Nepal

Question
Bob, I am going to Nepal in October this year to the Khombu Region. What can you tell me about the ChoLa Pass and the conditions to expect at that time of year. Will we need any technical gear, ropes, crampons ...?
Also I heard there is a pass from EBC or Gorak Shep area that crosses over toward Dingbouche. What can you tell me about this pass? I appreciate any help/advice you can provide.  

Answer
Eric,
Last time I was there, the ChoLa was one that is somewhat of a scramble but can have some snow and ice. Since it depends upon the weather as to what you will encounter, you should either plan on taking some technical gear (you may or may not use it) or try the pass but have an alternate route already built into your schedule. We tried the pass one time and got near blizzard conditions and opted for the longer route around. It wasn't a bad thing.
From Gorak Shep, we just walked straight down to Tengboche. It was only a day's walk down from Base Camp. We went by way of Loboje and Periche.

Hope you have a great trip.

Bob