Everest Three Passes Trek

The combined trek of three popular passes like Renjo La Pass, Chola Pass and Kongma La Pass

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 102
Best Season

Spring & Autumn

Trip Grade

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Max Altitude

Kongma La Pass (5,535/18,159ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

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Introduction

The Everest Three Passes Trek is a challenging and rewarding trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal that takes you over the three highest passes in the area: Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters/18,159 feet), Cho La Pass (5,420 meters/17,782 feet), and Renjo La Pass (5,340 meters/17,520 feet). Along the way, you will also climb to the top of Kalapatthar (5,545 meters/18,187 feet) for breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known areas of the Khumbu region, including the Nangpa La valley, the Sherpa village of Marlung, and the Monastery village of Thame. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unparalleled views of the Himalayas, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a dream come true for adventurous trekkers.

Everest Three Pass Trek Overview

The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and continues through the beautiful Phakding village and the historical town of Namche Bazaar. From there, the route winds its way through the region in a clockwise direction, crossing the three high passes of Renjo La (5,370 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Kongmala La (5,545 meters) before reaching the summit of Kalapatthar (5,545 meters/18,187 feet) and GokyoRi (5,483 meters/17,984 feet).

 

Along the way, trekkers will also visit the Gokyo Valley and the stunning Gokyo lakes, as well as the Ngozumpa Glacier. The stunning Gokyo valley is seen like a piece of heaven and the crystalline Gokyo lakes along with Ngozumpa Glacier appears to be magnificent. The special thing about this trek is we can unfold the panorama of the whole Khumbu region. Each small settlement in Khumbu region itself is the most captivating thing and the majestic beauty is unparallel with any other area.

 

The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse cultures and traditions of the Khumbu region, as well as its rich wildlife, including over 118 species of birds, endangered animals such as the Red Panda and Snow Leopard, and the Himalayan Tahr, Ghoral, Serow, and Himalayan black bear.

 

Trekkers will also have the chance to experience the warm hospitality of the local communities and to learn about their ancient Tibetan crafts and traditional housing and clothing. With its combination of stunning mountain views, rich culture, and diverse wildlife, the Everest Three Passes Trek is the ultimate adventure for trekkers in search of the ultimate trekking experience.

Trip Highlights:

  • Everest Three Passes Trek is more adventurous and physical demanding trip than any other trekking routes of Everest region. After a short take-off and landing from Kathmandu to Lukla(2,800m/9,184ft altitude), the journey begins.
  • The Three Passes trek is the utmost Everest experience as it ahead from north west to east in circular direction covering the three high passes. Namely – Renjo La(5,370m), Cho La(5,420m) and Kongmala La(5,545m) along with Kalapatthar (5,545 m) and  Everest Base Camp (5,380m).
  • Passing through Renjo La Pass (5,360m/17,581ft), Travellers get to enjoy at one of the highest settlements of Nepal, the beautiful Gokyo valley (4,750 m/15,580 ft) and GokyoRi (5,357 m) which the only place where we get to see astonishing view of the four highest Mountain in the world – Mt. Everest, (8,848m), Mt. ChoOyu (8,210m), Mt Lhotse (8,516m) and Mt Makalu (8,485m). Also the mesmerizing world's highest freshwater lake system, Gokyo lake makes everyone wonderstruck.
  • The traveller can explore one of the captivating sections of Himalaya such as Tengboche monastery, the oldest Sherpa celibate monastery, lifestyle of Sherpa and monks during the adventure. Here, the tradition, culture, arts and lifestyle is unlike any other places thus it exhilarate them to learn more about the community.
  • This route is home to a diverse range of Flora and Fauna than any other places. The forest in this area is a home for about 118 species of birds such as Himalayan monal, blood pheasant, red-billed cough, some rare mammal species including musk deer, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear and red panda.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) and transfer to Hotel.

Adventure Mountain Nepal Trekking and Climbing’s airport arrival and departure representative will meet you at the airport as per your arrival schedule. He/she welcomes and drives you to the hotel. Check-in hotel and take a rest or relaxation time at Hotel. Then you can have a free excursion to know the surroundings and visit our office to get brief information of Everest High Three Passes Trek, we also conduct an introduction program with the trekking leader and official team.

Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2800m/9184ft) (45 min flight) & Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2640m/8659ft) (3 hrs trek).

Early in the morning drive to Domestic terminal of Tribhuwan airport. Take a flight for about 30 minutes to Tenzing Hillary airport Lukla- is the beautiful valley which is surrounded by High Mountain and hills from all direction. Make sure the backpacks and all stuffs fully arranged to get started the trek towards Phakding. The easy and scenic trail follows soft descends to the bank of Dudh Koshi River, follow the river bank of the river before we reach at Ghat. After there, we continuously walk gentle ascend to Phakding. We visit several Gompas, Monasteries and beautiful stone carving (written Buddhist scripts) all the way to Phakding.

Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

Early breakfast at the teahouse. Follow ascent trail through a pine forest. We have to cross several suspension bridges over Dudh Koshi River, gradually walk via Benkar, Chumoa and Monjo to reach at check post of Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park where we have to record our National Park entry permit. With a walk of zigzag ascends and descends, mostly uphill takes us towards the capital of Sherpa people at Namche Bazaar. We can have a beautiful view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru Peak and other wonderful peaks.

Day 04: Rest day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and excursion around the places.

As we are already at above 3,000 meters from sea level at Namche Bazaar, it is a perfect way to acclimatize by resting and exploring around at Namche Bazaar before ascending towards more altitudes. As per health experts suggests, keep moving and stay active to adopt with the weather. Today we ascend towards Syangboche View Point to have excellent views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru and other snow-capped peaks. Again, we continue the walk with continuous scenery towards Everest View Hotel; it is a good place to have refreshment drink with the views in our surroundings. After there we go to explore an important Buddhist monastery of the region at Khumjung Monastery, then back to Namche Bazzar. At the evening, we can explore around the Bazaar, can use ATMs, use internet cyber, cafes and restaurants to be close with locals as well as learn unique culture, tradition and lifestyles of Sherpa’s.

Day 05: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3,739m/12,395ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

After having a day of rest and acclimatization at Namche, we feel physically and mentally fit to continue the walk towards Thame, at the beginning we turn west to start an ascend of Bhote Koshi Valley. While continuing the old trade route into Tibet, we cross through impressively fluttering prayer flags, several Mani walls, the wonderful stone carving, et cetera. Once we reach up to Bhote Koshi Valley, we shortly continue the steep climb all the way to Thame Village. At evening, we can go to explore Thame monastery, located above from the village where Sherpa people’s famous festival “Mani Rimdu” performs annually in the sprung time.

Day 06: Trek from Thame to Lungdhen (4,380m/14,266ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

After having breakfast, we start the trek initially following rather easy trail that continues through banks of the Bhote Koshi. After crossing the river and walk for around an hour we reach at a charming village of Marlung, again continue the trek that goes to Lungden. It is a beautiful place with great scenery of Himalayas and few numbers of tea house lodges.

Day 07: Trek from Lungden to Gokyo via Renjo La Pass (5,360m/17,581ft) (6-7 hrs walk).

It is an important day of our entire Gokyo EBC Trek with Cho La & Renjo La pass that we will cross our first pass Renjo La at 5,435MASL. After having very early morning breakfast, we ascend towards Sandy Kharka. Walk through the edge of glaciers and climb through stone steps before reaching at the Pass. View from the pass is really stunning. Shortly, the trail follows downhill through a rocky and icy spur to the Gokyo Valley.

Day 08: Morning ascend to GokyoRi (5,483m/17,984ft) and back to Gokyo. Full day excursion around the Gokyo Valley.

Before having breakfast early morning (around 4 AM) we start ascend of Gokyo Ri which takes three hours gradual ascend from the village. Gokyo Ri, also known as Gokyo peak is most probably the best viewpoint of Khumbu and Everest region, once we reach at the top of the rock of Gokyo Ri we will be rewarded by 360-degree views of world’s towering mountain ranges including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and many more snow-capped peaks. After spending an hour of time at there, we safely retrace our steeps back to Gokyo. Remaining times of the day we explore around the biggest glacial or Nepal–Ngozumpa glacier as well as make a tour to other lakes excursion.

Day 09: Trek from Gokyo to Dragnag (4,650m/15,252ft) (3-4 hrs walk).

This day has a shorter trek than usual days From Gokyo, you start out with a gentle hike along with beautiful blue lakes – the Gokyo Tsho (4734 m) and the Taboche Tsho (4728 m) then, again explore the smaller Langpungu Tsho lake. This is where the trail to the Cho La forks to the west, and you scale the lateral moraine of the vast Ngozumba glacier. Move towards the rock-filled glacial stream, which dimensions might vary according to the seasons. Finally, you will reach Dragnag and relax overnight.

Day 10: Trek from Dragnag to Dzongla (4,843m/15,885ft) via Chola pass (5,368m/17,607ft) (6-7 hrs walk).

After having an early morning breakfast (around 4 AM), we leave from tea house at Daragang since we have to cross the adventurous pass before sun light melts the snow. We gradually follow ascend along the valley towards Cho La Pass. Cho La Pass is usually covered by blue ice over the rocks from where we have a really close- up views of Himalayas. After having a short and memorable time at the top, our trail immediately follows gradual descends all the way to another charming Sherpa village of Dzongla.

Day 11: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,928m/16,164ft) (4-5 hrs walk).

After taking breakfast at Dzongla, we start the walk, this day also we are not going to walk too long to give accompany of recent hard physical workout for Cho La Pass. Our scenic trail goes with numerous numbers of time ups and down with continuous views of Mt. Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam et cetera. Lobuche is always busy during the time of season because it is a main stop of Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar trail.

Day 12: Trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,160m/16,925ft) & continue to Everest Base Camp (5,380m/17,646ft) then back to Gorakshep (6-7 hrs walk).

Early morning breakfast at the teahouse. Today’s trail leads to our core destination. We cross moraine of Khumbu glacier, pass through pyramid sign on the way from where you can observe Mt. Everest, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Langtern, Mt. Khumbutse, and Mt. Nuptse. Then again we follow a small trail to Thangma Riju form where we perceive 360 degree vista of Snowy Mountain. Then climb steeply trail to reach at Gorakshep where we find Show Mountains in all direction including Mt. Everest & Pumori. Gorakshep is our today’s stop for dinner and overnight. Take off our backpacks and heavy stuffs at a tea house and start a journey towards Everest Base Camp. After having a great time at Everest Base Camp, we retrace our steeps back to Gorakshep for the overnight stay.

Day 13: Morning climb to Kalapatthar (5,545m/18,187ft) and back to Gorakshep. Then trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,104ft) (5-6 hrs walk).

We start the trek early in the morning at around 4:00 A.M. to Kalapathar for a sunrise view over the Himalayas. We walk continuously uphill for around 2 hours to reach Kala Pathar. When the first ray of sun strike the mountain it turns into Golden color which seems pretty amazing. Take a picture of golden Mountain and soaring around Kala Patthar return back to Gorakshep for breakfast. Then we start gradual descend trail all the way to Lobuche.

Day 14: Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730m/15,514ft) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m/18,154ft altitude) (7-8 hrs walk).

Today, we are going to cross last but not the least pass of our Everest High Three Passes Trek, which is the highest pass among all three passes. We start the walk early in the morning by following the trail that heads eastwards along the side of Khumbu Glacier. Once we cross the small river that comes from Khumbu Glacier, we will shortly follow gradual ascend all the way to Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters. View of high mountains and valley views are really stunning. After making the footprints at the top of the Pass, we start descend towards beautiful valley of Glaciers at Chhukung.

Day 15: Trek from Chhukung to Pangboche (3,985m/13,071ft) (4-5 hrs walk).

After breakfast, leaving Chhukung valley, we walk through easy and scenic trail to Pangboche. Along the trail, we pass through numerous numbers of ice streams. When we reach at near to Dingboche, we walk along the stone-walled alpine landscapes. Once our trail merges into the main trail of Everest Base Camp at Dingboche, we continue not more than one hour to reach the small settlement of Pangboche.

Day 16: Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar. (5-6 hrs walk).

Leaving Pangboche, we follow soft descend to Tyangboche then again to descend and straight trail all the way to Namche Bazaar. Along the trail we pass through few villages, spectacular scenery of mountains, landscapes as well as flora and fauna.

Day 17: Trek from Namche Bazar to Lukla. (5-6 hrs walk).

After breakfast, we gradually trek back to Lukla via Monjo and Phakding – the same place we used to begin the trek. The trail is always busy during the time of season with the movement of several trekkers and climbers. At evening, celebrate the occasion of adventure trekking trip by gathering together all hosts and guests.

Day 18: Early morning fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel. Full day free for personal activities.

Early morning breakfast at the lodge. Walk to Lukla airport for schedule flight. Adventure Mountain Nepal Trekking and Climbing’s airport arrival and departure representative will meet you at the Kathmandu airport. Drive to the hotel. At the evening feel free for leisure and personal activities such as Shopping, markets explore, spa, massage, rest and relax can be an option.

Day 19: Spare day. Free for personal activities or sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.

This is a day as a spare which can be spent with rest, relaxation and free walk around the market. Day trip in request: Sightseeing, Meditation, Rafting, Paragliding, Short Hiking, Mountain flight and other activities can be done according to you plan. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner together with an entire team of Adventure Mountain Nepal.

Day 20: Farewell, departure transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport.

Our airport arrival and departure representative will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport on your scheduled flight.

 

Remember:

Our travel planner can customize the itinerary outline as per your duration of stay, purpose of holiday and your preference. Cost of the package also depends upon level of service (deluxe, standard & budget) and as per the group size. You can easily CONTACT US at any time for any queries.

Cost & Dates

Inclusions:

  • Required numbers of time Airport pick up and drop off as per your flight schedule (international and domestic) including all required transfers in Kathmandu.
  • 3 Night’s accommodation in touristic town of Kathmandu in BB Plan (one can choose budget, standard and deluxe)
  • A day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle, highly experienced city tour guide.
  • All the entrance fees of UNESCO heritage sites.
  • Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu both way flight ticket.
  • Standard tea house (lodge) accommodation during the entire trekking as per mentioned in itinerary
  • Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the entire trek as per mentioned in itinerary followed by 3 times tea/coffee per day. One can choose the meal from menu there.
  • A duffel bag, Trekking Map and trekking pole Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Nepali SIM card (Rental basis, if needed)
  • Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park Fee
  • TIMS (Trekker’s Information Manual System) permit
  • An experienced government certified local Trekking Guide
  • Required numbers of highly experienced trekking porters (2:1 ratio)
  • Staff’s foods, salary, insurance, accommodation, meals, transportation etc
  • General first Aid Kit
  • A certificate of appreciation (experience certificate) after completing the Trek
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program.
  • All government taxes and applicable paperwork

Exclusions:

  • International Airfare
  • Personal Travel Insurance (essential for high altitude trekking)
  • Lunch in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses for bar, laundry, personal shopping, internet usages, hot shower and battery charge during the trek.
  • Alcoholic beverage
  • TIPS for Staff

Tour Map

Additional Information

How Difficult is it to Trek Everest Three Pass ?

Everest three pass is considered as fairly-strenuous trek. This is the most demanding trek among Everest region treks as it crosses all of the three highest passes in Nepal. The highest altitude we will ascend during this trek is GokyoRi (5,483m/17,984ft). This trek can be done the one who is physically fit, have previous trekking experience above 4500m and can walk 6hrs per day.

Which is the best time for Everest Three Pass Trek ?

The best time for trekking Everest Three Pass is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). Spring is the time of festivals and celebration also during these seasons temperatures are mild, the weather is relatively stable, and the clear surrounding makes it possible to view mountains.

Do I need to have Travel Insurance during Trek ?

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies or as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

Who are my Guides ?

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

What if I cancel the trip , do I get my refund ?

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

Can I charge my mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek ?

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring your power bank with you which will be helpful.

What is the Accommodation Like ?

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Everest Region trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude places like Gorakshep the service will be limited.

Is the Internet accessible during Everest Three Pass Trek ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during the Everest Three Pass Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited wifi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured ?

We hire our sfaffs according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

Everest three pass Trek Vs Everest Base Camp Trek, Which one to choose ?

As we know Everest Base Camp Trek has left a mark on world trekking history as it is the trekking up to world highest mountain Everest’s base camp. There is no restriction in selecting any of the trek but we recommend you to do Everest Base Camp Trek if you are a rookie. Technically Everest Three Pass Trek requires more effort and stamina then Everest Base Camp Trek so it is better to choose Everest base camp trek if you don’t have any experience else you can choose Everest three pass trek. Thus, It is up to you to consider, if you need any help regarding this kind of issue you can contact us.

Is it better to do three passes trek clockwise or anticlockwise?

Doing this trek anticlockwise is up to now the most practiced route in keeping with the acclimatize level and secure direction to the passes. Beginning from Kongma la and finishing at Renjo la will gradually take you alongside Everest Base Camp. Kalapatthar, Chola bypass, Gokyo lakes, Gokyo Ri and Renjo la bypass respectively. As for acclimatization, taking an extra day in Dingboche (4410m/14468 ft) and heading to Kongma la(5480m/17979 ft) through Chhakung (4600m/15091 ft) is flawlessly planned for excessive altitude walk. In case you begin the 3 passes from Renjo la the alternative way, you would have acclimatization at (3700m/12139ft) in Lumde and go the (5360m/17585ft) high pass with quite a few ascend, which is a whole lot tougher than the anticlockwise route.

Everest three pass Trek Vs Everest Base Camp Trek, Which one to choose ?

As we know Everest Base Camp Trek has left a mark on world trekking history as it is the trekking up to world highest mountain Everest’s base camp. There is no restriction in selecting any of the trek but we recommend you to do Everest Base Camp Trek if you are a rookie. Technically Everest Three Pass Trek requires more effort and stamina then Everest Base Camp Trek so it is better to choose Everest base camp trek if you don’t have any experience else you can choose Everest three pass trek. Thus, It is up to you to consider, if you need any help regarding this kind of issue you can contact us.

Which are the three highest passes of Everest region?

  • Kongma La Pass (5,535/18,159ft)
  • Cho La Pass (5420m/17,782ft) and
  • Renjo La Pass (5,340m/17,520ft)

How far or long does it take to trek Everest three passes and back ?

Everest Three Passes Trek is a more adventurous and physically demanding trip than any other trekking routes of Everest region which offers all the best of khumbu region. Generally, The standard trekking Itinerary for three pass trek is of 20 days from arrival to departure. This trek can be done clockwise or anti clockwise. The highest altitude you will be during this trek is Kongma La Pass (5,535/18,159ft) and you have to trek 6-7 hrs per day.

What are the permits required for Everest Three Pass Trek ?

The permits required for Everest Three Pass Trek are:

  • An entry permit into the Sagarmatha national park or conservation area.
  • Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit

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