The EBC Cho La Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous and scenic trekking routes in the Everest region, offering a perfect blend of high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and world-renowned destinations like Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Valley. This 18-day trek takes you deep into the heart of the Khumbu region, where you’ll witness dramatic landscapes, towering Himalayan peaks, and traditional Sherpa villages nestled amidst pristine alpine surroundings. It’s a journey that not only challenges you physically but also rewards you with breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
What sets this trek apart is the opportunity to cross the high-altitude Cho La Pass (5,420m), linking two of the most iconic routes in the Everest region—the Everest Base Camp trail and the Gokyo Lake circuit. Along the way, you’ll acclimatize in scenic villages like Namche Bazaar and Machhermo, climb to viewpoints such as Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, and experience the spiritual and natural essence of the Himalayas. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or an adventurer seeking a challenging and scenic route, the EBC Cho La Pass Trek delivers a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience.
The EBC Cho La Pass Trek begins with an exciting mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a scenic trek through the lush Dudh Koshi Valley to Phakding and Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trading hub of the Khumbu region. After proper acclimatization and exploration around Namche, the trail diverts toward the remote and peaceful Gokyo Valley. Trekkers pass through Dhole and Machhermo, gradually gaining altitude before reaching the stunning Gokyo Lakes. A climb to Gokyo Ri (5,350m) offers jaw-dropping views of four 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The adventure intensifies as you cross the icy Cho La Pass (5,420m) to connect with the classic Everest Base Camp trail at Dzongla. From here, the route continues to Lobuche and Gorakshep, the final outpost before reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m). After exploring the base of the world’s tallest peak, a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) provides the best close-up view of Everest. The descent follows a more direct route through Pheriche and Namche, ultimately returning to Lukla for a flight back to Kathmandu. This circuit-style trek offers a complete Everest experience with diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and high-altitude adventure.
If you’re seeking different ways to explore the majestic Everest region, here are some rewarding alternatives to the EBC Cho La Pass Trek:
Each trek offers a unique perspective of the Everest region, catering to different fitness levels, interests, and timeframes.
These notes ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-prepared experience while undertaking the EBC Cho La Pass Trek.
If you need any further information, please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone/WhatsApp at +977-9851013072.
Q: How difficult is the EBC Cho La Pass Trek?
A: The EBC Cho La Pass Trek is considered moderate to challenging. The terrain involves high-altitude trekking, glacier crossings, and steep climbs—especially over Cho La Pass (5,420m). Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.
Q: What is the best time to do the EBC Cho La Pass Trek?
A: The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, and mountain views are at their best. Avoid monsoon season and winter unless you’re highly experienced and well-equipped.
Q: Is prior trekking experience necessary?
A: While not mandatory, previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly beneficial due to the demanding nature of the Cho La Pass crossing and elevations above 5,000 meters.
Q: Do I need travel insurance for this trek?
A: Yes, comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (above 5,000m) and emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory for this trek.
Q: Are acclimatization days included in the itinerary?
A: Yes, the trek includes essential acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Machhermo to help prevent altitude sickness.
Q: What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
A: You will stay in tea houses or local lodges during the trek. They offer basic but comfortable rooms, typically on a twin-sharing basis. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a 3-star hotel with breakfast included.
Q: What permits are required for the trek?
A: You’ll need a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are included in most organized trekking packages.
Q: What kind of food is available during the trek?
A: Meals provided during the trek are on a full board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menus usually offer Nepali dishes, pasta, rice, soups, eggs, and Tibetan bread. Vegetarian options are available.
Q: How are the guides and porters arranged?
A: An experienced English-speaking guide and one porter for every two trekkers will accompany you. Both guide and porter expenses, including insurance, are included in the package.
Q: Is there internet or charging available on the trail?
A: Yes, Wi-Fi and charging are available in most tea houses for an extra fee. However, connectivity may be limited or slow in high-altitude areas like Gokyo, Dzongla, and Gorakshep.
All foreign nationals (except Indian citizens) require a visa to enter Nepal. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu or at land border crossings. To get a visa on arrival, travelers must carry a valid passport with at least six months of validity and one passport-sized photo. The cost for a 15-day visa is USD 30, 30-day visa is USD 50, and 90-day visa is USD 125 (subject to change). You can also apply in advance through a Nepalese embassy or consulate or via the online visa application system. Ensure you carry cash (preferably USD) for visa fees and fill out the arrival form in advance to avoid delays.
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for the EBC Cho La Pass Trek. Your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking (above 5,500 meters) and emergency evacuation by helicopter, which may be necessary in case of acute altitude sickness, injuries, or sudden illness. The policy should also include coverage for trip cancellations, delays, loss of baggage, and medical expenses. Make sure to carry a copy of your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers with you during the trek.
The EBC Cho La Pass Trek is a demanding high-altitude trek requiring good physical fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for daily hikes of 5–8 hours, steep ascents, glacier crossings, and long descents. Cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina are crucial. While no technical climbing skills are needed, regular training such as hiking, cycling, or gym workouts at least 6–8 weeks before the trek is highly recommended. Those with pre-existing medical conditions should consult a doctor before undertaking the trek.
Weather in the Everest region is highly variable, especially at high altitudes. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best trekking seasons, offering stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. Winter (December to February) brings cold conditions and possible snow, especially at Cho La Pass, making the trail more challenging. Summer/monsoon (June to August) sees heavy rainfall and reduced visibility, increasing the risk of flight delays and leech encounters at lower altitudes. Always pack layers and waterproof gear to adapt to sudden changes in weather.
Altitude is one of the most critical aspects of the EBC Cho La Pass Trek, with several days spent above 4,000 meters and key points like Gokyo Ri (5,350m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Kala Patthar (5,545m). Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. To mitigate risks, the itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Machhermo. Trekkers are advised to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and inform guides immediately if symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath occur. Diamox (a preventative altitude sickness medication) can be used under a doctor’s recommendation.
Transportation for the EBC Cho La Pass Trek typically includes private vehicle transfers in Kathmandu and domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla. The flight to Lukla is a highlight itself, offering spectacular mountain views. However, Lukla flights are highly dependent on weather conditions and may be delayed or rerouted to Ramechhap Airport during peak seasons. In Kathmandu, a private car or van is used for airport pickups, hotel transfers, and city sightseeing tours. All transportation arrangements are handled by Nepal Treks and Tour to ensure comfort and timely service.
Electricity is available in most tea houses along the trekking route, usually powered by hydroelectricity or solar panels. Charging of devices like phones, cameras, and power banks is possible at an extra cost—typically NPR 200–500 per hour, especially at higher altitudes. Charging facilities are more reliable in lower villages like Namche Bazaar and Machhermo, but may be limited or unavailable in remote places like Dzongla or Gorakshep. It’s recommended to bring extra batteries or a solar charger for backup, and keep devices warm to preserve battery life in cold conditions.
Trekking during local festivals can add a cultural dimension to your journey. Major festivals include Dashain (Sept–Oct), Tihar (Oct–Nov), and Losar, the Sherpa and Tibetan New Year, which usually falls in February. These events feature celebrations, rituals, and vibrant decorations in villages along the trail. Note that some services may be limited during national holidays. It’s best to plan your trek in coordination with these dates if you want to witness local culture but avoid any logistical disruptions.
Meals during the trek are served in tea houses and lodges along the route, with menus offering a variety of local and continental dishes. Common meals include Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, pancakes, and eggs. Breakfast typically includes porridge, toast, and tea or coffee. Vegetarian options are widely available. Meat is best avoided at higher elevations due to poor storage. Drinking water must be purified or boiled, and bottled water is available for purchase, though using a water purification system is more eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Due to the mountain weather’s unpredictability, flights to and from Lukla are frequently delayed or canceled. Trekking itineraries may also be affected by heavy snow, especially when crossing Cho La Pass, which can sometimes become impassable. It’s important to maintain flexibility in your travel plans, include buffer days, and purchase travel insurance that covers trip interruptions. We will do our best to manage itinerary changes and offer alternatives where possible.
The official language of Nepal is Nepali, but in the Everest region, many locals also speak Sherpa (Tibetan dialect). Your guide will speak English fluently, and basic English is widely understood in tourist areas and lodges. Communication becomes more limited in remote villages, so having a guide ensures smooth interactions. Mobile networks (like NTC and Ncell) work in some areas such as Namche Bazaar and Lobuche, but coverage is inconsistent. Wi-Fi is available in many tea houses for a small fee, though connection speeds may vary significantly at higher altitudes.
A well-prepared gear list is essential for comfort and safety. Key items include:
To prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), follow these steps:
In the event of serious altitude sickness or injury, helicopter evacuation is available from key points like Gokyo, Lobuche, and Gorakshep. Your trekking guide will assist with coordination, and your travel insurance must cover evacuation. Carry your insurance documents and emergency contact info at all times.
Practice Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter, respect wildlife, and minimize your plastic use by carrying a refillable bottle. Support local teahouses and buy local products to contribute to the community’s economy. Nepal has banned single-use plastics in some trekking areas—be mindful and eco-conscious throughout the journey.
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Unforgettable EBC Cho La Pass Trek -
Apr 30, 2025Review by-RUPAS ROCKI recently completed the EBC Cho La Pass Trek with Nepal Treks and Tour, and I can confidently say it was one of the most rewarding and exhilarating experiences of my life! From the moment I booked the trek, the team at Nepal Treks and Tour was incredibly professional, responsive, and helpful in organizing all the logistics, from permits to gear recommendations. The trek itself is not for the faint of heart, but the sense of accomplishment when you cross Cho La Pass and reach Everest Base Camp is unmatched. The views throughout the trek were absolutely stunning – we were treated to panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and many other peaks. The landscape is surreal, with glaciers, high-altitude meadows, and Sherpa villages along the way. The guides and porters were exceptional. Our guide, in particular, was very knowledgeable and kept us informed about the surroundings, culture, and history of the region. He also made sure everyone was trekking at a comfortable pace, managing the altitude well and ensuring we stayed hydrated and safe. You can tell that they have a deep respect for both the mountains and the people who live there. Accommodation along the route was as comfortable as you can expect in such remote areas, with the tea houses providing hot meals, warmth, and a sense of community. Even though it’s a challenging trek, Nepal Treks and Tour made the experience seamless by taking care of every detail. I highly recommend Nepal Treks and Tour if you’re considering this trek. Their professionalism, local knowledge, and attention to detail made this adventure smooth and unforgettable. Can’t wait to book my next trek with them!
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May 30, 2024Review by-AZMERY RAHMAN KHANEBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek is the adventurous trek into the Everest/ Khumbu region which combines the Everest base camp with the Gokyo valley and the high Chola pass at the elevation of 5420m. This trekking trail offers stunning views of many Himalayan giants like Mt. Everest (8848m.), Lhotse, Makalu, Amadablam, Kanchenjunga, Nuptse, Mt. Pumori and many more. The natural beauty, rich and unique culture of the Sherpa inhabitants, lush forest, walking over the snow, crossing high pass provides the heavenly pleasure to the visitors which will be the lifetime memory.