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Cholatse
Height: 6,440 m
Duration: 18 days
Country: 
Nepal
NepalEmbarking on the mesmerizing journey of climbing Cholatse is an adventure like no other. This majestic peak, nestled in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, beckons with its awe-inspiring beauty and formidable challenges. Standing tall at an elevation of 6,440 meters (21,132 feet), Cholatse presents a thrilling test of mountaineering skills and endurance. Its dramatic pyramid-like shape, adorned with icy ridges and sheer faces, casts a spellbinding allure. As you ascend its snow-covered slopes and navigate treacherous crevasses, you'll be immersed in a world of rugged serenity and unparalleled grandeur. The unique allure of Cholatse lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the exhilarating sense of achievement that awaits those who conquer its formidable heights. With each step closer to the summit, you'll experience a profound connection with nature, pushing your limits and unlocking your inner strength. The climb to Cholatse promises an unforgettable expedition, where the thrill of conquering a majestic peak merges with the serenity of the mountains, leaving you forever changed and yearning for more.
Table of contents
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on one of the world’s iconic climbs. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful expedition.
Route
- 3,580 m gain over 18 days
- Starting and ending in Lukla
- approach: walk in, fly, drive
Walk in
- +2,540 m over a 65 km approach
- 8 - 10 days in
- 3 - 5 days out
Climb
- +1,040 m over 5 days.
- 2 high camps. Both camps are typically used, with Camp 1 being an acclimatization and rest point and Camp 2 being the launch point for the summit push.
Difficulty
- D: Hard (alpine grade 4)
- TD: Very hard (alpine grade 5)
When to go
- April and May
- September to November
Permits
- 2 permits are needed
- costing around $80 total
These are pictures taken while climbing Cholatse. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Cholatse, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
Guide links
These guides offer organised mountaineering expeditions for Cholatse. From here you can check each guides profile, or browse directly to their website to see the trip. You can separately view the guides directory to browse all guides in one place.
Below is a curated list of independent mountain guides offering expeditions for Cholatse. Each guide provides their own experience, allowing climbers to select the approach that best suits their style, budget, and experience level. You can explore each guide’s dedicated trip page to review what they offer, from logistics and support to pricing details, with no additional influence from us.
| Guide | Info | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Marvel Treks | view guides trip webpage | from $1,740 |
| Unique Path Trekking & Expedition | view guides trip webpage | from $2,043 |
| Nepal Trekking Planner | view guides trip webpage | from $2,799 |
| Gokyo Treks & Expedition | view guides trip webpage | from $3,598 |
| Actual Adventure | view guides trip webpage | from $3,800 |
| Skyline Treks and Expedition | view guides trip webpage | from $4,990 |
| Sherpa Expedition & Trekking | view guides trip webpage | from $6,900 |
| Higher Path Treks & Expeditions | view guides trip webpage | from $7,500 |
| Nepal Peak Adventure | view guides trip webpage | from $7,500 |
| Peak climbing Nepal | view guides trip webpage | from $7,555 |
| Nepal Nomad Trekking | view guides trip webpage | from $8,500 |
| Altitude junkies | view guides trip webpage | from $8,500 |
| Peregrine Treks & Tours | view guides trip webpage | from $9,900 |
| Himalayan exploration | view guides trip webpage | from $9,999 |
| Everest experts | view guides trip webpage | from $11,000 |
| Adventure Consultants | view guides trip webpage | from $17,000 |
The climbing itinerary for Cholatse involves starting from Base Camp at 4900 meters and progressing through Camps 1, and 2, at elevations of 5600, and 6100 meters, respectively. The summit of Cholatse, standing at 6440 meters, is the final objective of the climb.
Base Camp
The starting point of the climb, located at an elevation of 5000 meters.
5,000 m
Camp 1
The first camp on the route, situated at an elevation of 5650 meters.
5,650 m
Camp 2
The second camp, positioned at an elevation of 6020 meters.
6,020 m
Summit
The summit of Cholatse, reaching an elevation of 6440 meters. The ultimate goal of the climb.
6,440 m
Explore the 3D route map for a realistic view of the ascent to Cholatse. This interactive map provides a close-up look at key points like base camp and high-altitude camps along the way. For those planning their own expeditions, it offers a helpful overview of the mountain's terrain and surroundings.
Cholatse weather
How is the weather on Cholatse, and when is the best time to go.
The weather conditions for climbing Cholatse vary throughout the year. The most popular climbing months are generally during the spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) when the weather is relatively stable. During these seasons, climbers can expect milder temperatures and drier conditions. However, it's essential to note that weather conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable, and climbers should be prepared for sudden changes and extreme conditions at higher elevations.
The best time to climb Cholatse is in these months:
- Apr
- May
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
Cholatse Services
Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation
The Cholatse route offers a range of services to support climbers and trekkers throughout their journey. Here is an overview of the services available on the route:
Accommodation
Accommodation options on the Cholatse route typically include teahouses and lodges along the trekking trail, providing basic facilities such as beds and blankets.Food
Food is available on the route, with teahouses and lodges offering a variety of meals, including local and international cuisine. It is advisable to stick to freshly prepared and cooked meals to maintain hygiene and health.Guides
Experienced guides are available for hire on the Cholatse route. The cost of hiring a guide can vary depending on the duration and services provided. Guides can offer valuable expertise, local knowledge, and ensure safety during the climb.Porters
Porters can be hired to assist with carrying heavy equipment and gear during the Cholatse climb. Hiring porters can alleviate the physical burden on climbers, allowing them to focus on the ascent. The cost of hiring porters can depend on the duration and weight of the load.Medical facilities
There are limited medical facilities along the Cholatse route. It is advisable to carry a personal first aid kit and any necessary medications. In case of emergencies, helicopter evacuation services can be arranged if required.Gear rental
Gear rental services are available for certain equipment required for the Cholatse climb, such as crampons, ice axes, and climbing harnesses. However, climbers are recommended to bring their own personal gear, including clothing, boots, and backpacks, to ensure proper fit and comfort.Transport
Transportation options for reaching the starting point of the Cholatse route can include a combination of domestic flights to Lukla or a road journey to Phaplu. Additionally, during the trek, walkers can use local buses or private jeeps for short-distance transfers between different sections of the route.Internet / Phone
Connectivity along the Cholatse route is limited. While some teahouses may offer Wi-Fi services, it is unreliable and can be expensive. Mobile phone coverage can be intermittent, and it is advisable to carry a satellite phone or a local SIM card for emergency communication.ATMs
There are no ATMs on the Cholatse route itself. It is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Kathmandu or other major towns before starting the trek.Shops
Teahouses and lodges along the Cholatse route may have small shops where basic supplies such as snacks, drinks, batteries, and toiletries can be purchased. However, the availability of specific items may vary, and it is advisable to carry essential supplies from the start.Cholatse permits
What permits are needed for climbing Cholatse
Climbing Cholatse in Nepal requires a series of permits to ensure legal and environmentally responsible trekking and mountaineering. These permits are essential for the protection of Nepal's natural and cultural heritage.
1. Cholatse Climbing Permit
- $50 (~5,000 in the local currency)
- Required for climbing Cholatse; the fee varies based on the season.
- Available from the Nepal Mountaineering Association in Kathmandu; it's recommended to get it in advance.
2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- $30 (~3,000 in the local currency)
- Allows entry into Sagarmatha National Park, which covers the Everest region.
- Available at the park entrance or in Kathmandu; can be purchased upon arrival.
Cholatse access - getting there
How to get to Cholatse
Getting to Cholatse
The primary gateway to Cholatse and the Khumbu region is Lukla.
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By Air:
The most common and quickest way to get to Lukla is by taking a flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. This flight is approximately 30 minutes.
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By Foot:
For those seeking a longer trekking experience, it's possible to trek from Jiri to Lukla, which takes about 6-8 days. This route retraces the original route taken by early Everest expeditions.
From Cholatse
Most expeditions return to Lukla after summiting Cholatse, following the same route back.
-
By Air:
Once back in Lukla, climbers typically fly back to Kathmandu from Tenzing-Hillary Airport.
-
By Foot:
For those who trekked in from Jiri, they can choose to trek back the same way, enjoying the landscapes of the lower Khumbu region.
Get inspired by these incredible videos capturing the experience of climbing Cholatse. From route highlights to summitsummit views, these clips showcase the mountain’s beauty and the challenges it presents. Have your own Cholatse video? We'd love for you to share it with the community to inspire future climbers.
What you can see from the summit of Cholatse. Click and pan around the map to explore, and zoom in/out to see the names of neighbouring mountains.
These are variations on the typical route. Which could be added on; either part way along or at the start / end to extend the trek.
Gokyo Lakes
add 2 extra days
Add a side trip to the stunning Gokyo Lakes, the world’s highest freshwater lake system. It's a great opportunity to experience more of the breathtaking Khumbu region and acclimatize further before attempting the summit push. A visit to Gokyo Ri provides panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and, of course, Cholatse itself.
Cho La Pass Crossing
add 1 extra day
Cross the challenging Cho La Pass, one of the three high passes in the Everest region. This side trip can add a thrilling additional mountaineering challenge to your expedition, offering impressive views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It's a challenging trek, so ensure you're properly acclimatized and prepared.
Cholatse questions
What to know about climbing Cholatse
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
Cholatse Links
useful websites, Groups and communities
Groups / links with more info on the Cholatse route.
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