All treksEverest region

Gokyo Valley Lake with Chola Pass Trek

A bigger Everest circuit linking the Gokyo lake basin with the Khumbu glacier side by crossing Chola Pass.

Duration

16 days

Difficulty

Challenging

Max altitude

5,420 m at Chola Pass

Best months

Mar-May, Oct-Nov

Route overview

This route is for trekkers who want a more demanding Everest journey. It combines Gokyo lakes, glacier walking, a high pass crossing, and the upper Khumbu corridor with extra attention to weather, pacing, and guide support.

Trail sequence

Lukla

Namche

Dole

Machhermo

Gokyo

Thagnak

Chola Pass

Dzongla

Lobuche

Namche

Lukla

Highlights

Gokyo lakes and Gokyo Ri panorama

Chola Pass crossing between Gokyo and Dzongla

Glacier views from both sides of the Everest region

Option to extend toward Everest Base Camp after the pass

Preparation

Build up to 4-6 hour hikes with a loaded daypack

Practice steady uphill pacing and stair climbs

Carry tested layers, rain protection, and broken-in boots

Plan an acclimatization buffer around high-altitude days

Be comfortable on long pass days with cold starts and uneven footing

Day-wise itinerary

Lukla to Phakding

2,610 m

Begin with an easy valley walk after the mountain flight.

Phakding to Namche Bazaar

3,440 m

Climb into Namche with the first clear high-peak sightings.

Acclimatization in Namche

3,880 m

Hike to viewpoints, check gear, and prepare for higher camps.

Namche to Dole

4,200 m

Turn toward the Gokyo valley through ridges and yak pasture.

Dole to Machhermo

4,470 m

Keep the day controlled to protect acclimatization.

Machhermo to Gokyo

4,790 m

Reach the lake basin and rest beside the water.

Gokyo Ri and move to Thagnak

5,357 m

Climb the viewpoint early, then cross toward the pass approach camp.

Cross Chola Pass to Dzongla

5,420 m

Start before dawn for the steep pass, moving as a tight guided group.

Dzongla to Lobuche

4,940 m

Recover with a shorter day and reconnect with the upper Khumbu route.

Lobuche to Pangboche

3,985 m

Descend past alpine settlements and regain more oxygen-rich air.

Pangboche to Namche

3,440 m

Walk through Tengboche and return to the main village hub.

Namche to Lukla

2,860 m

Complete the route with a final long walking day.

Similar routes