Cholatse

Height: 6,440 m
Duration: 18 days
Country:
Nepal flagNepal

Rising to 6,440 meters in Nepal's Khumbu region, Mount Cholatse is a striking and technically demanding peak that attracts experienced climbers from around the world. Known for its sharp ridges and dramatic ice faces, Cholatse is an iconic objective for those seeking a challenging climb in the shadow of Everest. With fewer crowds than other Himalayan peaks, a Cholatse expedition offers a unique opportunity to test your skills in one of the most stunning alpine environments on Earth.

A climb up Cholatse is characterized by its steep ascents and technical terrain, particularly on the Southwest Ridge, the most commonly attempted route. The climb involves navigating complex glacier systems, exposed ridges, and sections requiring the use of fixed ropes. Climbers need advanced technical skills and experience with high-altitude mountaineering to tackle this peak. Its remote location and rugged beauty make it a rewarding yet formidable challenge for seasoned mountaineers.

For those looking to push their climbing abilities, a Cholatse expedition delivers a perfect blend of technical difficulty and breathtaking scenery. With panoramic views of neighboring Himalayan giants like Ama Dablam and Taboche, the journey to climb Cholatse is as visually inspiring as it is physically demanding. If you're an experienced climber seeking a true test of skill and endurance, Mount Cholatse is a peak that promises an unforgettable adventure.

Prepare for an adventure climbing Cholatse. 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.
GuideInfoCost
Marvel Treksview guides trip webpage from $1,740
Unique Path Trekking & Expeditionview guides trip webpage from $2,043
Nepal Trekking Plannerview guides trip webpage from $2,799
Gokyo Treks & Expeditionview guides trip webpage from $3,598
Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd. logoActual Adventure Pvt. Ltd.view guides trip webpage from $3,800
Skyline Treks and Expeditionview guides trip webpage from $4,990
Sherpa Expedition & Trekkingview guides trip webpage from $6,900
Higher Path Treks & Expeditionsview guides trip webpage from $7,500
Nepal Peak Adventureview guides trip webpage from $7,500
Peak climbing Nepalview guides trip webpage from $7,555
Namas Adventure logoNamas Adventureview guides trip webpage from $7,950
Altitude junkiesview guides trip webpage from $8,500
Nepal Nomad Trekkingview guides trip webpage from $8,500
Peregrine Treks & Toursview guides trip webpage from $9,900
Himalayan explorationview guides trip webpage from $9,999
Everest expertsview guides trip webpage from $11,000
Himalayan Exploration Treks  logoHimalayan Exploration Treks view guides trip webpage from $11,999
Adventure Consultantsview 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
Base Camp

The starting point of the climb, located at an elevation of 5000 meters.
5,000 m

high-camp
Camp 1

The first camp on the route, situated at an elevation of 5650 meters.
5,650 m

high-camp
Camp 2

The second camp, positioned at an elevation of 6020 meters.
6,020 m

summit
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.

  • 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.

  • 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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