Destination
Nepal
Accomodation
Hotel, Lodge and Tea house
Walking Distance
180 km / 111.9 miles
Duration
16 Nights 17 Days
Max. Elevation
5550m
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Season
March-May August-November
Grade
Challenging
Overview
The Everest Three High Pass Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in the world. This is because it takes you through some of the most beautiful and iconic scenery on Earth - the Everest Himalayan mountain range. The trekking route goes through Renjo la, Chola, and Kongma la three different trekking peaks, each offering its own unique challenge and rewards. The views from the top of each pass are truly breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment you feel upon completing the trek is unforgettable.
If you're looking for an exciting adventure that will take you to some of the most stunning places on Earth, then the Everest Three Passes Trekking is definitely for you! Read on to learn more about this incredible trekking route, including what to expect, how much it will cost, and what kind of itinerary to follow.
Unprecedented Adventure
The three-pass trek is arguably the ultimate experience in the Everest Region. It incorporates some extraordinary mountain views along with an extensive sneak peek into the Sherpa culture. Furthermore, the trail also encompasses the route of both Everest Base Camp Trek as well as Gokyo Lake Trek. We begin from Kathmandu and fly to Lukla from the regional airport. Sometimes the weather conditions are just not right to fly from Kathmandu, in that case, we will travel to Ramechhap and take a flight from there. Upon reaching Lukla, we hike towards Phakding and then towards Namche. We could also opt to stay at Phakding and explore the beautiful Sagarmatha National Park. Here, we start trekking along the Gokyo route and reach Marlung, a small aesthetic village located at the foothill of Kajyo Ri. After Marlung, we will encounter our first pass, the Renjo La Pass, situated at a height of 5360 meters. Hiking further, we reach the Gokyo Valley where we will enjoy the views of the heavenly Gokyo Lakes. Following that, after hiking through the settlement at Thaknak, we encounter our second pass, the Cho La pass. We walk further through Dzongla village to reach Lobuche. We then trek northwards to reach Gorakshep and ultimately to Everest Base Camp. We will explore the base camp but will not stay there for the night. After returning back to Gorakshep, we hike to Kaala Patthar to see the scene of a lifetime. You can not see Mt. Everest from the Everest base camp itself, we know you did not expect that. That is why we will trek up to Kala Patthar for an expansive view of Mt. Everest along with other peaks of the region. From Kala Patthar, we trace our steps further back to Lobuche. From there, we continue our hike eastward to reach the third pass, the Kongma La Pass. After crossing the pass, we walk through Chhukung, Dingboche, and Tengboche before finally reaching Namche Bazaar. From there, we trace back our steps to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu. Alternatively, you can also do this trek in the opposite direction i.e. counter-clockwise. However, our itinerary is focused on making the expedition more challenging with ultimate adventurers in mind. Everest Three Passes Trek is for adventurous trekkers who are seeking something challenging. While definitely not for beginners, it is quite an exhilarating adventure for experienced trekkers. The best time to do this trek is during autumn and spring when it’s neither too hot nor too cold. We take care of your entire logistics and make sure you have a good time without any health risks. Moreover, we provide experienced guides to accompany you all the way. However, we highly recommend trekking in groups or with a guide. Sherpa people are the native ethnic group residing in the Everest region. Buddhist tradition will be apparent at every step of the trek. The carvings on the Mani walls, spinning wheels, and prayer flags display a rich and vibrant culture that is thriving. The language and lifestyle here are unique and interesting, to say the least. Spirited culture displayed by monasteries and stupas can be experienced vividly on the journey to Everest High Pass Trek. The architecture here speaks of their tradition loudly. The journey to the three-pass trek might be the start of your spiritual journey because this trek leaves you spellbound. Himalayas that stand still and unbothered instigate a breathtaking experience within you. The locals here rear Yaks, the cows of the mountain, as their main occupation. Most modern facilities and things that you get on this trek are thanks to these Yaks who carry them on their back through the rugged dirt trails. You will treat yourself to the unique Sherpa tradition, of their lifestyle, along with their music and dance in the evening. This cultural performance is one you shouldn’t miss at all. Also, you will enlighten yourself with the displays in the Sherpa Cultural Museum about the culture’s art, tradition, knowledge, and various other aspects. Changing the topic to food, the main staple here is Potato, Dhido, Daal, and Bhaat, which is what you will be eating mainly for your lunch and dinner. These foods are the best for your Everest Three Passes. The Everest Three Passes Trekking is a moderate to difficult level trekking route that should be done with the help of an experienced trekking guide. The route takes you through three different passes - Kongma La Pass (5,420m/ 17,778 ft), Cho La Pass (5,535 m/18,155ft), and Renjo La Pass (5,417m/17,768ft). Each pass offers its own unique challenges, but all of them require a high degree of fitness and stamina. The views from the top of each pass are simply stunning, so it is well worth the effort! The best time to attempt the Everest Three Passes Trekking is between March and May or September and November. The Everest Three Passes Trekking is a moderate to difficult trekking route that should be done with the help of an experienced trekking guide. The route takes you through three different passes - Kongma La Pass (5,420m/ 17,778 ft), Cho La Pass (5,535 m/18,155ft), and Renjo La Pass (5,417m/17,768ft). Each pass offers its own unique challenges, and all of them require a high degree of fitness and stamina. The views from the top of each pass are simply stunning, so it is well worth the effort! The best time to attempt the Everest Three Passes Trekking is between March and May or September and November. Since the 3 passes trail is demanding and contains some technical parts, it is better for trekkers who are interested in the 3 passes trek Nepal to train in advance. If there are hills around you that you can climb, it is the perfect training for your 3 passes Everest trek. To simulate your trekking days in Nepal, it’s better to carry a bag with 4 to 5 kg of weight. We recommend you train for stamina, build your endurance, and train your legs to be able to walk 7 to 8 hours daily with ease. This will help you have a better trekking experience. If you are unprepared for the trek, you will be huffing and puffing while ascending the trails which will result in a bad experience overall and we don’t want to see you struggle as well. You should spend more time doing the ladder/step machine, treadmill, cycling, and other cardio equipment at the gym instead of lifting weights. To make sure that you avoid altitude sickness, we have incorporated 2 rest days on the itinerary. On the 6th day of the 3 Passes Trek Nepal, you will spend an acclimatization day at Gokyo followed by a rest day in Dingboche on the 13th day. A rest day can also be made in Namche Bazaar; this will make the itinerary 18 days in total. During the acclimatization days, we will hike to higher elevations as a detour and also practice the “climb high, sleep low” technique. Another aspect of keeping yourself safe from altitude sickness is making sure that you are well-hydrated throughout the trek.Taking the Ultimate Challenge
Culture in the Everest Region
Everest Three Passes Trekking - What to Expect?
3 Passes Trek Nepal Difficulty
3 Passes Trek Nepal Distance Breakdown:
Essential Training Guide for 3 Passes Trek Nepal
Beating Altitude Sickness on 3 Passes Trek Nepal
3 Passes Trek vs Everest Base Camp: Which Offers More Bang for Your Buck?
The clear winner is the 3 Passes Trek, obviously, as it merges the Everest Base Camp trek and the Gokyo Lake Trek. The EBC trek is simply a trek to the base camp of Everest while the 3 Passes Trek Nepal takes you to EBC, the Gokyo Lakes, and three different passes (Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Kongma La Pass).
3 Passes Trek Nepal Weather: What to Expect Each Season
As with every Himalayan trekking destination in Nepal, the weather conditions can change drastically in an instant. That is why we urge you to pack waterproof clothing. Here’s what you can expect from each season on your 3 Passes Trek Nepal.
Autumn (September to November)
Followed by the monsoon period, this season offers the best views as the rain clears the smog in the air resulting in clear blue skies and uninterrupted views. During the day, you can expect a temperature from 15°C to 20°C while the nighttime temp drops to 0°C or below. The trekking trails will be dry making it an ideal trekking condition.
Spring (March to May)
The season of spring shares the same features as autumn, the daytime temp ranges from 15°C to 20°C while the night time temp can reach 0°C. However, this season is more prone to rainfall. The upside of this season is the lush vegetation you will get to experience in the lower regions of the trek. The views will be clear most of the time with many flowers blooming en route. You will get to experience trekking through the blooming rhododendron forest.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is one of the least popular seasons for trekking in Nepal. You can expect the day temp to range from 20°C to 25°C which is considered hot in the Himalayan region. While the views are still great in summer, the afternoon clouds can keep you from seeing the best view. It’s also prone to afternoon rainfall as it shares traits with the monsoon season. The best thing about trekking the 3 Passes Trek Nepal in summer is the smaller number of trekkers en route.
Winter (December to February)
Winter season is considered the least suitable time to travel to the Himalayas as it does not offer suitable trekking conditions. Heavy snowfall and cloudy days are common during this season and some of the passes can be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. The daytime temp ranges from 10°C to 15°C but the nighttime temp can be unbearably cold. On top of that most villagers travel to lower elevations to avoid the extreme snow and cold, making the villages somewhat empty and deserted.
Conquering 3 Passes Trek Nepal During Monsoon: Pros and Cons
The 3 Passes Trek Nepal is best done in spring and autumn but some trekkers prefer a bit of challenging condition. So, here are the pros and cons of traveling in Monsoon.
Pros
Less crowd
Fewer costs for permits and flights as this is among the least desired trekking seasons.
The rain makes the hills lush and green and the rivers are at an all-time high.
Cons
Heavy rainfall may cause landslides in the lower regions.
Continuous rainfall makes the trails wet and slippery.
Cloudy days block the beautiful views.
Monsoon calls for leech-infested trail.
Hiring a Guide and Porter for 3 Passes Trek Nepal: Costs and Benefits
Hiring a guide is not a luxury but a need as they are the ones with years of experience walking the remote trails of the 3 Passes Trek Nepal. Not only are they your GPS for the trek but they also bridge the communication gap between you and the locals of the Himalayan villages; not everyone understands English, especially in the remote villages.
Hiring a guide will cost you $30 per day and $35 for a porter per day. This fee includes their daily wages, insurance fee, and food. A guide will help you stay on track and reach your daily stops in time to make sure the journey goes as smoothly as possible. Meanwhile, a porter will carry your luggage through the trek, through all the ups and downs so you can focus on the trek instead of the heavy load.
Everest Three Passes Trek Photo
Three Pass Trek Itinerary
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day 1
Arrival at Airport and transfer to hotel
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day 2
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding
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day 3
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
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day 4
Namche to Marlung
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day 5
Marlung to Gokyo (4800 m) via Renjo La Pass
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day 6
Acclimatization at Gokyo
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day 7
Gokyo to Dzongla (4830 m) via Cho La Pass (5420 m)
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day 8
Dzongla to Lobuche
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day 9
Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp to Gorak Shep
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day 10
Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5550 m) to Lobuche
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day 11
Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongma La
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day 12
Chhukung to Dingboche
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day 13
Rest in Dingboche
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day 14
Dingboche to Tengboche
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day 15
Tengboche to Namche
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day 16
Namche Bazaar to Lukla
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day 17
Lukla to Kathmandu
Everest Three Passes Trek Map and Altitude Graph
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- All permits such as National Park, and TIMS Permit.
- Tea House accommodation during the 3 passes trekking.
- We provide 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) and Tea / Coffee twice daily. Please note that each meal is served as a single serving.
- Trekking gear duffel bag for your trekking stuff.
- Medical Kit Bag on every trip with Oximeter.
- Professional English-speaking guide and his insurance, well-paid salary, equipment, food & Hotel.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Manthali.
- Worst case, the arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service, if needed (paid by your Travel insurance).
- Water bottle to store hot water overnight.
- Farewell dinner in a famous Nepali restaurant.
WHAT'S EXCLUDED
- International airfare & Nepal visa fee.
- Lunches and Dinners in Kathmandu.
- Porter If needed (One porter between two trekkers is recommended).
- Personal Insurance & personal expenses.
- Tips & Gratitudes for Guide and Porter.
- Excluded Hotel in Kathmandu.
- Anything not mentioned in the What's Included section.
Travel Insurance Policy
Everest High Passes Trek is a challenging trek. It involves crossing three high passes in the Everest region all of which are over 5000 meters.
This trip comes with high-altitude trekking risks such as potential altitude sickness. Hence, travel insurance is compulsory.
All trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy to North Nepal Trek. The policy must cover medical and emergency repartition above 3000 meters - including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes.
Everest Three Passes Trek Packages and Cost.
Many different companies offer organized treks along the Everest Three Passes route. It is important to do your research before booking with any company, as not all of them are professional. Make sure to read reviews from previous clients and compare prices before making your decision.
The cost of your Everest Three Passes Trekking adventure will vary depending on which company you book with and what kind of package you choose. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a basic package that includes all food and accommodation along the way.
Everest Three Passes Trekking - Tips for Success
Follow these tips for a successful Everest Three Passes Trekking experience:
-Start training several months in advance so that you are physically prepared for the rigors of the trek
-Book with a reputable company that has experience leading groups along this route
-Make sure to pack all essential items such as warm clothing, trekking gear, comfortable walking shoes, a first aid kit, etc.
-Listen to your guide's instructions at all times and be respectful of their expertise
-Trek at your own pace and take breaks when needed
-Enjoy the incredible views and savor this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
By following these tips, you can be sure to have a successful and enjoyable experience on your Everest Three Passes Trekking adventure! This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the most beautiful places on Earth - so make sure to make the most of it!
Complete 3 Passes Trek Nepal Packing List
- Trekking Trousers
- Trekking long-sleeve T-shirts
- Warm gloves
- Insulating jackets or inners
- Down jacket
- Water Proof Jacket and Trousers
- Trekking Poles
- Thermos Bottle
- Beanie
- Gaiters
- Sunglasses
- Hiking Boots
- Warm socks
- Crocs
- Crampons
- Skin moisturizing cream
- Woolen cap and Neck gaiters
Everest Three Passes Trek Price
Packages and Cost. Many different companies offer organized treks along the Everest Three Passes route. It is important to do your research before booking with any company, as not all of them are professional. Make sure to read reviews from previous clients and compare prices before making your decision.
The cost of your Everest Three Passes Trekking adventure will vary depending on which company you book with and what kind of package you choose. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a basic package that includes all food and accommodation along the way.
Everest Three Passes Trekking - Tips for Success
Follow these tips for a successful Everest Three Passes Trekking experience: -Start training several months in advance so that you are physically prepared for the rigors of the trek -Book with a reputable company that has experience leading groups along this route -Make sure to pack all essential items such as warm clothing, trekking gear, comfortable walking shoes, a first aid kit, etc. -Listen to your guide's instructions at all times and be respectful of their expertise -Trek at your own pace and take breaks when needed -Enjoy the incredible views and savor this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
By following these tips, you can be sure to have a successful and enjoyable experience on your Everest Three Passes Trekking adventure! This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the most beautiful places on Earth - so make sure to make the most of it!
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Frequently Asked Question
Months from March to May and from October to December are the best time to commence this trek. During March-May, the weather is usually clear and, snowfall is very common at this time of the year. But, the clearest and mind-boggling view of the Himalayas can be seen from October to December as the skies are very clear with no rainfall and meager fog. However, the trekking routes are usually more crowded from October to December than in any other season.
In particular to this trek, the nights are spent on lodges with good facilities and quality food. This trek lies in the Everest region which is famed for its highest peak in the world so, it welcomes many hikers and climbers every year, so, the lodges and tea houses are advanced and offer various options for our meals and breakfast. However, these trails and lodges may be crowded and packed during the trekking season.
This trek is mainly about ascending three passes with more than 5000m altitudes so, the routes are very technical and challenging. Also, children are more likely to get altitude sickness during the expedition. Because of that, taking children with us on this trek is very risky and almost impossible to conquer.
Yes, we can combine this route with other treks. Such as Everest Base Camp Trek and Gokyo Lake Trek.
The foremost thing to do before inaugurating the trek is to do a regular medical check-up. However, if you get altitude sickness or any other sickness along the way then, we will consult the local doctors first and review if you can continue the journey. If you are fit enough to continue then, we will resume the journey and if no improvements are seen in your health, then we will be forced to send you back. In those cases, we will refund after calculating all the expenditures up to sick days on mutual consent.
While it is possible to trek the Everest three pass trek clockwise it will be more challenging than the counter clock-wise trek.
You will cross the Renjo La Pass which is situated at an elevation of 5,360 m / 17,585 ft directly at the start of your trek. This route connects Gokyo Valley, famous for the Gokyo Lake but is only recommended to experienced trekkers. However, we suggest that even experienced trekkers attempt the Everest three passes trek clockwise if they are already acclimatized in the high altitude zone (meaning they recently trekked any other treks at high altitude).
So, you can trek the three passes trek clockwise but with extreme caution and you are perfectly fit with low to zero chance for altitude sickness.
While the everest three pass trek is a long trek the time it takes mostly depends on your experience as well as trekking Itinerary. While directly trekking Everest three Pass Trek from Kathmandu without sight seeing mostly takes about 16 days, the acclimitization days, weather, affects the number of days you trek.
So, depending on your season, acclimitization routine, and your experience, the Everest three pass trek will take 16 - 20 days.
Everest three pass trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal and is rated “Challenging” grade. It is a strenuous adventure as all the passes lie over 5400 m and a good amount of stamina and physical strength is required for this long trek of 16 - 20 days.
Everest Three Passes Trek Company Reviews
Three passes trek success with North Nepal
With all the agencies in Nepal it’s hard to decide which company.
Search no more! North Nepal Travel & Trek is the one to choose!
After a 20 day trek in Manaslu region with another company, we wanted to do the Three passes trek in Everest region. Luckily, we were in Pokhara and we went to North Nepal to get information.
As soon as we got in, we felt a true connexion, and we had the full attention from the owners/employees. They were so patient, they answered every question we had and they offered the best price/quality option.
We were blessed with Mohan that arranged tourist bus transportation from Pokhara to Chitwan and back to Kathmandu.
As for the Everest region trek, he chose the best airline company and he chose an experimented guide for us, Mr. Zeewan.
Zeewan came to meet us in Kathmandu, gave us all the information we needed for the trek. Zeewan is the perfect guide, we felt safe with him and he made everything go smoothly. He always respected our pace, he took pictures for us, he cheered us, and he’s knowledgeable, knowing all the mountains we passed.
We met Binaram, our porter, in Lukla. He was our superman, we had a lot of fun with him, always smiling and patient with us.
I got altitude sickness and I followed all Zeewan instructions and tips to get better and it worked fast. He’s not only a good guide, he’s a super coach and athlete. He did the Three passes trek in 5 days in 2017. He can also coach for ultramarathon training!
Zeewan and Binaram, we succeeded the Tree passes trek because of you, and we are indefinitely grateful to have experienced it with you.
Back in Pokhara, Mohan was kind enough to check on us to see how we were doing during the trek. When we finished the Three passes trek, he delivered us certificates, t-shirts and traditional Buddhist scarf to congratulate us. So thoughtful.
We are more than happy with our experience with North Nepal and will recommend to family and friends.
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