Everest Three High Pass Trek
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| Starts at: Lukla | Ends at: Lukla |
| Trek Region: Everest | Transport: Flight |
| Duration: 18 Days | Trip Grade: Challenging |
| Max Altitude: 5,643 m / 18,513 ft (Kala Patthar) | Accommodation: Teahouse |
Everest Three High Pass Trek Highlights
- Cross three popular passes in the Everest region – Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La
- Explore the glacial lakes of the Gokyo Valley
- Have an adventurous yet, challenging time while crossing these passes
- Get a close insight into the life of the Himalayan Sherpa people
- Catch the finest views of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar (5545 meters / 18,192 ft)
The Everest Three Pass Trek consists of crossing three high-altitude passes, namely, Renjo La Pass (5465 m), Cho La Pass (5420 m), and Khongma La Pass (5,535 m /18,159).
Here are some long days (9 hours) and strenuous accents, so a high level of fitness is required. The trek combines crossing these passes with the other ‘must-do’ areas of the Khumbu: Everest Base Camp, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and the Gokyo Lakes.
Flying in and out of Lukla, two routes are possible, clockwise and anti-clockwise. But both routes provide you with the same terrain and spectacular views.
This trek is the definitive Everest region trek for the adventure-seeking trekker!
Here is just a taste of what to expect from this trek:
From the top of the Renjo La Pass (5,464m /17,926), the views of Everest reportedly beat even the panoramic Everest views from Kalapatthar. There are also spectacular views of Gokyo Lake.
Cho La Pass (5,420m /17,782 ft) is formed between the snowcapped summits of Lobuche (6,135m /20,127 ft) and Cholatse (6,443m). The steep climb is challenging and icy in parts, but from the summit, there are spectacular views of Ama Dablam.
Kongma La Pass has been described as more of a ‘precarious struggle among skittering stones.’ The route takes you across a glacier, and glacier-fed river, and the climb up to the pass at 5,535m /18,159 ft is the highest on this trip.
You can regain your breath as you take in the views from the top of the pass where Lhotse and Makula feel their presence and the view of the turquoise lakes below contrasts the majesty of the mountains.
As mentioned, this trek takes in not just the three passes but also a trip up Kalapatthar, the famous place to view Mount Everest (in fact, it is often referred to as the Everest View Point), and a trek to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp.
The names of which are very familiar to anyone who has an interest in the Everest region or knows something about the history of Mount Everest.
Two other highlights of this trek are Tengboche Monastery, the highest monastery in the Khumbu Region, and the Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater bodies in Nepal. If you want to explore three passes but don’t want to trek, check out the Everest Helicopter tour, which is the best way to see these places without trekking.
Everest Three Pass Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Kathmandu – 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
Phakding – 2,651 m / 8,697 ft – 3 to 4 hrs
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar – 3,438 m / 11,279 ft – 5 to 6 hrs
Day 4: Acclimatization day
Namche Bazaar – 3,438 m / 11,279 ft – 5 to 6 hrs
Day 5: Namche to Tengboche
Tengboche – 3,956 m / 12,979 ft – 5 to 6 hrs
Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche
Dingboche – 4,380 m / 14,370 ft – 4 to 5 hrs
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Dingboche – 4,380 m / 14,370 ft – 3 to 4 hrs
Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche via Khong Ma La Pass
Lobuche – 4,938 m / 16,200 ft – 10 hrs
Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar)
Gorakshep – 5,368 m / 17,611- 8 hrs
Day 10: Gorakshep to Dzongla (Morning hike to EBC)
Dzongla – 4,830m / 15,846 ft – 8 hrs
Day 11: Dzongla to Gokyo via Cho La Pass
Gokyo – 4,800 m / 15,748 ft – 8 to 9 hrs
Day 12: Acclimatization day
Gokyo – 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Day 13: Gokyo Valley to Marlung via Renjo La Pass
Marlung – 4,210 m / 13,812 ft – 7 to 8 hrs
Day 14: Marlung to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar – 3,438 m / 11,279 ft- 5 to 6 hrs
Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Lukla – 2,860 m / 9,383 ft – 7 – 8 hrs
Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)
Lukla – 1,400 m / 4,593 ft – 35 minute
Day 17: Departure
Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Accommodation: Hotel
We will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel where we will brief you on your upcoming trek. Feel free to explore the surrounding area today or catch up on your sleep before your early morning flight.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
- Flight time: 35 to 40 minutes
- Trek time: 3 to 4 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Wake up early for an amazing mountain-filled flight into one of the highest airports in the world! After meeting your local crew and being awed by the airstrip you just landed on, set off on a trail that takes you past a monastery, over a suspension bridge, and into the heartland of the Sherpa people.
We stop for the first night at Phakding, about a 3 hour’s hike from Lukla.
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast start trekking with both ascents and descents to reach the market town of Namche Bazaar. The trail takes us to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, over some more suspension bridges, and through rhododendron forests.
Tonight we sleep in the biggest Sherpa town in the region – bustling with trekkers and climbers and locals going about their business.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
- Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Today is a day to let the body acclimatize as we have risen quickly to this altitude. The best way to acclimatize is to be active. Either be exploring Namche or better still, taking a walk in the neighborhood. Head for the Everest View Hotel for your morning coffee! You might come across people who have helicoptered in for breakfast with a view! And what a view it is – majestic Mt. Everest as the name suggests.
You might want to continue on to Khumjung village, home to Khunde Hospital and Khumjung School. Both were built in the 1960s by Sir Edmund Hillary. Here you also find Khumjung Monastery which dates back hundreds of years although was reconstructed after the 2015 earthquake. Today, as in the past, it is the center of Sherpa’s religion and culture. Allegedly there is a Yeti scalp inside the monastery!
Finally, stock up on any snacks you might want to take with you – the last shopping opportunity of the trek!
Day 5: Namche to Tengboche
- Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Tengboche village is home to Tengboche monastery, which boasts some of the most spectacular views of Everest and Lhotse! The route heads out across the Dudh Koshi River and through thick forests which gradually thin out as you cross the tree line. As this is a Buddhist monastery there are stupas and mani (prayer) walls along the way.
There is an opportunity to attend prayers with the monks as well as take in the astounding views before retiring for the night in the village.
Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche
- Trek time: 4 to 5 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
The trail is rugged and there are few trees on this windy trail between Tengboche and Dingboche villages. With Ama Dablam towering above, the trail enters the Imja Valley where it descends to the Lobuche River before rising steeply up to Dingboche.
This lovely village has fields surrounded by stone walls to protect the high-altitude crops from grazing animals and the wind. And quite a few lodges!
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
- Trek time: 4 to 5 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Another acclimatization day to aid with the rise in altitude and once again we suggest you keep active! What better way to spend the time than by hiking to a viewpoint at Nagarjune Hill (5,100m) – a round trip of around 4 to 5 hours. The views are, naturally, worth the effort! Periche Valley lies below and above lies Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Lobuche East and Lobuche West, among others.
Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche via Khong Ma La Pass
- Trek time: 10 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
It’s a long day for sure, but a memorable and adventurous one too. The trail starts steeply to climb out of the valley to Dugla, located at the end of the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier then onto Chukpo Lari. Here we find memorials to climbers who have died on Everest – placed here in memory with a panorama of beloved mountains on the Nepal-Tibet border.
Today we cross the challenging Kongma La Pass (5, 545m) with views of many peaks such as Lobuche, Mehra, the south face of Nuptse, and many others which your guide will be happy to point out to you. The high altitude crossing the pass is the reason we take acclimatization days beforehand.
Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kala Patthar)
- Trek time: 7 to 8 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
The trail from Lobuche rises slowly and over a period of 3 hours to Gorakshep. After checking into the lodge at Gorakshep and having lunch, we set off to hike to Kala Patthar, otherwise known as the Everest viewpoint.
Although Everest Base Camp is a very popular destination – and one we will explore the following day – Kala Patthar gets you closer to Everest than you can ever be without actually climbing the great mountain! Kala Patthar is a black rock (hence its name) with astounding views which are hard to comprehend until you are there.
After this spectacular adventure, return to Gorakshep for the night.
Day 10: Gorakshep to Dzongla (Morning hike to EBC)
- Trek time: 8 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
On leaving Gorakshep in the early morning we hike along the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp. This iconic location is actually different from the one climbing expeditions use. But we can see their colourful tents nearby – but far enough away that trekkers do not disturb them in their arduous preparations.
Returning to Gorakshep for breakfast we then set out for Dzongla where we stay overnight.
Day 11: Dzongla to Gokyo via Cho La Pass
- Trek time: 8 to 9 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Another early start as we head towards the Cho La Pass with its glacier and stunning views. The trail starts off easy enough before a steady ascent. But the views of Ama Dablam, among other mountains, rivers, and glaciers are simply at their best. The terrain of loose rocks makes the going slow until you reach the start of the glacier. Crampons are really required here (buy or rent in Thamel, Kathmandu before you start your trek). In the distance that turquoise lake comes back into view.
Again the elevation increases as we climb up the pass. At the top, under the fluttering prayer flags, take a bit of a rest and gather some great photos!
Coming down over the pass head for the village of Thagnak for lunch before crossing another glacier and onwards to Gokyo where we stay overnight.
Day 12: Acclimatization day
- Accommodation: Tea House
We take another acclimatization day here at Gokyo – an opportunity to explore this village and the surrounding area.
Day 13: Gokyo Valley to Marlung via Renjo La Pass
- Trek time: 7 to 8 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Heading off early we follow the peaks of Everest, Cholatse, Lhotse, and more down some stone steps and on through a narrow valley, passing Renjo Lake and walking alongside Dudh Pokhari (lake).
The trail over the Renjo La Pass takes in views of the third Gokyo Lake and Gokyo village along with Ngozumpa Glacier. And of Mount Everest is there in all its glory! The lakes of Relama Tsho and Renjo are seen on the way too as you make your way down to Marlung situated on the bank of the Bhote Koshi River.
Day 14: Marlung to Namche Bazaar
- Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Today the end of the trek is in sight, so enjoy the stunning views while you can. Descend into Thame village and cross the Bhote Koshi River before heading on downwards and crossing a couple of bridges to reach Thame. The village has its own gompa (monastery) situated on a hill above it. The trail continues to descend until you reach Namche Bazaar.
Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Trek time: 7 to 8 hours
- Accommodation: Tea House
Today we follow the Dudh Koshi River to Lukla where we overnighted waiting for the flight back to Kathmandu.
Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu
- Flight time: 35 to 40 minutes
- Accommodation: Hotel
Once again the flight is one you will not forget! Mountains and farmland lie all around until finally, we reach the city of Kathmandu. We will escort you to your hotel and give you the tips you want on how to spend the rest of your day.
Day 17: Departure
We will ensure you reach the airport on time for your onward flight. If you are not leaving the country, do ask us about other adventures we can arrange for you.
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Includes
- Local transfers for your international flight x 2 (arrival/departure)
- Local transfers for your domestic flight x 2
- Kathmandu Lukla Kathmandu Flight
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Local Entry Permits
- Guide for 16 days
- Porter for 15 days
- 2 nights accommodation in a Kathmandu hotel (Norbulinka boutique hotel or similar)
- 15 night accommodation in mountain teahouses
- Staff insurance and necessary ground transport for support staff
- 16 x set breakfast, 15 x set lunch and 15 x set dinner while on trek.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Personnel expenses of any kind and travel insurance
Everest Three High Pass Trek Map
General Information
What is the Everest Three High Pass Trek?
The Everest Three High Pass Trek is a challenging trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal that involves crossing three high mountain passes: Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m).
How long does the trek take?
The trek typically takes about 18 to 21 days, depending on the specific itinerary and acclimatization schedule.
What are the main highlights of the trek?
Key highlights include the stunning views from Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La passes, visiting Everest Base Camp, and the iconic viewpoints of Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri.
What is the best time to undertake the trek?
The best time for this trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons when the weather is more stable and visibility is clear.
Is the Everest Three High Pass Trek suitable for beginners?
No, this trek is considered challenging and is recommended for experienced trekkers with a good level of physical fitness.
Do I need a guide for the trek?
While it’s possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended due to the trek’s difficulty and remote paths.
What permits are required for the trek?
You need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
How do I get to the starting point of the trek?
The trek starts from Lukla, which is reached by a 35-minute flight from Kathmandu.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation is typically in teahouses, which provide basic lodging and meals.
What should I pack for the trek?
Essential items include warm clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a first-aid kit, and trekking poles.
Preparation and Training
How should I prepare physically for the trek?
Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hiking with a loaded backpack.
What altitude training is recommended?
It is beneficial to hike at high altitudes before the trek to acclimate your body to lower oxygen levels.
Do I need any special gear for the trek?
Yes, essential gear includes high-quality trekking boots, layered clothing, a good sleeping bag, and possibly crampons for crossing the passes.
What kind of medical preparation is necessary?
Consult with a doctor about altitude sickness medication and ensure you have a comprehensive first-aid kit.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is crucial.
What kind of diet should I follow before the trek?
Eat a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to build energy reserves.
Should I bring my own trekking equipment or rent it in Nepal?
While renting equipment in Nepal is possible, bringing your own ensures better quality and fit.
How can I acclimatize during the trek?
Follow the principle of “climb high, sleep low” and take acclimatization days as recommended by your itinerary.
What vaccinations are recommended?
Check with your doctor for vaccinations against hepatitis, typhoid, and tetanus.
Are there any specific dietary recommendations during the trek?
Eat high-energy foods, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeine which can exacerbate dehydration.
Route and Itinerary
What is the typical itinerary for the Everest Three High Pass Trek?
The trek usually starts with a flight to Lukla, followed by trekking to Namche Bazaar, and then moving towards the three passes.
What are the main stops along the route?
Major stops include Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Thame, Lungden, Gokyo, Dzongla, and Gorak Shep.
How difficult is each pass?
Kongma La is the highest and most challenging, followed by Cho La, and Renjo La being the least difficult but still demanding.
Can the trek be done clockwise and counterclockwise?
Yes, but the counterclockwise route is more popular due to better acclimatization opportunities.
What are the acclimatization points?
Namche Bazaar and Dingboche are common places for acclimatization days.
Are there any side trips worth taking?
Side trips to Gokyo Lakes, Kala Patthar, and Everest Base Camp are highly recommended.
What kind of terrain can I expect?
The terrain includes rocky paths, glaciers, steep ascents, and high-altitude passes.
What are the main dangers on the trek?
Altitude sickness, extreme weather, and difficult terrain are the primary hazards.
Are there any cultural sites along the route?
Yes, monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche are significant cultural highlights.
What is the final leg of the trek like?
The final leg usually involves trekking back to Lukla from Namche Bazaar, followed by a flight to Kathmandu.
Costs and Budget
What is the cost of the Everest Three High Pass Trek?
The cost varies but typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500 per person, depending on the services included.
What is included in the trek package?
Packages usually include accommodation, meals, permits, guide and porter services, and internal flights.
What expenses are not included in the trek package?
Exclusions often include personal gear, travel insurance, tips, and meals in Kathmandu.
How much should I budget for meals and drinks?
Budget around $20-$30 per day for meals and drinks not included in the package.
Are tips for guides and porters expected?
Yes, tipping is customary, and the amount depends on the duration and difficulty of the trek.
What is the cost of permits for the trek?
The Sagarmatha National Park Permit costs around $30, and the TIMS card is about $20.
How much should I budget for gear rental?
Gear rental can cost between $50 and $100, depending on the items needed.
What is the cost of extra activities like helicopter rides?
A helicopter ride from Lukla to Kathmandu costs about $500 per person.
Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?
Be prepared for extra charges for hot showers, charging electronic devices, and internet access at teahouses.
Can I negotiate prices for the trek?
Prices for large groups or extended stays can sometimes be negotiated with trekking companies.
Safety and Health
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Severe cases can lead to HAPE or HACE.
How can I prevent altitude sickness?
Ascend slowly, take acclimatization days, stay hydrated, and consider medication like Diamox.
What should I do if I experience severe altitude sickness?
Descend immediately to a lower altitude and seek medical attention if necessary.
Are there medical facilities available during the trek?
Basic medical facilities are available in Namche Bazaar and some other larger villages.
How safe is the drinking water?
It’s best to use water purification tablets or drink bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
Have a clear emergency plan, carry a satellite phone if possible, and know the locations of the nearest medical facilities.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, ensure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
What kind of first-aid kit should I carry?
Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, altitude sickness medication, and blister treatments.
Are the trekking trails safe?
Generally, yes, but be cautious of loose rocks, slippery paths, and weather conditions.
How can I stay healthy during the trek?
Maintain good hygiene, eat well-cooked food, stay hydrated, and rest adequately.
Related Trips in Everest Region
Everest View Trek | Gokyo Lake Trek | Gokyo Chola Pass EBC Trek | Everest Base Camp Trek | Jiri To Everest Base Camp Trek | Island Peak Climbing | Lobuche Peak Climbing | Mera And Island Peak Climbing | Mera Peak Climbing | Baruntse Expedition | Everest Helicopter Tour