Everest Three High Passes Trek - 16 Days

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.

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16 Days
15 - 20 KM Per Day
Hotel/Tea house/camp
Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu
Min 1 to Max 15 Pax in a group
moderate_strenuous

Highlights

  • Conquer Three Iconic Passes – Cross Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) for the ultimate trekking challenge.
  • Breathtaking Mountain Views – Enjoy panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and more.
  • Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar – Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and witness an unforgettable sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m).
  • Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri – Explore the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo and hike up Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for mesmerizing views.
  • Experience the Sherpa Culture – Stay in traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Thame, and visit ancient monasteries.
  • Thrilling Glacial Crossings – Trek across Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in the Himalayas, and other challenging ice-covered paths.
  • Diverse Landscapes – From lush forests to high-altitude alpine terrain, experience Nepal’s breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure – A less crowded alternative to the standard Everest Base Camp trek, offering a true wilderness experience.
  • Trek in Everest's Shadow – Walk in the heart of the Khumbu region, surrounded by the world’s highest peaks.
  • A True Himalayan Challenge – Perfect for adventure seekers looking for a physically demanding and rewarding trek in the Everest region.

Overview

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.

Best Time for Everest Three High Passes Trek – 15 Days

To get the most out of this trek, you ought to do it during the most favorable season of the year. For the Everest Three High Passes Trek, spring (March to May) and autumn are the best seasons (mid-September to November).

These seasons offer you the greatest vistas in the area along with clear, blue skies. You can view mountains like Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu in their prime in addition to Everest. The evenings are cool, but the days are warm. But since these are the busiest times of the year, the trails grow crowded and disorganized.

In the spring, the region’s temperature varies from 18°C to -12°C. There is also very little chance of precipitation or rain during these seasons. With reduced chance of snowfall and rainfall, the autumn months also bring with them an extremely dry climate. Between 20°C to -3°C is the typical temperature throughout the autumn season.

Food and Accommodation

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.

Outline Itinerary of Everest Three High Passes Trek

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


Not Enough Time for the Everest Three High Passes Trek? Here Are Your Best Alternatives!

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:

1. Everest View Trek – 7 Days

2. Everest Panorama Horse Ride Trek – 4 Days

3. Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return – 10 Days

Itinerary

If you want tailor-made trip or want to personalize this itinerary, just feel free to contact us. We are always there to help you to make your holiday plan. Contact us

Day 01

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2840m), then Trek to Phakding (2610m)

Altitude 2840m/2620m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After breakfast, you will take an early morning flight to Luka, the starting point of all Everest explorations. Your Three Passes Everest Trek will start after a thirty to forty-minute flight from Tribhuvan International Airport to Lukla. You will have the opportunity to take in some of Nepal's most breathtaking alpine views during your brief journey. Soon after landing, you start the short walk to Phakding. Today, you trek alongside the glacial Dudh Koshi River, traverse risky suspension bridges, and share winding hillside trails with Sherpas your route to the little settlement of Phakding. The travel will get easier and more enjoyable as you acclimatize. You will visit the nearby Rimishung Monastery in Phakding.
Day 02

Trek from Phakding to Monjo (2835m), then Namche Bazaar (3440m)

Altitude 3440m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Starting early in the morning in Phakding, you will go north along the Dudh Koshi River's banks. High suspension bridges allow you to cross and recross the river. The Sagarmatha National Park entrance is located beyond Monjo, where your hiking permits are examined. There will be ups and downs, numerous river crossings, and a breathtaking view of Mt. Thamserku from the Bengkar hamlet today. Before arriving at Namche Bazaar, you continue walking and pass through the settlement of Jorsale. The biggest trading settlement in the Khumbu is Namche, which has a bustling Saturday market. From here, one may enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, which include Everest, Lhotse, Tawache, and other peaks.
Day 03

Acclimatization and Rest Day at Namche Bazaar

Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You spend a second night in Namche to give yourself enough time to properly adjust to the altitude. You will hike up to the Everest View Hotel today to take in the breathtaking Himalayan scenery. You can also visit Hillary School and Khumjung Monastery on your way back to Namche. Other options include visiting the Dingboche Airport, traditional Sherpa communities, and the visiting centre of Sagarmatha National Park. To gain more knowledge about the Sherpa culture, you can visit the local museum. You'll stay another night at your guesthouse in Namche this evening.
Day 04

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m)

Duration 6 hours
Distance 9.2km
Altitude 3860m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Your Three High Passes Trek will proceed towards Tengboche after breakfast in Namche. You start the trek to Phunki Thanga today on a simple trail. The day will offer breathtaking views of the mountains, following a short descent and suspension bridge crossing. The wildlife, which includes Himalayan thar, musk deer, and colorful pheasants, will amaze you. To get a breathtaking view of the majestic peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest, you will have to ascend a number of slopes. The biggest monastery in the Everest region is located in Tengboche village. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Tengboche monastery to see the monks perform a religious ceremony.
Day 05

Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m)

Duration 6 hours
Distance 9km
Altitude 4410m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You start the trek of today by going downhill. You will be treated to a breathtaking sunrise panorama of the Kangtega range, Thamserku, Amadablam, Taboche, Tengboche, and Lhotse, among other mountain peaks. You will go through lush greenery with rhododendrons, birch, and other conifers. You'll pass through the towns of Deboche and Pangboche before arriving at Dingboche. You can see Pangboche Monastery and the Himalayas in greater visibility as you stroll the top Pangboche routes. Dingboche village is a picturesque, windswept community surrounded by prayer flags and chortens.
Day 06

Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4730m)

Duration 3 hours
Distance 4.1km
Altitude 4730m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Compared to the previous few days, today's journey is easier and shorter, but the mountain landscape is still breathtaking. Your path goes through the Imja Khola valley, fields with stone walls, and then into glacier moraines. The path goes on to Bibre, a location where yak herders live. From here, the magnificent Ama Dablam and the Amphu Labsa mountains are just across the valley. Imja Tse peak, with its icy and stony nature, is seen at the final moraine. Once at Chhukung, you can relax or go up to Chhukung Ri for even more breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 07

Trek from Chhukung to Lobuche (4910m) via. Kongma La Pass (5540m)

Duration 8 hours
Distance 7.7km
Altitude 5540m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
In order to reach Kongma La Pass, the highest point of the entire journey, you must start your walk extremely early today. This day will take you into the remote alpine rural areas, where there aren't any tea shops. You can choose to walk back to Bibre and trek on the trail above the Niyang Khola or can use a trail that crosses the Nuptse Glacier moraines on a hill northwest of Chhukung. There are Buddhist prayer flags and cairns at the summit of the pass. The hardest portion of today's adventure is the last descent from the pass. The trail leads to Lobuche by heading north through Khumbu Glacier after ascending the far side moraine. You'll descend gradually and maintain a steady pace to reach your destination.
Day 08

Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5140m), then Everest Base Camp (5364m)

Duration 6 hours
Distance 7.3km
Altitude 5364m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The trail today follows the Khumbu Glacier's lateral moraine. You'll be rewarded with a stunning view of Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, and Mt. Nuptse as you pass through the pyramid landmark on Everest. You reach Thangma Riju after a little climb. You may get sweeping views of the Himalayan landscape from this location. A difficult trail leads you to the summit of Changri Glacier. As you approach Gorakshep, you can see snow-capped mountains, including Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. You head to Everest Base Camp after taking a brief break. Before arriving at Everest Base Camp, the world's highest summit, you travel over rocky dunes, moraines, and streams. You will return to Gorak Shep after interacting with other hikers and climbers and capturing plenty of unforgettable photos.
Day 09

Trek from Gorak shep to Kalapatthar (5555m) then Dzongla (4830m)

Duration 5 hours
Distance 7.1km
Altitude 5555m/4830m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You set out early in the morning on your journey to Kala Patthar to witness breathtaking vistas of Mt. Everest illuminated by the first rays of dawn. You'll reach Kalapatthar after a few hours of walking, where you can sit and treat your eyes to an amazing vista of the Himalayas. The most breathtaking mountain landscape you've ever seen will greet you upon arrival. The 360-degree view from Kalapattar includes views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumo Ri, Ama Dablam, Khangtenga, Lobuche Peak, Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Glacier, and Icefalls. You will capture moments and take pictures that will endure a lifetime, leaving your mark on the world. Returning to Gorak Shep, you'll take your bags and have a late breakfast. After there, you'll head towards the town of Dzongla.
Day 10

Trek from Dzongla (4830m) to Thagnak (4750m) via Cho La Pass (5367m)

Duration 6 hours
Distance 12.5km
Altitude 4830/4750m/5367m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You'll depart for the second of your trek's three high passes after having a hearty breakfast. The hardest part of the Everest Three High Passes climb starts as it passes through spur forests and then descends to a basin. All day long, breathtaking views of some of the tallest peaks in the Himalayas will surround you, and every angle will amaze you. The paths winding through the Bergschrund are made more challenging by the steep elevation. The descent to Thagnak is not too difficult unless the rocks are covered in ice, in which case the path becomes extremely hazardous.
Day 11

Trek from Thagna to Gokyo (4750m)

Duration 4 hours
Distance 4km
Altitude 4750m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You must depart from the small community as fast as possible. You will continue your Three Pass Trek by traversing the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. As you cross the glacier, the second of the six lakes in the Gokyo Lake series appears. The third Gokyo Lake is not far distant. You'll fall in love with Gokyo, a little community hidden away along the turquoise banks of a stunning alpine lake, as soon as you arrive.
Day 12

Acclimatization in Gokyo (4750m) and Hike to Gokyo Ri (5357m)

Altitude 4750m/5357m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You may ascend the Gokyo Ri Viewpoint and take in the breathtaking views of the Everest region once you've had time to acclimatize. The round-trip ascent is rather strenuous and takes around three hours. When you get to the viewpoint, the peaks of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Nupste will be illuminated in a breathtaking golden light as sunrise breaks. Stunning views of the Ngozumpa Glacier and Cho Oyu Base Camp may be seen to the north of the fifth Gokyo Lake. Your interest, time, and effort will determine whether or not you can reach the sixth lake. You'll return to Gokyo Ri and spend the remainder of the day at leisure after fully appreciating the breathtaking scenery.
Day 13

Trek from Gokyo to Marulung (4210m) via. Renjo La Pass (5360m)

Duration 7 hours
Distance 7.4km
Altitude 4210m/5360m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You will start the trek to Renjola Pass early in the morning, using the Renjola track through Dudh Pokhari instead of the main Gokyo Valley route. This is one of the most challenging parts of the climb, but the reward at the top is a stunning 360-degree vista of Mt. Cho-Oyu and other high peaks. Situated at 5,360 meters above sea level, Renjo La offers breathtaking views from its summit. Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake may be seen with more trekking, and on your route to Lumde, you'll travel through a little valley full of enormous stones. After that, you'll take a little climb to Marulung, where you'll make a day trip stop and spend the night at a nearby trekking lodge.
Day 14

Trek from Marulung to Thame, then back to Namche Bazaar (3440m)

Duration 6 hours
Distance 16km
Altitude 3440m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
On this day You will trek alongside the Bhote Koshi River, along the path of an old salt trade route. From Marlung, you will descend to Thame, which is also a traditional path that has been utilized for years by Tibetan traders. You may take in breathtaking views of mountains like Thamserku, Katenga, Kusum Kangguru, etc. from Thame. The gompa, or monastery, is located on a hill overlooking the village. You will arrive at the tallest power plant in the world, constructed with Australian aid. After crossing a few gompas, prayer flags, Chortens, and Mani stones, you will arrive in Namche.
Day 15

Trek from Namche to Phakding (2610m), then Lukla (2840m).

Duration 9 hours
Distance 20km
Altitude 2610m/2840m
Accommodation Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The journey throughout the Everest Three High Passes ends today. The first part of your journey will involve a sharp descent as you follow the Dudh Koshi River beneath the lovely pine forests' hanging branches. After crossing the suspension bridges, the flat road becomes flatter and more visually appealing. You will be walking among breathtaking rhododendrons, passing wide grasslands, and following holy mani walls.
Day 16

Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu

Duration 45m
Distance 138km
Altitude 2800m
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast
Today, you will return to Kathmandu via a scenic flight. Scheduled flights may be canceled or delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions in Luka or other unexpected occurrences. As the small plane lifts flight, you'll be treated to an incredible overhead view of the wild terrain you traveled through. After arriving in Kathmandu and checking in at your hotel, you might be able to go shopping, depending on your arrangements for your departure.

Trip Map

Everest Three High Passes Trek

Inclusions

What's included

  • Airport transfers: Pickup and drop off.
  • Accommodation: Teahouse during the trekking.
  • Foods: Three times meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek.
  • Guide: A professional government certified and friendly trekking guide will be provided.
  • Porter: One porter for every two trekkers.
  • Permits: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Fee and Khumbu rural municipality fee.
  • Domestic Flight: Kathmandu to Lukla Two way domestic flight tickets.
  • Duffel bag and sleeping bag (should be returned after the trekking).
  • First aid medical kits.
  • All taxes and paperworks.

What's not included

  • Nepal visa fee.
  • Travel insurance (medical evacuation rescue).
  • Personal trekking gears.
  • Personal expenses like beverages, laundry, battery charges etc.

Frequently Asked Questions about Everest Three High Passes Trek - 16 Days

1.How Difficult Is It To Trek The Three Passes On Mount Everest?

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.

2.Does the Everest Three Passes Trek require any special training?

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.

3.How much time will I walk every day on average?

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.

4.When is the greatest time to trek over the three passes on Mount Everest?

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.

5.Do I require any additional permits before beginning the Everest Three Passes trek?

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.

6.Does the Everest Three Passes Trek require travel insurance?

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.

7.Are there any age restrictions or requirements for trekking the Everest Three Passes Trek?

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.

8.How can I obtain a Nepal visa?

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.

 

Travelers' Reviews

3 passes/everest base camp

Verified Purchase
5/ 5stars

3 Passes/Everest Basecamp

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.

Paris, France

Verified Purchase
5/ 5stars

Awesome trek

Great three passes trek and EBC completed in 14 days. Beautiful landscapes especially from Sunder Peak, Gokyo Ri and Chukhung Ri.

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