The Everest Three High Passes Trek is an ultimate adventure in the Everest region, covering three challenging passes: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This trek combines breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu with visits to iconic landmarks like Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Kala Patthar.
Everest Three high Passes trek – 16 Days in the Everest region is quite well-known. The trek to Everest Three Passes combines well-known Everest trails with undiscovered treasures in the Khumbu area. This journey is one of the most adventurous and challenging in the Khumbu region.
Along with reaching Everest Base Camp, you will also cross the Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass, the three highest passes in the Khumbu region. You will quickly realize why the Everest Three Passes trek is such an incredible experience as your route follows the Dudh Koshi river’s meandering flow.
You will come across the picturesque Sherpa village of Marlung and the spiritual village, Thame on the way and the serene and unscathed Nangpa La Valley. Views of Ama Dablam, Pumori, Cholatse, Khumbutse, Khumbu, and Nuptse, and finally the Top of the World Everest along with a Great view of Mountains above 8000 meters.
The trekking route goes past Sherpa communities, giving tourists the chance to learn about their unique customs and cultures. On this route, you’ll be able to see prayer wheels, flags, monuments, and Buddhist monasteries.
While trekking the Everest Three Passes, you will stay the night in the ancient communities of the friendly Sherpa people. It’s also essential to trek with an experienced guide because of how unreachable the area is.
Because the Everest Three High Passes journey requires a longer walk or climb in a remote and isolated terrain that rises above 5,500 meters, it is regarded as difficult. To participate in the Everest High Passes excursion you need to be in great physical condition.
You will be able to choose from a wide variety of tea house menu items that are prepared and served by the native people while on the journey. The most popular foods include rice, noodles, breads, egg dishes, curries, soups, dumplings, and so forth. Even some of the teahouses and restaurants serve Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and continental cuisine.
Besides from Tsampa, you can sample yak meat and a variety of other indigenous Tibetan and Sherpa delicacies along the trek. Breakfast options include vegetable dishes and a range of hot beverages, French toast with peanut butter, jam and honey, corn flakes, hash browns, fried eggs, scrambled and boiled eggs, pancakes, Tibetan bread and oatmeal.
On the mountain, lodging is provided by tea houses. The accommodations at the local teahouses and guesthouses on the Everest Base Camp Trek are simple and standard. Typically, the rooms include simply two or three single beds, comfortable mattresses, pillows, and warm, inviting blankets. Adjacent restrooms are also provided.
However, Namche and Dingboche offer excellent lodging options. These settlements in the Himalayas have embraced modernity and constructed a few luxurious hotels. At higher altitudes, facilities could be more basic, and sharing restrooms with other hikers might be necessary.
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is an extraordinary adventure that combines breathtaking mountain views with a challenging trekking experience. Over 16 days, trekkers cross three iconic high-altitude passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—each offering its own unique set of challenges and rewards. The route takes you deep into the heart of the Everest region, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other towering peaks, while also providing a chance to immerse yourself in Sherpa culture and the natural beauty of the Himalayan wilderness.
The trek is not for the faint of heart; it requires a high level of physical endurance and mental fortitude. In addition to the three high passes, trekkers will visit Everest Base Camp and the famous Gokyo Lakes, both of which are among the most iconic locations in the Himalayas. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages, ancient monasteries, and rugged landscapes that make this trek one of the most diverse and rewarding in the region.
Despite its demanding nature, the Everest Three High Passes Trek offers an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. The combination of high-altitude challenges, awe-inspiring vistas, and cultural immersion creates an experience that is truly unique. For seasoned trekkers looking to push their limits while exploring the Everest region in its most untouched form, this trek is the ultimate Himalayan journey, leaving trekkers with memories and a sense of achievement that will last a lifetime.
The Perfect Window to Conquer Nepal’s Ultimate High-Altitude Challenge
Timing your trek right can make all the difference between a tough hike and an unforgettable journey. The Everest Three High Passes Trek demands the clearest skies, the safest trails, and the most breathtaking views—so knowing when to go is key.
Ideal Seasons: Autumn (September to November) & Spring (March to May)
Autumn — The Golden Trekking Season
After the monsoon rains wash the mountains clean, autumn brings crisp, clear air and stunning blue skies. This is when Everest and the three passes show their most dramatic faces—perfect for photographers, climbers, and adventure seekers alike. Temperatures are comfortable during the day, with cool nights that prepare you well for high passes.
Spring — When the Himalayas Bloom
Spring unveils a vibrant tapestry of rhododendron forests in full bloom along the lower trails, paired with warming weather that melts away winter’s grip. This season offers a unique blend of floral beauty and snow-capped peaks. Clear mornings and mild afternoons make trekking challenging passes more enjoyable.
Winter and Monsoon: For the Experienced Only
Winter (December to February) brings harsher cold and snow, making the passes treacherous. The monsoon season (June to August) means heavy rains, slippery trails, and limited visibility—less ideal for safety and views.
This is one of Nepal’s most physically and mentally demanding treks. Preparation is essential—not optional.
Physical Preparation
Cardio Training:
You’ll be hiking 6–9 hours a day at high altitudes. Train with running, cycling, hiking, or stair climbing at least 3–4 times a week for several months in advance.
Strength Training:
Focus on leg and core strength with squats, lunges, step-ups, and weighted backpack training to mimic uphill climbs.
Endurance & Altitude Simulation:
Practice multi-day hikes with elevation gain if possible. If you live near hills or high terrain, simulate back-to-back trekking days.
Mental Preparation
Build Patience & Endurance:
Some days will be long, cold, and tough. Mentally prepare for fatigue, minimal comforts, and slow, deliberate movement.
Embrace Uncertainty:
The weather can change quickly. Be ready to adapt your expectations and stay resilient when plans shift.
Mindfulness & Positivity:
Practice techniques like breathwork, journaling, or meditation to stay grounded during the trek. A positive mindset is your most valuable gear.
Prepared in body. Steady in mind. Guided by experience.
That’s how you conquer the Three Passes—with Dream Himalayas Adventures.
Because only a true partner can guide you through the toughest paths and the most triumphant moments.
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is not just a trek—it’s the ultimate Everest circuit, crossing Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). It’s one of Nepal’s most demanding routes, but also one of the most awe-inspiring.
When the journey tests your limits, who you choose to trek with becomes everything.
1. We Know These Passes Like Our Pulse
Dream Himalaya’s guides have walked these high routes hundreds of times. With decades of experience, detailed local knowledge, and an understanding of the ever-changing mountain climate, we deliver a safe and seamless experience—even through the most rugged terrain.
2. Challenging, But Never Chaotic
This trek involves complex logistics, demanding ascents, and harsh conditions. With us, there’s no guesswork or surprises. Every route, acclimatization day, and safety check is planned with precision and care—so your focus stays on the beauty, not the burden.
3. More Than Everest: A 360° Himalayan Experience
Unlike standard EBC treks, this route connects you to remote Sherpa villages, untouched valleys, majestic passes, glacial lakes, and panoramic viewpoints like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar. We ensure you don’t just see Everest—you understand it from every angle.
4. High-Altitude Expertise You Can Count On
Three passes over 5,000m demand serious altitude management. Our team is altitude-trained, medically prepared, and emotionally supportive, ensuring you trek with confidence and control.
5. Authenticity in Every Step
We go beyond trekking. With Dream Himalaya, you’ll connect with monks in Tengboche, sip butter tea with locals in Thame, and walk in the footprints of mountaineering legends. This is not tourism—it’s transformation.
6. Designed for Impact—Not Just Instagram
We believe in low-impact, community-based trekking. Our operations support local livelihoods, empower porters, and promote sustainable exploration, so your adventure uplifts more than just your soul.
This is not just a hike—it’s a Himalayan rite of passage.
Let Dream Himalaya Adventures guide your boldest journey yet.
Because you’re not here to walk the easy road. You’re here to conquer the highest paths.
Day 01: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840m), then Trek to Phakding (2610m)
Day 02: Trek from Phakding to Monjo (2835m), then Namche Bazaar (3440m)
Day 03: Acclimatization and Rest Day at Namche Bazaar
Day 04: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m)
Day 05: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m)
Day 06: Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4730m)
Day 07: Trek from Chhukung to Lobuche (4910m) via. Kongma La Pass (5540m)
Day 08: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5140m), then Everest Base Camp (5364m)
Day 09: Trek from Gorak shep to Kalapatthar (5555m) then Dzongla (4830m)
Day 10: Trek from Dzongla (4830m) to Thagnak (4750m) via Cho La Pass (5367m)
Day 11: Trek from Thagna to Gokyo (4750m)
Day 12: Acclimatization in Gokyo (4750m) and Hike to Gokyo Ri (5357m)
Day 13: Trek from Gokyo to Marulung (4210m) via. Renjo La Pass (5360m)
Day 14: Trek from Marulung to Thame, then back to Namche Bazaar (3440m)
Day 15: Trek from Namche to Phakding (2610m), then Lukla (2840m)
Day 16: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is perfect for adventure seekers with plenty of time and trekking experience. But what if you have less time, a moderate fitness level, or just want a different experience? Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with these equally stunning alternatives:
The high heights, sharp ascents and descents, and unpredictable weather make the Everest Three Passes Trek difficult. Trekkers should have previous trekking experience, be in good physical shape, and be mentally prepared.
Exercise is really helpful since the fitter you are, the more enjoyable the walk will be. You can better prepare for the obstacles with aerobic conditioning, endurance training, and previous hiking experience. But if you're in good shape, you ought to be able to finish the walk.
Walking 10 to 14 kilometers a day should take you 5 to 7 hours a day on average. The distance you will cover will be less because of the slower speed at higher elevations, but you will still be walking for five to seven hours when you reach 3500 meters.
Pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (late September to December) are the ideal times to undertake the Everest High Passes Trek. Although the trek may also be completed in February and early September, these months are the finest for it.
For the Everest Three Passes Trek, yes, permits are required. The entry permits for Sagarmatha National Park and the Khumbu Rural Municipality permits are the most important ones.
Obtaining travel insurance is necessary. With the correct travel insurance, you can be protected against a variety of risks, including serious alpine illness, theft, property damage, and medical emergencies.
The Everest Three Passes Trek has no set age restriction. On the other hand, participants ought to be fit and in good health. This walk is not advised for those over seventy and youngsters under sixteen.
At Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport and other Nepali border crossing locations, the majority of visitors can receive a tourist visa upon arrival. A local Nepali embassy should be contacted by certain nationals, as they may not be able to obtain an on-arrival visa.
Dream Himalayas Trek and Expeditions is an exceptional company that made my 3 Passes and Everest Base camp very memorable. They made the entire trek streamlined by arranging my rental equipment, transportation, and lodging. My guide Lok was very accommodating and experienced in the Khumbu region. Absolutely loved everyday! Highly recommend booking with this company.
Great three passes trek and EBC completed in 14 days. Beautiful landscapes especially from Sunder Peak, Gokyo Ri and Chukhung Ri.
