The Everest Three Passes Trek offers breathtaking views of Everest and surrounding peaks, including Lhotse and Makalu. It challenges trekkers with three high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. Highlights include the stunning Gokyo Lakes
Everest Three High Passes Trek
Trip Fact
- DestinationNepal
- Durations22 Days
- Trip DifficultyChallenging
- ActivitiesTrekking
- AccommodationHotels / Teahouses
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Mx.altitude5545m.
- VehicleCar / Flight
- Group SizeMin. 2 Pax
Everest Three High Passes Trek Highlights
- Breathtaking Views of Mount Everest and Surrounding Peaks
- Crossing Three High Passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La
- Gokyo Lakes and the View from Gokyo Ri
- Cultural Experience in Sherpa Villages
- Adventure of Glacier Crossings and Rugged Terrain
- Less Crowded Trails for a More Solitary Experience
- Diverse Wildlife and Flora in Sagarmatha National Park
- Challenging Yet Rewarding Trekking Adventure
Overview
Experience journeying across the captivating three high passes in the Everest region of Nepal in one setting! Everest Three High Passes Trek is an adventure that lets you comprehensively scale three high passes in Khumbu.
The three stunning high passes, Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass, are spectacular viewpoints in the Everest region. Crossing them will be like traversing along a celestial terrain enveloped in snow. It is one of the most exciting journeys with the best views of mountains and cerulean glaciers. Walking across the icy landscape of the high passes presents a thrilling exhilaration that only comes with this challenge. You'll face the high elevations and the rocky terrains as two main challenges on the Everest High Passes Trek. The mountains' grand landscapes and snow-covered terrains present a challenge, unlike anything you have experienced. The journey is worth all the challenging aspects because the views from all these passes are fantastic! Further, an all-encompassing panorama of landscapes and nearby ivory peaks from the top of these passes makes it a worthwhile experience!
The Everest High Passes Trek includes Everest Base Camp with a hike to Kala Patthar, crossing three monumental high passes, and climbing up to the Gokyo Ri. It takes you along a less-traveled trail to the Everest Base Camp following Kongma La Pass. You would be exposed to giant Himalayas like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and many more! The impressive sights of the mountains are genuinely prepossessing to look at. You will enjoy the unique taste of nature and culture throughout the trek as you go to far-off ethnic settlements. This way, you are offered an opportunity to look closely at the authentic Sherpa traditions and rituals. Moreover, the vibrant and dainty villages, monasteries, chortens, and gumbas across the journey will enhance your trekking experience.
Escape Himalaya lets you experience this ostentatious trek adventure of safely crossing three passes of Nepal. Meanwhile, interacting with the locals and traversing the high Himalayan terrains makes it mesmerizing. With azure lakes, beautiful sceneries, snowy landscapes, ethnic villages, and high passes, the Everest Three High Passes Trek is an adventure like never before. If you are looking for alternate packages for this trip, you can do the Everest Chola Pass Trek. Likewise, you can also go on a Gokyo Lake Trek with Renjo La Pass. There is much more to introduce yourself with trekking in the Himalayas. We can make it a remarkable experience if you want to have it as you have wished. So join us for an adventure of a lifetime!
Best Time For Everest Three Passes Trek
The best time for the Everest Three Passes Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather conditions, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall. Trekking during spring means you'll experience mild temperatures and stunning views of blooming rhododendrons in lower altitudes, while higher elevations offer crisp weather and clear visibility of the towering peaks. Autumn is equally ideal, with crisp, dry days and minimal cloud cover, providing the perfect conditions for trekking through the high passes.
During these months, you’ll also avoid the extreme cold of winter (December to February), when temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher altitudes, making the trek much more challenging. The summer monsoon (June to August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rain, which can make the trails slippery and increase the risk of landslides. Therefore, spring and autumn are considered the prime trekking seasons.
Physical Fitness for Three Passes
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a physically demanding journey that requires solid physical fitness. Endurance is crucial, as you'll be trekking long hours each day, often between 6 to 8 hours. Good cardiovascular fitness will help you manage the sustained effort over multiple days. Strength in your legs is essential for the steep ascents and descents, especially when crossing the high passes, like Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
Additionally, stamina to adapt to high altitudes is key. The trek takes you above 5,500 meters (18,000 feet), where oxygen levels are lower, so physical fitness aids in better acclimatization and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Finally, mental toughness is essential for enduring the challenging terrain, weather, and the demanding nature of the trek. Training with cardio, strength exercises, and hiking on varied terrain will ensure you're physically prepared for this incredible adventure.
Why Choose Everest Three Passes Trekking
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure, offering breathtaking views of Everest and surrounding peaks, including Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. It takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged alpine terrain, and requires crossing three high passes Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La each providing a unique challenge and sense of achievement. Along the way, you'll experience the rich culture of Sherpa villages, including Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions and Buddhist practices. The trek is less crowded than the Everest Base Camp route, offering a more remote and peaceful experience. With stunning scenery, physical challenges, and cultural exploration, the Everest Three Passes Trek is the perfect choice for trekkers seeking an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Highest Views This Trip
The Everest Three Passes Trek offers some of the most spectacular mountain views in the world. Trekking through high passes like Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The trek also offers stunning views of Ama Dablam, the dramatic Khumbu Icefall, and Island Peak. With its diverse landscapes, rugged terrain, and unbeatable panoramas, this trek provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Everest region, making it an unforgettable adventure for avid trekkers and mountain enthusiasts.
About Lukla Airport
Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are the primary gateway for trekkers heading to the Everest region, offering a quick yet thrilling way to begin the adventure to Everest Base Camp. The flight typically lasts around 25-30 minutes and covers the 138-kilometer distance between Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu and Tenzing-Hillary Airport (LUA) in Lukla, one of the most exciting and challenging airports in the world, known for its steep, short runway nestled in the mountains.
Three main airlines serve this route Tara Airlines, Summit Airlines, and Sita Air. These flights generally depart in the morning, with the first flights around 6:00 AM, and typically run until 10:00 AM. However, due to the unpredictable weather conditions in the Himalayas, flights can often be delayed or canceled, particularly in winter and during the monsoon season. It’s important to allow for flexibility in your schedule and have contingency plans in case of flight disruptions.
Weight Limit For Lukla Flight
The weight limit for flights from Kathmandu to Lukla is typically 15 kilograms (33 pounds) per person for checked luggage. This limit is strictly enforced by the airlines due to the small size of the aircraft and the limited cargo capacity. Passengers are allowed to carry additional weight in the form of hand luggage, but this is usually restricted to 5 kilograms (11 pounds). If you exceed the weight limit, you may be required to pay additional fees or arrange for the excess baggage to be sent by another means, such as via a porter or a cargo flight.
Preparing for the flight to Lukla requires careful attention to weight limits, Airlines said only 15kg for each person including hand carry bag as excess luggage can pay extra charges, making it essential to pack efficiently.
Detail Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing Tour and Prepare for the Trek
Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,652m/8,699ft).Walking Distance: 8 km, Duration: 3 Hours
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft). Walking Distance: 10-12 km, Duration: 6 Hours
Namche Bazaar and Everest View Hotel Hike (3,440m/11,283ft). Walking Distance: 8 km, Duration: 4 Hours
Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft). Walking Distance: 10 to 11 km, Duration: 6 Hours
Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,464ft). Walking Distance: 11 to 12 km, Duration: 6 Hours
Trek to Chhukung (4,700m/15,416ft). Walking Distance: 4.5 km, Duration: 2 Hours
Hiking to Chhukung Ri (5,540m/18,17ft), Duration: 6 Hours
Trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,104ft) via Kongma La Pass (5,335m/17,498ft). Walking Distance: 10-11 km, Duration: 7-8 Hours
Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft) and Return to Gorekshep (5,181m/16,994ft), Duration: 8 Hours
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,188ft) – Gorekshep and Trek to Dzongla (4,830m/15,840ft). Walking Distance: 13 to 14 km, Duration: 7 Hours
Trek to Dragnak/Thangnak (4,700m/15,415ft) via Chola Pass (5,420m/17,780ft). Walking Distance: 10 km, Duration: 7 Hours
Trek to Gokyo Lakes (4,790m/15,710ft), Walking Distance: 6 km, Duration: 3 Hours
Hiking to Gokyo Ri (5,483m/19,083ft) and Back to Gokyo Lake. Walking Distance: 4km, Duration: 3-4 Hours
Trek to Lunden (4,300m/14,104ft) via Renjo La Pass (5,340m/17,843ft). Walking Distance: 11 km, Duration: 7 Hours
Trek to Thame (3,800m/13,464ft), Duration: 4 Hours
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft). Walking Distance: 9.5 km, Duration: 4 Hours
Trek to Lukla (2,800m/9,184ft). Walking Distance: 18 to 19 km, Duration: 7 Hours
Fly back to Kathmandu
Leisure/Reserve Day
Farewell
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- All ground (airport/hotel) transfers by private vehicles
- Four nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu City Tour, including all entry fees, tour guide, and private vehicle
- Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek
- Seasonal fruits - after dinner snacks during the trek
- Best available twin-sharing lodges for accommodation during the trek (We provide attached bathrooms with hot showers at Lukla, Phakding, and Namche.)
- One highly experienced, helpful, and certified guide with porters to carry luggage (1 porter for two people), including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance
- Round trip flight Kathmandu - Lukla and Lukla - Kathmandu, including departure taxes
- Escape Himalaya Duffle Bag, Down Jacket, and Sleeping Bag during the trek
- Escape Himalaya T-shirt, Trekking Map, and Trip Achievement Certificate
- A comprehensive first-aid medical kit
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit Fees
- All government taxes & office service charges
Cost Excludes
- Lunch and Dinner while in Kathmandu
- Travel Insurance
- International Airfare
- Nepal Entry Visa (You can obtain a visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. A multiple-entry tourist visa suitable for 30 days can be obtained by paying USD 50 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying USD 125. Please bring two copies of passport-size photos.)
- Cold drinks including coke, water, Fanta, etc.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot showers during the trek except in Phakding, Namche, and Lukla
- Personal Trekking Equipment
- Wi-Fi / Internet during the trek
- Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Dates & Availability
Good to Know
Everest Base Camp Highpases Trek Essential Guide
Planning an Everest Base Camp High Passes Trek? Here are the Top 10 key things to know for an awesome adventure:
- Season's Greetings: Pick the perfect time to go! Spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-Nov) offer clear skies and stunning views.
- Pack Smart: Travel light! Choose a comfortable backpack and pack only essentials for the changing weather.
- Go at Your Own Pace: Don't rush! Enjoy the scenery and listen to your body. Slow and steady wins the race.
- Train Like a Champ: Get in shape! Hiking at altitude requires some physical preparation.
- Mind Over Mountain: Be prepared for challenges! A positive attitude goes a long way.
- Fuel Your Hike: Eat healthy! Choose nutritious food to keep you energized throughout the trek.
- Gear Up for Success: Dress for the elements! Pack clothes and footwear suitable for mountain weather.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water! Dehydration can be a problem at high altitudes.
- Plan Your Path: Find the right itinerary! Choose a route that matches your experience and desired duration.
- Respect the Locals: Be a good guest! Learn some basic Nepali phrases and be mindful of local customs.
Bonus Tip: Capture the memories! Take photos and videos to document your incredible journey.
Additional Cost Planning
Apart from the major costs of your Everest HighPasses trek package, you will need to budget for certain additional fees. Here's a simple plan to help you budget while still having a good time:
Trail Necessities:
- Hot Gas Showers: Tea houses may charge $5-7 for a warm shower, particularly at higher elevations.
- Charging Electronics: Tea houses may allow you to charge your electronics for $3-7 per hour usually solar-powered from Tengboche. Bringing a portable charger is convenient.
Food & Treats:
- Extra Meals: Depending on where you are, you may want to purchase more snacks or lunches, which cost between $5 and $12
- Drinks: Expect to spend $1-4 per bottle of water. Other drinks may be more expensive, so use a reusable bottle and filter your water to save money and prevent waste.
Staying Connected:
- Wi-Fi: While many guest houses offer Wi-Fi, they provide Air-link & Everest-Link cards, typically costing 700-800 rupees for 24 hours. If you need internet access, consider downloading maps and entertainment ahead of time.
Remember that prices might vary, so use these estimates as a guideline.
Consider your spending patterns for drinks, snacks, and gifts.
Note: Carry Nepali Rupees for incidental expenses. While some tea shops accept US dollars, possessing the local currency eliminates conversion problems and ensures you have the correct amounts for smaller transactions.
By budgeting for these things, you'll be better prepared to deal with unexpected costs and enjoy your Annapurna Base Camp route!
Dining on the Everest High passes Trek: From Classic Favorites to Local Delights
Lunch and dinner on the Everest high pass trek to Everest Base Camp are a delicious adventure in themselves. Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali cuisine, is a popular choice among trekkers due to its low cost and high-calorie content. But the variety does not end there. Tea houses cater to a wide range of tastes, with classic dishes such as fried rice, chicken curries, and even burgers and pizzas. Noodle enthusiasts can have stir-fried noodles or cheesy pasta meals.
After a day of hiking, dinner becomes a joyous occasion, with tea houses broadening their menus to include a broader selection of familiar favorites as well as local specialties. So, whether you crave a hearty Dal Bhat or a soothing slice of pizza, the EBC journey delivers a great and satisfying refill after each adventure-filled day.
Everest Base Camp Chola Pass Trek Fundamentals:
Prepare for the Everest High Passes Trek with our full package, carefully planned to keep you comfortable and prepared during the entire trip.
We provide a 120-liter Duffel Bag for trek packing, a certified -20°C Down Jacket, and a four-season Sleeping Bag, ensuring warmth and coziness during chilly mountain nights.
Trekking Duffel Bag
A duffle bag, also known as a kit bag is a cylindrical-shaped carrying bag having a top closure generally made of either natural fabric or other sturdy fabric (usually canvas). It has a handle or a shoulder strap to carry which makes it easy for the porter to carry it. Duffle bags are commonly used for traveling, sports, and outdoor activities or even for temporary storage. They are used for carrying clothing, personal items, and electronics or sports gear during travel. The size of the duffle bag varies according to one's needs and requirements. They come in different sizes from small bags to large travel duffle bags capable of holding required gear during travel. Generally, duffle bags are used to carry loads up to 15 kg in all trek which varies according to the size and materials to be carried during the travel, as well as the carrying limit of the porter. Duffle bags are suitable for trekking due to their comfort and accessibility as it is flexible and portable which makes them easy to carry. It is an excellent choice to carry for traveling due to its versatility and ease of handling.
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We arrange the duffle bags that hold up to 120 liters of storage capacity and are also waterproof which helps in the rainy environment by protecting the materials inside the bag. Generally, these duffle bags are carried by the porter during the trek and you can carry a small or medium carrying bag for yourself to carry personal materials and gadgets with you. Please be assured that your luggage and suitcase will be securely managed and safeguarded at our hotel while you enjoy your trek and will promptly return to you once you complete your trek.
Down Jacket
A down jacket, also known as a puffer jacket is a quilted coat filled with soft feathers either from a duck or goose. Down jackets are more popular for cold climates and especially useful in mountains and higher altitudes. They are generally preferred by hikers, trekkers, and backpackers for being extremely comfortable due to their lightweight and compressibility making it easy to pack without occupying a lot of space. It has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, best for maintaining body heat essential for trekking in cold climates and higher altitudes.
It is also ideal for wearing and sleeping in during high-altitude treks, providing excellent insulation and good comfort. Please ensure to return it once the trek is completed so it can be preserved for the next adventures.
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are essential gear for travelers and trekkers which provide good comfort and protection in various climatic conditions and altitudes. Most of our treks and tours require a sleeping bag as it keeps you warm by trapping the heat around you from your body.
The sleeping bags we use are mummy-shaped with a zip up and down that keeps the top tight around you. It is used in cold and wet climates in high altitudes( -20°C to -25°C maximum temperature) giving you protection, and comfort and as well it is also lightweight and compact which it easy to carry on long treks. The sleeping bag is returned after the trek as it helps us to maintain our gear for future adventurers.
At Escape Himalaya, we provide a detailed checklist of essential trekking gear, ensuring that you're fully equipped for your Himalayan adventure.
HEAD
- Sun Hat or Scarf
- Lightweight Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
- Sunglasses with UV Protection
- Headband or ear covers
FEET
- Thin, Lightweight Inner Socks
- Thick, Warm Wool Hiking Socks
- Sturdy Hiking Boots
- Camp Shoes (Sneakers/Sandals)
- Gaiters
- Spare Laces
- Microspikes
HANDS
- Lightweight Gloves
- Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens
- Hand Warmers
LOWER BODY
- Undergarments
- Hiking Shorts
- Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
- Light & Expedition Weight Thermal Bottoms
- Fleece Pants
- Waterproof Shell Pants
ACCESSORIES
- Backpack (30-50 LTR)
- Headlamp
- First Aid Kit
- Large Plastic Bag
- Trekking Poles
- Water Bottle
- Toiletries
- Lip Balm
- Water Purification Tablets
- Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags
- Earplugs
- Guide and Porter
- Chargers
- Bag Covers
- Raincoat
- Personal Care Kit
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
Personal Hygiene Items
- Wet Wipes
- Tissues
- Handwash
- Blister Plasters
- Portable Hand Sanitizer
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
- Maps and Guides
- Snacks/Energy Bars
- Camera
- Notebook/Pen
Prepare for your EBC Luxury Trek with confidence, knowing that you have all the necessary gear and essentials to make your journey safe, comfortable, and memorable.
Travellers‘ Reviews
Sheryl Ang
14th Dec 2024Gorgeous Views!
Read more +Excellent trekking experience with Escape Himalaya to Kala Patthar! Everything went seamlessly, and my guide ensured we were safe and comfortable at all times, even in the high altitude. Will definitely choose EH again when I am back in Nepal for more hiking! The country is so beautiful and just has so much to offer!
Tony W
18th Apr 2024Amazing Manaslu Circuit with Phurba & Ram
Read more +Just back from a fantastic 2 week trek around the Manaslu Circuit including Larke Pass (5100m). The weather was perfect and the views were outstanding!!
Our guide Phurba Sherpa was excellent. Super knowledgeable and helpful at all times and always made sure we had a fantastic trip.
Our porter, Ram Badhadur Magar was also a rockstar. He was super professional and always arrived before us every day. He was also super friendly and helpful too.
Thanks to Phurba, Ram for always smiling and for a fantastic trip. Would highly recommend them to anyone interested in trekking in Nepal
Kevin P
3rd Apr 2024Everest base camp trek - Mar-Apr 2024
Read more +My 60 year old pals set out in hope on this adventure. In late March. We had our guide Raj Kumar and two porterd Janak and Ramesh. All three were stars. We changed our schedule - no problem. I would not have made it without Raj. I cannot thank him enough. Janak often took my back pack on steep climbs where I was struggling. This is a truly majestic and spiritual trek and I would encourage using Escape Himalaya and request this team of guide and porters if you want to give yourself the best chance of finishing and making best use of your time.
FAQS
Q1. Do we need a visa before coming to Nepal?
Q2. Which one is better: Group or Solo (private) trek?
Q3. Is a visa required for entry into Nepal?
Q4. Will there be someone to pick me up at the airport when I arrive?
Q5. As a solo traveler, are you able to join a group for your journey?
Q6. What are the types of hotel you use in Kathmandu?
Q7. Would it be possible for me to upgrade my accommodation to a luxury hotel in Kathmandu?
Q8. Which destinations are commonly favored by tourists visiting Nepal?
Q9. How challenging is trekking to Everest Base Camp?
Q10. When is the best time to go for Everest Base Camp trekking?
Q11. How to prepare for Everest Base Camp trekking?
Q12. How to deal with mountain sickness during Everest Base Camp Trekking?
Q13. How to avoid altitude sickness during Everest Base Camp trekking?
Q14. Is travel insurance necessary for Everest Base Camp Trek?
Q15. How much extra money we should bring for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Q16. Are there any alternative routes to Everest Base Camp Trek?
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