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Everest Three Passes Trek
Also known as: Everest High Passes Trek
Everest three passes trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you through three of the highest mountain passes in the world, offering stunning views of the majestic Himalayan peaks including Mt. Everest. This trek is not only about conquering the three challenging mountain passes but also about exploring remote Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the region. The trail takes you off the beaten path, through hidden valleys, and over breathtaking high-altitude landscapes. The trek is a true adventure that offers an incredible sense of accomplishment as you conquer each pass, and the memories of the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and challenging experiences will stay with you forever.
Table of contents
GuidesPictures
Itinerary
Route
Difficulty
Weather
Gear
Services
Accommodation
Permits
Access
Videos
Variations
FAQs
Links
Similar
Distances
- 19 - 23 days, 130 km, +9,300 m, 5,546 m high point
- daily: 5 - 9 hours, 5 - 20 km, +300 - 1,200 m gain
Route
- Circuit
- Starting and ending in Lukla
Cost
- $700 - $1,500 solo
- $1,315 - $1,899 guided
When to go
- March to May
- September to November
Permits
- 2 permits are needed
- costing around $50 total
Guide mandatory?
- no
Accommodation
tea houses, lodges, campingGuide links
| Guide | Info | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sherpa Expedition & Trekking | more info | $1,650 |
| Nepal Nirvana Trails | more info | $1,850 |
| White Hill Adventure Treks & Expedition | more info | $1,880 |
| Accessible Adventure | more info | $1,895 |
| Happyland Treks | more info | $1,899 |
| Base Camp Hike | more info | $1,315 |
The Everest Three Passes trek is a challenging and adventurous journey that takes you across three high mountain passes in the Everest region. This itinerary covers the route from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, crossing the Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes, offering breathtaking views and a unique Himalayan experience.
Day 1
Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
Take an early morning scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and begin your trek. Descend to the Dudh Koshi River and follow the trail to Phakding.
Day 2
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +830 m
Cross several suspension bridges and enter Sagarmatha National Park. Ascend steep trails to Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town and the gateway to Everest.
Day 3
Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Spend a day acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar. Explore the town, visit the Sherpa Museum, and enjoy panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Day 4
Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +420 m
Descend to the Dudh Koshi River and trek through rhododendron forests. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, offering stunning mountain vistas.
Day 5
Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m)
Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +550 m
Continue the trek, passing through Pangboche village and ascending to Dingboche, a picturesque village surrounded by mountains.
Day 6
Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410 m)
Take a day to acclimatize in Dingboche. Explore the area, enjoy the scenic beauty, and hike to Nagarjun Hill for stunning views of the Everest region.
Day 7
Trek to Chhukung, Hike to Chhukung Ri (4,730 m)
Distance: 7 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +320 m
Trek to Chhukung, a small settlement at the base of Island Peak. Hike to Chhukung Ri for incredible panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 8
Cross Kongma La Pass, Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m)
Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: +780 m
Cross the challenging Kongma La Pass (5,535m) with stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Descend to Lobuche for overnight stay.
Day 9
Trek to Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Distance: 13 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: +454 m
Trek to Gorak Shep, a frozen lakebed, and continue to Everest Base Camp, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Return to Gorak Shep for overnight stay.
Day 10
Hike to Kala Patthar, Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m)
Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -534 m
Start early to hike to Kala Patthar, a renowned viewpoint offering incredible sunrise views of Everest. Descend to Dzongla for overnight stay.
Day 11
Cross Cho La Pass, Trek to Gokyo (4,750 m)
Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: +920 m
Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m) with breathtaking views. Descend to the beautiful Gokyo Valley, known for its turquoise lakes.
Day 12
Hike to Gokyo Ri (4,750 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 4 hoursElevation change: +290 m
Hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri for mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. Descend to Thagnak, a small settlement nestled in the mountains.
Day 13
Cross Renjo La Pass, Trek to Lungden (4,380 m)
Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: -370 m
Cross the adventurous Renjo La Pass (5,360m) with panoramic views. Descend to Lungden, a remote village in the Everest region.
Day 14
Trek to Thame, Visit Thame Monastery (3,800 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: -580 m
Trek to Thame, a traditional Sherpa village. Visit the Thame Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the Everest region.
Day 15
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: -360 m
Descend through beautiful landscapes, passing by Sherpa settlements, and reach Namche Bazaar. Celebrate the successful completion of the Three Passes trek.
Day 16
Trek to Lukla (2,840 m)
Distance: 13 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: -600 m
Continue the descent, passing through Phakding and finally reaching Lukla. Reflect on the amazing journey and spend the evening in Lukla.
Day 17
Fly to Kathmandu
Take a scenic flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring the city, shopping for souvenirs, and experiencing Nepalese culture.
Typically walked counter clockwise, but both options are good. If adding on Island peak then going clockwise will give more climitisation.
The trek is 7 / 10, based on the below factors:
Terrain & route condition 8 / 10
Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.
Altitude / Elevation 10 / 10
Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.
Distance 9 / 10
The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.
Elevation gain 10 / 10
Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.
Technical difficulty 6 / 10
Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.
Access to facilities / Remoteness 5 / 10
Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.
Climate & weather 7 / 10
How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.
Everest Three Passes Trek weather
How is the weather on Everest Three Passes Trek, and when is the best time to go.
The Everest Three Passes trek can be done throughout the year, but the best time to do it is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally dry and clear with mild temperatures. The months of December to February are very cold and snowy, while June to August is monsoon season with heavy rainfall.
The best time to trek Everest Three Passes Trek is in these months:
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
avoid the summer monsoon (wet and poor visibility), and winter (too cold, snow makes passes near impassable)
Everest Three Passes Trek Services
Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a challenging route that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Along the way, trekkers can find accommodation and food options, as well as hire guides and porters to help them navigate the route safely.
Accommodation
Accommodation options on the Everest Three Passes Trek include tea houses, lodges, and camping. Tea houses and lodges are the most popular option and offer basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and a shared bathroom. Camping is also an option for those who prefer to sleep under the stars.Food
Food is available on the Everest Three Passes Trek, and trekkers can expect to find a variety of dishes, including Nepalese and international cuisine. Tea houses and lodges typically offer three meals a day, while camping meals are prepared by the trekking company or the trekker themselves.Guides
Guides are available for hire on the Everest Three Passes Trek, and the cost varies depending on the level of experience and the services provided. Experienced guides can provide valuable information about the trek, including the best routes, local customs, and safety precautions.Porters
Porters are available for hire on the Everest Three Passes Trek to carry your gear and equipment, and the cost varies depending on the weight of the load and the duration of the trek. Hiring a porter can be a great way to lighten your load and enjoy the trek more fully.Medical facilities
Medical facilities on the Everest Three Passes Trek are limited, and it's important to bring any necessary medication with you. There are a few basic clinics along the route, but for serious injuries or illnesses, evacuation may be necessary.Gear rental
Gear can be rented in Kathmandu or purchased in the local shops along the Everest Three Passes Trek. Renting gear can be a cost-effective option for trekkers who don't want to invest in expensive equipment. Essential gear includes a good pair of hiking boots, warm clothing, and a sleeping bag.Transport
Transport options to the starting point of the Everest Three Passes Trek include a flight to Lukla, followed by a short hike to Phakding. Optional modes of transport along the route include helicopters, which can be used for medical evacuations or to shorten the trek.Internet / Phone
Communication facilities on the Everest Three Passes Trek are limited, and it's important to be prepared. Some tea houses and lodges offer wifi for a fee, but the connection can be slow and unreliable. Mobile phone coverage is also limited in some areas, so it's a good idea to bring a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon.ATMs
ATMs are not available on the Everest Three Passes Trek, and it's important to bring enough cash for the entire trek. Some tea houses and lodges may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand.Shops
There are local shops along the Everest Three Passes Trek where trekkers can purchase food, drinks, and basic supplies. The selection is limited, so it's important to bring any necessary items with you.Everest Three Passes Trek Accomodation
What is the accommodation like treking Everest Three Passes Trek
- Tea Houses: Tea houses are small, family-run guesthouses that are found along the trekking route. They offer basic accommodation with shared bathroom facilities. Tea houses are the most popular option and cost between $5 and $20 per night, depending on the season and the quality of the facilities.
- Lodges: Lodges are similar to tea houses, but offer slightly more luxurious facilities. They typically have private bathrooms and may offer amenities such as hot showers and electricity. Lodges cost between $20 and $50 per night, depending on the season and the quality of the facilities.
- Camping: Camping is an option for those who prefer to sleep under the stars. Trekkers can either bring their own camping gear or rent equipment from a trekking company. Campsites are available along the trekking route, and the cost of camping varies depending on the services provided by the trekking company.
Everest Three Passes Trek permits
What permits are needed for treking Everest Three Passes Trek
To trek the Everest Three Passes route, you will need to obtain several permits. These permits are required to enter certain areas of the Sagarmatha National Park and ensure that trekkers are properly accounted for and protected.
1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- $30 (~3,000 in the local currency)
- This permit is required for entry into the Sagarmatha National Park and covers the cost of park maintenance and conservation efforts.
- Permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or Monjo village.
2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
- $20 (~2,000 in the local currency)
- This permit is required for entry into the Khumbu region and covers the cost of local development projects.
- Permit can be obtained in Lukla or Monjo village.
Everest Three Passes Trek access - getting there
How to get to Everest Three Passes Trek
- Flight to Lukla Airport: The most popular option is to take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport, which is the starting point of the Everest Three Passes trek. Lukla Airport is known for its unique and thrilling landing experience.
- Flight or bus/jeep to Phaplu Airport: Another option is to fly or drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu Airport, which is an alternative starting point for the Everest Three Passes trek. This option is less crowded and offers a different perspective of the region.
- Overland Journey to Jiri: Some trekkers choose to take an overland journey from Kathmandu to Jiri, which adds additional days of trekking to the route. From Jiri, they begin the trek towards Lukla and continue on the Everest Three Passes trail.
- Return Journey: At the end of the trek, trekkers usually retrace their steps and use the same transportation options to return to their starting point.
- Flight from Lukla Airport: Trekkers can take a domestic flight from Lukla Airport back to Kathmandu, providing a convenient and quicker way to return.
- Flight from Phaplu Airport: For those who started the trek from Phaplu, they can take a domestic flight from Phaplu Airport back to Kathmandu.
- Overland Journey from Jiri: If the trek started from Jiri, trekkers have the option to take an overland journey back to Kathmandu, covering the distance by bus or private vehicle.
These are variations on the typical route. Which could be added on; either part way along or at the start / end to extend the trek.
Island Peak Climbing
add 6 - 8 extra days
This trek involves climbing Island Peak (6,189 m), a popular peak in the Everest region. The trek starts from Lukla and follows the typical route until Chhukung, where you will spend a few days acclimatizing and practicing climbing skills. The climb to Island Peak requires technical skills and is considered a beginner mountaineering expedition.
Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek
add 1 extra day
This trek takes you to the base camp of Ama Dablam (6,812 m), a stunning peak located in the Everest region. The trek starts from Lukla and follows the typical route until Pangboche, where you will detour towards Ama Dablam Base Camp. The trek offers breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and other peaks in the region.
Walk in from Salleri
add 3 - 4 extra days
Start at the end of the road in Salleri and walk through lush green forests, slowly winding your way up across beautiful valleys to Lukla. All while crossing over rivers and passing through beautiful remote villages
- 3-4 days extra
- 1500 metres elevation gain
- strenuous but easier than the EBC trek - a nice warm up, or aide to acclimitisaiton
- see a different (far less trafficed) side to the everest trekking region
- path can be very muddy after rains
- cheaper teahouses (accommodation / food) than the Lukla to EBC section.
Walk in from Jira
add 7 - 8 extra days
A similar less touristic low lands entry point to EBC as starting from Salleri but from a different direction. Experience a greener and more authentic side of Nepal before the main EBC route’s tempo sets the pace.
- 7-8 days extra
- 1200 metres elevation gain
- strenuous but easier than the EBC trek - a nice warm up, or aide to acclimatation
- see a different (far less trafficked) side to the Everest trekking region
- follow the original 1950s pioneers route
- cheaper teahouses (accommodation / food) than the Lukla to EBC section.
Everest Three Passes Trek questions
What to know about trekking Everest Three Passes Trek
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
Everest Three Passes Trek Links
useful websites, Groups and communities
Groups / links with more info on the Everest Three Passes Trek route.
Use facebook groups to find up to date info, plan trips and find trekking buddies.
These treks are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Everest Three Passes Trek trek and provide beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure.
