EBC & Cho La Pass Trek — 15 Days

The Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass itinerary covers the complete Khumbu circuit — EBC, Kala Patthar, the glacier crossing at Cho La (5,420 m), Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri — in 15 days, making it the most scenically comprehensive Everest region trek available at this duration. It requires more fitness and altitude experience than the standard EBC trek, but delivers a proportionally richer experience: two iconic high points (Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri), a genuine glacier crossing, and the full contrast between the EBC moraine landscape and the turquoise Gokyo valley.

The Cho La glacier section takes approximately 2–3 hours on crossing day. Fixed ropes are in place on the steepest sections during the main trekking seasons; crampons are required and are provided by Travel Himalaya Nepal as part of the standard gear kit for this itinerary. Guides are trained in glacier travel and carry emergency equipment including ropes, altitude medication, and emergency oxygen above 5,000 m.

Overnight is at Dzongla before the crossing and at Gokyo after — both excellent acclimatisation stages that allow gradual adaptation to the 5,000+ m threshold before the pass day itself.

Experience Required

We recommend this itinerary for trekkers who have either previous multi-week Himalayan experience OR very strong cardiovascular fitness combined with good cold-weather tolerance. The physical demands on the Cho La day are comparable to a long alpine day hike at sea level — sustained effort at 5,000 m elevation. First-time trekkers are welcome; we ask that you complete our pre-booking fitness assessment so we can help calibrate expectations.

Best seasons: October–November and March–May. Crampons: Provided. Max altitude: Kala Patthar 5,545 m.