Everest Three High Passes Trek

Experience the Thrilling Adventureratingbased on 4 reviews
  • Duration20 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5555 m.
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$1495
2 - 6 paxUS$1395
7 - 10 paxUS$1345
11 - 15 paxUS$1295
16 - 20 paxUS$1245
Highlights
  • Sagarmatha National Park and its scenic splendor and myriad wildlife species
  • Historic Everest Base Camp and its views of Everest, Lhotse, and Khumbu Glacier
  • Stunning panoramic views from Kalapatthar and Gokyo Ri
  • Township of Namche Bazaarthe  & it's famed weekend market
  • The famed Sherpa community & its Buddhist culture, including the monasteries of Khumjung and Tengboche
  • Serene mountain lakes of Gokyo
  • The three high passes of Kongma La (5535 m), Cho La (5420 m), and Renjo La (5340 m)

The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes us to some of the highest mountains 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 Everest Three High Passes Trekking is a challenging one that involves three of the Himalayas' highest passes - Kongma La (5535m), Cho La (5420m), and Renjo La (5340m) - 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 Everest Three High Passes Trekking 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 (5545m) 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 thinks 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?

Additionally, you might consider the classic Everest Base Camp TrekGokyo valley Trek via Everest Base Camp, and many more beautiful packages.

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Welcome at airport and transfer to the hotel. An introduction to your trekking program then the rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation and sightseeing

  • Max. Altitude:2610m/8563ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A magical scenic flight takes us to Lukla in the morning, and from there we begin our trek with a hike to the day's first destination, Phakding.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our day starts by following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing over the Edmund Hillary suspension bridge, then heading towards Sagarmatha National Park and the checkpoint at Monjo. The path ascends markedly until it eventually leads us into Namche Bazaar, the regional capital of the Sherpa district.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A rest day to allow the body to acclimate to the high altitude conditions. Namche is perfect for the situation, as there's plenty to do in the scenic town including visiting Khunde Hospital, the local medical facility set up through Edmund Hillary's charitable work in the area, taking in the panoramas from Everest View Hotel, visiting the Sherpa Cultural Museum, or hiking up to Khumjung Valley and its monastery, complete with the display of its famous Yeti scalp.

  • Max. Altitude:3870m/12697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail leads away from Namche Bazaar through a series of small villages and a suspension bridge en route to Phunki Tenga, then climbs through a series of switchbacks and dense rhododendron forests to Tengboche. The village is famous for its monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region, and justly renowned for its long association with mountaineering expeditions to the area.

  • Max. Altitude:4410m/14469ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The day begins by descending gradually through more woodland until we cross another suspension bridge and climb steadily towards Pangboche and Sumare, the formidable presence of Ama Dablam keeping us company all the way. Mani walls and a monastery greet our arrival in Dingboche, Lhotse, Island Peak, and other mountains adding their stunning profiles to the view.

  • Max. Altitude:4730m/15518ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

This is a short & suite day of the trek. We will have a pleasant hike towards Chhukung then take lunch and relax.

  • Max. Altitude:4730m/15518ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another mandatory rest day, with hikes to Chhukung Ri, Nangar Dzong, or Dolma Ri providing ample opportunities to bask in the glorious panoramas of each viewpoint.

  • Max. Altitude:4940m/16207ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After breakfast, we will encounter the first challenging and highest pass named Kongma La. The trail will ascend gradually to Kongma La Pass 5555 m where you can have a spectacular view of the Himalaya surroundings & Khumbu glacier. Then descends all the way to Lobuche overnight. (7/8 hrs we do not have tea house in between Dingboche to Lobuche)

  • Max. Altitude:5164m/16942ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our trek reaches its climax today with the much-anticipated arrival at Everest Base Camp, truly one of the most memorable experiences in Nepal. The morning is spent traversing Khumbu Glacier and heading to Gorak Shep, where we typically pause for a well-deserved meal and the extraordinary views before heading out again for the journey's reward, our arrival at the historic base camp, temporary home through the decades to some of the most legendary figures in the annals of mountaineering. After pausing to drink in the astonishing spectacle, and perhaps view the latest expeditions mounting their challenge, we reluctantly turn around and make our way back to Gorak Shep for our night's rest.

  • Max. Altitude:4830m/15846ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Everest may not be within our reach but Kala Patthar is on hand to give added meaning to the visit via unmatched views of the entire Khumbu basin and a sense of accomplishment in scaling the peak. After returning for breakfast and retrieving our trekking gear we hit the trail once more for the hike to Dzongla.

  • Max. Altitude:4700m/15420ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The occasionally icy stretch atop Cho La makes the ascent to the pass along a deep ravine a notable achievement, more difficult than Annapurna's famed Thorong La, which is about the same height. The striking views of Ama Dablam, Baruntse and Cholatse alone make the climb to the pass worthwhile. The descent can be a tricky one if icy, and if conditions merit it we will be carrying crampons and ice-axes to facilitate our passage over the pass and down to Dragnag.

  • Max. Altitude:4790m/15715ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The hike begins along a ridgeline with glorious panoramas of the Himalayas, then trails by Ngozumpa Glacier towards Gokyo and the magical view of Dudh Kunda's turquoise waters set amidst the stunning backdrop of the surrounding peaks. Truly one of nature's most spectacular scenes.

  • Max. Altitude:4790m/15715ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

We rise early to make the climb up to Gokyo Ri, with even more astonishing panoramas of the surrounding Himalayan giants such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and many more snow-capped peaks.

  • Max. Altitude:4300m/14108ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The adventure continues as we make our way up to the rarified air of Renjo La and its superb views of the surrounding region - only our cameras can do justice to supreme scenes that mere words can never truly describe. From Renjo La we descend along a tricky trail to the valley below where the infant Bhote Koshi River runs through Yak pasturelands and alpine scenery towards the settlement of Lumde and the rustic rock walls that guides weary travelers in.

  • Max. Altitude:3440m/11286ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail descends gradually through the valley past a number of outlying settlements until it reaches the Khumbu region's trekking hub of Namche Bazaar.

  • Max. Altitude:2860m/9383ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Our final day on the trail, easing back to Lukla along the Dudhi Koshi and its suspension bridges. Once at Lukla we can finally throw off our backpacks, take a relaxing shower, and sit back to savor the heady accomplishment of making it to the foot of Everest.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

After breakfast, we take a flight to Kathmandu where you'll have enough time to savor the city's treasure's one last time before getting together for a farewell dinner with friends before departure.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs. 

    Got a question about this tour?

    Or looking for customize trip, reach out to our travel experts.

    Customize Trip

    Note

    The above itinerary is just a guideline. If you are not satisfied, please feel free to customize your own and contact us.

    Route MapDownload Map
    Everest Three High Passes Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SaturdayApr 01, 2023
    End:ThursdayApr 20, 2023
    PriceUS$1495
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:SaturdayApr 15, 2023
    End:ThursdayMay 04, 2023
    PriceUS$1495
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:TuesdayApr 25, 2023
    End:SundayMay 14, 2023
    PriceUS$1495
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the group departure dates? Aside from that, we organize private trips or any special dates you prefer. Let's talk to our local specialist now.

    Photos & Videos
    4Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Another amazing experience with Nepal trekking experts!

      Nov 2022 • Couples

      Posted on behalf of my dad:

      My son had a most remarkable birthday present for me a few months ago: a map of the Three Passes in the Khumbu region of Nepal. For decades I have been reading and dreaming about the area around Mount Everest. Frankly I never believed I would actually go there. So my sons proposal to do a trekking together came as a wonderful surprise.
      The choice of the company to assist us was easy. Last year my son and his girlfriend made a trip around Manaslu with Nepal Trekking Experts at the recommendation of one of his close friends. That proved to be an incredible journey.
      Before we left for Nepal (three weeks in November of 2022) I was in touch several times with Rajesh, the owner and manager of the company. Both by WhatsApp as well as on the phone. That all went very smoothly and effectively.
      It was, therefore, no surprise we were welcomed at the airport by Rabin, our guide and brother of Rajesh. That was the beginning of three incredible, amazing and spectacular weeks. The mountains, the scenery, the friendly Nepali and the convoys of yaks and donkeys could not have been enjoyed so much if it weren’t for the organizational skills of Rabin and Rajesh. Always on time and ‘to the point’. I have traveled a lot in my life and usually without the help of others, but here, it would not have been possible. We would have had to endure quite a lot to find a good lodge, the nicest room, to get our meals on time, to know where to go etc. The path, the route is usually easy to find, but when one has alternative options or when you have to change your plans (as I did when I didn’t feel well), it is important to be able to rely on a guide who knows the area well. I used the words “experience and wisdom” for Rabin – and they were fully deserved.
      For the first time in many years I enjoyed having “meetings”. That is when Rabin, our (in fact only ‘my’) porter Bijaya, my son and I discussed the coming day(s). I was very glad we were a group of four when we split and Rabin and my son went ‘up’ to Kalapathar and Bijaya and I went ‘down’ on an easier trail (it wasn’t due to altitude sickness – Rabin made sure we acclimatized slowly).
      After the initial payment we never did have to discuss financial matters again. That was quite comforting. Rajesh’ support didn’t stop at the end of the trek. We consulted him on other matters as well. He got us a bus ticket, advised on our unsupported trekking in the Kathmandu Valley and, generally, was a good friend to us.
      Our wonderful trekking will continue to impress me the coming years as was the excellent support from Nepal Trekking Experts. (Yes, I know this all sounds extremely positive. In this case, it is fully deserved!).

      T
      TijmenJan 17, 2023Netherlands
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Everest 3 Passes with Nepal Trekking Experts - an amazing experience and adventure!

      In September, I went to the Everest Three Passes Trek with Nepal Trekking Experts and my senior guide Bikram. To start with, from arriving at the airport in Kathmandu to dropping me off at the airport after the trek, I was delighted with Rajesh and his staff's superior service. Rajesh picked me up from the airport punctually and reliably. He welcomed me very warmly, so that I immediately felt comfortable. This feeling has continued over the next 2 days, when I was able to benefit from his real all-inclusive service. Everything necessary was perfectly organized in advance (pre-meeting, clearing up all questions, sleeping bag, duffel bag and including a sightseeing day in Kathmandu with a private driver and my guide because we could not fly to Lukla on the first scheduled day). To accompany me on my trek I got one of the most experienced guides of the agency, Bikram. Together with Sujit as a carrier we have formed a great trio. The trek itself was a unique experience and adventure. I highly recommend this route, which explores the entire Khumbu region. Passing the passes is challenging, but feasible for fit people. My guide Bikram has almost 20 years of trekking experience. He has a great knowledge of the country, people and culture and knows his way around the region perfectly. Together with my carrier, Bikram took perfect care of me, my well-being and also my health. Bikram picks out the best lodges and offers an all-round service for everything you need on the mountain. At any time I felt in good hands. In comparison to some other guides, I felt a clear class difference in terms of knowledge and experience, and I am glad that Rajesh has put one of his most experienced guides to my side. So I could not only enjoy the trek completely carefree, but also learned a lot about the country, people and culture. However, what I would like to add at this point: If you are looking for a pure entertainer as a guide, Bikram might not be the best choice, as he is a rather quiet, relaxing contemporary with a highly professional attitude towards all important things (in my opinion much more crucial and valuable). The weather in september was good, but not very good. The first week was much better than week two (though I would have expected this more otherwise). Good means, that in week one nice weather prevailed until about 11 o'clock, then many clouds drove into the valleys. In week one it rained only from the evening and at night, so this was no problem at all. In week 2, however, we had mostly only in the first two hours of the morning really good sky blue weather, then again and again it pulled very strong clouds and fog, so we were hiking the last 4 days in often miserable view for the majority of the day. For me this is an extremely crucial point as walking 2/3 of the day in fog isn’t what you are looking for when trekking in the Everest Region. Nevertheless, we had many magical and dreamlike moments and views of the 8,000m peaks around Everest, Lhotse and Manaslu. In addition, fantastic views of the beautiful mountains such as Ama Dablam, Pumori, Cholatse, Lobuche and many more. Going in pre-seasion has its advantages to really enjoy the nature and the area on many empty paths. For example, we were almost alone when we reached the EBC. Very beautiful! In my opinion trekking in the pre-season has its pros and cons and you have balance what is most important to you. Next time I'll take the hustle and bustle of the main season in order to have much better weather. Point # 2 (which I do really criticize, but I where I had more hopes): I first contacted Nepal Trekking Experts in December 2017. I, as a solo trekker, quickly chose the Everest Three Passes Trek as the route that suits me best. From the beginning I said that I would like to go with other trekkers in a small group for more fun, group interaction and many shared experiences. At the time Rajesh sounded that it will be very likely to find more trekkers, even though it's early in the season (same I heard from other trekkers who ended up going solo). Unfortunately up to my start no other trekker could be found. It is important to know that at the beginning of the season you have to be lucky enough to find like-minded trekkers, as there are not that many on the way. This is especially true for the Everest Three Passes, which is still very empty except for the EBC Trail section). Meaning, if going solo is no option for you, you have to either look for other travelers from the beginning or have some luck on the trek (which was the case for me for 2/3 of the time!). I just want to state that you cannot count on more trekkers joining your self-booked route. This is probably also due to the incredible number of available agencies which offer the same trekking routes. All in all, I can wholeheartedly recommend Nepal Trekking Experts and their offer 100%! Service, organization and the performance of all people involved, the value you get for your money is outstanding and is a clear USP in this highly competitive market. This also applies to Bikram as an incredibly experienced and professional guide! So if you are looking for a perfect well-rounded all-inclusive Trekking Agency, go with Nepal Trekking Experts! I am happy to have been traveling with them and look forward to next time!

      K
      Kai BusselmannSep 30, 2018Germany
    Call us on WhatsApp+977 9841917136OrChat with us
    Speak with a Travel Expert

    If you have any queries about a trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our professional travel experts in various countries.

    Plan Your TripJoin Our Newsletter
    • Rajesh
      RajeshPhone/WhatsApp+977 9841917136
    • Antje Hagendorf
      Antje HagendorfPhone/WhatsApp+31 6 12851405