Everest Three Passes Trek

Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will greet you and guide you to your hotel. Once you reach the hotel, you can check in, freshen up, and take some time to relax. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by Himalayan Dream Team.

Today, our adventure begins at Kathmandu Domestic Airport, where we will take a 45-minute flight to Lukla. The flight offers stunning views of the fertile middle hills, scattered villages, terraced fields, and the majestic high Himalayas in the background. Upon arrival in Lukla, we meet the rest of our trekking team, take a break for tea or coffee, and commence our trek to Phakding. The trail initially descends gradually to Cheplung village, providing us with a glimpse of Mt. Khumbila, a sacred mountain that remains unclimbed.

After breakfast from Phakding the trail continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley, staying 100m above the river on its west bank. The trail leads us to Jorsale (2810m) where we enter the Sagarmatha National Park, and submit our trekking permits for checking. From here we continue on an ever-steepening trail to Namche Bazaar (3440m), known simply as Namche. En route we cross the spectacular suspension bridge high above the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and the Dudh Kosi, and shortly after glimpse our first view of Everest, way off to the north-east. The trail to Namche is steep and long, but eventually we reach the remarkable Sherpa capital perched high on the hillside and dominated to the east by the immense bulk of Kwangde

Since we are fast gaining altitude, this is the first of the two scheduled “acclimatization” days. Health experts always recommend to stay active and moving during the rest days instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day hike to Thame or visiting Khunde or relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and a colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday. If we climb a few hundred feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region.

Tengboche (or Thyangboche) is a village in Khumjung. The trek to PhunkiThanga is an easy walk. From there, we ascend to Tengboche village, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Everest region. It sits within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The monastery opens at 3:00 pm, so arriving by then allows us to witness a Buddhist religious ceremony.

After that, we'll go to Tengboche. We'll check in at our guesthouse and then explore the area. One of the top places to visit is the Tengboche monastery. It's the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region and sits among the beautiful Himalayan mountains. Inside, there are lovely murals and sculptures to see. After our visit, we'll go back to our lodge and spend the night in Tengboche.

From Phorse Village we trek down the narrow trail through a Monastery. We continue our trek through lush alpine forests until we reach large village of Upper Pangboche, where we will get astonished by the dramatic views. We then continue through the villages of Shomare, Orsho, and Tsuro Wog. The trek goes further up through the Khumbu Khola Valley to the ridge top from where we witness spectacular views of the soaring mountains of Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lotse, Cholatse, etc. We even can observe the beautiful Imja Khola valley to the east. Thereafter, we see sprawling fields and the settlement of Dingboche overlooked with Chortens and prayer flags as we gently ascend down to the Dingboche village.

From there, we'll continue our ascent through the Khumbu region, reaching Dingboche after about five hours of trekking. Upon arrival, we'll drop off our bags, kick off our boots, and indulge in a satisfying home-cooked meal at a local guesthouse before calling it a night.

Spending a day in Dingboche to acclimate to the high altitude is on today's schedule, helping us adjust to the thinning air and reduced pressure. Though not mandatory, a recommended acclimatization strategy includes a side trip to Chhukung at 4730m. This involves a short hike eastward up the Imja Khola valley, offering stunning views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak. Alternatively, we can climb the ridge above Dingboche as another option.  

Trek to Chhukung, a quaint settlement used as a staging point for further ascents. Post-lunch, attempt the climb to Chhukung Ri, a peak that provides exceptional views across the valley to Ama Dablam and Amphu Labcha peaks. This day tests your endurance and rewards with breathtaking panoramas.

Embark on one of the most challenging days, crossing the Kongma La Pass, the highest of the three passes. This route involves a steep ascent followed by a descent to Lobuche, where the effects of high altitude are mitigated by the stunning landscape of the Khumbu Glacier.

Trek towards Gorak Shep, the last stop before reaching the Everest Base Camp. Traverse rocky and glacial trails before finally stepping onto the iconic base camp, a dream for many trekkers. Absorb the surreal environment and celebrate this significant achievement. Return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay

An early start to climb Kala Patthar for a sunrise view over Mt. Everest. This spot offers one of the best vantage points for Everest views. Later, descend to Lobuche for the night, reminiscing about the morning's golden sunlit peaks.

The journey continues as you head to Dzongla, another beautiful spot that offers unique views and a quieter trail compared to the earlier days of the trek.

Cross the Cho La Pass, your second high pass, which involves navigating through steep trails and rocky paths. The effort is rewarded with the arrival at Gokyo, a serene location with emerald lakes and a spectacular glacier view

Utilize this rest day by climbing Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of the grandeur that is Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and beyond. Also, explore the series of Gokyo Lakes, each offering tranquil settings and photogenic landscapes

The final pass, Renjo La, offers yet another perspective of the Everest region, with expansive views that are starkly different and spectacular. Descend to Lumde, marking the conclusion of pass crossings.

Begin your return trek, descending to Namche Bazaar. This day allows for reflection onthe journey as you retrace steps back through familiar landscapes.

Your final trekking day leads you back to Lukla, where the loop of your journey closes. Celebrate the last night of your trek with your crew, reflecting on the remarkable adventure.

Fly back to Kathmandu, enjoying the last glimpses of the mountains from above. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or souvenir shopping, followed by a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your journey.

A buffer day in Kathmandu to accommodate any delays from Lukla and to explore more of the city's cultural sites

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight or consider extending your stay to explore more of Nepal’s wonders.

Optional tours to places like the Chitwan National Park can be arranged for continued adventure.