Everest Three Passes Trek

Destination
Nepal
Activity
Trekking
Accomodation
Hotel, Lodge and Tea house
Region
Everest Region
Distance
180 km / 111.9 miles
Start / End Point
Lukla/Lukla
Duration
17 Nights 18 Days
Max. Altitude
5550m
Meals Included
Breakfast
Group Size
2-50
Nature of Trek
Lodge to Lodge Trekking
Best Season
March-May August-November
Trip Code
ET-EHPT
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Transporation
Flight / Jeep / Car
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 Himalayan mountain range. The trekking route goes through 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 immense. 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 passes 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 airport. Upon reaching we hike towards Phakding and then towards Namche. We could also opt to stay here and explore Sagarmatha National Park. Here, we start trekking along the Gokyo route and reach Marlung. After Marlung, we encounter our first pass, which is Renjo La Pass. The pass is situated at a height of 5360 meters. Hiking further, we reach the Gokyo valley. There, we will enjoy the views of the excellent Gokyo Lakes.

Then, after hiking through the settlement at Thaknak, we encounter our second pass, which is Cho La pass. We walk further through Dzongla to reach Lobuche. Then we trek northwards to reach Gorakshep and then to Everest Base Camp. After returning back to Gorakshep, we hike to Kaala Patthar to see the stunning view. We trace our steps further back to Lobuche. From there, we continue our hike eastward to reach the third pass, which is Kongma La pass. After crossing the pass, we walk through Chakung, Dingboche, and Tengboche before finally reaching Namche Bazaar. From there, we trace back our steps to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu.

Taking the Ultimate Challenge

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 itinerary 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.

Culture in Everest Region

Sherpa people are the native ethnic group residing in the Everest region. You can see Buddhist tradition at every step of the trek. The carvings on the rock, spinning wheels, and prayer flags display a rich and vibrant culture that is alive. All these have their own importance.

The language and lifestyle here are so unique. Spirited culture displayed by Monasteries, 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. Mountains that stand still and unbothered instigate a breathtaking experience within you. People here follow yak rearing as their occupation. You will be able to see yaks and porters carrying loads on the way. 

You will treat yourself to the unique Sherpa tradition, of their lifestyle, along with their music and dance in the evening. Also enlighten yourself with the displays in the Sherpa Cultural Museum about the culture’s art, tradition, knowledge, and various other aspects.

Popular Nepali food is Dhido, Daal, and Bhaat is what you will be eating mainly for your lunch and dinner. And those are enough for you to survive in the mountains. 

Everest Three Passes Trekking - What to Expect? 

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. 

Everest Three Passes Trek Photo

Three Pass Trek Itinerary

  1. day 1

    Arrival at Airport and transfer to hotel

  2. day 2

    Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding

  3. day 3

    Phakding to Namche Bazaar

  4. day 4

    Namche to Marlung

  5. day 5

    Marlung to Gokyo (4800 m) via Renjo La Pass

  6. day 6

    Acclimatization at Gokyo

  7. day 7

    Gokyo to Dzongla (4830 m) via Cho La Pass (5420 m)

  8. day 8

    Dzongla to Lobuche

  9. day 9

    Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp to Gorak Shep

  10. day 10

    Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5550 m) to Lobuche

  11. day 11

    Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongma La

  12. day 12

    Chhukung to Dingboche

  13. day 13

    Rest in Dingboche

  14. day 14

    Dingboche to Tengboche

  15. day 15

    Tengboche to Namche

  16. day 16

    Namche Bazaar to Lukla

  17. day 17

    Lukla to Kathmandu

Everest Three Passes Trek Map and Altitude Graph

everest base camp trek map

WHAT’S INCLUDED

    • All permits such as National park, TIMS Permit.
    • Tea House accomodation during the trekking. 
    • All meals, during the trek. You can choose dishes from the lodge menu which mostly includes options as follows:
      • Breakfast: Cereal, Porridge, rice pudding, egg dish with bread and toast, bread with jam and honey, Pancakes with jam and honey, with tea or coffee.
      • Lunch Items: Dal Bhat (mostly recommended), noodles soup, fried noodles, momo, spaghetti chapati, Spring roll, macron,  sizzlers, swiss rosti, pizza, veg curry with plain rice, Tibetan Momo, Thukpa, Thenthuk, french fry, fry potato, boil potato and much more.
      • Dinner: Mostly same as lunch items but may vary in some hotels.
      • Note: The menu also depends on the Teahouse or Hotel, so the food items may vary.
    • Trekking gear duffel bag for your trekking stuff.
    • Medical Kit Bag on every trip. Eco trained English Speaking professionals guide.
    • Staffs insurance, well-paid salary, equipment, foods & Hotel.
    • Transportation from Kathmandu to Manthali.
    • Worst case, the arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service, if needed (paid by your Travel insurance).
    • Farewell dinner in a famous Nepali restaurant with Nepali culture dance program.

WHAT'S EXCLUDED

  • International airfare & Nepal visa fee.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Porter If needed (One porter between two trekkers is recommended).
  • Personal Insurance & personal expenses.
  • Tips for Guide and Porter (it is expected).
  • Excluded Hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Any thing 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!      

 

1: When is the best time to trek the Everest three pass trek?
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.

2: What about food and accommodations during the Everest three pass trek?
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.

3: Is Everest three pass trek possible with children?
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. 

4: Can we connect this trek with other routes?
Yes, we can combine this route with other treks, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and Gokyo Lake Trek.

5: What happens if we get sick on the way?
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.

6: Can I trek the Everest three passes trek clockwise?
While it is possible to trek the Everest three pass trek clockwise it will be more challenging than the counter clockwise 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 only if you are perfectly fit with a low to zero chance of altitude sickness.

7: How long is the Everest three pass trek?
While the Everest three pass trek is a long trek the time it takes mostly depends on your experience as well as the trekking Itinerary. While directly trekking Everest three Pass Trek from Kathmandu without sightseeing mostly takes about 16 days, the acclimatization days, and weather, affect the number of days you trek.
So, depending on your season, acclimatization routine, and your experience, the Everest three pass trek will take 16 - 20 days.     

8: How hard is the Everest three pass trek?
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

2024-01-06

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.

Daphne Q

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