Altitude
8201 m
Co-ordinates
28.0942° N, 86.8106° E
Duration
35 Days
Best Season
Autumn
Activity
8000m Expedition
Trip Grade
Extremely Difficult
Cho Oyu Expedition
Sitting at 8,201 metres, Cho Oyu stands as the massive white dome of the Himalaya’s huge, snow-heavy peak that watches over the old border pass of Nangpa La. People gave it a name that fits its color. In Tibetan, it is Cho Oyu, the “Turquoise Goddess,” because of the blue glow that shines off its icy slopes in the high-altitude light.
The top is not a sharp point but a vast, flat field of snow. From there, you get a clear look at the massive North Face of Everest and the jagged lines of Lhotse nearby. To the north, the dry, brown hills of Tibet roll away forever, creating a view that feels open and endless, unlike the crowded ridges of other mountains.
The journey starts on the old trade routes that have been used for hundreds of years before the real climbing begins on the ice. It is a long, steady pull up the Northwest Ridge, crossing wide snowfields where the wind never stops and the thin air makes every single step a battle of the will.
For those looking to reach their first 8,000-metre summit, Cho Oyu remains in a category of its own.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by our expedition representatives and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to rest after international travel or explore the city at a relaxed pace. In the evening, an informal welcome meeting introduces the expedition overview and key team members.
These days are dedicated to thorough expedition preparation. Activities include detailed equipment inspections, final gear adjustments, safety briefings, and discussions on climbing strategy and logistics. Our experienced guides review acclimatization plans, health protocols, and emergency procedures. This preparation period ensures all participants are fully equipped and mentally prepared before entering the high-altitude environment of Tibet.
Today marks the transition from Nepal to Tibet. After an early departure from Kathmandu, you drive toward the Nepal–Tibet border before continuing into the Kerung Valley. The journey offers stunning views of Himalayan landscapes and deep river gorges. Upon arrival in Kerung, you settle into a comfortable lodge and begin your first stage of natural acclimatization.
The trek begins gradually as you move higher into the Tibetan plateau. The route passes through wide valleys and rolling hills, offering expansive views and a noticeable change in terrain compared to Nepal. The steady ascent supports acclimatization while introducing the vast openness characteristic of Tibet. Overnight in Nyalam.
A vital acclimatization day. Short walks and light activity around Nyalam help the body adapt to increasing altitude. The remainder of the day is spent resting, hydrating, and monitoring physical condition under the guidance of the expedition team, preparing for the higher elevations ahead.
Today’s journey continues across the Tibetan plateau toward Tingri. The landscape becomes increasingly arid and dramatic, with sweeping views of distant Himalayan giants. This gradual ascent further strengthens acclimatization and prepares the team for Base Camp altitude.
You arrive at Cho Oyu Chinese Base Camp, set on the vast plains beneath the north face of the mountain. Surrounded by expansive Himalayan scenery, Base Camp becomes your primary operational center. The camp is established with a focus on comfort, safety, and efficient logistics.
A full day dedicated to rest and organization. Equipment is sorted, climbing loads are prepared, and the route strategy is reviewed. Light acclimatization walks may be undertaken while guides monitor health and readiness. This structured pause supports adaptation before moving higher.
Over these days, you move gradually toward Cho Oyu Base Camp and Advanced Base Camp. The route ascends across glacial terrain and wide snowfields, allowing continued acclimatization while establishing higher camps and logistics. The pace is intentionally steady, maximizing safety and physical adaptation to altitude.
This period is allocated for the full Cho Oyu climbing program. Activities include acclimatization rotations to higher camps, route fixing, load carries, rest days, and continuous weather monitoring. Cho Oyu is considered one of the more accessible 8,000-meter peaks, making it an excellent objective for climbers progressing toward higher Himalayan goals yet it still demands respect, discipline, and experience. The summit push is carefully timed to align with optimal weather and snow conditions.
After completion of the climb, you descend back toward the road-accessible Base Camp area. With altitude decreasing, recovery is noticeable, and the atmosphere becomes more relaxed. The focus remains on safe descent and equipment consolidation.
Today’s drive returns you to the Kerung Valley. The changing landscapes and increasing oxygen levels provide comfort and reflection after the intense high-altitude phase of the expedition.
Crossing back into Nepal, you drive to Kathmandu, completing the overland journey. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your hotel, where modern comforts await.
A well-deserved rest day in Kathmandu. Time is available for sightseeing, shopping, spa treatments, or a celebratory dinner with the expedition team. This day also serves as a contingency buffer if required.
Your expedition concludes today with a scheduled transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. You leave Nepal carrying the achievement of summiting or attempting one of the world’s great Himalayan peaks, along with memories and experiences that last a lifetime.
Package details
What's Included
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
- 4 nights deluxe hotel in Kathmandu (BB basis).
- Welcome & farewell dinners.
- Kathmandu–Lukla round-trip flights (incl. taxes).
- All ground transportation.
- Everest permits (Climbing, Icefall, National Park, TIMS).
- Full board meals during trek & Base Camp.
- Porters & full staff support (wages, gear, insurance).
- Medical & emergency insurance for staff.
- Supplemental oxygen (5–7 bottles per climber).
- Oxygen mask & regulator.
- Dedicated high-altitude Sherpa support.
What's not Included
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu.
- Nepal visa fees.
- Extra hotel nights beyond itinerary.
- Personal travel & medical insurance (incl. evacuation).
- Tips & summit bonuses for expedition staff.
- Personal climbing gear & equipment.
- Emergency evacuation & personal expenses.
- Drinks, laundry, internet & personal spending.
- Personal medications & medical supplies.
- Excess baggage & non-itinerary helicopter flights.
- Any services not mentioned in “Price Includes.”
Book Now
Our experienced guides and expedition team are ready to plan your Cho Oyu adventure. Fill out the form and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours with a tailored proposal.