Everest Three Passes Trek – The Ultimate High-Altitude Challenge
The Everest Three Passes Trek is the ultimate Himalayan adventure, designed
for those seeking a challenging and scenic route through the
Everest region. This trek takes you across three breathtaking high-altitude
passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—offering
unparalleled views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
A Complete Circuit of the Everest Region
Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, the Three Passes Trek provides
a full circuit, covering remote valleys, glacier crossings, pristine alpine
lakes, and lesser-visited Sherpa villages. Along the way, you will experience
the rich culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people, passing through
historic settlements like Namche Bazaar, Thame, and Gokyo.
Highlights of the Everest Three Passes Trek
This trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness some of the
world’s tallest peaks and stunning landscapes:
- Cross Three High Passes – Conquer Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m),
and Renjo La (5,360m).
- Panoramic Views of the Himalayas – Spectacular sights of Everest,
Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Nuptse.
- Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri – Explore the turquoise glacial lakes and climb
Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for an incredible sunrise.
- Authentic Sherpa Culture – Visit Tengboche Monastery, Thame, and Khumjung
.
- Glacier Crossings & Alpine Landscapes – Walk across the Ngozumpa
Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.
Is the Everest Three Passes Trek Right for You?
This trek is best suited for experienced trekkers with good physical
endurance. It requires:
- Strong fitness level – Daily treks of 6-8 hours with high-altitude
ascents.
- High-altitude experience – The trek reaches over 5,500m
at several points.
- Cold & unpredictable weather preparedness – Proper gear, clothing,
and acclimatization are crucial.
📌 Plan Your Everest Three Passes Trek Adventure
If you're looking for an extraordinary adventure in the heart of the
Himalayas, the Everest Three Passes Trek is an unmissable challenge.
Whether you're drawn by the thrill of crossing three high passes,
the breathtaking mountain views, or the rich Sherpa culture,
this trek promises an unforgettable experience.
Get ready to embark on the most adventurous trek in Nepal! Contact us today
to plan your journey.
Everest Three Passes Trek – Day-by-Day Itinerary
🔹 Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,350m (4,428ft)
Welcome to Kathmandu, the cultural hub of Nepal! Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, we'll have a detailed trek briefing to prepare for your adventure.
🔹 Day 2: Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding
Altitude: 2,800m (9,184ft) – Lukla | 2,652m (8,698ft) – Phakding
Flight Time: 35 min from Kathmandu
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
We take a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. After meeting our guide and porters, we trek through Chaurikharka village and descend to Dudhkoshi River, reaching Phakding for an overnight stay.
🔹 Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440m (11,283ft)
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Today’s trek includes crossing suspension bridges, entering Sagarmatha National Park, and a steep uphill climb to Namche Bazaar, the biggest Sherpa village in the Everest region.
🔹 Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche
We spend the day acclimatizing by exploring Namche Bazaar. Activities include:
- A short hike to Everest View Hotel for panoramic views.
- Visiting Tenzing Norgay Museum & Khumjung Village.
- Exploring Namche’s vibrant market.
🔹 Day 5: Trek from Namche to Tengboche
Altitude: 3,860m (12,660ft)
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
We trek through pine forests and rhododendron trails, reaching Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Everest region, with stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
🔹 Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche
Altitude: 4,360m (14,300ft)
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
The trail descends through lush forests before climbing towards Pangboche and Dingboche, offering pristine Himalayan views along the way.
🔹 Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
We take a rest day for acclimatization, with optional hikes to:
- Nagarjun Hill for stunning views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
- Imja Valley, known for its prayer flags and chortens.
🔹 Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung
Altitude: 4,750m (15,580ft)
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
We trek through Imja Valley, passing glacier moraines and yak pastures, before reaching Chhukung. A side trek to Chhukung Ri (5,546m) provides breathtaking panoramic mountain views.
🔹 Day 9: Cross Kongma La Pass & Trek to Lobuche
Altitude: 5,535m (18,159ft) – Kongma La | 4,940m (16,210ft) – Lobuche
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
The challenging ascent over Kongma La Pass offers spectacular glacier views before descending to Lobuche.
🔹 Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp & Return to Gorakshep
Altitude: 5,364m (EBC) | 5,180m (Gorakshep)
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Today is the highlight of our trek as we reach Everest Base Camp, standing beneath the towering Khumbu Icefall.
🔹 Day 11: Hike to Kalapathar & Trek to Dzongla
Altitude: 5,545m (18,192ft) – Kalapathar | 4,830m (15,842ft) – Dzongla
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 17km
We wake up before dawn for a challenging hike to Kalapathar, one of the best viewpoints of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Pumori. Witness an unforgettable sunrise over the Himalayas before descending back to Gorakshep for breakfast.
Afterward, we trek downhill to Lobuche and take the westward trail towards Dzongla, walking along the Khumbu Glacier with amazing views of Awi Peak.
🔹 Day 12: Cross Cho La Pass & Trek to Gokyo
Altitude: 5,368m (17,611ft) – Cho La Pass | 4,800m (15,748ft) – Gokyo
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 15km
We start early for the steep and challenging climb to Cho La Pass, one of the most technical and icy sections of the trek. The ascent is tough, with sections of glacier crossings and rocky terrain.
From the top of Cho La Pass, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Lobuche East. After crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest in Nepal, we reach the serene Gokyo Valley, home to the stunning Gokyo Lakes.
🔹 Day 13: Rest Day & Climb Gokyo Ri
Altitude: 5,357m (17,575ft) – Gokyo Ri
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 6km
We take a well-deserved rest in Gokyo Village and embark on a sunrise climb to Gokyo Ri, offering one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes.
After descending, trekkers can explore additional Gokyo Lakes or relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
🔹 Day 14: Cross Renjo La Pass & Trek to Lungden
Altitude: 5,360m (17,585ft) – Renjo La Pass | 4,210m (13,810ft) – Lungden
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 14km
We start the trek early, following a gradual incline along Dudh Pokhari Lake before reaching the Renjo La Pass. The pass offers spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Rolwaling Range.
After the pass, the descent is steep with loose scree. We pass Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake before reaching Lungden, a small but beautiful village.
🔹 Day 15: Trek from Lungden to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440m (11,283ft) – Namche Bazaar
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 16km
We descend through a traditional Tibetan trade route, following the Bhote Koshi River. The trail passes Thame Village, home to one of the oldest monasteries in the Everest region.
After crossing several suspension bridges, we reach
Namche Bazaar, where trekkers can enjoy a hot shower, bakery,
and some well-earned rest.
🔹 Day 16: Trek from Namche to Lukla
Altitude: 2,800m (9,184ft) – Lukla
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 19km
The trek fromNamche Bazaar to Lukla follows a scenic downhill trail through
dense rhododendron forests and Sherpa villages. We cross the
Hillary Suspension Bridge
over theDudh Koshi River before reachingLukla, where we
celebrate the successful
completion of our trek.
🔹 Day 17: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,350m (4,428ft) – Kathmandu
Flight Time: 40 minutes
We take anearly morning scenic flight back to Kathmandu. After arriving in the
capital,
trekkers have the rest of the day toelax, explore Thamel, or shop for souvenirs.
🔹Day 18: Kathmandu: Departure Day
Our amazing journey in the Everest region including that to the base camp of Mt. Everest and
crossing high passes comes to an end today. A company representative will pick you up from
you hotel and drop you off at the airport 3 hours before our scheduled flight.
📌 Plan Your Everest Three Passes Trek
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a lifetime adventure. Ready to experience the ultimate Himalayan challenge? Contact us today!
🎒 Essential Packing List for Everest Three Passes Trek
Proper preparation is key to a successful high-altitude trek. Here’s a
comprehensive packing list to help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable
during your Everest Three Passes Trek.
Clothing – Stay Warm in Freezing Temperatures
Down Jacket: Warm, lightweight, and compact.
Thermal Base Layers: Essential for insulation against the cold.
Hat & Gloves: Protects from wind and freezing temperatures.
Trekking Pants & Fleece Liner: Keeps you warm during cold nights.
Footwear – Stay Comfortable on the Trail
Waterproof Trekking Boots: Essential for rough and snowy terrain.
Warm Wool Socks: Keeps feet dry and prevents blisters.
Essential Trekking Gear
Backpack (40-50L): Large enough for essentials and comfortable to carry.
Trekking Poles: Reduces strain on knees and improves stability.
Sleeping Bag (-20°C Rated): Ensures warmth in freezing temperatures.
Other Essentials
Sunglasses: Protects against UV rays at high altitudes.
Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Prevents sunburn in intense sunlight.
First Aid Kit: Includes painkillers, altitude sickness medicine, and bandages.
Water Purification Tablets: Essential for clean drinking water.
📌 Need help with gear? We offer equipment rentals & expert packing advice for your trek!
❓ FAQs – Everest Three Passes Trek
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Everest Three Passes Trek. Learn about the best trekking seasons, difficulty level, altitude concerns, permits, and essential packing tips.
What is the best time to trek the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The best time for this trek is during:
- Spring (March – May) – Enjoy rhododendron blooms, clear skies, and mild temperatures.
- Autumn (September – November) – Best for stable weather, crisp air, and breathtaking visibility of Everest and surrounding peaks.
How difficult is the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The trek is considered moderately to highly challenging, requiring good physical fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for:
- Long walking days (5-8 hours per day).
- High altitude trekking, reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m).
- Cold temperatures and steep ascents & descents.
Do I need a guide for this trek?
A guide is not mandatory but highly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Trekking solo is possible but requires experience with:
- High-altitude trekking & acclimatization techniques.
- Route navigation & weather preparedness.
What permits do I need for the trek?
Trekkers need the following permits:
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
What should I pack for the trek?
Essential packing items include:
- Warm Clothing – Down jacket, fleece layers, thermal wear.
- Trekking Boots – Waterproof & well-broken-in.
- Sleeping Bag – Rated for -20°C temperatures.
- Sunglasses & Sunscreen – Protect against UV rays at high altitudes.
- Water Purification Tablets – Safe drinking water is essential.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude sickness is a major concern, as the trek reaches above 5,000m. To minimize risks:
- Acclimatize properly – Take rest days (e.g., at Namche & Dingboche).
- Trek at a steady pace – Avoid rapid ascents.
- Stay hydrated – Drink 3-4 liters of water daily.
- Carry altitude sickness medication (Diamox if recommended by a doctor).
What kind of accommodation is available?
Throughout the trek, trekkers stay in local teahouses & lodges that provide:
- Basic twin-sharing rooms with blankets.
- Dining areas with heating (in some teahouses).
- Meals – Dal Bhat, pasta, soups, momos, and hot drinks.
How do I prepare for the Everest Three Passes Trek?
Preparation should start at least 2-3 months before the trek:
- Cardio & endurance training – Running, hiking, and stair climbing.
- Strength training – Leg workouts to handle steep ascents/descents.
- Breathing exercises – To adapt to lower oxygen levels.
What should I eat during the trek?
Stick to high-energy, easily digestible foods:
- Dal Bhat (Rice & Lentils) – The best trekking meal.
- Noodles, Soups, Porridge – Easy on digestion.
- Fresh fruits, Energy Bars, Nuts – Provides instant energy.
What happens in case of an emergency?
In case of altitude sickness or other emergencies:
- Helicopter evacuations are available (Ensure you have travel insurance covering evacuation).
- Medical assistance is available at major points like Namche Bazaar.
📌 Need More Details?
Still have questions? Contact us for expert trekking advice & itinerary customization!
