Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek - 15 days
Everest Base Camp - Chola Pass - Gokyo Trek is a slightly altered version of the classic Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek. Instead of taking the same path to return to Namche after summiting EBC from Lobuche, you will take a different route that progresses through Dzongla across the Chola Pass into the Gokyo region and Macchermo. This route alteration makes this trek more adventurous and provides a broader insight into the high Himalayan landscapes, flora, fauna, and the Sherpa settlements.
Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek Highlights
- One of the world’s highest airports at Syangboche (3,780m / 12.402ft)
- Chance to explore local Sherpa culture, tradition, and architecture
- The magnificent views of the world’s highest peak, Everest (8,848.68m/29,029ft), and others, such as Mt. Lhotse(8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and Mt. Makalu (8,463m)
- Explore Sagarmatha National Park and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna (including musk deer, colorful pheasants, snow leopards, and Himalayan Tahrs)
- Prayer wheels, colorful flags, Mani stones, high suspension bridges, ancient monasteries, including Tengboche Monastery, Khumjung Monastery, and others
- The highest glacier on Earth- Khumbu Glacier (4,900 m)
- Amazing panoramic views from Kala Patthar (5,555m)
- Amazing views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft)
- Pristine Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Lake, Gokyo Ri Viewpoint, and Cho La Pass (5,420m)
- Edmund Hillary funded schools and hospital
Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek Overview
The Everest Base Camp Cho La Pass Gokyo Trek is a spectacular high-altitude adventure, combining three iconic highlights—Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and the pristine Gokyo Lakes. This diverse route offers a comprehensive exploration of the Khumbu region, providing both classic and alternative perspectives of Everest while traversing glaciated passes, alpine valleys, and shimmering turquoise lakes.
The trek begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla either from Kathmandu or Manthali, followed by an ascent through Phakding and Namche Bazaar, the heart of the Khumbu. The journey continues through Tengboche, Dingboche, and Gorak Shep, leading to Everest Base Camp, where you stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak. An early-morning ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) offers breathtaking sunrise views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
You will take a different route on your way back. From Gorakshep, you will return to Dzongla and then to the Gokyo Valley region, tackling the demanding Cho La Pass, navigating steep icy slopes and rugged terrain before reaching the Ngozumpa Glacier—the longest in Nepal. Entering Gokyo, you are greeted by emerald-green lakes, reflecting the towering peaks that surround them. An ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) provides a stunning vantage point of Everest from the west, a contrast to the classic viewpoint at Kala Patthar.
The return route follows a scenic variation through Dole and Phortse, offering quieter trails and fresh perspectives of the Khumbu Himalayas, before concluding in Lukla with a flight back to Kathmandu.
This 15-day adventure is an epic trek, blending high-altitude challenges, pristine landscapes, and cultural immersion, making it the perfect Himalayan experience for those seeking exploration beyond Everest Base Camp.
Note
We recommend that our valued clients arrive in Kathmandu no later than 3 PM at least one day prior to the trek departure date to allow time for final preparations.
Online Trip Briefing:
The online briefing will answer all your questions about the trek, including what to pack (gear checklist), the daily schedule, and what the trail is like. After you book the trek, we’ll email you the available dates and times for the briefing. Once we get your important documents, we’ll hold the online trek briefing.
Lukla Flight Information
During peak trekking months (March, April, May, October, and November), flights to Lukla often depart from Ramechhap (Manthali) instead of Kathmandu because of airport traffic. In this case, you'll need to leave Kathmandu around 12:30 a.m. for a five-hour drive to catch your flight from Ramechhap on the trek departure date. Outside of peak seasons, flights usually operate directly from Kathmandu.
Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla can be delayed due to weather, so it's a good idea to add at least two extra days to your trip to avoid missing your international flight home.
Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla. Flight time: Approx 40 min from KTM/20 min from Manthali. Trek to Phakding (2,650 m). Trek time: Approx. 3 hrs.
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). Trek time: Approx. 6 hrs.
Rest day and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche to Tengboche (3875m). Trek time: Approx. 5 hours.
Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m). Trek time: Approx. 5 hours.
Acclimatization at Dingboche.
Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m). Trek time: Approx. 5 hours.
Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorak Shep (5,185m). Trek time: Approx. 6-8 hours.
Trek to Kala Patthar Viewpoint from Gorak Shep and then to Dzongla (4,855m). Trek time: Approx. 7-8 hours.
Trek from Dzongla via Cho La Pass and then to Thangnak (4,700m). Trek time: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Trek from Thangnak to Gokyo (4,790m). Trek time: Approx. 5 hours.
Gokyo to Gokyo Ri viewpoint and to Machhermo (4,470m). Trek time: Approx. 5 hours.
Trek from Machhermo to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). Trek time: Approx. 5-6 hours.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,850m). Trek time. Approx. 6-7 hours.
Fly back to Kathmandu/ Manthali from Lukla. Flight time: Approx. 40 min for KTM/20 min for Manthali. Drive time: Approx. 5 hrs from Manthali to KTM
Select the start and end dates for your trek. Keep in mind that your travel arrangements, including arrival and departure, should align with your complete itinerary and schedule.
Group-Size Discounts will be applied in next step.
Continue BookingEverest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek Video
Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek Short Itinerary
Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft). Trek to Phakding ( 2,650m / 8,562ft)
The journey begins with a breathtaking flight from Kathmandu or Manthali to Lukla, a thrilling experience as you soar above the majestic Himalayas. The exact flight depends on the trek seasons.
During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, Sept, October, and November), Lukla flights departing from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) mostly get redirected to Manthali Airport due to increased air traffic. Consequently, in these months, our guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu around 12:30 am for a five-hour drive to Manthali. From Manthali, a brief 20-minute flight will take you to Lukla. In contrast, during other months (December, January, February, June, July, and August), the direct flight duration from Kathmandu to Lukla is around 40 minutes.
If you want to bypass the drive to Manthali, booking a helicopter to Lukla is a convenient alternative. However, this option incurs an additional cost of approximately 550 USD when shared among five persons.
As you deboard at Lukla Airport, the excitement builds up, and you will head to the charming Chaurikharka village and descend to Dudhkoshi Ghat (2,530m / 8,300ft) before reaching Phakding. This first day of the trek is short and enjoyable, providing an opportunity for acclimatization. You can explore local monasteries, like Rimishung Monastery, during your spare time and prepare for the upcoming adventurous trekking days.
Trek from Phakding (2,650m /8,562ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)
From Phakding, you will traverse the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and meander through enchanting forests and small Sherpa settlements. After Monjo Village, you will reach the Sagarmatha National Park checkpost, where we will register our permits before reaching Namche Bazaar (3,440m). Namche is a bustling mountain town nestled in the heart of the Khumbu region that welcomes you with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and is a gateway to the Everest trekking experience.
Rest day and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Namche is a perfect town to acclimatize. There are plenty of activities you can participate in. We encourage you to explore vibrant Namche streets, adorned with cafes, souvenir shops, and the Sherpa architecture. You can also hike to Everest View Hotel to see Mt. Everest. There are other hiking options, such as Syangboche Airport, Hillary School, Khumjung, and Khunde villages. The Khumjung Monastery is believed to house a Yeti scalp.
Trek from Namche (3,440m / 11,285ft) to Tengboche (3875m/ 12,713ft)
You will leave Namche early morning and trek inside the Sagarmatha National Park alongside trekkers, porters, and yaks. From the path, you can get views of several mountains such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest. The trails are ridden with several thrilling suspension bridges. You will traverse several steep rocky sections to arrive at Tengboche. If you want, you can also visit the Tengboche monastery.
Trek from Tengboche (3875m/ 12,713ft) to Dingboche (4410m/ 14,468ft)
We leave Tengboche early morning and head to Dingboche, passing through many chortens, mani walls, and small settlements, including Mt. Ama Dablam. As you near Dingboche, you will see a field surrounded by stone walls. These walls protect crops such as barley, potatoes, and buckwheat from wild animals and cold winds.
Acclimatization at Dingboche (4,410m/ 14,468ft)
You will have gained a significant altitude as you reach Dingboche. Hence, it is a perfect day to acclimatize at this Sherpa village. There are no roads to this village, only trails, which locals use to transport daily necessities via yaks and mules. You can rest, hydrate, and soak in the beauty. If you want, you can hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m), from where you can view Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Trek from Dingboche (4,410m/ 14,468ft) to Lobuche (4,910m/ 16,108ft)
After a rest day at Dingboche, it is time to trek further - to Lobuche. You will be hiking northwest above the Pheriche Village and to Dugla, a small settlement. Dugla offers fantastic views of Ama Dablam, and you should certainly enjoy those. From Dugla, you will continue on a zig-zag path northwards on the Khumbu Glacier moraine to the Thukla Pass, famous for a memorial dedicated to those who perished on this rough terrain. As you move forward for about an hour, you will reach Lobuche.
Trek from Lobuche (4,930m / 16,175ft) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) and back to Gorak Shep (5,185m / 17,010ft)
Today will be the most significant day on your trek or even in your life as you will reach the Everest base Camp. After breakfast, you will follow the Khumbu Glacier moraines and reach Gorak Shep, the nearest settlement from Everest Base Camp. You will leave your belongings at Gorak Shep and trek to the Everest Base Camp. As you stand on the Everest Base Camp, you will feel overwhelmed with emotions as you have toiled for several days to reach this place. From EBC, you can enjoy the grand views of some of the tallest mountains on Earth. After taking many pictures and soaking in the views, you will return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Trek to Kala Patthar (5,555m / 18,208ft) Viewpoint from Gorak Shep (5,185m / 17,010ft) and then to Dzongla (4,855m / 15,930ft)
To enjoy the views of Everest and the surrounding peaks, early in the morning, you will wake up at Gorak Shep and head to Kala Patthar. From Kala Patthar, you will enjoy the views of dawn breaking behind the world’s tallest mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The views look otherworldly and beyond words. After enjoying the views of your content, you will return to Gorak Shep for breakfast, rest for a while, and descend to Dzongla.
The trails from Gorak Shep to Dzongla are challenging and kindle your adventurous spirit. You will traverse along the glaciers, keeping the Khumbu Glacier to the left, and arrive at Lobuche. From Lobuche, the left route takes you to Dingboche, and the right takes you to Dzongla. You will take the right route.
Trek from Dzongla (4,855m / 15,930ft) via Cho La Pass (5420m / 17,783ft) and then to Thangnak (4,700m / 15,400ft)
After breakfast, you will leave Dzongla and head to Cho La Pass. The trails are quite challenging, but the views are equally stunning. After the rugged journey through the Cho La Pass, you enter a serene valley and continue on the trails, enjoying the pristine landscapes until you arrive at Thangnak.
Trek from Thangnak (4,700m / 15,400ft) to Gokyo (4,790m / 15,584ft)
The trail to Gokyo leads through rugged terrain, weaving past glacial moraines and rocky landscapes. Along the journey, the breathtaking vistas of towering peaks and pristine alpine lakes captivate the senses. As trekkers ascend, the allure of Gokyo's turquoise waters becomes increasingly palpable. Upon reaching Gokyo, you will be greeted by the warmth of local teahouses, offering a haven of rest and rejuvenation. As the day draws to a close, the ethereal beauty of Gokyo casts its spell, leaving an indelible impression of tranquility and wonder on all who journey through its majestic realms.
Gokyo to Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,400m / 17,814ft) and to Machhermo (4,470m / 14,450ft)
We set off early from Gokyo and gradually ascend towards Gokyo Ri. The trail, well-marked and steady, leads you to the Gokyo Ri summit at approximately 5,360 meters (17,585 feet). From this vantage point, you can get a breathtaking panoramic view of Gokyo Lakes, surrounding glaciers, and towering peaks like Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. After soaking in the views, you will descend to the base of Ngozumpa Glacier and further through the juniper bushes to the stunning Gokyo Lakes. After crossing the Gokyo Lakes, you will arrive at Machhermo.
Trek from Machhermo (4,470m / 14,450ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)
We bid farewell to the tranquil village of Machhermo and set out towards Namche Bazaar through rocky trails, verdant forests, and meandering rivers. Along the way, be mesmerized by the majestic Himalayan vistas and the serene beauty of the surroundings. As you trek, you can witness the rich cultural heritage while passing by traditional Sherpa villages adorned with colorful prayer flags and intricately carved mani stones.
As you approach Namche Bazaar, you will again catch the views of this bustling market. At Namche Bazaar, the trek nears its closure, so we encourage you to soak in the lively atmosphere. You can explore the narrow alleyways, lined with shops, restaurants, and even pubs.
Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285 ft) to Lukla (2,850 m / 9,350 ft)
The trek is almost over. You will leave the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar and towards Lukla. You will follow the paved stones until the foothill and follow the same route you used at the beginning of the trek. After about an hour of trekking, you will get the final views of Mt Everest. The path will mostly be downhill and often alongside the Dudh Koshi River as you trek through smaller Sherpa villages and a few suspension bridges. The path slightly ascends before reaching Lukla, the last town in the trek region.
Fly back to Kathmandu/Manthali from Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft). (Return to Kathmandu)
You will return to Kathmandu on this day. The flight path from Lukla varies depending on the trekking season. During March, April, May, September, October, or November, it's likely you'll fly to Manthali, from where we'll drive you to Kathmandu. However, in December, January, February, June, July, and August, you will fly from Lukla to Kathmandu directly.
For those wishing to bypass the Lukla-Manthali-Kathmandu route, helicopter bookings are available at an additional cost of approximately 550 USD per person, assuming five individuals split the fare.
Your return journey to Kathmandu will be a comfortable one, providing ample time for you to reflect on your trek to Everest Base Camp. You might also have the anticipation of reuniting with loved ones at home. Later in the day, Discovery World Trekking will arrange a farewell dinner for you in Kathmandu to commemorate your memorable adventure.
What is included in this trek package?
Transportation
- Round-trip flight tickets for Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla (Kathmandu–Manthali–Kathmandu travel via shared vehicle)
- Private transportation to and from Kathmandu Airport and your hotel.
Accommodations
- Total 14 nights (Five nights - Lukla, Phakding, and Namche (3 Nights), rooms with a private attached bathroom. Nine nights - standard room at Tengboche, Dingboche(2 nights), Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Dzongla, Thangnak, Gokyo, and Machhermo
Food
- Standard full-board meals (15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners), with one main course per meal.
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day
Guide and Porter
- Experienced government-licensed English-speaking Discovery World Trekking trek leader (12 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter to help trekkers luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers, 9 kg weight limit per trekker)
- Guides and porters costs, their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight, and necessary equipment
Trek Permits and Expenses
- Sagarmatha National Park entry permit fee
- Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
Medical Assistance
- Rescue operation arrangements in case of health emergencies (funded by travel insurance)
- Medical kits includes an oximeter to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels in high altitudes.
Souvenir
- Company's T-shirt & cap
Farewell
- Discovery World Trekking’s certificate of appreciation after the successful trek
- Farewell dinner after trek completion
Benefits
- Sleeping bags and down jackets , duffle bag (one for every two trekkers) if you do not have your own
- Free excess luggage storage at the Discovery World Trekking store for the duration of the trek.
What is excluded in this trek package?
International Flight
- International flight airfare
Accommodations
- All accommodations in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, and early return from trekking.
Food
- All meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
- Extra night meals in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, and early return from trekking.
Guide and Porter
- Tips for guides and porters
Visa
- On-arrival visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport- (15 days - 30 USD, 30 days- 50 USD)
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance, which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
Personal Expenses
- Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boiled/bottled water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters, etc
- Personal clothing and gear
Other Expenses
- Excess baggage charges during the trip (Limit is 9 kg per Person)
- Additional costs due to delays beyond our control. For example, landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
- All the costs and expenses that are not listed in - "What is included in the Everest Base Camp - Chola Pass - Gokyo Trek package?" above
Route Map
Notes
The provided itinerary is a general guideline and may require adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, like unstable weather or lodge unavailability. However, such alterations are rare.
If alterations are inevitable, the trek leader will take the best possible rerouting decision after consulting all group members. You cannot hold us responsible for such changes.
Moreover, we are flexible with trek dates to accommodate your schedule. If the departure dates do not suit you, let us know. We look forward to guiding you in the Everest region.
Equipment list for Everest Base Camp - Chola Pass - Gokyo Trek
We request you carry only the basics during the trek. You can store your extra luggage at the Discovery World Trekking store for free. Please remember that we assign a porter for two trekkers, and the weight limit is 9 kg per trekker (18 kg max carrying limit for a porter).
We recommend you team with a trekking partner and pack your things together in a duffle bag of over sixty liters capacity. Here is the packing list to help you pack.
Head
- Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
- Beanie (for warmth)
- Buff or neck gaiter (for sun protection and warmth)
- Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
- High SPF sunscreen
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Face wipes
Upper Body
- Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
- Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
- Fleece jacket and down jacket **
- Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- Raincoat
- Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
- Polypropylene underwear (four)
Hands
- Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
- Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)
Lower Body
- Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
- Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Thermal leggings or long underwear (for colder weather)
- Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)
Feet
- Thick Wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks (4 pairs)
- Waterproof, ankle-supportive broken-in full hiking boots (with good traction)
- Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)
- Gaiters (for protection against mud, water, and debris)
- Crampons/spikes
Toiletries
- Biodegradable bar soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Medium-size drying towel
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
- Toilet paper (In a Ziplock bag)
- Feminine hygiene products
- Travel-sized shampoo
- Nail clippers
- Small mirror
Backpacks
- Duffle bag (capacity of over 60 liters) for porters** (One duffle bag for two trekkers).
- Backpack or daypack (capacity 20-30 liters) for yourself
Accessories
- Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
- Water bottle or bladder with a capacity of at least 2 liters (insulated for cold weather)
- Water purification system (tablets, filter, or UV purifier)
- Sleeping bag (-10 to -15 degrees is the best)**
Extra Items
- Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
- Extra batteries or rechargeable power bank (for charging devices)
- Two-pin charging plug
- Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Diamox)
- Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
- Few passport-size photos
- Passport photocopies
- Notebook and pen
- Binoculars
- Swiss army knife or multi-tool (with scissors, can opener, etc.)
**We can provide you with a (used, nonwaterproof) duffle bag, (used) down jacket, and (used) sleeping bagif you do not have your own.
Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek Information
Arrival, Welcome, and Trek Start
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will receive you and take you to your hotel in a private vehicle, ensuring a smooth transition into Kathmandu.
On departure day, we’ll pick you up and transport you to Kathmandu or Manthali Airport, depending on the trekking season, as flights may be rerouted due to seasonal traffic congestion. Mostly, during March, April, May, October, and November, due to traffic congestion at the Kathmandu Airport, the flights to Lukla get rerouted from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. So, to catch an early morning flight from Manthali Airport to Lukla, we will pick you up at your hotel at around 12:30 am, and drive to Manthali. The flight from Manthali to Lukla lasts around 20 minutes.
In other months, you will fly directly to Lukla from Kathmandu, and the flight will last around forty minutes. Upon landing in Lukla, your trek to Phakding starts.
Accommodations
During this trek, you'll enjoy 14 nights in the best accommodations in trek regions. In Lukla, Phakding, and Namche, five nights are in private rooms with attached bathrooms, while the remaining nine nights feature twin-sharing rooms. Hot showers, electricity for recharge, and Wi-Fi are available along the trek at additional costs.
Please note that accommodation in Kathmandu is not included, allowing flexibility to choose based on your preferences and budget.
Meals
We provide 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners featuring local, Asian, and Western cuisine. All meals are on a full-board (main course) basis. Menu options vary depending on altitude, fewer options will be available at greater elevations. Since staying hydrated is important at high altitudes, we recommend different teas, garlic soup, and fresh vegetables. We advise avoiding non-veg items, dairy, and alcoholic and caffeinated drinks for your health. Note that hot, cold, and alcoholic drinks are not covered in this package.
Luggage
We provide porters to carry your luggage up to 9 kg. One porter carries luggage for every two trekkers. Hence, partner up with a fellow traveler and pack your things together in a duffle bag of over sixty liters. We recommend you carry only essential items and store excess luggage at your hotel or in our storage free of charge.
Facilities and Essentials
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Water
You can buy bottled water along the trek route, but, as some trek regions restrict plastic bottles. We recommend bringing a water bottle that you can fill with boiled/filtered water bought from tea houses. Further, we recommend you use water purification pills, which we can provide if you don’t have your own. We strongly advise against drinking from local water sources for health reasons.
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Communication
Internet access is available in lodges for an additional cost. You can buy a local SIM in Kathmandu, but depending on the network, the signals may not be strong enough in higher altitudes. We stay in contact with all our trek teams daily via the trek leader and on the mobile at least once a day.
Travel Essentials
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Visa
Foreign nationals, excluding Indians, require a visa to enter Nepal, which you can obtain on arrival at Kathmandu Airport or land border checkpoints. To apply for the visa, you’ll need a passport with six months of validity, a passport-size photo, and a visa fee. The fee for a 30-day visa is $50, payable upon arrival. For details visit: https://www.immigration.gov.np.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for the trek and should include coverage for medical treatment and helicopter evacuation up to the trek’s highest altitude (5,500 m). Please ensure your policy covers helicopter evacuation by calling your provider for confirmation.
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Currency Exchange
Nepal's currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). 1 USD = ~138. You can exchange your currency at banks or authorized money exchanges in Kathmandu. ATMs are also available for NPR withdrawals (typically at a 500 NPR fee for a withdrawal of 35,000 NPR). We recommend bringing cash in major currencies, and exchanging them in Kathmandu, as trek regions lack banking facilities.
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Extra Expenses
Although the trek package covers most expenses, you’ll need additional cash for meals and lodging in Kathmandu, visa fees, travel insurance, beverages, and personal expenses. Trek regions only accept Nepalese Rupees, and we suggest budgeting $15-$20 daily for these needs.
Trek Season and Weather Conditions
Our treks run year-round, but each season offers unique weather conditions. From January to February, you’ll experience the coldest period of the year, with temperatures dropping to -15°C and heavy snowfall across the trails.
As spring arrives in March and April, trekking conditions improve with warming temperatures and spectacular views of glaciers and landscapes, ranging from 18°C during the day to -12°C at night. May through June brings comfortable weather, ideal for trekking, with temperatures between 25°C and -5°C.
During July and August, the monsoon season ushers in heavy rains, particularly at lower altitudes, creating quieter trails but still offering manageable conditions with temperatures from 27°C to 5°C.
Clear skies and vibrant landscapes characterize September and October, with daytime temperatures around 20°C and nights dipping to 5°C. Finally, November and December mark the beginning of winter, bringing colder nights and snow-covered trails, yet rewarding you with crisp, clear skies and stunning views, with temperatures ranging from 18°C during the day to -10°C at night.
Typical Day
Each trek day brings a unique mix of trekking, sightseeing, and cultural immersion. A typical day starts with breakfast at around 7 a.m., followed by a 3-4 hour trek and lunch around noon. After lunch, you will rest for an hour and then trek briefly.
After reaching your destination, you're free to explore. We serve dinner around 6-7 p.m., then your guide will brief you about your next day’s plan. Then you can spend your time as you like, playing games, socializing, or learning Nepali words from our team.
Feedback and Trip Conclusion
On the last day of the trek, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner in Kathmandu and present you with a trek achievement certificate. We appreciate your feedback, as it helps us improve our services and reach other adventurers through platforms like TripAdvisor.
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Departure
On your departure day, we provide hotel-to-airport transfer services, ensuring a hassle-free journey to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Trek Bookings
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Private Treks
We offer private treks only with discounts for larger groups. We provide experienced guides and porters and ensure that each team has a guide and one porter for every two trekkers. For groups of more than 12, we provide an assistant guide.
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Safe Trek Bookings
We are a Nepal-government-authorized tour operator and members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). So, you can book treks with us confidently.
To confirm the trek booking, we require a 10% deposit, with the balance due upon arrival in Kathmandu. We offer multiple payment methods for convenience, including bank transfer, credit card, Wise, and Western Union. You can also pay in cash when you are in Nepal. We will also email you payment details. Please send us essential documents within a week of booking the trek.
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Last-Minute Bookings
For spontaneous adventurers, we accept last-minute bookings. For last payment bookings, you must clear the entire cost of the trek 24 hours before the intended trip departure. However, we can’t be responsible for delays or unavailability due to circumstances beyond our control, such as bad weather or lodge availability.
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Flexible Schedule
We recommend adding extra days to your trip to accommodate potential weather-related delays on flights to/ from Lukla. Helicopter bookings are available as alternatives, if necessary, but cost around $550 per person if five persons split the bill.
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Trip Extension
If you wish to extend your stay, we can offer various activities, from sightseeing in Kathmandu to wildlife safaris in Chitwan, or even additional treks.
DWT Family
Our highly skilled guides and Sherpas, who come from remote Himalayan regions, will accompany you, and our porters will handle the luggage. Our team members receive fair compensation, insurance, meals, and accommodation throughout the trek, and we ensure their safety and satisfaction, knowing that happy guides create happy clients.
Ecotourism Practices
We are committed to eco-friendly trekking practices and work with local groups to minimize environmental impact, including partnerships with the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) to ensure sustainable, balanced treks that benefit both travelers and the community.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is customary in Nepal, a way to express gratitude for service quality. You’re welcome to tip at the end of the trek based on the service, team size, and trip length. We suggest collective tipping as a team at the end of the trek.
FAQs For Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Gokyo Trek
General Information
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Guides & Support Staff
Accommodation and Facilities
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Health & Safety
Packing & Gear
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Transportation & Flights
Now Offering 100% Private Treks
Discover Nepal’s breathtaking trails at your own pace with our exclusive private treks. No strangers, no rushed schedules—just you, your adventure, and complete flexibility.