About Cho La Pass Trek
The Cho La Pass Trek is standing at an elevation of 5420 meters (17782 feet), which is one of the most thrilling and scenic route in the Everest region of Nepal. Cho La Pass offers a challenging yet rewarding high-altitude crossing for trekkers seeking the Khumbu region. This trek allows adventurer to experience diverse landscapes, from serene glacial lakes in Gokyo to the rugged terrain and panoramic Himalayan vistas atop the pass, including views of giants like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
The journey typically begins with a flight into Lukla, followed by a gradual ascent through traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and trekkers finally reach the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. Crossing the Cho La Pass itself requires navigating a steep, icy trail and sometimes involves the use of micro spikes or crampons, especially during colder months. The descent leads into the Dzongla valley, from where trekkers continue towards Lobuche and eventually to Everest Base Camp or Kala Patthar.
We set the Cho La Pass trek apart is the combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenges. Trekkers encounter glacial moraines, crevasses, and High Mountain passes while also getting the opportunity to learn about Sherpa culture and Buddhist tradition in remote villages and monasteries. While it is not a technical climb, the Cho La Pass demands good physical fitness, proper acclimatization, and preparation for unpredictable mountain weather. Overall, the Cho La Pass trek is an excellent choice for seasoned trekkers looking to experience a more adventurous and scenic alternative to the standard Everest Base Camp route.
Cho La Pass Trek Routes
The Cho La Pass trek is the high-altitude trekking route in the Khumbu region of Nepal, forming a dramatic connection between the Everest Base Camp (EBC) and the Gokyo Valley. The trek typically begins with a flight to Lukla, progressing through famous Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboch before heading towards Lobuche and Everest Base Camp. After visiting Everest Base Camp and the vantage point of Kala Patthar for sweeping views of Mount Everest, trekkers descend to Dzongla, where the trail diverges towards Cho La Pass. This section is more challenging due to the steep ascent and potential snow or ice, with the pass sitting at an elevation of 5420 meters (17782 feet).
Once over the pass, the route descends into the Gokyo Valley, leading to the tranquil, turquoise Gokyo Lake and the challenging hike up Gokyo Ri (5357 meters). The trail returns via Dole and Machhermo to rejoin the main Everest Base Camp route at Namche Bazaar before concluding back in Lukla. The Cho La Pass Trek is physically demanding and requires good acclimatization, but rewards trekkers with a rich combination of landscapes, cultures, and some of the most iconic views in the Everest Region.