Everest Three High Passes Trek

Experience the Thrilling Adventureratingbased on 17 reviews
  • Duration20 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5550 meters/ 18209 feet.
  • Starts Lukla
  • Ends Lukla
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$1690
2 - 6 paxUS$1490
7 - 10 paxUS$1390
11 - 15 paxUS$1295
16 - 20 paxUS$1245
Everest Three High Passes Trek 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 Bazar & 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 meters)

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 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 (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?

Permits Cost on Everest's Three High Passes Trek

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.

Useful Information

Tips for Everest Three Passes Trekking Preparation:

  • Train regularly, such as in cardio, gym, trail run, trekking, or hiking with a backpack, before visiting Everest Three Passes Trek.
  • Choose a professional organizer along with a local guide who has deep knowledge, good English—speaking, experience, a good decision-maker, and has a positive attitude.
  • Trek slowly and steadily.
  • Be hydrated all the time (drink 3—4 liters of water every day).
  • Hike higher, sleep lower.
  • Well-acclimatize (do not rush your itinerary).
  • Balancing meals.
  • Proper gear.
  • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol during the ascent.
  • Hire a porter to carry your backpacks.
  • The Lukla flight may often be delayed or canceled due to weather, we recommend having flexibility on your holiday.
  • In the worst-case scenario, a helicopter might be available. It costs more or less 500 USD per person each way. Please prepare for additional costs in case of an emergency.
  • To get out of Lukla, you may also walk a day to Paiya/Tham Danda and ride a jeep to Kathmandu via Salleri. The road from Paiya/Tham Danda to Salleri is bumpy. It may take three days in total. But keep in mind that the drive might be long and unpleasant. In the same way, you can reach Lukla from Kathmandu. The Salleri to Tham Danda/Paiya road conditions will depend on the season you are trekking.
  • In the peak season (mid-March to mid-May and mid-September to November, depending on traffic), the Lukla flight will operate from Ramechhap Airport.
  • Book your Everest Three High Passes Trek a few months in advance to secure a professional guide and Lukla flight.

Everest Three High Passes Trekking Accommodation:

Tea house hotels are plentiful within the infamous Everest Region of Nepal, with a range of quality available to you depending on your preference and needs. At lower elevations, you can choose more fully equipped tea houses with electricity, wifi, and en suite bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets. There are also more rustic, basic tea houses available, especially at higher elevations, that have simple rooms (a room will have two beds) and basic services. Bathrooms might be shared and have a squat-style toilet. If you are solo and trekking in peak season, you may need to share a room as per availability in the higher altitude areas. At these tea houses, you can pay a small fee for services such as wifi and hot showers. We provide you with a clean, -20°C sleeping bag to keep you cozy and warm.

Food on Everest's Three High Passes Trek:

Food in the Everest Region of Nepal is delicious and plentiful. Along the well-loved and well-traveled route to Everest Base Camp, there are many tea houses offering a range of options to suit your preferences.

Breakfast- You can enjoy local chapati bread or Tibetan bread with curry or go for more familiar eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. This trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but if you have any other dietary restrictions, you can let us know, and your guide will communicate with the kitchen staff.

Lunch & Dinner- You can choose from a variety of local dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills!), fried rice or noodles, Mo Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), spring rolls, or western dishes like burgers, pasta, pizza, and potatoes.

Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes dinner in Kathmandu before you leave for your trek and three meals a day (with tea or coffee) every day of the trek, including travel days. If you'd like, you can purchase extra snacks, desserts, or fancy coffees when they're available.

Telephone:

Most tea houses have phone service and mobile reception; however, due to the nature of being in the mountains, it can be unpredictable. If you would like, you can purchase a data SIM card in Kathmandu before you depart. NCELL is a recommended provider that offers 3G internet services in the Everest region.

Internet:

Many tea houses have wifi to purchase for around 3-5 dollars per hour, which is paid in local Nepali rupees. Please be aware that internet services may not be completely reliable due to weather and other issues.

Battery Charging:

Despite trekking deep into the Himalayas, most of the tea houses have either electricity or solar power. Depending on the tea house, you might be able to charge your devices in your rooms. Otherwise, you can pay a few dollars (paid in local rupees) to charge your battery in the main dining hall. Carrying a power bank is recommended during your trek in the Everest region.

Transportation:

All transportation fees and arrangements are included in your trekking package when you book with Nepal Trekking Experts. To commence your journey, you will catch a stunningly scenic domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (30 minutes). This is likely where you will begin and end your Everest journey. If you are interested in shortening your on-foot trekking time or adding on a new experience, we can arrange for a helicopter to pick you up from Gorakshep/Gokyo and take you back either to Lukla for $500 or all the way to Kathmandu for $1000 per person by sharing.

Porter:

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking at high altitudes, then we would recommend having a porter in the Everest region carry your bag. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you book your trek.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation: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:3 star hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation.

  • Max. Altitude:2610m/8563ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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 and 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. 

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    Note

    The above itinerary is just a guideline. If you are not satisfied, please feel free to customize your own and contact us. (We provide city tours on request)

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
    • All necessary trekking permits for Sagarmatha National Park, Pasang Lahmo Rural Municipality Trek Card, etc.
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • Fresh fruit each day, if and when available
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency t-shirt, trekking map, sleeping bag
    • Return flights between Kathmandu and Lukla
    • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax (VAT)
    • Certificate of achievement, if needed
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu 
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city. (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, Wifi, etc.
    • Tip to staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Everest Three High Passes Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SundayDec 15, 2024
    End:FridayJan 03, 2025
    PriceUS$1690
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:WednesdayDec 25, 2024
    End:MondayJan 13, 2025
    PriceUS$1690
    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
    FAQs for Everest Three High Passes Trek
    • The Everest Three High Passes Trek is located east of Kathmandu, which lies in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal.

    •  The height of Kongma La Pass is 5535 meters (18159 feet).

    • The Renjo La Pass stands at 5360 meters (17585 feet) above sea level.

    • The height of Cho La Pass is 5420 meters (17782 feet).

    • The Lukla flight costs are as per the below:

      •  For Nepalese citizens– Rs 6500 per person each way
      •  For Indian Citizens – USD 130 per person each way
      •  For foreigners – USD 216 per person each way
    • The Everest Base Camp's height is 5364 meters (17598 feet) above sea level.

    • The elevation of Kala Patthar is 5550 meters (18209 feet).

    • The height of Mt. Everest is 8849 meters (29032 feet).

    • The height of Chhukung Ri is 5546 meters (18196 feet).

    • You can expect a maximum of 20°C the first couple of days and -15°C during the night at high altitudes.

    • The best time for the Everest 3 High Passes Trek is September to November and March to May.

    • The Everest Three Passes Trek is 150 Km (93 miles) and takes 15 to 20 days.

    • The Everest Three High Passes Trek costs 1200-2000 USD. It depends on the number of days, group size, and the service you are looking for.

    • The Everest Three Passes trek is considered a strenuous trek in Nepal due to its long-distance walking at a high altitude for several days.

    • Yes, there is also an option to drive, but it takes a long drive and a few more days to trek.

    • Yes, you can do a solo trek, but Nepal Trekking Experts suggest you hire at least a guide or a porter for safety reasons and an unforgettable experience.

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    17Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Monsoon Season Everest 3 High Passes Trek

      Go with Nepal Trekking Experts. You won’t regret it.

      Did a monsoon season (early June) Everest Three High Passes trek with Prakash (my guide) & had the best time.

      I previously went with another tour group to do the Annapurna Circuit but ended up switching because the customer service & information didn’t compare to Rajesh & his amazing company. From SAFETY, planning, packing, transportation, logistics, food, & shelter; Rajesh patiently walked me through the two week adventure & picked a specialized guide just for me. Most importantly, Rajesh was extremely transparent throughout the whole process & did not make me feel pressured to commit whatsoever.

      Rajesh & Prakash kept me safe, fed, & happy the entire way through with walking poles & comfortable tea houses with friendly locals. After having such a great experience & quickly adapting transportation plans during the Monsoon season, I couldn’t thank them enough.

      Prakash is a great guide that knows the routes by heart, manages the transportation logistics like a pro, & even became a good friend along the way. Prakash has done the 3 passes trek over 40 times, with many more treks done during Monsoon season. If you want to feel safe, he’s your guy.

      K
      Kendall YAug 04, 2024United States
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Amazing time trekking in the Himalayas!

      When we arrived at Kathmandu we were unsure of what company to go through to complete a hike in the Himalayas. We talked to a few companies but after speaking with Rajesh we felt that Nepal Trekking Experts are many levels above other companies we came across.

      Our guide, Amit was great and really took care of us on the Three Passes trek. We are very grateful to have had him as our guide.

      Nepal Trekking Experts organised everything perfectly. Transport to the hike, food, accomodation, permits and anything else relevant to the hike was covered for our 17 day package.

      We would 100% go with Nepal Trekking Experts again for another hike in Nepal. I can’t recommend them enough.

      J
      Jake DMay 12, 2024New Zealand
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