Everest Three High Passes Trek Overview
The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes us to some of the highest mountain passes in the world and is considered by many to be the ultimate trekking tour of the Everest region. The route incorporates some of the most popular trails through the region as well as a number of the Khumbu/Everest region's hidden gems, not to mention the wonderful opportunity to become immersed in the area's famed Sherpa culture along the way.
The High Passes Adventure in Everest is a challenging one that involves three of the Himalayas' highest passes - Kongma La (5,535 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Renjo La (5,340 meters) - each of which would present a considerable challenge in its own right — this adventure presents trekkers with three to surmount in the space of seven days! Everest Three High Passes Trek is thus the perfect choice for true adventurers with the fortitude, determination, and general fitness to tackle the region's most demanding yet rewarding trek, surrounded by four of the highest mountains in the world and some of the best mountain panoramas in all of Nepal. At Nepal Trekking Experts we love to challenge ourselves, and the Trek to Everest Three High Passes is an incomparable and unforgettable journey that meets all of our expectations — and hopefully yours.
There are multiple options for departure points, but the one we recommend is to fly into Lukla from Kathmandu, the flight in via a Twin Otter plane giving a glimpse of the towering mountains and passes waiting to be conquered.
From Lukla, we follow in the footsteps of renowned mountaineers and explorers to cross the first high pass of Kongma La before moving on to the open-air museum of climbing that Everest Base Camp (5364m) represents. Nearby Kala Patthar (5550m) provides glorious sunrise vistas of the mountains as well as breathtaking 360 panoramas of the entire region. Rather than retracing our steps traditionally, the trek moves on towards the remaining pair of high passes, reinforcing the sense of trekking across the roof of the world. Cresting Cho La leads to Gokyo (4790 m), one of the highest human settlements and known for the picturesque string of turquoise-colored lakes dotting the surrounding vales. The rest day there provides the opportunity to hike up to Gokyo Ri (5360 m) for the stunning sunrise and arguably the clearest views of Everest (8848 m) and Makalu (8485 m) to the east and Cho Oyu (8188 m) to the north. After crossing Renjo La the trail descends to the fabled Tibetan trading route running through Thame Valley, then concludes at the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar and the return leg to Lukla.
If you're in the market for a trip to Everest that ranks amongst the best treks in all of Nepal and think you can handle the challenge of one of the most consistently high-altitude trails in the world, why not contact us and let Nepal Trekking Experts put you on the road to achieving your goal?
Everest High Passes Circuit Route Difficulty
The Everest High Passes Circuit Route is an epic adventure that typically expands till 18 to 20 days, covering a distance of approximately 130 kilometers. This particular trek is challenging and there are multiple factors that adds to the difficulty level of this journey. First of all, the steep ascents, descents, and high-altitude conditions is quite demanding. Likewise, reaching the maximum altitude level at Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters) and spending most of the days above 3,000 meters, altitude is no joke during this trek. This can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness to more severe cases of altitude sickness. Moving on, the trails of this trek demand you to navigate through rocky paths, where each step requires careful placement of your feet. Additionally, you will hike anywhere from 5 to 8 hours each day, covering 10 to 15 kilometers across uneven terrain. Apart from it, you will also face several technical difficulties with high passes, climbs, mental health, psychological preparedness, and isolation.
Best Time To Trek Via Everest High Passes
The best time to trek via Everest High passes is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these times of the year, not only are the views mesmerizing but the trail and weather conditions are also favorable which makes it easier to traverse the high passes and soak in the mesmerizing beauty of the Khumbu region.
Spring is one of the most popular seasons to tackle the demanding high passes, with clearer skies and mild temperatures. This time of the year offers a magical blend of favorable weather, vibrant landscapes, and cultural experiences. Generally, the trail is covered with vibrant colors of blooms from rhododendrons, orchids, and several other wildflowers. Additionally, with the snow cleared from the path, the trail conditions are also much safer and enjoyable. Wildlife such as Himalayan pheasants, musk deer, and mountain goats are more active, adding an extra layer of excitement for nature enthusiasts.
With the stable weather conditions, dry trails, stunning views, and favorable trekking conditions, Autumn stands out as the best season to trek in. Like in Spring, the trails are still vibrant with flower blooms but this time, with wildflowers and seasonal flowers. Additionally, you will also witness similar wildlife as in Monsoon preparing for the long Winter days that are on the horizon. Additionally, Autumn is a vibrant time in the Khumbu region, with several important festivals taking place. One notable celebration is Dashain, which usually falls in late September or early October. Likewise, the Tihar celebration closely follows Dashain. Also, one of the biggest celebrations you may witness is Mani Rimdu in October. Well, this vibrant festival is celebrated at Tengboche Monastery to honor the teachings of Buddhism and the legend of Guru Rinpoche.
Permits Cost For High Altitude Passes In Everest
When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, the permit fees are included in your package. Your guide will require your passport to obtain the required permits on your behalf. You need to have two different types of trekking permits, such as:
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit - The local government of Khumbu charges NPR 3000 per person, which must be paid in person in Lukla; this permit is not available in Kathmandu.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit - This permit can be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board Office or in Monjo at the Park Entrance Gate. It costs NPR 3000 per person.
Kathmandu to Lukla flights
Just for your information, normally Lukla’s flight will be operated from Ramechhap (Manthali Airport) in peak seasons like October/November and March/April. If the airlines are too busy, then they might operate from mid-September in the fall and in May in the spring. It depends on air traffic and the rules of aviation. Ramechhap is located 132 kilometers east of Kathmandu, which takes 4-5 hours by car or van. Most people begin to drive at 2.00 am to get the earliest flight. Our package already includes the road transfer along with the flight.
Additionally, you might consider the classic Gokyo Valley Trek via Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley Trek, Everest View Trek, and many more beautiful packages.
How can I book the High Passes Adventure in Everest?
To book your trek with us, you have to send a 10% deposit of the total cost. Please also forward a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and full flight details if and when available. For your convenience, you may forward the deposit online through our website. It is completely safe, and as soon as you make it, you will get an automatic receipt in your inbox. The rest of the payment can be paid upon arrival.