21 Days
- Best Price Guarantee
- Secure Online Booking
- Flexible booking dates
- Owner operated company
- Decades of experience
Need Assistance?
Speak with a trip expert
Trip Facts
Trip Duration
20 Days
Trip Difficulty
Extreme
Max. Altitude
5,550 m
Group Size
2-14
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
3 Star Hotel and Lodges
Destination
Nepal
Activity
Trekking
Vehicle
Private Car
Highlights of Everest Three Passes Trek
- Breathtaking High Passes
- Iconic Everest Base Camp
- Kala Patthar Summit
- Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri
- Namche Bazaar and remote Villages
- Monasteries and Stupas
- Diverse Landscapes and wildlife
- Challenging Adventure
Trip Overview
Everest Three Passes Trek: An Epic Himalayan Adventure
The Everest Three Passes Trek is an exhilarating journey. It takes trekkers through the most stunning and challenging terrains in the Himalayas. This trek is not just about reaching three high passes. It’s an immersive experience that covers three high mountain passes—Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m)—each offering its own unique and life changing experience of the world’s highest peaks.
A Comprehensive Himalayan Experience
This trek is designed for those adventure makers who looking for to experience the full spectrum of what the Everest region has to offer. Crossing three passes Trek starts with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Trekkers are immediately plunged into the heart of Sherpa culture and the majestic beauty of the mountains.
The route takes you through the bustling town of Namche Bazaar, where you will acclimatize with your Team. While exploring Namche’s the local markets and mingling with fellow trekkers give you a complete experience of Sherpa Culture.
Most trekking companies design the Everest Three Passes Trek itinerary to be completed in an anticlockwise direction, starting from the east and ending in the west. However, our unique itinerary follows a clockwise route, beginning in the west and concluding in the east.
Renjo La Pass: The First Challenge
The first major milestone on this trek is the Renjo La Pass. Ascending along the trail reveals breathtaking panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the tranquil Gokyo Lakes below.
The turquoise waters of the Gokyo lakes contrast sharply with the rugged, snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal landscape that is a photographer’s dream. Crossing Renjo La is both challenging and rewarding, providing a sense of accomplishment and stunning vistas that are hard to match.
Cho La Pass: The Icy Conquer
Next, the trek leads to the Cho La Pass, a demanding route that requires traversing a glacier. The icy landscape and steep ascents make this one of the more difficult sections of the trek. However, the effort is well worth it. From the top of Cho La, trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring views of the towering peaks and deep valleys that characterize the Everest region. This pass also serves as a gateway to the famous Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, where the views of Everest are unparalleled.
Kongma La Pass: The Final Frontier
The last of the three passes is the Kongma La. This pass is often considered the most challenging due to its altitude and the rugged terrain. The path is less traveled, offering a more solitary and serene trekking experience. From the top of Kongma La, the panoramic view includes some of the highest peaks on the planet, providing a fitting climax to the trek. The descent from Kongma La takes you through the picturesque village of Chhukhung and then to Dingboche, a popular rest spot.
Cultural and Natural Richness
Throughout the trek, you will encounter the rich cultural tapestry of the Sherpa people. Visits to ancient monasteries, including the famous Tengboche Monastery, provide insight into the spiritual life of the region. The ever-present prayer flags, chortens, and mani walls add a spiritual dimension to the journey.
The natural beauty is equally captivating. From dense rhododendron forests and glacial rivers to the barren, high-altitude landscapes, the Everest Three Passes Trek offers an ever-changing panorama. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Himalayan Thars, pheasants, and, if lucky, the elusive snow leopard.
Preparation and Challenges
The Everest Three Passes Trek is not for the faint-hearted. It demands a high level of physical fitness and mental determination. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Trekkers must be prepared for long days of walking, often in harsh weather conditions. However, for those who are well-prepared and determined, this trek offers an adventure of a lifetime.
In conclusion, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. It combines physical challenge with cultural immersion, making it an unforgettable experience for those who dare to take it on. Whether it’s the thrill of crossing high passes, the serenity of the Gokyo Lakes, or the majestic views of the Everest massif, this trek promises a profound sense of achievement and memories that will last a lifetime.
Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary
01
Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, preparing for the trek, or simply resting after your flight.
Duration
30 Minutes Drive
Distance
7 Km
Vehicle
Car/ Van
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Tourist Standard Hotel
02
Day 02 Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Spend the day visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, attend a trek briefing and prepare your gear for the adventure ahead.
Duration
5 to 6 Hours Tour
Distance
16 Km
Vehicle
Car/Van
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Tourist Standard Hotel
03
Day 03 Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,651m)
A scenic flight from Kathmandu takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Begin your trek with a gentle descent to Phakding, passing through charming Sherpa villages and lush forests along the way.
Duration
3 to 4 hours Trek
Distance
5 Km
Vehicle
Car/ Van
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
04
Day 04 Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. A steep ascent brings you to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital, where you can acclimatize and explore local markets.
Duration
5 to 6 hours Trek
Distance
7.4 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
05
Day 05 Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Spend the day acclimatizing to the higher altitude. Take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, or visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and the Everest Photo Gallery.
Duration
3 to 4 hours Tour
Distance
3 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
06
Day 06 Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3,800m)
On the sixth day of your Everest Three Passes Trek, you will leave the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar and head towards the serene village of Thame. The trek begins with a gradual ascent through pine forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As you walk, you’ll pass through small Sherpa settlements and see the traditional lifestyle of the local people.
The trail to Thame is less frequented by trekkers, providing a more peaceful and authentic experience. Along the way, you will cross suspension bridges and walk alongside the Bhote Koshi River, with its glacial waters adding to the scenic beauty of the trek.
Duration
5 to 6 Hours Trek
Distance
8. 7 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
07
Day 07 Trek from Thame to Lungden (4,350m)
Continue your journey through alpine landscapes to Lungden, a remote village offering spectacular views and a peaceful environment.
Duration
5 to 6 hours Trek
Distance
8 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
08
Day 08 Trek from Lungden to Gokyo via Renjo La Pass (5,360m)
On the seventh day, you’ll set off on one of the most challenging and rewarding segments of the Everest Three Passes Trek. The day begins early, as you make your way from Lungden to Gokyo, crossing the formidable Renjo La Pass. This pass is one of the three high passes in the region, standing at an impressive altitude of 5,360 meters.
The trek starts with a steep ascent, navigating rocky terrain and icy paths. As you climb higher, the views become increasingly breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other towering peaks. The climb to Renjo La Pass is strenuous, requiring determination and careful pacing, but the effort is well worth it.
Upon reaching the top of Renjo La Pass, you are greeted with one of the most stunning viewpoints in the Everest region. The sight of the Gokyo Lakes shimmering below, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is truly mesmerizing. Take some time to rest, take photos, and soak in the incredible scenery.
The descent from Renjo La Pass to Gokyo is gradual and offers more beautiful views of the glacial lakes and valleys. As you approach Gokyo, you’ll pass by the series of turquoise lakes, each more captivating than the last. The village of Gokyo, located on the shores of the third lake, serves as a tranquil resting spot after the day’s arduous trek.
In Gokyo, you’ll find comfortable lodges where you can rest and recover. The village also offers opportunities for exploration, including a hike to Gokyo Ri for a spectacular sunset view. This day, lasting 8 to 9 hours, is both physically demanding and immensely rewarding, marking a highlight of your Everest Three Passes adventure.
Duration
8 to 9 hour Trek
Distance
8.5 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
09
Day 09 Acclimatization Day in Gokyo and Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m)
A day to rest and acclimatize. Take a morning hike to Gokyo Ri for one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas, including four 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Duration
3 to 4 hours Tour
Distance
4
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
10
Day 10 Trek from Gokyo to Thagnak (4,750m)
Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, to reach the small settlement of Thagnak. The trail offers unique views of the glacier and surrounding peaks.
Duration
4 to 5 Hours Trek
Distance
3.7 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
11
Day 11 Trek from Thagnak to Dzongla via Cho La Pass (5,420m)
### – 7-8 hours
The journey from Thagnak to Dzongla via Cho La Pass is a strenuous yet immensely rewarding segment of the Everest Three Passes Trek. Beginning early in the morning from Thagnak, you will embark on a 7-8 hour trek that traverses challenging terrain and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Khumbu region.
The initial part of the trek involves a steep and rocky ascent towards Cho La Pass. As you climb higher, the trail can become icy and slippery, requiring careful footing and use of trekking poles. The ascent is demanding, with the altitude and rough terrain adding to the challenge, but the magnificent scenery provides constant motivation.
Reaching the top of Cho La Pass, at an altitude of 5,420 meters (17,782 feet), is a significant achievement. From the pass, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of towering peaks, including Cholatse, Ama Dablam, and Lobuche East. The sight of these majestic mountains surrounding you is truly awe-inspiring and offers a perfect opportunity for photographs and a well-deserved rest.
The descent from Cho La Pass to Dzongla is gradual but requires caution due to loose rocks and potential icy patches. As you descend, the landscape transforms from rugged high-altitude terrain to more verdant valleys and meadows. The path winds through glacial moraines and along the edge of a stunning glacier, adding to the day’s visual feast.
Arriving in Dzongla, you’ll find a small settlement with welcoming lodges where you can rest and recover. The village is nestled in a beautiful valley with close-up views of Cholatse and other nearby peaks. This day’s trek, lasting 7 to 8 hours, is both physically demanding and incredibly rewarding, marking another highlight in your Everest Three Passes adventure.
Duration
7 to 8 Hours Trek
Distance
10.5 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
12
Day 12 Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m)
A relatively short trek takes you to Lobuche, with spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, and other towering peaks along the way.
Duration
3 to 4 hours
Distance
6.5 Km
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
13
Day 13 Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m) and Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Follow the trail to Gorak Shep, then continue to Everest Base Camp. Spend some time exploring the base camp area and taking in the awe-inspiring views before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.
Duration
7 to 8 hours Trek
Distance
13 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
14
Day 14 Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m)and Trek to Lobuche
Start early for a hike to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for a close-up view of Mount Everest. Descend to Lobuche after enjoying the sunrise over the Himalayas.
Duration
7 to 8 hours Trek
Distance
12 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
15
Day 15 Trek from Lobuche to Chhukhung via Kongma La Pass (5,535m)
The trek from Lobuche to Chhukhung via Kongma La Pass is one of the most exhilarating and challenging days of the Everest Three Passes Trek. Starting early in the morning from Lobuche, you will embark on an 8-9 hour journey that will take you over the highest of the three passes.
Leaving Lobuche, the trail ascends steadily, winding through rocky terrain and moraines. As you climb higher, the landscape becomes more rugged and barren, a stark but beautiful contrast to the greenery of the lower valleys. The ascent to Kongma La Pass is demanding, with steep sections and loose scree that require careful navigation.
Reaching the summit of Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters (18,159 feet) is a monumental achievement. From the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. The sight of these towering giants against the backdrop of a clear blue sky is a moment of pure awe and exhilaration.
The descent from Kongma La Pass to Chhukhung is equally challenging, with steep and rocky sections that demand focus and surefootedness. The trail gradually leads you down through glacial moraines and past pristine alpine lakes, each step bringing you closer to the green meadows and fields that surround Chhukhung.
Arriving in Chhukhung, you will be greeted by the sight of cozy lodges and the warm hospitality of the locals. Nestled in a high-altitude valley, Chhukhung offers stunning views of Ama Dablam and other nearby peaks. This small village is a haven for trekkers, providing a perfect place to rest and recover from the day’s exertions.
This day’s trek, lasting 8 to 9 hours, is one of the highlights of the Everest Three Passes Trek. It tests your endurance and rewards you with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Himalayas, making it an unforgettable part of your journey.
Duration
8 to 9 hours Trek
Distance
8.5 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
16
Day 16 Trek from Chhukhung to Tengboche (3,870m)
Follow the trail through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery.
Duration
5 to 6 hours Trek
Distance
12.9 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
17
Day 17 Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, enjoying the scenic landscapes and Sherpa hospitality.
Duration
6 to 7 hours Trek
Distance
18 Km
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
18
Day 18 Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m)
Descend through the Dudh Koshi Valley, passing through familiar villages and lush forests. Arrive in Lukla and celebrate the completion of your trek.
Duration
6 to 7 Hours Trek
Distance
18.5 Km
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Local Teahouse
19
Day 19 Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,300)
Take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city.
Duration
30 Minutes Drive
Distance
7 Km
Vehicle
Car/Van
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Tourist Standard Hotel
20
Day 20 Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before being transferred to the airport for your departure.
Duration
30 Minutes Drive
Distance
7 Km
Vehicle
Car/Van
Meals
Excluded
Accommodation
Excluded
Trip Note:
During the peak trekking seasons from September to November and March to May, Kathmandu to Lukla flights operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. This adjustment helps manage the heavy air traffic congestion at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
Trip Information of Everest Three Passes Trek
A Comprehensive Himalayan Experience
This trek is designed for those adventure makers who looking for to experience the full spectrum of what the Everest region has to offer. Crossing three passes Trek starts with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Trekkers are immediately plunged into the heart of Sherpa culture and the majestic beauty of the mountains.
The route takes you through the bustling town of Namche Bazaar, where you will acclimatize with your Team. While exploring Namche’s the local markets and mingling with fellow trekkers give you a complete experience of Sherpa Culture.
Most trekking companies design the Everest Three Passes Trek itinerary to be completed in an anticlockwise direction, starting from the east and ending in the west. However, our unique itinerary follows a clockwise route, beginning in the west and concluding in the east.
Renjo La Pass: The First Challenge
The first major milestone on this trek is the Renjo La Pass. Ascending along the trail reveals breathtaking panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the tranquil Gokyo Lakes below.
The turquoise waters of the Gokyo lakes contrast sharply with the rugged, snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal landscape that is a photographer’s dream. Crossing Renjo La is both challenging and rewarding, providing a sense of accomplishment and stunning vistas that are hard to match.
Cho La Pass: The Icy Conquer
Next, the trek leads to the Cho La Pass, a demanding route that requires traversing a glacier. The icy landscape and steep ascents make this one of the more difficult sections of the trek. However, the effort is well worth it. From the top of Cho La, trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring views of the towering peaks and deep valleys that characterize the Everest region. This pass also serves as a gateway to the famous Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, where the views of Everest are unparalleled.
Kongma La Pass: The Final Frontier
The last of the three passes is the Kongma La. This pass is often considered the most challenging due to its altitude and the rugged terrain. The path is less traveled, offering a more solitary and serene trekking experience. From the top of Kongma La, the panoramic view includes some of the highest peaks on the planet, providing a fitting climax to the trek. The descent from Kongma La takes you through the picturesque village of Chhukhung and then to Dingboche, a popular rest spot.
- Best Price Guarantee
- Secure Online Booking
- Flexible booking dates
- Owner operated company
- Decades of experience
Need Assistance??
Speak with a trip expert
