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Everest Three Passes Trek | The Ultimate High-Altitude Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek | The Ultimate High-Altitude Trek

Overview

Join the Himalayan Dream Team for an unparalleled adventure in the heart of Nepal's Everest region on the Everest Three High Passes Trek. This challenging trek takes you through three high-altitude passes—Renjo La (5,465 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Kongma La (5,535 meters)—each offering breathtaking views of the towering Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Designed for seasoned trekkers, this journey promises not only physical challenge but also unmatched scenic beauty.

The trek is a less crowded alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp trek, guiding you through secluded communities, lush forests, and stunning high-altitude valleys. The panoramic vistas of the Himalayas and the serene Gokyo Valley are truly mesmerizing. Highlights of the trek include stops at Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Ri, each providing unique and unforgettable views that will stay with you long after the trek is over.

Cultural immersion is a significant aspect of the Everest Three Passes Trek. As you traverse through iconic Sherpa villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the rich traditions and hospitality of the Sherpa people. Visits to remote villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries offer deep insights into the local culture and spiritual practices, enhancing the overall trekking experience.

The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. From lush forests to high-altitude landscapes, every step of this trek reveals new wonders. Whether you’re standing at the top of a high pass or interacting with the local Sherpa community, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a journey of discovery and awe, promising memories that will last a lifetime. Join the Himalayan Dream Team and create a special place in your life with this unforgettable adventure through Everest’s majestic landscape.

Trip Highlights of Everest High Passes Trek

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour: Explore Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath Stupa, each offering unique cultural and historical insights.
  • Scenic Flight to Lukla: Enjoy a breathtaking 35-minute flight from Kathmandu or a 20-minute flight from Manthali/Ramechhap to Lukla.
  • Three High Passes: Conquer Renjo La (5,465 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Kongma La (5,535 meters) for breathtaking Himalayan views.
  • Everest Base Camp: Visit the iconic Everest Base Camp and experience the thrill of standing at the base of the world's highest peak.
  • Panoramic Vistas: Witness unparalleled views from Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri, offering some of the best panoramas in the region.
  • Sherpa Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and hospitality of the Sherpa people in villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar.
  • Ancient Monasteries: Explore remote Buddhist monasteries and gain insights into local spiritual practices.
  • Gokyo Valley: Discover the serene beauty of the Gokyo Valley and its stunning turquoise lakes.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Trek through lush forests, high-altitude valleys, and secluded communities, experiencing the diverse landscapes of the Everest region.
  • Adventure and Challenge: Suitable for seasoned trekkers, this trek offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure.

Everest Three Passes Trek | The Ultimate High-Altitude Trek Itinerary

Details Outline

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.

Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Highest Altitude
1335 m

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.

Food
Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
2800 m

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

Food
Brakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3440 m
Walking Hours
5/6

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.

Food
Breakfast- Lunch- Dineer
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3440 m

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.

Food
Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3870 m
Walking Hours
5/6

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.

Food
Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4410 m
Walking Hours
5/6

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.  

Food
Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge

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.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4730 m
Walking Hours
6/7hrs

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.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
5535 m
Walking Hours
6/7hrs

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

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
5364 m
Walking Hours
6/7hrs

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.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4940 m
Walking Hours
8/9hrs

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.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4830 m
Walking Hours
3/4hrs

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

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4700 m
Walking Hours
7/8hrs

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

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge

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.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
4368 m
Walking Hours
6/7hrs

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

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
Lodge
Highest Altitude
3438 m
Walking Hours
6/7hrs

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.

Food
Breakfast-Lunch- Dinner
Accomodation
lodge
Highest Altitude
2800 m
Walking Hours
6/7hrs

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.

Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Highest Altitude
1335 m

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

Food
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel
Highest Altitude
1335 m

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.

Food
Breakfast

Not satisfied with this itinerary?

If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preference and specification.

Service Included on Trip Cost

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Welcome dinner hosted by HDT
  • Hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu with private transport and entrance fees
  • Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla
  • Three meals a day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permits and TIMS card
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
  • Government-licensed English-speaking experienced guide and porter(s)
  • Porter for trekkers' luggage (one porter for two trekkers, maximum weight limit 18 kg, one trekking luggage limit 9 kg)
  • Coverage for guide and porters including meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flights, and necessary equipment

Cost Excludes

  • International flight airfare
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure
  • Nepal visa on arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu (USD 50 and 4 passport-sized pictures needed)
  • Travel insurance covering emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation.
  • Personal expenses
  • Additional costs due to delays caused by factors beyond the company's control like landslides, weather conditions, safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
  • Tips for staff
  • Any costs or expenses not mentioned in the "Included" list.

Everest Three Passes Trek | The Ultimate High-Altitude Trek Altitude Profile

Route Map

route map

FAQs

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

The Everest Three Passes trek includes the Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 m).

This trek is considered challenging due to its high altitudes, steep climbs, and the length of the trek. It's suitable for physically fit individuals with prior trekking or mountaineering experience.

The  Everest Three Passes trek typically takes about 18 to 21 days depending on the itinerary and pace of trekking.

The best times to undertake the Three Passes Trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, offering more stable weather conditions and clearer views.

Yes, due to the challenging nature and remote paths, hiring a guide is highly recommended for safety reasons and for better navigation through the passes.

You will need the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. Your trekking company can arrange these for you.

Similar to the Everest Base Camp trek, accommodations are primarily in teahouses which offer basic facilities and meals.
 

Mobile coverage is sporadic and not reliable. Some villages may have Wi-Fi available for a fee, but it's best to prepare for limited communication.

Essential gear includes thermal clothing, waterproof jackets, sturdy trekking boots, sleeping bags suitable for low temperatures, a first-aid kit, and a headlamp. Consider carrying trekking poles and ice axes for the passes.

The main risks involved in the Three Passes Trek include altitude sickness, unpredictable weather changes, and icy or slippery paths. Adequate preparation and acclimatization are key to managing these risks.

Costs can vary widely, typically between $1,500 and $2,500, depending on the trekking agency, group size, and services included.

Engage in cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming, or cycling. Also, practice hikes that include long duration walks on uneven terrain to build stamina and muscle strength.

Yes, obtaining travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation is crucial.

Teahouses along the trek offer a mix of local and international cuisines but primarily serve simple, high-carbohydrate foods like dal bhat, noodles, and soups which are ideal for high-energy trekking days.

Be mindful of leaving no trace. Carry all non-biodegradable materials back with you or dispose of them properly at designated facilities. Use water purification tablets to minimize the use of plastic bottles.

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