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Breathtaking views from the summit of Cholo, Khumbu region, Nepal - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Breathtaking views from the summit of Cholo, Khumbu region, Nepal  | Soren Kruse Ledet
A climber ascends Cholo - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
A climber ascends Cholo  | Warren Townsden
The final push to the summit - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
The final push to the summit  | Warren Townsden
Spectacular views as a climber approaches the high campsite on Cholo, Khumbu region, Nepal - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Spectacular views as a climber approaches the high campsite on Cholo, Khumbu region, Nepal  | Soren Kruse Ledet
Cholo Icefall, Khumbu region, Nepal - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Cholo Icefall, Khumbu region, Nepal  | Soren Kruse Ledet
Cholo Base camp, Khumbu region, Nepal - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Cholo Base camp, Khumbu region, Nepal  | Soren Kruse Ledet
Approaching the summit of Cholo in perfect conditions, Khumbu region, Nepal - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Approaching the summit of Cholo in perfect conditions, Khumbu region, Nepal  | Soren Kruse Ledet
The high camp on Cholo - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
The high camp on Cholo  | Warren Townsden
One of our strong climbing sherpas, Lhakpa Tamang - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
One of our strong climbing sherpas, Lhakpa Tamang  | Warren Townsden
Heading to Camp 1 on Cholo - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Heading to Camp 1 on Cholo  | Warren Townsden
Views from the base camp on Cholo - Cholo Expedition (6097m), Nepal
Views from the base camp on Cholo  | Warren Townsden

Cholo Expedition (6097m)

A unique climb for the best views across the Everest region

Nepal

 5 reviews

21 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: ABI
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 21 Days
Activities
  • 17 day mountaineering expedition
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 13 nights camping
  • 3 nights hotel
  • 4 nights lodge
Meals

Valued at 800

  • 17 Dinners
  • 17 Lunches
  • 20 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
9 / 10

Intermediate Mountaineering Expedition

Technical Grading  

Intermediate

Carbon Footprint  

51kg of CO2-e PP per day

Trip highlights

  • A rare opportunity to climb Cholo (6097m)
  • Hike up the Thame valley and cross the Renjo La (5340m)
  • Spectacular mountain views deep in the Everest region
  • Climb with a highly experienced team and capture the spirit of adventure, with indelible memories forged among the highest mountains on earth
  • Immerse yourself in Kathmandu

Overview

In a spectacular corner of the Everest region lies Cholo (6097m/20,003ft), one of the twin peaks of Abi Himal. A mecca for mountaineers, this is a dramatic region where several of the world's highest mountains, including Everest and Cho Oyu, dominate the skyline. Building on our previous summit successes on this peak, World Expeditions continue to offer an exciting itinerary to climb Cholo, a rarely climbed peak due to its hidden but highly dramatic location just south of the giant south face of Cho Oyu, at the very northern end of the Gokyo valley. We will access the peak over the dramatically situated Renjo La, with the Gokyo valley stretching out before us and views into Tibet, to the wild upper Bhote Kosi. Cholo sees very few expeditions and it is incredibly unique to have such an off the beaten path experience close to some of the main trekking routes in the Khumbu region. For an experienced and motivated mountaineer, this expedition will push you to new heights in one of the world's premier climbing destinations. This mountain offers the total package in terms of mountaineering in the Nepal Himalaya, with at times technical climbing justly rewarded. The view from the summit is hands down the best mountain view in the Himalaya, with breathtaking vistas spanning 360 degrees to across the whole region. You can gaze upon both the North and South Col of Everest which is very rare, along with Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. The secret is out and Cholo is set to become one of the most sought after objectives for mountaineers looking to go to the next level. This is a trip which truly captures the spirit of adventure and will leave you with indelible memories of adventure among the highest mountains on earth.

Itinerary

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You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel

Meals: Nil

Depending on the season, you will either have a free day to explore Kathmandu's bustling streets and significant landmarks or embark on a bus ride to Ramechap, a small town that operates flights to Lukla, the gate way trekking in the Everest region. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or Private eco-camp *NB: Domestic flights to/from Lukla during Spring and Autumn trekking seasons (March-May and October-December) may operate from Manthali Airport, Ramechap. This is determined by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and dates are subject to change. Your leader will brief you on flight arrangements locally.

Meals: B

We transfer to the airport for the 45 minute flight to the STOL airstrip at Lukla. This was the airstrip built by Sir Edmund Hillary and his friends to service the Everest Region when he began his work of building schools and hospitals for the Sherpa people. It is a memorable flight, with marvellous views of the Eastern Himalaya. At Lukla we are immediately impressed by the scale of the huge peaks that surround the village but this is only a foretaste of what is to come. Our crew assemble and we head downhill towards the Dudh Kosi, a raging river that flows from the highest peaks. Today we cross and re-cross the thundering glacial river. The broad and well-marked trail meanders around fields of potatoes and buck-wheat and passes through small villages, as we pass rows of tree dahlia to make our way to our first overnight stop at our private eco campsite at Monjo.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we pass through the gates of the Sagamartha National Park. The establishment of this national park is a significant attempt to stem the use of fire-wood in the area and the few local people who have a permit to cut wood must gain approval from the authorities on the basis of it being primarily for their personal use. We follow the river course to the confluence of the Dudh Kosi and the Bhote Kosi, and cross a spectacular high bridge before commencing our ascent to the village of Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa 'capital' of Nepal. It is a tough climb as the trail passes through forest of pine to a vantage point that provides our first view of Mt Everest. The trail continues to climb and meander to Namche, and the sight of this prosperous village spread within a horse-shoe shaped valley opposite the beautiful peak of Kongde Ri is worth every step. After lunch you may wish to peruse the Tibetan trader's stalls or the Sherpa shops in search of a bargain. Overnight: eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Sagarmartha National Park Headquarters just above our private eco campsite offers a very interesting display of photographs, memorabilia and information on the park, and the hill above is a wonderful vantage point for the spectacular view up the Imja Khola Valley towards Everest. The change from the narrow lowland valleys to the broad glacial ones is immediately obvious. The steep-sided glacial valley before us gradually winds towards the base of Everest, broken only by the moraines left by retreating glaciers. Its more gradual rate of climb is a blessing for those trekking higher. Towering to over 4000 metres above the valley floor, spectacular peaks seem to engulf us. Around us are Taweche (6542 m), Thamserku (6808 m), Kantega (6685 m), Ama Dablam (6856 m), Nuptse (7896 m) and Lhotse (8511 m). The greatest of all, Mt Everest (8848 m), rises at the head of the valley. The Sherpa Cultural Centre has an interesting collection of mountaineering items and photographs. Those who are fit and acclimatising well may wish to take the optional walk to the Everest View Hotel (4-5hrs) where spectacular views of Everest and Ama Dablam may be seen. For those feeling well acclimatised there is also the option of a day walk to the pretty village of Khumjung. Khumjung is where Sir Edmund Hillary built his “Schoolhouse In the Clouds” and the famed Khunde hospital is close by. World Expeditions supports both of these famous community facilities, as well as the many other projects operated by the Himalayan Trust. There will generally be the opportunity for you to visit the hospital and school. We will also be able to visit the monastery at Khumjung where we may have the opportunity to see the “scalp of a yeti”. Overnight: eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

We head west along the valley of the Bhote Kosi to the remote valley of Thame. The route is situated at an important junction along the old primary trade route to and from Tibet via the Nangpa La (Pass). We cross Phurte and Thamo villages. We descend down to the river and cross a bridge before making a final steep climb to Thame. There is a spectacular monastery on the way. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

We ascend further up the valley towards the Renjo La. It is an isolated valley, and as we head further north the bustle of Namche feels far away. There is a chance we will meet Tibetan traders descending from the Nangpa La pass. This is an ancient trading route that leads through the Himalayas from Tibet. Traders still use this route today with their caravans of woolly yaks laden with goods. We can explore the Sherpa villages of Yellajung and Taranga before arriving at our wilderness campsite at Marlung.

Meals: B,L,D

A day to rest and acclimatise as we build strength and energy for the weeks ahead. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

A slow and steady climb today as we cross deserted yak pastures and climb high into the mountains. Keep an eye open for Himalayan Thar on the rocky slopes, which are often spotted in this region. There are great views today of Cho Oyu and Machhermo Peak. Our wilderness campsite is at the base of the pass, our goal for tomorrow.

Meals: B,L,D

Crossing the Renjo La Pass will be exciting and challenging. From Yak Kharka we have a 3 hour ascent through boulders and a zig zagging incline to the top of the high pass at approximately 5340m. From atop the pass the views are truly spectacular, with panoramic views of giant Himalayan mountains in every direction. Overnight eco-lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

Today will be spent in picture perfect Gokyo, an excellent location for a rest and acclimatisation day. Overnight eco-lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

There are great views today of Cho Oyu and Cholatse. A slow climb after lunch as we cross deserted yak pastures and climb high into the mountains. This is spectacular high alpine terrain and Base Camp will be in a secluded spot near a small lake at the base of the Abi Himal icefall. We follow the normal path to the Cho La, but turn north shortly before the base of the pass and follow a broad and easy angled ridge for a few hours to base camp. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

A day set aside to rest and for preparations at base camp. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

High Camp will be established on the saddle between the two peaks of Abi Himal, Cholo and Kangchung at an altitude of about 5500m. The exact location of high camp will be dependent upon the condition of the icefall. We will launch our climb of Cholo from this high camp, which is situated in a truly spectacular alpine environment. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

We have two full days set aside for climbing this magnificent peak that is hidden deep in the Everest region, in the shadow of Cho Oyu, just south of the Tibetan border. An alpine start will be required and the climbing is moderately angled with a few prolonged steeper sections, with some mixed ice and rock pitches. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Contingency Day set aside for weather. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving the high mountains after three weeks of climbing and crossing high passes, we walk down the Gokyo valley on the high eastern trail. The climate will be appreciably warmer here after almost three weeks above 4500m. We will enjoy a good nights rest, plenty to eat and drink and time to reflect on our recent achievements in the mountains. Overnight: private eco-campsite or eco-lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

If the weather is clear, the mountain views from Thyangboche monastery as we pass through are outstanding - Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse are at the head of the valley, their line of sight flanked by Taweche on one side and Ama Dablam on the other. Almost directly above us are Kantega and Thamserku. Completing a 360 degree panorama of mountains are Khumblia and Kongde Ri which encircle us from across the valley. It's a pleasant walk down to Namche and as we near the village we pass through terraced fields that are home to a brightly colored pheasant, the Danphe Pheasant, the national bird of Nepal. We will continue down the valley to our campsite at Monjo and enjoy a last evening with the entire team, celebrating the adventure we have shared. Overnight in private eco campsite.

Meals: B,L,D

Retracing our steps along the valley, we pass through a variety of settlements and forests before a gentle climb to Lukla. We savour our final mountain sunsets of the trek as we complete this exhilarating journey. Our last evening of the trek is a perfect time to celebrate a successful journey and say thanks to the team, especially the porters who will return to their villages from here. Overnight eco lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

We start the day with a stunning morning flight over forests and villages to Kathmandu directly or to return via Ramechap. Upon arrival, you be will be transferred back to the Radisson Hotel and have the remainder of the afternoon free. There will be plenty of time to relax or do some last minute shopping/sightseeing. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: B

Following a final breakfast together, the trip will conclude with a departure transfer to the airport for onward flights.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 26 Sep 2027 and 26 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 26 Sep 2027 – ends 16 Oct 2027 (21 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Return flights to and from Lukla (valued at US$490)
  • All meals during the trek and climb: 20 breakfasts, 18 lunches and 18 dinners (valued at US$720)
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • Climbing pack including ice axe, crampons and harness
  • All park entrance fees, trekking and climbing permits
  • Good quality hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation in fully serviced wilderness campsites during the expedition
  • Private transportation
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 21, or with pre/post-tour accommodation booked through World Expeditions
  • Extra baggage allowance on Lukla flights (total 20kg)
  • World Expeditions mountaineering leader
  • Fully supported expedition with climbing Sherpa support at a 1:3 climber ratio
  • Safety equipment including portable Altitude Chamber, group medical kit and satellite phone
  • Daily supply of safe treated drinking water to reduce single-use plastic waste
  • Ethical porter and climbing Sherpa support including fair wages, insurance, protective clothing, food, shelter and responsible load limits
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls and laundry
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Any items not listed as included

Reviews (5)

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Great trip. Very well run with great people.

Edward Iglesias|Wollongong, NSW
1 Nov 2022
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Even though I did not summit, the trek to Mt. Cholo was incredible. The logistics was great as were the porters, climbing sherpas and our leader, and well done to The "Snow Ponies".

I. Lord|Adelaide, South Australia
7 Nov 2019
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The trip really captured the spirit of adventure & provided an excellent opportunity to climb significant Himalayan peaks that people really visit. Moreover the staff had excellent skills & knowledge making the trip fun & exciting as well as memorable.

W. Townsden|Coogee, NSW
15 Nov 2016
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Michael Rauch|Belvedere Tiburon, CA
2 Nov 2022
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Lindsay Wootten|Ewingdale, NSW, Australia
22 Nov 2016

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel ProjectsPorter Welfare10 Pieces Initiative
Breathtaking views as we trek down towards Thame | Monika Molenda
Restoring Learning in Thame Project
 
Restoring access to digital education through the installation of a computer lab and smart classroom technology, helping rebuild learning opportunities for students affected by climate-related disasters.
 
In Nepal's Solukhumbu region, the remote mountain village of Thame is recovering from a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and critical community services — including the local school and its computer lab. With students displaced and relocated to temporary learning facilities, access to quality education has been severely disrupted, particularly in digital learning.
 
The Rebuilding Digital Education in Thame project aims to address this gap by equipping the newly relocated Thame Basic School with a computer lab, smart boards, and essential digital infrastructure. This will enable students and teachers to access modern, technology-enabled education in one of the most remote regions in the world.
 
With support from the World Expeditions Foundation, this project will fund the installation of computers, smart boards, printers, and classroom infrastructure to support both students and teachers. The outcome? Improved digital literacy, more engaging and interactive teaching, and equitable access to education for a community rebuilding after disaster.
 
The project is led by Himalayan Trust Nepal, a long-standing organisation working closely with local communities, schools, and government partners to deliver sustainable education and development outcomes across the Khumbu region.
 
Support our work
Our Commitment to Porters in Nepal
 
Porters are central to every trek we run in Nepal, and we are committed to their safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment.
 
We ensure fair pay, enforce strict load limits (max 30kg), and provide proper clothing, equipment, meals, and safe accommodation.
 
Porters have equal access to medical care, insurance, and emergency support as our travellers.
 
You can trek knowing your journey supports responsible and ethical practices.
Help us keep the places that inspire us clean by taking part in our 10 Pieces litter initiative | Lachlan Gardiner
Cleaning Up Wilderness Trails
 
Our 10 Pieces initiative is a simple, voluntary way to give back while you trek.
 
Travellers are encouraged to collect 10 pieces of litter each day along the trail, helping protect these fragile environments.
 
You'll find more details in your client portal once you book, and your tour leader will introduce the initiative at your first group meeting in Kathmandu.

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?Why Book With Us

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

  • Fully supported expedition with expert climbing guides and a 1:3 climbing sherpa to climber ratio
  • Proven itinerary with ample acclimatisation and contingency days to maximise summit success
  • Free use of trek pack (quality sleeping bag, down jacket and insulated mat) and Climbing pack (ice, crampons, harness and helmet)
  • Extra luggage allowance (25kg total) on internal domestic flight to Lukla
  • Stay energised with 3 hearty meals freshly prepared by our team of dedicated cooks. All drinking water included
  • Experience and wilderness first aid trained guides equipped with portable altitude chamber, group medical kit and emergency satellite phone

Guaranteeing A Great Nepal Trip

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