DAWN IN NEPAL
ADVENTURES P.LTD
Cholatse (also known as Jobo Lhaptshan) is a technical peak in the Khumbu region of the eastern Nepal Himalaya. Cholatse is connected to Taboche (6,501m) via a southern col. The Chola glacier descends off the east face and feeds into the famous Cholalake. The dominant east face and north ridge of Cholatse can be seen from Dughla, on the trail to Mount Everest base camp. To the west of Cholatse lies the famous trail to Gokyo and eventually to Cho Oyu or Nangpa La via the Ngozumpa glacier. Cholatse was first climbed by a British-American party via the southwest ridge on April 22, 1982, by Vern Clevenger, Galen Rowell, John Roskelley, and Bill O'Connor. The expedition was led by Al Read, the man who is credited as being the first person to introduce bungee jumping in Nepal. The north face was successfully scaled in 1984. The first solo ascent was accomplished on April 15, 2005, by Ueli Steck through the north face. Cholatse expedition starts as you take a scenic flight to Lukla. We take Gokyo approach to the mountain where the standard route of Cholatse lie. After climbing Gokyo Ri (5357 m) for acclimatization, we’ll continue trekking to Cholatse Base Camp. We’ll place two camps, standard for a technical 6000er, at C1 (5700 m) and C2 (6200 m). The summit offers a majestic panoramic view of the entire Mahalangur (Everest) range. Finally, we’ll return down to Namche and final departure from Lukla. Cholatse is generally a tough climbing challenge among the 6000ers. It is a technically difficult peak and requires sound knowledge of steep ice climbing, mixed climbing, and careful handling of ropes. We recommended Cholatse Peak for those climbers who are experienced in ice and rock climbing. Only a few climbers get success in Cholatse. However, if you have a thing for technical climbing, Cholatse is a perfect climb for you. Especially with our veteran guides with decades of experience, we assure you we’ll manage and organize with the best of our ability to help you achieve your dream summit.
Duration
30 Days
Difficulty Level
Challenging
Trip Start and End
Kathmandu-Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring/Autumn
Trip Area
Khumbu Range
Max Elevation
6,440m / 21,128ft
Per Day Walk
5 - 6 Hours
Group Size
1-25
Accomodation
Hotels, Lodge and Tents
Climb one of the region’s most demanding 6,440‑meter peaks with steep, narrow ridges and mixed terrain that demand advanced rock, ice, and mixed climbing skills.
Enjoy awe‑inspiring, panoramic views of iconic peaks such as Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Makalu as you ascend the Khumbu region.
Start your adventure with a thrilling scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where you’ll immediately be immersed in the dramatic Himalayan landscape.
Trek through traditional Sherpa villages, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the warm hospitality and rich culture of the Everest region.
The expedition itinerary includes multiple acclimatization days (such as hikes to Gokyo Ri) and technical preparation sessions to help you adjust safely to high altitude.
Led by experienced, government‑licensed guides and Sherpa support teams, every step—from base camp setup to the summit push—is safely coordinated.
A detail description of Itinerary
Land at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer by private vehicle to your hotel, and enjoy a welcome dinner and expedition briefing in the evening.
Full-day guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites (Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath). Gear check and final briefing for the trek/climb.
Early morning domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Begin trekking from Lukla to Phakding (approx. 3–4 hours). Overnight in Phakding.
Trek from Phakding to the bustling Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar (approx. 5–6 hours). Overnight at a teahouse in Namche.
Rest day with light hiking around Namche (optional visit to local markets or viewpoints). Overnight in Namche to allow your body to acclimatize.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (approx. 6–7 hours) through scenic trails and forests. Overnight in Dole.
Continue trekking from Dole to Machhermo (approx. 4–5 hours). Overnight in Machhermo.
Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (approx. 4–5 hours) with stunning views along the way. Overnight in Gokyo.
Early morning hike up to Gokyo Ri (approx. 5 hours) for panoramic views of the Khumbu Himalayas. Descend and overnight in Gokyo.
Short trek from Gokyo to Thangna (approx. 3–4 hours). Overnight in Thangna.
Trek from Thangna to Dzongla (approx. 5–6 hours). Overnight in Dzongla.
Trek from Dzongla to the Cholatse Base Camp (approx. 5–6 hours). Set up camp at Base Camp and overnight in tents.
Rest day at Base Camp to acclimatize and attend a technical briefing with your climbing team. Overnight in camp.
Begin the technical climb from Base Camp to Camp I (approx. 4–5 hours). Overnight at Camp I in tents.
Continue ascending from Camp I to Camp II (approx. 3–4 hours) along fixed rope routes. Overnight at Camp II.
Use this day for additional acclimatization, gear checks, and route planning before the summit push. Overnight at Camp II.
Early start for the summit bid of Cholatse Peak (target approx. 6,440 m). After reaching the summit, descend back to Camp II. Overnight at Camp II.
Gradual descent from Camp II back to Cholatse Base Camp (approx. 5–6 hours). Overnight in Base Camp tents.
Additional rest and pack-up day at Base Camp before beginning the trek back. Overnight in camp.
Begin the descent by trekking from Base Camp to the village of Pangboche (approx. 5–6 hours). Overnight in Pangboche (teahouse/lodge).
Continue descending from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar (approx. 5–6 hours). Overnight in Namche.
Trek back from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (approx. 6 hours). Overnight in Lukla or a nearby lodge.
Take a domestic flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your Kathmandu hotel. Evening at leisure.
Enjoy a free day for rest, shopping, or optional sightseeing in Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Explore the ancient cities of Patan or Bhaktapur with a guided tour. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Optional visits to museums, local bazaars, or relax in the city. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepalese cuisine and cultural performances. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight.
➤ Technical Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jackets), Waterproof/windproof outer shell, Trekking and insulated pants
➤ Accessories: Warm socks, light & heavy-duty gloves, Hats, balaclavas, neck gaiters, Sunglasses with UV protection
➤ Mountaineering Gear: High‑altitude mountaineering boots, Crampons, Ice axe, Climbing harness, Helmet, Locking & non‑locking carabiners
➤ Backpacks & Organizers: 65‑liter expedition backpack, Smaller day pack, Waterproof stuff sacks/dry bags
➤ Personal Essentials: Headlamp with spare batteries, Personal first‑aid kit, Water bottles/hydration system, Water purification tools, Personal toiletries & documentation
A: Cholatse is a highly technical peak with steep ridges and mixed terrain (rock, snow, and ice) that demands advanced mountaineering skills, including fixed-line climbing and proper rope work.
A: Yes, due to its technical nature, prior high‑altitude and mixed climbing experience is essential for attempting Cholatse.
A: Risks include high‑altitude illness (AMS, HAPE, HACE), technical climbing hazards, unpredictable weather, and the physical demands of steep, exposed terrain.
A: Cholatse is significantly more technical than many trekking peaks. Its steep, narrow ridges and mixed terrain (rock, snow, and ice) require advanced mountaineering skills and strong technical proficiency.
A: Climbers must be proficient in fixed rope work, ice and mixed climbing techniques, and roped traverses. The expedition involves navigating narrow ridges and technical sections where advanced skills are critical.
A: Comprehensive emergency protocols are in place, including first aid and, if necessary, helicopter evacuation. Nonetheless, climbers should secure personal high‑altitude travel insurance to cover unexpected events.
A: Expeditions follow strict “Leave No Trace” principles. Operators ensure proper waste management, encourage minimal impact practices, and support local conservation efforts to preserve the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
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