The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Everest region. This trek is perfect for those wanderers seeking to experience the ultimate Himalaya’s glory. This trek offers an unparalleled adventure as you cross three high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Renjo La (5,360 meters). Each of these three passes provides breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.
Everest Three Pass Trek is a perfect blend of classic Everest Base Camp Trek with a lot more challenges added on top. Apart from trekking up to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters), you will also trek to the stunning Gokyo Lakes, the famous viewpoint of Kala Patthar (5,545 meters), and the remote valleys of the Khumbu region.
Everest Three Passes Trek starts from the bustling town of Lukla. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla itself is adventurous. It takes 18 to 21 days to finish the trek, depending on the itinerary. The trekking trail takes you from lush forests and rhododendron-covered hills to the unparallel beauty of the high-altitude rugged terrains. Along the way, you will get to experience the unique culture and traditions of Sherpas, visit ancient monasteries, and get delighted with the warm hospitality of Sherpas.
Unlike the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek, The Three Passes Trek is for experienced trekkers looking for a challenging trail. This trek is demanding and requires a good level of physical fitness, mental toughness, and proper acclimatisation to deal with the high altitudes.
If you are planning for the trek, then get ready, as the Everest Three Passes Trek is a test of endurance, resilience, and determination. However, for those who are up for the challenge, the rewards are immense, offering a deep sense of accomplishment and memories that will last a lifetime.
The best times to embark on the Everest Three Passes Trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:
While trekking in winter (December to February) and summer/monsoon (June to August) is possible, these seasons present significant challenges. Winter brings extreme cold, snow, and ice on the passes, while the monsoon season brings heavy rains, slippery trails, and cloud-covered mountains, making the trek more difficult and less enjoyable.
16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 2,800 meters (Lukla), 2,610 meters (Phakding)
Duration: 3-4 hours of trekking
Kick off your trek with an exhilarating flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where you’ll meet your guide and porters. From here, start your trek to Phakding, passing through lush forests and traditional Sherpa villages. This gentle descent is a perfect way to ease into the adventure.
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Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 3,440 meters
Duration: 6-7 hours of trekking
Crossing several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, you’ll trek through pine forests, with glimpses of peaks like Thamserku along the way. The climb to Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Khumbu, is challenging but offers breathtaking views of Everest on clear days.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Spend the day exploring Namche and acclimatizing to the altitude. A hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village provides panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks, while giving you a chance to soak in Sherpa culture and hospitality.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 3,860 meters
Duration: 5-6 hours of trekking
Today’s trail meanders through rhododendron forests and offers stunning mountain vistas. Arriving in Tengboche, you’ll visit the renowned Tengboche Monastery, surrounded by towering peaks like Ama Dablam. The monastery’s serene ambiance makes for a peaceful stop.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 4,410 meters
Duration: 5-6 hours of trekking
Climbing higher, the landscape changes to rugged terrain as you enter the Imja Valley. You’ll reach Dingboche, a cozy village framed by towering mountains, where you’ll notice the air becoming thinner as you prepare for the upcoming high-altitude challenges.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Spend another day adjusting to the altitude with optional hikes to Nangkartshang Peak or Chhukung. These hikes offer stunning views and help your body adapt to the thinner air, preparing you for the first pass.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 4,730 meters
Duration: 3-4 hours of trekking
Today’s trek is shorter, as you continue toward Chhukung, the gateway to Kongma La Pass. This small settlement offers a taste of solitude in the mountains and gives you a chance to relax before tackling the first of the three passes.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 5,535 meters (Kongma La), 4,940 meters (Lobuche)
Duration: 7-8 hours of trekking
Crossing the Kongma La Pass, the highest and most challenging of the three passes, is a thrilling experience. The views from the top are phenomenal, showcasing peaks like Makalu. Descend carefully into the Khumbu Glacier valley to reach Lobuche for the night.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 5,170 meters (Gorak Shep), 5,364 meters (EBC)
Duration: 7-8 hours of trekking
Today’s trek takes you to Gorak Shep, and from there, you’ll continue to Everest Base Camp. Reaching EBC is a momentous achievement, with views of the Khumbu Icefall and the base of the mighty Everest. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 5,545 meters (Kala Patthar), 4,830 meters (Dzongla)
Duration: 7-8 hours of trekking
An early morning hike up Kala Patthar offers a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise over Everest and its neighboring peaks. After savoring the views, descend to Dzongla, setting the stage for the next pass, Cho La.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 5,420 meters (Cho La), 4,750 meters (Gokyo)
Duration: 7-8 hours of trekking
The journey over Cho La Pass is challenging, with icy slopes and rocky terrain. Descending from the pass, you’ll arrive in Gokyo, where the stunning Gokyo Lakes and views of Cho Oyu make for a perfect end to an intense day.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Take a well-deserved rest day to explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and hike up Gokyo Ri for an unforgettable sunrise view over Everest, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding peaks. This day allows you to rest and recharge before the final pass.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 5,360 meters (Renjo La), 4,210 meters (Marlung)
Duration: 7-8 hours of trekking
Crossing the third and final pass, Renjo La, brings exhilarating views of the Himalayas. Descending into the Thame Valley, you’ll reach Marlung, a quiet village that feels like a hidden gem in the Khumbu region.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 3,440 meters
Duration: 5-6 hours of trekking
Today’s descent brings you back to Namche Bazaar. The return to this vibrant Sherpa town is a welcome change, allowing you to relax and reflect on your journey through some of the most remote parts of the Khumbu.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Tea House
Altitude: 2,800 meters
Duration: 6-7 hours of trekking
The trail from Namche to Lukla is a pleasant one, giving you time to savor your last views of the mountains and bid farewell to the region. In Lukla, you’ll celebrate the completion of your trek and prepare for the journey back to Kathmandu.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner 16 Days
Duration: 30-35 minutes
Your Everest Three Passes Trek concludes with a flight back to Kathmandu. As you soar over the mountains, reflect on the incredible experiences, challenges, and breathtaking scenery that made this trek unforgettable.
MEALS BreakfastThe Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Everest region, requiring a high level of physical fitness and mental endurance. The trek involves crossing three high-altitude passes, each over 5,000 meters, as well as steep ascents and descents. Altitude sickness is a significant concern, making proper acclimatization and pacing essential.
To trek the Everest Three Passes, you need the following permits:
These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the entry points to the trek.
The trek is extremely challenging, suitable for experienced trekkers with high fitness levels. It involves crossing three passes over 5,000 meters.
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for stable weather and clear skies.
Yes, prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended due to the trek's difficulty and the altitude involved.
Engage in regular cardio, strength training, and long practice hikes. Acclimatization and mental preparation are crucial.
Altitude sickness is a serious concern due to the high passes. Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential.
Teahouses provide basic accommodations with shared rooms and bathrooms. Amenities vary depending on the location.
Yes, it’s safe when done with a reputable company like Trip Pokhara. Guides and porters ensure safety and provide support.
Costs vary but generally range between $1,500 to $2,500, depending on services, duration, and group size.
Yes, travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is mandatory.
Solo trekking is possible but highly discouraged due to the trek’s complexity and the risks involved. Joining a guided group is safer.
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