• Duration:17 Nights 18 Days
  • Max. Altitude: 6189m
  • Group Size: 1-8
  • Activity: Trekking & Climbing
  • Pick Up: TIA Airport

About Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing

Climbing Island Peak through the Gokyo Valley is an amazing way to experience the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trek is challenging but rewarding, and the views from the summit of Island Peak are simply stunning. The trek begins in Namche Bazaar, and from there, it follows the Dudh Koshi River to the Gokyo Valley. The Gokyo Valley is home to several beautiful lakes, including Gokyo Ri, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

After spending a few days in the Gokyo Valley, the trek crosses Cho La Pass, which is at an altitude of 5,420 meters. From Cho La Pass, there are panoramic views of the Everest massif, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The final section of the trek leads to Island Peak Base Camp, which is at an altitude of 5,100 meters. From Base Camp, there is a short climb to the summit of Island Peak, which is at an altitude of 6,189 meters.

Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing Route 

The Gokyo Cho la Island Peak Route is a challenging trek that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Everest region. The route begins in Kathmandu, where you will spend a few days acclimatizing and preparing for the trek. You will then fly to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, and begin your trek to Namche Bazar. From Namche Bazar, you will continue to Gokyo Lakes, where you will have the opportunity to ascend Gokyo Ri for stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You will then cross Cho La Pass, a challenging pass at 5,420 meters, and descend to Dzongla. From Dzongla, you will follow the trail to Island Base Camp, where you will acclimatize for a few days before attempting the summit of Island Peak. After summiting Island Peak, you will return to Island Base Camp and then backtrack to Namche Bazar and Lukla. You will then fly back to Kathmandu, where your journey will end.

The Best Season for Gokyo Cho La Pass and Island Peak Climbing 

The best seasons for Island Peak Climbing are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is generally good during these seasons, and there is less chance of snow and rain. However, the winter is also a great time to climb if you are well prepared for the cold weather. In the crisp and cold month of December, the views of the mountains are crystal clear and there are fewer trekkers around.

Why choose Annapurna Foothills for your Gokyo Cho La Island Peak Climbing?

We are a Nepal-based local operator with extensive experience in the Himalayas. Our Sherpa trekking guides are highly experienced, competent, and professional. We place a strong emphasis on safety and quality. We use top-notch equipment and logistics, and we have a strict safety protocol in place. We are dedicated to operating eco-friendly trips, adhering to the principles of Leave No Trace, and contributing to ethical and responsible tourism.

We are an eco-friendly trekking company. We are committed to preserving and protecting the environment. We offer excellent value for your investment. We provide top-notch service at a competitive price—expert guidance and support from our Sherpa trekking guides.

Risk Management

Gokyo Cho La Island Peak Climbing is a challenging but rewarding experience. However, it is essential to be aware of the risks involved. Annapurna Foothills Treks, we understand the risks and have taken steps to mitigate them. Our team of expert Sherpa guides is highly experienced and qualified. They have extensive knowledge of the Everest region and are skilled in dealing with potential hazards. We also have reliable emergency communication systems in place and well-structured evacuation plans. We place safety above all else and are committed to keeping you safe throughout your journey. Taking the necessary precautions can help you have a safe and enjoyable climb.

Equipment and Gear

We have included in the package as following climbing equipment, Mountaineering Boots, Crampons, Harness, Ice Axe, 2 x Tape slings, 2 x Screwgate Karabiners, Descender / Abseil, Device (Jumar), Prussic Loops, and a Helmet.

 

Highlights of Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing

  • firstly,the idea of having Gokyo Lake, Gokyo Ri, Cho La Pass, and Island Peak in a single Trip is just amazing.
  • gokyo valley is less crowded compared to Everest Base Camp trekking  trail
  • gokyo’s glacial lakes and amazing view from Gokyo Ri
  • well set up Camps at Island Peak Base Camp and High Camp
  • leaded by our Experienced Local Sherpa Climbing Guide
  • island peak summit view is one of the best thing to witness in the Khumbu Himalaya

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, 1,300 m/4,265 ft

Flying to Kathmandu is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. On a clear day, you will get a panoramic view of the snow-capped towering peaks. After completing the visa formalities in airport, collect your luggage downstairs. As you exit the airport terminal, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives carrying your name on our company’s’ signboard, Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition. Moving forward, you’ll be taken to your hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Once you reach at hotel, you’ll be welcomed by them as well and after that you can relax in your room.

  • Hotel

The Managing Director of our company will be there to meet you in the hotel and provide more information about the expedition. Your dues must be cleared before we proceed on the trip. We will finalize paperwork-permit for your trip and make a final check of your climbing equipment. In case you need additional trekking equipment, you will have a chance to buy it today. Sightseeing tours of Kathmandu Valley are also an option.

  • Breakfast and Welcome Dinner
  • Hotel

Flying from Kathmandu to Lukla

We head to the domestic airport for our early morning flight to Lukla. From the twin otter plane, we will enjoy some amazing views of several of the world’s highest mountains including Cho Oyu, 8153m, Lhotse, 8516m, Gauri Shankar, 7145m, Menlungtse, 7181m, and Mount Everest. Because of Air Traffic Congestion (ATC), direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is only operated in off seasons (December - February, June - August. Usually, it takes around 40 minutes to reach Lukla.

Flying from Manthali to Lukla

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the busiest time in Everest region because of which Lukla airport gets congested. So, during these months, all the flights to Lukla are re-routed from Manthali. Drive to Manthali from Kathmandu is somewhat 5-6 hours. Accordingly, leave for Manthali at 1:45 a.m. (approx.) on tourist vehicle. By doing so, will reach Manthali on time to catch our flight to Lukla. From Manthali, it takes around 15- 20 minutes (depending upon weather condition) to reach Lukla.

 Helicopter Option

Flying in helicopter is a unique experience that adds a touch of luxury to your journey, allowing you to enjoy the pristine beauty of Khumbu Himalaya in style. You can book your spot for a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla for an additional USD 300 Dollar per Person. Do note that the price is quoted on a sharing basis of 5 people.

At Lukla, our support crew will be waiting to welcome us. After distributing our luggage among the strong Sherpa porters who will so cheerfully carry our burdens for the trip, we set out downhill into the Dudh Koshi (milk river) Valley. The trails in these parts reflect the large roll Tibetan Buddhism plays in the lives of the Sherpa people. There are many mani stones, which are large stones with Tibetan prayers chiseled into them, all along the trails. You will soon become familiar with the customary way of passing chortens, mani stones, and prayer wheels in a clockwise direction. We reach Phakdingma, a small village beside the Dudh Kosi River. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today will be one of the hardest days of the trek. So, we take it slowly, giving our body a chance to acclimatize and our senses a chance to take in the sights into the heart of Khumbu. From Phakding, the trail follows Dudh Koshi valley north for 2-3 hours to Monjo, the entrance to the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. There is a good view of Thamserku, 6608m. We follow the river to the Hillary Bridge, a fantastic suspension bridge that spans the deep chasm over the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi. From here, it is a tough climb to Namche. The trail continues to climb through pine forest. About half way up there, is a vantage point that provides our first view of Mt. Everest rising majestically from behind the great ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse.

Namche is a beautiful village in itself with colorful houses and lodges and prayer flags, and the setting is majestic as it is spread on the steep sides of a horse-shoe shaped valley facing the beautiful Kongde Ri Peak. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

If we are acclimatizing well, we will want to walk up a hill for spectacular viewpoint where we can see all the way up the Imja Khola Valley to where the glacial moraine begins below the towering Mt Everest, 8848 m. Other spectacular peaks vosoble from here are Taweche, 6542m, Thamserku, 6808m, Kantega, 6685 m, Ama Dablam, 6856m, Nuptse, 7896m and Lhotse, 8511m. Besides, the great bazaar with a wonderful variety of shops to visit, today gives us a chance to visit the Sherpa Cultural Centre which has an interesting collection of mountaineering items and photographs. There is also the option of a day walk to the pretty village of Khumjung where Sir Edmund Hillary built his “Schoolhouse in the Clouds” and the famed Khunde hospital. We can see the “scalp of a yeti” at Khumjung monastery.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today as we trek, Ama Dablam, 6812m, one of the most beautiful peaks in the world will be showing its glimpse to us in a distance. As we go along, the trail follows the hillside of Khumbila and reaches our first pass, Mon La, from where the trail descends steeply to Phortse Drangka village. We leave the Everest trail and branch off following the Gokyo Valley along the tree-line until we reach the small mountain settlement of Dole. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

The trail goes through small yak mountain pastures, waterfalls and small villages namely Khele, Lhabarma and Luza before reaching Machermo. Machermo is a small village looking out on Cholatse, 6440m, Taweche, 6542m and facing the Kyajo glacier. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

The trail from Machhermo climbs a ridge from where you will get an excellent view. In front of you, will be the great Gokyo Valley with its streams and lakes, and the Cho-Oyu peak, 8153m and Kantega peak , 6686m and Ama Dablam, 6812m on your back. We descend to the river bank below before beginning the steep climb up to a small mountain lake from where the trail levels out and follows along to Longponga Lake, 4690m, then finally up a boulder-strewn path to glorifying Gokyo.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

In the morning, we climb for around two hours up to Gokyo Peak (5360m). This is a straight-forward but steep climb and also tiring because of the altitude. However, it will be worth the effort as this is one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the entire Khumbu region. From the rocky summit, four peaks over 8000 metres can be seen: Everest, 8848m, Cho Oyo, 8153m, Lhotse, 8511m and Makalu, 8481m along with other awesome peaks.

From here, we follow the lateral moraines and walk for two hours on glacial scree across the Ngozumpa glacier, a series of ups and downs. After crossing the glacier, we reach the yak herders' huts and tea houses of Thagnag. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

This day will be a big challenge. You should carry at least 2 liters of water, as it is unavailable to buy in this area. We have to start early in the morning between 4:30-5:30. The first two hours we have a steep climb up to yak pastures which we call the Cho La High Camp, though there aren’t any houses there, rather you will see Buddhist prayers flags blowing in the wind. The next 1.5 hours is not so steep. But because of loose stones and uneven ground, we recommend that you use walking sticks, be careful and take the advice of our well experienced guide. The ascent to the snowy Cho La pass is very steep and it will take about 2 hours. From the pass, there is a superb view of Dzongla Valley and its lake as well as the impressive North face of Jobo Lhaptshan, 6300m. The descent to Dzongla, on the Cho La glacier is an endurance test.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Continuing along the moraine of the glacier, with great views of Pumori, Nuptse, Ama dablam and  Makalu, 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

From Chhukung, the path climbs steeply towards South and turns East following the valley along the moraine from Lhotse glacier. We continue a short yet pleasant walk along the river side which leads to Big-Rock. From this point, a 40 minute climb will take us to Island Peak Base Camp. After Lunch, our Sherpa guides will provide a short training on peak climbing techniques and using climbing gear such as ice axes, climbing boots and crampons, harnesses, ascenders and on how to go up and down using ropes.  We set up tents at base camp for sleeping overnight. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

Today, we have to start early in the morning to climb through the rock channel. Although it is not difficult, there are many short rock steps to be crossed before you come across the other side of channel. Then the trail leads to the ridge line where you traverse the snout of summit glacier. You will need to rope up for the glacier as it contains several crevasses which leads with little difficulty, to a 100 m snow and ice slope (40-45°) on which the guides will fix a rope. From the top of this slope, 3 rope lengths along a sharp summit ridge will take you to the top. After enjoying the summit view, you will descend all the way to Chhukung, 4710m.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

There is no guarantee that there will be favorable weather for scheduled summit day. In such case, we might not be be able to take the top of Mera Peak. The reason can be; due to bad weather or any other reason like someone in the group having altitude related problems, etc. So, this extra day gives you some flexibility so that you can attempt for the summit the following day. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

After having early breakfast, we trek down to Dingboche and again pass through the Pangboche village, the same trail we used on the way up. The trail leads down to a river. After crossing the river, we walk for an hour up through the forest and reach Tengboche after continuously to Namche.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Boosted by all our new red blood cells, we rush down the footpath toward Sagarmatha National Park gate, in Jorsale. Later, Lukla's footpath leads us back to the first villages we saw two weeks ago: Gumila, Phakdingma, and Choplung. The high peaks disappear behind the hills. This last evening in the mountains is the ideal opportunity for a farewell party with your sherpa guides and porters, and a good chance to sample some chhang, try Nepali and Sherpa dance and look back on the memorable trekking experiences. The staff will be hoping for some precious and well deserved tips.

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

Flying from Lukla to Kathmandu

During off season in Nepal which refers to months like December - February, June – August so travelers can enjoy direct flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. It approximately takes 40 minutes to reach Kathmandu from Lukla on a flight. From domestic airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel on a private tourist vehicle.

Flying from Lukla to Manthali

The flight from Lukla to Manthali is takes approximately 20 minutes. Afterwards, we drive back to Kathmandu from Manthali which usually takes 5-6 hours (hours may differ depending on traffic condition). Expect to fly from Lukla to Manthali on peak seasons: Spring (March –May) & autumn (September – November). Upon reaching Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel on a shared tourist vehicle.

 Helicopter Option

Flying in helicopter is a unique experience that adds a touch of luxury to your journey, allowing you to enjoy the pristine beauty of Khumbu Himalaya in style. You can book your spot for a direct helicopter flight from Lukla to Kathmandu for an additional USD 300 Dollar per Person. Do note that the price is quoted on a sharing basis of 5 people.

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

We will accompany you to the International Airport in time to board your flight. 

  • Breakfast

What's Included

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
  • Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, 4 nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis
  • Accommodation during Trek ; local lodges 12 nights (twin-share rooms ,beds with comfortable foam mattress and pillows)
  • Accommodation during Camping ; Meals during One night at Base Camp and One night High Camp (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tang juice, fruit, tea and coffee)
  • All standard meals(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
  • English speaking experienced and certified Sherpa Guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
  • All Camping Equipment required during the trek, sleeping tents/mattresses, kitchen tent, kitchen equipment
  • Climbing rope, Ice screws, Snow bar
  • Trekking cook, kitchen staff, Trek Sherpa and other support staff while on Island peak climbing
  • One Sherpa guide-assistant if group size is more than 4 Trekkers.
  • Porters: One porter for Two Trekkers basis in all of our Climbing Trips
  • Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • Annapurna Foothill’s Duffle bag for Trekking.
  • Annapurna Foothill's T-shirt
  • Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc.
  • First aid medicine kit.
  • Island Peak Climbing Permit
  • Sagarmatha National Park Fee, TIMS permits & all required permits or Official Documentation.
  • Round-Trip airfare between Kathmandu and Lukla (Airport Tax Included)
  • Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu Excess baggage fees
  • All government and local taxes.
  • Island Peak climbing certificates issued from the respective body of Nepal Government.
  • All required Personal and Group Climbing Equipments and Gears
     

Personal Climbing Gears includes:

  • Mountaineering/ Climbing Boots
  • Crampons
  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Ice Axe
  • 2 x Screwgate Carabiners ( Lock and UnLock)
  • Descender ( Figure 8, Belay Device)
  • Ascender (Jumar)
  • Prussic Loops
  • 2 x Tape slings

What’s Excluded

  • Your Personal Travel Insurance.
  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
  • Lunch & Dinner in cities - allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurants.
  • Beverages (drinks, mineral water,boiled water and beer).
  • Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
  • Any personal expenses not mentioned in above services.
  • Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early return from Trek (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary.

Departure Dates

FromToStatusPrice  
Start Date18 Mar, 2025End Date04 Apr, 2025AvailableUS$ 2450

Departure Note:

Guaranteed- We already have trekkers booked for those dates and you can join the group.

Available - The date is available to book and once you confirm your trip it will be guaranteed.

Limited - The departure date is filling fast and only limited seats are available to join.

Closed- The Trip cannot be booked on that specific date. Contact us for customized dates.
 

The departure dates are your arrival dates in Nepal.


We have set dates for departure to the Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing. So, pick your preferable date and let the adventure begin.

If the date you prefer is not listed on our departure dates then you can contact us directly to book the trip on your own desired date.

We have listed the price up to 08 trekkers at maximum. If you are more than 08 trekkers, then please feel free to contact us for amazing discounted group price and further booking process.

Private Trips to Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing is possible. Contact us to design your own private trips with you loved ones.

Solo Trips: Single trekkers are always welcome to join the climb. On your arrival at Kathmandu, you’ll have a single room in Kathmandu Hotel as per your requirement and have to share a room at the local teahouses during the trekking.

Useful Info

Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing Packing List:

“There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” Alfred Wainwright

Are you planning your dream trip to the Himalaya of Nepal? Make sure you have packed well for your hiking, trekking and climbing experiences in Nepal. The time period of your visit also determines your packing list. The best trekking seasons for beginning your Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Climbing are spring and autumn. During these seasons, maximum flow of trekkers can be witnessed. Weather during spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) are likely to be mild with clear blue sky and outstanding mountain views. But nights can get freezing cold at higher elevation. So, packing appropriate clothing, gear, and equipments for your Gokyo Cho La Pass Island Peak Expedition is a must for lifetime memorable trekking and climbing experience in Everest region of Nepal.

A strategically way of packing will be keeping in mind that your stuffs will be packed in two bags. One will be the daypack that you carry every day on your trek. Pack your daypack as light as possible by carrying only the essentials so that you can relish your moments in wilderness freely. Pack anything you may need each day during your hike in your daypack. Other bag will be your duffle bag which will be carried by your Porter from the very beginning of your trek till the end.

Upper Body:

  • Warm beanie hat
  • Tubular Headwear (buff)
  • Sun Hat or Cap (cap and buff all fit under your hood)
  • Polarized Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Headlamp (Black Diamond / Petzl) with spare batteries
  • Sunscreen with factor 50+
  • Upper Body (Core body):
  • 3 Light and trekking weight thermal tops
  • 3 T-shirts or cool-max trekking shirts
  • 1 Fleece Jacket or pull over (Merino, soft shell)
  • 1 Waterproof shell jacket with hood (lightweight, breathable)
  • 1 Down Jacket

Lower Body:

  • 2 Thermal base layers (merino or polartec power dry)
  • 2 Pairs trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
  • 1 Heavy weight hiking trousers (wind proof soft shell for warmth at higher altitude)
  • 1 Waterproof/ Rain pants
  • 2 Light Hiking shorts
  • 2 Fleece Pants
  • 4 Under wears (merino)

Hands:

  • 1 Lightweight gloves or liner gloves
  • 1 Pair shell gloves (Gore-Tex)
  • 1 Waterproof outer glove

Feet:

  • 3 Warm Trekking socks (smart wool)
  • 3 Pairs of liner socks
  • 2 Pairs of thick/ warm socks
  • 2 Thick wool socks to wear at night in lodges
  • Trekking Boots (waterproof, ankle support with rigid sole)
  • Lightweight Rubber Shoes / Trainers / Trail Runner to wear at the Tea Houses

Accessories:

  • 1 Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches) 40 - 50 Liters
  • 2 Water bottle or camel bag, 1-liter (one with an insulated cover is recommended)
  • Large duffle bag (and a lock as the porters will carry this)
  • A pair of adjustable Trekking Pole
  • Camera with extra battery
  • Sleeping bag (- 15 C depending upon trips)
  • Sleeping Bag liner
  • Ear Plugs
  • Portable Solar Charger
  • Smart Trekking Watch

Personal First Aid Kit:

Please do note that our trekking guides will be too carrying the first aid kit with them especially for the guests and the entire team as a whole. Still, we suggest the following items to be carried with you while trekking in the Himalaya of Nepal.

  • Personal Medication
  • Diarrhea Stopper (e.g. Imodium)
  • Paracetamol Tablets
  • Small Swiss Army knife (which has knife, scissors and tweezers)
  • Diamox for altitude (consult your doctor about this)
  • Water Purification tablets or drops
  • Blister kit / Zinc Tape
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Dressing Gauze
  • Antibiotic Cream

Client Reviews

Island Peak, Gokyo, Cho La, Kala Patthar

- Felix Riedel, Germany

Excellent Trip and wonderfull experience. Well organised Trip and very nice people. Defintely would do it again.

Gokyo Cho La Pass and Island Peak

- Lukas, Germany

I did the above mentioned trip in December 2016. The trip was perfectly planned and everything went smoothly. The itinerary allowed for perfect acclimatisation, especially having two nights at Island Peak Base Camp. 

Tashi, the trekking guide for the trip picked me up at the airport and helped me through my first days in Kathmandu before we flew to Lukla. In Lukla we met the highly experienced climbing guide Mingmar. So I was lucky and travelled with two guides right from the beginning. Both guides were really knowledgeable and we had lots of great conversations. 

While crossing the glacier at Cho La Pass and during the climb on Island Peak I felt perfectly safe and in really good hands. For my next time in Nepal I will definitely go with Annapurna Foothills again. 

Best wishes from Germany, 
Lukas

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