Spring and autumn are the main seasons for Cho Oyu. For a Tibet-side climb you need Chinese permits arranged through an agency, and a visa for Tibet. Trekkers in Nepal only need the usual Everest region permits to see the mountain from Gokyo.
Season
Climbers go in autumn, from about September to October, which is the most popular window on the Tibet side, and in spring. The monsoon is generally avoided.
Tibet permits
Climbing on the Tibet side needs permits from the Chinese authorities, arranged by a registered agency. Rules change, so ask for current details.
Nepal permits
Trekking to Gokyo needs the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the local municipality permit.
Insurance
Choose a policy that covers climbing to 8,000 m and evacuation.
Travel into Tibet
Travel to Tibet requires an approved itinerary and a group permit, and rules for foreign visitors can change at short notice. Confirm before booking flights.
What to ask an agency
Ask how many climbers per guide, whether oxygen is included, what rescue plans exist and how permit changes are handled.
Plan it
See the routes.
