Everest Three Passes Trek
Everest Three Passes Trek
Everest Three Passes Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek - 22 Days

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
Trip Facts
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5545 M
Group Size
2-20
Starts
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking and Hiking
Best Time
March to May & Sep to Dec

Highlights

  • A visit to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) allows trekkers to experience the base of the world’s highest peak and the surrounding Khumbu Glacier.
  • The trek includes a sunrise hike to Kalapattar (5,545m), which offers the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks.
  • The trek passes through the spiritual center of Khumbu, Tengboche Monastery, offering not only religious significance but also amazing views of Everest and Amadablam.
  • The trek includes strategic acclimatization days in places like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo, ensuring a safer and more comfortable journey.
  • Trekking through Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo gives you insight into the local culture, with traditional stone houses, monasteries, and beautiful terraced fields.
  • The trek takes you to the serene Gokyo Lakes (4,790m), a group of turquoise lakes set amidst spectacular Himalayan landscapes.
  • As you trek through Sagarmatha National Park, keep an eye out for wildlife such as the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and the iconic snow leopard.
  • The remote nature of the trek, with fewer trekkers compared to the standard Everest Base Camp route, allows for a more solitary and immersive Himalayan experience.

Everest Three Passes Trek Overview

During this 22-day adventure, you will connect with the Everest Three Passes Trek in the Everest Region, Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass. Stand face to face with the majestic beauty of nature, which holds the capacity to swipe you off your feet. Nevertheless, this part of the trek is equally challenging to conquer. Navigating the cold and enchanting terrain of the Himalayas, this journey will push your physical and mental boundaries, leaving you invigorated and humbled by the raw beauty of the mountains.

Our adventure begins with the Luka Airport. From here, a road leads us to the Dudh Koshi River, a constant companion throughout the trek. Continuing the well-established trial, we reach the Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Himalayas. This village gives perfect blends of traditions with modern amenities. As we leave the Namche Bazaar and move forward, the Khamdu Himalayan Unveil their magic.

Every step carries significance, demanding respect and caution as we navigate shifting ice, rocks, and landscapes.  Ascending towards Gokyo Valley, it reveals beautiful views of clear sky, lush meadows, and snowcapped peaks—a valley beside the gorgeous lake. The adventure continues with the jaw-dropping views towering over the landscape at a staggering 8481m of Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world.

Distance and Duration

Trekking through Everest Three Passes is one of Nepal’s longest routes, spanning 160 -185km. Though the trek may seem challenging, the trek sounds daunting, and the team of tidy Himalayas will guide you till the end. On the 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, covering an Actual distance above 138m, you will witness the iconic peaks of the Himalayas. The distance depends on your chosen route and the side trip you make. Kongma La Pass (5535m) is the highest and most challenging pass among others. Cho La Pass (5420m) offers dramatic views of mesmerizing landscapes. Renjo La Pass (5340m) is the most leisurely trek, and above all, it has the most beautiful views of Gokyo Valley.

Unlike the popular Everest Base Camp trek, this Expedition explores the Everest region deeper. Coping with the sudden change in the atmosphere and ensuring proper acclimatization require more time. The exact duration is determined by the role altitude plays. Typically, the expedition spans 16 to 23 days, with 21 days considered the gold standard.

Best Season to Visit Three Pass Treks

Spring (March) and Autumn (September – November) are the best seasons for trekking to enjoy the clear views of the sky, lush green forests, and mostly the safe route, unlike winter(December) and monsoon season where there is a slippery muddy path, the unpredictability of the weather. Accommodates are challenging to get since it’s a peak season. Lodges can get booked up quickly. In winter, trails are less crowded, and accommodation can be readily available with lower, but the trek is equally challenging during the off-season.

Itinerary

The Everest Three Passes Trek is a 22-day adventure that begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, where you’ll enjoy a sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites before preparing for the trek. A short and scenic flight to Lukla marks the start of the trek, leading to Phakding and Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa hub ideal for acclimatization. The journey continues with stops at Tengboche for its iconic monastery and Dingboche, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Trekkers explore the serene Chhukung village before hiking to Chhukung Ri for breathtaking vistas. Conquering the first pass, Kongma La (5,335m), brings the trek to Lobuche and the ultimate highlight: Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for unparalleled views of Mt. Everest.

From here, the trek descends to Dzongla and crosses the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m), leading to the tranquil Gokyo Lakes. A climb to Gokyo Ri (5,483m) rewards trekkers with magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The final pass, Renjo La (5,340m), unveils hidden valleys and routes near Tibet, offering cultural insights in Lunden and Thame. The descent continues back to Namche Bazaar and Lukla, where the trek concludes with a return flight to Kathmandu. After a well-deserved leisure day for rest or exploration, the adventure ends with a farewell escort to Tribhuvan International Airport. This trek combines majestic Himalayan landscapes, cultural encounters, and a sense of accomplishment for conquering three high passes.

If our Everest Three Passes Trek itinerary isn’t quite right for you, let us craft a custom plan that matches your unique preferences. Contact us today to design your perfect trek and start your unforgettable journey in Nepal.

Tour PlanExpand all

Our staff will escort you from Tribhuvan International Airport as you land in Kathmandu.

Accommodation: Overnight stays in hotel

A trip to UNESCO World Heritage site, Swyambhunath temple (monkey temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, Buddhanath stupa, and Pashupatinath temple.

Meals: breakfast includedAccommodation: overnight stay at hotel

Early morning flight to Lukla (2652m/ 8699ft) this short journey is dramatic in itself. This descends into Lukla renowned tenzing- Hillary airport, nestled at the Himalayas. The journey begins with a gentle trek to phakding (3 hrs.). Rest the night at the comfortable guest house and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Prepare for the next exciting sate of your trek.

Max Altitude: 2652m/ 8699ft

Continuing the journey from phaking, our path depends as we follow dudh khola koshi, guiding us through fragrant Himalayan pine and cedar forest. As we ascend we notice the vibrant beauty of the Namche Bazzar which reviles its history of greater bustling trade pot where Nepalese and Tibetan culture intervene. It is a sanctuary for acclimatization, where we spend a day adjusting to the thin mountain air, explore local market and delve into the Sherpa life.

Max Altitude: 3440m/11283ft

Ascending through thin air, scaling to the legendary syangboche airport for the panoramic views of Lhotse and Everest is the main theme of the day. Trekking to Everest view hotel is just breathtaking opening for trekkers.

Our journey begins on a gentle and straightforward path that gives a glimpse of Mount Everest. We cross the Dudh Koshi valley towards the Tengboche monastery, nestled at 3860m. This ascent might be challenging, but the breathtaking panoramic of Mount Ama Dablam will more than makeup for the effort. After a long and hectic day, we spend the day at a cozy guest house.

Max Altitude: 3860m/12660ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner are includedAccommodation: Guest House

Trek to Dingboche offers a different vibes instead of steep climbing or descents you will be trekking through the loss vibrant forest complete with a refreshing crossing over the Emja khola.
You will be treated with the delightful stroll to the charming village of phangboche, perched at 3900m which is completely soak with a panoramic view of mount Everest, stunning vista unfolding around every blend. Settle into a cozy guest house knowing conquer another leg of your epic Everest three pass trek journey.

Max Altitude: 4410m/14464ft Accommodation: Guest house

Trek to Chhukung is a day of diverse landscapes and laid back trekking on your own. The path is gentle up and down hills waving through the time to admire the scenario of traditional stone farms and fences dotting the landscapes.
As you pass the Imja khola you will definitely reach to Chhukung village, nestled at amidst towering peaks. It will be the resting place for you till the night pass where you can unwind and savor a well- deserve lunch enjoying the majestic Himalayas vista

Max Altitude: 4700m/15416 ft

Brace yourself for challenging yet spiritual ascend on day 9, as you attempt hiking to Chukung Ri. Above the Chukung village the view of khumbu village looks even more beautiful. Overnight rest at chukung Ri valley to cop up with the change in atmosphere.

Max Altitude: 5540m/18171ft Meals: Lunch and dinner are included.

Today, get ready to meet the true Himalayan gift. Since there are no any hotel, tea house, or shops in this rugged adventure, pack your own lunch and water for sustenance. As you conquer the kongma la pass, you will have two options: a challenging adventure over Nuptse glacier or route via Bibre and the Niyang khola tribe.
As we ascend the khumbu glacier unfolds with the stunning Buddhist prayers flags and spiritual significance of pass. Upon climbing on the far side, turn north and Descend toward lobuche. Overnight stay at the guest house.

Max Altitude: 5335m/17498 ft Accommodation: Guest house

The day starts with a short climbing through meadows, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of the khumbu glacier sprawled beneath you. The path leads to kalapathar, the best spot to witness the entire south face to mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks in all their glory.

Max Altitude: 5181m/16994ft

Crown jewels of the day are hike up to the kala pathhar. It’s the best possible view point to witness Mount Everest. Then trek back to the Gorekshep for hot breakfast and then descend to Dzongle. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included.Accommodation: Hotel

The trek begins with ascending to Cho La Pass and descending again to Thagna.

The journey will lead you to the Ngozumna glacier, ice giants up to 36 km and the whispering tales of Ancient Mountain. Finally we will arrive at the charming village of gokyo, Nestled beside the third lake with the majestic cho oyu mountain. Enjoy the postcard perfect vista and soak in there tranquility of the Himalayan vista. Overnight stays at the guest house.

Max Altitude: 4790m/15710 ft Accommodation: Guest House

Today’s crown jewel is climbing to Gokyo Ri. Witness the beautiful valley of Gokyo, the mighty Nrozyumpa glacier, and beautiful lines of Himalayan giants: Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Gvchung Kang perching into the sky. However, the thin air makes the journey even more challenging, so remember acclimatization is the key. Return to the guest house at noon for the overnight stay.

Max Altitude: 5483m/19083 ft Accommodation: Guest House

Today’s journey is up to the lunden via crossing rancho la pass. Descend into a secret valley near Tibet where we might meet the Tibetan traders and descending from the legendary Nangpa La pass, a historic route connecting Nepal and Tibet. Overnight stay, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Trek to thame is comprised with a amazing snow peaks and monastery. The picture perfect and rare life style of the monks lay people will amaze you. Cherish this moment, for it steals your Himalaya journey with a breathtaking memory to carry forever.

Max Altitude: 3800m/13464ft

Our trek continues, leaving the padding behind as we descend to our first resting place after heading towards Namche Bazzar. 

Max Altitude: 3440m/11283ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.Accommodation: Guest House

Our final farewells for the mountains as we reach lukla the end where you will catch your return flight to Kathmandu. 

Max Altitude: 2800m/9184ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.Accommodation: Guest House

30 min flight to Kathmandu from Lukla. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.Accommodation: Hotel

Stay at Kathmandu to rest and explore the uniqueness of the local people.

Tidy Himalaya will escort you to the airport on time; there will be plenty of time for you to shop.

Route Map
Everest Three Passes Trek
Cost Details
Includes

  • All ground transports in private vehicle including airport transfers

  • Four nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu

  • Kathmandu city tours including all entry fees, tour guide and private vehicle

  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek

  • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek; we provide private bathrooms with hot shower at Phakding, Namche and Lukla

  • Seasonal fruits during the trek

  • One highly experienced, helpful and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff

  • Round trip flight Kathmandu – Lukla and Lukla – Kathmandu including departure taxes

  • Duffle bag for the trekking

  • Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek

  • Trekking map and trip achievement certificate

  • First aid medical kit

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permits fee

  • TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)

  • Government taxes & office service charge

Excludes

  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'

  • Travel insurance

  • International airfare

  • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)

  • Cold drinks Inc. coke, water, Fanta etc.

  • Snacks and other personal expenses

  • Hot shower during the trek except Phakding, Namche and Lukla

  • Personal trekking equipments

  • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers

Essential Information

Difficulties of Everest Three Pass Trek

The trek isn’t for the faint of heart; trackers must walk at least four hours. Experts recommend seven hours of walking daily, demanding strong willpower and stamina. Be prepared for steep hills and passes that will test your ability and push you to the edge; altitude kicks in, adding to the exhaustion. The bottom line is that trekking to three-pass treks isn’t a walk in the park; it demands both physical and mental preparations, especially if you’re not experienced. If you are up for the adventure, be ready to endure the cold and harsh wind.

Permit for Everest Three-Pass Trek

A permit is mandatory to explore the majestic magic of mountains, especially the Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality permit. These permits can be easily obtained upon arrival in Kathmandu or at Lukla airport.

Travel Insurance

The trip to the Himalayas is not easy; travel insurance will back you up in case of any medical emergencies, like escorting you to health care in time of need through a helicopter. Experiencing altitude sickness is normal in higher altitudes, but some people require medical attention. Most travel insurance plans cover the following:

  • Passport loss

  • Travel Delay

  • Expenses on medical emergencies

  • Losses of baggage

Equipment Lists
First Aid Kits and Medications
  • Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, paracetamol)
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention)
  • Blister pads and band-aids
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Adhesive tape and gauze
  • Rehydration salts
  • Anti-diarrhea medication
  • Cold and flu tablets
  • Prescription medications (if any)
  • Hand sanitizer
General
  • Backpack (40-50 liters with rain cover)
  • Duffel bag (for porters, if applicable)
  • Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C to -20°C)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration bladder (2-3 liters capacity)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
  • Hat (sun protection) and warm beanie
  • Neck gaiter or buff
  • Power bank and charging cables
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Trek permits and travel documents
Upper Body
  • Moisture-wicking base layers (2-3)
  • Insulating fleece or down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket
  • Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (sun protection)
Lower Body
  • Trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
  • Thermal base layers (2 pairs)
  • Waterproof and windproof outer pants
Hands
  • Insulated gloves (waterproof)
  • Lightweight inner gloves
Feet
  • Trekking boots (waterproof and broken in)
  • Hiking socks (5-6 pairs)
  • Thermal socks (2-3 pairs for cold nights)
  • Camp shoes or sandals
Undergarments and Inner Wears
  • Moisture-wicking underwear (5-6 pairs)
  • Sports bras (for women, 2-3)
FAQs

The three passes in the Three Passes Trek are:

  • Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters/18,159 feet)
  • Cho La Pass (5,420 meters/17,782 feet)
  • Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters/17,585 feet)
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