garden of Dreams, or other cultural attractions in the vicinity. This is a day of relaxation and the last moments of your trip to Nepal.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Breakfast

 

Day 20: Departure

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. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey ahead!

  • Meals: Breakfast

 

Trek Route

Everest Base Camp Via chola Pass route map

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 (we can advise on appropriate tipping practices).

  • Expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, road closures, natural disasters, strikes, or currency fluctuations.