Mountaineering Expeditions
Peak Climbing
Trekking

The Sixth Highest Mountain in the World

Cho Oyu Expedition 8,201m

Cho Oyu Expedition 8,201m

Overview

Season

April–May and September–October

Group Size

2+

Max Altitude

8,201m

Duration

30 Days

Cho Oyu Expedition (8,201 m) – Nepal / Tibet

Join the Cho Oyu Expedition, the sixth-highest mountain in the world at 8,201 meters, located on the Nepal-Tibet border. Known for its relatively moderate slopes and considered one of the more accessible 8,000-meter peaks, Cho Oyu offers an excellent high-altitude climbing experience for experienced mountaineers.

The expedition begins with preparation in Kathmandu, followed by travel to the base camp via either Tibet (Chinese side) or Nepal, depending on the route. Climbers follow a carefully planned acclimatization schedule, ascending through high camps with support from experienced Sherpa guides and a professional expedition team. Fixed ropes, glacier travel, and high-altitude safety measures are provided, with supplemental oxygen available if required.

From the summit, climbers enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. This expedition combines technical climbing, safe high-altitude practices, and stunning Himalayan landscapes, making Cho Oyu a prestigious and unforgettable expedition for seasoned climbers.

Itinerary

Cho Oyu Expedition 8,201m

30 Days • Itinerary Overview

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The day is free to rest and recover from international travel. In the evening, a short briefing is conducted to introduce the Cho Oyu expedition, logistics, and permits.

Day 02

Sightseeing and Tibet Visa Preparation (1,400m)

This day is dedicated to sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Tibet visa formalities are prepared and processed.

 

Day 03

Tibet Visa Issuance and Expedition Preparation

Final preparations for the Cho Oyu expedition are completed, including Tibet visa issuance, review of trekking and climbing permits, and packing of expedition equipment. Briefings on road travel and safety protocols are conducted.

Day 04

Drive to Syabrubesi (1,500m)

A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi begins the approach to the Tibet/Nepal border. The road passes terraced farmland, rivers, and small villages. Overnight stay at Syabrubesi allows for a smooth transition before entering Tibet.

Day 05

Drive to Kerong (Nepal/Tibet Border – 1,962m) and Pyaktsu

Drive to the Nepal–Tibet border at Kerong. After completing border formalities, you cross into Tibet and continue driving to Pyaktsu. The route follows the Zhangmu–Kerong Highway, passing rivers and valleys with changing landscapes as altitude increases.

Day 06

Drive to Tingri (4,300m)

The journey continues through Tibetan plateau landscapes with distant Himalayan views. Tingri is a small Tibetan town and a traditional staging point for climbers heading to Cho Oyu. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Tingri.

Day 07

Drive to Chinese Base Camp (5,100m)

From Tingri, the road continues to the Chinese Base Camp of Cho Oyu. The landscape transitions into high-altitude alpine terrain with moraine fields and glaciers. At Base Camp, climbers set up tents or stay in existing facilities, preparing for the climb.

Day 08

Rest Day at Chinese Base Camp (5,100m)

A full acclimatization day to adjust to high altitude. Short walks around the Base Camp are recommended to improve acclimatization. Equipment and climbing gear are checked in preparation for the ascent.

Day 09

Trek towards Advanced Base Camp – Mid Camp (5,400m)

The team begins ascending toward Advanced Base Camp (ABC), often stopping at Mid Camp for acclimatization and resting. The route involves moderate trekking over moraines and glacier-adjacent terrain.

Day 10

Trek and Arrive at Advanced Base Camp (5,700m)

Climbers continue to Advanced Base Camp, the main staging area for summit attempts. The ABC offers excellent views of Cho Oyu and surrounding peaks. Tents are set up, and climbers prepare for higher camps.

Day 11-25

Climbing Period – Summit Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m)

During this period, climbers undertake acclimatization rotations, move to higher camps (Camp I, II, III), and prepare for summit attempts. Weather windows are monitored closely, and summit pushes are planned accordingly. Following a successful summit, climbers descend safely back to Advanced Base Camp.

Day 26

Trek Back to Chinese Base Camp (5,100m)

After the summit attempt, the team descends back to Chinese Base Camp. Overnight at Base Camp allows for rest and recovery.

Day 27

Drive to Kerong (Nepal/Tibet Border – 1,962m)

Drive back through the Tibetan plateau to Kerong. Border formalities are completed before re-entering Nepal. Overnight at Kerong or nearby areas.

Day 28

Drive from Kerong to Kathmandu (1,400m)

A long scenic drive returns to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest, shopping, or sightseeing.

Day 29

Free Day in Kathmandu (1,400m)

A leisure day to rest after the expedition. Optional sightseeing, cultural tours, or a farewell dinner can be arranged.

Day 30

Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure, concluding the Cho Oyu Expedition.

Cho Oyu Expedition 8,201m

30 Days – Detailed Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The day is free to rest and recover from international travel. In the evening, a short briefing is conducted to introduce the Cho Oyu expedition, logistics, and permits.

02

This day is dedicated to sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Tibet visa formalities are prepared and processed.

 

03

Final preparations for the Cho Oyu expedition are completed, including Tibet visa issuance, review of trekking and climbing permits, and packing of expedition equipment. Briefings on road travel and safety protocols are conducted.

04

A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi begins the approach to the Tibet/Nepal border. The road passes terraced farmland, rivers, and small villages. Overnight stay at Syabrubesi allows for a smooth transition before entering Tibet.

05

Drive to the Nepal–Tibet border at Kerong. After completing border formalities, you cross into Tibet and continue driving to Pyaktsu. The route follows the Zhangmu–Kerong Highway, passing rivers and valleys with changing landscapes as altitude increases.

06

The journey continues through Tibetan plateau landscapes with distant Himalayan views. Tingri is a small Tibetan town and a traditional staging point for climbers heading to Cho Oyu. Overnight stay at a guesthouse in Tingri.

07

From Tingri, the road continues to the Chinese Base Camp of Cho Oyu. The landscape transitions into high-altitude alpine terrain with moraine fields and glaciers. At Base Camp, climbers set up tents or stay in existing facilities, preparing for the climb.

08

A full acclimatization day to adjust to high altitude. Short walks around the Base Camp are recommended to improve acclimatization. Equipment and climbing gear are checked in preparation for the ascent.

09

The team begins ascending toward Advanced Base Camp (ABC), often stopping at Mid Camp for acclimatization and resting. The route involves moderate trekking over moraines and glacier-adjacent terrain.

10

Climbers continue to Advanced Base Camp, the main staging area for summit attempts. The ABC offers excellent views of Cho Oyu and surrounding peaks. Tents are set up, and climbers prepare for higher camps.

11-25

During this period, climbers undertake acclimatization rotations, move to higher camps (Camp I, II, III), and prepare for summit attempts. Weather windows are monitored closely, and summit pushes are planned accordingly. Following a successful summit, climbers descend safely back to Advanced Base Camp.

26

After the summit attempt, the team descends back to Chinese Base Camp. Overnight at Base Camp allows for rest and recovery.

27

Drive back through the Tibetan plateau to Kerong. Border formalities are completed before re-entering Nepal. Overnight at Kerong or nearby areas.

28

A long scenic drive returns to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for rest, shopping, or sightseeing.

29

A leisure day to rest after the expedition. Optional sightseeing, cultural tours, or a farewell dinner can be arranged.

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure, concluding the Cho Oyu Expedition.

Trip Inclusions

Trip Inclusions

Everything you need for a comfortable and memorable trek

1. Transportation

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu (International & Domestic).

  • Land transfer from Kathmandu to Shigatse or Tingri (Tibet side) as needed, depending on itinerary.

  • All round-trip ground transfers between airports, hotels, Base Camp, and higher camps.

  • Porters and logistical support for expedition equipment within Tibet.

2. Accommodation

Kathmandu / Lhasa / Shigatse:

  • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, breakfast included).

  • Hotel accommodation in Lhasa or Shigatse as per itinerary.

Expedition Camps (Cho Oyu):

  • Full-board camping services for all expedition camps:

    • Base Camp: Tents, bedding, food, kitchen, and support staff.

    • Camp I & II: Tents, bedding, food, fuel, kitchen, medical oxygen, and staff support.

    • Camp III & IV (High Camps): Tents, food, oxygen, and Sherpa/expedition support.

Camp & Facilities Include:

  • High-quality expedition tents (single occupancy or double for members).

  • Dining tent, kitchen tent, communication tent, storage tent, toilet and shower tents.

  • Thick foam mattress and pillow, gas heater, solar charging for electronic devices.

3. Meals & Kitchen Support

  • Full-board meals at camps (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

  • Snacks during trek or expedition.

  • All kitchen equipment, fuel, tables, and chairs provided.

  • Experienced head cook and kitchen staff throughout the expedition.

4. Permits & Official Fees

  • Cho Oyu Tibet expedition permit.

  • Liaison Officer (L.O.) support including:

    • Salary, insurance, food & accommodation, airfare, and equipment.

  • Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) fees and trekking/expedition permits.

  • Local access fees for villages and restricted areas in Tibet.

5. Expedition Staff Support

  • One experienced climbing Sherpa per member.

  • Licensed expedition guide familiar with Tibet/Cho Oyu route.

  • Porters for equipment, camps, and logistical support.

  • Acclimatization climbs and rotations included as per expedition plan.

6. Climbing & Safety Gear

Per Member:

  • 4-liter oxygen cylinders × 6 bottles for high camps.

  • Masks and regulators; replacement if faulty.

Per Sherpa:

  • 4-liter oxygen cylinders × 4 bottles.

  • Masks and regulators.

Group Gear:

  • Fixed ropes, guide ropes, snow pickets, ice screws, carabiners, rock pitons, snow shovels.

  • Walkie-talkies with spare batteries.

  • Group safety and climbing equipment for camps and summit rotation.

7. Medical Support

  • Emergency oxygen cylinders and masks.

  • Comprehensive first-aid kit available at all camps.

  • High-altitude medical planning and evacuation support.

8. Environmental Management

  • Garbage, human waste, and operational waste management at Base Camp and higher camps.

  • Eco-friendly handling of expedition areas in Tibet.

  • All unseen operational and administrative costs.

Exclusions

Personal Expenses

  • International airfare to Nepal
  • Personal equipment (boots, climbing harness, gloves, jackets, crampons)
  • Personal trekking/medical insurance
  • Tips for guides, porters, or staff

Extra Services

  • Extra hotel nights outside itinerary
  • Optional sightseeing or recreational activities
  • Satellite phone, internet, or personal communications

Unforeseen Costs

  • Rescue or evacuation due to personal negligence or health issues
  • Weather-related delays (flights or lodging beyond plan)

Other

  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks purchased personally
  • Any items not mentioned in the inclusions

Trip Notes

Key Facts – Mt. Cho Oyu

  • ✔ Location: Tibet/Nepal border
  • ✔ Highlights: Cho Oyu summit, Tibetan plateau landscapes, glaciers, high-altitude acclimatization, and views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu
Adventure

Cho Oyu Expedition 8,201m

30 Days • No departure dates

No booking fees • Free cancellation up to 50 days