Three Passes Trek to Everest
“Three High Passes, One Unforgettable Himalayan Adventure.”
The Three Passes Trek to Everest is one of the most spectacular and challenging trekking adventures in the Everest region of Nepal. This high-altitude journey crosses three renowned mountain passes—Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La—while exploring the remote valleys, traditional Sherpa villages, and breathtaking landscapes of the Khumbu Himalayas. Along the route, trekkers enjoy magnificent views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam, with opportunities to visit iconic places such as Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
“Conquer Three Passes, Witness the Roof of the World.”
The Three Passes Trek to Everest is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an adventurous and immersive Himalayan experience away from the standard Everest Base Camp route. With dramatic mountain scenery, high-altitude passes, ancient monasteries, and rich Sherpa culture, it offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Everest region.
“Three Passes, One Epic Journey to Everest.”
Nepal
21 Days
Hard
5545m.
Guest Houses
Jeep, Car, flight
1-20
Spring and Autumn
Trip Overview
Three Passes trek to Everest region is one of the demanding trek in Nepal. Getting yourself in an absolute dilemma regarding what trek route to choose between in the Khumbu region is not a problem only you suffer with. What would choose between the famous destination ‘Everest Base Camp’ and the alluring gift of Nature: Gokyo lakes? It’s a tough choice, isn’t it? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Trek to Three Passes route is the solution to your problem.
The Three Passes Trek route allows you to trail along the classical Everest Base Camp trek route and also will take you to Gokyo Ri and hence you won’t miss any of the admired destinations in the Khumbu region. This route will bless your eyes with the astonishing panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and bless your soul with the warmth of the Sherpa culture and traditions.
As the name suggests, you will be hiking across three major passes in the region. All of them are located above 5,000 meters: Renjo La (5360m/17,585ft), Cho La (5420m/17,782ft) and Kongma La (5535m/18,159ft). The maximum altitude in the trail would be Kala Patthar situated at 5,545m/18,192ft. Kalapatthar will offer you the most startling view of the highest peak in the world, The Everest. And trust me the view you behold will be pretty much unmatched anywhere in the world.
Three Passes Trek is the optimum amount of time to complete this trek. This also includes a few acclimatization days on the way. The beginning itself is very adventurous, as you need to fly into the famous Lukla airport. Not many people seem to have a cheerful expression on their faces while their aircraft descends to land on the 527-meter short piece of land in the lap of the Himalayas. That’s crazy, isn’t it? However, you can add a few days to your trip if you choose to start your trek from two other points. You can fly to Phaplu airport (a few miles south of Lukla) and start trekking from there, or you can travel via road up to Jiri and start hiking. This will add 4 days and 7 days of trekking time, respectively, to your trip. Either we will fly to Lukla or Trek from Phaplu. Wherever you start, you will eventually meet the Three Passes circuit at Namche.
Three Passes trek to Everest route is a very challenging trail, probably the most challenging trail in the Khumbu valley. It is also more challenging compared to its sibling treks, the Everest Base Camp Trek and Gokyo Trek. Therefore, it is very essential to be careful about choosing the seasons too. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Oct-Nov) seem to be the perfect time to hit this trek. The monsoon that remains (June-early Sept.) tends to have the least predictable weather, so it is normally not recommended to trek during this season.
However, many tourists find this time better suited to their vacation schedule and trek during this season. But for whatever reason, it is less promoted to trek this route during winter (Dec-Feb) because it gets very cold and snow may block the passes and make the trail very slippery as well. Although winter offers you clear skies.
“Conquer Three Passes, Witness the Roof of the World.”
Trip Highlights
- Cross the three iconic high-altitude passes: Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m).
- Experience spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks.
- Explore the breathtaking Gokyo Valley and turquoise Gokyo Lakes.
- Visit Everest Base Camp and hike to Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Mount Everest.
- Trek through the diverse landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park, from lush valleys to glaciers and high alpine terrain.
- Discover traditional Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and rich Himalayan culture.
- Enjoy quieter and more remote trails compared with the classic Everest Base Camp route.
- Experience challenging glacier crossings, steep ascents, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
- Stay in local teahouses and experience authentic Sherpa hospitality.
- Complete one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking routes in the Everest region of Nepal.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel
Travelled Distance
Airport to Hotel ( 6 KM)
Max Altitude
1400m.
Hotel Standard
3 Star Hotel
Meals
Welcome Dinner
We will receive you at the airport after what is most probably going to be a long exhausting flight from home to the beautiful nation of mountains. You will be then be transferred to the hotel by Himalaya Family Adventure representative and make sure you get proper rest.
Day 2: Explore Kathmandu, Preparation
Hotel Standard
3 Star Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
The major cultural and religious heritages in the city such as different Durbar Squares, Pasupatinath, Boudanath, and many more sites will be briefly visited today and we will do a pre-trek briefing and gear shopping if you need in the evening
Day 3: Fly to Lukla Airport- Trek to Phakding 3 hrs.
Travelled Distance
8 KM.
Max Altitude
2610m. (Phakding), 2860m. (Lukla)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
The early morning 30 minutes flight to Lukla is definitely going to give you some Adrenaline rush. A quick tip: Try to sit in the right-hand side seat of the aircraft for mesmerizing views during the final approach to the airport. After landing, the trek begins where you follow Dudhkoshi River valley and meet other trekkers/mules and many Buddhist monuments along the way.
Day 4: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar 5-6 hrs.
Travelled Distance
10KM.
Max Altitude
3440m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Today we enter into the Sagarmatha National Park World Heritage site. We would have already received a permit to enter the National Park. Along the trail, we can see the astounding view of the majestic Everest. Reaching Namche will make you feel like being in paradise. This place has been the most popular spot for every tourist who visits the Khumbu region.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day
Travelled Distance
4-5 KM (Everest View Hotel)
Max Altitude
3880m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
In the morning we make an acclimatization hike to Everest view hotel and during the afternoon we explore the local market of Namche Bazaar. There are a lot of things that Namche offers and a single day can be short enough for you to enjoy everything. For a short day of refreshment, you can go for a movie or to a bar for refreshment. There are also a few popular coffee shops in the area. And of course, if you want to have a refreshing massage before you really start climbing; Namche can be the perfect point to do it.
Day 6: Trek from Namche to Thame 4 hrs.
Travelled Distance
9KM.
Max Altitude
3800m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
As we already said, we choose the clockwise route and start our real circuit trek following the West Bhotekoshi river valley towards Nyangpala pass. These valleys have the high profile of mountaineers and have set records on climbing histories since the first ascent to Mt. Everest by Late Tenzing Norgay to Appa Sherpa who climbed Everest 21 times.
Day 7: Trek from Thame to Lungden 4 hrs.
Travelled Distance
10 KM.
Max Altitude
4380m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Today will be a short day of hiking from Thame to Lunden for just about 4 hours in the direction of the Nangpa La, the glaciated pass on Nepal Tibet border. As we go higher and higher, the views of the mountain get better and better. In this part of the trek, two things increase; the magnificence of the landscapes and the altitude.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day
Travelled Distance
4-5 KM.
Max Altitude
4500-4600m. (viewpoint)
Hotel Standard
Tea House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
We stay in Lungden today in order to acclimatize ourselves because we will be climbing much higher tomorrow as you encounter one of the three passes we will be hiking. Lungden is not really a village but a small teahouse settlement, or you might call it a lodge place. From here you can have a mesmerizing view of few mountains which are less popular but still astounding like Chhupu (5,897m), Thyangmochen (6,500m), etc.
Day 9: Trek from Lungden to Renjo La - Gokyo 8-9 hrs.
Travelled Distance
12 KM.
Max Altitude
5360m. (Renjo La Pass), 4790m. (Gokyo)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Pack Lunch-Dinner
Today will be a special day as we will trail the first of our three passes- Renjo La. The start of the day would be gentle but as you will be climbing through the steps of the passes the hike gets more and more challenging. Eventually, the view you get to see makes you forget all the hardships you just faced. You get to see the Majestic Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, and many more gigantic Himalayan peaks which is just incredible.
Day 10: Visit Gokyo Ri 4hrs.- Trek to Thangnak 3 hrs.
Travelled Distance
5 KM.
Max Altitude
5357m. (Gokyo Ri), 4700m. (Thangnak)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Today might be the day when we need to wake up the earliest because missing the sunrise view from Gokyo Ri might be a waste of the hike. So, we start an early morning hike and walk for about 4 hours for an amazing views along the route. In the afternoon we cross the glacier sections on the way to Thangna for the overnight stay at local teahouse (lodges).
Day 11: Trek from Thangnak- Chola Pass- Zdhongla 8-9 hrs.
Travelled Distance
12 KM.
Max Altitude
5420m. (Cho-La Pass), 4830m.(Zdhongla)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Pack Lunch-Dinner
Day 12: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche 3-4 hrs.
Travelled Distance
7 KM.
Max Altitude
4910m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
From Dzongla to Lobuche is easy walk today, no climbing. Beholding the panoramic view of mountains should be normal by now. Today is no exception. Getting mesmerized by the views of the snow-capped peaks we traverse high pastureland before we reach Lobuche normally by lunchtime.
Day 13: Trek from Lobuche to Goraksep-EBC-Goraksep 8/9hrs.
Travelled Distance
11 KM to EBC- Return to Gorakshep 4 KM.
Max Altitude
5365m (EBC), 5180m. (Gorakshep)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Today we can also make a visit to Everest Base Camp; pretty sure nobody wants to miss this opportunity. We walk Westside of Khumbu glacier and pass the moraine on the way to Gorak Shep. We continue our trip today to Legendary Everest Base Camp but before that, we make sure to fill our belly with some light lunch. Return to Goraksep and overnight stay in Highest accommodation.
Day 14: Climb Kalapatthar -Trek to Lobuche 6 hrs.
Travelled Distance
9-10 KM. (together)
Max Altitude
5545m. (Kalapatthar)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
Early morning we make an ascent to Kalapathhar, which is these days being a very popular destination for tourists. Tourists, who cannot trek due to any reason, choose to fly to this place in a chopper. The panoramic view of 8,000 meters high mountains including Mt. Everest 8848m. we get to see is something you will cherish the rest of your life. After return to Gorakshep, we will coninue trek to Lobuche.
Day 15: Cross Kongma La Pass- Trek down to Chhukung 8-9 hrs.
Travelled Distance
12 KM.
Max Altitude
5535m. (Kongma La), 4730m. (Chhukung)
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast- Pack Lunch- Dinner)
The route leads for another absolute wilderness away from the main trekking area. We have to be very careful while climbing and crossing the glacier to reach the Nuptse wall. We climb steadily along the highest pass on our trip-Kongma La pass. The walk leads higher up and then we descend towards the glacier pong and the walk leads to the Chukung village. In between Chhukung and Lobuche, there is no any tea houses, you need to carry plenty of water, prepare with energy bars and pack lunch from Lobuche.
Day 16: Exploration (Chhukung Ri)
Travelled Distance
8-9 KM.
Max Altitude
5550m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Chhukung Ri, 5550metres is being open from the year 2015 for the free trekking peak which used to be an NMA peak required climbing permits to scale it. For this trekking peak, no specific climbing gear and skills are required. The view of Mt. Nuptse, Makalu, Lhotse, Amadablam, Chholaste, Thamerku, Kantega and Tawache, Baruntse, the peak is simply breathtaking.
Day 17: Trek from Chhukung to Pangboche 6 hrs.
Travelled Distance
11 KM.
Max Altitude
3985m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
By today, the trek becomes pretty much easier as we descend along the windy trail to Pangboche passing the beautiful village Dingboche set on the Imja valley. At Pangboche, There is a very popular monastery in the Khumbu valley which is the oldest in the place. We can visit the place after lunch.
Day 18: Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar 6 hrs.
Travelled Distance
12 KM.
Max Altitude
3440m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Another popular Tengboche monastery setting in the lap of snowy peaks can be a great place to visit today. Trekkers also tend to rush in order to get proper hot showers but eventually, everyone ends up visiting the monastery. When we spend some time in the monastery we start walking down to the bottom of riverside then continue towards Namche uphill initially to level the elevation.
Day 19: Trek from Namche to Lukla 6-7 hrs.
Travelled Distance
20 KM.
Max Altitude
2880m.
Hotel Standard
Guest House
Meals
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
By now, we would have collected awesome memories to rejoice. With a heart full of reminiscences we descend back to Lukla where our flight to Kathmandu would be waiting for us.
Day 20: Fly back to Kathmandu-Transfer to Hotel
Travelled Distance
6 Km from Airport ( 35 minute flight)
Max Altitude
1400m.
Hotel Standard
3 Star Hotel
Meals
Breakfast
Usually, the flights to and from are completed in the early morning because of the unpredictable weather patterns in the afternoon. So we can expect to be in our hotel in Kathmandu by early afternoon. One more Spare Day: Recommended due to weather.
21: Trip Completion/Airport Transfers
Max Altitude
1400m.
Meals
Breakfast
Transfer to the airport to fly back home with heartwarming memories from the Three Passes Trek Experiences from Everest Region. Our Staff will drop you to the airport before 3 hours of your flight. Hoping to see you next time. Naturally this country, one time is not enough. See you and Good Bye…
Can't find the perfect itinerary?
Our local experts will craft a personalized trek tailored to your fitness level, schedule, and interests - at no extra cost.
Price Includes
- Airport pick up by tourist vehicle
- Welcome Dinner with Nepali culture
- 3 Night Hotel in Kathmandu with BB plan
- Guided Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley by car
- Kathmanu-Lukla-Kathmandu Flight tickets
- Domestic Airport pick/drop by car
- Trekking permit for Everest National Park
- Local permit for Pasang Lhamu RMC
- Accommodation during trek (twin sharing/single) basis.
- One Trekking Guide and Necesssry of porters for the trek
- Food for Trekking (BLD) with cup of Tea/Coffee
- Guide/Porters (Salary-Food-Insurance-Accommodation)
- Duffel bag for the porter to carry your luggage
- Trail Map and First id Kit to the Guide
Price Does Not Include
- Nepal Visa and International flight tickets
- Temple/Monasteries entrance fees (Sightseeing)
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
- Travel Insurance and personal Medication
- Cold drinks and Beverages/ Pot of drinks
- Additional Days and extra program than Itineray
- Emergency Rescue and Personal Trekking gears
- Dry/energetic food and personal toiletries
- Donation/charities/Tip for the Guide & Porters
Three Passes Trek to Everest Packing List
Head And Face
- Sun cap/Wide-brim hat
- Warm beanie (wool or fleece)
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Head Lamp (with spare batteries)
Upper Body
- Moisture-wicking base Layer Short/long sleeve)
- Insulating mid layer (fleece jacket or light down jacket)
- Waterproof & hard-shell jacket
- Anti-chafing sports bra/sports top
Lower Body
- Thermal base layer leggings
- Quick-dry trekking pants
- Waterproof rain pants
Handwear
- Lightweight inner liner gloves
- Waterproof, windproof insulated outer gloves or mittens
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots or trail runners
- Merino hiking socks(3-4 pairs) in wool
- Low/high gaiters
- Camp sandals or lightweight shoes
Backpack/Support/Sleeping Gear
- Trekking backpack (35L-60L with rain cover)
- Adjustable trekking poles
- 3-season or 4-season sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad/Mat
- Dry bags or waterproof pack liners
Uesful Infomatoin before Trip
Travel Documents and Permits
To travel to Nepal, foreign visitors need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a tourist visa (available on arrival or online), and specific regional trekking permits if heading into conservation or restricted areas. Fees range from USD 30 to USD 125 for visas depending on the duration. Carry a valid passport, Nepal visa, travel insurance, and all required trekking permits. Keep copies of important documents both on your phone and separately in your luggage.
Physical Preparation
Trekking involves several hours of walking, often on steep and uneven trails. Regular walking, hiking, and simple cardiovascular exercises before your trip will help you enjoy the trek more comfortably.
Packing and Equipments
Pack according to the season, altitude, and duration of your trek. Essential items include comfortable trekking shoes, warm layers, waterproof clothing, a day-pack, sleeping bag, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, headlamp, and personal medicines.
Altitude and Acclimatization
High-altitude trekking requires gradual ascent and proper acclimatization. Walk at a comfortable pace, drink plenty of water, avoid overexertion, and always follow your guide’s advice. Inform your guide immediately if you experience unusual symptoms.
Weather and Seasons
Mountain weather can change quickly, even during the best trekking seasons. Spring and autumn are generally popular for trekking, while summer and winter conditions vary depending on the region and altitude. Be prepared for changing weather.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Your policy should cover trekking at the altitude of your chosen route and emergency medical treatment and evacuation where necessary.
Food and Drinking Water
Meals are available at teahouses and lodges along most popular trekking routes. Drink sufficient water throughout the trek and use treated, filtered, or properly purified drinking water. Carry a water bottle along with you.
Money and Communication
Carry enough Nepalese cash for remote sections of the trek, as card and ATM facilities may not be available everywhere. Mobile networks and internet services can also become limited at higher elevations.
Local Culture & Responsible Travel
Respect local customs, traditions, religious places, and communities. Avoid unnecessary plastic waste, use designated trails, and help protect Nepal’s beautiful mountain environment.
Follow Your Guide's Advice
Your guide and trekking team are experienced in local conditions and mountain trails. Follow their recommendations regarding walking pace, acclimatization, weather, safety, and itinerary changes.
Dates & Prices
FAQs for Three Passes Trek to Everest
General Information
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for trekking, with pleasant weather and clear mountain views.
Regular walking, hiking, stair climbing, and cardiovascular exercise for 6–8 weeks before your trek can improve endurance.
Consider your fitness level, trekking experience, available time, preferred altitude, season, and interests. Our team can help you select the right itinerary. Plan well. Trek safely. Experience the Himalayas with confidence.
The Guide is recommended but depending on the route and current regulations. Some restricted areas require a licensed guide and additional permits.
Essential items include trekking boots, warm clothing, waterproof jacket, backpack, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, personal medicines, and basic toiletries.
Yes. Sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, and other equipment can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Health
AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) can occur at high elevations, especially above 2,500 meters. Headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue are common symptoms.
Ascend gradually, acclimatize properly, walk slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and smoking at altitude.
Inform your guide immediately. For mild symptoms, rest and hydrate. If symptoms become severe, especially at high altitude, descend to a lower elevation and seek medical assistance.
Weather
Weather varies greatly with altitude and season. Mountain areas can be warm and sunny during the day but very cold at night. Temperatures generally decrease by about 6°C for every 1,000 meters of altitude gained.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons, offering favorable weather, good visibility, and comfortable trekking conditions.
Yes. June–September brings rain to many trekking regions, but rain-shadow areas such as Upper Mustang and parts of Manang can remain relatively dry and suitable for trekking.
Yes. Winter trekking is possible on many routes, although higher elevations can be very cold and snowy. Proper warm clothing and suitable equipment are essential.
Yes. Mountain weather can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations. Trekkers should be prepared for rain, snow, strong winds, cold temperatures, and reduced visibility.
Trek Difficulty
Trekking difficulty varies from easy to challenging. It depends on altitude, walking hours, terrain, weather, and the chosen trekking region.
Yes. Nepal offers many beginner-friendly treks as well as challenging high-altitude adventures. We can recommend a route according to your fitness, experience, and available time.
Most Trekking days involve around 5-7 hours of walking, although some days may be shorter or longer depending on the itinerary and terrain.
Yes, Altitude can make trekking more demanding because the air contains less oxygen. Proper acclimatization and a gradual ascent are important.
Accommodation
Most popular trekking routes offer tea houses and lodges with basic private or shared rooms and shared bathrooms.
These facilities are available at most tea houses but services become more basic and limited at higher elevations. Wi-Fi and hot showers may require an additional fee, while electricity for charging devices can also be limited in remote areas.
Food and Drinka
Tea houses and lodges offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali food, Dal Bhat, noodles, pasta, soup, eggs, bread, vegetables, and other international dishes. Vegetarian and special dietary options can usually be arranged with advance notice.
Yes. Safe drinking water, tea, coffee, hot lemon, and other hot drinks are available at most tea houses. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and using filtered or purified water. Bottled water is also available in many places.
Guide and Porters
Some routes and restricted areas require a licensed guide. A guide also provides navigation, local knowledge, permit assistance, and safety support.
A porter is optional but highly recommended if you prefer to trek with a lighter day pack.
Insurance
Yes. Make sure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and helicopter evacuation.
Our guides monitor the group’s condition and coordinate with local services when necessary. Travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
