Everest Base Camp Via Cho La Pass Trek

                                        
                                        destination
                                        Everest Base Camp
                                    
                                        duration
                                        16 Days
                                    
                                        grade
                                        Difficult
                                    
                                        start/end point
                                        Kathmandu/Kathmandu
                                    
                                        max altitude
                                        5,545m
                                    
                                        meal
                                        Available
                                    
                                        accommodation
                                        Tea house & lodge

Overview

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek is one of the most iconic and rewarding trekking adventures in Nepal, offering a complete Himalayan experience beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route. This carefully designed 16-day Everest Trek itinerary combines the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420m), the pristine Gokyo Lakes, and two of the region's best viewpoints Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Gokyo Ri (5,357m). Along the way, the trail passes through traditional Sherpa villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, alpine forests, rugged glaciers, and high mountain landscapes while showcasing spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and many other Himalayan giants. Compared to the standard Everest Base Camp Trek, this route offers greater variety, fewer crowds on the Gokyo side, and a more adventurous journey through the heart of the Khumbu region. It is an ideal Everest Trek Nepal experience for trekkers seeking breathtaking scenery, rich Sherpa culture, and an unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

Trip Highlights

Spot Himalayan Thar, monal, musk deer, and mountain birds
Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and more
Explore Sherpa villages like Namche, Dingboche, and Gokyo
Experience authentic Sherpa culture and hospitality
Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery
Walk alongside the Khumbu and Ngozumpa Glaciers
Trek through the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park
Enjoy a scenic mountain flight to Lukla
Explore the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes
Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic Himalayan views
Watch a spectacular sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m)
Cross the thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420m)
Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Hotel Check-in and Trek Briefing

Welcome to Nepal, gateway to the Himalayas. Our representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and then drive you to your hotel. Upon arrival, guests stay in Kathmandu's most popular tourist area, Thamel; to relax or indulge in some shopping on the busy streets. Your trekking guide will be available in the evening to give you a detailed trek briefing and final equipment check. This is a good chance to ask questions and get ready for your upcoming trip. You can also go to the nearby markets, cafe or cultural sight before moving on to a welcome dinner and spending an overnight night in Kathmandu based on your arrival time.

Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Travel Distance: 6 to 8 kilometers
Travel Hours: 30 to 45 minutes
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Meal Included: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,651meters)

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters)

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche and Optional hike to the Everest View Hotel to adjust to altitude

Day 5: Trek to Tengboche (3,860 meters)

Day 6: Trek to Dingboche (4,350 meters)

Day 7: Acclimatization in Dingboche and Day Hike to the Nangkartshang Peak for Better Views

Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp

Day 9: Lobuche to EBC and Back to Gorak Shep (5,164m) and Visit the Base Camp and View the Khumbu Icefall

Day 10: Kala Patthar and Trek to Dzonglha

Day 11: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 meters) to Thagnak

Day 12: Trek to Gokyo

Day 13: Gokyo Ri Hike and Trek to Dhole

Day 14: Trek to Namche Bazaar

Day 15: Trek to Lukla from Namche Bazaar

Day 16: Fly to Kathmandu from Lukla

Inclusion / Exclusion

Inclusion

Pick-up and drop-off at the airport from and to your private vehicle
Hotel accommodation for two nights in Kathmandu with breakfast
Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with your private vehicle
Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the whole trekking period
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Round flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu, transfer to airport, and airport tax
Experienced government licensed English-speaking trekking guide whose salary, food, accommodation, transport, and insurance will be included
Strong and experience porter (One porter will share between two trekkers) whose salary, food, accommodation, and insurance will be included
Basic medical kit to comprehensive first aid kit carried by the guide
Assistance with emergency helicopter evacuation (Helicopter evacuation cost will be covered by traveler insurance policy)
Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and trekking pole will be provided during the trek (All the items should be returned after the trek)
Government taxes and service charges
Oxygen saturation monitoring every day to track altitude acclimatization and symptoms of AMS

Exclusion

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Nepal visa processing cost (issuable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
International flight ticket to and from Nepal
Travel insurance and high altitude trekking insurance
Expenses of personal nature like laundry, internet, phone calls, and shopping
Any beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks, bottled water, and any additional snacks to be bought while trekking
Extra desserts and foods like cake, chocolates, pie, and pudding
Charges for hot shower and device charging facilities in teahouse lodges
Monument entrance fees in Kathmandu for sightseeing (around USD 30 per head)
Tips for guide, porter, and driver
Overhead baggage cost for Lukla air tickets for excess luggage beyond the baggage limit of the airline (10 kg checked and 5 kg hand carry)

Check List

It is crucial to have the right clothing and equipment for your trekking tour in the Everest region to ensure your comfort and safety during the trek. This trek takes you up to an altitude of more than 5,500 meters and involves crossing the Cho La Pass which makes it quite challenging. It is suggested to pack only the things you really need during the trip.

General Equipment

All-season sleeping bag
Down jacket
Duffel bag
Waterproof and windproof outer jacket
Daypack (25-35 Liters)
Backpack rain cover
Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder

Protection for Head, Face & Eyes

Warmer hat or beanie that covers the ears
Sun hat or cap
UV protection sunglasses
Neck gaiter or buff
Sunscreen (SPF 35-60)
Lip balm with SPF
Headlamp with extra batteries

Protection for Hands

Lightweight trekking gloves
Warmer fleece or wool gloves
Waterproof and windproof outer gloves for cold conditions

Clothing for Upper Body

Wicking long-sleeve trekking shirts
Thermal base layers
Fleece or wool jacket
Down jacket for insulation
Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
Sports bras (for women)

Clothing for Lower Body

Thermal leggings or pants
Trekking pants
Waterproof and windproof shell pants
Warm fleece pants
Casual pants for evening use

Footwear

Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
4-5 pairs of warm trekking socks
Socks liners
Lightweight sneakers

First Aid & Personal Medication

Personal prescribed medications
Band-aids
Blister care kit
Pain killers
Diamox (for altitude sickness if recommended by your physician)
Antiseptic ointment
Water purification tablets
Personal first aid supplies

Personal Belongings & Toiletries

Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Biodegradable soap
Towel
Toilet Paper
Baby Wipes
Sanitizer
Nail Clipper
Moisturizer

Important Papers

Passport copy
Four passport size photos
Insurance documents
Flight papers and copies of all important documents
Permits for trekking (provided by the company)

Electronic Accessories

Power Bank
Cell phone and charger
Camera with charger
Extra memory card
Extra batteries

Other Things

Walking poles
Energy Bars
Travelling Pillow
Notebook and Pen
Playing Cards/Books
Music Player

Hydration & Water

Re-usable water bottle
Water purifying tablets/pack
Electrolyte Pack

Trip FAQs

What level of difficulty is the Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Trek?

The Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Trek is considered difficult because of its elevation, trekking days, and the pass at an altitude of 5,420 meters. Trekking enthusiasts must have a good physical condition and be used to walking for 5 to 8 hours on mountainous terrain.
How many days do you need for the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek?

It takes 15 to 18 days to finish the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek. The 16-day itinerary is one of the most favored itineraries as it covers Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Lakes; and also provides appropriate acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
Is Cho La Pass dangerous to cross?

It can be done safely during the major trekking seasons because the weather is always favorable at that time. But crossing it may not be easy due to the presence of snow and ice on the pass. It can be done safely by trekking early and having a good guide.
What is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek?

Spring season (March to May) and autumn season (September to November) are the best time for the trip. These months offer a clear view of the mountain range, moderate temperature, and favorable weather conditions. Crossing Cho La Pass becomes more convenient during this time than in winter or monsoon season.
Do I need previous trekking experience for Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass?

Having prior experience with trekking is an added advantage but is not essential. There have been many new trekkers who have completed the journey successfully; despite having no prior experience with trekking.
What permits are required for the Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trek?

The trekkers need to have two permits for the trek, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. The permits are checked at various locations on the trail and are generally obtained through trekking agencies before starting the trek.
Which is better Everest Base Camp Trek or Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass?

The regular trek to Everest Base Camp is ideal for trekkers who want an easier trek. The Everest Base Camp – Cho La Pass Trek gives an adventurous experience, as it covers the Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and the thrilling passage of Cho La Pass.