Trip Facts

• Destination: Khumbu Region
• Duration: 19
• Trip Grade: Extreme
• Best Time: Mar-May/Sep-Nov
• Max Elevation: 5550m
• Group Size: 2-12

Everest Three Pass Trek – 19 Days

Everest Three Pass Trek in Nepal: The Ultimate 19-Day High-Altitude Odyssey

“Everest Three Pass Trek is a 19-day high-altitude journey through Nepal’s most dramatic Himalayan passes and iconic Everest views.”

The air thins. Each breath becomes a conscious, deliberate act. Before you, a world of jagged, snow-drenched peaks tears at the blue sky. This isn’t just a view; it’s a revelation. Welcome to the Everest Three Pass Trek in Nepal, arguably the most challenging and rewarding circuit in the Himalayas. This is not the well-trodden path to Everest Base Camp; this is a journey for the purist, the adventurer who seeks not just to see the world’s highest mountain, but to truly immerse themselves in its raw, untamed heart.

For nineteen days, you will traverse a high-altitude labyrinth, crossing three formidable passes—Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La—each with its own distinct character and soul-stirring panorama. This trek is a symphony of extreme physical exertion, profound cultural immersion, and moments of spiritual clarity that will redefine your understanding of what is possible. It is a test of body, mind, and spirit, where the reward is not just a certificate of completion, but a fundamental shift in your perspective. If you are ready to answer the call of the high Himalayas, the Everest Three Pass Trek awaits.

What is the Everest Three Pass Trek?

A Journey Beyond the Base Camp

While thousands of trekkers each year follow the classic route to Everest Base Camp (EBC), a select few venture deeper into the Khumbu region’s wild heart. The Everest Three Pass Trek is a comprehensive, high-altitude circuit that interlinks the three main valleys of the Khumbu: the Bhote Koshi Valley, the Gokyo Valley, and the main Khumbu Valley. Instead of retracing your steps, you are constantly moving forward into new, breathtaking landscapes, making it a far more dynamic and immersive experience.

The Three Giants: Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La

The trek is defined by its three monumental passes, each presenting a unique challenge:

Renjo La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft): Often considered the most scenic of the three, Renjo La offers a spectacular, wide-angle view of the entire Everest range, including a stunning vista of the Gokyo Lakes below. The trail from the Thame side is a long, steady climb, but the payoff at the summit is one of the most photographed and cherished moments of the entire journey.

Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft): This is the technical and adrenaline-pumping heart of the trek. Connecting the Gokyo Valley to the EBC trail, Cho La is a steep, often icy and glaciated pass that requires careful navigation, the use of crampons, and a steady nerve. It’s a true mountaineering experience that demands respect and focus.

Kongma La Pass (5,535m / 18,159ft): The highest and least frequented of the three, Kongma La is a formidable challenge. The trail is rugged, remote, and feels like a true wilderness expedition. Crossing it provides a sense of profound isolation and offers a unique, “backdoor” perspective on the Khumbu Glacier and the peaks surrounding Everest Base Camp.

How It Differs from the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek

Choosing the Everest Three Pass Trekking in Nepal over the standard EBC trek is like choosing to read the entire epic poem instead of just the final chapter. While EBC is an incredible achievement, the Three Pass circuit offers:

• A True Circuit:You finish in a different place than you started, seeing new scenery every single day.
• Greater Challenge & Solitude: You venture far from the crowds, finding tranquility in remote valleys like Gokyo and Chhukung.
• Unparalleled Panoramas:You ascend multiple high viewpoints (Gokyo Ri, Chhukung Ri, Kalapatthar) and cross three passes, each revealing a new angle on the world’s tallest peaks.
• Deeper Cultural Immersion:The circuit takes you through less-visited villages like Thame and Phortse, offering a more authentic glimpse into traditional Sherpa life.

To truly grasp the rhythm and challenge of this incredible journey, a detailed plan is essential. Below is a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary that outlines the path, the altitudes you’ll reach, the key activities, and the approximate trekking hours each day. This is the blueprint for your high-altitude odyssey, a carefully crafted schedule that balances challenge with crucial acclimatization.

Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2,860m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

• Activities:Your adventure begins with the thrilling flight into Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. After meeting your guide and porters, you’ll start your trek by descending towards the Dudh Koshi River. The trail is a gentle introduction, passing through beautiful pine forests, crossing suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags, and passing small Sherpa settlements.
• Trekking Hours:3-4 hours

Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

• Activities:Today is a challenging and beautiful day of uphill trekking. You’ll cross the Dudh Koshi several times on spectacular suspension bridges and make a final, steep climb through a forest to Namche Bazaar. If the weather is clear, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest from a viewpoint on the trail.
• Trekking Hours:6-7 hours

Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

• Activities: Rest and adaptation are key to success. Today, you’ll take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and more. In the afternoon, you can explore the vibrant Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Museum, or relax in a café.
• Trekking Hours:2-3 hours (acclimatization hike)

Day 4: Trek to Thame (3,820m)

• Activities: You’ll branch off the main EBC trail, heading west towards the remote Bhote Koshi Valley.The trail offers quieter scenery and a glimpse into traditional village life. Thame is the birthplace of many famous Sherpa mountaineers, including Tenzing Norgay, and has a historic, atmospheric monastery.
• Trekking Hours:4-5 hours

Day 5: Trek to Lungden (4,600m)

• Activities:The trail continues to climb higher into a more arid and rugged landscape. The air feels noticeably thinner as you approach Lungden, a small settlement that serves as the base camp for your first major pass. This is a short day to aid acclimatization before the big challenge tomorrow.
• Trekking Hours:3-4 hours

Day 6: Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m) & Trek to Gokyo (4,790m)

• Activities:The first of the three passes. An early start is essential for the long, steady climb to the summit of Renjo La. The prayer-flag-adorned top offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Everest massif and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes below. The descent is steep and challenging, but the reward is the beautiful Gokyo Valley.
• Trekking Hours: 7-8 hours

Day 7: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Explore Gokyo Lakes

• Activities: A pre-dawn hike up Gokyo Ri is a must. From the summit, you’ll witness one of the most incredible 360-degree panoramas in the Himalayas, including four of the world’s six highest peaks. Afterward, you’ll have the rest of the day to rest and explore the sacred Gokyo Lakes.
• Trekking Hours:3-4 hours

Day 8: Trek to Dragnag (4,700m) via the Ngozumpa Glacier

• Activities:Today you will traverse the vast, rocky expanse of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. It’s a fascinating, otherworldly experience. The trail is undulating and requires careful footing as you make your way to the small settlement of Dragnag, preparing for the next pass.
• Trekking Hours:3-4 hours

Day 9: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)

• Activities:The most technical of the three passes. You’ll start early, often needing crampons and an ice axe for the steep, icy ascent to the pass. The views from the top are dramatic and wild. The descent is equally challenging, leading down a steep scree slope into the valley and the small, isolated hamlet of Dzongla.
• Trekking Hours:7-9 hours

Day 10: Trek to Lobuche (4,940m) via the Khumbu Glacier

• Activities: The trail today joins the main Everest Base Camp route. You’ll trek alongside the Khumbu Glacier, with the majestic peak of Ama Dablam dominating the skyline. The atmosphere becomes more charged with the energy of trekkers heading towards their goal. The memorial site for climbers who lost their lives on Everest is a sobering stop along the way.
• Trekking Hours:4-5 hours

Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,170m) & Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

• Activities:A short trek takes you to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Base Camp. After a quick rest and lunch, you’ll continue your journey to the iconic Everest Base Camp. Standing amongst the expedition tents and ice pinnacles of the Khumbu Icefall is a truly unforgettable experience.
• Trekking Hours:5-6 hours

Day 12: Hike Kalapatthar (5,545m) & Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)

• Activities: An early morning climb to the summit of Kalapatthar provides the classic, close-up, unobstructed view of Mount Everest’s summit as the sun rises. After soaking in the views, you’ll retrace your steps to Lobuche and then descend to the beautiful, fertile village of Dingboche.
• Trekking Hours: 6-7 hours

Day 13: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

• Activities: Another vital rest day for your body to adapt. You can take a short acclimatization hike up the ridge behind Dingboche towards Chhukung, offering superb views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. Relax and prepare for your final and highest pass.
• Trekking Hours: 3-4 hours (acclimatization hike)

Day 14: Trek to Chhukung (4,730m)

• Activities:A short and scenic trek takes you further into the Imja Valley. Chhukung is a small, isolated village nestled in a breathtaking amphitheater of giants, including the formidable south face of Lhotse. This is your staging point for Kongma La.
• Trekking Hours: 2-3 hours

Day 15: Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m) & Trek to Pangboche (3,985m)

• Activities: The highest and most strenuous of the three passes. The climb is a long, arduous slog over a rocky moraine. The sense of isolation and raw wilderness is profound. From the top, you’ll get a unique perspective of the Khumbu Glacier. The long descent takes you down to the main trail and the village of Pangboche.
• Trekking Hours:8-9 hours

Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

• Activities:You will descend today, passing through the iconic Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of the Khumbu. After a visit, the trail drops through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests back towards the bustling Namche Bazaar. It feels like a return to civilization.
• Trekking Hours:5-6 hours

Day 17: Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

• Activities:The final leg of your high-altitude journey is a pleasant descent. The air feels rich with oxygen, and the walking feels easier. You’ll retrace your steps along the Dudh Koshi River, savoring the last views of the peaks and the final moments on the trail.
• Trekking Hours: 4-5 hours

Day 18: Trek to Lukla (2,860m)

• Activities: A short final day’s trek takes you back to Lukla. This is a time for celebration with your guide and porters, sharing stories and reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve all completed together. You’ll have a final farewell dinner in the evening.
• Trekking Hours:3-4 hours

Day 19: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

• Activities:Weather permitting, you’ll catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, leaving the mountains behind but carrying their spirit with you. The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore Kathmandu, or shop for souvenirs.
• Trekking Hours:N/A

The Soul of the Himalayas: Culture, Spirituality, and People

The Everest Three Pass Trek in Nepal is as much a cultural pilgrimage as it is a physical adventure. The Khumbu region is steeped in a rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhist tradition and Sherpa culture.

The Sherpa People: More Than Just Mountaineers

The word “Sherpa” has become synonymous with high-altitude guiding, but they are far more than just porters. They are an ethnic group who migrated from Tibet centuries ago and have forged a life in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Their resilience, deep spirituality, and intimate knowledge of the mountains are legendary. In villages like Thame and Khumjung, you can witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations, centered around farming, trade, and a deep reverence for the mountains they call home.

Mani Walls, Chörtens, and Monasteries: A Journey of Faith

The trail is a living prayer. You will walk alongside countless Mani walls—stone slabs inscribed with the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum.” It is customary to always keep these walls to your left as you pass. Spinning the large prayer wheels at monasteries and passing through chörtens (receptacles for offerings) are all part of the spiritual fabric of the trek. A visit to the Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu, is a must. Here, against the backdrop of Ama Dablam, you can witness monks in prayer and feel the profound peace of this sacred place.

The Sagarmatha National Park: A Fragile Alpine Ecosystem

The entire trek takes place within the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This protected area is a sanctuary for unique high-altitude flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for the Himalayan Tahr, a mountain goat with incredible agility, the colorful Danphe pheasant (Nepal’s national bird), and if you are exceptionally lucky, a glimpse of a snow leopard or a red panda. The park’s fragile ecosystem is a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible and sustainable tourism.

Practical Trekker’s Guide: Planning Your Everest Three Pass Trek in Nepal

Undertaking this journey requires careful preparation. Here is the essential information you need to plan your adventure.

How Difficult is the Everest Three Pass Trek? (A Realistic Assessment)

This is a strenuous, high-altitude trek that should not be underestimated. On a scale of 1 to 10, it’s a solid 9. Here’s the breakdown:

• Daily Duration: 5-8 hours of hiking per day, with some pass-crossing days lasting 9-10 hours.
• Altitude: You will be trekking consistently above 4,000m, with three major passes over 5,300m. The risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is very real.
• Terrain: Expect everything from well-graded stone steps to steep, rocky ascents, scree slopes, and icy glaciers requiring crampons.
• Remoteness: Sections of the trail, particularly around Kongma La, are far from help. Self-sufficiency and a good guide are crucial.
• Required Fitness:You need excellent cardiovascular fitness and strong leg muscles. Prior multi-day trekking experience at high altitude is highly recommended.
• Altitude Sickness: Prevention, Symptoms, and Action Plan

Altitude Sickness is the single biggest risk on this Everest Three Pass Trek. It is caused by ascending too quickly for the body to adapt to the lower oxygen levels.

Prevention:

• The golden rule is “climb high, sleep low.”
• Stay hydrated (at least 3-4 liters of water per day), eat a high-calorie diet, avoid alcohol and sedatives, and most importantly, listen to your guide and acclimatize properly. Our itinerary includes built-in acclimatization days for this reason.
• Symptoms: Watch for headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite.
• Action Plan: If you experience mild symptoms, do not ascend further. Rest at the same altitude until you feel better. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, you must descend immediately. Severe AMS (HAPE or HACE) is a medical emergency that requires immediate descent. A reputable trekking company will have clear protocols for managing AMS.

The Perfect Packing List: Gear That Saves Lives

Packing right is critical for comfort and safety. Here are the essentials:

1. Clothing:Layering is key. Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece/down), and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Pack warm down jacket and pants for evenings and high passes.
2. Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots are non-negotiable. Also bring comfortable camp shoes and warm socks.
3. Gear: A warm 4-season sleeping bag (-20°C rating), a sturdy backpack (or a duffel for porters), trekking poles, a headlamp, and a high-quality down jacket.
4. Technical Equipment for Passes: Your trekking agency will provide crampons and an ice axe. You must have warm, waterproof gloves and a helmet (usually provided).
5. Health & Personal:First-aid kit (with blister care and Diamox for AMS), sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, water purification tablets or filter, and personal toiletries.
6. Documents: Passport, visa, trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park entry, TIMS card), travel insurance (mandatory, must cover high-altitude evacuation), and cash (NPR and USD).

Choosing the Right Trekking Agency and Guide for Everest Three Pass Trek

Your choice of trekking company is the most important decision you’ll make. Look for:

• Local Expertise:Choose a company with local, experienced guides who have extensive knowledge of the Three Pass route.
• Safety Record: Ask about their safety protocols, especially for AMS and emergency evacuations. Do they carry a satellite phone or a medical oxygen cylinder?
• Fair Treatment:Ensure the company is ethical and provides fair wages, proper equipment, and insurance for their guides and porters.
• Transparent Pricing: A good company will provide a clear, detailed breakdown of what is and isn’t included in the cost.
• Reviews and Testimonials:Read recent reviews from past trekkers to get a sense of their experiences.
• When to Go:Timing Your Everest Three Pass Trek for Perfection

The Himalayan weather is harsh and unpredictable. Choosing the right season is critical for a safe and enjoyable trek.

1. Spring (March-May): Rhododendrons and Clear Skies through out Everest Three Pass Trek. This is arguably the best time to trek. The weather is generally stable and clear, with warm days and mild nights. The hillsides are ablaze with blooming rhododendrons, and the trails are bustling with life. It’s the pre-monsoon season, so the skies are often at their clearest, offering spectacular mountain views. This is also the peak climbing season for Everest, so you’ll see expedition teams in Base Camp.
2. Autumn (September-November) Crisp Air and Peak Season: The post-monsoon season is the second-best and most popular time to trek. The monsoon rains have washed the dust and pollution from the air, leaving crystal-clear, crisp views. The temperatures are cool and pleasant, making for ideal hiking conditions. The skies are generally stable for weeks on end. This is the busiest trekking season, so teahouses can be crowded.

Why Monsoon and Winter are Not Your Friends

Monsoon (June-August): The region receives heavy rainfall, making trails slippery, leech-infested, and dangerous. Cloud cover obscures the mountain views for most of the day. The high passes become treacherous with snow and ice.

Winter (December-February): Extreme cold is the major challenge. Temperatures regularly drop below -20°C at night, and the high passes receive heavy snowfall, often making them impassable. Many teahouses in higher villages shut down. Only very experienced, well-equipped winter trekkers should attempt this.

Responsible Trekking: Leaving Only Footprints in the Khumbu

The beauty of the Khumbu is fragile, and its future depends on responsible tourism. As a trekker, you have a duty to minimize your impact.

Supporting Local Communities and Porters

The most direct way to support the local economy is to hire local guides and porters. Treat them with respect and dignity—they are the backbone of your trek. Ensure they have proper clothing, shelter, and food. Tip them fairly at the end of your journey as a sign of appreciation for their hard work. Buy local crafts and products along the way.

Environmental Stewardship in a Sacred Landscape

Carry In, Carry Out: Never leave any trash on the trail. This includes biodegradable waste like orange peels, which take years to decompose at high altitudes.

• Refill, Don’t Rebuy:Use a reusable water bottle and purification method (filter or tablets) instead of buying countless plastic bottles, which contribute to a massive waste problem in the region.
• Stay on the Trail:Avoid creating new paths which can lead to soil erosion.
• Respect Wildlife:Observe animals from a distance. Do not feed them.
• Conserve Energy:Use the heating and lighting in teahouses sparingly, as resources are precious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Everest Three Pass Trek

Q1: Can I do the Everest Three Pass Trek without a guide?

A: While technically possible for extremely experienced high-altitude trekkers with strong navigation skills, it is not recommended. The passes, especially Cho La and Kongma La, can be dangerous and confusing in bad weather. A guide provides invaluable expertise on route-finding, altitude management, and local culture, and is crucial for safety in case of an emergency.

Q2: What is the highest altitude on the Everest Three Pass Trek?

A: The highest point is the summit of Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters (18,159 feet). Kalapatthar (5,545m) is slightly higher, but Kongma La is the highest pass you cross.

Q3: How long is the Everest Three Pass Trek?

A: The classic circuit takes 19 days, including travel to and from Lukla and essential acclimatization days. It can be done in 18 days with a very fast pace, but this significantly increases the risk of AMS.

Q4: What kind of physical fitness is required for the Three Passes?

A: You need excellent cardiovascular endurance. We recommend at least 4-6 months of dedicated training, including 3-5 sessions of cardiovascular exercise (running, cycling, swimming) per week, combined with long hikes on hilly terrain carrying a weighted pack. Strength training for your legs and core is also highly beneficial.

Q5: Is travel insurance mandatory for this trek?

A: Yes, absolutely. You must have travel insurance that specifically covers trekking up to 6,000 meters and includes emergency helicopter evacuation. Without it, you will be liable for the enormous cost of a rescue, which can run into tens of thousands of dollars.

Q6: What kind of food can I expect on the trek?

A: Teahouses offer a surprisingly varied menu, including Dal Bhat (a traditional lentil and rice dish, highly recommended for energy), pasta, pizza, momos (dumplings), soups, and toast. The menu gets more limited and expensive the higher you go.

Q7: Will I have access to Wi-Fi and charging on the Three Pass Trek?

A: Yes, most teahouses in the main villages (Namche, Dingboche, Gokyo) offer Wi-Fi and charging for a fee. However, the connection is often slow and unreliable. In more remote stops, these services may not be available at all. It’s best to unplug and enjoy the journey.

Q8: How much should I tip my guide and porters?

A: Tipping is a customary way to show your appreciation. A general guideline is around $5-10 USD per day for your guide and $3-5 USD per day for your porter, to be divided among the portering team if there are several. This should be given in an envelope at the end of the trek.

Q9: What is the risk of altitude sickness on the Everest Three Pass Trek?

A: The risk is significant due to the high altitudes and rapid ascents. However, with a well-paced itinerary, proper acclimatization, and an experienced guide, the risk can be managed effectively. Always communicate any symptoms to your guide immediately.

Q10: Which pass is the most difficult: Renjo La, Cho La, or Kongma La?

A: This is subjective, but most trekkers and guides agree that Cho La is the most technically challenging due to its steep, icy, and glaciated section that often requires crampons. Kongma La is the most physically demanding due to its higher altitude and the long, strenuous moraine climb. Renjo La is often considered the most scenic, but its long ascent is still a formidable challenge.

Your Himalayan Transformation Awaits

The Everest Three Pass Trek in Nepal is more than a holiday; it’s an expedition that tests your limits and expands your horizons. It’s a journey that will challenge you physically, inspire you spiritually, and reward you with the most profound mountain scenery on Earth. You will return home not just with photos, but with a newfound resilience, a deeper appreciation for a different way of life, and memories that will warm you for a lifetime.

The journey of a lifetime is not a dream; it’s a trail waiting for your footsteps. If you feel the call of the high passes and are ready to embark on a truly transformative adventure, it’s time to start planning.

Ready to conquer the three great passes of the Everest region? Contact our expert team today to explore our detailed itineraries and let us help you prepare for the trek of a lifetime. Your Himalayan odyssey begins now.