The Gokyo-Chola Pass with Everest Base Camp Trek, also known as the Everest Circuit Trek, is one of the most stunning and adventurous trekking routes in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Organized by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, this 20-day journey takes you into the very heart of the Himalayas, blending spectacular natural beauty with deep-rooted Sherpa culture. The trek begins in the vibrant capital city of Kathmandu and ascends through lush forests, picturesque villages, high alpine valleys, and sacred glacial lakes, eventually reaching the base of the world’s highest mountain—Mount Everest (8,848m).
What sets this trek apart is the route that passes through the serene Gokyo Valley, over the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m), and culminates at the awe-inspiring Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m) for some of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas. The Gokyo Lakes—a series of glacial blue lakes—are one of the major highlights, along with breathtaking views of four 8,000-meter giants: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The route forms a semi-circular loop that offers diverse scenery, from pristine lakes to towering peaks and ancient monasteries.
Best Time for Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trek
The best seasons for the Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). During spring, the trails come alive with blooming rhododendrons, and the weather is typically dry and stable, offering clear mountain views. The temperatures at higher elevations are cold but manageable, and this is also a great time to enjoy the cultural festivals that often take place in the lower valleys.
Autumn is considered the most ideal time for this trek due to its post-monsoon clarity. Skies are generally crystal clear, offering the best visibility of the Himalayan giants, and the weather is cool and pleasant for trekking. While it is possible to trek in winter (December to February), be prepared for extremely cold temperatures and potential snow blockages at high passes like Cho La. Monsoon (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rains, leeches, and landslides in the lower regions.
Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trekking Difficulty
The Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trek is classified as a challenging and strenuous trek, suitable for experienced trekkers or those with good physical conditioning and mental resilience. One of the most demanding aspects of this trek is crossing Cho La Pass at an altitude of 5,420 meters, which often involves navigating icy terrain, steep ascents, and potentially snowy or slippery conditions. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness as you spend extended time above 4,000 meters.
The trek covers a variety of terrain, from rocky trails and glacial moraines to suspension bridges and forest paths. While technical climbing skills are not necessary, previous trekking experience at high altitudes is highly recommended. With multiple days of 5-8 hour hikes, trekkers must be in good physical shape and prepared for sudden changes in weather. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures professional guides and acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to maximize safety and enjoyment.
Food and Accommodation for Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trek
During the trek, food and accommodation are provided in local teahouses—traditional lodges run by Sherpa families. These teahouses offer a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture while enjoying warm hospitality. Meals are typically hearty and designed to provide the necessary energy for trekking, with a standard menu that includes dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, fried rice, pasta, momos, and Tibetan bread.
Accommodation is basic but comfortable, usually consisting of twin-sharing rooms with communal dining areas. Higher up in the mountains, especially beyond Namche and towards Gokyo or Gorakshep, facilities become more limited, and rooms may not be heated. Bathrooms are often shared, and hot showers may come at an additional cost. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures quality teahouses are chosen based on hygiene, comfort, and service, helping you to refuel and rest well each day.
Why Choose Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trek
Choosing the Gokyo-Chola Pass with EBC Trek is choosing a journey that offers the best of the Everest region—the serenity of Gokyo Lakes, the thrill of crossing Cho La Pass, and the iconic destination of Everest Base Camp. Unlike the standard EBC trek, this route provides a circular trail, avoiding the same path on the way up and down, thus giving you a more enriched and less crowded experience. The views from Gokyo Ri and Cho La are often considered more spectacular than from the EBC trail alone, making this a must-do trek for photography lovers and mountain enthusiasts.
With Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, you're not just signing up for a trek—you’re joining a carefully curated Himalayan adventure with a team of seasoned guides, porters, and travel experts. The company is known for its personalized service, safety-first approach, and deep knowledge of the Khumbu region. Whether it’s managing logistics, ensuring proper acclimatization, or sharing stories of the local Sherpa culture, Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition elevates your trekking experience beyond expectations.
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Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you'll be received by one of our delegates and transferred to the respective hotel, upon reaching the hotel you'll get time to unwind and have lunch depending on the hours of your arrival or as your choice, and Stay overnight at the hotel.
We fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) which takes about 30 minutes. Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2640 m.) takes approximately three hours. We begin the trek from Lukla following a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi River. We descend a mountainside path that merges into our route to Everest, with views to a valley to our right; and at its far end, Kusum Kang (6367m.) We continue along a small path with many climbs and descents following the left bank of Dudh Koshi to Phakding. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.)for about 5 to 5 and half hours. On this day we trek and cross the river on high-suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo (2800m.) is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park which was set up to protect and preserve this fragile mountain environment. We then ascend quite steeply to Namche and along the way, if the weather is clear, catch a first glimpse of Mt Everest in the distance. We can also enjoy the view of Mt. Kusum Kangaru, Thamserku, Konde-Ri, and Tawache Peak. Stay overnight at the lodge.
The trekking, no matter easy or hard, puts strain on the body, so we'll take a day's rest at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and excursion around the places. For acclimatization, we can walk up to Khunde Hospital which was set up by the late Sir Edmund Hillary, or enjoy a one-hour walk to Syangboche (3800m.), where Everest View Hotel is situated above Namche's outstanding views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. we'll have dinner and stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3739m)for about 4 hours. From Namche the route heads west and the trail is almost level as we head up the Bhote Koshi Valley, once a popular trading route into Tibet. After descending to the Bhote Kosi the trail climbs steeply to Thame. From here there are good views of the peaks of Teng Kangpoche and Kwangde and to the north, Nangpa La, the pass leading to Tibet. Thame Gompa is situated above the village overlooking the valley and is the site for the spring celebrations of the Mani Rimdu festival. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Thame to Khumjung [3790m]for about 5 hours. We retrace our route back down the Bhote Kosi Valley towards Namche and branch off to follow a quiet trail to Khumjung. It is a picturesque village which also has its own Gompa at the top end of town. Here we have excellent views of Thamserku, Kantega, and Ama Dablam. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Khumjung to Dole (4040m)for about 5 hours. Soon after leaving Khumjung the trail climbs to a large chorten on top of a ridge. The trail then descends slightly towards Sanasa before ascending to Mongla (4000m.). From here, we can see panoramic views of various mountains. Our trail then steeply descends passing through Phortse Tenga and from there, the trail climbs steeply to Dole, through rhododendron and birch forest festooned with hanging mosses and lichens. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Dole to Machhermo (4410m) which takes about 3 hours. From Dole, we climb steadily along the side of the valley, where the small and thorny bushes give way to scrub juniper as the altitude increases. The trail passes many summer settlements. Ahead of we are excellent views of Cho Oyu, while back down the valley we can view the peaks of Kantega and Thamserku. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4750m)for about 4 hours. Today we head for the lakes at Gokyo. We follow a very scenic path to Pangka and then descend slightly. We then climb a steep rocky path inclining into the valley by the side of the glacier, passing the first of the holy lakes. We soon arrive at the second of the lakes, crossing the path that heads across the glacier to Cho La (5420m.). The third lake is known as Dudh Pokhari and on its eastern shore is the settlement of Gokyo. Walking by the side of the lake, the scenery is magnificent with the summits of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang reflected in its emerald green waters. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We take a day's rest at Gokyo and participate in excursions in and around Gokyo Valley. Gokyo is a trade center where the Sherpa people run lodges to provide services to trekkers. Gokyo is situated by the side of the Ngozumba glacier, the biggest glacier in Nepal. On this day we can also make a side trip to Firth Lake via Forth Lake. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek/climb from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5340m) and trek back to Thangna (4650m) via Gokyo village for about four and a half hours. Gokyo Ri looms above the village on the northern edge of the lake and we leave camp just after first light, following a steep path up the hillside. As we climb, the summits of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu slowly come into sight and the view from the summit of Gokyo Ri itself is one of the finest to be had in the Everest region. Some say it is even better than that from Kala Patthar. After lunch, it is a short walk to the village of Thangna, situated at the shore of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We trek from Thangna to Dzongla (4843m.) via Chola pass (5420m.)for about 5 and half hours. First, we ascend slightly along the valley towards Chola Pass. Most of the time the Chola pass is covered with blue ice giving us a chill feeling. Here, we can also enjoy the panoramic views of various mountains. The trail then descends steeply for an hour and then slightly descends to Dzongla. Stay overnight at the lodge.
We'll start our trek which begins to Gorakshep (5180m.) via Lobuche. The trail gently descends and ascends along with contours around the west side of Lobuche Khola providing some excellent views of the Ama-Dablam, Nuptse-Lhotse wall, and Everest Trail coming from the Pheriche meets at the Lobuche Khola some points as time and often we maintain our pace, We'll be on our feet for about 5 hours going through the trail while encountering numerous fascinating offerings of nature like nowhere else. The blend of the topography, weather, and cultural manifestation of people and their lifestyles is truly something that one can feel their time was worth utilizing to have a glance at.
We trek from Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp (5337m.) and back to Gorakshep for about four and a half hours. While trekking to Everest Base Camp we pass on a trail, which weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. During the spring season, we can meet expedition teams on their way to Everest Base Camp. On the return leg, we can take a higher route to get a spectacular view of the Khumbu icefall and numerous mountains. We return to Gorak Shep to stay overnight.
We trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and then to Pheriche (4250m.) for about 6 and half hours. Early morning climb to Kala Patthar (5545m.) to enjoy the view of the spectacular sunrise up over the mountains. From Kala Patthar, we have panoramic views of Mt. Everest and many other mountain peaks like Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Mt. Thamserku. The town of Pheriche is known as a windy town. Stay overnight at the lodge.
So just like any other day of our trip, we'll begin our day after breakfast and start to trek. We'll trek from Pheriche to Tengboche (3850m), which takes the time duration of around 4 hours. To reach Tengboche we'll be passing through Pangboche village, the village of Pangboche is known to have the highest permanent settlement throughout the year in the Khumbu region. After walking for around the estimated time duration of somewhere around 4 hours we'll be at our destination, Tangboche village. The village is a hub to the largest monastery in the region of Khumbu which too is a major element of attraction among the visitors whether they be domestic or international visitors. After arriving here we'll be visiting the monastery meandering around the locality and upon the completion of your scheduled activities, we'll be returning to the lodge which'll be facilitating the dinner and overnight stay service.
Today we'll begin our day by trekking from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3440m.)The trip takes the duration of somewhere about 4 hours. As we keep moving forward from Tengboche, the trail begins to descend steeply and then slightly towards Phunki Tenga (3250m.) following which we'll be crossing the river Dudh Koshi. Upon crossing the river we'll have a glimpse of the panoramic views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kusum Kangaru as we keep making our way ahead we'll Pass by several villages and numerous teashops after which the trail begins ascending steeply to Sanasa, a place or a hub where local Sherpa people sell Tibetan goods. Our trip of the day concludes here and we'll unwind and have dinner at a lodge and stay overnight there.
We trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886 m.) which takes about six hours. The last day of our trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla. The trek is pleasant, except for a few short uphill climbs and then down to the Bhote- Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb of 45 minutes will bring us to Lukla for our overnight stay.
we'll fly from Lukla to Kathmandu on an early morning flight back to Kathmandu takes about 35 minutes. Upon landing, we'll get to the hotel and prepare and check our requirements, our schedule for the rest of the day will be free hours during which shopping and street delicacies can be enjoyed and upon returning to the hotel dinner will be served.
So today is the last day here in Nepal. After a delightful breakfast, one of our members will be present to take your feedback regarding the trip and afterward, you'll be driven to the airport in a private ride three hours before the flight as per the flight regulations.
The trip to the Himalayan nation did give me truly unforgettable memories and the best experience of travel.
The very nation of Nepal is unique in all aspects from other nations around the world. The mountain ranges and valleys along with the plains make it feel like a world within itself. It ha multiple world heritage from cultural to Natural ones. The trip to Nepal was worth the visit.
What a wonderful trip it was. To be honest some points led down, but it was too minimal to point out the fault in front of the unmatchable beauty of Nepal. For anyone who hasn't visited or has in their bucket list or are willing to visit Nepal, I'd personally recommend them to get in touch with this beautiful side of nature that Nepal carries.
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For the Gokyo-Chola Pass with Everest Base Camp Trek, two primary permits are required. The first is the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, which grants entry into the protected national park area where Mt. Everest lies. This permit helps support conservation efforts and the maintenance of trekking trails. The second is the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, introduced in place of the old TIMS card. It is specifically required for entering the Khumbu region and must be obtained in Lukla or Monjo. These permits are mandatory and will be checked at various checkpoints along the trail. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition takes care of all necessary permit arrangements to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
The Gokyo-Chola Pass with Everest Base Camp Trek is considered strenuous and challenging, especially when compared to the traditional Everest Base Camp trail. The altitude gain is significant, with long trekking days that can last 6 to 8 hours, and you will be traversing high passes such as Cho La (5,420m), which involves steep ascents and sometimes icy conditions. It is highly recommended that trekkers have a good level of physical fitness and some prior trekking experience. You should also consult a doctor, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, and understand the importance of acclimatization. Awareness of symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and taking necessary rest days, like those built into this itinerary, are critical for safety and enjoyment.
The best seasons for undertaking the EBC with Gokyo-Chola Pass Trek are during spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to December). These periods offer the clearest skies, most stable weather, and the most rewarding mountain views. During spring, the landscape is enhanced by blooming rhododendrons and vibrant greenery, while autumn offers crisp air and incredible visibility post-monsoon. While it is also possible to trek in early February or early September, these months can come with unpredictable weather patterns, so they require flexibility and extra preparation. Monsoon season (June to August) is generally avoided due to slippery trails and poor visibility.
Yes, Wi-Fi and internet access are available on much of the route, but the service is limited, slow, and sometimes unreliable, particularly at higher altitudes like Gokyo, Gorakshep, and Lobuche. Many teahouses offer Wi-Fi through services like Everest Link or local SIM-based data, usually for an additional charge. However, due to the remote and mountainous nature of the region, infrastructure for internet connectivity is difficult to maintain, so connections may drop frequently or be too slow for streaming or video calls. It's best to use internet only for essential communication and to inform loved ones of your safety. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition recommends downloading offline maps and informing your emergency contacts about possible communication delays.
Accommodation throughout the Gokyo-Chola Pass and EBC trek route is provided mainly in teahouses and lodges, which are basic but comfortable, offering the essentials needed for a good night's rest. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with simple beds and blankets. In higher altitudes such as Gokyo, Dzongla, and Gorakshep, facilities become more basic due to logistical challenges. Bathrooms are mostly shared, and hot showers, where available, usually cost extra. However, even in remote areas, Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures you stay in teahouses known for good hygiene, warm hospitality, and hearty meals. Availability during peak seasons can be limited, so booking ahead or trekking with a company like Plan Nepal helps secure reliable accommodation.
Yes, altitude sickness (AMS) is a real risk on this trek due to the significant time spent above 4,000 meters. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. The Cho La Pass and Gokyo Ri are particularly high points where symptoms may become more pronounced. To mitigate these risks, it’s important to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and take acclimatization days seriously—like the rest days planned at Namche Bazaar and Gokyo in this itinerary. Medications like Diamox can help prevent AMS, but they should only be taken after consultation with a doctor. Guides from Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition are trained to recognize early signs of altitude sickness and will assist you in descending or getting medical attention if needed.
While the trek is challenging, it is possible for determined beginners to complete it successfully—provided they are physically fit, mentally prepared, and have adequate preparation. This includes building stamina through cardio exercises, hiking practice with a loaded backpack, and possibly trying shorter treks beforehand. Beginners should also spend time learning about high-altitude trekking, proper gear use, and acclimatization. Trekking with a professional company like Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition greatly improves your chances of success, as you’ll have experienced guides, porters, and a well-structured itinerary with rest and acclimatization days included.
Meals during the trek are offered in teahouses, with a surprisingly varied selection given the remote location. The staple dish is dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), which is nutritious and offers unlimited refills in many lodges. Other common meals include noodle soup, fried rice, pasta, momos (dumplings), chapati with curry, boiled potatoes, and even pancakes and porridge for breakfast. Higher-altitude lodges may offer a smaller menu, but Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures you get hygienic, high-energy meals at every stop. While meat is available in some places, it’s generally advised to stick to vegetarian meals for safety, as refrigeration can be inconsistent at higher elevations.
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this trek, especially one that covers high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters and includes emergency helicopter evacuation. The trek passes through remote and high-altitude areas, and in the event of injury, illness, or altitude sickness, air evacuation may be the only way to receive medical attention. Insurance also provides coverage for trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected travel issues. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition strongly recommends securing your insurance before departure and making sure it clearly covers the trekking regions and altitudes you will be visiting.
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,399 |
| 2 - 5 | $1,199 |
| 6 - 12 | $1,150 |
| 13 - 20 | $1,120 |
