Everest Three passes Trek - 21 Days

(5.0)10 reviews
Know before you go
  • Duration 21 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Season March to May and Oct to Mid-Dec
  • Trip Area Everest Region
  • Maximum Altitude 5,545m.|18,192ft.

Highlights

  • A thrilling flight from Kathmandu will take you to the starting point of the trek Lukla
  • Pass by mountain villages, where you will get to see the lifestyle of the locals
  • Cross three challenging passes- Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La
  • Explore Everest Base Camp, the base of Mt. Everest
  • Witness gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar
  • Spend a night in picturesque Gokyo village and explore stunning Gokyo Lakes
  • Get to see breath-taking views of the Himalayan mountains and sceneries, unlike any other place

Everest Three High Passes Trek is the ultimate trek in the Everest region that explores the iconic Namche Bazaar, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri. Leaving the bustle of city life, you'll embark on 21 days remote trek in the Himalayas.

Everest 3 Passes Trek Nepal 2024|2025

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is the most adventurous trek in the Everest region. The trek leads above three 5,000-meter-high passes, i.e. Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,340 m). Crossing these three passes is pretty challenging and demands strong willpower. During the 3 Passes Trek Nepal, you will get to see the lifestyle of the Sherpas and other locals along the way. Likewise, the trail offers breathtaking views of the numerous Himalayan mountains and surreal sceneries. 

Following our 3 Passes Trek itinerary, you will walk through picturesque mountain villages and lush forests of rhododendrons. The trail crosses several thrilling suspension bridges and streams. You will trek through villages like Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Chhukung, and Lobuche before reaching the base of the world's highest mountain, Everest Base Camp (5,364m), and then ascend to Kala Patthar (5,545 m).

Walking alongside green foothills, and enjoying the soothing environment of the Everest region, you trek to Gokyo Valley. This part of the trail presents you with breathtaking views of the largest glacier in Nepal, the Nogzumpa Glacier. Likewise, you explore the holy Gokyo Lakes (4,700 m to 5,000 m) and hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m). 

While passing through the beautiful villages, you learn a lot about the locals and their unique lifestyle. Living in the mountains is not easy but also not complicated. Three high passes trek gives you ample opportunities to unwind and relax. On the way, you'll be visiting ancient monasteries like Tengboche Monastery (3,860 m), Khumjung Monastery (3,790 m), etc. 

Views during the trek

Likewise, the Everest High Passes Trek leads to the stunning Gokyo Valley, where you will explore the lovely Gokyo village and enjoy the serenity of Gokyo Lakes. Snow-clustered mountains like Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Mt. Makalu (8,481 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,188 m), and many others will be your constant companions. 

The time you will spend and the memories you make during the Everest Three High Passes Trekking will be your greatest treasure. To know more about the three passes trek cost or any other information regarding the Everest Three Passes Trek package, feel free to get in touch with us anytime. 

What makes Nepal Nirvana Trails unique?

Our numerous years of expertise in organizing treks in the Himalayas and strong team support make us a reliable trekking partner. We are known for our service quality and the best trekking price in the market. We have a very high satisfaction rate among our guests. 

We make sure even trips like 3 passes trekking unfold smoothly. From the booking process to your departure from Kathmandu, we'll be there for you every single second. You do not have to worry about anything while traveling with us. 

The booking is open for Everest Three High Passes Trek 2024|2025. We have designed our Everest Three High Passes Trek 21 Days adding ample rest days as well. So, very low risk of altitude sickness. 

If you like Three Passes Trek, then you will love our Upper Mustang Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit via Tsum Valley Trek, and Upper Dolpo Trek packages.

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

Expand AllCollapse All

Nepal Nirvana representative will be waiting for you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. We will have dinner with the team in the evening.

  • Hotel
  • 1400m.| 4593ft.

Today, we will check your equipment required for the treks and suggest you buy/ rent or give it to you if we have them. You can spend the day exploring the Kathmandu Valley. If you want we can provide you with the Kathmandu sightseeing with the tour guide (it costs extra).

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1400m.| 4593ft.

We will have an exhilarating flight to Lukla. Sometimes flights are scheduled from Manthali, Ramechhap Airport, instead of TIA.
After having our breakfast, we will commence our trek heading toward Phakding. On the way to Phakding, we will see the stone walls, prayer wheels, painted mani stones, etc. You can view the mesmerizing view of Kusum Kanguru (6367m.|20889ft.) from Thado Koshi gaon, where we will have our lunch. We will walk for a while from there to get to Phakding.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2610m.| 8562ft.

Phakding is the first viewpoint of Kongde Ri. After having breakfast, we will walk towards Namche Bazaar, leaving Phakding behind. We will cross five suspension bridges before reaching Namche. Walking following the pathway to Namche, we will reach Monjo village. We will get to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. We will have our lunch and rest for a while in Jorsalle. Then, trekking ahead, we will see the first view of Mt. Everest from Top Danda. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3440m.| 11286ft.

Namche Bazaar is a trading village with a bank, ATM, internet cafes, and souvenir shops. We have options for spending the day, whether hiking to Khumjung Gompa, the Everest View Hotel, or Khunde village, Sherpa settlements. From the Everest View Hotel, you can view the panoramic view of Mt. Everest(8848.86m.|29031ft.), Khumbi Yul Lha(5761m.|18900ft.), Ama Dablam(6812m.|22349ft.), and many more. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3440m.| 11286ft.

We will leave Namche Bazaar after having breakfast.  We will trek toward Tengboche, capturing a glimpse of Ama Dablam, Taboche, Lhotse Shar, Kantenga, and Thamserku. Following the trail, we will reach Phunke Tenga, where we will have lunch. It takes a couple of hours to get to Tengboche. We will stay overnight in Tengboche.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3860m.| 12664ft.

You can partake in a praying ceremony in the Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the region. We begin our hike to Dingboche, following the route of Deboche, Pangboche, Somare, and Orsho. We will cross several suspension bridges over Imja Khola. Overnight at Dingboche.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4410m.| 14468ft.

Dingboche to Chukung is a short hike. We are at a high-level altitude, so even walking less is difficult due to low oxygen. Chukung is on the Island Peak trek trail. We will stay overnight at Chukung.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4730m.| 15518ft.

Our body needs to acclimate to the changing altitudes. Today we will hike up to Chukung Ri (5550m.|18208ft.). Chukung Ri offers a stunning view of Lhotse, Makalu and Baruntse. Overnight stay at Chukung.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4730m.| 15518ft.

Today will be a bit harder than other days. We will begin our hike from Chukung to Lobuche crossing Kongma La Pass (5535m.|18159ft.). We will walk through the steep hills, reaching the high camps of Pokalde(5806m.|19048ft.) and blue lakes. Then we get to the Kongma La Pass. From Kongma La pass, one can view enchanting mountain views. Then we will descend to Lobuche crossing the Khumbu Glacier. Overnight at Lobuche.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4910m.| 16108ft.

After breakfast at Lobuche, we walk through the Everest Base Camp (5364m.| 17598ft.) trail to reach Gorakshep. The way to Everest Base Camp is through the moraines and rocky path. Today is a challenging day, but it's worth reaching the base camp of the world's highest mountain. After having lunch at Gorakshep, we head toward Everest Base Camp. After spending some time at base camp, we will return to Gorakshep.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5140m.| 16863ft.

From Gorakshep, we will hike up to Kalapathar, the best viewpoint of Mt. Everest for the sunrise. The view from Kalapatthar includes Mt. Everest (8,848.86m.|29031ft.), Lingtren (6,749m.|22142ft.), Khumbutse (6,636m.|21771ft.), and Changtse (7,550m.|24770ft.), Nuptse (7861m.|), etc. We will retrace the path to Lobuche after breakfast at Gorakshep. From Lobuche, we will descend to Dzongla viewing the north face of Mt. Cholatshe(6335m.|20784ft.).

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4830m.| 15846ft.

The trek is a bit hard today as we cross the Chola pass(5420m.|17782ft.), one of the three high passes of the Everest region. We begin ascending through the steep, slippery trails. The snow-covered glacier leads us to the Chola Pass. After getting to the top, we will descend through a slippery path with the possibility of rocks falling to Thangnak.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4700m.| 15419ft.

We will have breakfast and start the hike to Gokyo, following the trail of the Biggest glacier, Ngozumba Glacier. The beautiful Himalayas are paradise. We will stay overnight at Gokyo.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4790m.| 15715ft.

After crossing the two high passes, trekking for our body is exhausting. We will stay in Gokyo for one more day. Today, we will hike to the Gokyo Ri and explore the Gokyo valley. The Gokyo Ri offers a stunning view of Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and many more mountains. Overnight at Gokyo.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4790m.| 15715ft.

Today, we will cross the last highest pass, Renjo La Pass (5360m.| 17585ft.). Getting to the top is the last challenge of this trek. From the Renjo La Pass, one can view Everest and Rolwaling Himalayan range, Makalu, etc. We will descend slowly through the rocky, slippery pathway. Overnight at Marulung.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4210m.| 13812ft.

After breakfast, we trek down to Namche Bazaar. We will reach Namche Bazaar by crossing several suspension bridges and passing through the juniper forests and Sherpa villages like Taranga, Thame, Phurte, and Gongla. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3440m.| 11286ft.

Retracing the path through the Jorsalle, Monjo, Phakding, Nurning, and many other villages, passing by several mani walls and chortens, we will reach Lukla.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2840m.| 9317ft.

Today is the last at the hills. We will take a morning flight to Kathmandu, leaving behind the mountains and taking the memories of days on the trek.

  • Breakfast
  • 1400m.| 4593ft.

It's a reserve day. In case, we cannot get back to Kathmandu due to flight cancellations, weather reasons, etc.
If we are back in Kathmandu, it is a free day to rest or stroll around the streets of Kathmandu Valley.

  • Farewell Dinner
  • 1400m.| 4593ft.

We will drop you at the airport or assist you in your further planning of the trek in Nepal.

    Want to customize your trip? Share your holiday plans. Our travel experts create an awesome trip for a lifetime experience holiday.

    Route Map

    Everest Three passes Trek - 21 Days map

    What's Included

    • Airport transfer services arrival/departure and local flight schedule
    • 2-night Hotel in Kathmandu
    • Accommodations during the treks
    • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) with a cup of tea or coffee
    • Experienced English-speaking government-Licensed trekking guide and 1 porter between two trekkers (No porter for solo trekkers)
    • Trekking Guide and porter salary, food, equipment, and insurance
    • All applicable National park, and Local permits
    • Flight tickets from Kathmandu/Manthali - Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu/Manthali
    • First aid kit with basic medications
    • Water purification tablet
    • Farewell Dinner in a fine Restaurant
    • Souvenir: Nepal Nirvana Trails T-shirt and Trekking map
    • Official expenses and government tax/VAT.

    What's Excluded

    • International flight tickets
    • Nepal entry visa
    • Lunch, Dinner (except Farewell Dinner), and Extra Night Accommodation in Kathmandu
    • Travel and health Insurance which cover emergency Rescues and evacuations
    • Weight above 15 kg and extra porter is not included in package and flight.
    • During the trekking time, personal expenses, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, bottled water, hot shower, WI-FI, battery charging, etc.
    • Tips for treks guide, and porters (it is appreciated)

    Upcoming Departures

        
    Start DateMondayApril 22, 2024End DateSundayMay 12, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300
    Start DateTuesdayApril 23, 2024End DateMondayMay 13, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300
    Start DateWednesdayApril 24, 2024End DateTuesdayMay 14, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300
    Start DateFridayApril 26, 2024End DateThursdayMay 16, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300
    Start DateSaturdayApril 27, 2024End DateFridayMay 17, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300
    Start DateMondayApril 29, 2024End DateSundayMay 19, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300
    Start DateTuesdayApril 30, 2024End DateMondayMay 20, 2024PriceAvailableUS $1300

    Useful Info

    Everest 3 Passes Trek difficulty

    Three passes trek is for serious challenge lovers. This trek is no joke and demands strong physical fitness. The trail is steep and rough. Crossing three 5,000 meters high passes is very difficult in the Himalayas. Your body and mind both will be challenged. You have to walk 6 to 7 hours a day on average which can extend to 9 hours of the walk when crossing the passes. 

    So, if you wish to do the three high passes trek, you have to be well prepared. Prior trekking experience is needed to join this trek. We recommend keeping at least 4 to 6 weeks on hand to prepare for the trek. 

    Altitude Sickness

    If you allow your body to adjust to the elevation from the very first day of the trek, the risk of altitude sickness will get quite low in the upper parts of the trail. Walk slowly and choose the best available food to get all the nutrients. We have ample rest days in our itinerary, so you get enough chances to acclimatize. 

    If anyone from the group sees symptoms of altitude sickness, our trek leader will give first aid and take further measures as needed. In the worst case, we’ll air evacuate the patient to a hospital in Kathmandu. Drink a lot of water daily to stay hydrated. 

    Everest  3 Passes Trek route

    Three passes trek explore the Khumbu region. So, we take the famous Lukla flight from Kathmandu to reach our starting point of the trek. From here, follow the usual trail up to Dingboche village. This part of the trail goes through lush rhododendron forests and beautiful Sherpa villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche. 

    From Dingboche, we turn to Chukkung and cross Kongma La pass before descending to Lobuche village. In the next two days, we ascend Everest Base Camp and hike to Kala Patthar. The trail then crosses Cho La Pass via Dzongla and leads us to Gokyo Valley. 

    We explore the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri. Crossing the last pass, Renjo La, we descend to Marlung and trek to Thame. From here, we pass by Namche Bazaar and steeply descend through dense forests, crossing numerous suspension bridges, once again to Phakding village. Our last stop is Lukla, around a four-hour walk from Phakding and the 3 passes trek ends.

    Last Minute Booking for 3 Passes Trekking

    To book Everest 3 Passes Trek, we require 10% of the total 3 Passes Trek package cost. You can book the trip directly through our site. If you want tailor-made the 3 Passes Trek itinerary, talk to one of our trekking experts for more information. Make sure to thoroughly go through our terms & conditions before booking the trip. For last-minute bookings (even within 48 hrs), we will see if the arrangement is possible or not and update you as per that. 

    For last-minute booking, Contact us at +977 9841380469 or +977 9843987606 (WhatsApp/Viber) for a quick response. 

    What permits do I need for the Three high passes trek?

    To do the three passes trekking in the Everest region, you have to obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. Both of the permits are given by the Nepal Tourism Board or in Monjo village. Our trekking package covers all the necessary permit costs. We also obtain the permits on behalf of our guests, so you do not have to go through all the hassle. 

    Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit costs: NPR 2000 per person

    Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit costs: NPR 3000 per person

    The best time to trek to three passes in the Everest region

    To cross Everest's three high passes, the weather must be stable. March to April (spring) and October to November (autumn) are the best times for  Everest three high passes trekking. The things that make trekking in the Khumbu region in spring and autumn furthermore captivating are the blooming rhododendrons, seasonal vegetation, clear mountain views, and the essence of festivity in the air.

    The temperature is just perfect, ranging from 18C to 5C. The climate is moderate, best for walking. Likewise, many people from all around the world travel to Nepal in these two seasons. So, every trail is bustling with the laughter of tourists.

    Accommodation 

    We stay overnight in the lodges during the trek. The lodge has many facilities like a hot shower, wifi, charging, etc in the villages at lower elevations. However, you may have to pay a few extra bucks to get the service. The rooms are twins shared with a common washroom. You'll not find anything fancy in the rooms. They are usually small in size with a bed and a table. 

    After a long trek day, these rooms are enough to keep you warm, and the bed is comfortable. The dining area is cozy, but some places much comfort better than the expectations, and you can spend time mingling there. We recommend carrying a sleeping bag with you for this trek. 

    Food

    We offer three meals a day on the trek. All the meals are served as per the menu of the lodge. In the Khumbu region, the trails are quite developed in terms of the food menu. You'll even get pizza and biryani in some villages. Over the years, we have noticed the best meal option is typical Nepali dal bhat while trekking because it's freshly cooked and rich in carbohydrates & other nutrients, which is necessary to give you the energy needed to walk daily.

    Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is mandatory to join Everest 3 passes because of all the lingering risks. It's a strenuous journey with lots of hurdles. We need emergency air evacuation (up to 5,500 meters) and medical bills in the travel insurance.

    Travel Tips (electricity, internet, ATM, luggage, tipping, personal expenses)

    • Electricity is available in all the villages with occasional shortages because of weather or technical issues. Locals also rely on solar power. All the lodges have charging stations that let you charge cell phones and other devices in exchange for a few bucks. 
    • The last ATM is in Namche Bazaar. You may need some extra cash to use during the trek. Only Nepali currency is accepted in most places.
    • Paid wifi service is available in villages. Also, carry a Nepali sim to use cellular data while on the trail. The network is decent in most places but may not be there at all in isolated areas. 
    • The weight limit for each trekker is 10 kgs (for a duffel bag) and 5 kgs for a backpack. 
    • Tips are not covered in the package cost, so do have some extra budget for it. 
    • Do not trek in new trekking boots. It'll not be comfortable, and you may get blisters.

    FAQs

    • Overall, the Everest three high passes trekking route is 111.9 miles.

    • The 3 Passes Trek Nepal is a challenging trek. This trek is appropriate for experienced trekkers. The trails involve a steep glacial walk, where we will be using fixed ropes at some points. Likewise, the region gets very remote compared to the classic EBC Trek, which can get daunting to new trekkers.

    • The Khumbu region has three high passes each 5000 meters above that adventure enthusiasts cross during the Everest three high passes trek. The 3 passes are called Kongma La (5,550 m/18,209 ft), Cho La (5,420 m/17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,360 m/17,560 ft).

    • Yes, you will need travel insurance for 3 high passes because of the region's remoteness and high altitude. Your travel insurance should cover medical bills and emergency evacuation (up to 5’500 meters). The reason behind suggesting you get travel insurance while trekking in the Himalayas is solely for your safety.
      Don't forget journeys like this have risks of altitude sickness and unseen accidents. In case of a medical emergency, travel insurance allows us to get you to transfer to the nearby hospital as soon as we can. It's better to be safe than sorry in the Himalayas because this place gives no second chance.

    • Yes, you can charge your mobile phone and cameras during the trek. The lodge has separate charging stations, where trekkers are allowed to charge their electronic devices paying a few extra bucks. These additional charges are not covered in your package cost, so do carry spare cash with you.

    • The accommodation during the three high passes trek is decent with nice, clean rooms and an attached washroom. There is also an option for a luxury overnight stay if you wish. Do know that our package cost includes basic lodging. 
      Likewise, we give breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. You can choose from a wide range of varieties. Among all the available dishes, dal bhat and tarkari are the best meals because of their nutritional value, freshness, and delicious taste.

    • Yes, you can use the internet during the trek. The cellular network works quite well in the lower altitude of the route. However, in the high altitude, the connection might not be strong enough. Similarly, you can get WiFi in some villages along the trekking route by paying extra money.

    • Our groups are usually small and consist of a minimum of 2 to 12 trekkers. In a group of more than 8 trekkers, there will be an assistant guide too. You can join our existing group or trek with your own group.

    • During the trek, each trekker gets 10 kgs of the weight limit. We use a duffel bag to pack all of our luggage for the trek. Porters carry the duffel bag during the trek.

    Client Reviews

    tptripadvisor
    • T
      ThomasAustraliaApril 09, 2024

      Three Passes Trek

      KP and the team run a seem-less ship. Attentive to detail, always available to answer questions and address any concerns. The whole trip was taken care of including the days either side in Kathmandu and it made it easy to travel without having to think or plan - and at a good price.
      My guide Jami was excellent, he had so much experience and knowledge on the route/area and made the trek easy. He would always do the little things like getting me the better room, extra meals on the big hiking days and getting through check points quickly and adjusting the itinerary on the go to adjust for the weather or based on what I wanted to do.
      Can’t speak highly enough for Nepal Nirvana Trails as a company to trek with.

      Dear Thomas, Namaste!
      Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a seamless and enjoyable experience with Nepal Nirvana Trails. We're also delighted to hear that Jami, your guide, exceeded your expectations with his experience, knowledge, and attention to detail. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for another unforgettable adventure in Nepal!
      Best Regards,
      Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
      WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

    • S
      StevenNew ZealandDecember 17, 2023

      ABSOLUTELY 100% AMAZING 3 Passes and EBC

      3 Passes and Everest Base Camp 21 days, Kathmandu to Kathamndu. KP and Uttar and Bikram were absolutely 100% awesome. This trek is not easy but these guys made it so. Nepal Nirvana, it was. Fantastic conditions, cold as but mostly clear the tea houses were all good, the food abundant and good, everything was easy, other than actually walking up to the tops of the passes! KP was on top of the logistics in Kathmandu and Uttar and Bikram took awesome care of everything day to day. We had snow and whiteout one day but even that day was actually really enjoyable. I cant recommend this relatively new company and the staff highly enough! Thank you Uttar! And thank you KP. We had one of the best experiences I think possible in your most beautiful country and I think we will be back sometime to do another! (I am 58yrs and my daughter is 27 - not super fit but reasonably experienced and mostly sensible. The passes are not for the faint hearted! They definitely test the lungs and legs, but are doable for most people if you take your time and are prepared to push when you need to.) An awesome trip! A bucket list item ticked in the best possible way!

      Dear Steven, Namaste!
      Thank you for sharing an incredible review of your experience of the Everest Three Passes Trek with the Nirvana Trails team! We are always pleased to guide you with better services. We are glad that your experience was wonderful with our guide, Uttar, and Porter Bikram. Good luck with your future endeavors and wish to see you again for more adventures.
      Best Regards,
      Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
      WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

    Similar Trips

    Ask a Question

    help
    Need help?

    Are you looking for the Nepal holiday? or need help to plan a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.