Everest Three Pass Trek

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Views from Renjo_ La pass
Key Information
  • Destination:Nepal
  • Duration:19 Days
  • Trip Grade: Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude:5,545 m/18,192 ft (Kala Patthar)
  • Starts/Ends:Kathmandu/kathmandu
  • Trip Style:Private and Group Join
  • Group Size:2 to 12
  • Best Time:Spring & Autumn

The Everest three pass trek will take you to the heights you could never imagine. It is the ultimate trekking program in the Everest region of Nepal packed with both adventure and cultural encounters. On this trek, you will go above 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) from sea level multiple times. Who is this trek for? Individuals with strong fitness and previous high altitude experience can do the three pass trek in Everest.

For nearly three weeks you will be exploring the gems of Nepal, witnessing breathtaking landscapes. Many say the three high passes- Kongma La (5,540 m/18,176 ft), Cho La (5,420 m/17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,360 m/17,585 ft), are like summiting three peaks, and we as well agree. Nevertheless, the journey is not technically advanced at all.

Join us on 19 days three pass trek in Nepal and embark on a lifetime adventure that will take you to the hidden corners around the tallest mountain in the world. Challenge your limits and make new benchmarks for yourself. The Everest three passes is one of the ultimate treks in the Himalayas.

What are the major attractions during the three pass trek in Nepal?

There is a lot to explore and experience during the 3 pass trek. Below, we have mentioned the top attractions of this trek:

  • The thrilling Lukla flight is the first thing you will come across on this trek. The Lukla airport (2,846 m/9,337 ft) is quite famous for its location, altitude, and short runway.
  • The adventurous trail winding from lush rhododendron and magnolia forests to terraces and glacier moraines. Cross many suspension bridges on the way and trek on steep, rugged tracks.
  • The Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,290 ft) is the biggest Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu region. From gear and souvenir shops to restaurants, luxury lodges, cafes, museums, and health clinics, there are many more services than you might have anticipated.
  • Side hikes to Everest Hotel View (3,962 m/13,000 ft), Chhukung Ri (5,546 m/18,195 ft), Gokyo Ri (5,357 m/17,575 ft), and Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,192 ft). You also have the option to go on an excursion to Ama Dablam Base Camp and Island Peak Base Camp. These side hikes help you acclimatize and present gorgeous sunrises and mountain panoramas.
  • On this trek, get to see views of five eight-thousander mountains: Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m/28,169 ft), Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m/26,864 ft). Likewise, the trek offers views of many other peaks like Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), Pumori (7,161 m/23,494 ft), Nuptse (7,861 m/25,791 ft), Thamserku (6,608 m/21,680 ft), Cholatse (6,440 m/21,130 ft), etc.
  • The Sherpas and other mountain communities will enrich your journey with their heart-warming welcomes and kind gestures. Interact with the local communities during your overnight stays and get to know their lifestyle.
  • Visit some of the oldest monasteries in the Himalayas, like Tengboche (3,860 m/12,660 ft), Pangboche (3,985 /13,074 ft), and Thame (3,800 m/12,467 ft). Likewise, you will come across many stupas, chortens, prayer wheels, and prayer flags on the way. You will be amazed by seeing the cultural richness.
  • Reach the lap of the highest mountain in the world, Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,598 ft), along the Khumbu Glacier moraine. Get to see the infamous Khumbu Icefall.
  • Trek past the biggest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa Glacier, while trekking to Gokyo Valley. Here, explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes, which carry religious values too. These beautiful lakes will leave you mesmerized.
  • Explore the Nangpa La Valley and the less visited Sherpa village called Marlung.
  • While exploring all these places, you will cross the three passes that connect all these places with each other.

Who can do the three pass trek, and what to expect during this trek?

The three pass trek is not for everyone. This is a seriously challenging trek with very demeaning ascents and descents. Not only that, this trek also requires 19 days of commitment. If you have the fitness, mindset, and time, you may consider the three high passes trek. You will trek a minimum of 6 hours a day, and some days can go well above 7 to 8 hours.

You will be trekking on diverse terrain and changing altitudes. As the trek progresses, you will get used to elevation because our three pass trek itinerary is well-designed, keeping acclimatization in point. You will have dinner and breakfast in the same place you spend overnight and lunch on the way. Porters will be ahead of the group, so keep essentials in your daypack.

Three high passes trek: clockwise or anti-clockwise?

Anti-clockwise: Start with Kongma La pass and end with Renjo La pass.

Clockwise: Start with Renjo La pass and end with Kongma La pass.

Our 19 days three-pass trek itinerary follows an anti-clockwise direction. Most of the trekkers do the 3-pass trek in the anti-clockwise direction because it provides a better acclimatization chance. By the time you reach Everest Base Camp (on the 10th day), you will be well-acclimatized.

However, if you follow the clockwise route, you have to climb Renjo La pass (5,360 m/17,585 ft) on the 6th day and spend the night in Gokyo village at 4,750 meters (15,584 ft). It is not only physically very draining, but you will be spending the night at quite a high altitude very quickly.

For a better acclimatization schedule, we recommend doing the Everest three high passes trek in the anti-clockwise direction!

Everest three passes trek cost 2024/2025

The Everest three pass trek cost starts at USD 1650 per person and goes up to USD 5,000 per person as per the services included in the package. The package cost covers major expenses during the trek, however, the participants have to manage the international flight fares, tips, shopping, travel insurance, additional night stay or food/drinks, etc by themselves.

High-demand seasons like spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) may have slightly higher costs due to favorable weather conditions and popularity. Similarly, during the off-seasons the price of accommodations, meals, and Lukla flights get low, making the overall cost of the package a bit down.

Get the best three pass trek 2024 cost with us!

Itinerary

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Our representative will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on your landing. You can meet them around the terminal gate. They will transfer you to the hotel in a private vehicle and answer any questions you have.

We will spend the evening briefing the trek and packing. In the late evening, have a complimentary welcome dinner organized by the company and return to your hotel for a good night's sleep.

  • Meals: Welcome dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast and a thrilling Lukla flight. In the peak trekking seasons, the Lukla flights mostly take off from Ramechhap Airport, which is 4-5 hours away from Kathmandu.

Upon landing in Lukla, meet with your porters and begin descending to Phakding. The route follows the Thado Koshi river via rhododendron forests and goes past small settlements, crossing hanging bridges.

  • Max. Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trek
  • Distance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles

Your third day of walking will take you to the iconic Namche Bazaar. The trail from Phakding descends through dense forests. You will cross the long Hillary Suspension Bridge on the way and register permits in Monjo village. From here, the trail ascends following the Dudh Koshi river and steeply climbs to Namche Bazaar.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles

Spend one more night in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness. Early in the morning, hike to the Hotel Everest View via Syangboche Airstrip. You get to see mountain views of Thamserku, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam during the hike. Later, explore Namche Bazaar, visiting the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,962 m/13,000 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

From Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, the trail is rugged and steep. You will trek via dense forests that gradually thin out and reach Phunki Thanga. From here, follow an uphill route to Tengboche village. Explore the biggest monastery of the Khumbu region in this village and witness the stunning view of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,860 m/12,660 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 9.2 km/5.7 miles

The trail further ascends from Tengboche to Dingboche, eventually leaving the treeline behind. First, descend to Deboche village via lush rhododendron forests and drop down to Imja Khola. Crossing this river, you will follow the forested route to Pangboche village and trek past terraces to reach Dingboche.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,410 m/14,470 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 12 km/7.45 miles

The trail continues from Dingboche village to Chhukung. It is the last settlement in the Khumbu region before Island Peak. From Dingboche, you will follow an offbeat, less crowded route to Chhukung. It is a short trekking day, so you will have plenty of time to rest and recover before tackling the first pass.

  • Max. Altitude: 4,730 m/15,518 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 5.3 km/3.1 miles

On this day, you will be taking the second acclimatization break. For the hike, ascend to Chhukung Ri, or you also have the option to hike to Island Peak Base Camp. The hike will offer you gorgeous sunrises and breathtaking views of Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Everest, Island Peak, Baruntse, etc.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,546 m/18,195 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3-4 hours

Today, you will cross the first pass- Kongma La to reach Lobuche village from Chhukung. From Chhukung village, it is a steep uphill walk to reach the top of the pass, which is nestled between Mt. Nuptse Wall, Mihara, and Pokalde peaks.

The view from the top of the pass is excellent. Descend from here and walk along the Khumbu glacier and its moraines to reach Lobuche village for the night stay.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,540 m/18,176 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Distance: 12 km/7.4 miles

This day involves hiking to the base of the tallest mountain in the world, Everest Base Camp. The day begins early with a gradual ascend from Lobuche village to Pyramid. From here, follow steep, rocky tracks to Groak Shep and continue the hike to EBC. Later, return to Gorak Shep for a night stay.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,364 m/17,598 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Distance: 7.5 km/4.6 miles

Early in the morning, you will hike to the very famous Kala Patthar viewpoint today. The goal is to reach the viewpoint just in time to catch the glorious sunrise and spectacular view of Everest and other Himalayan mountains. Later, descend to Gorak Shep and trek from here to Dzongla. The trail is the same up to Lobuche village, and from here follows a different route to Dzongla.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,545 m/18,192 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 9.6 km/6 miles

It is time to cross the second pass today. From Dzongle, you will trek west and gradually ascend, following a steep uphill slope to reach the top of the Cho La pass. On the way, you may also come across icy tracks. The view of Mt. Ama Dablam and Chola Lake are phenomenal.

The trail then descends to Thangnak and follows an isolated route to Gokyo village. You will trek past the biggest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa Glacier, and the first and second Gokyo Lakes to reach Gokyo village.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,420 m/17,782 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 13 km/8 miles

This is your final acclimatization break in Gokyo village. You will hike to Gokyo Ri early in the morning. The hiking route is rugged and steep, so you have to be extra careful. Witness stunning sunrise from the viewpoint, along with the breathtaking sight of Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, Island Peak, etc. Later, explore the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes and spend the remaining day in Gokyo village.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,357 m/17,575 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5 hours

On this day, you will cross the final pass- Renjo La. From Gokyo village, ascends to the top of the pass early in the morning. The scenery from the pass will be surreal, as usual. Further, descend from here to a series of frozen lakes and continue the trek to Lungdeng.

  • Max. Altitude: 5,360 m/17,585 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 11 km/6.8 miles

The trail steeply descends and follows a narrow, boulders-filled area. You will reach Marlung village, and from here, follow a barren land to Thame. Visit an ancient monastery in Thame village.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,800 m/12,467 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 8.2 km/5 miles

Leaving Thame, cross a small suspension bridge over the Bhote Koshi river and walk along the same river bank. The trail continues via lush forests. On the way, you will come across cascading waterfalls and streams. As you are almost towards the end of the trek, enjoy your time and do not rush.

  • Max. Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Distance: 6.8 km/4.2 miles

Today is your last day of trekking. You will follow the same trail from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Trek through dense forests and cross numerous suspension bridges on the way. Enjoy your time in Lukla.

  • Max. Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 13.6 km/8.4 miles

Take a morning flight back to Kathmandu. Our team will drop you at the hotel. If you feel very tired, we highly recommend getting a massage. Rest and have delicious food. Explore bustling local markets and buy souvenirs. We will meet you in the late evening for a complimentary farewell dinner.

  • Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 35 minutes flight

You will fly back to your home on this day. Our airport team will take care of your departure.

  • Meals: Breakfast only

Trip Cost Details

What's Included
  • Airport picks and drops by private vehicle
  • Accommodation during the trek
  • Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during trekking
  • Experienced government license holder trek guide and porter to carry your luggage
  • Accommodation,food, drinks,salary
  • insurance, transportation for the Guide and porter
  • Everest National Park entry permits
  • TIMS Card (Trekker's Information Management System card)
  • All additional government VAT.
  • Domestic flights both ways from Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu
  • 2-night Hotel in Kathmandu
What's not Included
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • International airfare
  • Travelers Insurance
  • Hot and cold drinks)
  • Bar bills, telephone bills, and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
  • All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation,
  •  personal illness, strike, etc.
  • In case of emergency rescue helicopter if needed. We will manage.
  • Tips for porter and guide
Dates & Availability
Starts:Dec 10, 2024Ends:Dec 28, 2024
Price fromUS$1650
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 16, 2024Ends:Jan 03, 2025
Price fromUS$1650
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 19, 2024Ends:Jan 06, 2025
Price fromUS$1650
AvailabilityAvailable
Starts:Dec 25, 2024Ends:Jan 12, 2025
Price fromUS$1650
AvailabilityAvailable

Regarding the Lukla flight details which may affect your itinerary. During peak seasons, ( March, April, May, October, and November) the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali Airport due to air traffic expansion In Kathmandu Airport, which is about a 5-hour drive from Kathmandu. Whereas, during non-peak seasons, (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) the flight is operated from Kathmandu.

You have the option to book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla for an extra charge of USD 550 per person. This price is quoted on a 5-people sharing basis. This is the best alternative to avoid the long drive to Manthali airport.

The Above-given cost is per person and the Above-given Everest Three Pass Trek fixed departure dates are available for you. If the given date is not favorable then please contact us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.

Useful Information

Everest three pass trek difficulty

The Everest three passes trek is considered a challenging and strenuous adventure, suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of fitness. The difficulty arises from the rugged terrain, high altitudes, and the requirement to cross three high mountain passes- Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La.

The trek involves steep ascents, descents, and rocky paths, demanding physical endurance and mental resilience. Trekkers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, including cold temperatures and the possibility of snow at higher elevations.

Total distance & daily trekking hours:

The three pass trek covers a total distance of approximately 120 to 150 kilometers (75 to 93 miles), depending on the specific route and side trips. The daily trekking hours vary throughout the trek, ranging from 5 to 8 hours on average. The duration can be influenced by the trekker's pace, acclimatization stops, and the terrain.

Altitude sickness:

Altitude sickness is a potential concern during the Everest three high passes trek due to the high elevations reached. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and dizziness. To prevent altitude sickness, trekkers should acclimatize properly by ascending gradually, staying hydrated, and allowing time for rest at higher altitudes.

Tips for beginner trekkers:

Beginner trekkers are not recommended for the Everest three high passes trek because of its high physical demands. However, if you are a fit individual and believe you can complete this strenuous trek, we have some advice for you to get you prepared for the journey.

  • Start a fitness routine before the trek, including cardiovascular and strength training exercises. Build your core strength, leg strength, stamina, and endurance.
  • Read blogs on three pass trek difficulties. It will help you understand what the journey holds and give you a clear idea.
  • Talk to your doctor to see if the high altitude or the Himalayan environment can affect your health or not.
  • Buy your trekking boots early and get used to it.
  • Drink plenty of water and eat carbohydrate-rich foods to maintain energy levels during the trek.

Emergency response:

In case of emergencies during the Everest three passes trek, we have set a swift and appropriate response plan. Our professional guide will assess the situation and inform us. If the situation can be handled by first-aid, we will do so. If not, we will provide immediate helicopter rescue. Our team will make sure you are safe during the three passes trek in Nepal.

Is travel insurance necessary for the Everest three pass trek 19 days?

Given the potential risks and challenges associated with high-altitude trekking in a remote area, like Everest, comprehensive travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection. Unforeseen circumstances such as personal emergencies, illness, flight cancellations, or other unexpected events may force you to cancel or interrupt your trek.

Travel insurance often includes 24/7 emergency assistance services. This can be invaluable in situations where you need immediate help. In remote trekking regions access to comprehensive medical facilities is limited. Travel insurance ensures that you can receive the necessary medical care and, if needed, be transported to a facility in Kathmandu on time.

So, yes travel insurance is necessary for the Everest three passes trek 19 days.

The best time to do the Everest three pass trek

Trekkers should consider trekking in the spring and autumn seasons for optimal weather conditions. Specifically, the recommended periods are from March to May in spring and from September to November in autumn. Likewise, the summer/monsoon season (June to August) and winter (December to February) have adverse weather conditions, which makes trekking difficult.

Spring and autumn make the Everest region beautiful, with lush vegetation and rhododendrons blooming all over the lower part of the trail. Likewise, the stable weather with clear skies and lovely climate makes trekking in these two seasons phenomenal. The main EBC trail welcomes many tourists from around the world, so the atmosphere is quite joyful.

Accommodation and Meals

There is a good provision for accommodations and meals along the Everest three passes trail, so you will not have any issues with them. However, we will book all the accommodation in advance, so you will not have any hassle getting the rooms. It is a lodge trek that offers basic service to the trekkers. You have to pay a few bucks for additional services like how to shower, charge, and WiFi. Therefore, carry some Nepali cash with you.

The rooms are twin-shared. There are two beds in the rooms with a table and clean bedding. The sleeping bag is highly recommended because you will not get a heating system in the room. The dining area is a communal place for the trekkers where you can have food and mingle. Similarly, washrooms are shared in most lodges. You can also upgrade to luxury lodges (additional cost applies).

The meals served during the Everest three passes trek are a delightful mix of local and international cuisines. Lodges offer extensive menus featuring a diverse array of dishes to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. From authentic Nepalese specialties like dal bhat, momos, Sherpa stew, and flavorful curries to burgers, pizza, pasta, sandwiches, etc are available.

Vegetarian and vegan trekkers will find suitable options on the menu. The breakfast menu includes porridge, pancakes, eggs, bread, chapati, and hot beverages like tea or coffee. Trekkers are advised to maintain a diet rich in carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels during the demanding trek. Boiled drinking water is available in all the lodges.

Everest Three Pass Trek FAQs

  • The three pass trek is the most adventurous and challenging journey in the Everest region. This trek is for experienced trekkers who wish to taste the real thrill and challenge of the Himalayas. It is a 19-day trip in Nepal that will take you above 5,500 meters above sea level and offer spectacular mountain panoramas.

  • The 3 passes trek goes from 18 to 22 days. Our three pass trek itinerary is 19 days long with three acclimatization days. Do not rush during this trek, and take your time to enjoy the journey.

  • The 3 passes trek is very strenuous and only recommended to trekkers with previous experience. There is no technical climbing involved in this trek, but physically, you have to give a lot.

  • Legally you do not necessarily need a guide for the three pass trekking. However, do not do this trek without the guidance of an expert guide. This trek is much tougher than any other trek in the Khumbu region and also traverses isolated mountain passes and glaciers.

  • The best time to do the Everest three pass trek is the spring and autumn seasons. The weather, climate, and trail conditions between March to May and September to November are best for the 3 high passes trek

  • Following our three passes trek itinerary, you will be doing the trek counterclockwise, which offers a better acclimation chance. Counter-clockwise means you will be crossing Kongma La - Cho La - Renjo La. Whereas, in a clockwise direction, you will cross Renjo La - Cho La - Kongma La.

  • You can do the three pass trek as a beginner trekker, but it is highly not recommended unless you are an active and fit individual.

  • Yes, you can definitely add a helicopter flight to your three pass trek itinerary. You can take a helicopter flight back from Thame or Lukla as per your wish. After Thame, you will be trekking back to Lukla, so it is a good place to take a helicopter flight.

  • No, you do not need a special permit to do the three high passes trek. This trek requires the usual Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Rural Municipality permit.

  • Your luggage limit for three high passes trek is 10 kg for a duffel bag and 5 kg for a day pack for each trekker.

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