Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Heli Trek (15 Days)

The Gokyo Chola Pass heli trek is a 15-day itinerary through Gokyo Lakes, over Cho La Pass (5,420 m) to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, with a helicopter return from Gorakshep.

Pick-up
Kathmandu
Drop-off
Gokyo
Flight option
Group Sharing Helicopter Flight
One-way price
US$ 3200
Fleet
Airbus and Bell
Flight type
Sharing Heli Flight

Questions and answers

How difficult is Cho La Pass?

It is the most demanding day, with a rocky climb and a glacier section at about 5,420 m. Good fitness and acclimatisation are essential.

Why add a helicopter at the end?

It saves a long descent after a hard trip and reduces the chance of missing your international flight because of Lukla delays.

What is the typical daily walking time?

Four to eight hours depending on the stage. The Cho La day is the longest.

Which permits are required?

Sagarmatha National Park entry and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality permit. We arrange them.

This route links the two famous valleys of the Khumbu: Gokyo, with its turquoise lakes, and the Everest Base Camp trail. Crossing the Cho La Pass at about 5,420 m is the hardest day, but the reward is two completely different landscapes in one trip.

The helicopter return from Gorakshep shortens the finish and gives a last aerial view of the glaciers you just crossed on foot.

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp Heli Trek (15 Days) at a glance

RouteKathmandu to Gokyo
Duration15 days
Highest point5,545 m (Kala Patthar), 5,420 m (Cho La Pass)
Group sharing priceFrom US$3,200 per person
Best seasonMarch to May and September to November. Snow on Cho La can close the pass in early spring and late autumn.
SuitsExperienced and fit trekkers who want more than the standard EBC route.

Highlights

  • Gokyo Lakes and the climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
  • Cho La Pass crossing (about 5,420 m)
  • Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar sunrise
  • Namche Bazaar acclimatisation and Sherpa culture
  • Helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla

Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.
  2. Day 2: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding.
  3. Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar.
  4. Day 4: Acclimatisation in Namche.
  5. Day 5: Namche to Dole.
  6. Day 6: Dole to Machhermo.
  7. Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo.
  8. Day 8: Gokyo Ri and lakes rest day.
  9. Day 9: Gokyo to Thangnak.
  10. Day 10: Cross Cho La Pass to Dzongla.
  11. Day 11: Dzongla to Lobuche.
  12. Day 12: Lobuche to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp.
  13. Day 13: Kala Patthar sunrise, helicopter to Lukla, flight to Kathmandu.
  14. Day 14: Buffer day in Kathmandu.
  15. Day 15: Departure.

What is included

  • Helicopter return Gorakshep-Lukla and flights Kathmandu-Lukla
  • Guide, porters, meals and tea-house lodging
  • Permits including Sagarmatha National Park entry
  • Hotels in Kathmandu and airport transfers
  • Sleeping bag and duffel bag loan

What is not included

  • International flights and Nepal visa
  • Travel insurance with evacuation cover (required)
  • Personal gear, drinks and tips
  • Evacuation costs

Best time to go

March to May and September to November. Snow on Cho La can close the pass in early spring and late autumn.

How to book

Send the request form on this page or call or WhatsApp +977 9841868910 with your dates, group size and passenger weights. We confirm availability and the final price before you pay. If weather prevents flying, we reschedule to the next suitable window, so keep a spare day in your plans and carry travel insurance that covers helicopter use and evacuation.

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