Two High Passes Trek via EBC (Chola and Renjo La) Highlights
Enjoy the views of Mount Everest as well as Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many more Himalayan mountain summits.
Join Chola La (5,420 meters) and Renjo La (5,360 meters), two passes above the altitude.
Visit Everest Base Camp (EBC), under the world's tallest peak.
Gokyo Lakes are fine pearls of the lake, packed within such a stunningly beautiful surrounding mountain environment.
Trek into the real traditional Sherpa Villages of Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche.
Visit the magnificent Tengboche Gompa with fantastic views of Mother Earth, and glorious Mount Everest.
Witness yaks, musk deer, and beautiful rhododendron forests.
Trekking through the High Altitude, with stunning scenery with every single step taken.
One needs to walk through the Khumbu Icefall, an exciting beginning on your felicitous arrival to the Everest route.
Sunrise and sunset views from Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri.
Less crowded to experience peace and wilderness.
Interact with Sherpa people willing to share about their culture and lifestyle.
18 days Two High Passes Trek via EBC (Chola and Renjo La) Overview
Everest Base Camp two high pass trek is one rugged adventure worth traveling to undertake a rewarding expedition, mixing a real classic adventure of trekking to Everest Base Camp and crossing two very high mountain passes, Chola La and Renjo La. These two passes are very tough ones to put everyone, including all the trekkers, to a different kind of achievement with some of the most breathtaking views such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan peaks.
This excellent trek could be covered in 18 days with a wonderful rugged mountain trail offering a great variety of internal landscapes and cultural immersion in the villages of the Sherpa people. Traveling is sharing an adventure along a road less traveled to discover lesser-visited parts of Khumbu. The cultural experience of Sherpa culture is felt during the passage here. Beautiful villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Gokyo can be visited in those old monasteries through the very local hospitality.
And it is an adventure or challenge to it, as such high-altitude ecosystems and the serenity of remote Himalayan landscapes come into its viewpoint.
Renjo La Pass
Renjo La Pass's altitude is 5,360 meters, which provides alternative trekking paths to the Everest Base Camp with some scenery. The pass is said to be less crowded compared to Chola La, allowing trekkers to have an even more secluded experience of Khumbu. Apart from a splendid view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, it also has a breathtaking view of the Gokyo Lakes down the valley. It is as challenging and quite steep, but the rewards are rare indeed.
Reaching Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters / 17,590 feet)
Renjo La is one of those steep passes that take you off the more frequented routes into a quieter, more remote area. Not too far away is the enigmatic Gokyo Lakes. The climb is quite arduous, yet a glorious treat awaits you atop the pond for Everest, Lhotse, and the Gokyo Valley. Opposite this point comes the trek down to Lungden, rounding off the crossing. The feeling attained while reaching Renjo La is an accomplishment as well as an exclusive view of the Himalayas.
Chola Pass
One of the toughest and the most thrilling parts of the trek is Chola La. This lofty high-altitude pass is placed at 5,420 meters above sea level and is listed among the highest passes of the Khumbu region. The crossing of Chola requires serious physical preparation and high determination since the trails are thorny and icy, often.
The reward from the summit is nothing short of incredible panoramas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and many of the other peaks in the region. The descent on the other hand will also challenge trekkers as they will have to look after barely holding loose rocks and a slippery terrain. Cross Chola La and it becomes a beautiful trek that inevitably fills the trekkers' hearts with great achievement and gives them a sense of real adventure for walking on the most difficult road.
Reaching Chola La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)
Chola La at high altitude is a demanding pass that tests the mettle of great endurance. The ascent is such that it takes several hours to reach the top, often very rocky and icy. Once the summit is achieved, trekkers get nice views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The descent is equally tough, but you can follow it to Thagnak, just near the Gokyo Lakes. Walking over Chola La is indeed one of the highlights of the whole trek as it also happens to be one of the biggest achievements.
Two High Passes Trek via EBC (Chola and Renjo La) Itinerary
Arrive best in Kathmandu, the shining capital of Nepal, and begin your journey. Transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to your hotel. Ideal for resting up after travel or, if your spirits are high, heading right out into the colorful streets of Kathmandu. Visit spots such as the ancient Durbar Square or the amazing Thamel, the adventure tourism center of Kathmandu, maybe perhaps midnight. Then there will be an evening pre-trek briefing where your guide gives important info concerning the trek route, safety rules, and last-minute changes. It is also a good time to ask questions about the future journey.
Max. Elevation:nullm
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
International and Domestic Airport pick up and drop off by private vehicle as per size of group
Domestic Flight tickets two ways (KTM-LUKLA-KTM) OR (RAMECHHAP -LUKLA-RAMECHHAP)
Transportation Kathmandu-Ramechhap-Kathmandu (if flight will be taken from Ramechhap)
Two Nights Accommodation (twin sharing basis) with breakfast in Kathmandu
One English speaking government registered license holder guide
An assistant guide above 6 pax
One porter each two guests (20kg weight limit) by two person (10kg each trekker) (No porter for solo trekker)
Everest National Park Permits and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Three times meals along the trek
Four times tea/coffee along the trek (in cup size)
Seasonable Fruits will serve with breakfast
Water purification drop (if you required)
Accommodation along the trek (attached rooms-lukla/phakding/namche/khumjung/gokyo)
Welcome/farewell dinner at traditional nepali kitchen with cultural dance program/Yuddha’s place
Wages and foods with accommodation for guide and porter and their insurance etc
All the Taxes for government as per nepali government rules
NTR (Nepal Trekking Rangers) T-shirt
Duffle Bags for trekking (return after trek)
Trekking accomplished certificate
Trekking Route Map
Cost Excludes
International Flight Fares
Meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu
Accommodation above 2 nights
Nepal entry visa fees
Private transportation
Travel Insurance which covers up to 6000m
Helicopter rescue or evacuation with any reason if needed which will cover by your travel insurance
No refunds at all if early return from trekking with any reason
Soft, hard and hot drinks in pot size, mineral water for drink, chocolates bar, desserts, snacks, hot shower, wifi (internet), battery charges and personal expenses etc……
TIPS for guide and porters (crew)
Any services which are not mentioned in the inclusions list
Dates & Prices
Your private Two High Passes Trek via EBC (Chola and Renjo La) begins from and ends in , covering 18 days of adventure.
We organize exclusive trip for two or more, ensuring a personal and flexible experience.
Private Group Deals
1 Person
US$ 2300
2 - 6 Person
US$ 2030
7 - 12 Person
US$ 1980
13 - 30 Person
US$ 1930
Know Before You Go
Challenges of Reaching Both Passes
Locations at High Altitude: Each of those passes is above 5000m (16400ft). Each is significant concerning proper acclimatization to stay ahead of altitude sickness. Slow ascents and resting days for the body to adjust to altitude are most crucial.
Steepness: Both trails going to Chola La and Renjo La are rocky, steep, and treacherous, especially when the weather turns sour (snow and ice or rain).
Stamina: Negotiation of rugged terrain at high altitude while carrying one's equipment demands stamina. Some form of aerobic activity and walking with loads must be done as a regular practice in the lead-up to this trek.
Weather: In the Himalayas, the weather changes with a mind of its own. Thus, you have to be equipped to deal with the biting cold, snow, and whipping wind on top. Warm clothes and gear are a must.
Is this trek for beginners?
The Two High Passes Trek via Everest Base Camp is not an easy trek accessible to a beginner. It is perhaps one of the toughest treks one can come across. It needs a good amount of physical fitness, altitude experience, and above all, mental fortitude because of the difficult terrain and high passes-high altitudes at which the passes are set (Chola La and Renjo La).
The trekking route consists of great ascents and descents, wherein the weather plays havoc in uncertainty, and passing the time above 5000m (16400 feet) where the risk of altitude sickness increases will have trekkers almost at their maximum possible limits. More formally, this trek is more suitable for trekkers having previous hiking or trekking proficiency, especially in high-altitude settings.
For all those beginning with trekking, Nepal has introductory treks such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek that are considerably shorter and nondemanding but give good acclimatizing. However, should a beginner decide to undertake this trek, then adequate training several months ahead of the event should be done, together with preparation for high-altitude acclimatization, and preferably with a trekking guide who is well experienced.
Best Time to Trek
Two High Passes Trek through Everest Base Camp (EBC) is best undertaken during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons, which have the most favorable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures for a safe and pleasant trek.
Spring (March-May)
Trekking in the Everest region is most lively during this season. Fairly moderate temperatures and generally clear skies allow amazing views of the Himalayan peaks. This season's weather has become quite extreme; snowstorm occurrences have minimal chances of happening. Despite its potential for very cold temperatures at high altitudes at night, it is spring, and then comes the blooming of wildflowers, which depicts this part of the world at its best.
Autumn (September-November)
Another trekking season in this part of the world worth mentioning is intrinsically autumn. This refers to situations where conditions remain stable and where, as it turned out, pristine air offered fantastic outlooks of Everest, Lhotse, and all of its other higher peers. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, while nights can take that chilly bite at high altitudes. In superior cases, trekking trails are less busy during fall because most trekkers choose to go during this period, normally for the fantastic conditions and lower chances of rain.
Don't Even Think About Monsoon (June to August)
For this trek, the monsoon(June-August) season should be avoided because of heavy rainfall across this region, making it slippery with several landslide occurrences on their trail. The clouds and fog also tend to drop visibility, and altitude sickness risks rise. Furthermore, a lot of muck may cover many elevations on the trekking trail, making it more difficult to walk.
Winter (December to February)
The winter season is not suitable for the trek because of extreme cold temperatures at high altitudes. The passes become dangerous with snow, and some routes might be obstructed, while the fewer trekkers on the trail do make for possible solitude, unlovely cold, and harsh conditions amenable to a dangerous trek.
Physical Fitness Preparation
This trek is physically challenging, and on this basis focused training should be followed for endurance, strength, and stamina to prepare well for this strenuous activity. Build up that heart as the trek has to walk for long hours strenuously, especially when it comes to high altitudes.
Regular cardiovascular workouts using machines such as running, cycling, or swimming should be practiced as well to build that strong heart. Aim for 45-60 minutes per workout before progressing to a few days per week. Strength training will cover the legs, core, and upper body to assist in climbing steep ascents and carrying your backpack. Spend 2-3 days a week on these exercises: squat, lunge, plank, push-up, etc.
Important too is hill training or stair climbing to practice the elevation gain, so practice walking or running up hills with a loaded pack either way. Carrying a pack will help as it packs long durations that cannot be avoided along an increasing gradient. It is important to have stretching and yoga sessions in your regimen for mobility and recuperation, which are equally important in their failure to become injured. If the trek is to be undertaken at such a height, altitude training should, if possible, help the body acclimatize to the lower oxygen levels available.
Finally, it is indeed necessary to prepare mentally since trekking involves both physical and mental tests. Train hard for those times when you will be challenged at trekking to endure at least some discomfort. Visualization of the outcome will motivate you not to quit. Start training about 8-12 weeks before the trek and gradually increase the distance and difficulty to be in shape for the challenges of the Two High Passes Trek.
Permits and Documents
You might just need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit that allows entry into the Sagarmatha National Park where Mount Everest lies. Foreign nationals should pay the fee which is usually NPR 3,000. You can get this permit from Kathmandu or at the park entrance in Monjo that comes just before Namche Bazaar.
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This card is needed by all trekkers in Nepal and also records the movements of trekkers for safety, regulation, and other officials. It costs around NPR 2,000 for individual trekkers and NPR 1,000 for group trekkers. You can collect your TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: The permit applies specifically to the Khumbu area. Trekking beyond Monjo, high passes will be accessible with this permit. Dig deep into your pocket because it costs you an approximate NPR 2,000. This permit is normally included in trekking packages, but it can also be obtained in Lukla or at the entrance to the region.
Passport: A valid passport (at least 6 months of validity) is required for entry into Nepal and indeed the issuance of the said permits. Keep the original and photocopies of the passport with you for safety, because that will be good.
Travel Insurance: This is usually not a permit but is required by trekkers. The cover should include the possible needs in terms of medical emergencies altitude sickness, and evacuation purposes by helicopter, which is quite the norm for Everest treks.
Normally these permits will be processed beforehand through a trekking agency based in Kathmandu or may be acquired directly from the respective office. Carry these permits as they will be required at several checkposts along the trek, which include Monjo, Namche Bazaar, and within the Everest region.
Accommodation and Food during the Trek
Accommodation
The accommodation can be found for the Two High Passes Trek via the Everest Base Camp (EBC) in tea houses and lodges along the trekking route. These are relatively simple shelters for trekkers. While they are less comfortable than the tea houses lower down in Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche, such as rooms with twin beds, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms, they can be enjoyed.
Additional facilities at such elevations may include hot shower facilities, Wi-Fi, and electricity, although there may sometimes be inconsistencies in connectivity. While at the mid altitudes Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gokyo, the lodgings are more basic with simple room furnishings and few, if any, facilities attached. You may have access to hot shower installations, but these are sometimes in themselves chargeable. At the highest points of the trek, such as Chola La, Renjo La, and Everest Base Camp, accommodation is very basic. Rooms may have only one bed and blanket, a shared bathroom at best, with little heating or insulation. Despite the simplicity, tea houses provide a refuge after long, tiring days of trekking and are well worth their reputation. Sharing a meal in a communal area with others can be one of the few comforts at the end of a long day.
Food
The Two High Passes trek offers sustenance from tea houses and lodges, presenting the trekkers with options for refueling. Down below, various choices of great Nepali, Western, and international foods to satisfy appetite are found: a heavy breakfast of pancakes, eggs, toast, porridge, or muesli to drink along with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Lunch and dinner offer several filling options: dal bhat (a lentil soup served with rice), momo (dumplings), fried rice, noodles, and pizza.
Higher up, food becomes rather scarce, with most provided being simple and energy-giving to help one along those physically demanding days. So the further up you go, the more basic the meals will be, but still quite suitable for giving energy for the walk ahead the next day. Energy bars, chocolates, biscuits, and dried fruits for snacks are easily available around for any quick bites offered to keep you up in between the meals along the trail. Hot drinks, from various teas and coffees to soups, are there waiting for you to warm up your spirit, especially in the chilly altitudes.
Cultural Etiquette
The Two High Passes trek via Everest Base Camp (EBC) offers trekkers a glorious experience through the rich Khumbu region of the Sherpa people. One has to understand and respect local customs and culture to have meaningful and good interactions with people and for a good trekking experience. Here are some top cultural etiquette considerations that can be very useful while trekking:
Respect the Traditions and Customs of the Local People
The Sherpa are identified as a clan that resorts to Buddhism; hence all their practices were somewhat associated with their religion. Walking in a clockwise direction as one moves past sacred places like monasteries and prayer flags is also an important practice. When visiting or entering a religious site, remove your shoes and try to keep silent. Greet locals with a friendly "Namaste" as a sign of respect.
Dress Comfortably
Dressing modestly and practically for the trek is important. All the more so, when entering sacred places, shoulders and knees should be covered. Clothes in that area tend to be a conservative norm, and by that mark itself, people will have undertaken a step towards goodwill.
Respect Local People and Their Space
Do the same for local folks, porters, and yak's residents. As with narrow trails or a busy village, step off to the side and let them pass. Because they're a major part of local life, you should give them space to move freely.
Politeness in Language
A little simple Nepali, such as "Namaste" (hello), "Dhanyabad" (thank you), and "Pheri Bhetaunla" (see you again), shows respect just a little for the culture. English is pretty well-spoken, but you might want to learn a few words of Nepali; the locals will surely appreciate that.
Tipping Etiquette
In Nepal, tipping guides, porters, and tea house staff are generally accepted practices. While it is not mandatory, tipping has come to be seen as a means by which patrons can express their gratitude for the service rendered. In general, tipping occurs after services have been rendered and varies according to the customer's level of satisfaction.
Packing List
Here is a packing list with everything that will be necessary for a Two High Passes Trek via EBC, from the most essential gear to the petty things that will ensure a successful and comfortable trek.
Clothing
Trekking Boots
Gaiters
Socks
Base Layer
Fleece Jacket
Down Jacket
Waterproof Jacket & Pants
Thermal Gloves
Hat
Sun Hat
Scarf or Buff
Trekking Pants
Down or Insulated Jacket
Clothing for Camp
Underwear
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Liner
Pillow Case
Backpacking Gear
Backpack
Waterproof Backpack Cover
Sleeping Pad
Water Bottles
Water Purification Tablets
Hydration Bladder
Health and Hygiene
Personal Medications
First Aid Kit
Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Toilet Paper
Towel
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Nasal Spray
Electronics
Camera
Smartphone
Headlamp
Chargers
Power Bank
Adapter
Food and Snacks
Energy Bars
Nuts and Dried Fruits
Chocolate Bars
Electrolyte Tablets
Instant Soup or Noodles
Essential Documents
Passport
Nepal Visa
Permits (TIMS Card, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit)
Travel Insurance
Photocopies of important documents
Miscellaneous
Trekking Poles
Sunglasses
Personal Locks
Snacks
Notebook
Travel Insurance Details
Cash
Ziplock Bags
Plastic Bags
FAQs For Two High Passes Trek via EBC (Chola and Renjo La)
The camp of Everest is connected to the two passes of Chola and Renjo. The most beautiful trek in the mountains and an adventure you will ever have in the East Everest region.
Nepal Trekking Rangers was phenomenal. Yuddha and his team were communicative, organized, and fairly priced. When our flight to Kathmandu was delayed, Yuddha met us at the airport and ensured we made our connection to Lukla without issue.
On the Three Passes trek, Yuddha was exceptional — attentive, flexible, and fun (he taught us Nepali card games we played nonstop). Thanks to Nepal Trekking Rangers, this truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Trek with Nepal Trekking experts if you are going to Nepal!
I just finished the Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Trekking Rangers and would 100% recommend them to anyone coming to Nepal.
Yuddha, the owner, is a true professional. From the beginning when I contacted him, he was super responsive and able to provide advice on which trek was best. Whenever I had follow-up questions, he would always respond the same day. They also operate with the utmost integrity. Originally, I was meant to trek with them in 2020, but this was cancelled because of Covid. Yuddha reminded me that I had paid the deposit five years ago (which at the time I had told him to hold on to) and took that off the price — I had completely forgotten.
They gave me a warm welcome at the airport as soon as I arrived, and Yuddha met me at my hotel to make sure I had the correct kit, even providing me with things I didn’t have free of charge.
On the trek itself, Yuddha was our guide — so knowledgeable, fun, and spoke great English. Every time I asked him a question about the mountains or region, he had an answer. All the tea houses booked were great and had good food. In the evening, he would play cards with us, and if we ever needed help with anything, he was always on hand.
Words can’t describe the views you see on this trek — we were completely surrounded by the mountains. Yuddha also made sure we went at a sensible pace to avoid any risk of altitude sickness and to ensure we could take it all in.
Overall, it was an experience of a lifetime, and next time I am back in Nepal, I will be trekking with Nepal Trekking Rangers.
Thanks so much, Yuddha!
Perfekter Trek zum Everest Basecamp
We have nothing but positive things to say about our trek with Nepal Trekking Rangers! Our group of three friends was looking for something a little different from the EBC trek and didn’t have time to do the full Three Passes loop. Nepal Trekking Rangers gave us lots of options, and we decided to trek directly to Gokyo Lakes, then over Renjo La and back down to Lukla. It was perfect for us.
Our guide, Yuddha, was super knowledgeable, and the team supporting us was kind and helpful throughout. The communication before and after the trek was excellent, and when we ran into a small snag during our journey, Yuddha handled it smoothly and professionally.
I can’t say enough about how experienced, well-connected, and genuinely kind everyone was. We had an amazing trip, and you’ll be in great hands with Nepal Trekking Rangers.
Great Himalay experience
Hiked the Three Passes trek with Nepal Trekking Rangers and our guide Yuddha. He was a fantastic guide to have on this trek — knowledgeable, professional, and a great match for our group. I’ll be happy to use their services again on our next Himalaya adventure.
Incredible Three Passes Trek Experience!
We had an incredible time on our Three Passes trek (and during our whole visit to Nepal) thanks to Nepal Trekking Rangers! I researched trekking guides thoroughly before we started our trip and probably reached out to 15 of them. I decided Nepal Trekking Rangers was the best in terms of reviews, ease of communication, and price. After the trip was complete, I can confidently say I was right to choose them.
We had a specific itinerary in mind that needed to fit our schedule, and Yuddha was extremely helpful and accommodating. He answered all our questions promptly during planning and provided extra info, tips, and advice that we wouldn’t have known to ask about. When our international flight to Nepal was delayed by 12 hours, he pulled out all the stops to make sure we still made it to Lukla on time — coming to the airport himself with all the gear we rented, helping us repack into their duffel bags, and storing our suitcases at their office. It was incredibly convenient, and we would have been hugely delayed without his extra effort. He even brought Nepalese rupees to exchange from our USD so we wouldn’t waste time at the airport — and at a better rate!
Our guide, Yuddha, was clearly one of the best we saw on the trails. His decades of experience showed. He was kind, attentive, knowledgeable, and a lot of fun. He helped us navigate the chaos of Lukla airport, made sure we got the best possible accommodations within our budget, communicated with tea house staff, showed us local plants, animals, and landmarks, and answered all our “Which mountain is this?” questions with patience and insight. He told us amazing stories, taught us a Nepali card game that became a nightly tradition, and kept us safe and confident through tricky sections like Chukhung Ri, glacier crossings, and the steep descents from the passes.
When we decided mid-trip to skip an acclimatization day in Dingboche, Yuddha quickly rebooked all our accommodations to adjust the schedule. That flexibility allowed us to return to Kathmandu a day early and enjoy more time in the city — a perfect ending to the trek.
Nepal Trekking Rangers clearly employs some of the best in the business, and Yuddha is incredibly skilled and dedicated to making sure guests have an unforgettable experience. After the trek, we visited his office in Kathmandu to share our experience, and he was a warm and gracious host, eager to hear our feedback — which was all glowing.
This was a truly memorable trip, and we’re so glad we chose Nepal Trekking Rangers.