Cholatse Peak Climbing (6,440m), also known as Jobo Laphtsan, is a demanding 23-day expedition in Nepal’s Khumbu region designed exclusively for experienced mountaineers. This technical ascent features steep ice ridges and sharp faces, situated dramatically between the Gokyo and Khumbu valleys. (Its Tibetan name, “Cholatse,” translates to “lake pass peak,” referencing the lake below the pass near the mountain.)
Unlike other popular trekking peaks, Cholatse offers no easy route to the summit or descent, making it a serious and rarely ascended alpine challenge. First climbed in 1982 via the Southwest Ridge, the peak remains remote and untouched by large commercial groups, offering a true wilderness experience.
The 2025–2026 itinerary begins with a flight to Lukla, followed by trekking through Phakding, Namche Bazaar (where we explore Sherpa culture and ensure proper acclimatization), Dole, Machherma, Gokyo, and Thagnak before reaching base camp. Acclimatization is further aided by a hike to Gokyo Ri. The challenging summit push rewards climbers with breathtaking, panoramic views of Everest, Tawache, and the stunning Gokyo lakes below.
This climb is ideal for passionate alpinists who possess verified prior ice and rock-climbing experience. With significantly fewer crowds than popular peaks like Mera or Island Peak, Cholatse promises an intensely rewarding and remote mountaineering experience.
Join the 2025–2026 expeditions and push your limits on one of Nepal’s most formidable technical climbs.
This Cholatse peak is connected to Taboche (6,501m) via a long ridge, while the Chola Glacier descends off its east face. While en route to Mount Everest base camp, Dughla offers glimpses of Cholatse’s north and east faces. The southwest ridge was first scaled by Vern Clevenger, Galen Rowell, John Roskelley, and Bill O’Connor on April 22, 1982. In 1984, the north face was successfully climbed. Ueli Steck completed the first solo ascent via the north side on April 15, 2005. To reach the summit of Mt. Cholatse, climbers must take a flight from Lukla to Dingboche, acclimatize, continue to Cholatse Base Camp, and descend from Photse to Namche and Lukla.
Join the 2025–2026 expeditions and push your limits on one of Nepal’s most formidable technical climbs.