Everest Chola Pass Trek-17 Days

Planning a trek in the Everest region? The Everest Chola Pass Trek promises an unforgettable adventure—covering iconic sights like Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the dramatic Cho La Pass. It’s a journey that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and a few challenging climbs, all in a 17-day package that’s suited for physically prepared explorers seeking authentic Himalayan experiences.

What we love about this trek is how it balances stunning mountain scenery with rich Sherpa culture. The trek’s itinerary offers a perfect mix of acclimatization days, scenic viewpoints, and challenging passes. Plus, the local guides and porters help make this a smooth adventure despite the high altitude and rugged terrain. On the flip side, the trek involves a considerable physical effort and altitude gain, so it’s best suited for those with good fitness levels. If you’re looking for an immersive, less touristy way to experience Everest’s grandeur, this tour might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Authentic Himalayan Experience: Combines classic routes with off-the-beaten-path areas like Gokyo Valley and Cho La Pass.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides (notably Ang Pemba) enhance safety and cultural understanding.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and more from Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar.
• High-Altitude Adventure: Challenging passes like Cho La (5368m) test your endurance and resolve.
• Cultural Encounters: Sherpa villages and monasteries give a glimpse into local traditions.
• Excellent Value: For $2,100, the trip includes flights, accommodations, permits, and comfortable lodge stays—covering most essentials.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1 & 2: From Kathmandu to Lukla, then Phakding

Your adventure kicks off in Kathmandu, where a representative greets you and transfers you to your hotel. The next morning, you fly to Lukla—a highlight in itself, with stunning mountain views during the brief flight. The tiny airport is surrounded by rugged peaks, reminding you that the real adventure begins here. From Lukla, it’s a 3-4 hour trek along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding. Expect lush forests, the sound of rushing water, and plenty of photo stops.

Day 3 & 4: Into the Heart of Sherpa Land—Namche Bazaar

Walking from Phakding to Namche Bazaar takes you through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests. The trail is gentle but filled with impressive mountain vistas and wildlife spotting opportunities. Arriving in Namche, you’ll find a lively town, perfect for acclimatization. Our favorite part? The optional hike to Everest View Hotel, which offers a sweeping panorama of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. As one reviewer mentioned, this day is essential to help your body prepare for the elevation climb ahead.

Day 5 & 6: Dole and Machhermo—Into the Higher Himalayas

The trek continues past Dole, where trekkers often report feeling the high altitude effects—be prepared for cold, dry air and the need for proper acclimatization. From Dole, it’s on to Machhermo, a Sherpa village with interesting cultural sights and a quiet atmosphere. The routes through these areas are marked by striking mountain views and the chance to observe Sherpa lifestyle up close.

Day 7 & 8: Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri

Reaching Gokyo Lakes is a highlight—these crystal-clear lakes reflect the surrounding peaks like a giant mirror. The trek to Gokyo offers unique scenery, less crowded than the Everest Base Camp route. Climbing Gokyo Ri at 5360m provides jaw-dropping vistas of Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. One reviewer raved about this climb: “The views from Gokyo Ri are astonishing, with the highest mountains all in one frame.”

Day 9 & 10: Thagnag and Crossing the Cho La Pass

The journey to Thagnag involves traversing snowfields and glaciers, making it a more adventurous day. The real challenge comes on Day 10, when you ascend the Cho La Pass (5368m). From the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and others, which one reviewer described as “very impressive.” Traversing the glacier requires caution but adds a sense of achievement.

Day 11 & 12: Lobuche, Gorakshep, and Everest Base Camp

Descending from Cho La, you’ll trek to Lobuche and eventually reach Gorakshep, where you’ll overnight before heading to Everest Base Camp. Reaching the base camp is a dream for many, and the experience of standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak is unforgettable. Expect to see climbers preparing for their summit and hikers soaking in the awe-inspiring surroundings. One reviewer called it “a moment that words can’t do justice.”

Day 13: Kala Patthar and Pangboche

Early morning, you’ll climb Kala Patthar (5,545m), one of the best viewpoints for Everest—featuring close-up views of Everest itself. After soaking in the scenery, you descend along the trail to Pangboche, a charming Sherpa village known for its monastery and unique culture. The landscape here is stark and breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks everywhere.

Day 14 & 15: Return to Namche and Lukla

The trek back takes you through familiar villages, allowing for reflection and more Sherpa cultural encounters. As one reviewer noted, “Touching base in Namche is a good chance to reconnect with loved ones via Wi-Fi and share your adventure.” The final trek to Lukla offers a mix of rugged trail and scenic beauty, culminating in a celebration in Lukla’s lively bazaar.

Day 16 & 17: Returning to Kathmandu and Farewell

A scenic morning flight brings you back to Kathmandu, a moment to relax or explore the city’s sights and markets. The trip wraps up with a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant, complete with cultural performances. The last day includes a transfer to the airport, leaving you with wonderful memories and perhaps some plans for your next Himalayan adventure.

Why This Trek Offers Real Value

At $2,100 per person, this package covers most essentials—flights, permits, accommodations, meals, and guiding services. The inclusion of a trekkers information system permit and Khumbu Valley fees simplifies the planning, while the experienced guides (like the highly praised Ang Pemba) help you navigate high-altitude challenges safely. The logistics are well-arranged, with private airport transfers and comfortable lodge stays, making the rough terrain feel manageable.

Compared to other options, this trek offers a balance of comfort and adventure. The lodge-based accommodations keep you close to local culture and give you a chance to socialize with fellow travelers, while the guided support ensures safety and local insights. It’s especially good for those wanting a comprehensive Everest experience that is both authentic and well-organized.

Practical Considerations: What to Expect

The trek covers 17 days, with considerable walking each day—some days involve ascents up to 5,368 meters, so good physical fitness is essential. The routes involve rocky paths, snowfields, and high-altitude passes, which can be physically demanding but incredibly rewarding.

Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are included, but travelers should be prepared for possible delays due to weather—something common in mountain flying. The itinerary includes trekkers’ meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast), with extra expenses in Kathmandu for additional meals or personal items. While most accommodation is in lodges, some moments can be cold and basic, so packing appropriate gear is crucial.

The guides and porters (one porter for every two trekkers) are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the journey more comfortable. As one reviewer shared, “Our guide Ang Pemba was really nice and would recommend him to anybody.” Their local knowledge adds depth to the experience, offering insights into Sherpa traditions and mountain lore.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Trek Perfect For?

This trek is a fantastic choice for adventurous travelers with good fitness levels who want more than just a typical Everest Base Camp experience. It’s ideal if you appreciate authentic mountain culture and enjoy panoramic views, challenging passes, and remote lakes. The mix of high-altitude climbs, scenic vistas, and Sherpa villages makes it an all-encompassing Himalayan adventure.

While physically demanding, the tour provides excellent support and well-organized logistics, making it accessible for those willing to push their limits. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, authentic Everest trek that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and an invigorating challenge, this 17-day journey could be your perfect match.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is physically demanding due to high altitudes and challenging passes, it’s best suited for travelers with good physical fitness and some trekking experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers airport transfers, Kathmandu hotel stays, all meals during trekking, flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, permits (TIMS and Khumbu Valley fees), lodge accommodations, guides, porters, and a farewell dinner.

Are flights from Kathmandu to Lukla reliable?
Flights are included, but mountain weather can cause delays. It’s a common part of high-altitude travel in Nepal, so flexibility is advisable.

What should I pack for this trek?
Pack warm clothing, layered gear for changing weather, sturdy hiking boots, and essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good camera. The lodges provide bedding but bring your personal toiletries and snacks if desired.

How physically demanding is the trek?
Expect daily walks of several hours with significant elevation gains—some climbs up to 5368m, so good fitness and acclimatization days are built into the itinerary.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so modifications may be possible—discuss your preferences with the tour provider in advance.

Is there internet access during the trek?
Wi-Fi is available in Namche Bazaar and some other villages, allowing for occasional connectivity to share your adventures.

This Everest Chola Pass Trek offers a rare opportunity to combine adventure, culture, and extraordinary mountain views in one well-organized package. Whether you seek to push your limits or simply marvel at the Himalayas’ grandeur, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.