Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek - 22 Days

Day 01- Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you need to accomplish your entry/visa formalities. You will then be received by a representative from Marron Treks and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Welcome drinks will be served at the hotel, followed by a quick pre-trip meeting. You can then spend the remaining time resting or as you please. In the evening you can stroll around the vicinity of your hotel just to get the feel of this wonderful city. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast  included.

 

Day 02- Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

After breakfast, hop in to our transport vehicle and head off for a guided tour to the renowned historical and cultural landmarks of Kathmandu. You will be visiting the sites like - Pashupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square. All these sites have been listed in the UNESCO world cultural heritage list. After the entertaining and informative tour, drive back to the hotel. You can spend the rest of the time as you wish or probably preparing for the next day’s flight to Lukla and the trek that commences on the very day. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast  included.
 

Day 03- Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840m /45 minutes) and trek from Lukla to Phakding (2610m / 3-4 hrs)

We take an early morning flight Lukla after breakfast. In about 45 minutes, we land at the Tenjing Hillary airport in Lukla, picturesquely surrounded by mountains. These 45 minutes on board is going to be the best aerial journey you have had so far. We now meet up with our trekking crew and get acquainted to each other. After some unpacking and arrangements, we then proceed for our trek through the village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. Chaurikharka School, Chablung, Tharo Koshi, Ghat etc are some of the sites that entice you along the trail. On reaching Phakding, we have our lunch and then if interested, can go on a short hike to the nearby monastery. This could help getting acclimatized to the high elevation. Overnight at teahouse in Phakding; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m/ 5 - 6hrs)

The trail leads us along the Dudh Koshi river, through the pine forests and many suspension bridges, including the very famous, Hillary Suspension Bridge. The route then ascends straight up beyond a waterfall, from where we get a breathtaking view of Mt. Thamserku (6618 m). Advancing further, we come to a check post which also happens to be the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. As we continue our ascent through the forests and bridges, we approach the confluence of Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi Rivers. Trudging up further for about 2 hours brings us to Chautari (resting place), wherefrom we can relish the splendid sight of the Mt. Everest, almost belittling the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. Passing through one last settlement, the Jorsale village, we ultimately reach Namche Baazar in about 2 hours. Namche Bazaar is the administrative center of the Khumbu region and is also the gateway to the Mount Everest. Overnight at teahouse in Namche Bazaar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 05: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar; Visit Namche Gompa (3440m)

This extra day at Namche Bazaar has been set aside to get acclimatized for the steeper climbs in the days ahead. So, just to ensure that we get accustomed to the thinning air, we can spend the day exploring the market at Namche Bazaar which reflects the Sherpa culture and their way of life. Namche bazaar houses all the government offices and has all the modern amenities like- internet cafes, restaurants, ATMs etc. Apart from the luscious towering mountains, the Everest region is also characterized by ancient gompas. Visiting the Sherpa Museum and Namche Gompa would be a wonderful retreat. About 3-4 hrs of gentle hiking today would provide us a good acclimatization. Overnight at teahouse in Namche Bazaar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4110m/ 4-5 hrs)

We take the uphill path via Khumjung and arrive at Sansa. As we continue on the level trail above the Sansa junction, the path then crosses the lower slopes of Mt. Khumbila (5765m), which seems to hood up imposingly above Namche.  Initially the path climbs up a ridge and the later contours around it taking us towards a trivial looking “Mong La” pass (3975m). Withstanding the piercing mountain winds, we descend towards the Dudh Koshi River and arrive at Phortse Thenga. From here, Dole just a pleasant hike away through the dense clusters of pines and rhododendrons. Overnight at teahouse in Dole; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 07: Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4470m/ 3-4 hrs)

From Dole, the trek resumes with a steep ascent out of the forest to a barren hillside and continues past a chorten. The trail takes us past a seasonal village of Lhabarma and then climbs gently past a large chorten to the settlement of Luza. The ascent continues over a series of hummocks along the side of valley until we eventually arrive at another chorten and the fluttering prayer flags at Machermo, a small settlement beautifully tucked into the wide bottomed valley below the terminal moraine of Ngozumpa Glacier. Overnight at teahouse in Machhermo; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 08: Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4790m/ 5-6 hrs)

Kissing goodbye to the foothills of Machermo, we enter the bleak tundra of the high mountains and then immediately make a steep ascent up a scrubby slope to reach a hilltop with a cluster of chortens.  Our walk now continues along a ridge, enjoying the views of Mt. Kantega (6685m) and Cho Oyu (8201m) until we arrive at a tiny settlement of Pangka. From here, the trail first drops and then climbs along the stone steps to a rocky cleft, releasing us to the lateral moraine of Ngozumpa Glacier. Within the confinement of this crumbling hummock of sand- gravel and the mountain wall, there are six sacred lakes.  We cross a bridge and then pass by one of the six lakes- Longponga Tso. The trail stretches across a barren landscape with imposing boulders outgrown by lichens.  However, the sight of the funky rhododendrons will be a good retreat. We then pass by the second lake “Taboche Thso” and eventually arrive at the picturesque village of Gokyo, boisterously poised on the shores of the third lake called “Dudh Pokhari”. The village offers some of the best excursions in the Everest region. We will have an extra day halt here just to make sure that we don’t miss out anything. Overnight at teahouse in Gokyo; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 09: Excursion day at Gokyo; ascent to the Gokyo Ri (5357m/ 5-6 hrs)

The Gokyo Ri is often reckoned as the “Kala Patthar of Gokyo” in terms of its fame. This imposing stony monticule, located at the north of the Dudh Pokhari is an exclusive vantage point that offers jaw-dropping panorama of the Everest milieu. Reaching the summit necessitates a two hours’ nerve racking climb. But once you are at the top, holy guacamole!!…..you will be spellbound to witness all the bigwigs of the Everest region, viz. Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cholatse and of course, the mightiest of them all-the Mt. Everest,  as intimidating and immortal as ever. While the village appears like a tiny dot on the moraine, the massive “Dudh Pokhari “ lake radiates its turquoise blue spectrum, almost putting you in some kind of hypnotic trance. After this indulgence in the grandeur of Gokyo, we meticulously descend the ridge and walk back to our teahouse. Overnight at teahouse in Gokyo; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 10: Extra day at Gokyo for rest or short enticing hikes (4-5 hrs of hiking)

We know that you are one of those tough flesh and bones, not ready to be bogged down by the ascents, twists and turns of the Everest region, but considering the fact that the trip is lengthy and humans are not machines, we’ve set aside this extra day at Gokyo. You can rest or gallivant around the village. We bet that an additional day in this mesmerizing milieu will not make you feel retracted. We’ve already accomplished the toughest mission at Gokyo, i.e. conquering the ridge. So what are in store for us now are some subtle hikes. Walking north of the village will take us to the string of other lakes along the moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. You will be on a slightly higher ground, which should not bother you much but to be honest, the tracks along the moraine seem really confusing. The village is surrounded by a pool of six sacred lakes, which happen to the perennial source of the rivers we have been following all the way since Lukla. On the edge of the moraine, there is a very trivial looking hummock known as the Scoundrel’s View Point (5000m), which offers marvelous view of Everest and Makalu. 4- 5 hours of relatively mild hike should wrap up the day for us. Overnight at teahouse in Gokyo; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 11: Trek from Gokyo to Tangna (4700m/4-5 hrs)

The two days of rejuvenating excursions at the fascinating vicinity of Gokyo, we now advance to accomplish one of the most desired ventures of this trip, crossing the very famed Cho La Pass. But for that we have to first get to Tangna. We head on for about 3-4 hours’ walk towards the south-east from Gokyo across the Ngozumpa Glacier. Since our tomorrow’s trek constitutes a long walk coupled with crossing the Cho La, we limit today’s walk up to Tangna. Overnight at teahouse in Tangna; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 12: Trek from Tangna to Lobuche (4940m) via Cho La Pass (5350m/6-7 hrs)

With high spirits we begin the mission towards the Cho La Pass. The high elevated trail could make any one breathless. On conducive weather conditions you don’t have to be specially equipped to cross the pass, but yes, warm clothes are imponderable. Most often than not, the pass seems to be covered with snow, so mountaineering gears and equipments like ice-axe and ice-hammer are necessary. The pass is  not suitable for heavily loaded yaks or porters. From the top of the pass, our trail skirts around the ridge and then drops to the village of Dzongla. By now we will already have walked about 5 hours. A downhill walk for another 2 hours will eventually bring us to Lobuche. Overnight at teahouse in Lobuche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 13: Trek from Lobuche to Kala Patthar (5550m) via Gorakshep and back to Gorakshep (5140m/6-7 hrs)

With every new day, the altitude increases. We should be cautious about AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), especially the headache. If such symptoms persist, it is better to have an extra day halt at Lobuche. But if all is well, we can proceed. The first section of the trail follows the narrow gap between the glacier moraine and the mountain wall. The route of the path changes frequently as the edge of the moraine tumbles onto the glacier. The cairns of stones left as the marks by fellow travelers can be a guiding star to identify the right path. The client continues as we take a detour to the edge of the moraine, which offers us a splendid view of Khumbu Glacier. Eventually we arrive at Gorakshep. We halt for some time and then resume the ascent to Kala Patthar. The path climbs up the grassy ridge above Gorakshep. The isn’t actually difficult to identify; all you need to do is follow the seemingly never ending line of the Gore-Tex clad trekkers, trudging up the hill-side. After about one and half hours we make it to the apex of Kala Patthar which is marked with fluttering prayer flags. Anyone could get ecstatic looking at 360 degree view of the Himalayan giants-Nuptse, Lobuche-west, Lhotse and the mighty Everest. After this Himalayan indulgence, we descend back to Gorakshep. Overnight at teahouse in Gorakshep; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 14: Trek from Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp (5364m) and back to Lobuche (4910m/6-7 hrs)

Starting at the north end of the sandpit at Gorakshep, our journey to Everest Base Camp is a challenging walk across the Khumbu Glacier. Making our way along this ever changing path and witnessing tiny mouse-hares between the boulders, we arrive at the Everest Base Camp, marked with colorful dome tents and fluttering prayer flags. Well, you don’t see big hotels, wide roads and vehicles whipping past you, but looking at the number of people, it’s hard to believe that you are actually in some isolated mountain region of Nepal. It wouldn’t be wrong to call the Everest Base Camp a cosmopolitan because this place seems to be literally swarmed with people from almost every nook and corner of the world. People seem to be occupied in playing cards, eating or even strumming guitars; the only thing that could wrench one’s heart at times is the intermittent sound of the ice-fall in the vicinity. After this unprecedented indulgence in this iconic destination, we retrace our steps back to Lobuche, which is a mere downhill walk of about 2 hours from Gorakshep. Overnight at teahouse in Lobuche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 15: Trek from Lobuche to Dingboche (4410m/ 4-5 hrs)

Our trek ahead now gradually starts getting easier. The walk to Dingboche is a downhill stroll along the moraine. We cross a bridge over a swift stream that flows out of the glacier. Following the upper route that runs along the valley wall of Dusa, we eventually arrive at Dingboche. Overnight at teahouse in Dingboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 16: Excursion day at Dingboche; ascend Chhukung Ri (5550 m/7-8 hrs)

This extra day has been set aside just to make sure that we don’t miss out climbing one of the famed ridges of the region. Although the ascent to Chhukung Ri from Dingboche is a tough ask that necessitates a stiff climb of about 4 hours, the panorama that unfolds once you are at the top, is simply irresistible. The ache in the bones will instantly be alleviated once you witness the mammoth snow-clad giants like Ama Dablam, Makalu (5380m) and Baruntsa (5538m) from the apex of the ridge. After this tiring yet enticing mission, we gradually descend back to Dingboche, which should be a lot easier compared to what we experienced when making the ascent. Overnight at teahouse in Dingboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

 

Day 17: Trek from Dingboche to Tengboche (3860m/3-4 hrs)

From Dingboche, the trail drops down the valley of Orsho and then follows the west bank of Imja River to Shomare and further to Pangboche. There is an old Gompa here worth visiting, which is just about 20 minutes’ hike from Pangboche. After visiting the Gompa we retrace our steps down to Imja River and then make a gentle ascend through the forest to finally arrive at Tengboche. Overnight at teahouse in Tengboche; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 18: Trek from Tengboche to Monjo (2835m/ 5-6 hrs)

The trek begins with a steep descent of about 500 m through the rhododendron bushes and fir trees. We then cross the bridge over Dudhkoshi River and pass through the villages of Tashinga and Sansa until we arrive at the settlement of Kyangjuma. Continuing our happy way back, we trail along the curvy and steep maze to Namche Bazaar. If you are lucky enough, you might just be able to spot some wild lives like mountain goats, snow leopards and colorful pheasants on the way. From Namche, we take a steep downhill route and cross another suspension bridge over the Dudhkoshi River. Before arriving at Monjo, we need to cross the Dudhkoshi River at more point. Eventually, we exit the Sagarmatha National Park and arrive at the tranquil vicinity of Monjo village. Overnight at teahouse in Monjo; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
 

Day 19: Trek from Monjo to Lukla (2840m/ 4 – 5 hrs)

Probably, the last long walk in the trip, but mind you, it’s not strenuous at all! The route is occasioned by trivial ascents and descents but most of the part is flat. It’s almost like rewinding back your journey. We walk through the open plains, rhododendron and pine forests and Sherpa villages. Crossing the Dudhkoshi River through suspension bridges at three different points, we push ourselves for the last 45 minutes’ ascent from Chheplung. Yes, we are now at Lukla! Thus, with tired legs but content eyes, our trek eventually winds up. Let’s relax and celebrate this accomplishment with the entire crew members! Overnight at teahouse in Lukla; breakfast lunch, and dinner included.  
 

Day 20: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1400m/ 45min)

Ambulating on the lap of super mountains for almost two weeks and cuddling some sweet and sour memories, we take a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. Upon arrival at KTM, check in to the hotel for overnight stay. You can refresh and relax to do away the fatigue. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.


 

Day 21: A free day in Kathmandu

A free day in Kathmandu to fulfill anything that you missed out spotting in this energetic capital of Nepal. You can indulge yourself in shopping or strolling around some of the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. Thamel is your hot spot for shopping where you can haul all the souvenirs representing Nepal and its culture. May be that in addition to your interesting trip anecdotes, you would also want to take back some stuff for your friends and relatives. In the evening, a farewell dinner with a range of traditional Nepali cuisines will be hosted by Marron Treks. Enjoy the dinner, pack/prepare yourself for a flight back home and have a beauty sleep. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.

Day 22: Final departure

Unless you would want to extend your trip and try out some of our other adventurous packages like Bungy Jumping, Mountain Biking, Jungle Safari, White Water Rafting, Golfing & Paragliding etc., this will be your last day in Nepal. A representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the airport for the final departure to your homeland. Have a safe flight back home. Please let us know about your desire for trip extension so that we can make the necessary arrangements.

  Important  Snippets  

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Besides, the domestic flights in Nepal could be subjected to delays or cancellations owing to adverse weather conditions or technical glitches. It is worth mentioning that the flights cannot be operated in the condition where the visibility is less than 1600 meters. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Accommodation

While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar.

During the trek, you will be accommodated in a Tea House/ Lodge or Trekking Inn. Most of these lodges and teahouses cater good services and are equipped with modern amenities. We will endeavor to provide you the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.

Meals

We arrange the best quality food during the trek as we are concerned about the health of the trekkers as well as the staff members. Basically, we opt for locally available food in the Everest Region so that you could a real sense of the culture, living patterns, simultaneously promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Porter and Staff Care

We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going to high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. They are the backbones of a trek.

Best Months

The month of January-June & September-December are considered to be best months for Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek.

Any Experience Required?

For Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek no former experience required. Physical fitness is the only key to accomplish this trek.

Our Guides

Guides play a very active role during the trek. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful treking guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as productive. Our guides are literate, multilingual speakers, environment conscious and well acquainted to culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to the Everest Region . This would help our trekkers make the most of their trip.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. In some places it is not necessary but it would be better if you have the travel insurance with you all the time. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.

For more queries, visit our FAQ section or contact us directly at  marketing@marrontreks.com

Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request) on twin sharing accommodation basis.

For other special requirements or bigger group deals, kindly mail us directly at: marketing@marrontreks.com

Cost Includes

• Airport pick-up and drop services.
• Guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city.
• Applicable domestic airfare as per the itinerary.
• Entrance and monumental fees during the sightseeing in Kathmandu as prescribed in the itinerary.
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on “BB” basis as per itinerary.
• All ground transportation costs in accordance to the itinerary.
• All trekking accommodation costs on full board (B, L, D) basis as per the itinerary. The accommodation will be in the guesthouses/ lodges/ teahouses on twin sharing basis but occasionally in the common dormitory (esp. during peak tourist seasons).
• Four seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion) duffel bag, t-shirt and Cap (provided as complimentary gears).
• A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the trekking guide).
• Salary to guide and porters for the trekking period.
• Personal insurance for crew members.
• All applicable tourist fees, conservation fees, "special permit" fees & TIMS fees necessary for trekking.
• All government and local taxes.
• Farewell dinner with live Nepalese cultural program.

Cost Excludes

• International airfare and departure taxes.
• Personal travel insurance.
• Lunch & dinner expenses incurred before or after the trekking period.
• Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
• Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).
• Tips to the guide, porter, driver, hotel and tea-house staff (Tipping is expected).
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
• Excess baggage charges (luggage allowance for domestic airlines in Nepal is 20 kgs.).
• Personal insurance and other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower etc.).
• Cost of personal trekking gears and equipments (kindly refer to our equipment lists: http://www.marrontreks.com/itineraries/225-26/gokyo-cho-la-pass-trek-22-days.html#equipment-list ).
• Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies like (but not limited to) natural calamities, accidents, illness, thefts, damages etc.
• Garbage deposit fees (refundable).
• Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section above.

Departure Date

Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the trek packages. We operate group as well as individual/private treks. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.