Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp Trek via Chola Pass follows a northwest trail from Namche to Gokyo Lake Valley and eventually leads you to EBC via a high pass. The entire trail goes through Sagarmatha National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Great Natural Values), dotted with exotic forests and Sherpa settlements. You have an opportunity to visit monasteries and museums that portray ancient culture and architecture. Moreover, you will stay at a local teahouse; the hospitality and warmness of the locals are intriguing.
Those who are seasoned and would like to give themselves a challenge should try this Gokyo Ri + Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass Trekking. With ever-changing scenery—from lush montane forests to alpine glacial lakes and snowy barren lands—this exotic hike offers you diverse visual experiences.
This trek, also known as the Everest Circuit Trek, has all the mountain highlights that the Everest region has to offer. Four out of the six highest peaks, along with countless other peaks and glaciers, are visible during the trek. As you continue along the trail, you experience the lush landscape, forest, monasteries, people, culture, glaciers, and lakes. Above all, you will step foot on the base camp of Everest, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not to forget the summiting of Kalapatthar, Gokyo Ri, and the challenging Cho La Pass. Everest base camp and Gokyo Ri Trek offer you great views of snow giants: Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Pumori, and numerous 6,000- and 7,000-meter peaks.
The major highlights of Gokyo Lake with EBC Trek
- Scenic flight to and from Lukla
- Live with Sherpas for a few days.
- The beautiful Gokyo Valley
- Impressive views of the Khumbu Icefall
- Climb Gokyo Ri at an elevation of 5,483 m.
- Climb Kala Patthar at an elevation of 5,555 m.
- Visit Tengboche Monastery.
Best Time for Gokyo Lake with EBC Trek:
Autumn season (September–November) and spring (March-May) are the best times for Gokyo Lake with EBC Trek via Cho Pass. Snow and severe cold can be issues in the high pass during other months.
Accommodation in Gokyo to EBC Trekking:
You stay at local lodges or teahouses that offer great facilities and warm Sherpa hospitality. You will be amazed to find lodges with WiFi connections, hot showers, and an extensive food menu. However, finding lodges can be challenging if you don’t book the trip beforehand.
Getting AMS risks on Trek to Gokyo EBC Route:
This trek concerns walking over 5,000 meters, and AMS can be a potential risk. However, the itinerary presented here allows for proper acclimatization and a gradual climb; AMS will not be a major issue on the trek.