Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Trek

Chola Pass Trek is also known as Everest Circuit trek, this is one of the most adventurous treks in the Everest Himalayas, it follows the route via high pass of Cho La at 5,330m into the Base Camp of Mount Everest. A unique trek that goes through Lukla, Namche bazaar and all the way to Gokyo, Chola Pass, Kalapattar and Everest Base Camp.

Leading you to the home of the legendary Sherpa people, based at the foothills of the highest peak in the world, Mt. Everest at 8,848m. This trek follows the highly praised trekking route through the Dudh Koshi to its source the Gokyo Lake which is to the west of the Everest Base Camp, giving you the benefit to summit Gokyo Peak (5,483m) offering a fantastic panoramic view of Cho Oyo, Everest and Makalu.

As we cross the Cho-La pass, and return back to Lukla following the route through Everest Base Camp, Kalapattar down to Tengboche monastery, Khumjung village, Namche Bazar and Lukla.

Enjoy the breathtaking views of Everest including several other similar peaks and explore the Buddhists monasteries located at the world’s highest elevation.
The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. Our trip can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m) – Welcome to the Himalayan Capital

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital city. After some rest, meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing about the Renjo Pass Trek itinerary, permits, and safety protocols. Explore the lively streets of Thamel or enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner. This day helps you settle in and prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Mulkot (4–5 Hours, 493 m)

After breakfast, enjoy a pleasant drive through rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and riverside settlements toward Mulkot. The journey offers an early glimpse of Nepal’s rural charm, with winding roads following the Sun Koshi River. Upon arrival, check into a riverside lodge and relax. Dinner and overnight stay at Mulkot, preparing for the early morning flight the next day.

Day 3: Drive to Ramechhap (494 m), Fly to Lukla (2,840 m), and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

Drive to Ramechhap Airport for a short yet thrilling mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Meet your porter team and begin trekking through pine forests, Buddhist chortens, and prayer wheels along the Dudh Koshi River. Pass Sherpa villages and mani walls before reaching Phakding (2,610 m). Overnight at a teahouse beside the river.

Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,450 m) – Entering the Heart of Khumbu

The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Bridge. Stop at Monjo for Sagarmatha National Park entry registration. A steep climb rewards you with your first view of Mt. Everest if weather permits. Arrive at Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital surrounded by snow-capped peaks. [Walking distance: 5–6 hrs]

Day 5: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3,450 m) – Hike to Everest View Hotel

Spend the day acclimatizing with a short hike to Syangboche and Everest View Hotel (3,900 m), offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Enjoy a warm beverage overlooking the Himalayas before descending back to Namche. Explore local bakeries, shops, and the Sherpa Museum. This active rest day prepares your body for higher elevations.

Day 6: Trek from Namche to Dole (4,200 m) – Ascending into Alpine Terrain

Leave Namche and climb gradually toward Mong La Pass with spectacular views of Thamserku and Ama Dablam. Descend through rhododendron forests to Phortse Tenga and then ascend again to Dole. The changing vegetation signals your entrance into the subalpine zone. Overnight stay in a cozy teahouse at Dole, surrounded by pristine mountain air.

Day 7: Trek from Dole to Machermo (4,470 m) – Into the Gokyo Valley

Today’s trail passes through small yak pastures like Lhabarma and Luza, with incredible views of Cho Oyu (8,188 m). The walk is gradual but steady, ideal for acclimatization. Arrive at Machermo, a serene village overlooking the Dudh Koshi valley. After lunch, explore the nearby hills or attend a short altitude briefing session at the Machermo Rescue Post.

Day 8: Acclimatization at Machermo (4,470 m) – Explore and Rest

Enjoy a relaxed day to acclimatize and explore the surroundings. Optional hikes lead to viewpoints above Machermo, offering scenic vistas of Kangtega and Thamserku. Spend the afternoon relaxing or chatting with fellow trekkers. This rest day helps your body adjust comfortably before heading toward the higher altitudes of Gokyo.

Day 9: Trek from Machermo to Gokyo (4,790 m) – Lakes and Glacier Views

Trek through gentle trails leading to the mesmerizing Gokyo Valley. Cross small streams and moraines before reaching the first of the turquoise-blue Gokyo Lakes. Continue past the second lake to the third, where Gokyo village lies by the shore. Overnight stay with a stunning backdrop of Cho Oyu and the Ngozumpa Glacier.

Day 10: Ascent to Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) – Panoramic Himalayan Views

Begin early to climb Gokyo Ri, one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region. From the summit, admire a breathtaking 360° panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—all above 8,000 meters. The turquoise lakes below contrast beautifully with the snowy peaks. Return to Gokyo for lunch and relax for the afternoon. [Walking distance: 4–5 hrs]

Day 11: Trek Across Ngozumpa Glacier to Thangnak (4,700 m)

Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest, navigating rocky trails and frozen sections. The trek offers surreal views of the glacier’s icy landscape and nearby peaks. Reach Thangnak, a small settlement serving as the base for Cho La Pass. In the afternoon, hike to Thangnak Ri (5,000 m) for acclimatization. [Walking distance: 4–5 hrs]

Day 12: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m) and Descend to Dzongla (4,843 m)

A challenging but rewarding day as you climb the icy Cho La Pass. The path is steep and often snow-covered, but the panoramic view from the top is extraordinary. Descend carefully over rocky terrain to reach Dzongla, a tranquil resting spot beneath Cholatse Peak. [Walking distance: 8–10 hrs]

Day 13: Trek to Lobuche (4,930 m) – Along the Khumbu Glacier Route

Walk along the glacial moraine toward Dhugla, where memorials honor climbers who perished on Everest. Continue following the classic Everest Base Camp trail, with views of Pumori and Nuptse. The trail gradually climbs to Lobuche, a small cluster of lodges nestled below towering mountains. [Walking distance: 5 hrs]

Day 14: Climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and Descend to Gorakshep (5,200 m)

An early morning climb to Kala Patthar offers one of the best sunrise views over Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks. Capture the glowing Himalayan giants before descending to Gorakshep for breakfast. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at the lodge and soaking in the incredible atmosphere. [Walking distance: 6–7 hrs]

Day 15: Excursion to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Return to Lobuche (4,930 m)

Trek along the Khumbu Glacier to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp, where climbers prepare for their summit attempts. Take photos, enjoy the achievement, and reflect on standing at the base of the world’s highest peak. After exploring, descend back to Lobuche for a warm meal and rest. [Walking distance: 7–9 hrs]

Day 16: Trek to Pangboche (3,980 m) via Pheriche – Descending through the Valley

Begin your descent, passing through the windswept Pheriche valley surrounded by towering mountains. Continue to Pangboche, known for its ancient monastery and traditional Sherpa homes. The air grows thicker, and the landscape turns greener as you lose altitude. [Walking distance: 5 hrs]

Day 17: Trek Back to Namche Bazaar (3,450 m) – Return to Civilization

Descend through rhododendron forests and suspension bridges, stopping at Tengboche Monastery for one last mountain view. Continue down to Namche via Phungi Tenga, rejoining the Dudh Koshi River. Celebrate your final evening in the Sherpa capital with your team. [Walking distance: 5 hrs]

Day 18: Trek to Lukla (2,800 m) – Farewell to the Khumbu Trails

Retrace your steps through Monjo and Jorsalle, crossing the Hillary Bridge once again. Enjoy your last views of the Himalayas and bid farewell to your porters in Lukla. Relax at a local teahouse and celebrate your successful Renjo Pass Trek completion. [Walking distance: 6–7 hrs]

Day 19: Fly to Kathmandu (1,300 m) via Ramechhap

Take an early morning scenic flight back to Ramechhap and drive onward to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Reflect on your incredible Himalayan adventure or explore local attractions. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 20: Half-Day Sightseeing and Shopping in Kathmandu

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, or Boudhanath Stupa. You may also shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, or trekking gear in Thamel. Optional guided tours are available upon request.

Day 21: Final Departure – Farewell from Nepal (1,300 m)

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Take home unforgettable memories of the Renjo Pass Trek and the warm hospitality of Nepal. The Himalayas will always welcome you back for another adventure.

Cost Includes

– Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private tourist vehicle.
– Standard twin sharing accommodation in a three star hotel in Kathmandu; Breakfast included. (4 nights)
– Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private tourist vehicle.
– All your standard Meals during the trek (Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners).
– Lodges, Guesthouses accommodation during the trek (11 nights Trekking Guesthouse in twin sharing and occasionally dormitory style).
– Local Himalayan Trail Blazer licensed English speaking guide.
– The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests).
– Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff.
– Everest National Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking.
– Down Jacket and sleeping bag by Himalayan Trail Blazer (which need to be returned after the trek).
– Airfare from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu including airport departure tax in Kathmandu and Lukla airport.
– Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu.
– Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees in Kathmandu (On Day 2).
– Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show on second last day (On Day 15th).
– All our government taxes, vat, tourist service charges.
– Official expenses.

Cost Does not Include

– Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
– Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
– International airfare and airport departure tax.
– Nepal entry visa; you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport size photos).
– Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
– Personal trekking Equipment (See the trekking equipment page).
– Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).
– Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section.

What is the success rate for your trips?

We have up to 98% success rate for our Everest treks.

What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me?

Everest base camp standard trek is suitable for average people who are moderately fit, thus no previous experience is required. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, hiking is recommended before you embark on your journey. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.

To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least two to three months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. They are physically strong, sharp-witted and have an incredibly positive attitude towards a life that we would consider extremely tough. There is something about a trek in the Himalaya that draws you back time and time again. For keen walkers it is a paradise and even avowed non-walkers find that one foot just seems to follow the other, drawn by the appeal of what lies beyond.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Himalayan Trail Blazer sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu and in trekking?

We use standard rooms at three star hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes, teahouses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you Himalayan Trail Blazer sleeping bags if needed (to be returned after the trip) but it is a good idea to always have your own sleeping equipment.The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory. At times when possible, dining will be around a bon fire. In tea houses, food will be prepared in the kitchen which you should not enter without permission. The toilet in tea houses provides essential and basic facilities and are always outside the room.

Is it possible to reserve a trip now and pay deposit later or do I HAVE to pay deposit at booking/reservation?

Yes! The trip will be confirmed only when we receive the completed final booking form and 30% deposit payment. You can pay the balance of the money when you arrive in Kathmandu.

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

Yes! We can surely book separate rooms in Kathmandu for your portion of the trip. During the trek we will try our best but normally the lodges have twin sharing and dormitory styled room instead of a single room. The lodges will provide a private room for one person when the room is free and additional cost is not required.

The additional cost is USD 70 per person for booking a single room in Kathmandu for four nights when booking for groups of two or more than two people. For one person the trip price of USD 1800 per person already includes a single room supplement fee.

Is this a guaranteed departure even if I am alone stating in the request 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.

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 cash, American Express, Travelers Check, Master or Visa cards for the payment options. There will be 4% bank levy when paying by credit cards.

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 destination.

Is the food in mountain prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

YES, the food is very safe during the trekking and we recommend you to eat the vegetarian and local food.

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 elevation per littler. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

What mode of transportation do you use?

Himalayan Trail Blazer is all about providing you with local insights, lifestyle as well as adventure. Depending on the nature of the travel, the transportation to and from the destination varies from domestic flights to vehicular transportation to even piggyback rides on mules and yaks. We provide you only those options which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans or alternatively 4WD SUVs, more maneuverable in travelling along the narrow and bumpy roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.

For domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu), we use Tara Air, Agni Air -popular domestic airlines.

What is the best season for this 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.

Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C, only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

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. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible in the lower altitude.

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 really 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 -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 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. For a full list of clothing and materials to bring to account for various temperatures and weather changes that can occur in the Everest region, visitors should work closely with their travel provider. This will ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable no matter what the weather and that every possible scenario will be accounted for ahead of time.
I m a Vegeterain, is that a Problem ?

No problem at all because the lodges mostly serve the vegetarian meals. We always recommend our clients to eat vegetarian meals to avoid the food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non- vegetarian meals at the high altitude is not really safe for the stomach.

What is the weather and temperature like in trekking?

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Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center? Have they received first aid training for high altitude?

Yes, they have all received a 45-day training from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center in Nepal. The guides have also received high altitude first aid training from KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).

What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

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Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?

Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.

What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory in Himalaya, 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 prior to travelling.
That you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and Himalayan Trail Blazer at the time of your booking.

Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

NOTE: During the trip; weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors, that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Flight Delay in Kathmandu and Lukla

Twin Otter is the primary mode of transport to and from the airstrip at Lukla. This service is fairly dependable. Sometimes, flights (to and from Lukla) may be cancelled due to mountain weather conditions or technical problems. In such case, Himalayan Trail Blazer will charter a helicopter to ensure you are on schedule for your international flight. The helicopter can fly if the visibility is 1500m, while the twin otter can fly if the visibility is 5000m, as per Nepal’s Civil Aviation rules.

The cost of the helicopter is payable directly to our Kathmandu office in the event that this service is utilized. US cash, traveler’s cheques, 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 minimum cost will be US$500 and maximum US$3500 depending on the number of group members.

“ Join Upcoming Everest Base Camp Trek starting from 19-10-2026 and 30-10-2026
Note: The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. Our trip can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.”

Trip Facts
Destination:	Everest Region, Nepal
Trip Grade:	Moderate to Strenuous
Max Altitude:	5,364 m (Everest Base Camp)
Best Season:	Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Group Size:	2–12
Start/End:	Kathmandu
Accommodation:	Lodge, Camping (Any One)

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What Our Client Says ?

Eric Larsen – Everest Expedition Summit 2010 Autumn

In autumn 2010, I joined the Everest Expedition organized by Himalayan Trail Blazer. Expeditions to Everest during the autumn season are rare, yet the team executed everything with outstanding professionalism, safety, and care. From the meticulous planning to the on-ground support, their expertise was evident at every step. I felt fully supported throughout the journey, and the experience remains one of the most memorable adventures of my life. I would highly recommend Himalayan Trail Blazer to anyone seeking a genuine and well-organized Himalayan expedition.”

Ryan Waters – Dhaulagiri Expedition 2010

Partnering with Himalayan Trail Blazer for the Dhaulagiri Expedition was an outstanding experience. Their logistical support, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of the Himalayan region made all the difference in ensuring the team’s safety and success. From the planning stages in Kathmandu to the final summit push, everything was handled with professionalism and genuine care. I’ve led expeditions across the world, and I can confidently say that Himalayan Trail Blazer sets a new standard in high-altitude guiding and support in Nepal.