Cho Oyu
In Nepali: चोयु
Cho Oyu (8,188 m) rises above the Nangpa La, the old trade pass between the Khumbu and Tibet. It is often called the most accessible of the 8,000 m peaks, though almost all expeditions climb it from the Tibetan side.
From Nepal it is best admired from Gokyo, where it fills the northern end of the valley and glows pink at sunset over the lakes.
Where to see it
Cho Oyu's broad south face is the backdrop to the Gokyo lakes; the best views are from Gokyo Ri and from the fifth and sixth lakes further up the valley. The Renjo La pass between Thame and Gokyo also gives a sweeping view of it alongside Everest.
Good to know
Cho Oyu was first climbed in 1954 by an Austrian expedition via the north-west ridge from Tibet. The Nangpa La pass to its west was for centuries the main trade route between the Khumbu and Tibet, used by Sherpa traders with yak caravans.
Quick answers
- Where is Cho Oyu?
- Cho Oyu is in Solukhumbu district, Koshi Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Cho Oyu?
- About 8,188 m (26,865 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Cho Oyu?
- For a 12-day trip from Kathmandu, about NPR 124,500 (≈ US$920) per person on a budget, or NPR 141,500 (≈ US$1,050) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 54,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Cho Oyu?
- Plan 10 nights there for the trek; with travel from Kathmandu and back, about 12 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Cho Oyu?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 5,000 / US$37 to enter Sagarmatha National Park plus the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu municipality fee (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Cho Oyu?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Cho Oyu?
- October–November
- How do I get to Cho Oyu?
- Seen from Gokyo and Gokyo Ri. It is about 138 km (straight line) from Kathmandu, and usually reached by flight.
- What is Cho Oyu called in Nepali?
- चोयु
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