• Raj Kumar Basnet
  • Last Updated on Dec 30, 2023

The Everest region is full of magnificent wonders that attract thousands of nature enthusiasts worldwide. In that light, the high-altitude Himalayan Lakes of the Gokyo region are an attraction that lures many trekkers to the Everest region every year. The trek that takes you to Gokyo makes you cross the challenging Cho La Pass to finally gaze at the teal hue of the Himalayan Lakes. Not only that, but the journey will also take you to the base camp of the world's tallest mountain peak, Mt. Everest! But when would be the best time to go on an adventurous trek to Cho La Pass region?

We cannot begin to stress the glory of trekking in the Himalayas, especially the Everest region trek encompassing the Cho La Pass and the Gokyo lakes. It's not just the natural beauty of the Himalayas that makes the trekking route stand out among its counterparts. The varying topography, vegetation, culture, and trail make you ponder if you are actually journeying in the Himalayan paradise!

The eye-catching sight of the Himalayas makes your trek with Cho La Pass a worthwhile destination. Similarly, the panoramic views of the Himalayas get more explicit and more precise with every altitude landmark you overcome. The juxtaposition of the Himalayan peaks with the rhododendron-clad hills will make for a beautiful aesthetic.

As you start your journey from Lukla, you will begin to notice the perfect amalgam of nature with the rich cultural heritage of the Sherpa people. The Sherpas are native to the Everest region. It is a known fact that the Sherpas are the leaders in accomplishing the summit expedition of the Himalayan peaks, and it would be almost impossible to achieve the summit without them. They also have their rich Sherpa cultures and hospitality bound to mesmerize you!

The trek to Cho La Pass region offers it all. From the breathtaking views of the Himalayas to the rich wildlife and vegetation, from the traditions and cultures of the Sherpa people handed down from generation to generation to the architecture of the monasteries and stupas. The overall journey offers you a lot more than you ask for.

Although the trek in the Himalayas is possible throughout the year, the journey to the Cho La pass region of Everest shows its best colors in March. Thus, the month is a popular trekking month in the Everest region. It's among the trekkers' favorite. The features of March make it stand out among the other trekking months, and rightly so!

This article will discuss why you should consider trekking the Everest Cho La Pass region in March. We will also explore why March is among the favorite trekking months, which will add more value to your trek in the Everest region. First, let us learn about spring, the season that hosts March.

Table of Contents

Cho La Pass Region and Spring

Spring strikes Nepal with its welcoming arm and warm ambiance right after winter. So, the early months of the season might have some winter influences perfectly overlapping with spring colors. This makes the season quite favorable for trekking. It is not as cold as it is in the winter, and the atmosphere is surprisingly cheerful. Similarly, the sky suns brightly in spring, and you can trek on a cozy trail throughout your journey. With spring, the trees in the Everest region come back to life, and new buds of flowers and leaves add a beautiful contrast to the season. There are colors of spring everywhere. The wildflowers are also in full bloom in spring, and the atmosphere is vibrant. It hardly ever rains in spring, and the wind also has some gentleness. Likewise, you will encounter trekkers along the trail. It is a sight to see. Spring accentuates its best features in March!

Highlights of March Trek to Cho La Pass Region

Weather and Temperature

The weather in the Everest region is warm and cozy in March. Similarly, the sun shines brightly in the sky, and the atmosphere has a warm ambiance. March comes right after winter, so there are some winter effects to it. The wind blows softly in March and does not concern your visibility. Additionally, the sky is the clearest you will ever see this month, with no clouds. So, you need not be concerned about rain. In fact, it rarely ever rains in March. It's also the beginning of summer in Nepal, so you can get along without carrying thick heavy jackets. Some light layers will do for the trail. At nighttime, the sky is bright with twinkling stars. The Himalayan peaks are also visible during the night with the reflection from the stars. If you can manage a trek during full-moon, it will definitely be a plus point.

The weather is unpredictable in the Himalayas and more so in the Everest region. Having said that, based on the climate and weather data, it is evident that the weather is pretty stable in March. The temperature varies depending on the altitude zones. So, the temperature at the lower altitude is comparatively higher than at, the higher altitude. The average temperature varies by as high as 22 degrees Celsius and as low as -7 degrees Celsius. It is not an issue along the trail as the cool weather is compensated by the sunshine hours. However, it can be icy at night, especially in higher regions. Thus, carry some sleeping bags and protect yourself from the cold.

Additionally, the trail receives at least 5 to 7 sunshine hours daily, which aids in making the weather warm. The lower wind speed crossing the challenging Cho La pass will make the journey easier in March. This is why trekkers favor March for trekking the Cho La Pass and Everest region!

Crystal Clear Panoramic Himalayan Views

In March, the visibility is at its peak. So, you can gaze at the panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks throughout the trail. Similarly, because of the cloudless skies, the views of the range will not diminish due to fogging up of the clouds around the horizon, which usually occurs in the other seasons. The crystal clear views of the Everest Himalayas in March make it an excellent month to trek the region.

Colors of Spring

The features of spring are the most apparent in March. You can notice buddings in the trees beginning to take their shape. Similarly, the views of the rhododendron-clad red hills will no doubt mesmerize you. The vivid colors of the wildflowers further magnify the beauty of the trail. The journey is absolutely breathtaking, and every moment counts!

Rich and Diverse Flora and Fauna

As we walk along the trails of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO enlisted protected area in the Everest region; you can spot exotic wildlife. The national park is home to many threatened plants, animals, and birds native only to this region. So, this is a perfect opportunity for you to observe the rich biodiversity of the Everest region in March.

Busting Trails

March is a peak trekking month favored by many trekkers from different parts of the world. So, you will be able to interact with several trekkers throughout the journey. If you like making new friends, this is a perfect opportunity for you! Isn't it amazing making new friends with a shared love for the Himalayas?

Quick Flights

One perk about traveling to the Everest region in March is that you do not have to worry at all about your flights getting delayed or, in extreme cases, canceled. The sky is pretty cloudless throughout the month, so you do not have to worry about unpredictable weather interfering with your trekking plans! Having said that, it is also crucial that you take extra steps beforehand. We advise you to keep some additional days in your itinerary, just in case!

Festivals of March

Along with many other religions coexisting peacefully, Nepal is a thriving combination of Buddhism and Hinduism. Hindu celebrations like Holi, Ghode Jatra, and Shivaratri occur around March, which can help you learn more about Nepalese culture. You should be aware that because Nepal uses the lunar calendar for most of its festivals, holidays that fall in March one year can fall in February or April the following year.

Since many of Nepal's most fascinating March celebrations are drawn from Hindu traditions, mountains typically do not observe them. Regarding culture and religion, Tibetan Buddhism predominates in the Everest region. When planning a trek in Kathmandu, you can partake in celebrations before or after your journey. This will be an excellent opportunity for you to learn about the cultures in Nepal.

Tips for your March Trek to Cho La Pass and Gokyo Region

  • You must prepare yourself physically and mentally
  • Hiring a guide and a porter will make your journey comparatively easier
  • Make sure to trek through a trustworthy and reputable trekking company
  • If you are going solo, book your flights and accommodation in advance
  • Never forget to keep some extra days in your itinerary; just in case

Finally, the trek via Cho La Pass to the Gokyo lakes in the Everest region is a beautiful trekking destination, more so in March. We hope this blog has helped you understand the March trek in the Everest region! It is also essential to research your part as well. After all, the month you would like to go on a trek in the Himalayas also depends on your preferences! Happy Trekking.

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Raj Kumar Basnet

Raj Kumar Basnet

Hello, Hi & Namaste Everyone !

Raj Kumar Basnet holds more than two decades of travelling experience in different regions of Nepal. He has trekked in both popular and off-the-beaten-path Nepali trekking trails which have allowed him to gain expertise in tourism. With years of field experience under his belt, he is now concentrating on sharing as much of his tourism knowledge as possible. Now, the co-owner of Outfitter Nepal, he hopes that the knowledge he’s gained over the years would deem helpful for the travellers visiting Nepal!

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