+977 9849800709 Direct call or WhatsApp 24/7

Mt. Cho-Oyu Expedition 8188M

  • Duration 43
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Challenging
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Kathmandu
  • Meals Full Board
  • Accommodation Hotels & Camping
  • Max. Altitude 8188
  • Activity Trekking & Mountaineering
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 4+
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Scenic Drive to Tibet: Start your adventure with a beautiful drive through Nepal to the Tibet border. Along the way, enjoy views of green valleys, rolling hills, and old monasteries on the Tibetan Plateau.
  • Permits and Logistics: Everest Adventures Nepal takes care of all the paperwork, including permits and visas, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Everything is well-organized for a smooth start to your expedition.
  • Base Camp Setup: The Cho Oyu Base Camp is at 5,600 meters, with amazing views of the mountain. Located in a peaceful spot on the Tibetan side, the camp prepares climbers for the challenges ahead.
  • Climbing Cho Oyu (8,188m): Cho Oyu is the 6th highest mountain in the world. It’s a bit easier to climb compared to other tall mountains, so it’s a great choice for climbers aiming to reach 8,000 meters. The climb follows a route called the North East Ridge, which is not too technical but still challenging, especially with ice slopes, crevasses, and the “Death Zone” above 8,000 meters.
  • Acclimatization: The climb includes time to adjust to the high altitude. You’ll climb to higher camps and return to Base Camp several times to help your body get used to the thin air, increasing your chances of reaching the top.
  • Camps on the Mountain: As you climb, there are advanced camps at higher altitudes with stunning views of the Himalayas. These camps provide the supplies needed for a safer and more comfortable ascent.
  • Mesmerizing Views of Everest: Throughout the journey, you’ll see breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, making the climb even more amazing.
  • Cultural Experience: The trip offers a chance to explore Tibetan culture, including visiting monasteries, seeing prayer flags, and admiring traditional Tibetan buildings. You’ll also meet local Tibetan people, which adds a deeper meaning to the journey.
  • Expert Guidance & Support: The Everest Adventures Nepal team, including Sherpas, guides, and mountaineering experts, are there to support you every step of the way. They ensure safety and professionalism, offering guidance and motivation throughout the climb.
  • Summit Success & Celebrations: Reaching the top of Cho Oyu is a huge achievement. Standing at 8,188 meters and taking in the view of surrounding peaks, including Everest, is a moment you’ll never forget. It’s the perfect time to celebrate and reflect on your accomplishment.

 

Mt. Cho-Oyu Expedition 8188M Overview

The Cho Oyu Expedition is a thrilling journey to the sixth-highest peak in the world, towering at 8,188 meters (26,864 feet). Located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, Cho Oyu offers a challenging yet accessible experience for climbers who are ready to take on one of the most stunning peaks in the Himalayas. Known as the “Goddess of Turquoise,” Cho Oyu is renowned for its beauty and relatively moderate difficulty compared to other 8,000-meter peaks, making it a popular choice for climbers aiming for their first 8,000-meter summit.

Organized by Everest Adventures Nepal, the Cho Oyu Expedition offers a meticulously planned and supported ascent, ensuring climbers are prepared both mentally and physically. The journey begins with a trek through the lush valleys and Sherpa villages of the Khumbu region, with awe-inspiring views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu along the way. Once at the base camp, climbers undergo an acclimatization process to adjust to the high-altitude environment. The expedition route is considered less technical than other major Himalayan climbs, but it still demands significant mountaineering experience, especially at higher altitudes where the weather and conditions can be unpredictable.

The summit push is a test of endurance, strength, and determination. Climbers ascend through multiple camps, with each stage offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Cho Oyu’s north-western ridge is the typical route taken, offering technical sections interspersed with sections of steep snow and ice. Climbers are accompanied by highly experienced Sherpas, who provide expert guidance and support to ensure a safe and successful summit attempt.

This expedition is not just a climb; it’s a complete Himalayan adventure. Along the way, climbers experience the rich culture of the Sherpa people, with their warm hospitality and deep-rooted traditions. The Cho Oyu Expedition is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the grandeur of the Himalayas while pushing personal limits and achieving the extraordinary feat of summiting one of the world’s tallest mountains.

The Everest Adventures Nepal team is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching expedition experience, ensuring every climber is equipped with the right gear, knowledge, and support to succeed. This expedition offers an unmatched opportunity for mountaineers seeking to conquer an iconic Himalayan giant.

Day to Day Itinerary
Expand all

Upon arrival Kathmandu Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and a briefing about the expedition.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • Welcome Dinner

Today is crucial for finalizing all expedition details. You will meet your expedition team, review your climbing gear, and ensure all necessary equipment is in place. A safety briefing covers essential high-altitude climbing techniques, emergency protocols, and oxygen usage. The day also includes finalizing permits and logistical arrangements. Afterward, you can explore Kathmandu’s markets for last-minute purchases. Rest well, as the adventure begins tomorrow with the drive toward the Nepal-Tibet border.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • Breakfast

We embark on a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Timure, a small town near the Nepal-Tibet border. The journey takes approximately 7–8 hours, passing through lush green hills, winding mountain roads, and picturesque villages. Along the way, we witness beautiful rivers and traditional rural life. Upon arrival in Timure, we settle into our accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening, preparing for the next day’s border crossing into Tibet.

  • Lodge
  • All Inclusive
  • 2-3 hours
  • 40-50 km

After completing immigration procedures at the Nepal-Tibet border, we drive into Tibet, reaching Kerung, a small town surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. The drive is relatively short, allowing us time to rest and start acclimatizing to the higher altitude. In the afternoon, we take a short walk around Kerung to gently adjust to the new environment. Hydration and light activities help with the acclimatization process before we settle in for the night.

  • Lodge
  • All Inclusive
  • 5-6 hrs
  • 150 km

We continue our journey deeper into Tibet with a drive to Tingri, a remote Tibetan town offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The elevation gain is significant, so we take an extra day for acclimatization. We explore the surrounding areas with short hikes to help our bodies adjust to the thin air. This period is crucial to reduce the risk of altitude sickness and prepare for higher climbs in the coming days.

  • Lodge
  • All Inclusive
  • 2 Days
  • 200-350 km

A rough but scenic drive takes us from Tingri to the Chinese Base Camp, where we set up our initial camp. The high-altitude environment requires gradual adaptation, so we spend the next couple of days here, resting and taking short hikes. These acclimatization hikes are essential for our bodies to adapt before moving higher. We also use this time to organize equipment, check gear, and mentally prepare for the challenging ascent ahead.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 3 Days

Leaving Chinese Base Camp, we begin our trek toward the Intermediate Camp. The journey is relatively short but challenging due to the increasing altitude. We walk through rocky terrain and glacial moraine, taking a slow and steady pace to conserve energy. Upon arrival, we set up camp and rest, allowing our bodies to adjust further. The night at Intermediate Camp is our first experience sleeping at such a high elevation.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 3-4 hours
  • 4-5 km

Today’s trek is steeper and more demanding, as we ascend toward the Advanced Base Camp. The route consists of rocky paths and icy trails, requiring careful footing. Upon reaching Advanced Base Camp, we establish our main base for the climb. This will be our home for the upcoming weeks as we prepare for higher altitude rotations and the final summit push. We rest, rehydrate, and adjust to the extreme conditions.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 4-5 km
  • 4-5 km

Climbing Period of Cho Oyu (8,188m)
This is the core phase of the Cho Oyu expedition, where climbers focus on acclimatizing and preparing for the summit. The process involves multiple rotations between the base camp and higher camps to gradually adjust to the increasing altitude and prepare for the final summit push.

Day 12-13: Moving to Camp 1 (6,400m)
Climbers depart from Advanced Base Camp (ABC) and ascend to Camp 1, typically set at around 6,400 meters. The journey is a test of stamina, and climbers spend a night here to adjust to the altitude.

Day 14-16: Camp 1 to Camp 2 (7,000m)
From Camp 1, climbers move up to Camp 2, positioned at 7,000 meters. This section often involves steep and technical climbing. Upon arrival, climbers spend a few days resting and acclimatizing to prepare for the next phase.

Day 17-20: Camp 2 to Camp 3 (7,500m)
The ascent continues to Camp 3, situated at 7,500 meters. This is a high-altitude camp requiring careful planning and pacing due to the thin air. Climbers may spend several days at Camp 3 to ensure they have the strength for a summit attempt.

Day 21-37: Rest, Acclimatization, and Final Summit Push
The final phase of this period involves resting at higher camps and making any necessary adjustments. Climbers may take multiple rest days, depending on weather conditions and team readiness. Weather is a critical factor, and the summit push will begin when conditions are favorable. If weather permits, the summit attempt is made, pushing climbers to the top of Cho Oyu. If the summit is not achievable, rotations continue, and climbers wait for the right window. This is a demanding period, requiring patience, resilience, and teamwork.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 26 Days

After a successful summit push, we begin our careful descent from Advanced Base Camp to Intermediate Camp. The trek down is much easier but still requires caution as we navigate through rugged glacial terrain. As we lose altitude, breathing becomes easier, and we feel the exhaustion from our climb fade slightly. At Intermediate Camp, we take a well-deserved rest, rehydrate, and replenish our energy while reflecting on the incredible journey to the top of the sixth-highest mountain in the world.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 6-7 hours
  • 8-10 km

After reaching the summit of Cho Oyu, the return journey begins. The first day involves descending from the summit to the high camp, passing through the challenging terrain with careful navigation. The second day continues the descent to the intermediate camp, ensuring proper rest and acclimatization. On day 41, the trek proceeds further down, with the team heading towards Base Camp, where they will pack up and prepare for the return journey to Kathmandu. The return trip is gradual and careful, allowing for acclimatization and ensuring the team’s safety. Arrival in Kathmandu marks the conclusion of the expedition.

  • Lodge & 3 Star Hotel
  • All inclusive
  • 3-4 Days

Enjoy a day of relaxation or embark on a heritage tour. If you choose leisure time, you can explore the local surroundings at your own pace, unwind, or engage in personal activities. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the cultural history of the area with a heritage tour, visiting local landmarks, historical sites, and learning about the region’s rich cultural heritage. This day provides a balance between rest and cultural exploration.

  • Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

The expedition officially concludes as we transfer to the airport for our flight home. With a heart full of memories and a sense of accomplishment, we bid farewell to Nepal, carrying the experiences of our Cho Oyu climb with us forever. Whether heading back to work or planning the next big adventure, the lessons learned and friendships made during this journey will remain with us for a lifetime.

  • Breakfast
Altitude Chart

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Customize Trip
Cost Includes
  • Hotel Accommodation: All accommodation in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast.
  • Welcome and Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant.
  • Land Transport and Cargo: Transport from Kathmandu to Chinese Camp and back.
  • Visa and Permits: Tibet entry visa and Mount Cho Oyu climbing permit.
  • Highway and Conservation Fees: Charges for using highways and conservation areas.
  • Cargo for Members and Staff: Transportation of all necessary cargo.
  • Yak Transportation: Yaks will carry equipment from Base Camp to Advance Base Camp and back.
  • Meals: 3 full meals a day with hot soups and drinks.
  • High-Quality Food: Special meals during trekking and the expedition.
  • Climbing Sherpa Guide: An experienced guide to help you with the climb.
  • Cook and Helpers: Professional cook and helpers to manage the kitchen.
  • Staff Wages and Logistics: Daily wages, equipment, allowances, and logistics for all staff members, including Sherpa guides, cooks, and porters.
  • Medical Insurance: Insurance for the Nepali staff during the expedition.
  • Personal Tent: A high-quality tent for each expedition member.
  • Camp Facilities: Comfortable dining, kitchen, toilet, hot shower, and communication rooms at Base Camp and upper camps, with necessary logistics like mattresses and pillows.
  • Power Supply: Generators or solar panels to charge electronic devices.
  • Oxygen: 3 oxygen bottles (4 liters each) for climbers, and 2 bottles for the climbing Sherpa. Extra bottles available at $550 each.
  • Summit Mask and Regulator: Branded mask and regulator for each climber and Sherpa.
  • Climbing Gear: EPI gas, climbing ropes, ice screws, snow shovels, carabiners, and other essential climbing equipment.
  • Communication: Walkie-talkies for each member and Sherpa.
  • Satellite Phone: Available for emergencies (extra cost).
  • Weather Forecast: Daily weather updates during the expedition.
  • Garbage Disposal: Fees for responsible waste disposal.
  • Government Taxes and Service Charges: All necessary taxes and company charges included.
Cost Excludes
  • International flight tickets.
  • Nepal visa fees for entry and re-entry.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Personal, medical, and travel insurance during the expedition.
  • Customs and import duties for expedition equipment in Nepal (by air or road).
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls, internet, battery charging, bottled water, hot showers, laundry, and alcoholic drinks.
  • Personal trekking and climbing gear.
  • Drone and special filming permits.
  • Internet and data services during the trek and expedition.
  • Permit for a satellite phone, if required ($500 per set).
  • Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa (mandatory).
  • Tips and gratuities for general staff (mandatory).
  • Any services not listed in the cost inclusions.
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Price from:$35000P/P
Write a Review
Everest Nepal Have Questions?
Talk to Expert

Dilip Singh Rai

WhatsApp/Viber +977 9849800709
FAQs
Expand all

  • Yes, a tourist visa is required to visit Nepal for a Cho Oyu expedition. A standard tourist visa can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through a Nepali embassy abroad. The visa typically lasts for 15, 30, or 90 days. For the Cho Oyu climb, climbers also need to obtain a trekking permit for the region, typically a Sagarmatha National Park permit and a Special Trekking Permit for the Everest region, which covers access to higher altitudes. Additionally, a mountaineering permit for Cho Oyu, issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Tourism, is required for the ascent. This permit is often arranged through a registered trekking agency, which also handles necessary documentation and fees.

  • The cost of a Cho Oyu expedition typically ranges between $20,000 to $45,000, depending on various factors. Key cost components include the mountaineering permit, which costs around $1,500 per person, and additional fees for access to restricted areas like Tibet. Guides, Sherpas, and porters are essential for the climb and can significantly influence the price, with expert guides costing around $6,000-$10,000. Equipment costs can also add up, especially if climbers are renting high-altitude gear such as oxygen tanks, specialized clothing, and mountaineering boots. Additionally, transportation (flights to Kathmandu, helicopter rides, etc.), food, and accommodation in base camps and along the route are added costs. Custom services like private expeditions or luxury accommodations can raise the price.

  • The best time to attempt the summit of Cho Oyu is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season, from late April to early June, and the post-monsoon (autumn) season, from late September to early November. During these times, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and lower chances of heavy snowfall. In spring, climbers can expect warmer conditions compared to autumn, though temperatures still drop dramatically as altitude increases. Weather at high altitudes, however, can be highly unpredictable, with sudden snowstorms, temperature drops, and high winds, making acclimatization critical. It is important to monitor weather forecasts closely and be prepared for challenging conditions, especially on the summit push, where extreme cold and wind can pose serious risks.

  • Climbing Cho Oyu requires excellent physical fitness, especially endurance and strength, to handle the demanding ascent. Climbers should be able to hike long distances with heavy loads over rugged terrain, have strong cardiovascular fitness, and build endurance for extended periods at high altitudes. A solid foundation of trekking experience in challenging conditions, including previous high-altitude climbs (6,000 meters or higher), is essential. This experience helps climbers understand their body’s response to altitude and improves their decision-making in difficult situations. A climber should be able to manage basic technical climbing skills, such as using ice axes, crampons, and ropes. Overall fitness and prior experience help mitigate risks associated with altitude sickness, fatigue, and other challenges during the climb.

  • Lhotse Base Camp is located at an elevation of approximately 5,300 meters (17,388 feet) above sea level. From Kerung, Tibet, it takes about 5-7 days of trekking to reach Base Camp, depending on the acclimatization schedule and pace. The trek typically passes through the Tibetan Plateau, with stops at various monasteries and villages, before reaching Lhotse Base Camp. After reaching Base Camp, climbers progressively move to higher camps to acclimatize to the altitude. Camp 1 is located at around 6,400 meters (21,000 feet), Camp 2 at 7,200 meters (23,622 feet), and Camp 3 at approximately 7,500 meters (24,600 feet), where the summit attempt begins.

  • Acclimatization is critical for climbing Cho Oyu because the body needs time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness, which can be fatal. Acclimatization is achieved through a gradual ascent, with climbers spending several days at intermediate altitudes to allow the body to adapt to thinner air. Climbers often use the “climb high, sleep low” technique, where they ascend to higher altitudes during the day and return to a lower camp to sleep. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, and fatigue. If not treated promptly, altitude sickness can progress to more severe forms, including pulmonary or cerebral edema, which may require immediate descent.

  • Sherpas are an essential part of any Cho Oyu expedition, providing critical support in guiding, carrying supplies, setting up camps, and ensuring the safety of climbers. Sherpas, who are native to high-altitude regions, possess expert knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and climbing techniques. They also have a genetic adaptation to high altitudes, making them invaluable for their ability to withstand the challenges of extreme elevation. While it is theoretically possible to climb Cho Oyu without a guide, it is highly discouraged due to the technical nature of the climb, unpredictable weather, and the need for local knowledge. Guides and Sherpas are essential for managing the logistics and ensuring the climbers’ safety throughout the expedition.

  • For a successful Cho Oyu expedition, climbers need specialized equipment and clothing to handle the extreme altitude, freezing temperatures, and rough terrain. Essential items include high-altitude mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axes, and ropes for technical climbing. Oxygen tanks and masks are necessary for breathing at higher elevations. Climbers should also have a durable down jacket, insulating layers, and a windproof outer layer to protect against sub-zero temperatures. A high-quality sleeping bag rated for extreme cold, a four-season tent, and lightweight cooking gear are required for base camps. Sunglasses and goggles protect against the sun’s glare and snow blindness, while a climbing harness, carabiners, and ascenders ensure safety on steep sections of the climb.

  • Climbing Cho Oyu is a mentally demanding challenge that requires mental fortitude, patience, and resilience. Climbers must be emotionally prepared to handle isolation, harsh weather, and physical exhaustion over long periods. Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial, as the climb involves moments of doubt, uncertainty, and fatigue. Emotional preparedness helps climbers stay focused on the goal and manage stress effectively. Successful climbers typically use techniques such as visualization, mindfulness, and self-reflection to stay grounded. Setting smaller, achievable goals throughout the climb, focusing on the process rather than the summit, and having a strong support network can also help climbers manage the mental challenges. Emotional resilience is key to pushing through difficult moments and remaining focused on the summit.

  • Comprehensive travel and medical insurance are essential for a Cho Oyu expedition due to the inherent risks of high-altitude mountaineering, including altitude sickness, injury, and severe weather conditions. Insurance ensures that climbers are financially protected in the event of an emergency, including medical evacuation, which can be extremely expensive and logistically complex. It also covers any trip interruptions, lost baggage, or gear, providing peace of mind throughout the journey. An emergency evacuation plan is crucial because of the remote location of the expedition, where quick access to medical facilities may be impossible. Having pre-arranged evacuation services, such as helicopter rescue, can be life-saving if the climber faces altitude-related complications or severe health issues requiring immediate attention.

You May Also LikeSimilar Itineraries
Mt. Lhotse Expedition 8516M
Mt. Lhotse Expedition 8516M
Difficulty: Challenging 46 Days
Max. Height: 8516

US $22000

Mt. Cho-Oyu Expedition 8188M
Mt. Cho-Oyu Expedition 8188M
Difficulty: Challenging 43 Days
Max. Height: 8188

US $35000

Mt. Dhaulagiri Expedition 8167M
Mt. Dhaulagiri Expedition 8167M
Difficulty: Challenging 42 Days
Max. Height: 8167

US $15000

Mt. Annapurna I Expedition 8091M
Mt. Annapurna I Expedition 8091M
Difficulty: Challenging 42 Days
Max. Height: 8091

US $15000

Mt. Manaslu Expedition 8163M
Mt. Manaslu Expedition 8163M
Difficulty: Challenging 38 Days
Max. Height: 8163

US $18000

Mt. Pumori Expedition 7161M
Mt. Pumori Expedition 7161M
Difficulty: Challenging 33 Days
Max. Height: 7161

US $11000