Days

Everest Three Passes Trek

Name: Everest Three Passes Trek
Brand: Hiking In Himalaya
Price: 1475 USD
Availability: InStock

Duration

14 Days

Crossing a mountain pass like Thorong La during the Annapurna Circuit trek and Larkya La during the Manaslu Circuit trek is considered one of the most daring and challenging adventures in the Himalayas.

Now imagine crossing not one, not two, but three high mountain passes each above 5,000 meters in one trek. This is the Everest Three Passes trek.

In fact, the 3 passes trek is also the most demanding Everest Base Camp trek itinerary. You will not only reach the lap of the tallest mountain on Earth but also explore the hidden corners and many natural wonders of the Everest region.

*The Everest region is known as the SoluKhumbu region in Nepal. The upper part is known as the Khumbu, and the foothills are referred to as the Solu.

The Everest Three Passes trek is one of Nepal's most advanced trekking programs. It explores the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and pristine villages like Thame, Lungdeng, and Chhukung.

The unpredictable weather, steep climbs, and high altitude make the 3 passes trek challenging. But the incredible trek experience, the unique culture of the Sherpas, and the surreal views of some of the world's highest mountains make every challenge worth it.

Trekkers who are seeking the ultimate mountain experience and wish to explore the untouched parts of the Everest region will love the Everest Three Passes trek 14 days.

Highlights

A perfect trek in the Himalayas to have the ultimate mountain experience
Trek to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and pristine villages like Thame and Lungdeng
Crossing three high mountain passes - Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La
Witness breathtaking mountain vistas, gorgeous sunrises, and diverse landscapes
Explore beautiful Sherpa villages, have a glimpse of their lifestyle, and visit ancient monasteries on the way
Hike through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and glacier moraines
Cross many hanging suspension bridges on the way

What are the three mountain passes you will cross during this trek?

Renjo La Pass (5,340 m/17,519 ft)
Cho La Pass (5,420 m/17,782 ft)
Kongma La Pass (5,535 m/18,159 ft)

What is it like doing the Everest Three Passes trek 14 days?

The Everest Three Passes trek is not your standard trek in Nepal. By completing this trek, you can call yourself a pro trekker.

After doing the Everest Three Passes trek, if you are interested in going higher and challenging yourself further, you can start peak climbing in Nepal.

The 3 passes trek begins with the famous Lukla flight that takes you northeast of Kathmandu into the mountains. You will start hiking from here and ascend to Namche Bazaar, spending a night in Phakding village enroute.

After your acclimatization in Namche Bazaar, you will leave the bustling EBC trail and trek to Thame village, which will lead you to your first pass- Renjo La.

Following our Everest Three Passes trek itinerary, you will do the trek in a clockwise direction. It means you will first cross Renjo La, then Cho La, and at last Kongma La.

Crossing the passes in a clockwise direction is challenging and best for experienced trekkers. However, trekkers who do not have much high altitude experience should stick to the anti-clockwise 3 passes itinerary.

Among the three passes, Kongma La is considered the most difficult one because of its length. Likewise, while crossing Cho La, you will traverse a glacier and may use microspikes. Renjo La is relatively easier to cross.

However, depending on the unpredictable weather, trail conditions, and fitness of the trekker, each pass difficulty may vary for every trekker. Therefore, you need to have a flexible mindset and be well-prepared.

Why do the Everest Three Passes trek?

Ultimate adventure and challenge: The Everest Three Passes trek route includes forested hills, hanging suspension bridges, steep climbs, alpine meadows, glacier moraines, etc.
Phenomenal mountain vistas: During the trek, you will see several stunning Himalayan mountains such as Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Pumori, etc.
Close interactions with Sherpas: The night stops in different villages, and while passing by settlements, you will get many opportunities to interact with Sherpas and other local communities.
Breathtaking sunrises and panoramas: You will hike to many viewpoints to witness beautiful sunrises and spectacular scenery. Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar are the two famous viewpoints. Likewise, the views are also insane from all three high passes.
Gokyo Lakes: Gokyo Lakes are known for their incredible beauty and remote locations. There are six main Gokyo Lakes, and all of them are exceptionally gorgeous. Trekking to these lakes is adventurous, and the view you get to behold is unbeatable.
Ancient monasteries: You will visit Thame monastery, Tengboche monastery, and Pangboche monastery during the Everest Three Passes trek.
Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar: Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar are two famous trekking destinations. You will reach both these places on this trek.

Is the Everest Three Passes trek suitable for you?

While booking the Everest Three Passes trek, make sure to assess your past trekking experiences and fitness. This trek will push your limits way beyond what you can imagine. It is a tough, serious trek and shouldn't be taken lightly.

How to prepare for the 3 high passes trek in Nepal?

Do a few moderate treks and grow your trekking skills, strength, and high altitude knowledge.
Exercise for 4 to 6 weeks actively before starting the 3 high passes trek. You need to be in good shape when leaving for the trek.
Book the Everest Three Passes trek with a reputable and reliable Nepali trekking company like us. Ensure the itinerary suits your fitness, time, and requirements.
Check what trekking clothes and gear you have and their condition. Finalize what gear you will buy and if you want to rent any.
Get travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation that is okay for trekking in Nepal. For the Everest Three Passes trek, your travel insurance should cover rescue up to 5,500 meters.

Why do the Everest Three Passes trek with the Hiking in Himalaya team?

Best Everest Three Passes trek cost and service
A reliable, expert team of guides and porters
A reliable management team to help you obtain permits and arrange logistics
Flexible itinerary that you can customize as per your interests
Private and fixed group departures
Solo trekkers are welcome
24/7 support
Complimentary airport transfers as per the itinerary
Free duffel bag to use during the trek
Assistance in renting trekking gear
Everest Three Passes trek certificate and our Company's cap/t-shirt gift

Short Itinerary

Day 01

Early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla airport and trek to Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft)

Max. Altitude

2,846m

Day 02

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Max. Altitude

3,440m

Day 03

Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar: hike to Hotel Everest View or Khumjung Monastery and Sir Edmund Hillary School

Max. Altitude

3,790m

Day 04

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame

Max. Altitude

3,800m

Day 05

Trek from Thame to Lungdeng

Max. Altitude

4,380m

Day 06

Trek from Lungdeng to Gokyo village (4,750 m/15,584 ft) via Renjo La pass

Max. Altitude

5,340m

Day 07

Hike to Gokyo Ri early in the morning and descend to Thagnak (4,690 m/15,387 ft)

Max. Altitude

5,357m

Day 08

Trek from Thagnak to Lobuche village (4,940 m/16,210 ft), crossing Cho La pass

Max. Altitude

5,420m

Day 09

Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep (5,164 m/16,942 ft) and back to Gorak Shep for a night's stay

Max. Altitude

5,364m

Day 10

Morning hike to Kala Patthar and descend to Lobuche village (4,940 m/16,210 ft)

Max. Altitude

5,545m

Day 11

Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730 m/15,518 ft) via Kongma La

Max. Altitude

5,535m

Day 12

Trek from Chhukung to Namche Bazaar

Max. Altitude

3,440m

Day 13

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Max. Altitude

2,846m

Day 14

Morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla airport & hotel drop

Max. Altitude

1,400m

Altitude Chart

Everest Three Passes Trek Detailed Itinerary

01Day

Early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla airport and trek to Phakding (2,610 m/8,563 ft)

The 3 passes trek starts with a short and panoramic flight to Lukla Airport. The flight will be around 30 to 35 minutes long. Upon landing in Lukla, you will begin hiking to Phakding village.

It is situated around 200 meters below. The trail descends through rhododendron forests. You will cross hanging suspension bridges on the way and pass by lovely villages.

Lukla flight updates:

In spring and autumn, Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport. It takes around 4 to 5 hours to drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Airport.
During the summer and monsoon seasons, as well as winter, Lukla flights are operated from Kathmandu Airport.

Max Altitude: 2,846m / 9,337ftDuration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trekDistance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

02Day

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

The trail ascends from Phakding to Namche Bazaar via lush forested hills. You will hike to Monjo, where the permits are registered and the Sagarmatha National Park officially begins.

Following the uphill route, you will walk through a few villages. On the way, cross a handful of suspension bridges. The final ascent to Namche Bazaar is a steep climb.

Max Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286ftDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

03Day

Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar: hike to Hotel Everest View or Khumjung Monastery and Sir Edmund Hillary School

A rest day in Namche Bazaar lowers the risk of altitude sickness further on the way. In the morning, you will go on a hike to Hotel Everest View. During the hike, you can see stunning views of Mt. Thamserku and Kongde Ri along with Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

Max Altitude: 3,790m / 12,434ftDuration: 4-5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

04Day

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will trek to Thame. The trail is different and less crowded than the EBC trail. You will trek through forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak.

On the way, pass by settlements such as Phurte, Thamo, and Samde. Likewise, you can see beautiful mountain views of Thamserku, Lumding Himal, Kongde Ri, etc.

Max Altitude: 3,800m / 12,467ftDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 6.8 km/4.2 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

05Day

Trek from Thame to Lungdeng

From Thame, you will walk uphill to Thame Teng. The trail then ascends to Marlung village. Thame and Marlung are both less-visited Sherpa villages in the Khumbu region. Further, you will trek following a rugged, steep trail to reach Lungdeng.

Max Altitude: 4,380m / 14,370ftDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 8.2 km/5 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

06Day

Trek from Lungdeng to Gokyo village (4,750 m/15,584 ft) via Renjo La pass

On this day, you will cross the first pass- Renjo La. From Lungdeng, the trail goes past frozen ponds and follows a steep uphill route. Gradually, you will ascend to the top of the Renjo La Pass.

Reaching the top of the pass is challenging, but it offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, etc. After enjoying the views, descend from the pass and hike to Gokyo village.

Max Altitude: 5,340m / 17,519ftDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 11 km/6.8 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

07Day

Hike to Gokyo Ri early in the morning and descend to Thagnak (4,690 m/15,387 ft)

The morning is spent hiking to Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint. The trail will be steep and rocky. Gokyo Ri offers one of the best views of Mt. Everest. You can see many other mountains from here. After that, you will descend to Thagnak to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,357m / 17,575ftDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 4 km/2.4 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

08Day

Trek from Thagnak to Lobuche village (4,940 m/16,210 ft), crossing Cho La pass

Today, you will cross the second pass- Cho La. Cho La is the most demanding one among all three. You will start ascending to the top of the pass before the sun rises.

The top of the pass will offer outstanding mountain views, especially of Mt. Cholatse, Cholatse Glacier, Lobuche Peak, and Mt. Ama Dablam. Enjoy the view and descend to Lobuche village to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,420m / 17,782ftDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 15 km/9.3 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

09Day

Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep (5,164 m/16,942 ft) and back to Gorak Shep for a night's stay

You will reach Everest Base Camp on this day. From Lobuche, the trail first ascends to Gorak Shep. You will walk on rocky/rugged tracks. Leaving heavy luggage in Gorak Shep, you will hike to the base camp of Mt. Everest. Enjoy the view and later return to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,364m / 17,598ftDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 15 km/9.32 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

10Day

Morning hike to Kala Patthar and descend to Lobuche village (4,940 m/16,210 ft)

Wake up early and go on a short hike to Kala Patthar to see a beautiful sunrise and a wonderful view of Mt. Everest. After the hike, return to Gorak Shep and retrace the same trail back to Lobuche village.

Max Altitude: 5,545m / 18,192ftDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 7 km/4.3 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

11Day

Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730 m/15,518 ft) via Kongma La

It is time to cross the last pass- Kongma La. From Lobuche, you will head to Chhukung Valley, crossing the Kongma La Pass.

It will be a challenging, steep climb to the top of the pass, but the mesmerizing view will pay for the challenges. After enjoying the view, descend from the pass to Chhukung village.

Max Altitude: 5,535m / 18,159ftDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 10.6 km/6.5 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

12Day

Trek from Chhukung to Namche Bazaar

You can hike to Chhukung Ri early in the morning to see a spectacular sunrise and heavenly mountain vista. Then, begin the trek to Namche Bazaar.

The trail descends via Dingboche and Pangboche villages. You will then hike to Tengboche and follow a downhill trail to Phungi Thenga. From here, you will hike to Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286ftDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 26.5 km/16.4 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

13Day

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will walk through steep hills and pass by rhododendron forests and small villages. From Phakding, the trail ascends to Lukla.

Max Altitude: 2,846m / 9,337ftDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 13.6 km/8.4 miles

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge

14Day

Morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla airport & hotel drop

Fly back to Kathmandu, enjoying one last glimpse of the Himalayan mountains. Your guide will drop you at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ftDuration: 35 minutes flight

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Still Confuse?

No worries. Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Customize Trip

Cost Details

Includes

Pick-up and drop-off at Tribhuvan International Airport as per the itinerary
Two Lukla flights
All meals during the trek (lunch /dinner/breakfast ) with a cup of tea
Necessary permits
An experienced, English-speaking, licensed trekking guide
A duffel bag to put your belongings in
First aid medical kit
Pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation at high altitudes
Certificate of achievement after the trek
Cap and T-shirt

Excludes

Porter
International flights
Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
Travel and rescue insurance
Trek gear and personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, hot showers, and charging
Private jeep
Tips for guide/porter
Souvenir

Essential Information

Everest Three Passes trek difficulty

Everest Three Passes trek difficulty is strenuous as per Himalayan standards. It means it is one of the most challenging treks.

Trekkers' past experience and fitness play a huge role when it comes to the 3 passes trek difficulty. Nevertheless, it is a very demanding venture.

You can expect 6 hours of hiking each day on this trek. The days when you cross the passes may get 8 to 9 hours long.

Likewise, high altitude, steep, rocky terrain, and bare minimum services add more challenge to the trek.

Everest Three Passes trek distance

The Everest Three Passes trek distance is approximately 150 kilometers.

High altitude guidelines that will help you avoid altitude sickness

You will go above 5,000 meters at least six times on this trek and spend many days above 3,500 meters. Therefore, the risk of altitude sickness is very high on this trek.

Previous high altitude experience is an important requirement for the Everest Three Passes trek. It will help you acclimatize quickly. Follow the tips below to prevent altitude sickness during the trek:

Ascend slowly
Maintain your pace
Listen to your body
Drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily
Avoid alcohol and smoking until you cross all three passes
Eat carbohydrate-rich meals daily
Get ample rest
Be aware of symptoms like vomiting, headache, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, dizziness, breathlessness, etc

Everest Three Passes trek in different seasons, and the best time

March, April, May, early June, late September, October, and November are the best times to do the Everest Three Passes trekking. The pass conditions, weather, and climate are favorable in these months.

From June to mid-September, rainfall ruins the trails at lower altitudes. Likewise, Lukla flight cancellations and delays are also high. Mountain views may not be clear every day.

December to February is the coldest time of the year in the Everest region. Extreme cold and strong winds make crossing the pass more challenging, but for adventure seekers, it could be an excellent opportunity.

*Note that in winter, you may have to use microspikes to cross the passes if the pass is covered with snow or ice.

Accommodation on the Everest Three Passes trek route

You will stay overnight in lodges during the Everest Three Passes trek. The room will be provided on a twin-sharing basis. Single rooms are available at an additional price and may not be available in all villages.

You will share the washrooms with fellow trekkers. Western-style toilets are found in many places, but you may have to use squat toilets in some villages.

Food

Our Everest Three Passes trek package includes three meals a day for trekkers. They can purchase additional food and drinks by paying themselves. The food option is decent.

You can choose whatever you want to eat from the menu. Some common dishes that trekkers mostly eat are thukpa, dal bhat, fried rice, momo, noodles, pasta, boiled potatoes, stew, soups, porridge, pancake, etc.

Likewise, there will be no issue with clean drinking water. You will also find many types of tea, coffee, and soft drinks in villages.

Transporation

The Everest Three Passes trek includes two Lukla flights. Our team will escort you to the airport and also drop you at your hotel after returning from the trek.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must for the Everest Three Passes trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation (up to 5,500 meters) and medical bills.

We request our trekkers to double-check the insurance policy and ensure that it is effective for adventure trekking in Nepal. Also, bring the document with you.

Communication and charging during the Three Passes trek

Mobile network is not available in many parts of the Everest Three Passes trek route. WiFi and charging phones cost a few extra bucks. WiFi is also not reliable.

Everest Three Passes trek packing

You will need the following things for the Everest Three Passes trek:

Clothing:

Breathable underwear, base layer (trekking t-shirts and pants), and thermal layer
Long-sleeved hiking shirt and hiking shorts or leggings
Fleece jumpers
Waterproof/rainproof jacket and pant
Down jacket
Liner socks, fuzzy socks, liner gloves (touch screen compatible), thermal gloves, beanies (2), scarves
Neck gaiter and sun hat

Trekking gear:

Trekking boots
Normal shoes or slippers to wear in the lodge
Trekking poles
Daypack
UV Sunglasses
Duffel bag
Water bottle
Water purifying tablets

Miscellaneous:

First aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Toiletries, including wet wipes, toilet paper, hand wash, shampoo, etc
SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, comb, pocket mirror
Pocket torch and knife (optional)
Snacks
Camera, spare batteries, power bank, Universal adapter
Journal and pen (optional)
Ziplock bag to store used clothes and food
Dry towel

Documents:

Passport size photos
Passport (at least six months of validity)
Nepali tourist visa
Credit/debit card
Cash
Travel insurance document
Emergency contact and address

Everest Three Passes Trek FAQs

Q1. How long is the Everest Three Passes trek?

It takes around 14 days to complete the Everest Three Passes trek, not including your arrival and departure from Kathmandu.

Q2. How much does the Everest Three Passes trek cost?

The Everest Three Passes trek cost may vary depending on your itinerary. In general, this trek costs around USD 1,350 to USD 2,500+ per person.

Q3. Is trekking with a guide necessary for the 3 Passes trek?

The Three Passes trek is a very advanced trek. Crossing the three passes - Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La without the guidance of a professional guide is quite risky. We do not recommend doing the 3 Passes trek without a guide.

Q4. What are the alternatives to domestic Lukla flights?

The most popular alternative to Lukla flights is helicopter flights. Another option is driving from Kathmandu to Phaplu or Jiri to start the trek. However, this option can add anywhere from 5 to 7 days to your itinerary.

Q5. Can I combine helicopter flights between Kathmandu and Lukla? How much will it cost?

Yes, you can upgrade to a helicopter flight between Kathmandu and Lukla. It will cost you USD 650 to USD 750 per person.

Q6. Is it possible to skip one of the passes if I am too tired?

You can skip one pass if you are too tired to cross all three passes. However, it will make a change to the itinerary and package price.

Q7. How difficult is the Everest Three Passes trek?

The Everest Three Passes trek is very demanding. It is one of the toughest treks in Nepal. On this trek, you have to cross three high mountain passes above 5,000 meters.

Q8. Is the Everest Three Passes trek suitable for beginner trekkers?

The Everest Three Passes trek is not a suitable trek for beginner trekkers. Anyone planning to do this trek must have knowledge about walking on Himalayan terrain and previous high-altitude experience.

Q9. What is the success rate for trekkers on the Three Passes trek?

The success of the Three Passes trek highly depends on your preparation and previous experience. We have a 100% success rate for this trek.

Q10. What is the best time of year to do the Everest Three Passes trek?

The best time of the year to do the Everest Three Passes trek is in the spring and autumn seasons. These seasons have stable weather and good pass conditions.

Q11. What are the chances of a Lukla flight delay or cancellation?

In spring and autumn, the chances of the Lukla flight getting canceled are very low, but there can be delays on some days. However, it is very unlikely to affect your trek schedule.

Q12. What type of sleeping bag is recommended for the Everest Three Passes trek, and can you rent it and other gear in Kathmandu?

You need a sleeping bag that is good for -10°C. Yes, you can rent it in Thamel.

Q13. How is the WiFi and charging service along the Everest Three Passes trek route?

WiFi and charging services are available in most villages at an additional cost. The network may not be strong, though. For the 3-pass trek, we recommend a solar power bank.

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