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What is Cho La Pass?

Cho La Pass is a high mountain pass in Nepal’s Everest region, standing at an altitude of 5,420 meters (17,782 feet). It connects the Gokyo Valley with the Everest Base Camp trail. Think of it as a rugged shortcut between two Himalayan worlds: Gokyo Lakes and EBC.

Where is Cho La Pass Located?

Cho La is nestled between Dzongla (on the Everest Base Camp side) and Thagnak (near Gokyo). It’s part of the Three Passes Trek, which includes Renjo La and Kongma La, making it a key feature in Nepal’s ultimate trekking adventure.

Trekkers usually reach Cho La after visiting Everest Base Camp or Gokyo Lakes, depending on which direction they’re going.

Why is Cho La Pass Popular?

Cho La Pass offers:

• Epic views of mountains like Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Lobuche East
• A glacier crossing, which feels like stepping into another world
• A chance to connect two iconic trails in one unforgettable adventure
• A real sense of accomplishment

For many, crossing Cho La is a badge of honor. It’s not just a walk. It is a story worth telling.

What Makes Cho La Pass Difficult?

Good question. The difficulty of Cho La Pass isn’t just about height. It’s about a combo of factors:

• Thin air that makes breathing harder.
• Steep ascent and descent.
• Glacier crossings that require caution and balance.
• Unpredictable weather that can change rapidly.

Altitude Sickness: The Invisible Hurdle

Altitude sickness is real, and Cho La is prime territory for it.

Symptoms include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

You might think, “I’m fit, I’ll be fine.” But altitude doesn’t care about fitness. Proper acclimatization is critical.

Tips:

• Take rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
• Hydrate like your life depends on it.
• Ascend gradually, not like you’re racing.

Weather Conditions on Cho La

Weather here is a wild card. You can start with sunshine and end in a snowstorm.

Mornings are safest: Most trekkers begin by 4–5 AM.

Afternoons invite clouds and sudden snow.

Temperature: Often below freezing, especially before sunrise.

Is Technical Gear Required?

No technical climbing gear is required for most seasons, but some items help:

• Microspikes or crampons (especially in spring/fall)
• Trekking poles for balance
• Good boots with ankle support

You don’t need ropes or harnesses.

When is the Best Time to Cross Cho La Pass?

Here’s the breakdown:

• Spring (March–May): Clear skies, less snow, vibrant landscapes.
• Autumn (October–November): Best visibility, fewer chances of snowfall.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Beautiful but risky. Snow can block the trail.
• Monsoon (June–Sept): Not recommended because of Rain

Timing matters. Go in peak seasons, and you’ll avoid most dangers.

Cho La Pass in Winter: Is it Safe?

Winter trekking is possible but only for experienced adventurers with proper gear and local guides.

• Snow hides the trail.
• Glacier is more dangerous.
• Lodges may be closed.

In one sentence: It’s not the season to test your luck.

Can beginners cross Cho La Pass?

Beginners can attempt Cho La Pass (5,420 meters) in Nepal’s Everest region, but it’s a challenging endeavor that requires careful preparation, physical fitness, and ideally, guidance.

Key Considerations for Beginners:

Guided Trek: Beginners should strongly consider hiring a guide or joining a trekking group. Guides ensure navigation, safety, and support, especially in bad weather or on the glacier.

Preparation: Proper gear (sturdy boots, warm layers, etc.) and pre-trek training are non-negotiable. Beginners should also learn about altitude sickness symptoms and prevention.

Weather and Timing: Choose time for trek in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for stable weather.

Tips for Beginners for Cho La Pass

You don’t need to be a marathon runner or a gym rat. But you do need:

• Good cardiovascular endurance (for hiking 5–8 hours a day)
• Strong legs and core (to handle steep climbs and descents)
• Balance and flexibility (for rocky, uneven trails)

Training Tips:

• Start with long walks or hikes, increasing distance weekly
• Do stair climbing or hill sprints
• Try carrying a backpack on hikes to simulate real trekking
• Include strength and cardio workouts

Mental Preparation: More Than Just Muscles

Trekking is as much about mental strength as it is about physical. The trail will test your patience, your determination, and your attitude.

Ask yourself:

• Are you okay with getting cold, tired, and a bit uncomfortable?
• Can you stay calm if you get altitude symptoms or have to change plans?

Your answer doesn’t need to be “yes” right now. But if you’re willing to grow through the experience, you’re already on the right path.

Cho La Pass Route Comparison: East to West vs West to East

For trekking to Cho La Pass (5,420 meters), the choice of route—whether approaching from Dzongla to Thagnak (east to west) or Thagnak to Dzongla (west to east) can impact the experience. Both routes are challenging, but the Dzongla to Thagnak route is generally better for beginners due to its more gradual ascent and safer descent profile. Below is a comparison to explain why, along with considerations for beginners.

East to West Cho La Pass Route: Dzongla to Thagnak

Overview: Start in Dzongla (4,830m), climb to Cho La Pass (5,420m), cross the glacier, and descend to Thagnak (4,700m).

Ascent: The climb from Dzongla to the pass is steep but more gradual compared to the Thagnak side. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach the pass, with a steady incline over rocky terrain.

Descent: The descent to Thagnak involves crossing the Cho La glacier (short, non-technical but potentially icy) and then a steep, rocky descent. The glacier is less intimidating when descending, as you’re moving downhill.

Duration: 6-8 hours total, depending on pace and breaks.

Why Better for Beginners:

Easier Ascent: The climb from Dzongla is less abrupt, allowing beginners to pace themselves better.

Safer Descent: The glacier is easier to navigate downhill, and the descent to Thagnak feels less exposed than the rocky climb from Thagnak.

Acclimatization: Dzongla is typically reached after acclimatizing in places like Dingboche, making this route align well with standard Everest Base Camp (EBC) itineraries.

Views: The views of Ama Dablam and surrounding peaks are stunning, boosting morale for beginners.

West to East Cho La Pass Route: Thagnak to Dzongla

Overview: Start in Thagnak (4,700m), ascend steeply to Cho La Pass, cross the glacier, and descend to Dzongla.

Ascent: The climb from Thagnak is steeper and more relentless, with loose scree and rocky sections, taking 3-4 hours to reach the pass. It’s physically more demanding.

Descent: The descent to Dzongla is steep and rocky but less technical than the glacier crossing. However, the rocky terrain can be tiring for beginners after the tough ascent.

Duration: 6-8 hours, similar to the other direction.

Challenges for Beginners:

Steeper Ascent: The climb from Thagnak is more grueling, which can exhaust beginners early in the day.

Glacier Ascent: Crossing the glacier uphill requires more effort and balance, especially if icy, which can be intimidating.

Energy Drain: The demanding ascent may leave less energy for the descent, increasing fatigue-related risks.

Recommended Itinerary of Cho La Pass Trek with EBC

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Day 2: Flight to Lukla (2,860m), trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Day 4: Acclimatization/rest day at Namche Bazaar; optional short hikes

Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m), visit Tengboche Monastery

Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

Day 7: Acclimatization day at Dingboche; hike around to adjust to altitude

Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m)

Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m) and on to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), return to Gorak Shep for overnight

Day 10: Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for panoramic Everest views, trek down to Dzongla (4,620m approx.)

Day 11: Trek from Dzongla to cross Cho La Pass (5,420m), descend to Thangnak or Dragnak (4,700m approx.)

Day 12: Trek from Thangnak/Dragnak to Gokyo (4,750m), explore Gokyo Lakes

Day 13: Optional hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for spectacular views of Everest and surrounding peaks; rest day in Gokyo

Day 14: Trek from Gokyo to Dole.

Day 15: Trek from Dole to Namche Bazaar.

Day 16: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Day 17: Flight back to Kathmandu

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu.

Advised to keep few Additional/ buffer days due to uncertainity of Lukla flights.

Why This Itinerary Works for Beginners

• Acclimatization: Three acclimatization days (Namche, Dingboche, and time above 4,000m) minimize altitude sickness risks.
• Pacing: Shortens tough days (e.g., Thagnak to Gokyo) and includes recovery days post-EBC and Cho La.
• Route: Dzongla to Thagnak for Cho La is less strenuous on the ascent and safer on the glacier descent.
• EBC Integration: Visiting EBC before Cho La leverages acclimatization from Gorak Shep (5,164m) for the pass (5,420m).

Essential Gear Checklist

Must-haves for Cho La:

• Warm layers (down jacket, thermals)
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Trekking boots (broken-in, with ankle support)
• Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)
• Trekking poles
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Headlamp
• First aid kit

Tip: Travel light, but don’t skimp on essentials.

Real Beginner Stories from the Trail

Many first-time trekkers have successfully crossed Cho La.

Example:

Rachel, a 28-year-old from Canada, trained for three months before heading to Nepal. She said the pass day was “the hardest, most beautiful day” of her life. The early morning climb, crossing the glacier, and descending to Dzongla felt like “walking through a portal to another planet.”

What helped her most? “My guide, my mindset, and my hiking poles.”

Final Thoughts: Is Cho La Pass Worth It?

Absolutely. Cho La is not just a path, it’s an adventure, a personal challenge, and a doorway to some of Nepal’s most stunning views.

It’s hard, yes. But with the right mindset, preparation, and respect for the mountains, it becomes an unforgettable triumph.

So…how hard is Cho La Pass?

Hard enough to test you. Rewarding enough to transform you.

Excellent Himalaya Trek and Expedition is a highly recommended local company for Cho La Pass Everest Trek managed by local experts and Sherpa guides. You can freely contact them by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +977 9851203181 for any further information about Cho La Pass Trek.