Cholatse is a steep, pointed mountain of about 6,440 m in the Khumbu region of Nepal. It rises above the village of Dzongla and the Cho La pass, and can be seen from several famous trekking routes. It is a technical climbing peak, not a walk-up trekking peak.
Where it stands
Cholatse sits in the Khumbu, a few kilometres from Dzongla and the Cho La pass, and above the glacial lake called Cholatse Tso. It faces the Gokyo valley on one side and the Khumbu valley on the other, so you can spot it from both.
Its shape
The mountain looks like a sharp ridge and a steep face of ice and rock, with a pointed summit. Photographers like it for its sharp outline against the sky. Many trekkers mention it as one of the most dramatic peaks they saw.
Height
Sources quote slightly different heights. The most common figure is about 6,440 m, and you may also see 6,335 m. The difference comes from different surveys and maps. A guide will usually quote the figure used on the map in front of them.
Trekking peak or expedition peak?
Cholatse is not one of the standard trekking peaks like Island Peak or Mera Peak. The climbing is steep and technical, with ice, mixed ground and an exposed ridge, and it suits experienced alpine climbers.
Who visits it
Most visitors never climb it. They see it from the trail while crossing the Cho La or walking to Gokyo. A few climbing teams attempt it each season with a guide and a plan.
Cholatse Tso
The lake below the mountain has a lovely reflection on still mornings. It lies off the main trail and is reached by a short detour from the Dzongla side, if conditions are right and your guide agrees.
Common questions
Is Cholatse near Everest? It is in the same Khumbu region, a few days of walking from the main trail, and not visible from Everest Base Camp itself. Can I climb it with a trekking permit? No, a trekking permit only covers walking. Is it the same as Tabuche? No, Tabuche Peak is a different mountain in the same group, and the two are often mixed up in photographs.
What to bring to see it
Warm layers, sun protection and a camera with a zoom are enough. The best viewpoints are on normal trails, so you do not need climbing gear. Carry a map or app that names peaks, and ask your guide to confirm each one.
Respect for the area
The Khumbu is home to Sherpa villages and sacred sites. Keep to marked paths, take rubbish out and ask before photographing people or religious objects.
Plan it
Read how to see Cholatse on the Cho La route, climbing difficulty and permits and the best season.
