Gokyo, Chola-pass Trek 19 days

Trip overview

Gokyo, Chola-pass Trek 19-day 

The Gokyo-Chola-pass trek is a challenging but rewarding adventure across some of Nepal’s most stunning terrain. Trekking via the Khumbu Glacier, the Himalayas’ largest glacier, is just one of the highlights of this trek and adventure. This trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the incredible strength and beauty of nature. The hike also passes by the beautiful Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal’s Himalayas. This trek, you will view some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world and get the opportunity to traverse one of the Himalayas’ most challenging crossings, but the effort is well worth it. The best months to visit Gokyo Chola Pass via EBC Trekking are September through November and March through May. 

Gokyo – Chola Pass Trek Highlights

The Gokyo-Chola Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous and scenic trekking routes in the Everest region. It offers breathtaking landscapes, pristine glacial lakes, and a thrilling high-altitude pass crossing. Here are the key highlights:

Stunning Gokyo Valley & Lakes: Explore the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, the world’s highest freshwater lake system.Visit Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420 m): Cross the challenging Cho La Pass, a high-altitude pass covered in ice and snow. Experience a rugged, adventurous route between Gokyo and Everest Base Camp.

Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: Reach the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the closest you can get to Mount Everest. Climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for a breathtaking sunrise view of Everest and surrounding peaks. Diverse Landscapes & Sherpa Culture: Trek through picturesque villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and Dzongla. Experience the unique hospitality and culture of the Sherpas. Visit Tengboche Monastery, the most famous Buddhist monastery in the region. Ngozumpa Glacier & Dramatic Terrain: Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. Witness dramatic landscapes, including icy mountains, rocky ridges, and alpine meadows.

Flora and Fauna of Gokyo – Cho La Pass Trek

Subtropical & Temperate Forests (2,500 m – 3,500 m):  Rhododendron (national flower of Nepal, blooms in spring, turning forests red and pink) Pine, Oak, and Birch Trees Juniper and Hemlock Mosses and Ferns in shaded, moist areas

2. Alpine Region (3,500 m – 4,500 m)

Dwarf Rhododendrons (smaller shrubs adapted to cold), Blue Himalayan Poppies, Edelweiss (a rare white flower found in high-altitude regions) Juniper bushes (used by Sherpas in religious ceremonies)

3. Tundra & Glacier Zone (Above 4,500 m)

Sparse Vegetation: Only hardy grasses, lichens, and mosses survive. Glacial moraines: Mostly barren with occasional alpine flowers, Yak Pastures: Some high-altitude grasslands where yaks graze

The Gokyo-Cho La Pass Trek passes through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is home to diverse ecosystems. From lush forests at lower altitudes to alpine tundra and icy landscapes at higher elevations, this trek offers a rich variety of flora and fauna.

1. Mammals

Himalayan Tahr (a wild mountain goat found on rocky cliffs). Musk Deer (shy and mostly seen at dawn/dusk). Snow Leopard (rare and elusive, but lives in the high-altitude regions). Red Panda (lives in lower forests but rarely seen). Himalayan Marmot (large, furry rodents found near Gokyo Lakes). Blue Sheep (Bharal) (prey for snow leopards, seen on grassy slopes). Yaks (domesticated animals used for carrying loads and providing milk)

2. Birds

Himalayan Monal (Danphe):  (Nepal’s national bird, brightly colored) Snow Pigeon (common in rocky areas). Golden Eagle (soars high in search of prey). Himalayan Griffon Vulture (feeds on carcasses). Blood Pheasant (often seen in rhododendron forests)

3. Other Wildlife

Himalayan Wolf (extremely rare). Pika (small mountain rodent, looks like a rabbit). Tibetan Snowcock (commonly seen in high-altitude areas) The Gokyo-Cho La Pass-Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is one of the most scenic and adventurous trekking routes in the Everest region. It takes you through diverse landscapes, varying vegetation zones, and a range of atmospheric conditions. Here’s an overview:

Sagarmatha National Park

Sagarmatha National Park, located in the Solukhumbu District of Nepal, is one of the most spectacular protected areas in the Himalayas. Covering an area of 1,148 square kilometers, it is home to Mount Everest (Sagarmatha in Nepali), the world’s highest peak at 8,848.86 meters. Established in 1976 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, this national park is a globally recognized region of natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural significance.

Geography and Landscape

The park lies at an altitude range of 2,845 meters (Monjo) to 8,848.86 meters (Everest summit). It is characterized by rugged terrain, deep valleys, glaciers, and towering Himalayan peaks, including Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), and Thamserku (6,623 m). The Dudh Koshi River and its tributaries flow through the park, originating from glacial melt.

Sagarmatha National park : Flora and Fauna

Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the Everest region of Nepal and is home to diverse flora and fauna, adapted to its high-altitude environment.

Flora:

Lower altitudes (below 4,000m): Rhododendron, birch, juniper, and fir forests.Higher altitudes (above 4,000m): Alpine scrub, grasslands, and barren rocky terrain with minimal vegetation.

Fauna:

Mammals: Snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, red panda, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and Tibetan wolf. Birds: Himalayan monal (Nepal’s national bird), snow partridge, blood pheasant, and various species of eagles and vultures.

Sherpa Culture and Heritage

The park is home to the Sherpa people, renowned for their mountaineering skills. Famous Buddhist monasteries like Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of the Everest region. Festivals such as Mani Rimdu are celebrated annually with colorful ceremonies and mask dances.

Vegetation & Landscape

Sagarmatha National Park: Landscape and Vegetation
Some of Nepal’s most stunning scenery and a variety of vegetation zones may be found at Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Everest (Sagarmatha, 8,848.86m), the highest peak in the world, and many other tall mountains, deep valleys, glaciers, and alpine ecosystems are all part of this region, which is in the Khumbu.

Lower Region (Lukla to Namche, 2,800 m to 3,500 m)

Vegetation: dense rhododendron, pine, juniper, and fir forests. Oak trees are also common. Atmosphere: cool in the mornings and evenings, pleasant during the day. Oxygen levels are still comfortable.

Mid-Region (Namche to Gokyo & Dingboche, 3,500m to 4,800m)

Vegetation: gradual thinning of forests, replaced by alpine shrubs, dwarf rhododendrons, and juniper bushes. Atmosphere: Crisp, dry air with increasing cold, especially in the mornings and nights. The winds are stronger.

High Region (Gokyo, Cho La Pass & EBC, 4,800 m to 5,545 m)

Vegetation: Almost barren with moss, lichens, and some alpine grasses. Glacial mountains dominate the landscape. Atmosphere: harsh, dry, and cold. Strong winds, sub-zero temperatures at night, and lower oxygen levels.

Spring (March to May)—Best Season

Temperature: Daytime: 10°C to 20°C | Nighttime: -5°C to -10°C Vegetation: rhododendrons in bloom, lush greenery in lower areas. Atmosphere: stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Challenging

Temperature: Daytime: 15°C to 25°C | Nighttime: 0°C to -5°C Vegetation: Lush greenery in lower regions, but trails are muddy. Atmosphere: high humidity, cloudy skies, and frequent rainfall, increasing the risk of landslides in lower areas.

Autumn (September to November)—Best Season

Temperature: Daytime: 10°C to 18°C | Nighttime: -5°C to -15°C Vegetation: dry, golden brown shades with clear views. Atmosphere: Crisp, fresh air with excellent visibility. Stable conditions make it one of the best times to trek.Winter (December to February): Extreme Cold  Temperature: Daytime: 5°C to 10°C | Nighttime: -15°C to -25° Vegetation: snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and bare landscapes. Atmosphere: harsh, windy, and freezing conditions. High passes like Cho La are often closed due to heavy snowfall.

Food and Accommodation on the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

Accommodation: Accommodation along the trek consists of teahouses (lodges) run by local Sherpa families. These are basic but comfortable, offering:

Rooms: Simple twin-sharing rooms with beds, blankets, and pillows. In higher altitudes, it’s advisable to bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth.

Bathrooms: Lower elevations have attached bathrooms, while higher regions mainly have shared toilets. Hot showers are available for an extra charge. Electricity & Charging: Available in most lodges, but charging electronic devices costs extra. Some lodges use solar power. Wi-Fi: Available at major points like Namche Bazaar, Gokyo, and Gorak Shep but often slow and expensive.

Food Options

Teahouses provide a variety of meals, mainly Nepali and Tibetan dishes, along with some Western options. The most common choices include:

Breakfast:

Tibetan bread or chapati with honey/jam, Pancakes (plain, apple, chocolate),Porridge (oatmeal, muesli), Eggs (boiled, fried, scrambled, omelet),Tea, coffee, hot chocolate

Lunch & Dinner: Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles) – Unlimited refills and best for energy, Sherpa stew – A thick soup with vegetables, potatoes, and sometimes meat, Fried noodles or rice with vegetables or eggs, Momos (dumplings) – Either steamed or fried.Pasta, macaroni, or spaghetti with tomato sauce or cheese, Pizza (available in Namche, Gokyo, and a few other places),Yak steak (available in some lodges, but not common)

Snacks & Drinks:

Tea (black, milk, ginger, lemon, mint, green),Coffee (instant or brewed in Namche and Gokyo),Hot chocolate, Energy bars, chocolates, and biscuits (can be bought in lodges but expensive). Popcorn (sometimes available in higher lodges)

Special Considerations for Food & Accommodation

Vegetarian Meals: Recommended at higher altitudes to avoid food poisoning from poorly preserved meat. Water: Bottled water is expensive at higher altitudes. Carry a reusable bottle and use purification tablets or a SteriPen. Food Prices: Prices increase as you go higher due to transportation costs (porters/yaks carry supplies).

Crowds & Booking: In peak trekking seasons (spring & autumn), teahouses may be full. Booking in advance (especially in Gokyo and Lobuche) is a good idea.

Best Season to Trek

Spring (March-May): Best for blooming flowers and moderate weather. Autumn (September-November): Best for clear skies, great visibility, and stable conditions. For Cho La Pass, it’s highly recommended to avoid winter due to snow accumulation and summer due to slippery conditions.

Physical Fitness Level Required for Gokyo Chola Pass Trek

The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a challenging and strenuous trek that requires a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and mental resilience. It combines long trekking days, steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and the technical crossing of Cho La Pass (5,420m).

Fitness Requirements

Cardiovascular Endurance:  You will be trekking 5-8 hours daily at high altitude with reduced oxygen levels. Good cardio fitness helps in efficient oxygen utilization and prevents altitude sickness. Recommended Training: Running, cycling, swimming, stair climbing, or hiking with a backpack (3-4 times a week for at least 3 months before the trek). Strength & Stamina,  Leg strength is crucial for steep ascents and descents. Carrying a backpack (if without a porter) requires good core and upper body strength. Recommended Training: Squats, lunges, leg presses, deadlifts, and core exercises like planks and crunches.

Altitude Adaptation:  The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,545m (Kalapatthar) and 5,420m (Cho La Pass), where oxygen levels are significantly lower. Acclimatization days (at Namche and Gokyo) are necessary to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Recommended Training: If possible, trek at high altitudes before the trip, or use an altitude training mask to simulate conditions.

Technical Skills (for Cho La Pass)

The Cho La Pass crossing includes steep icy sections and rocky terrain. Trekking poles and crampons (when icy) help with stability. No mountaineering experience is required, but confidence in walking on rough and icy trails is helpful.

Mental Preparation: Expect harsh weather, long trekking hours, and basic facilities.Mental resilience helps in overcoming challenges and maintaining motivation.

Who Can Do This Trek?

Ideal for: Experienced trekkers who have completed moderate to difficult treks (e.g., Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley, or Everest Base Camp).  Physically active individuals who engage in regular endurance training (hiking, running, gym workouts). Those with good mental determination to handle challenging conditions.

Final Preparation Tips

Train at least 3-4 months before the trek. Do altitude hikes (if possible) to test endurance. Pack properly, including trekking poles, crampons  required), and proper layering. Acclimatize well and follow a slow and steady pace.

Popular Places 

Gokyo and Cho La Pass are among the most popular trekking destinations in the Everest region of Nepal. This route is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude adventure, and incredible views of the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Key Highlights of Gokyo & Cho La Pass Trek:

Gokyo Valley & Gokyo Lakes: A stunning valley featuring the turquoise blue Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater lake system in the world.

The view from Gokyo Ri (5,357m) offers one of the best panoramic views of Everest and its surrounding peaks.

Cho La Pass (5,420m) A challenging and adventurous high mountain pass that connects Gokyo Valley with the Everest Base Camp trail.: The pass involves glacier crossings and steep ascents, making it a thrilling experience for trekkers.

Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: After crossing Cho La Pass, trekkers join the Everest Base Camp (5,364m) route, one of the most iconic trekking destinations.

Kala Patthar (5,545m) provides the most spectacular close-up views of Mount Everest.

Ngozumpa Glacier: The longest glacier in Nepal, stretching from Cho Oyu down to the Gokyo Valley.The glacier crossing is a unique experience on this trek.

Sherpa Culture & Villages: Visit traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo, and Lobuche. Explore Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual hub of the region.

Conclusion: Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking

The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is an exhilarating journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude adventure, and rich Sherpa culture. This trek is ideal for those seeking both a challenging and rewarding experience in the Everest region of Nepal. With its stunning turquoise lakes, the dramatic Cho La Pass (5,420m), and the iconic views of Everest from Gokyo Ri and Kalapatthar, this trek is truly a bucket-list adventure.

From the tranquil beauty of Gokyo Valley to the thrilling crossing of Cho La Pass, and finally reaching the legendary Everest Base Camp, every step offers an unforgettable experience. This trek not only tests endurance but also rewards trekkers with some of the most spectacular Himalayan panoramas.

Whether you are an experienced trekker or an adventurer looking to challenge yourself, the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is a journey of a lifetime, blending nature, adventure, and cultural immersion in the heart of the Himalayas.

Gokyo Chola Pass Trekking Note

The Gokyo Chola Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous and scenic treks in the Everest region, combining the stunning Gokyo Lakes, the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m), and the classic Everest Base Camp trail. This trek offers breathtaking views of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants.

Key Highlights

Explore the pristine Gokyo Lakes (4,750m), the world’s highest freshwater lake system. Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Cross the Cho La Pass (5,420m), a challenging but rewarding high-altitude pass. Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the best close-up view of Everest. Experience the unique Sherpa culture, monasteries, and traditional villages. Walk through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to glaciers and moraines.

Side trips of Everest region trek

1. Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri Trek

2. Three Passes Trek (Kongma La, Cho La, Renjo La)2. Three Passes Trek (Kongma La, Cho La, Renjo La)

3. Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

4. Island Peak Climbing (6,189m)

5. Pikey Peak Trek (Lower Everest Region)

6. Hinku Valley and Mera Peak (6,476m)