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.
Stay overnight at lodge.
Namche Bazaar (3440m) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and opens out only where it faces the Bhote Koshi.
Stay overnight at lodge.
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.
Stay overnight at lodge.
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).
Stay overnight at lodge.
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.
Stay overnight at lodge.
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.
Stay overnight at lodge.
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.
Stay overnight at lodge
Trek from Dzongla to Cholatse Base Camp (5000 m) which takes about four hours.
Stay overnight in camp.
Rest day in Base Camp. Stay overnight at camp.
Rope fixing and route making day. Stay overnight at camp.
Climb from Base Camp to Camp I (5700 m). Stay overnight at camp.
Climb from Camp I to Camp II (6000m). Stay overnight at camp.
Summit Cholatse Peak (6423m) and descend to Camp I or Base Camp. Stay overnight at camp.
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.
Stay overnight at lodge.
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.
Stay overnight at lodge.
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.
Cholatse lies between the Khumbu and Gokyo Valleys in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. It is near the Chola Pass, which connects the EBC trail to the Gokyo Lakes trail. From a distance, especially near Dzongla or Gokyo, Cholatse is unmistakable—its knife-edge ridges and steep north face are a commanding presence in the skyline.
Cholatse is considered a highly technical peak. It involves:
Unlike trekking peaks like Island or Mera, Cholatse demands previous mountaineering experience. It’s not suitable for beginners but is perfect for those aiming to step up to more serious alpine objectives.
To climb Cholatse, you should have:
Experience on peaks like Lobuche East, Ama Dablam, or Mont Blanc can serve as a solid foundation.
A standard Cholatse expedition takes about 20–23 days, including:
This duration also includes the trek back to Lukla and accounts for acclimatization and rest days.
Cholatse is classified as a Group A expedition peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), so you will need:
The two best climbing seasons are:
Winter climbs are rare due to extreme cold, while monsoon season (June–August) is dangerous due to avalanches and unstable snow conditions.
Accommodation includes:
Teahouses/lodges along the trekking route (Lukla to Dzongla)
Tented camps at Cholatse Base Camp and High Camp
The expedition team sets up dining, kitchen, and sleeping tents with all the necessary camping gear. Meals are nutritious and high-calorie, cooked by experienced expedition cooks.
Yes, significantly. Cholatse is a technical peak requiring advanced mountaineering skills, while Island and Mera Peaks are considered trekking peaks with minimal technical climbing. Cholatse involves:
Climbers often tackle Cholatse after gaining confidence on easier 6,000m peaks.
You need to be in peak physical condition. The expedition demands:
Absolutely. At 6,440 meters, altitude sickness (AMS) is a serious risk. Symptoms may include:
Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential. Most itineraries include rest days and acclimatization hikes. Your guide will monitor symptoms and carry emergency medication and oxygen if needed.
Climbing any Himalayan peak has risks, and Cholatse is no exception. The main hazards include:
Choosing an experienced guiding company with a solid safety protocol, trained guides, and contingency plans is essential for a safe expedition.
Cholatse offers a pure alpine experience with fewer climbers, stunning views, and a real sense of accomplishment. Unlike more commercialized peaks, Cholatse remains relatively untouched and less trafficked, giving climbers:
It’s ideal for mountaineers preparing for even more technical climbs or just looking for a memorable and authentic Himalayan adventure.
Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Cholatse Peak climbing. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.
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
