The Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass Trek Itinerary is a remarkable alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, blending natural splendor with high-altitude adventure. This route features crystal-clear glacial lakes, remote Sherpa villages, and the thrilling crossing of the Cho La Pass (5,420 m), one of the most scenic and challenging passes in the Khumbu region. Here’s a comprehensive 14-day itinerary for trekkers seeking a more scenic and slightly off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Arrive in Nepal’s capital city and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s bustling streets or visit cultural sites like Swayambhunath and Durbar Square. Prepare permits and gear for the trek.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,860 m), Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
A scenic 30-minute mountain flight lands at Lukla. Begin the trek by descending along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding, a quiet village ideal for a gentle acclimatization hike.
- Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Cross several suspension bridges and ascend gradually into Sagarmatha National Park. The final climb to Namche is steep, but the vibrant Sherpa town is well worth the effort.
- Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Spend a day in Namche to adjust to the altitude. Take a side hike to Everest View Hotel or the Khumjung Monastery for stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Day 5: Trek to Dole (4,200 m)
The trail branches off from the classic EBC route and heads northwest toward Gokyo Valley. Walk through alpine forests and pass yak herder settlements en route to Dole.
- Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 6: Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m)
Continue your gradual ascent with beautiful views of Cho Oyu and Thamserku. Arrive in Machhermo, a high-altitude village known for past sightings of the Yeti legend.
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 7: Trek to Gokyo (4,800 m)
Pass the dramatic Ngozumpa Glacier and three stunning high-altitude lakes before reaching Gokyo, nestled beside the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. The views are otherworldly.
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 8: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) and Explore Lakes
An early morning climb to Gokyo Ri offers one of the most panoramic vistas in the Himalayas—Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu rise above the clouds. Return to Gokyo for rest or explore the upper lakes.
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 9: Trek to Dragnag (4,700 m)
Cross the glacier to reach Dragnag, a staging point before the Cho La Pass. The trek is short but requires care while crossing the glacial moraine.
- Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 10: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m), Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m)
Start early for a challenging day. The trail to Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass Trek Itinerary involves steep ascents and icy terrain. After the exhilarating crossing, descend carefully to Dzongla.
- Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Day 11: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m)
Join the classic EBC trail as you head toward Lobuche. The landscape opens up to vast glaciers and the looming presence of the Himalayas.
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 12: Trek to Gorakshep (5,140 m), Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Push to Gorakshep, the last settlement before base camp. Drop your bags and hike to Everest Base Camp, marveling at the Khumbu Icefall.
- Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Day 13: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m), Trek to Pheriche (4,240 m)
Climb Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest’s summit. Afterward, descend steadily to the lower-altitude village of Pheriche.
- Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Day 14–17: Return to Lukla via Namche and Fly to Kathmandu
Retrace your steps through Namche Bazaar, spend a night there, and continue to Lukla. Catch a morning flight back to Kathmandu, concluding your epic trek.
Conclusion
The Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass Trek Itinerary is a rewarding Himalayan circuit that blends natural beauty with physical challenge. Ideal for experienced trekkers, it offers solitude, spiritual depth, and once-in-a-lifetime views—all while leading to the foot of Everest. With proper acclimatization and preparation, it’s one of Nepal’s most unforgettable trekking experiences.