Everest Three Passes Trek

Solukhumbu District in the Himalayas of Nepal

Tour snapshot

Duration:
20 Days

Min Group Size:
2 persons

Location:
Nepal

Tour Type:
Everest Region

Overview

The Everest Three Passes Trek with EBC is the most thrilling and adventurous trek in the Everest region. Those who want to add a little more adventure to the already popular Everest Base Camp should consider crossing the three high alpine passes: Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters, Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters, and Renjo La Pass at 5,340 meters. This trek crosses paths that are normally not accessible through the standard Everest Base Camp trek. The Everest three-pass trek offers breathtaking Himalayan landscapes while crossing high passes. The itinerary for this trek covers all three high passes, Everest Base Camp, Kala Pathar, and the Gokyo Lakes, in a single push. The routes of this trek are well marked as they lead through lush forests, raging rivers, thrilling suspension bridges, glacial lakes, and stunning mountain vistas. This trekking route offers some of the most spectacular scenery and mountain views in the world, including Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), and the Gokyo Lakes (from 4,700 to 5,000 m).

The duration of the Everest Three Pass trek can go up to 17-22 days, depending on the itinerary, whether acclimatization days are included, and so forth. This trip is considered very strenuous, requiring one to walk continuously for approximately 6-7 hours every day.

Highlights

Conquering three legendary high-altitude passes: Kongma La (5,545m.), Cho La (5,420m.), and Renjo La (5,360m.
Enjoy the stunning vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Taboche, and Thamserku.
Explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten paths in the Everest region.
Trek alongside the raging rivers and through the lush green forests.
Enjoy heart meals at cosy tea houses and lodges along the trail.
Create adventure memories and achievements for a lifetime.

Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmand (1,400 m.) arrival and transfer to the hotel

1,400 m.

First of all, you have to come to Nepal. Representatives from our hotel, the Holy Himalaya Hotel, will come to pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. We’ll give you orientation about the trek after you have settled in the hotel.

Day 02: Fly to Lukla(2,860 m.) and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m.)

2,860 m.

35 minutes Flight and 4 Hours Trek

We transfer to the domestic airport for our flight to Lukla. Lukla is a small town with an airport, a few tea shops, lodges, hotels, and general stores. Nupla (5,885m) can be seen in the distance on the opposite bank—a peak atop the Kongde Ridge. We descend a mountainside path that merges into our route to Everest, with views to a valley to our right and, at its far end, Kusum Kang (6,367m). The Dudh Kosi approaches as we pass a Mani wall and arrive at the Ghat tea house. We continue along a small path with many ups and downs, following the left bank of Dudh Koshi to Phakding.

Day 03: Trek from Phakding (2,610 m.) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m.)

3,440 m.

Today, we trek and cross the river on high suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo (2,800m) is the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park, which was established to protect and preserve this fragile mountain environment. We then ascend quite steeply to Namche, and along the way, if the weather is clear, we catch a first glimpse of Mt. Everest in the distance. We can also enjoy the views of Mt. Kusum Kanguru (6,367 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), Kongde Ri (6,187 m), and Tawache Peak (6,495 m). Namche is the main trading village in the Khumbu region and holds a busy Saturday market. This used to be a meeting place for the Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that had reached there by crossing the glaciated Nangpa La before the Nepal-Tibet Road was constructed.

Day 04: Acclimatisation day at Namche (3,440 m.), hike and return back to Namche (3,440 m.)

3,440 m.

We spent a rest day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatisation and sightseeing in the surrounding areas. Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, tea shops, and souvenir shops, as well as a magnificent outlook. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatisation before heading off towards Tyangboche. We can walk up to the Khunde Hospital, which was built by Sir Edmund Hillary, or take a one-hour walk up to Syangboche (3,800 m), where the Everest View Hotel is situated. From here, we will have an outstanding view of Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Thamserku, and Kusum Kanguru. There are also good views of the peaks from the National Park Centre and Museum just above the town.

Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m.) to Thame (3,800 m.)

3,800 m.

6-7 Hours

Our trek to Thame from Namche Bazaar runs along the spectacular Bhote Koshi, which is decorated by pine and rhododendron forests. Along the way, we find a stupa gracing the landscape at Phurte with a mud-plastered disposition. Continuing with the trek, the route follows on to quaint villages of Thamo and Thamo Gompa, eventually dropping sharply towards the Khumbu Hydroelectric Plant. Thame is at the head of the Khumbu Valley, our ultimate destination today and traditionally a village of famous Sherpa mountaineers. Apa Sherpa, for one, scaled Everest no less than 21 times while Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, one of the most famous Sherpas of all time, grew up here before becoming the first man with Edmund Hillary to reach the summit of Mt. Everest.

Day 06: Trek from Thame (3,800 m.) to Lungden (4,380 m.)

4,380 m.

6 Hours

The villages offer spectacular scenery, vegetation, and peaks; a sight of the boulders with natural artwork, colourful lichens, and yaks in front of snow-capped peaks viewed at an early hour of the morning give surrealism. Passing through Taranga, the last village of the valley, we proceed further to Marulung situated at 4200 metres, on the way to Lungden. Spare moments are spent learning about Nakpa Valley's history as a Tibetan trade route or taking quiet time for a walk to Cho Relmo Lake, drinking in the serene splendor of the Himalayas.

Day 07: Trek from Lungden (4,380 m.) to Gokyo (4,750 m.) crossing Renjo La Pass (5360 m.)

5360 m.

8-9 Hours

Today will be an exciting day, as views of crossing the Renjo La Pass are one of the major highlights of our trek. From here, we begin a fascinating day's trek to the Gokyo Lakes, where traditional human pursuits depend on the season-yak herding. On reaching Renjo La Pass, get scared with a panoramic view of tall peaks: Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, and Mt. Cho Oyu. Our gaze will stride across to catch the awesome sight of Dudh Pokhari, the third of the five majestic Gokyo Lakes, with the quaint Gokyo village nestled beside it. Now, from this pass, we descend into the enchanting Gokyo Valley; icy trails are to be watched out for as we may face the possibility of falling along the trails. Get ready for an unparalleled journey into a sea of wilderness!

Day 08: Hike to Gokyo Ri Sunrise Summit (5,357 m.) and Trek to Thangnak (4,700 m.)

5,357 m.

7 Hours

From here, we will ascend to Gokyo Ri Viewpoint and watch the sunrise that offers dazzling views of the Everest region: Thonak Tsho Lake and Ngozuma Tsho Lake. The trek from here, by the Ngozumpa Glacier, the path will be rocky, with several ups and downs. As we move further down the valley along the eastern glacial moraine, the scenery changes into an awesome and encouraging landscape that presses us onward. Tonight, Thangnak sees us staying in this tranquil lodge setting-a collection of them-ideal and well-positioned to prepare us for the Cho-La high pass. Breathe in the tranquility into this place, preparing you for the next journey ahead.

Day 09: Trek from Thangnak (4,700 m.) to Dzongla (4800 m.) via Cho La Pass (5,420 m.)

5,420 m.

8-9 Hours

Today's hike is demanding as we make our way over uneven trails and glacial moraines to the village of Dzongla. The high point of our day? An epic crossing over the Cho La Pass-5420 m/17,783 ft-along a section of trail that connects Dzongla to Thagnak. This sensational pass offers one-of-a-kind views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. From here, after catching the breathtaking views, we descend down to Dzongla, where we will be staying overnight, taking enough rest for the next day's adventure.

Day 10: Trek from Dzongla (4800 m.) to Lobuche (4,950 m.)

4,950 m.

4 Hours

Following a peaceful night at Dzongla, we eagerly set out for Lobuche. Today marks our return to the classic Everest Base Camp Trek route. Starting our day by tracing the moraine and descending alongside Chola Lake, we encounter poignant memorials honouring climbers lost in this region. We start our pleasant trek to Lobuche following the trails of the Imja Khola Valley. Ruggedly beautiful, it promises a great experience once we reach Lobuche. Every step gets us nearer to re-joining the main trail and, once again, to the Everest region. Each vista is another reminder of the indomitable spirit of those who ventured here before us.

Day 11: Trek to Gorakshep (5,140 m.) via Kala Patthar Sunset Summit (5,545 m.)

5,545 m.

6-7 Hours

This day will, at last, allow one to see Mt. Everest near and in majesty. We set off with a hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m), also known as the Everest View Point. At Kala Patthar, the striking views and the golden sunset spectacle on Mt. Everest are a treat. We start our descend to Gorak Shep to spend the night after basking in the glory of that unforgettable moment. The glimpse of the highest peak in its full glory will engrave in one's mind with a sense of adventure and mystery as we trace our journey downstream.

Day 12: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m.) and descend to Lobuche (4,950 m.)

5,364 m

8-9 Hours

On the twelfth day of our journey, we finally arrive at Everest Base Camp. It is not about arriving at a place; it is about reaching the test of one's unbreakable determination, positive attitude, and perseverance. In conquering EBC, you have overcome yourself. Here, against the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas, we will take time to drink in the views that few on earth ever see. As we click our cameras a million times, the realization of this moment dawns on us. Wrapping up the camp, we slowly go down to Lobuche, our destination for that day, getting saturated with the enormity of Everest Base Camp. Really, it would be carrying photographs in the camera but carrying within us an indefatigable spirit that fetched us here.

Day 13: Trek from Lobuche (4,960 m.) to Chukhung (4,700 m.) via Khumbu Glacier and Kongma La Pass (5,525 m.)

5,525 m.

9 Hours

Today is the day when we overcome the last of the three passes on our route, starting from Lobuche. We start our climb to Kongma La Pass, considered the most difficult of the three. The trail, although considered intimidating, is decorated with frozen lakes, and a mummified crane marks its summit in a striking fashion. From Kongma La, one can see a brilliant panorama of iconic peaks: Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Makalu, Baruntse, and Ama Dablam. We drop down from the pass and enter the eastern side of Nigyang Khola Valley. The route leads us to Chukhung Village. Although it is basically a yak pasture with no permanent settlement, Chhukhung has lately been gaining popularity among trekkers for acclimatization reasons, so it's an important stop for us.

Day 14: Acclimatisation at Chukhung (4,700 m.)

4,700 m.

5-6 Hours

In this tranquil corner of Sagarmatha National Park, the trail offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling paths leading up to Tengboche. Chukhung, emerging as a teahouse village, serves as a haven for trekkers en route to Kongma La and climbers aiming for Island Peak. We use this loneliness and take one day for acclimatization. Chukhung Ri at 5,546 meters is on our schedule, offering breathtaking panoramas and showing the surrounding landscape in all its rugged beauty. Having ample time to rest and contemplate, we prepare for the following adventures-glad we have the time to stop and drink in the majesty of the Himalayas.

Day 15: Trek from Chukhung (4,700 m.) to Tengboche (3,860 m.) via Dingboche (4,410 m.)

4,700 m.

6-7 Hours

We make a downhill journey to the Imja Khola valley, passing through the beautiful village of Dingboche, famous for its stone-walled potato fields and buckwheat and green alpine pastures. On the way, we see traditional Kharkas at Tsura, Orsho, and Shomare, enhancing the beauty of our journey. Moving ahead, at Pangboche Village or Dingboche, it is also called a village all over the year in the valley. The route now heads toward Tengboche, from where fascinating views and peaks such as Amadablam (6856m), Everest (8848m), Nuptse (7861m), and Lhotse (8501m) can be seen. We will visit en route the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region, Tengboche Gompa, which allows us to delve into the rich cultural heritage amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery.

Day 16: Descent from Tengboche (3,860 m.) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

3,860 m.

5-6 Hours

Namche Bazaar is the scenic trail with plenty of wildlife of the highlands, including pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats, and even the snow leopard. Gradually making a climb uphill via steep slopes, where chortens and prayer flags dot the slopes, offers us magnificent views of the peak of Everest together with the fantastic backside of Lhotse. We stroll into the tranquil beauty of the wilderness that the Himalayas provide, taking every precautionary measure at the pace of a snail in order to get drunk with this pure vista. Every step gets us closer to Namche Bazaar, where vibrant culture awaits amidst the towering peaks of the Khumbu region.

Day 17: Trek from Namche (3,440 m.) to Lukla (2,860 m.)

3,440 m.

8 Hours

On the final day of our trek, we bid goodbye to the Himalayas and back to Lukla. After a very good breakfast, we descend on a steep trail now crossing the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. Continuing through the picturesque local villages nestled in the Dudh Koshi River Valley, one cannot help but think about the amazing journey undertaken over the past sixteen days. At Lukla, accomplishment and nostalgia begin filling the air-landscapes and the most unbelievable camaraderie forged along the way. The memories of a lifetime and different tussles just keep ringing at the end of our trek-precious time to be spent and cherished in these Himalayas, truly an adventure to remember.

Day 18: Return Flight to Kathmandu(1,400 m.) from Lukla (3,440 m.)

3,440 m

35 Minutes

Today, you will be back to Kathmandu if everything goes as per plan. You fly either to Manthali or directly to Kathmandu from Lukla airport according to the trekking season. During peak seasons like March, April, May, September, October, or November, the flight to Manthali is common, followed by a scenic drive to Kathmandu. You can fly directly from Lukla to Kathmandu during off-peak months such as December, January, February, June, July, and August. To make your trip easier and to avoid the Lukla-Manthali-Kathmandu route, you can share a helicopter with four other people. It costs around an extra 550 USD per person. As you look back on your trek in the Everest region, we hope it has been revitalizing.

Day 19: An Easy Day in Kathmandu (1,400 m.)

1,400 m.

Today is your rest day in Kathmandu after eighteen days of breathtaking and tiring trekking. You are free to do anything around this busy city. You can explore the culture and history by visiting different places, shop for souvenirs to remember your journey, and enjoy different street food that Kathmandu is famous for. Take this as an opportunity to rest, rejuvenate, and reflect on the incredible experiences of your trek. Take advantage of this day to further make your trip memorable, whether by walking through ancient temples, browsing the bustling markets, or simply lounging around in a cozy café.

Day 20: International Departure or Start a new Trip

Use your last morning in Kathmandu according to your flight time. Pack your things, check out of the hotel, and head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Or, you can continue your Nepal exploration and start a new trip. Cultural tour, art and craft, cooking class, river trip, cycling, National Park Safari, Pokhara, or even easier, plan a new trek within your time limit.

Included/Excluded

Airport Pickup & drop

Accommodation in Kathmandu (Holy Himalaya Hotel+ or Similar ) on twin sharing basis with breakfast.

Accommodation in lodges during the trekking days with breakfast (Up to Namche - 6 nights attached bathroom with hot running shower)

Kathmandu city tour by car/van/Hiace with English speaking guide

Highly experienced, licensed and English speaking guide and porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers) and their all expenses (Meals, accommodation, insurance and other expenses of trekking crew)

Welcome dinner on Day 01

First-Aid Kit

Company T-shirt

Sagarmatha National Park fees and TIMS card

Necessary equipment (Sleeping bag and Duffle bags - if necessary)

Kathmandu - Lukla – Kathmandu by plane or helicopter

Airfare for trekking crew

All government taxes and office expenses

Personal equipment and clothing

Your travel insurance (Compulsory)

Tipping for driver, guide, and porter as per your satisfaction

Personal Expenses

Anything else not mentioned on the included list

Service Fee Only, Explore Nepal Fully!

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FAQs about Everest Three Passes Trek

What is the Everest Three Passes Trek?

The Everest Three Passes Trek is the most complete trekking adventure in the Everest region of Nepal. It combines Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and the three high Himalayan passes—Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m). Holy Himalaya Eco Trek offers this trek for travelers seeking the ultimate Everest experience.

Why is the Everest Three Passes Trek considered the ultimate Everest trek?

The Everest Three Passes Trek offers everything in one journey—Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Kala Patthar sunrise, Sherpa villages, glaciers, monasteries, and three challenging mountain passes. It is more adventurous and scenic than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek.

Does the Everest Three Passes Trek include Everest Base Camp?

Yes. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek’s Everest Three Passes Trek includes a visit to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), where trekkers stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest.

Does the Everest Three Passes Trek include Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri?

Yes. The trek includes the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes and a hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region with panoramic Himalayan views.

What are the three passes in the Everest Three Passes Trek?

The three mountain passes are Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 m). Crossing these high-altitude passes makes this trek one of Nepal’s most adventurous trekking experiences.

Which is the hardest pass on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Kongma La Pass is generally considered the most difficult due to its steep ascent, rocky terrain, and high altitude. However, Holy Himalaya Eco Trek’s experienced guides ensure proper pacing and acclimatization for safer crossing.

How difficult is the Everest Three Passes Trek?

The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered challenging and is harder than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for long walking days, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions.

Is the Everest Three Passes Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners with good physical fitness and preparation can complete the Everest Three Passes Trek. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek recommends cardio exercises, stair climbing, hiking, and stamina training before the trek.

How fit do I need to be for Everest Three Passes Trek?

You should have good cardiovascular fitness and stamina for walking 5–8 hours daily at high altitude. Activities like hiking, jogging, cycling, gym workouts, and hill walking are highly recommended before the trek.

What is the highest altitude on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

The highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters, one of the best viewpoints for close-up sunrise views of Mount Everest and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

What mountains can I see on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Trekkers can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Thamserku, and many other Himalayan peaks throughout the journey.

What permits are required for Everest Three Passes Trek?

You need two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek handles all required permits for trekkers.

Does Holy Himalaya Eco Trek arrange permits for Everest Three Passes Trek?

Yes. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek arranges all necessary trekking permits, allowing trekkers to enjoy a hassle-free trekking experience in the Everest region.

How long does the Everest Three Passes Trek take?

The Everest Three Passes Trek usually takes 18–21 days, depending on acclimatization days, weather conditions, and trekking pace.

How do I get to Lukla for the Everest Three Passes Trek?

The trek begins with a scenic flight to Lukla. During peak trekking seasons, flights often operate from Ramechhap, while off-season flights may depart directly from Kathmandu.

What is the difference between Kathmandu and Ramechhap flights to Lukla?

During spring and autumn, Lukla flights are usually operated from Ramechhap Airport due to heavy air traffic in Kathmandu. In winter and monsoon, flights often operate directly from Kathmandu.

What accommodation is available on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Accommodation is mainly in tea houses and mountain lodges. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with twin-sharing beds, dining halls, and basic facilities throughout the trekking route.

Are there tea houses throughout the Everest Three Passes route?

Yes. Tea houses are available throughout most of the Everest Three Passes route, although facilities become more basic at higher elevations.

What meals are available during the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Trekkers can enjoy meals like Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, fried rice, pasta, potatoes, Tibetan bread, eggs, pancakes, momos, tea, and coffee. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.

Is WiFi available on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Yes, WiFi is available in many tea houses through Everest Link internet services, though connectivity may be slower and less reliable at higher altitudes.

How do I charge my electronics on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Most tea houses provide charging facilities for phones, cameras, and batteries for an additional fee. Carrying a power bank is strongly recommended.

What is the best season for Everest Three Passes Trek?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent mountain visibility.

Can Everest Three Passes Trek be done in winter?

Yes, but winter trekking is more challenging due to heavy snowfall, colder temperatures, and possible pass closures. Experienced trekkers seeking fewer crowds may still enjoy this season.

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Yes. Since the trek reaches above 5,000 meters, altitude sickness is a possibility. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek includes proper acclimatization, experienced guides, and safety monitoring throughout the trek.

Why choose Holy Himalaya Eco Trek for Everest Three Passes Trek?

Holy Himalaya Eco Trek provides experienced licensed guides, personalized service, safe acclimatization planning, permit arrangements, eco-friendly trekking practices, and customized itineraries for a safe and memorable Everest Three Passes adventure.

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Everest Three Passes Trek

Tour snapshot

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Included/Excluded

Service Fee Only, Explore Nepal Fully!

FAQs about Everest Three Passes Trek

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