EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Arrive in Kathmandu and one of our representatives will receive you and then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore the city where your hotel is located which is usually at Thamel – the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu where every needs and facilities for the tourist are located like hotels, pubs, restaurants, departmental stores, trek gear shops etc. Or you can simply rest at your hotel if you are jet lagged and get ready for an amazing Himalayan trek. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu. you 

Day 02: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840m/40min) & trek to Phakding (2610/3-4hrs)

Wake up early in the morning and drive to the domestic section of the airport in Kathmandu for a flight to Lukla. After checking the weather it’s flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at Tenzing Hillary Airport. You will have a packed breakfast from the hotel which can be eaten while waiting for the plane at Kathmandu airport.

After a 40-45-minute flight from Kathmandu, you will finally land at Lukla and then begin your trek to Phakding –a small village in the Khumbu region. Lukla is also the place where your porters will be waiting for you. The trail goes through a green path crossing several villages like Chauri Kharka and Ghat then finally reaches Phakding for an overnight stay. Overnight at Lodge in Phakding (Breakfast in Kathmandu & Lunch/Dinner on trek) 

Note: Flights from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa may be rerouted to Manthali during the peak trekking seasons of March, April, May, September, October, and November due to increased air traffic congestion. Manthali is 5 hours drive from Kathmandu and we need to start at 12.30am for  Kathmandu/Manthali drive to catch the flight to Lukla from Manthali. During December, January, February, June, July, or August, you will experience a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa.

Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m/5-6 hrs)

After breakfast, the trek begins with the trail going through forests, traditional villages with ploughed fields, and yak pastures then reaches the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park from where Mt. Thamserku can be spotted.

After completing permit formalities and having lunch you will climb up to Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the gateway to the Everest region and the biggest Sherpa town in the Khumbu region where many hotels, luxury resorts, restaurants, pubs, trek shops etc are located. You name it, they have it at Namche and if you forget to shop for any trekking gear in Kathmandu, Namche is the last point to do so but the price may differ. Overnight at Lodge in Namche Bazaar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 04: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar

Today is the rest day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and to cope with the rising elevation. You can go for a side excursion to Hotel Everest View (3880m) which is considered the hotel located at the highest point on earth. From its balcony, you can have the first glimpse of Mt. Everest and the other world’s highest peaks while sipping tea/coffee. Then it’s back to your hotel in Namche Bazaar. In the evening, you can explore Namche, talk with the locals, and meet many other trekkers and mountaineers from around the world. Overnight at Lodge in Namche Bazaar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m/5-6 hrs)

Today’s trek involves many steep ascents and descents, and it’s also a good opportunity for nice photography. On the list are Stupas (Buddhist shrines), prayer flags, mani walls (walls with Buddhist prayers carved into them), and mountains, such as Ama Dablam, and Tengboche Monastery which all are worth a good picture.

The trail up to Tengboche from Lukla is a dusty switchback path but it is all worthwhile as you reach Tengboche which offers a spectacular panorama. Tengboche has the largest Buddhist monastery which is the largest and the most important monastery in Khumbu. Pay a visit to the monastery and with a small donation, you can light some butter lamps. Overnight at Lodge in Tengboche (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 06: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m/5-6 hrs)

The trail is quite challenging today but with a very scenic route. The trail follows the Imja Khola ‘River’ climbing up to Dingboche and passing along windswept fields (mainly potato). Dingboche is the highest Sherpa village in Khumbu. The view of AmaDablam is spectacular from Dingboche which arrived during lunch time. After lunch at Dingboche, the rest of the afternoon is free to explore watch the surrounding Himalayas or dig into your books. etc Overnight at Lodge in Dingboche (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 07: Rest Day In Dingboche; Hike to Chhukung (4730m) & back to Dingboche (4410m/3-4 hrs)

As the altitude increases it’s important to get better acclimatization so it’s rest/acclimatization day at Dingboche. You can rest at your lodge or there are several side excursions like a hike to Nangkar Tshang Peak, with its sacred sites and views of Mt Makalu. Or hike to Chhukung (4,730 m) which provides majestic views of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Choyo. You will also notice Imja Khola Valley as well as the fields and pastures of Dingboche. Afterwards, back to the lodge at Dingboche. Overnight at Lodge in Dingboche (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 08: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4910m/5-6 hrs)

Today you will gently climb to the Pheriche Valley and then trek above the valley floor passing along alpine scrub and yak pastures. En route get a good view of Tawoch and Cholotse, with Ama Dablam behind us. From here you will notice as if AmaDablam is just rising from the valley floor.

Then you will continue to Thokla Pass, where the ascent is challenging. From here is another good opportunity for the best photos of the peaks like Nuptse, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, and a few other 7,000-plus meter peaks. After crossing this pass will finally reach Lobuche. Lobuche isn’t a big town but is surrounded by dramatic and beautiful surroundings. Overnight at Lodge in Lobuche (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 09: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5140m) / Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp (5364 m) /Everest Base Camp to Gorakshep (8-9 hrs)

Today is the big day as you will be attending Everest Base Camp, the foot of Mt. Everest. You will start first with 3 hours hike to the small village of Gorekshep passing over boulders and rough terrain.
Then hike to Everest Base Camp and upon arrival feel the majesty of the base camp, walk over the Khumbu Glacier from where Everest summiters start their journey to the top. Celebrate your achievement with your trek guide and other members at the base camp. From the base camp enjoy views of Khumbu Icefall, Khumbu Glacier, Nuptse, Pumori, Khumbutse, and a little bit of Everest. Afterwards, back to Gorekshep for the overnight stay. Overnight at lodge in Gorekshep (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 10: Hike up to Kalapattar (5545 meters) and trek to Dzongla (4620m/6-7 hrs)

Hike early in the morning to Kalapatthar to witness sunrise views over the Himalayas. The hike from Gorekshep to Kalapatthar viewpoint is about an hour going uphill. From its summit enjoy spectacular views of peaks like Mt.Pumori, Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse and others.

Then hike back to Gorekshep for breakfast and hike continues downhill to Dzongla losing more than 1000 meters. Soon the village of Dzongla is reached for the overnight stay. Today is the longest trek day about 6-7 hours. Overnight at lodge in Dzongla (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)  

Day 11: Trek from Dzongla to Thangna (4650 m/4-5 hrs)

Trek begins after breakfast where the path is a level track at first. Walking further through fields will take you to a parched valley. Then begins the quite challenging trek with the path to Cho La Pass which is a steep and icy uphill walk. Then the trail descends to Phedi on a different path. After walking for a few hours will reach Thangna. The old-fashioned village of Thanga offers a great mountain panorama including Machhermo Peak. Overnight at lodge in Thangna (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)   

Day 12: Trek from Thangna to Gokyo (4750m/5-6 hrs)

The trek begins with ascending upwards on the wall of the valley to enjoy spectacular mountain views. In winter you will enjoy white panorama all over the region. You should take your steps carefully as there might be crevasses along the route as you will be walking on the Ngozumpa Glacier – the longest glacier in the Himalayas, below Mt Cho Oyu- the sixth-tallest peak in the world. Soon the beautiful lake of Gokyo is reached. Explore around the lake walking at its shore looking at the blue water, enjoying the cold wind and the mountains around the lake. Overnight at lodge in Gokyo (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 13: Climb Gokyo Ri (5483m.) and trek to Machhermo (4410m/4 & half hrs)

Early in the morning hike to Gokyo-Ri, another popular Himalayan viewpoint in Everest, then to Machhermo via Gokyo village. Gokyo-Ri is above the village on the northern edge of the lake. Climbing up to Gokyo-Ri the sights of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu slowly come into view and from its summit as well. Some even say that the view from Gokyo-Ri is even better than Kala Patthar. After Gokyo-Ri trek to Machhermo. Overnight at lodge in Machhermo (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 14: Trek from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar (3440 m/5 hrs)

Today is trek from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar taking about 5 hours. The trail today gently descends with a crossing over Dole then again descends steeply to Photse Tenga (3650m) passing through rhododendron forests. Then, the path immediately ascends steeply to Mongla Danda (4,000 m.) and gently descends up to Kyanjoma (3500m.) following a small up and down trail to Namche Bazaar. Overnight at lodge in Namche Bazaar (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) 

Day 15: Trek from Namche to Lukla (2840m/6 hrs)

It’s the last day of the trek and you head down from Namche Bazaar to Lukla from where you first started your trek to Everest. Today is the distance you covered in three days at the early stage of the trek and it should not be tough since it is downhill to Lukla. Make the most out of your day today. Lukla is reached after 6 hours of walking and check-in lodge for the overnight stay. Overnight at lodge in Lukla (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)  

Day 16: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1400m/ 40min)

Bid farewell to the Everest region and the mountain, and take again the trans-Himalayan flight back to Kathmandu to Lukla. The Himalayas slowly fade from your plane window screen and finally land at the airport in Kathmandu. Then drive to a hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore or simply rest at your hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu (Breakfast in Lukla) 

Day 17: Final Departure

The trip concludes and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours before your flight time at the airport.

Thank you for visiting Nepal and we hope your Himalayan Holiday has come true. Have a safe flight back home!

EQUIPMENT CHECK-LIST

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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1. What is the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek?

The EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek is a challenging and adventurous trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It combines the famous Everest Base Camp trek with the Gokyo Valley and the crossing of the challenging Chola Pass.

2. What is the starting point of the trek?

The trek often starts from the town of Lukla, which is accessible by a short flight from Kathmandu. From Lukla, trekkers follow the trail to Namche Bazaar, and then some trekkers choose to visit Gokyo Valley before continuing to Everest Base Camp and crossing the Chola Pass.

3. Is the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek difficult?

The EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a high level of physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, and crossing the Chola Pass at an elevation of about 5,420 meters (17,782 feet) can be physically demanding.

4. What is the best time to do the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek?

The best time for the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, making the trekking experience more enjoyable.

5. Are permits required for the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek?

Yes, permits are required for the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek. The required permits typically include the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

6. What are the highlights of the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek?

The trek offers a range of highlights, including reaching Everest Base Camp, exploring the stunning Gokyo Valley and its glacial lakes, crossing the challenging Chola Pass, witnessing panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other Himalayan peaks, and experiencing the unique Sherpa culture and hospitality.

7. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

Teahouses and lodges are available along the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek route, providing basic accommodation and meals. The facilities may not be luxurious, but they are sufficient for a comfortable stay.

8. What kind of preparation is needed for the EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek?

EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek takes you through the heart of the Himalayas, allowing you to experience the diverse Nepalese culture and the scenic beauty of the mountain range. However, it is important to note that this is not a trek for the faint-hearted. It requires physical fitness, some prior trekking experience, and proper preparation to tackle the high altitude and challenging terrains. Here are some things you need to keep in mind before embarking on this trek: 1. Physical Fitness: A trek to EBC Chola Pass Gokyo requires a significant level of physical fitness. You should start regular workouts a few months before the trek, including cardio, strength training, and endurance exercises to enhance your capacity to withstand high altitudes and rough terrains. You should also consult with a doctor to make sure you are physically fit enough for the trek. 2. Acclimatization: As you trek to higher altitudes, the air becomes thin, and your body may not be able to adjust quickly. Therefore, you need to plan for acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. It’s essential to take rest days en route to allow your body to adjust and not push yourself too hard. 3. Clothing and Gear: You should invest in proper trekking equipment, including good quality trekking shoes, warm clothes, down jackets, gloves, hats, and sunglasses. Don’t forget important gear such as a headlamp, sleeping bag, and a trekking pole. All these items will help you navigate through the terrain and also keep you safe and comfortable. 4. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and well-nourished is crucial during the trek. You should carry water purification tablets and drink plenty of fluids, including hot water, soups, and tea. Trekking in higher altitudes can also affect your appetite, so carry enough energy bars and snacks to keep you going. EBC Chola Pass Gokyo Trek is an incredible adventure that requires proper preparation before undertaking it. So, then you must prepare yourself both mentally and physically for an incredible trek in the Himalayas. The trek is a challenging yet rewarding experience that requires proper preparation and essential gear. By training properly, acclimatizing your body, and seeking the aid of an experienced guide, you’ll increase your chances of a successful and memorable trekking journey.

The provided trip plan by Marron Treks is customizable but subject to unpredictable factors like weather, political unrest, and flight disruptions in Nepal. Delays or changes might occur due to various reasons, and Marron Treks will prioritize client safety. However, they are not liable for resulting consequences, striving to maintain the essence of the original trip plan. Since Kathmandu airport cannot handle the high volume of air traffic, all flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and vice versa will be operated from Ramechap Airport during the busiest trekking season. From Kathmandu, Ramechap is five hours' journey away.

Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar.

During the trek, you will be accommodated in a Tea House/ Lodge or Trekking Inn. Most of these lodges and teahouses cater good services and are equipped with modern amenities. We will endeavor to provide you the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.

 

Meals
We never compromise with the quality of food and the health of the trekkers as well as the crew members. Generally, we opt for the fresh and nutritional local community food available in the Everest Region. You could make your delicious pick from an array of traditional food like Sweet Potato, Buck Wheat Barley etc. . This way, you could not only get the real sense of the local culture and life patterns but also contribute to promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Besides, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads, Masala Curry etc. are also available in the restaurants for your retreat.

Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitude conditions, are provided with adequate clothing and equipments.

 

Best Months
The periods between the months of January-June & September-December are considered to be the best for Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar Trek.

 

Any Experience Required?
There is nothing hard and fast rule about trekking experience. Any adventure enthusiast, with a generic physical aptitude can definitely relish the thrill of this trek.

 

Difficulties
Difficulty here is actually synonymous to ‘high altitude’. As this trek involves some seriously high altitude climbing above 5000 meters, one is likely to experience some problem in breathing owing to the deteriorating oxygen level. But as this is something which is anticipated, we do have enough precautionary measures to tackle it.

 

Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you could actually connect with the nature, culture and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides, who are fairly literate, multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the Everest region. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining, but also equally informative.

 

Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both- medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you, makes your trip secure and hassle free.

Cost Inclusion

• Airport pick-up and drop services.
• Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu with breakfast.
• Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu round airfare.
• All trekking accommodations with Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner at local lodges.
• Four seasonal sleeping bags and duffel bags (to be returned after trip completion).
• A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the trekking guide).
• Experienced Government licensed English Speaking Guide & Porter (1 porter for two people) including their food, accommodation, salary & insurance.
• Permits for Everest National Park, Khumbu Municipality and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System).
• Farewell Dinner at Nepali Authentic Restaurant.
• All government and local taxes. 

Cost Exclusion

• International airfares.
• Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
• Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu.
• Personal travel insurance.
• Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
• Excess baggage charges (luggage allowance for domestic airlines in Nepal is 15 kgs.)
• Expenses of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower etc.)
• Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the itinerary due to bad weather, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
• Tips to the guide and porters (Tipping is expected).