Everest Three Pass Trek

18 Days

The Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding adventures in Nepal. Over seventeen days, you cross the three highest trekking passes of the Khumbu—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m)—while visiting Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes. This journey takes you deep into Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, and the most iconic Himalayan landscapes.

  • 2 - 10
  • Flight & Car
  • 3 Times a day (BLD) during trekking days
  • English
  • Kala Patthar (5,545m)
  • Tea Houses, 3 star Hotel

Overview

The Everest Three Pass Trek is the most adventurous trekking route in the Khumbu region, designed for trekkers who want a complete Everest experience. In 17 days, you will cross the three highest and most scenic passes of the region — Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m) — while also visiting Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes.

Unlike the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, this journey takes you on a circular route, allowing you to explore hidden valleys, remote trails, and panoramic viewpoints that few trekkers reach. Along the way, you will stay in traditional Sherpa villages, visit ancient monasteries, and walk through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This trek is physically challenging because of the high altitude and long days, but it is also one of the most rewarding adventures in Nepal. With proper acclimatization, professional guides, and steady preparation, the Everest Three Pass Trek offers unforgettable landscapes, authentic Himalayan culture, and the closest views of the world’s highest peaks.

Everest Three High Pass Trek Highlights

  • Cross three high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La
  • Visit Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for the closest views of Mount Everest
  • Explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for panoramic mountain views
  • Walk through Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and colorful markets
  • Experience Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Adventure, challenge, and beauty in one trek

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Arrival in Kathmandu

    You arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our team welcomes you and transfers you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your flight. In the evening, there will be a short briefing about the trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

    Kathmandu Nepal tour for seniors
    3 Stars Hotel
  • Day
    02

    Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

    A scenic 35-minute flight takes you to Lukla. You start trekking through pine forests and small villages before reaching Phakding by the riverside.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    03

    Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

    The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, you climb to Namche Bazaar, the main trading town of the Khumbu.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    04

    Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar

    Rest day for altitude adjustment. Short hikes to Everest View Hotel or Syangboche provide stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    05

    Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)

    Climb through rhododendron forests with mountain views. Arrive in Tengboche, famous for its monastery with evening prayers.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    06

    Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche

    The trail descends and then gradually climbs to Dingboche, a village in a broad valley with stone-walled fields and great views of Ama Dablam.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    07

    Acclimatization in Dingboche

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    08

    Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung

    A short trek deeper into the Imja Valley leads you to Chhukung, where you prepare for the first high pass.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    09

    Cross Kongma La Pass and Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)

    A tough climb over Kongma La Pass with amazing mountain scenery. Descend carefully and continue to Lobuche.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    10

    Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,164m) and Visit Everest Base Camp

    Walk along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep. From here, trek to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorakshep for the night.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    11

    Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)

    Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for the best sunrise view of Mount Everest. Descend and continue trekking to Dzongla.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    12

    Cross Cho La Pass and Trek to Thangnak (4,700m)

    A challenging day crossing Cho La Pass over rocky trails and a glacier. Reach Thangnak for the night.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    13

    Trek from Thangnak to Gokyo

    Walk across the Ngozumpa Glacier to reach Gokyo village, beside the turquoise Gokyo Lakes.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    14

    Climb Gokyo Ri and Cross Renjo La Pass to Marlung (4,210m)

    Early morning climb to Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. Then cross Renjo La Pass and descend to Marlung.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    15

    Trek from Marlung to Namche Bazaar

    Descend along the Bhote Koshi River through Sherpa villages until you reach Namche again.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
    Tea House
  • Day
    16

    Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

    Retrace your steps and return to Lukla. Celebrate your last night in the mountains.

    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Day
    17

    Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

    Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel and free time in the city.

    Breakfast + Lunch
    3 Stars Hotel
  • Day
    18

    Departure from Kathmandu

    This is the last day here in Kathmandu. As per your flight schedule, we will drop you off at the airport

    Breakfast

Cost Includes

  • Local transfers for your international flights (arrival & departure)
  • Local transfers for your domestic flights
  • Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu flights
  • Professional trekking guide (16 days)
  • Porter service (15 days, 1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and local permits
  • 2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu (twin sharing, breakfast included)
  • 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners during the trek

Cost Excludes

  • International Airfare / Nepal Visa
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (laundry, hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks, etc.)
  • Travel insurance that covers trekking above 5,000m, including emergency helicopter rescue
  • Tips for the guide and porter
  • Gear or equipment rental

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Packing list for Everest Three Pass Trek

Good trekking boots and warm socks

Sleeping bag (four-season)

Warm jacket, thermal layers, and gloves

Trekking poles

Headlamp and spare batteries

Sunglasses and sunscreen

Water bottle and purification tablets

Personal medicines and first-aid kit

Know before you go to Everest Three Pass Trek

Accommodation: You will stay in tea houses along the trek. Rooms are basic with twin sharing beds. In Kathmandu, you stay in a comfortable hotel.

Food: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during the trek. Tea houses serve Nepali and international dishes like dal bhat, noodles, soups, and pancakes.

Guide & Porter: A professional English-speaking guide will lead the trek. One porter carries luggage for two trekkers (around 20–25 kg in total).

Difficulty: The Everest Three Pass Trek is challenging. Good fitness and some trekking experience are required.

Altitude: You cross passes above 5,000 meters. Acclimatization days are included to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

FAQs for Everest Three Pass Trek

How difficult is the Everest Three Pass Trek?

It is one of the most challenging treks in the Everest region because of its length, altitude, and high passes. Strong fitness is needed.

What is the best time for the Everest Three Pass Trek?

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons with clear skies and stable weather.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Insurance that covers trekking up to 6,000m and emergency helicopter evacuation is strongly recommended.

Is acclimatization included in the itinerary?

Yes, extra days in Namche and Dingboche are included for altitude adjustment.

Can beginners do this trek?

It is not recommended for first-time trekkers. Previous trekking experience at high altitude is helpful.