Chola Pass Trek is one of the few adventures around the Himalayan region that takes you to high places with scenic valleys, where you will be absorbed in marvelling at the beauty of the country. This is one of the best adventures that fulfill your dreams.
The trek leads you through both beautiful corners of the high Khumbu valley with ever-present views of the famous Mt. Everest South Face, where marvellous scenery follows you on daily treks.
Gokyo Valley and its beautiful glacial lakes will be the first highlight of the adventure, where one can enjoy wonderful times enclosed within an array of giant peaks, as the walk takes you to high Gokyo-Ri Hill, facing a super panorama of the world’s four highest mountains that have never been seen in any other Himalayan areas.
From Gokyo, crossing the high Cho-la pass leads you to our main major goal and highlight at Everest Base Camp with a climb to the highest spot on Kalapatthar with amazing scenery of high peaks with Everest in the direction.
Starting our fabulous walks on reaching Lukla, a Sherpa town with a small airstrip where a flight from Kathmandu brings you to Lukla, as the route leads past many interesting Sherpa villages and into the lovely forest with a high climb to the famous Namche Bazaar.
At Namche Bazaar, with time to explore and witness the local Sherpas’ interesting Buddhist culture on rest days, an ideal spot with more days for acclimatisation, where the walk continues towards the high Gokyo valley on a quiet trail with grand views of mountain scenery.
Upon reaching Gokyo Valley, with its beautiful lakes, our real adventure begins, following a high trail to cross Cho La Pass and then embarking on pleasant high-altitude walks to reach our final highlight: Everest Base Camp.
At Everest base camp, where you will be beneath towering Mt. Everest within close reach of massive Khumbu Ice Fall and glaciers, our next adventure takes you to the highest point of the journey at Kalapatthar for a mind-blowing panorama of mountains with Everest at a mere close distance.
Enjoying fabulous and utmost moments on the highest places of Khumbu Valley, where the return walk leads to a long descent to Namche, and at Lukla for a short scenic flight back into the hustle and bustle of city life of Kathmandu to conclude our most remarkable adventure and experience on the Everest base camp crossing Cho-la pass trekking.
The Cho La Pass trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of the Khumbu valley. This trek itinerary is uniquely designed to showcase both the Gokyo and Everest side of the valley. From the moment you begin your journey, you will be treated to ever-present views of the world’s highest with, Mount Everest. The trip provides panoramic vistas of other magnificent mountains like Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, making it a must-do for any mountain lover.
The Chola Pass is the centrepiece of this adventurous Khumbu Valley trek. At an altitude of 5,420 meters, crossing this high pass is a challenging at rewarding experience. This traverse connects the pristine Gokyo Valley with the iconic Everest Base Camp trail, offering a thrilling alternative to the standard EBC trek.
The pass provides stunning views of Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in the Himalayas, and the surrounding peaks, making it to highlight of the Chola pass trek.
The Chola Pass trek is not just about mountains; It’s also a journey into the heart of shipback culture. The trail winds through the charming Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo, where you can witness their unique customs and traditions.
These villages are a testament to the resilient spirit of the Sherpa people, and their warmest hospitality will make your Khumbu valley trek even more memorable. Explore ancient monasteries, prayer wheels, and Mani stones that are an integral part of the vibrant Buddhist culture.
The Chola Pass Trek is a Photographer’s dream, with two of the most iconic viewpoints in the Khumbu Valley: Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Kalapatthar (5,550m). A pre-dawn hike to the Gokyo Ri offers a stunning sunrise view of the Gokyo Lakes and a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Similarly, the ascent of Kalapatthar rewards you with the most iconic and close-up views of the Mt. Everest, making it a classic viewpoint of any Everest trek.
The Chola Pass trek offers a dramatic change as you ascend through the Khumbu Valley. The journey begins in lush, green forests of rhododendron and pine, with the gentle sound of Dudh Koshiriver accompanying you. As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms into a barren, windswept alpine zone, with sparse vegetation and a rugged, majestic beauty. This transition from green to grey, from life as a raw and pristine wilderness, is a defining feature of the Chola Pass trek.
The Thukla Pass Memorial, located near the small village of Thukla in the Everest region of Nepal, honours the brave souls who lost their lives during the 1996 Everest disaster. This poignant memorial consists of a series of stone Cairns and plaques that are dedicated to the climbers who perished while attempting to summit Everest.
The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a reflective stop for travellers on the way to the Everest Base Camp. The memory will serve as a reminder of the risk associated with high altitude climbing and pays tribute to the spirit of adventure and camaraderie among climbers. Visitors often leave stones and personal mementoes on this side, expressing their respect and remembrance for those who have gone.
Gokyo Ri, also known as Gokyo Peak, is a mountain peak located in the Khumbu Region of the Nepal Himalayas. Elevation of 5357 metres, 17,575 feet. The peak is a popular trekking destination, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
From its summit, it is possible to see four of the world’s 8,000m peaks: Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The peak is situated on the West side of the Ngozumpa glaciers, the largest glacier in Nepal. The Gokyo lakes, a series of high-altitude freshwater lakes, are also in the area.
Tengboche is a picturesque village in the competition of Nepal, renowned as a significant cultural and spiritual hub. Its main highlight is the Tengboche monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery (Gompa) in the Khumbu. Situated at an altitude of 3867 metres, the village offers a stunning panoramic viewpoint of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and iconic Ama Dablam.
The monastery, first built in 1916 and twice rebuilt after a major earthquake and devastating fire, serves as a vital centre for the Sherpa community and a key stop for trekkers on the famous Everest Base Camp trail.
Tengboche is a picturesque village in the Khumbu region of Nepal, renowned as a significant cultural and spiritual hub. Its main highlight is the Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery (or gompa) in the Khumbu. Situated at an altitude of 3,867 meters, the village offers a stunning, panoramic viewpoint of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the iconic Ama Dablam.
The monastery, first built in 1916 and twice rebuilt after a major earthquake and a devastating fire, serves as a vital centre for the Sherpa community and a key stop for trekkers on the famous Everest. It is a place where trekkers can receive blessings for a safe journey and the daily prayer rituals of the resident monks.
The Khumbu Glacier is the World’s highest glacier situated in the Khumbu region of northeastern Nepal. It lies between Mount Everest and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge, with its elevation ranging from 4900 metres at its terminals to 7,600 metres at its source, near the western cirque.
The glacier is a crucial part of the famous trek to Everest Base Camp, which is located on its right side. Particularly notable and hazardous section of the glacier is the Khumbu Icefall, known for its towering ice formations and deep crevasses, which presents one of the most significant obstacles for Mountaineers on this standard South Col route to the Everest summit.
The flight to Lukla, the highlight in itself, is often described as one of the most thrilling and adventurous air journeys in the world. The small twin-engine aircraft takes off from Kathmandu or (more recently from Rammechhap during peak seasons) for a short scenic flight offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and Deep River valleys.
The true spectacle, however, is the landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport and its extremely short runway, nestled on and mountainside, steep gradient and a Cliff at one end. The landing requires immense skill and precision from the pilots. The flight is the fastest way to access the Everest region and marks the official beginning of the Epic trekking adventure.
An outline itinerary of the Chola Pass trek
Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, a member of our team will meet you and transfer you directly to your hotel. This first day is yours to unwind and acclimatise to the local time and atmosphere.
We highly recommend taking a stroll through the lively Thamel area. As the city’s tourist hub, Thamel is a sensory feast with its narrow streets packed with colourful shops, bustling restaurants, in a truly vibrant energy. The perfect introduction to the Nepali culture and a great place to pick up any last-minute trekking gear. You will feel the anticipation building for the incredible adventure that awaits you in the Himalayas.
Your Himalayan journey kicks off the moment you touch down at Kathmandu’s International Airport. After clearing customs, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from our team and escorted to your hotel. This initial day is left free for you to settle in and begin to observe the local culture at your own pace. We encourage you to head out and explore the famous Thamel area.
This area is an absolute where the sights, sounds, and smells of Nepal come alive. When did fruits mazelike alleys where you find everything from your traditional handicrafts and the intricate textiles to modern trekking equipment.
Take a moment to enjoy your meal at one of many cafes or restaurants offering a wide variety of Nepali and international cuisine. The vibrant neighbourhoods serve you the first taste of the country’s unique spirit, building excitement and anticipation for the breathtaking mountain expedition that lies ahead.
After a healthy breakfast, your second-in-command is dedicated to an immersive cultural experience. You will join our expert city guide for an exciting and informative sightseeing tour of Nepal’s most treasured historical and religious sites, all of which are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This tour is an incredible opportunity to delve into the rich history and cultural traditions of the Kathmandu valley.
Your guide will lead you through a journey of discovery, bringing to life the stories behind ancient temples, royal palaces, and sacred stupas. You might also visit the Swyambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers a panoramic view of the entire valley or the intricate Durbar Square with its fascinating architecture and royal history. It not only highlights the architectural marvels but also provides insight into the daily life, beliefs, and artistic heritage of the Nepali people.
The trip takes in a sequential order, you’ll start your trip after breakfast in the hotel, starting from Kathmandu Durbar Square, an ancient heritage site full of ancient architectural structures of Nepal, dominantly made from Shikhar style, also known as pinnacle Style.
The trip takes in a sequential order, you’ll start your trip after breakfast in the hotel, starting from Kathmandu Durbar Square, an ancient heritage site with structures dominantly made in Shikhara style, pinnacle. The Durbar Square is a place that will give vibes full of energy and make you feel as if the whole place has come to life. You can get to witness the ancient art and crafts of Nepal from historic times, along with the lifestyle of the people, which gives you a reflection of the ancient lifestyle of the people.
Following that, we’ll head towards our next destination, called Swambhunath, also famously known as the “Monkey Temple” is a famous Buddhist monastery is one of the world’s heritage sites visited by many travellers during their trip in Nepal. Known for its vibrant and calming, and serene environment, and mischievous monkeys and a sequence of prayer wheels is a must-visit place. You can also witness 360° panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
The next destination in our heritage tour series is the Bouddhanath, this too is also a world heritage site dedicated to the lord Buddha, with a similar serenity and environment to the Swyambhunath. This is another famous hub among international tourists due to the serenity and calming environment it provides, and the restaurants providing different cuisines of different backgrounds, one of them famously being the Tibetan cuisine. After completing the sightseeing of the vicinity, we’ll have lunch at one of the restaurants around and have some rest for a while to proceed to our next and last heritage site.
The Pashupatinath is the biggest temple of Hindus in the world, highly revered by Hindus from all around, as a majority of people from India and many other nations visit every year in millions of numbers.
Located beside the Bagamti river, known for its largest open cremation ground in the world, the practices might be a cultural shock to many outsiders. We’ll take our time to visit all the nooks of the temple and explore the surroundings. This place, too, is known for mischievous monkeys, so you might need to be extra cautious and also remember not to snap any pictures inside the vicinity of the temple, as it leads to your accessories being seized by the authorities.s
After the tour, you will have ample free time in the evening to prepare for your trip. This is the perfect opportunity to double-check your gear, purchase any last-minute essentials, or simply relax and mentally prepare for the thrilling mountain adventure that begins tomorrow. This day strikes the perfect balance between cultural exploration and practical preparation, ensuring you are both inspired and ready for the days ahead.
The permit and entry cost for tourists varies by nationality.
Chola Pass trek world heritage site entrance fees
Your incredible Himalayan adventure kicks off with an early morning drive to Rammechhap, giving you a look at Nepal’s beautiful countryside along the way.
Once you reach Mathali Airport in Ramechhap, you will board a small plane for a thrilling 15-minute flight to Lukla’s Tenzing, Hillary Airport. Prepare for a truly unforgettable landing on its famous short, sloped runway, an adventure in itself.
Keep in mind that flying from Ramechhap is the most common option during the busy trekking season, which runs from September to November and March to May. Outside of this month’s flight to Lukla typically departs directly from Kathmandu.
As soon as you land, it looks like the official gateway to the Everest region, your trip begins. You will start with a relaxed three to four-hour hike to Phakding, a charming village located right on the Dush Koshi River. The trail winds through stunning valleys past colourful prayer stones in a suspension bridge decorated with prayer flags, giving you a perfect first taste of the Khumbu valley’s natural beauty with Sherpa culture.
Today, your trip truly gains momentum as you make your way to the bustling hub of Khumbu Valley, Namche Bazaar. Starting from Phakding, the morning walk is a delightful experience following a pleasant trail that meanders through a lush forest of pine and rhododendron trees. As you walk, you will be treated to intermittent views of snow-capped peaks, as a stunning preview of the magnificent scenery to come.
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River upstream, passing several suspension bridges before reaching the official entrance to Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. This park, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, is a protected area of immense natural beauty and ecological importance. After the brief stop for permit checks, you will cross the iconic high suspension bridge, a moment of exhilarating excitement for many travellers, and begin the final steep ascent.
This demanding climb leads you to the Namche Bazaar, a vibrant amphitheatre-shaped village perched high on the hillside. Often called the “Sherpa capital”, Namche is a lively town that serves as a central hub for travellers and locals alike. It is the last place on the trek with a wide range of modern amenities, including ATM’s, banks, cyber cafes, bakeries, and an area of shops selling everything from trekking gear to traditional crafts.
As you settle in, you’ll be rewarded with your first clear view of some of the region’s stunning peaks, including the formidable Kwangde.
High hill of Namche offers stunning views of Amadablam, Tharmaserku, Kantega, Kwangde, Khumbila with Mt. Everest and Lhotse towards the North.
After an impressive morning, head back to the lodge for lunch with the afternoon free to relax and catch up with the dairy and browse around the street of Namche, where once a week Saturday market/bazaar takes place.
After a well-deserved rest in the town of Namche Bazaar, your trip continues on a pleasant, wide trail. Today’s journey is truly a feast for the eyes, offering you some of the most spectacular vistas of the trip. As you walk, you will be treated to magnificent views of the iconic peaks like Mount Everest and Lhotse and the stunning pyramidal peak of Ama Dablam, all standing majestically on the horizon.
The route gradually separates from the main Everest Base Camp trail, leading you towards the less-traveled path to Gokyo Valley. You’ll ascend to the Mong Hill, a scenic ridge that offers panoramic views of the entire valley. From here, the trail descends steeply to Phortse Tenga, a small settlement nestled beside the Dudh Koshi river and surrounded by dense forest. After a brief rest, you’ll begin the steady climb towards your destination for the day.
The final ascent to Dole is a gradual but continuous climb. Dole is a small collection of lodges and is the first village you will encounter on the way to the Gokyo lakes. This marks a significant change in the landscape, as you will leave the lush tree-filled environment behind.
As you arrive at Dole, you will notice the thinning air and the absence of three lines signalling your entry into the High altitude wind-swept alpine zone. The lodge is there are simple but provides welcome comfort after the day of trekking. Enjoy well-earned rest, as this will be your highest overnight stay at a crucial step in your accommodation for the days to come.
Today’s trek is a captivating journey through the high alpine landscapes of the Khumbu Valley. You’ll begin with a brief uphill climb, which then levels out into a pleasant, undulating trail. As you walk, you’ll be rewarded with a truly grand and expensive view of the surrounding high peaks. The terrain opens up, and you’ll find yourself in the region dominated by Yak grazing pastures, a clear sign of the high altitude environment.
Continuing on the slow, easy path, you will pass through a few scattered settlements, all existing these seasonal homes for the Yak herders. The walk culminates as you reach a crest overlooking Machhermo. From this vantage point, you’ll be greeted with an extraordinary view of Mount Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest peak, which dominates the northern skyline.
After soaking in the magnificent scenery, you will descend into the small but welcoming village of Machhermo. Upon arrival, you’ll check into the lodge for lunch and an overnight stay. The afternoon is intentionally free, providing a crucial opportunity for acclimatisation.
You can use this time to take a short exploratory walk around the area, which helps your body adjust to the thinner air. Machhermo is a beautiful and serene spot, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the dramatic Himalayan scenery. We’re continuing your ascent towards the renowned Gokyo lakes.
Today marks a major highlight of your trip as you journey to the spectacular Gokyo Valley, home to a series of stunning glacial lakes. This is a relatively short trekking day, allowing your body to acclimate slowly to the significant gain in altitude.
The walk begins with a gradual climb, taking you higher into the impressive Gokyo valley. Through a small settlement called Panga, a sign that you are nearing the famous lakes. The scenery truly transforms as you come up on the first of the Gokyo lakes, its turquoise waters gleaming under the Himalayan sun.
Continue along the trail, passing the second leg before arriving at the third and the largest lake, where the lodges are located. The lodges are perfectly situated, offering breathtaking views of the emerald coloured lake and surrounding peaks.
Upon arrival, you will have a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax and soak in the incredible scenery. Take a peaceful stroll along the Lakeshore where you can admire the magnificent reflections of the surrounding peaks like Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest mountain, and Gyachung Kang.
The tranquil beauty of Gokyo Lakes provides a perfect backdrop for rest and appreciation, preparing you for the next day’s climb to Gokyo Ri.
Today is a crucial and rewarding rest day in Gokyo, designed to allow your body to adapt fully to the altitude of 4,800m, where you have risen from the lower elevations before. The main activity of the day is an invigorating pre-dawn hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri, the highest point of this leg of the journey at 5,357m (17,575ft).
You’ll start this morning’s climb well before sunrise to experience one of the magnificent spectacles in the Himalayas: a panoramic sunrise over the world’s highest peaks. The steep, 2-3 hours steep ascent to the top is challenging, but every step is worth it.
From the summit will be treated to the breathtaking 360° panorama view includes four of the world’s highest mountains: the iconic Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The view also extends over the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the massive Ngozumpa glacier, the largest in Nepal.
After spending some unforgettable moments at this summit, you will descend back to your lodge in Gokyo for a well-deserved breakfast. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax, explore the village, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the Lakes.
This day of “climb high, sleep low” is a vital part of the recommendation process, ensuring you’re strong and ready for the next phase of your trip.
Another leisure day walks of a few hours on leaving the main Gokyo area and its lakes, where the route leads close to Ngozumba glacier to reach a small Yak herder settlement at Na, then walk for another hour to Thagnak for an overnight stop at the bottom of the high Cho-la pass.
Today is another relatively short and important day for your acclimatisation. You will leave the main book, your valley and its lakes, following a trail that skirts the massive Ngozumpa glacier.
This is a powerful experience as you walk alongside the longest glacier in the Himalayas, its surface a vast expanse of rock and ice leads you to a small Yak herder’s settlement called Na, where you may see Yaks grazing in a barren high altitude landscape.
From there, you will continue for about an hour to reach Thangnak. This small collection of lodges serves as a vital staging point at the very bottom of the High Chola Pass. Its location is strategically chosen for an early start the following morning, as we prepare to cross one of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the Everest Region adventure.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of your trip, requiring an early start to cross the High Chola Pass. The journey begins with a steep and demanding climb to the top of the past, which is also spelled as Tsho la, with “Tsho” meaning “Lake” In the local Sherpa language.
Although some small ponds may exist, they are often frozen solid throughout the year and are covered by rock falls and glacial movements, a testament to the dynamic nature of this high-altitude environment.
The pass itself is a high altitude reached that acts as a dramatic divide between the serene Gokyo Valley and the rugged trail leading to Everest Base Camp. As you reach the summit at 5,420m (17,782 ft), you will be greeted by a breathtaking sight: the top is adorned with Buddhist prayer flags that flutter in the wind alongside a large rock cairns that serve as a trail marker and a spiritual monument.
After soaking in the incredible sense of accomplishment and panoramic views, you will begin a careful descent. The trail down from the past is steep and rocky, requiring focus and stable footing. The path leads through to Dzongla, a small, isolated settlement nestled at the base of the mountain. After a long and tough day of trekking across the pass, the simple comfort of the Lodge in Dzongla is are welcome relief, providing a peaceful place to rest and recover for the next leg of your journey.
Today’s trek is a significant one as you rejoin the main Everest base camp starting from Dzongla. The morning begins with a close-up view of the impressive peaks of Cholatse and Taboche. That really starts with a gradual uphill climb for about an hour, levelling out into a pleasant undulating path. You will soon reach Thugla (Dugla), a small settlement where the trails from Pheriche and Dingboche converge, marking your official re-entry into the classic EBC route.
From Thugla, the path becomes a somber and poignant climb up to the terminal moraine of Khumbu Glacier. This section is a memorial area with numerous stone memorials and cairns dedicated to the climbers who lost their lives on Mount Everest. It’s a powerful and respected part of this journey. After this steep climb, the trail smooths out into a scenic path that leads directly to Lobuche.
Lobuche is a small, windswept village with a handful of lodges. Despite its remote location, the comfort of your cousins-in-law will be a welcome sight. Situated at the base of mighty Lobuche peak, this village is your final overnight stop before the main objective of your trek: Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. The views of your surrounding peaks from here are absolutely stunning, setting the stage for the final push after an incredible expedition.
Today is the culmination of your entire trek as you set out to reach the legendary Everest Base Camp. The morning begins with a steady climb above the massive Khumbu Glacier. As you ascend, the views become more and more respected. Capture with granite close-ups of the towering peaks like Mount Pumori and Lingtern, and Khumbutse, all standing guard around the Colossal Mount Everest . After a few good hours of walking, you will arrive in Gorakshep, a small isolated settlement that serves as the final stop with overnight accommodations before base camp.
After a brief, well-deserved rest at your loss, you will continue your journey to the Everest Base Camp. The 20 average base camp is an exhilarating walk across the rocky moraine and the Khumbu Glacier. Changing glacial landscape.The sight climbing teams in the distant signals that you have arrived. At the basecamp is surrounded by the awe-inspiring scenery of the Khumbu icefall and the vast glacier. After enjoying this incredible moment and capturing unforgettable photos, you will begin your return journey.
You’ll trek back to Gorakshep for the night. Spending the evening here allows you to rest and prepare for another major highlight of the trip tomorrow. The pre-dawn climb to the summit of the Col for the most iconic views of Mount Everest at sunrise, after a hard but rewarding day of achieving the primary goal of the expedition, a well-earned night of rest awaits.
Your day begins before sunrise with a challenging and rewarding climb to the summit of Kalapatthar. The steep ascent to this highest peak of your trek, at 5,545 metres (18,192 feet), takes a few hours.
The iconic viewpoint is the Rocky black knoll that offers the most intimate and spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest.
As the sun rises, it illuminates Everest in this stunning golden glow, a truly unforgettable moment that makes the strenuous climb entirely worthwhile. From the top, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding giants, including Pumori, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
After capturing these incredible memories will descend back to Gorakshep for a well-deserved breakfast. Your journey then continues with a long but scenic trip towards the lower valleys. The trail leads you to finish a temporary settlement in a wide, windswept valley. We stopped for lunch and enjoyed a magnificent view of peaks like Taboche, Cholatse, and Ama Dablam. In the distance, you might even catch a glimpse of majestic Mt. Cho Oyu.
Today marks a significant distance as you retrace your steps towards the bustling town of Namche Bazaar. The journey begins with a pleasant downhill walk from Pangboche to a bridge that crosses the Imja Khola river. After crossing the bridge, you will begin a steady hour-long climb that brings you back into the famous village of Tengboche. Here you are officially back within the dense forest of pine and rhododendron, leaving bearing high-altitude landscape behind.
Tengboche is a beautiful place, home to a magnificent monastery, one of the most important days in the Khumbu Valley. You will have some time to relax and perhaps visit the monastery, taking in its peace and spiritual atmosphere. From Tengboche, you will continue your trip following a familiar path as you retrace your journey. The trail meanders through forested hillsides, offering different perspectives of the surrounding peaks.
After a few more hours of walking, you will arrive back in Namche Bazaar. This feels like a return to civilization after your time in higher, more remote regions.Uh-huh.Bake or simply relax and reflect on the incredible journey that we have just completed. The overnight stop in Namche is a welcome comfort before the final push to Lukla.
Today marks the final day of trekking on the incredible Himalayan adventure is so long but pleasant and enjoyable walk back to the gateway town of Lukla. The journey begins with a brief uphill climb out of Man, she was, after which the trail becomes a gentle descent.
The path meanders through familiar landscapes, passing through lush forests, charming villages like Phakding, and across several suspension bridges. This final leg of the trip offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the challenging passes, magnificent peaks, and rich culture you have experienced.
The walk is a celebratory were filled with a sense of accomplishment. As we get closer to Lukla, the anticipation of reaching the end of your trekking journey grows. Upon arrival, you will check into the lodge for a final night in Khumbu Valley.
This evening is the time to relax and celebrate with your trekking companions and crew. It is also a special moment to bid farewell to the loyal and friendly porters and guides whose hard work and support made this unforgettable expedition possible. Enjoy your final dinner together, sharing stories and memories of your journey before your flight out tomorrow.
Today marks the final leg of your journey in the Himalayas. You’ll begin with a short early morning walk to the Tenzing-Hillary airport in Lukla. After bidding a final goodbye to the majestic mountain, you’ll board a small aircraft for a thrilling and scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The 3335-minute flight offers a breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayan range, of beautiful final memory of your high altitude adventure.
Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, or you can use your time to relax and recover from the trip, do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the bustling streets of Thamel, or explore some of the city’s other vibrant neighbourhoods.
This is a day well deserved for rest and celebration, allowing you to reflect on the incredible journey you have just completed.
This day is designated as a crucial contingency at Buffer Day in Kathmandu. It’s an essential part of your itinerary, designed to account for the unpredictable nature of mountain travel. Due to the variable weather conditions in the Everest region, flights to and from Lukla can sometimes be delayed or cancelled even during the peak trekking seasons. This extra day provides an important safeguard, ensuring that our international flight connections are not affected and allowing for a smooth and stress-free conclusion to your adventure.
Should your travel plans proceed without any hitches, this day becomes a fantastic opportunity for further exploration. You can choose to join our optional sightseeing tour with our expert city guide to delve deeper into Kathmandu’s rich history and cultural heritage, visiting sites of great interest.
You’ll spend the day at leisure, exploring the vibrant districts of Thamel, picking up the last-minute souvenir, or simply relaxing and reflecting on the incredible journey you have just completed. This day is a valuable addition, guaranteeing both Peace of Mind and a chance for a more memorable experience.
Accommodations in the Chola Pass trek are minimal. You can expect clean and comfortable, but not a luxury level of accommodation services, since it is a high altitude region.
These lodges usually offer shared bathroom facilities and communal dining areas where you can enjoy meals with fellow trekkers. The accommodations are safe, and the hospitality of the local people adds to the experience. However, do not expect luxury; rather, it is an authentic mountain experience that immerses you in the culture of the Sherpas.
The Cho La Pass is one of the adventurous treks in Nepal. The trek requires a good level of fitness and endurance of the trekker, but along the way, unforeseen situations might occur and injuries might happen since the trek is one of the toughest in Nepal. So one needs to be ready for the unpredictable circumstances and pack things accordingly. Below is the list of essential equipment one needs to pack for a smooth trip.
Altitude sickness medicine/Diamox
Ibuprofen or paracetamol
Oximeters.
Antiseptic liquids. (Betadine/Savlon)
Alcohol swabs or antiseptic wipes.
Band-aids, gauze pads, adhesive tapes.
Tweezers and small scissors.
ORS (oral Rehydration salts)
Anti Diarrheal. (e.g., Loperamide)
Probiotics or activated charcoal tablets
Lozenges and a nasal spray.
Cough syrup (non-drowsy type)
Lip balm, petroleum Jelly, cold cream.
Blister plasters (e.g., Compeed)
Elastic bandage for sprains.
Pain-relieving balm or spray
Eye drops.
Thermometer.
Surgical/ latex gloves.
Mittens
Hand-warmers
Trekking poles
Fist wraps
Woollen gloves
Four pairs of woollen socks
well-gripped waterproof boots
Flip-flops
Crampons
Soap bars
Shaving kits
Nail kits
Hand-sanitisers
Toothbrush
Mid-sized towel
Sanitary napkins
Shampoo sachets
Notebooks
Cameras
Water bladders of min. 2-liter capacity
Chargers and power banks
First-aid kits
Regular medicines
Multi-purpose Swiss army knife
Hydrate constantly at altitude; dehydration is dangerous. Rest if the symptoms of AMS start. – Don’t push higher. If your body is warning, (Motivation isn’t always the solution to reach the destination, your life matters). Avoid alcohol or smoking, worsens acclimatisation. Consult your doctor about high-altitude medication and possible side effects before the trek.
Always carry a bottle or two with you. Some stretches between villages can be long.
Insulated bottles help with cold water at higher altitudes.
Purification tablets wait at least 30 minutes before drinking.
Many trekkers prefer to stay in treehouses and purify themselves, as it is cheaper and sustainable.
Carry enough cash in NPR before flying to Lukla.
Budget for daily expenses, buffer for emergencies, and a tip. (Suggested 3000 to 4000 per day)
Dividing your money into smaller denominations is easier for transactions.
Some lodges and shops might not have changed for NPR 1000 notes at higher elevations.
Note: Anyone who needs to be under regular medication, please bring an adequate amount of medication while on the route, and also have insurance in case of emergency evacuation by helicopter.
You can purchase SIM cards from a local telecommunications store after providing a copy of your passport. As for the data-acquiring process, you’ll get instructions in the manual for the SIM card.
Ncell and NTC work up to Namche and patchily beyond that.
Travellers often prefer NTC, saying it has slightly better coverage up to the higher regions..
By a local SIM card in Kathmandu with a passport copy.
Pro tip: Carry a high-capacity power bank (20,000 mAh or more) and a solar charger if possible. Charging is limited above 4,000m.
Internet speed is sufficient for WhatsApp, email, and occasional social media posts, but may not meet expectations for Netflix and YouTube due to the elevations.
The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee.
Notes come in denominations like 5,10,20,500, and 1000.
Coins are rarely used and not accepted in remote trekking areas.
Exchange rates fluctuate, but as of early 2025,1 USD is equivalent to NPR 130-135.
Rates are slightly better at authorised money exchanges in Kathmandu compared to airports or hotels.
Kathmandu (especially the Thamel area) As numerous licensed money changers offering competitive rates.
You can also exchange it at banks, but they often require passport copies and may charge a small fee.
ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu and sometimes, like in Lukla, but not reliably beyond that.
After Lukla, no ATM are available. No money exchange facilities either- Cash is the only way.
Only a few lodges accept foreign currency. (USD/EUR) at low exchange rates.
Offers licensed, insured guides and porters.
Handles all logistics: flights, permits, accommodations, etc.
You pay more, but it’s stress-free and safer.
Slightly cheaper, but you’ll need to ensure they are licensed and experienced.
You’ll need to coordinate everything yourself ( permits, itinerary, bookings)
Recommended: Use a government-registered trekking agency in Kathmandu or online ahead of time for verified and insured staff.
Must be government-licensed.
Should have basic English and first-aid knowledge.
Experience in high-altitude trekking is a must.
Usually from the local sherpa or rai communities.
Can carry 20-25 kg of loads.
Often have limited English but are incredibly strong and helpful.
If you’re booking independently, ask for their trekking licence, insurance details, and past client reviews.
The Chola pass exceeds 2,500m, the altitude marked for altitude sickness, so trekkers are advised to stay alert and careful and be pre-equipped with caution and necessary resources to deal with any possible upcoming unforeseen altitude-related issues.
Altitude/ elevation sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly and your body struggles due to a lack of adequate oxygen. It typically affects people after ascending beyond 2500 metres (8,200 ft) and can escalate if ignored.
Symptoms usually begin 6-24 hours after ascent, and to help control the symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. It’s crucial to recognise early signs to take the situation under control.
Headache (Most common)
Nausea or Vomiting.
Loss of appetite.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Fatigue or unusual tiredness
Difficulty sleeping.
Persistent, worsening headache.
Confusion or disorientation
Shortness of breath, even at rest.
Difficulty walking (ataxia)
Tightness in the chest.
Severe fatigue.
Bluish lips or fingernails.
Symptoms include Confusion, hallucinations, poor coordination, drowsiness, or even coma.
Life-threatening and requires immediate descent.
Symptoms include breathlessness at rest, coughing (Possibly with pink froth), Tight chest, and blue lips.
Fatal if untreated.
Stay hydrated and avoid. Beverages like alcohol and caffeine, especially in the early days of the trek. Consume a high-calorie diet with carbohydrates. Avoid overeating and spicy food that could lead to stomach upset. Climb high, sleep low. Consider medication. Often recommended for the high elevation trekkers, Acetazolamide is often taken 1-2 days before reaching high altitudes. And most importantly, know when to stop or descend. And most importantly, report even the slightest uneasiness to the guide or fellow companion.
Preparing for the trip to the Khumbu region requires a multifaceted approach focusing on physical readiness, health and accommodation, and proper gear. The journey, while physically demanding, is a test of endurance over rugged high altitude cheering, so building your cardiovascular and lower body strength through regular exercise and practising hikes is essential.
To combat the biggest trade, altitude sickness, or slow and steady ascent is paramount, incorporating rest days to allow your body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen level. Hydration is also a critical component of staying healthy at the attitude, so you must commit to drinking plenty of water for gear. A layered clothing system is the most effective way to manage the fluctuating temperatures, and high quality well well-fitting pair of waterproof hiking boots is non-negotiable.
Finally, be sure to have all the necessary permits in order. The required documents for trekking in the Everest region are the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. This can be obtained upon arrival in Kathmandu or at a designated checkpoint along the trekking route.
