Gokyo Chola Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing via EBC 22 Days

Your first day of the Gokyo Chola Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing via EBC will start at Tribhuvan International Airport. As your flight proceeds to land, our crew members will get ready to warmly welcome you. Upon arrival at the airport, we shall receive you with the utmost regard before taking you to your respective hotels by means of a private car.

Duration

30 minute drive to hotel

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

After having our full breakfast, we will just go to Kathmandu, which is the capital city of Nepal, so there is a lot of history and good architecture there. Thus, there are a number of attractions that are definitely worth visiting and that give you an idea of the history and landscape of the city. Some of the popular sites are:

1. Kathmandu Durbar Square: This is one of the sites that fall under the Unesco World Heritage List, and at this place, there are many temples, palaces, and courtyards that were used by the royals. Pashupatinath Temple occupies a significant position from a cultural and religious point of view in the Kathmandu Valley.

2. Boudhanath Stupa: Boudhanath is one of the world’s highest Buddhist stupas and an appropriately monumental icon of the city of Kathmandu. The monasteries and Tibetan necessity shops are close by; therefore, the sight has plenty of energy and spiritual tourists.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Activity

sightseeing

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Today is the day we will begin our wonderful journey on the Gokyo Chola Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing via EBC. The last thing we do is leave the hotel and then head towards the airport. Several airlines from Manthali have direct flights for travelers from Kathmandu to Lukla with a terrible record of getting delayed.

Finally, following this nice and exciting trip on the flight, we will disembark at Lukla only. From here, the trek to Phakding will commence. The first trek starting from Lukla to Phakding is easy and takes about 3–4 hours; it is about 5.6 km.

One of the most recommended viewpoints en route is the mountain view along with Sherpa Village and the suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. At the Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Main Gate, our guide will ask for your Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasanga Lamu Rural Municipality fee and keep it safe under his guidance.

During the Gokyo Chola Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing via EBC, you will come across so many tea houses and lodges where you can have a bed to sleep in and food to eat. Some of these serve food, and some other essentials such as beds, blankets, and even hot water for showers can also be arranged for a few rupees extra.

Proceeding further from here, we move onwards to reach Phakding, which is our halt for the night. You will be offered a comfortable lodge where you will spend the night. Here, you will receive hot coffee and a hot shower, as well as an internet connection to touch base with the outside world.

Attention

If the direct domestic flight to Lukla from Kathmandu is diverted to the Ramechhap/Manthali Airport, then we will drive for 4 hours in private transport probably around midnight to Ramechhap. Then we will fly to Lukla, the flight diversion generally occurs in spring and autumn months.

Duration

3 hours

Max Altitude

2652 m/8699 ft

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From Phakding, we will start our trek towards Namche Bazaar, one of the prosperous villages of Sherpas. We will be crossing a few swinging suspension bridges, numerous pine and fir trees, and rhododendrons along the way.

Similarly, before getting into Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, it is necessary to get a trekking permit. The hotspot village in this region is Lukla, and the administrative zone of this region also covers this village. From here, the permits can be obtained. We will also get to feast our eyes on the wonderful Kongde Ri before and during the trek.

We will trek along the way and cross several suspension bridges, which also include the Suspension Hillary Bridge. As we walk through it, we will see Taboche Peak (6,419 m), and after walking 1 hour more, we will reach Top Danda, where we will see Mt. Everest, Lhotste, and Nuptse. Before that, we will stop for lunch in Jorsale village.

While heading for the walk toward Phakding, Mt. Khumbila will be sighted with the eyes, which is inhabited by Sherpa people. The trekkers get to catch a glimpse of what is considered the highest and most beautiful mountain in the world—Khusum Khangru.

Namche Bazaar, which is actually a very beautiful village, will be reached after a few hours of the trek. This is the place from which we will depart for this comfortable lodge, and then tomorrow, should there be time, we will be able to visit other additional sites.

Duration

5 - 6 hours

Max Altitude

3440 m/11283 ft

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Today is a special day of the Gokyo Chola Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing via EBC when you can learn how your body gets adjusted to high altitudes. When you move to different elevations above sea level on a daily basis, it is important to adjust yourself so as to stay healthy; otherwise, it can be dangerous.

We will have our breakfast, then tour around nearby places to get acclimated. Afterwards, we will visit the Everest View Hotel (3780 m). It is located at the highest point in the world and offers views of other towering mountains, such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Mount Everest.

While moving up to the hotel, we will also be welcomed by the beautiful Kongde Ri, Khangtega, Pachermo Peak, Tangerito Peak, and Samdur Peak. This beautiful hotel will be our destination for today, and we will be able to drink our coffee on the terrace of the hotel while enjoying the magnificent views of the Great Himalayas, especially Everest, Ama Dablam, and other beautiful mountains.

We need to descend a little and go back to Namche for our lodge to acclimate at this higher altitude. The probability of getting altitude sickness increases if the trek is made at a height of 3000 meters or above. This is the reason why trekking in the Himalayan region is very risky due to the effects of altitude sickness. Low-density results in the absence of oxygen for you to inhale. This can cause different issues that can influence the Gokyo Lake Trek in some way.

Thus, in order to avoid any of the problems that may occur later, we will take a day to get used to the new environment. Today is an optional day, and one can stroll around Namche Bazaar or may choose to rest. You can perform light exercises in your room or go around to nearby villages from Namche Bazar. Nevertheless, if you perceive the symptoms of altitude sickness on the upcoming trek, you have to let your fellow trekkers and the guide know.

Duration

2 - 3 hours

Max Altitude

3380 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

After having breakfast, we will head towards our today’s destination, Dole where we stay overnight. As we continue our trail till Sanasa village, followed by Danda, Phortse Tanga village, and the Dudh Koshi River, you will learn more about the geographical features along with the awe-inspiring scenery.

After trekking uphill for around 2 hours to Mongla Danda, then downhill till Phortse Tanga for around 3 hours, we will finally reach Dole, a small, beautiful village filled with colorful flags and inns, after 5–6 hours. We will spend our nights at these inns and continue our journey the following day. Throughout our journey, we will pass through several Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and small waterfalls. We will descend towards pine and fir forests as well as rhododendrons.

Duration

5 6 hours

Max Altitude

4,041 m.

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

From Dole, we will descend toward beautiful hills, small forests, and countless suspension bridges. As we will be trekking for 4-5 hours, you will get to witness many animals grazing in the bushes and meadows, which will be a totally new experience for you.

Further climbing uphill, passing by some more villages like Dole, Labarma, and Luza village with the magnificent view of the Himalayas and the surrounding areas, we reach today’s destination, Machhermo.

Duration

3 - 4 hours

Max Altitude

4,471 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The usual duration elapsed while extending from Machhermo to Gokyo, which lies at 4800 m (15,744 ft.) in height, ranges from 4 to 5 hours. The route from Machhermo goes through the Sherpa villages and gradually starts climbing through the rhododendron forests and alongside the mountain rivers. The Three Ring Lakes, which we frequently see on our trek, are Longpongo at a height of 4690 m, Taboche Tsho, and Dudh Pokhari.

Following the trail and enjoying the scenery, we will finally reach the scenic village of Gokyo, located on the shores of Gokyo Lake, which is very beautiful. There are things that one must personally behold, and the natural beauty of the Himalayas and the colorful culture of Sherpas are worth that.

Duration

3 - 4 hours

Max Altitude

4,705

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

On the acclimatization day in the splendid Gokyo Valley, we will go for a stiff climb to Gokyo Ri, at a height of 5,330 meters (17,483 feet). The journey starts at such a pace, and it traverses through steep terrain with Himalayan mountains and brightly sparkling glacial lakes.

During your trek from the Gokyo Valley, you will get to witness mesmerizing scenes of the majestic mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, and many more, along with several lakes and glaciers. After a few hours of hiking, we will finally reach Gokyo Ri, one of the most popular as well as one of the most beautiful scenes in the world, which proves the fantastic landscape of snow giants.

Duration

3 - 4 hours

Max Altitude

5,358 m. / 17,579 ft.

Activity

Hike to Gokyo Ri

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

On this day, we will do a short trek that brings us to the 4th Gokyo Lake, or at least to the vantage point to view the lake. Proceeding further, cross over the glacier and rocks to get to Thagnak; there are only a handful of teahouses here, and everyone has planned to cross Chola Pass by tomorrow.

Duration

3 - 4 hours

Max Altitude

4,700 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We will wake up early in the morning and start climbing Chola Pass (5,330 m). This pass links the main EBC trek with Gokyo Valley. Also, the most challenging trail of our trek is after beginning our journey from Thaknak, as we will be walking through rocky paths.

For this pass, we will be trekking over a glacier at some points; therefore, crampons are necessary. Of course, the views to make up for a long day on this route make up for it. But make sure that during our trek, we carefully pass through snow cracks, as it might be a bit risky for us.

After crossing through many difficulties and enjoying the beautiful and majestic Himalayas, we will finally reach Lobuche, a lively village filled with generous people. Here, we will spend the night and continue our trail the following morning.

Duration

6 - 8 hours

Max Altitude

4,910 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The hike between Lobuche and the EBC, which is at 5364 m (17,594 ft) and 15,170 m (16,961 ft), takes about 6-7 hours. This is an arduous but incredibly fulfilling endeavor during which the trekkers get to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of the great Himalayas and Everest.

We will go through steep slopes, glaciers, and steep rocks to get a feel for the beauty of the Khumbu region. It is not easy, and one has to be very determined to complete the trek; however, the views and feeling of accomplishment are worth the effort.

Duration

6 - 7 hours

Max Altitude

5,364 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The trek from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, which is at 5545 m/18,192 ft, to and from Lobuche, at 4940 m/16,207 ft, takes approximately 5-6 hours. We will undergo a rugged uphill hike covering rocks to get to Kala Patthar, which offers an excellent view of the sun rising or setting on Everest. After spending some quality time, we return to Lobuche, where we will spend our night.

Duration

5 - 6 hours

Max Altitude

4,910

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The walking distance from Lobuche to Kongma La Pass at 5,535 m/18,159 ft and the next stop at Chhukung at 4,730 m/15,518 ft is 6-7 hours. You will be provided with beautiful scenes of the hindered Himalayan ranges for their satisfaction. One must be in good health, have enough practice, and have acclimatized to the conditions that prevail in such regions.

Duration

6 - 7 hours

Max Altitude

4,730 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

After spending a night at one of the inns, we will start our trek early in the morning. Although it might be a bit tougher and more difficult than other days, it will be worth it after reaching our destination. After facing lots of steep and slippery slopes and trekking for about 3–4 hours, we will finally reach Island Peak Base Camp, which is at an altitude of 5200 m and 17060 feet above sea level.

It is the moment where you are rewarded with beautiful scenery while making your way to the base camp at 5200 m. Thus, during your climb to the magnificent Island Peak Imja Tse at 6,189 m, you can have the best views of your desire.

It usually takes 3 to 4 hours to get to the Island Peak Base Camp at 5,200 m (17,060 ft) from Chhukung. This is short but steep, as we will be crossing through some sharp rocks and slowly climbing up towards the Island Peak base camp. Such trekking can be regarded as preparation for Island Peak, in order to get a glimpse of what the climbers are going to face.

Before climbing Island Peak, training is done at Island Peak Base Camp, which involves acclimatization, teaching, and practicing how to climb, as well as the use of tools such as crampons and ice axes. Thus, training involves skills in the use of ropes, glacial movements, and fundamental precautionary measures.

Duration

Trekking

Max Altitude

5,200 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Tented Camp

We will wake up at midnight! The equipment and rucksack were already packed last night, so we will get dressed and go to the food tent for a light meal and hot drink.

We will depart at 01:30 and we will slowly walk up the mountain. Our headlamps will illuminate the path ahead. The path veers toward the west and ascends steeply for approximately 800 meters across the rocky landscape.

The path then traverses the unstable sandy ground for a moment before reaching the Advance Camp. Now the route transitions to to icy and rocky terrain that needs a three-hour ascent.

Once we reach the glacier, we will put on our climbing gear and get some extra energy for the last part of the climb before we enter the rope layer over the glacier. Depending on the conditions, we also have to cross ladders over crevasses, and in some places, the ice ax will be of great help.

When we reach the foot of the Island Peak headwall, we will enter fixed ropes, and step by step we strive towards the top. The last 200 meters of altitude are tiring with a 45-degree angle that may need the usage of jumar.

We get a reward for our efforts when we reach the top, and get to experience the sensational 360-degree view of  Everest, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, Pumori, Makalu,  Lhotse,  Cholatse, Thamserku,  and many more.

After taking pictures, we will go back down to base camp, eat quickly, and then go all the way back to Chhukung.

Duration

10 - 12 hours

Max Altitude

6,189 m

Activity

Climbing

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

We are tired, but we will gain strength as we descend into the Imja Khola Valley once again. We will proceed through the Dingboche and Shomare villages until we arrive at Pangboche. At this point, the landscape gradually transitions back to greenery with the presence of pine, fir, and deciduous trees.

Moving across the Imja Khola over a steel bridge, we will continue our journey towards Debuche. We can take a night’s rest here and if our energy permits, we may push forward towards Tengboche to shorten our walk for the following day.

Marching through conifer and rhododendron trees, we walk down to Tengboche Gompa. We will then settle in one of the village’s lodges for the night.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3865 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

The trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar is about 4-5 hours. Also, this ride is characterized by plunging through wooded paths, suspension bridges, and stopping over the pretty Sherpa villages. From this route, you will have a spectacular view of the Himalayas and slowly come down to the busy town of Namche Bazaar.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3440 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

It normally takes about 6–7 hours to trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. The trail is scenic; you will get to view mountains, and the trail passes several villages. You can also revisit your favorite places during your trek. As we reach Lukla, we will spend our night at some inns.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

2800

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Today we will say goodbye to Lukla and take a flight from the airport to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can get to explore the night view of the city and enjoy it on your own.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

This will be the last day in Nepal as well as for the Gokyo Chola Pass trek with Island Peak Climbing via EBC. Our crew members will drop you off at the international airport, from where you will depart for your next destination.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse