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Khumbu and Gokyo, Nepal / Peak climbing

Cholatse Expedition

A technical Cholatse climbing objective follows an acclimatization circuit through Gokyo, Cho La and the Everest Base Camp area.

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Cholatse above the Chola valley
Cholatse above the Chola valley.
Duration
26 daysOutline programme
Summit objective
6,440 mRoute objective
Season
Spring / AutumnAsk for current dates
Experience
Technical peak climbingPeak climbing

A closer look at the journey.

Cholatse is a technical mountain objective between the Gokyo and Khumbu valleys. The approach makes a long acclimatization circuit through Gokyo and over Cho La, continuing to the Everest Base Camp area before reaching the climbing base. The mountain phase demands experienced alpine climbers who can move efficiently on steep snow, ice and exposed terrain.

The programme combines an approach trek with time for climbing preparation and a summit attempt. Snow, glacier conditions and weather can change the route and daily plan. Tell us about your mountain experience before booking so that we can agree the equipment, guiding and preparation needed for this particular climb.

  • Gokyo approach and Cho La crossing
  • Everest Base Camp area acclimatization circuit
  • Technical Cholatse climbing camps

The route, day by day.

This is an outline programme. The team will confirm the route and arrangements with you, allowing for weather, access and local conditions.

Day 1-2Kathmandu preparation

Arrive, check equipment and complete the climbing briefing.

Day 3Lukla to Phakding

Fly to Lukla and begin the approach trek.

Day 4-5Namche acclimatization

Reach Namche and include an acclimatization day.

Day 6-8Gokyo valley approach

Trek through Dole and Machhermo towards Gokyo.

Day 9-10Gokyo viewpoint and Cho La

Make an acclimatization hike as conditions allow, then cross Cho La towards Dzongla.

Day 11-13Everest Base Camp area

Continue through Lobuche and Gorak Shep, visit the base camp area and return towards Cholatse Base Camp.

Day 14-16Climbing preparation

Prepare the route, equipment and camp plan at the mountain base.

Day 17-20Higher camps and summit window

Use the agreed camp sequence for a summit attempt and descent when conditions allow.

Day 21-23Return to Lukla

Descend through Pangboche and Namche towards Lukla.

Day 24Fly to Kathmandu

Return by air, subject to weather.

Day 25Kathmandu reserve day

Rest and allow time for flight delays or sightseeing.

Day 26Departure

Transfer for your onward journey.

A clear plan and quotation.

Request an itemised quotation for your group, dates and preferred level of support. Agree the inclusions before booking travel.

Services to discuss

  • Agree the permit arrangements and in-country transport in your quotation.
  • Agree the guiding, porter support and responsibilities on the mountain.
  • Agree accommodation, camp facilities and the meals provided at each stage.
  • Agree shared climbing equipment, communications and emergency arrangements.

Budget separately

  • International travel, entry documents and costs outside the agreed programme.
  • Personal climbing equipment and insurance appropriate to the itinerary.
  • Personal spending, tips and any separately agreed climbing staff bonuses.
  • Additional accommodation, transport or evacuation costs if plans change.

Before you set out.

Advanced alpine snow and ice climbing, strong rope skills and previous high-altitude expedition experience are required.

Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu, trekking lodges or approach camps, and tented climbing camps.

Use the trip preparation guide to plan equipment, travel documents and questions for the team.

Is the summit attempt on a fixed day?

The itinerary gives a climbing window. Your guide will adjust the attempt, rest days and descent to the conditions and the team. Reaching the summit cannot be guaranteed.

What experience should I discuss before booking?

Advanced alpine snow and ice climbing, strong rope skills and previous high-altitude expedition experience are required. Share details of your recent climbs, altitude experience and rope skills so that we can assess the preparation and support required.

Other journeys to explore.

Everest, Lhotse and Makalu catching the last sun, seen from Gokyo Ri

Tell us where you want to stand.

Bhim PaudelExecutive Director

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Season

Highest altitude so far, any summits, and when you can travel.