Nestled between Khumbu and Gokyo valleys in Nepal’s Eastern Himalayan Range, Cholatse represents a spectacular Peak to climb that requires some technical skills. Cholatse (6423m) is also known as Jobo Lhaptshan and falls in Khumbu region. Cholatse and Taboche (6,501m) are connected by a long ridge and its east face consists of Chola glacier.
Climbing Cholatse Peak is comparatively harder than other peaks of similar height mainly due to steep lines. The breathtaking South West Ridge of Cholotse Peak is truly a hidden gem of the Himalaya and undoubtedly a solid mountaineering goal for many experienced climbers. We highly recommend Cholatse Peak only to those who have rock and ice climbing experience. The south and north face were scaled in 1982 and 1984 respectively. The first solo ascent was accomplished on April 15, 2005 by Ueli Steck through the north face.
We have designed a 21 day itinerary for climbing Cholatse that includes rest days at some important locations to give better acclimatization to your body. Though this itinerary follows the same route for both ascending and descending, it is also possible to go to Cholatse Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and return via Pangboche in a clockwise direction.
On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be greeted with flower garlands/Khadas. Our representative will then take you to your hotel. If time prevails, you will visit office for paperwork.
Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, you will visit popular world heritage monuments in Kathmandu including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swoyambhunath, and Pashupatinath. Alternatively, you can also choose Bhakatapur and Patan sightseeing. By late afternoon, you will drive back to your hotel.
Stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After early morning breakfast, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and drive to the domestic airport terminal. Receive your boarding pass and fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) that takes about 35 minutes. The flight offers you up close views of the Himalayas and romantic landscapes of hills, farms and rivers.
On arrival to Lukla, you will begin 3 hours trek to Phakding (2640 m.). You start your trek from Lukla with a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi River. Mt. Nupla (5885m) which can be seen in the distance is a peak atop the Kongde Ridge. You descend a mountainside path that merges into your route to Everest, with views to a wonderful valley to your right; and Mt. Kusum Kang (6367m.) to the far end.
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Namche Bazaar (3440m) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and opens out only where it faces the Bhote Koshi.
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It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization to the high altitude before heading off towards Tyangboche. For acclimatization you walk up to Khumjung where you can visit a monastery. You can also enjoy the splendid views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawoche, and Kwangde and so on. Or you can take an hour's walk up to Syangboche (3800m.) where Everest View Hotel is situated above Namche for an outstanding view of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru.
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As you climb through the forested zone, the incline eases and a splendid view appears. You continue climbing the mountainside diagonally until you come to the stone gate built by the lamas which marks your entry into Tyangboche (3860m).
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Dingboche is a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls protecting the crops of barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals.
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There are some breathtaking views of the North face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge as you explore this beautiful valley that leads up to Island Peak. The walk is short with a good chance to relax in the afternoon. Another option is to hike up to Chhukum, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Island peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Tawoche peak and others.
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Trek from Dingboche to Dzongla (4620m.) takes about seven hours. It gives you excellent views of Lobuche, Lobuche west, Chola Tse, Tabuche and many other mountains.
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Trek from Dzongla to Cholatse Base Camp (5000 m) which takes about four hours.
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Rest day in Base Camp.
Stay overnight at camp.
Rope fixing and route making day.
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Climb from Base Camp to Camp I (5700 m).
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Climb from Camp I to Camp II (6000m).
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Summit Cholatse Peak (6423m) and descend to Camp I or Base Camp.
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Spare day in case of weather or any reason.
Stay overnight at camp.
You trek all the way downhill passing Dugla. The spectacular views of Chola Tse, Tawoche, Ama Dablam, Pokalde, Thamserku, Kangtega and many more compensates you tiredness.
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From Pangboche, the trail descends steeply and slightly passing by several villages and numerous teashops, the trail ascends steeply to Sanasa where local Sherpa people sell the Tibetan goods.
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The last day of your trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla. The trek is pleasant, except for few short uphill climbs and then down to the Bhote- Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb of 45 minutes will bring you to Lukla for your overnight stay.
Stay overnight at lodge.
You take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu takes about 35 minutes.
Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.
Mountaineering Equipments
Crampons, Ice axe, Helmet, Harness, Lock and unlock Carabineers, Shovel, Climbing pack, Rope, Ski poles, Desender/abseil device, Jummer (Asender) , Tapes, Prusik Loops, Rappel device, Hand Warmer (if possible)
Clothing and Wears
Trekking shoes with spare laces, Mountaineering Boots, Plastic or leather for mountaineering boots, Gore-Tex pants, Long shorts, Insulated Parka, Jumper, Waterproof Jackets, Down Jacket, Fleece Vest, Wool cap, Neck Gaiter, Gloves, Climbing Socks, Thermal Underwear, Sandals, Snow Goggle
Essential Gears
Backpack, Duffle bag, Sleeping Bag, sleeping pad, Tents
Gadgets
Map, Compass, Camera, GPS, Two way radios, Binoculars, Head Lamp, Flashlight
Sun Protection Items
Sun glasses, sun scream, Lip balm
Medical
First aid Kit (Brufen / Ibuprofens, Antibiotic, Diamox, Paracetamol, Handy Plaster, Crack Bandage, Tincture Iodine, etc.)
Other Essentials
Energy Bars, Water bottle, Water Purification Tablets, Toiletries, Trekking poles, Pocket knife, raincoat, Satellite Phone, Altimeter