Chola Pass Trek

Explore the major UNESCO world heritage sites of the Kathmandu valley which include, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath. Marvel at the architectural design of these buildings and visit Kathmandu Durbar Square. After visiting these sites, return to your hotel. You can also make final preparations for the trek on the remainder of the day. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

An early morning flight awaits us today and it leads us to Lukla, which is often called the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival in Lukla, we collect all our trekking equipment and walk on the trail towards Phakding. The trail provides a picturesque view of the Mount Khumbila (5761m) as we continue heading downwards until we reach Phakding. Overnight stay at Phakding.

The trail today leads us through Pine forests and later takes north up the Bengkar valley. We go along the Dudh Koshi River and cross Monjo before arriving at the entrance of the Sagarmatha National Park. As we cross the suspension bridges, we go through the Jorsalle village. As we indulge in climbing some steep trails, we reach the biggest settlement of this region, Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.

As today is an acclimatization day, we’ll mostly indulge in roaming the town premises rather than heavy trekking. You can hike up the Everest View Hotel to witness the dramatic view of Mt. Everest (8848m), and others in the Everest range. Khumjung and Khunde villages are also perfect for learning about Sherpa culture and lifestyle prevalent in the Khumbu Valley. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.

The trail is initially easy but a steep trail follows it and heads towards the Tengboche village. This village consists of the Tengboche Monastery which is the biggest in the Everest region. From the monastery, we can observe the amazing view of the mountains of the Khumbu region and numerous mountains in the Everest massif as well. After visiting the monastery, we head to our lodge in the Tengboche village. Overnight stay at Tengboche.

The trail passes lush forests and birch trees. We can observe the scenes of the Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8414m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) as we go on a downhill trail and cross the Imja River to reach Pangboche. After visiting the Pangboche Monastery, we walk through the Imja valley and head upwards to reach Dingboche. Overnight stay at Dingboche.

Another day for acclimatization!  This day involves less trekking and more resting. We can climb the ridge that sits behind the village to observe mountains like Lhotse (8414m), Makalu (8463m), and Cho Oyu (8188m). To the North West, we can mountains that rise above the Khumbu Khola valley. You can even explore the village premises and try local cuisine. Overnight stay at Dingboche.

As we trek along the valley floor, we cross Dughla and Pheriche. The trek gains a bit of an altitude so, to prevent any mishaps, we tread carefully along the challenging path. We will go through rocky paths that are filled with snow and sparse vegetation. The huge peaks of the Khumbu region will keep us company throughout the trek. After a few hours of trekking, we reach Lobuche. Overnight stay at Lobuche.

As we cross some meadows, we can observe the magic of the Khumbu glacier. Straight ahead lies Kalapatthar, which is regarded by many as the best vantage point to observe the Everest region. We arrive at Gorakshep, and we head out towards the Everest Base Camp. The uphill trail is taxing, and after battling through the rugged terrain we arrive at the Everest Base Camp and enjoy views of the Khumbu glacier. Overnight stay at Everest Base Camp.

The walk along the snowy terrain is pretty taxing and frigid. We are blessed with sights of peaks like Lingtren and Khumbutse ranges, and even the mighty Mount Everest (8848m) at times. Upon arrival in Kala Patthar, we observe the drama of the entire Khumbu region and later go on a descending road which leads to Dzongla. After battling the steep trail, we arrive at Dzongla where we can catch glimpses of mud houses. Overnight stay at Dzongla.

Today is going to be very tough days of the entire trip. After early breakfast, we start our trekking going to cross the Chola Pass (5370m), it is not difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on trails. But once we made a top, the views of Ama Dablam, Kantaiega, Thamserku, Cholatse, Taboche and more other mountains on the Gokyo side. We need to pass through some crevasses before we reach to Thannak. Overnight stay at Thannak.

After breakfast we start our trekking, today will be a short hike as we crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier (the longest glacier in Nepal), shifting trail, and some frozen lakes. At the same time, you will explore Dudh Pokhari, the largest lake in the region, with the numbers of 6 lakes. The lake is beautiful, and it offers magnificent views of the Mountains. The panorama of the Himalayas will be well worth the journey and enjoying the endearing moments, wee head to Gokyo Village. The Gokyo village stands aside from the third lake- Gokyo. Overnight stay at Gokyo.

The hike to the summit of the Gokyo Ri (5360m) is strenuous and may take a while. From the trail, we can see the scenery of the Gokyo village, and on the edge, Cholatse (6335m) and the Ngozumpa glacier decorate the landscapes.  After witnessing these mountains, we trek down on a descending trail that leads us to Dhole. The downhill trail is steep so take great care. Overnight stay at Dhole.

The trek initially takes us through the rocky landscape. The path is mostly downhill and involves walking along the Dudh Koshi River. The pristine river is soothing and we will cross numerous suspension bridges along with crossing through several monasteries. We arrive at Lukla where we shall spend the remainder of the day. Overnight in Lukla.

From Lukla, get on an airplane and head towards Kathmandu. The fight lasts for about 30 minutes and you can see the beautiful mountains of the Khumbu region. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner with the company. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Today is a free day which is mostly held for contingencies. If the trek is not interrupted by any unforeseen situations like flight delay and bad weather, this day is spent in Kathmandu and it involves taking a quick tour around the city. Enjoy a delicious dinner that is hosted by the company and say goodbye to everyone. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.