EBC Chola Pass Trek

Namaste and Greetings from Big Sky Treks Nepal!

Your Everest Base Camp and Chola pass ( EBC and Gokyo Lake) Trek begins the moment you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where a warm welcome awaits from our representative. You'll be escorted in a private tourist vehicle to your hotel in the heart of the city, giving you time to rest and shake off jet lag. Later, join us for a friendly pre-trip briefing, where you'll meet your trekking guide and fellow group members, learn about the route, culture, meals, and accommodations ahead, and get all your questions answered. Afterward, feel free to explore the lively streets of Thamel.

Start your day with breakfast followed by an optional tour of Kathmandu’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Durbar Square, Swyambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. This cultural experience showcases Nepal’s rich heritage. If you prefer, simply relax or explore Thamel to purchase any remaining trekking essentials. Preparing your gear today is vital.

Because we might travel to Ramechhap early for the flight to Lukla, please sleep early. We provide a duffel bag for your trekking items, shared between two people. Your extra luggage stays safely stored at the hotel. Please pack carefully to ensure everything is ready for your mountain adventure.

Your Everest Base Camp adventure begins with a thrilling scenic flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla’s dramatic Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Sit on the left side for spectacular Himalayan views, including glimpses of Mount Everest. After landing, meet your trekking crew, including porters and assistant guide, for a tea break at a local hotel before starting the trek.

The trail descends through Choplung village with its Buddhist prayer monuments, then follows the beautiful Dudh Koshi River with gentle ups and downs to Phakding. Settle into a cozy riverside lodge and enjoy the charming mountain village atmosphere on your first day of the iconic Everest Base Camp trek.

The trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar follows the scenic Dudh Koshi River through vibrant villages and lush forests. After entering Sagarmatha National Park for permit checks, trekkers enjoy lunch at Jorsalle before crossing iconic suspension bridges, including the thrilling Hillary Bridge.

The steep final climb rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest. Arrival at the bustling Sherpa hub of Namche Bazaar offers cozy lodges, lively cafes, and warm hospitality in this stunning mountain amphitheater—ideal for rest and acclimatization on the Everest Base Camp trek.

Climb High, Sleep Low on Everest Base Camp Trek

On your acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, follow the golden rule of climbing high and sleeping low. After breakfast, hike to Hotel Everest View for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Stop at the National Park Museum or Sherpa Cultural Museum to explore Khumbu’s rich heritage and mountaineering history.

Return to town for a relaxed afternoon exploring vibrant shops, cozy cafes, and bakeries. This gradual altitude gain helps your body adjust safely, preparing you for the challenging high-altitude sections ahead on the iconic Everest Base Camp trek.

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trek toward the Everest Base Camp wilderness begins with excitement. Hiking through lush forests and passing sacred stupas, you are rewarded with captivating mountain views. After lunch at Phungi Tenga and crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, the trail climbs toward famous Tengboche.

Stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam make Tengboche incredibly alluring. The historic monastery here serves as a major center for Sherpa culture and Buddhism. In the afternoon, traditional Buddhist chanting ceremonies provide deep peace. Afterward, you can enjoy a comfortable rest in beautiful Tengboche .

From Tengboche, the trail descends through forests to the Imja River before reaching Pangboche. This historic village, the highest permanent settlement in the region, offers a glimpse into authentic Sherpa culture and ancient monastic life. Dominating the skyline, the iconic Ama Dablam, known as the Queen of the Himalayas, provides a breathtaking backdrop throughout your scenic journey toward higher altitudes.

Continuing upward, you arrive at Dingboche, a vital acclimatization stop within the Imja Valley. Cozy lodges and cafes provide the perfect sanctuary to rest. Surrounded by Himalayan giants, this peaceful village offers stunning mountain views, ensuring you are prepared for the adventure ahead.

Today is a vital acclimatization day in Dingboche, 4,410m, following the golden mountain rule of climbing high and sleeping low. After breakfast, hike to Nangkartshang Peak at 5,083m, ascending above barren, treeless terrain into dramatic ridgelines and sweeping panoramas. The summit rewards with breathtaking 360-degree views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Cholatse, and Taboche.

Return to Dingboche for a restful afternoon exploring cozy teahouses and coffee shops. The crisp mountain air, peaceful Sherpa hospitality, and dramatic amphitheater of snow-capped peaks make this charming Khumbu village the perfect place to recharge before heading higher on the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Leaving Dingboche, you walk toward Thukla alongside the rocky Khumbu Glacier. You soon reach the solemn Thukla Pass Memorial. This quiet place is filled with stone piles and prayer flags. These serve as tributes to brave climbers who died chasing their dreams on these giant mountains. Stopping here gives you time to reflect on their courage while surrounded by the beautiful high Himalayas.

Afterward, you head to the village of Lobuche. Sitting under massive peaks like Nuptse and Pumori, this town acts as your final shelter before Everest Base Camp. You feel mountain magic here while resting in warm lodges.

The long-awaited highlight of the Everest Base Camp trek begins early from Lobuche after a hearty breakfast. Trekkers ascend gradually past the Pyramid research center, crossing rocky moraine above the Khumbu Glacier while enjoying stunning views of Pumori, Nuptse, and surrounding peaks. The trail leads to Gorak Shep for rest and lunch before the final push across glaciated paths to the ultimate destination.

Everest Base Camp stands as the iconic heart of Himalayan mountaineering. Nestled at the foot of the world’s highest mountain, it offers dramatic icy landscapes dominated by the massive Khumbu Icefall and glacier. Here, trekkers experience the thrill of standing amid towering peaks including Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse. During spring expeditions, the camp buzzes with international climbers, colorful tents, and vibrant energy. In quieter seasons, it provides peaceful solitude perfect for reflection and photography beside the famous Everest Base Camp rock.

Reaching this legendary spot delivers an indescribable sense of accomplishment and lifelong memories. After soaking in the grandeur, trekkers return to Gorak Shep for well-deserved rest, celebrating a personal triumph in one of the planet’s most epic high-altitude adventures.

The day begins with an early morning hike to Kala Patthar, the premier viewpoint of the Everest region. At 5,545 meters, this rocky summit rewards trekkers with breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, and the Khumbu Glacier. Watching the sunrise paint the world’s highest peaks in golden hues creates an unforgettable, magical experience and the closest views of Everest possible on the trek.

After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, the route continues through Lobuche and past Thukla memorials toward Dzongla. The trail features steep rocky sections, narrow paths, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes, offering spectacular mountain vistas along the way. This challenging but rewarding segment marks the transition toward the Cho La Pass.

Sleep early tonight to prepare for tomorrow’s big day crossing the demanding Cho La Pass. Rest well and conserve energy for this thrilling high-altitude adventure on your Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes trek.

Early in the morning after breakfast, trekkers embark on the challenging crossing of Cho La Pass, one of the most beautiful and demanding passes on the Everest Base Camp to Gokyo Lakes route. This high-altitude adventure requires crampons, trekking poles, and careful preparation as the trail transitions from rocky ridges to a steep, slippery ice trail. The dramatic landscape features towering snow-capped peaks, glacial views, and rugged Himalayan terrain.

Cho La Pass sits amid pristine wilderness with no nearby settlements. At the summit, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, offering breathtaking panoramas of surrounding mountains and glaciers. The icy section demands focus and proper gear for safe navigation, creating an exhilarating experience for seasoned trekkers seeking adventure beyond the classic EBC route.

After summiting, the trail descends carefully over snow, loose rocks, and boulders toward Thangnak village. Rest well in this remote settlement, reflecting on your achievement. Proper preparation and early rest ensure safety and enjoyment on this iconic high pass crossing.

Departing early from Thangnak, trekkers cross the impressive Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas stretching over 36 kilometers. This rugged traverse over ice and moraine leads to the pristine Gokyo Valley. The trail, though challenging, rewards adventurers with stunning views as you approach the famous series of turquoise glacial lakes nestled amid towering peaks.

Gokyo Lakes, the world’s highest freshwater lake system, sit between 4,700 and 5,000 meters. The vibrant blue waters of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, create a breathtaking contrast against the snow-capped mountains. Surrounded by dramatic rock cliffs and glaciers, the area offers peaceful lakeside beauty and majestic vistas of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and other Himalayan giants. Gokyo village, located on the lake shore, provides cozy teahouses perfect for relaxation.

After reaching this high-altitude paradise, explore the surrounding area with short walks around the lakes. The serene environment and panoramic mountain scenery make Gokyo one of the most spectacular destinations on the Everest Base Camp and Cho La Pass trek. This magical day offers unforgettable moments in Nepal’s pristine high Himalayas

Begin the day with a steep and rewarding climb to Gokyo Ri, one of the finest viewpoints in the entire Khumbu region. Perched high above the turquoise lakes, Gokyo Ri offers spectacular 360-degree panoramas of four towering 8,000-meter peaks — Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The summit delivers breathtaking vistas of the Ngozumpa Glacier, shimmering Gokyo Lakes, and countless snow-capped Himalayan giants, creating an unforgettable sunrise or clear-day experience that captures the true grandeur of the region.

After enjoying the majestic mountain scenery, descend through rugged trails past Tibetan chortens and dramatic landscapes. The path winds down from the high Gokyo Valley, revealing beautiful views of Thamserku and Kantega peaks along the way. This scenic route leads to the peaceful village of Dole, nestled in the Dudh Koshi Valley and surrounded by impressive mountain walls.

Dole serves as a comfortable stop with cozy guesthouses, offering trekkers a chance to rest and reflect on the incredible high-altitude journey. This segment beautifully combines adventure and serenity on the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes trek.

After a night in Dole, the trail descends through diverse landscapes toward Phortse Tenga and Mong La Danda before reaching the vibrant hub of Namche Bazaar. This pleasant downhill journey offers beautiful views of Mount Khumbila, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks as you pass through Sherpa villages and lush rhododendron forests.

Along the way, keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife including musk deer, blue sheep, and various colorful birds thriving in the rich alpine environment. Arriving back in Namche Bazaar feels rewarding, allowing time to relax, shop for souvenirs, and celebrate your incredible Gokyo Cho La Pass and Everest Base Camp trekking achievement.

On the last trekking day, descend from Namche Bazaar through lush pine forests and picturesque villages like Monjo and Phakding. Cross iconic suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River while enjoying final views of the majestic Khumbu Himalayas. This rewarding downhill journey offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on your incredible adventure before reaching Lukla.

In Lukla, celebrate your achievement with your team, guides, and porters. The next morning, take an early scenic flight back to Kathmandu (direct or via Ramechhap/Manathali Airport followed by a drive). This memorable day marks the triumphant conclusion of your Gokyo Cho La Pass and Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal.

After a memorable final breakfast in Lukla, trekkers head to the airport for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu or Ramechhap (Manthali). The short aerial journey offers breathtaking aerial views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. Upon landing in Ramechhap, a comfortable private drive brings you back to the vibrant capital city.

In Kathmandu, relax and rejuvenate at your hotel. The afternoon is free for personal activities, spa treatments, or reflecting on your incredible Everest Base Camp adventure.

Big Sky Treks includes an extra buffer day in Kathmandu to accommodate possible flight delays to or from Lukla caused by unpredictable Himalayan weather. If your Everest Base Camp itinerary runs smoothly, enjoy this free day exploring Thamel’s vibrant cafes, bars, and shops or revisiting favorite landmarks.

This spare day offers perfect flexibility for souvenir shopping, relaxing with fellow trekkers, or joining optional tours to historic Bhaktapur and Patan. End your unforgettable adventure with a special farewell dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine, celebrating your successful trek with guides and team

After your unforgettable 19-day Everest Base Camp trek with Cho La Pass and Gokyo Lakes adventure, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu. Spend any remaining time exploring Thamel for last-minute souvenir shopping to remember your Himalayan journey.

Our team will arrange a comfortable airport transfer three hours before your international flight. We bid you a warm farewell, hoping the majestic mountain views and genuine Sherpa hospitality create lifelong memories. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal for your next trekking expedition.