Explore the Himalayas

Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek-16 days

Bring your dream into Reality

Description

The Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is one of the most complete and rewarding trekking adventures in Nepal’s Everest region, combining breathtaking natural beauty, high-altitude challenge, and rich Sherpa culture into a single unforgettable journey. This 16-day trek takes you through the serene Gokyo Valley, across the dramatic Cho La Pass (5,420m), and into the heart of the Everest region, offering panoramic views of four 8,000-meter peaks—Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp route, this trek explores quieter trails, turquoise glacial lakes, massive glaciers, and remote alpine landscapes that showcase the Himalayas at their finest.

Designed with safety and acclimatization in mind, the itinerary includes strategic rest days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo, ensuring a comfortable ascent and a successful high-pass crossing. Highlights include the spectacular sunrise climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), a walk alongside the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, and the thrilling Cho La Pass crossing that links the Gokyo and Khumbu valleys. For those seeking the ultimate Everest experience, the trek also offers an optional visit to Everest Base Camp and a sunrise ascent of Kala Patthar, providing the closest and most iconic views of Mount Everest.

Beyond its natural grandeur, the Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is a deeply cultural journey through traditional Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and sacred Himalayan landscapes within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trekkers stay in comfortable local teahouses, enjoy freshly prepared meals, and travel with experienced guides who ensure safety, insight, and meaningful local interaction throughout the trek. Ideal for adventurous trekkers with good fitness levels, this journey offers a perfect balance of challenge, comfort, solitude, and world-class mountain scenery—making it one of the finest trekking experiences in the Himalayas.

Day 1: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m) – Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Flight: 30–35 minutes
Trek: 3–4 hours

Your adventure begins with a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the world’s most thrilling airports. After meeting your trekking crew, start an easy downhill walk along the Dudh Koshi River. Pass through traditional Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and suspension bridges before reaching Phakding for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Trek: 6–7 hours

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several iconic suspension bridges including the Hillary Suspension Bridge. Enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and begin a steady uphill climb. Catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest before arriving at the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar.

Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

To adjust to altitude, enjoy a rest and acclimatization day. Optional hikes include:

·        Everest View Hotel

·        Khumjung Village

·        Sherpa Culture Museum

Spend the afternoon exploring cafés, gear shops, and local bakeries.

Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4,200m)

Trek: 5–6 hours

Leave the busy Everest Base Camp trail and enter the quieter Gokyo Valley. The route passes through rhododendron forests with stunning views of Thamserku, Kangtega, and Cho Oyu. Overnight at Dole.

Day 5: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)

Trek: 4–5 hours

The trail gradually ascends above the tree line, offering wide valley views and dramatic mountain scenery. Machhermo is known for its open landscape and serves as an important acclimatization stop.

Day 6: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)

Trek: 4–5 hours

Walk alongside the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier. You’ll pass the first and second Gokyo Lakes before reaching the main Gokyo Lake (Dudh Pokhari). The turquoise waters set against Cho Oyu create a breathtaking scene.

Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – Explore Gokyo Valley

Hike: 3–4 hours

Early morning climb to Gokyo Ri for one of the finest panoramic views in the Himalayas. Witness Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu in a single frame. Spend the afternoon exploring the sacred Gokyo Lakes.

Day 8: Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak (4,700m)

Trek: 4–5 hours

Cross the rugged terrain near the Ngozumpa Glacier. Visit the upper lakes including Thonak Tsho and enjoy the peaceful, remote atmosphere of the high Himalayas.

Day 9: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) – Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)

Trek: 7–8 hours

The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Ascend early to cross the glacier-covered Cho La Pass. Depending on conditions, crampons may be required. Descend carefully to Dzongla with spectacular views throughout.

Day 10: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m)

Trek: 4–5 hours

A scenic walk through alpine landscapes with views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Pumori. Rejoin the Everest Base Camp trail at Lobuche.

Day 11: Optional Everest Base Camp Visit (5,364m) via Gorak Shep

Trek: 7–8 hours

Trek along the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep, then continue to Everest Base Camp. Stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.

Day 12: Kala Patthar (5,545m) Sunrise – Trek to Pheriche (4,240m)

Trek: 7–8 hours

Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for the closest view of Mount Everest. Descend gradually to Pheriche, enjoying easier breathing as altitude decreases.

Day 13: Trek from Pheriche to Tengboche (3,860m)

Trek: 5–6 hours

Descend through alpine meadows and cross rivers before climbing to Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery and witness evening prayers with Ama Dablam in the background.

Day 14: Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar

Trek: 5–6 hours

Retrace your steps through forests and villages, enjoying final views of Everest and surrounding peaks. Celebrate the successful trek in Namche Bazaar.

Day 15: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840m)

Trek: 6–7 hours

A long but rewarding final trekking day following river valleys and suspension bridges. Overnight in Lukla with a farewell dinner with your trekking crew.

Day 16: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your incredible Himalayan achievement.

What's Included