Cho La
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Cho-La and how tall is it?
This is a high mountain pass in the Khumbu region in northeastern Nepal, at an altitude of 5,420 meters. There is a glacier on top of it - so this is not an ordinary trail, but a serious alpine ascent.
How to cross the pass and what does it connect?
Cho-La connects the village of Dzongla (4830 m) from the east and Tagnak (4700 m) from the west. To the west, the trail leads to the Gokyo Lakes through the Ngozumpa Glacier, and to the east, it leads to the route to Everest Base Camp.
Is it difficult to pass it?
Yes, the pass is physically exhausting. Above is a slippery glacier, where cats are often needed, and its edge is unstable - so it is better not to climb there without certain mountain skills.
When is the best time to go?
Snow lies here for about nine months a year, and the temperature stays below zero for a long time. The transition window is narrow, so plan for the warmer months.
Why do tourists come here?
Cho-La is a key link of the popular Khumbu trekking ring. It is he who stitches two main magnets of the region into one route: Lake Gokyo and the base camp of Everest.
