Everest Base Camp with Chola Pass via Gokyo Lake

Duration 18 days

Max-Altitude (5,367m/17,604 ft)

Transportation Flight/Private Transport

Grade Moderate

Accommodation 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Teahouses/Lodge during the trek

Meals Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek

Best Season Every week through out the year how ever (June - Aug) is not recommended.

Communication Available

Group Size Any

Everest Base Camp Trek, with Chola Pass Trek via Gokyo Lakes, takes us through the landmarks of the Khumbu region. The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is an amazing journey that offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning views of Gokyo and the famous Chola Pass. The Gokyo Lake, located at a high elevation, is a wild and beautiful place surrounded by the magnificent peaks of Cho Oyu (8153m) and Gyachung Kang (7922m). Trekking to Gokyo Lake in the Khumbu Everest region is like entering a bit of heaven. The trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with breathtaking views of Mount Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, and other peaks. The largest Tengboche Monastery in the Khumbu region is also an impressive sight to see. In 2015, Lonely Planet recommended the Khumbu region – Gokyo Everest Trek as one of the best trekking trails to explore.

Gokyo Valley Trek with Chola Pass and the Everest Base Camp is also an incredible trek. It crosses all the high valleys of Khumbu with additional time spent at the Gokyo Lake to explore the upper valley.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,428ft)

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Day 03: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,700ft): 3 – 4 hours trek

Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280 ft): 5 – 6 hours

Day 05: Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar: (3,440m/11,284ft)

Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga (3,680m/12,073ft): 5-6 hours

Day 07: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo (4,470m/ 14,663ft): 4-5 hours

Day 08: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,800 m/15,744 ft): 4-5 hours

Day 09: Explore Gokyo Valley

Day 10: Gokyo to Thagnak (4750 m/15,580 ft): 4 – 5 hours

Day 11: Thagnak to Cho La pass (5,367m/17,604 ft) to Dzongla (15, 939 ft): 7 – 8 hours

Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 2 – 3 hours

Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft): 6-7 hours

Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5368 m / 17611 ft) to Pherice (4,288m/14,070ft) 7-8 hours

Day 15: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar: 6 – 7 hours

Day 16: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft): 6 – 7 hours

Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu

Day 18: Departure Day

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival (1,350m/4,428ft)
Upon your Arrival in Kathmandu, you are welcomed by one of our representatives, and you are transferred to your hotel. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
A full day of Kathmandu sightseeing begins. Kathmandu is the cultural heart of Nepal and a popular destination for travelers. The city is a good blend of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Western influence cultures within the Valley. The cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley displays the realness and richness of art, culture, and crafts. Visit the Patan Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Stay overnight at the Hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding (2,651m/8,700ft): 40 minutes flight, 3 – 4hrs
An early morning Lukla flight for about 40 minutes. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the plane. Upon reaching Lukla, meet the rest of the crew members. Join them and commence the trek towards Phakding via Cheplung village. Overnight at Phakding.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 04: Phakding – Namche (3,438m/11,280 ft): 5 – 6 hrs
A trek to Namche begins and walks through the trail and reaches the Benkar Valley. Pass through Chumoa and Monjo villages after crossing the Dudh Koshi River. Cross a suspension bridge to reach Jorsale and continue walking until Namche. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 05: Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,284ft)
An acclimatization rest at Namche Bazaar to adjust to the thinning air. A hike to the Sagarmatha National Park which has diverse flora and fauna. A stunning view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and so on. Alternatively, hike to Khumjung village. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga (3,680m/12,073ft): 5-6 hrs
Climb uphill to Khumjung and downhill towards the valley taking to the Dud Koshi River. On the way, get a sight of Chorten, sacred Mt. Khumbila, and keep descending until Phortse Thanga. Overnight in Phortse Tanga.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 07: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo (4,470m/ 14,663ft): 4-5 hrs
Walk through the trails surrounded by rhododendron forest. Witness a waterfall on the way and reach Tongba village. Proceed further and ascend uphill traversing the villages of Dhole, Labarma, and Luza, and finally arrive at Machhermo. Overnight in Machhermo.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 08: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,800 m/15,744 ft): 4-5 hours
Walk through the trails of Phangkha and descend to the riverbank. Slowly climb over a steep moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier and traverse a bridge. Continue following the path and pass Gokyo Lake I, II, and III and arrive at Gokyo village with Mt. Cho Oyu in the background. Later, explore the third lake and overnight in Gokyo village.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 09: Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization
A rest day in the Gokyo Valley for acclimatization to adjust to the altitude. Some options are there to hike and explore. A hike to Gokyo Ri to enjoy the wonderful views of mountain vistas and the Gokyo valley. Else, a hike to the Gokyo 4^th Lake and 5^th Lake and get amusement with the serene beauty of the lake. Also, hike to Scoundrel’s Viewpoint from the edge of 5^th Lake. Witness some majestic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Makalu mountains, and the largest Ngozumpa Glacier. Trek back to Gokyo and spend the night.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 10: Gokyo to Thagnak (4750 m/15,580 ft): 4 – 5 hours
Walk traversing along the edge of the mountains and adore the surrounding scenery. Arrive at Thagnak and stay overnight.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 11: Thagnak via Cho La pass (5,367m/17,604 ft) to Dzongla (15, 939 ft): 7 – 8 hours
A long yet fruitful trek via Cho La Pass from Thagnak to Dzongla. Climb carefully towards Cho La Pass as the trail is steep and have to traverse through some glaciers. The sight of prayer flags reaching the top and spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Lobuche, and Baruntse are so close. Descend slowly and continue further to reach Dzongla. Overnight in Dzongla.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 2 – 3 hours
A short trek to Dzongla enjoying the surrounding beauty and walking on a grassy trail. Get a glimpse of Lobuche Peak en route. Arrive at Lobuche and take a rest and prepare for the next day’s long trek. Overnight in Lobuche.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft): 6-7 hours
A long trek commences from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp. Stop at Gorak Shep for lunch and continue further to the base camp. Passing through glacial moraines and following the guide’s instructions carefully reach the base camp. Enjoy the close-up views of Mt. Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and others from the Everest Base Camp. A dream to trek to the Everest Base Camp is finally accomplished. Spend some time there and return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) to Pheriche (4,288m/14,070ft) 7-8 hours
An early morning trek towards Kala Patthar around 3 am. Kala Patthar is the perfect destination to get an awesome sunrise view over Mt. Everest and panoramic mountain vistas. Upon reaching Kala Patthar, enjoy the close-up views of Lingtren, Khumbutse, Nuptse, Lhotse, Mt. Everest, and other mountains. Take some snaps and return to Gorak Shep. Have lunch over there and descend to Pheriche for an overnight stay.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 15: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar: 6 – 7 hours
Walk through the hillside surrounded by trees of juniper and rhododendron. Follow the Dudh Koshi Gorge after crossing a bridge and descending through the pine forest. Enjoy the views of Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku mountains and reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 16: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft): 6 – 7 hours
Walk on a steep downward trail and traverse a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. Arrive at Lukla and spend last night in the lap of mountains. Take complete rest and enjoy the night by celebrating and eating food and drinks. Overnight in Lukla.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 17: Lukla – Kathmandu 1400 m
An early morning flight to Kathmandu after accomplishing the long trek. Rest and enjoy the day completely in Kathmandu. Relax at a hotel and later join us for a cultural dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Included meals: Breakfast

Day 18: Departure Day
Our driver transfers you to the airport for final departure to connect your international flight. Have a safe journey.
Included meals: Breakfast

Note: To avoid the risk of missing your flight back home we always suggest you have 2 to 3 days extra at the end of your trip because the flight from Kathmandu -Lukla -Kathmandu airport is sometimes delayed or canceled due to bad weather conditions.

If the flight to Lukla is canceled for more than 3 days, then in that case we will possibly change the itinerary for something equally better alternative trek. If you are not interested in the alternative trip and would rather wait for your original preferred trip, you are welcome to wait in Kathmandu for as many days as it takes to get a flight to Lukla. We also recommend you do travel Insurance that covers Helicopter rides or flight delay/cancellation issues.

What’s Included

Airport pickups and drops by private vehicle
3- Star category hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
Teahouse/Lodge accommodation including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
Farewell dinner at the end of the trip
Domestic flights (Kathmandu- Lukla -Kathmandu)
Sightseeing in Kathmandu (4 – 6 hr)
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and, accommodation
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
All government and local taxes

What’s Excluded

Nepalese visa fee
Excess baggage charge(s)
Tour Guide and Entrance Fees for Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
International flights
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, Bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, Tea, Coffee, Alcoholic drinks, hot and Cold drinks, WiFi, hot shower, etc.)
Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)

The following gives you a general idea of the personal items that you need to bring for the trek. The personal items are of individual interest and choice. The most important fact that one should keep in mind is that one should have enough clothes to tackle the cold weather in the Himalayas.

Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes

Sun hat (We provide you a complimentary sunhat)
Wool or synthetic hat that covers the ears
Sunglasses with UV protection
Headlamp
Neck warmer

Hand

Liner gloves
Heavier shell gloves

Core Body

T-shirts (2)
Lightweight expedition thermal tops
Fleece jacket or pullover
Water/windproof shell jacket (Preferably breathable fabric)
Synthetic sports bras (for women)

Lower Body – Legs

Lightweight expedition thermal bottoms
Nylon hiking shorts
Soft shell and hard shell trekking pants
Water/windproof trousers
Casual pants

Feet

Liner socks
Heavyweight socks
Waterproof hiking/trekking boots
Light shoes/sneakers
Gaiters (For monsoon and winter)

Other essential important items

Passport and extra passport photos (2 copies)
Airline tickets (Please make a copy and leave one at our office in KTM just in case you need to change the date of yours)
Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
Water bottle/bladder
Water purification Iodine tablets
Toiletries (Include toilet paper, wet wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap)

Medicines and First Aid Kit

Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude-related headaches
Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea
Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness
Anti-infection ointments
Band-aids
Lip balm (At least SPF 20)
Sunscreen (SPF 40)

Optional

Adjustable trekking poles
Favorite snacks (No more than 2 pounds)
Paperback books, cards, mp3 player.
Binoculars
Backup, Cameras (Memory cards, chargers, and batteries)
Pee bottle for man and pee funnel for woman

Note: This equipment list is only a guide. You need to bring the listed items, however, you can choose from your preferred brands using your expertise. Plus, you can shop the trekking equipment and clothing at a reasonable price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu.

1. Will somebody come to pick me up?
A representative from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure will pick you up from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu .

2. What sort of accommodation can I expect in trekking?
Normal Teahouses/lodges will be provided along the trekking routes in the mountains. The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms. At times when possible, dining will be around a bonfire. In tea houses, food will be prepared in the kitchen which you should not enter without permission. somewhere until Dingboche, you will have an attached toilet and bathroom. But in two locations Lobuche and Gorakshep, you will have to use a common toilet and bathroom. (depend on the Season)

3. Is it possible to swap my accommodation from a mountain guesthouse to a hotel in Kathmandu?
Substituting the accommodation or swapping from the mountain guest house to Kathmandu is not possible. We only provide 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu included in the package. In case of flight cancellation or early arrival to Kathmandu due to any sickness in the mountain or any of your reason or due to bad weather and you are unable to continue the trek, you will need an extra night accommodation/s in Kathmandu. We can make these arrangements for a supplemental charge.

4. Is it possible to reserve a trip now and pay a deposit later or do I Have to pay a deposit at booking/reservation?
Yes! The trip will be confirmed only when we receive the completed final booking form and a 30% deposit payment. You can pay the balance of the money when you arrive in Kathmandu.

5. Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms for the trip?
During the trek, we will try our best but normally the lodges have twin-sharing and dormitory-styled rooms instead of a single room.

6. Is this a guaranteed departure even if I am alone starting in the requested trip?

Yes, all our trips are guaranteed to run. We never cancel the trip due to not having enough participants, we can arrange the trip for one person as well.

7. When I pay the remainder of the money on arrival in Kathmandu, how do you take that money? US cash or credit card?
You can clear the remainder of the money upon your arrival in Kathmandu or even before you arrive in Kathmandu. You can use USD, Euro, Pound, Canadian Dollar, Swiss franc in cash, Master, or Visa cards for the payment options. There will be a 4% bank levy when paying by credit card.

8. What sort of food can I expect in trekking?
Most teahouses (lodges) in Everest Base Camp trails cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, daal Bhat (rice and lentils), bread, soup, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season), and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. In many larger villages, you may find some meat items on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps. Each day dinner and breakfast will be at a lodge you’ll stay at while lunch will be taken on the way to the destination

9. Is the food in the mountain prepared to international standards in terms of safety?
YES, the food is very safe during the trekking but we recommend you to eat vegetarian and local food. Please follow the suggestion of our guide on the trek.

10. Is water provided and is there still water available at higher altitudes? Is it filtered/boiled? Readily available?
Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and tea houses. You can buy bottled water at the cost of USD 2 at lower elevations to USD 4 to higher elevations per littler. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

11. What is the alternative option if my flight to and from Lukla is canceled or delayed?
Sometimes, flights (to and from Lukla) may be canceled due to mountain weather conditions or technical issues. In such a case, Himalaya Sanctuary Adventure can help you charter a helicopter to ensure you are on schedule for your trek or international flight. The helicopter can fly if the visibility is 1500m, while the twin otter and Dornier can fly if the visibility is 5000m, as per Nepal’s Civil Aviation rules. If the weather is extreme and the visibility is lesser than 1,500m helicopters are also not operated for the flights. In such cases, we will reschedule your flight for the next day providing you with alternative trek options.

12. How much should I pay for the Heli charter?

The cost of the helicopter is payable directly to our Kathmandu office if this service is utilized. US cash or credit cards (Visa Cards, Master Cards only) are accepted. You will be given a receipt upon payment so that you may claim the amount from your travel insurance. The extra charges incurred are approximately $2,500 to USD 3,000 per helicopter (minimum USD 500 to maximum USD 3,000 per person) would apply to you for the helicopter charter. Usually, the helicopter takes only 3 to 5 passengers at a time. Therefore whatever the cost of a helicopter is, the price is divided among the group members. Any card payment requires a 4% bank fee while doing the transaction, which is taken by the bank itself. (Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure doesn’t own any of those 4% amounts)

13. What is the best season for this trekking?

Our trekking season extends from mid-September to May. From early September the monsoonal rains decrease. By the end of September through to December, the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, and cold nights. February, March, April, May, October, November, and December is the best time to do Everest base camp deluxe trek

14. What sort of weather conditions and temperatures will be in Trekking?

Every trekking trip up the mighty Mt. Everest presents its own amazing, unforgettable moments that forever live on in the hearts and minds of those brave enough to make the climb. One of the most unpredictable elements of the Everest region is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns, and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation. Here are some weather basics to help ensure that you come to the Himalayas as well-equipped and prepared to face anything.

Spring – March / April / May / June Spring happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. During springtime, the average temperature is 17 degrees C with a maximum of 25 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

July / August Through Mid- September is Monsoon Season This season is not recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positives to trekking during the monsoon months, however. The excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. The maximum temperature during the monsoon season averages 25 degrees C during sunny days with a minimum of -15 degrees C in the morning and night at areas above 4000 meters. The average temperature tends to hover around a comfortable 18 degrees C.

Autumn – End of September / October / November Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle. The average temperature during the fall is 15 degrees C with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -10 degrees C in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude. Regardless of the time of year, trekkers should always plan accordingly and bring clothing for both cooler and warmer temps. Layering is always recommended, as are pants that can double as shorts.

15. Can I obtain a visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport?
YES, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, a Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.

16. What if I am very sick in the mountain?

Our guides are 24 hours available for services during the trek. They are trained to use the first aid kit and have the knowledge to use an Oxy meter. They are very much aware that the higher the altitude the oxygen level gets lesser so to get updated on the oxygen level of our client and to know whether they are fit enough or need extra precautions to continue. During the time of emergency, our guides are alert and keep updated with the head office in Kathmandu which is available 24 /7 to arrange from horse to mules or helicopters in the most needed cases especially when the client is seriously sick in the mountain and needed to be hospitalized.

17. What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory in the Himalayas, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio, and tetanus. We also recommend: · A dental check-up before traveling. · That you know your blood group in case of emergency.

18. What is your cancellation policy?

A cancellation notice is required a minimum of 20 days before trip departure. If the reason is valid the trip shall then be termed as canceled and the cancellation charge of 30% of the trip amount would be deducted from the advance paid. If you do not cancel your trip before 20 days due to whatsoever reasons, you must be aware that the trip you’ve already bought is completely non-refundable as per our terms and conditions. If your trip is cut short due to weather/illness/personal reasons, there is no refund for accommodations unused.

Where do we go to the toilet along the trail?

Wherever possible we utilize the toilet facilities provided by the tea houses/lodges on the trail. However, in case of emergency trekkers are recommended to find a private, scenic spot!

What are the Toilet facilities in the tea house/guesthouse?

Most of the tea houses do have western-style flushing toilets however tea houses at higher elevations you could find the squat toilets made of either a ceramic basin on the ground or a few planks precariously positioned over a hole in the ground which is always outside.

Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms for the trip? If so how much extra will this cost?

Normally the lodges have twin-sharing and dormitory-styled rooms. The lodges will provide a private room for one person when available.

In Kathmandu, USD 45 Per Room per Night would be added as a single supplement fee. The single supplements are always guaranteed in Kathmandu but not in the mountains especially during the peak time.