Three Passes Trek Everest

The Three Passes Trek in the Everest region is a challenging and rewarding adventure that takes you through high-altitude passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—offering stunning views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. Experience remote villages, pristine landscapes, and the thrill of crossing rugged terrain in one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes.
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The Three Passes Trek in the Everest region is one of the most exhilarating and challenging trekking routes in Nepal, designed for experienced trekkers seeking a high-altitude adventure. The trek takes you through three major passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—each offering spectacular views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Throughout the trek, you'll pass through remote Sherpa villages, cross glaciers, and trek through alpine forests, with each day offering new challenges and breathtaking scenery. The route also takes you to key destinations such as Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the renowned Gokyo Ri, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Everest massif.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore traditional Sherpa culture, visit Buddhist monasteries, and experience the hospitality of the local communities. The Three Passes Trek is not only physically demanding but also rewarding, offering an immersive experience of Nepal’s rugged beauty and high-altitude trekking.

This trek is ideal for those who want to experience the Everest region beyond the classic route to Base Camp and seek an adventure that combines physical challenge, remote beauty, and cultural richness. Be prepared for high-altitude conditions, steep ascents, and rugged trails, but also for some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the world.

Region
Nepal
Duration
20 Days
Level
hard
Max Altitude
5,535.m
Daily Activity
5 to 6 hours
Season
Sept to Nov and Mar to May
Starting From
$ 2125
The Three Passes trek is the ultimate Everest experience
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Overview
Itinerary
Date/Cost
Includes
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Brief Introduction

The Three Passes Trek in the Everest region is one of the most exhilarating and challenging trekking routes in Nepal, designed for experienced trekkers seeking a high-altitude adventure. This trek takes you through three iconic mountain passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—offering breathtaking panoramic views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

In addition to the challenging passes, the trek leads you to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the summit of Gokyo Ri, where you’ll witness some of the most stunning vistas in the Himalayas. Along the way, you’ll experience the rich Sherpa culture, visit ancient monasteries, and trek through remote villages and pristine wilderness areas.

The Three Passes Trek is perfect for those looking for a comprehensive Everest experience, combining high-altitude adventure, rugged terrain, and cultural exploration in one unforgettable journey.

HIGHLIGHTS OF EVEREST 3 HIGH PASSES TREK
  • Challenging High-Altitude Passes: Conquer the three iconic passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—each offering thrilling challenges and spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
  • Breathtaking Mountain Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other towering peaks, providing some of the most awe-inspiring vistas in the world.
  • Everest Base Camp: Stand at the base of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, and experience the iconic trekking destination that has attracted adventurers from around the globe.
  • Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri: Visit the serene Gokyo Lakes and ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for an incredible bird’s-eye view of the Everest region, including Everest itself.
  • Sherpa Culture: Immerse yourself in the unique Sherpa culture by visiting traditional villages, monasteries, and experiencing the hospitality of the local people.
  • Remote and Less-Trodden Trails: Trek on less crowded, off-the-beaten-path routes that allow you to experience the true wilderness and remote beauty of the Everest region.
  • Varied Landscapes: From alpine forests and glaciers to rocky ridges and high-altitude meadows, the trek offers diverse and stunning landscapes throughout the journey.
  • Wildlife and Flora: Spot rare wildlife such as the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and various bird species, along with diverse alpine flora as you pass through varying ecosystems.
Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 1: Arrival in Kathmandu  
Immediately upon your arrival in Kathmandu, your guide will greet you at the airport with colorful flower chains. You will be taken to your hotel, which is located in the lively tourist center of Thamel and thus within walking distance to the historic old town. Depending on your arrival time, your tour guide can guide you through the narrow streets, giving you a first glimpse of authentic Nepalese life. In the evening, we invite you to a traditional Nepalese welcome dinner at the hotel. # Dinner
Days: 2: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2828m) and trek to Phakding (2600m)  
In the early morning we fly with small aircraft of the airlines Buddha Air or Yeti Air from Kathmandu to Lukla. The 45-minute flight offers spectacular panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan ranges, Langtang, Gauri-Shanker, Numbur, Manglungtse and, to crown it, the Everest mountain range. After landing at Edmund Hillary Airport in Lukla, we drink a fresh, hot coffee while our porters arrive. Our hike begins with a short climb to the Dudh Koshi Valley. From the village of Chaunrikarkar (2621m) the road leads north through quaint Sherpa villages where wheat, potatoes, corn and vegetables are grown. On a suspension bridge we cross the Dudh Koshi and reach Phakding. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 3: Trek from Phakding (2600m) to Namche Bazaar (3446m)  
Today we start slowly up the Dudh Koshi valley. Just before we reach Namche Bazaar we cross the highest suspension bridge, the famous Hillary Bridge. From here you can enjoy a first fantastic view of Thamserku (6608m), Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8511m). After a short but hard climb we reach the capital of the Sherpa country. More than 400 years ago, people from eastern Tibet settled in Namche Bazaar (in Tibetan: Sher = East, Pa = People, Sherpa = People from the East).Situated on a mountainside, the largest market in the upper Solukhumbu area is situated in a picturesque location. Once upon a time countless traders from Tibet arrived here and offered their goods in the largest market of the Khumbu region. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 4: Acclimation Day in Namche Bazaar  
Today's day in Namche Bazaar is at your leisure and is the ideal place to get used to the high altitude. The countless lodges and restaurants invite you to linger. Enjoy in peace the breathtaking mountain landscape and the view of the surrounding fields and plots. On request, we can do a half-day hike to the slightly higher villages Khunde and Khumjung (3780m). In the evening we can admire the sunset over Ama Dablam, Nuptse and Everest. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 5: From Namche Bazaar to Thame (3800m)  
Well acclimatised, we start the day and descend through the forest until we reach the small village of Dramo. From there, head up to Thame, the gateway to Nangpa La Tal. Nangpa La is the traditional link between Tibet and Nepal. This pass once crossed the immigrants from Tibet and gradually settled in this fertile, then barely inhabited mountain region. Today, the Sherpa valleys are known for their numerous native mountaineers. Since the first ascent of Mount Everest by Tenzing Norgay to Apa Sherpa, who climbed the Everest 21 times, were set here by the Sherpa records in the climbing history. In the late afternoon we can do an acclimatization climb to the beautiful monastery above Thames. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 6: From Thame to Sumdur (4803m) and back to Thame  
To perfect our acclimatization, we will climb today Sumdur, a lookout point with stunning panoramic views. We dive into the fabled Nangpa La Valley, where we are close to the border with Tibet. Once at the top there is a phenomenal view of Pasang Lamu Peak, Cho Oyu (8201m) and many 7000 mountain giants. After absorbing these incredible impressions, we return to our lodge in Thame. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 7: Thame to Lungde (4400m)  
Today we climb steadily to Lungde, at the foot of Renjo La. We cross pretty sheep pastures in valleys and enjoy the soothing view of the surrounding peaks. On our trail we encounter Tibetans who descend from Nangpa La to the market of Namche. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 8: From Lungde via Renjo La (5350m) to Gokyo (4790)  
The first pass overpass is approaching today and we start at dawn. We climb steadily for about three hours and reach two beautiful lakes in the middle of a spectacular mountain backdrop. The route becomes steeper and steeper, until we finally reach the top of the pass and are rewarded with a breathtaking 180 ° panoramic view: Cho Oyu, Taboche Peak, Gyachung Kang, Pumori, Everest, Nuptse, Makalu and Cholatse all strung together - stunning alpine aesthetics. Then we descend to Gokyo, the beautiful blue lake constantly in view. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 9: From Gokyo to Dragnag (4690m)  
ll those who are motivated get up at dawn to climb the Gokyo Ri. Definitely worth the sunrise from the roof of the world. Then we cross the beautiful moraine of the Gokyo, where you can see the north face of Cho Oyu. Today's short day is perfect to recover before we attack the Cho La. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 10 From Dragnag via Cho La (5350m) to Dzongla (4840m)  
Our approximately four-hour climb to Cho La begins slowly and becomes steeper. At the pass, a beautiful glacier landscape spreads at the foot of the Lobuche. After a 30-minute descent we reach an almost flat and often snowy area with a phenomenal panorama. From here we descend to Dzongla, which we reach in the afternoon. There is still time for individual exploration in the barren wilderness. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 11: From Dzongla to Lobuche (4940m)  
After a leisurely breakfast with exceptional panoramic views of the spectacular snow-capped peaks, we set off. We descend to the Chola Khola and cross gentle high pastures at the foot of the Khumbu Glacier. On our way we encounter again and again small stone monuments, which were built here in memory of deceased mountaineers. In the late afternoon we reach Lobuche. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 12: From Lobuche (4940m) to Gorak Shep (5140m) and Kala Patthar (5550m)  
From Lobuche a short leg leads us to Gorak Shep. In good weather, we still use the opportunity today and climb the Kala Patthar, probably the most famous vantage point near Everest. The climb is not too demanding, only the height makes it exhausting. In good weather the sunset is an absolute highlight. In bad weather we visit the Everest base camp and experience the unique expedition flair up close. In Gorak Shep we stay in a simple lodge. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 13: From Gorak Shep (5140m) back to Lobuche (4940m)  
Depending on whether we have already boarded the Kala Patthar yesterday, today either the ascent or the visit of the Everest base camp is on the program. Then it's back to Lobuche. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 114: From Lobuche (4940m) via the Kongma La (5535m) to Chhukhung (4730m) Today's route leads us off the usual trekking paths  
into the absolute wilderness. We follow the upper moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Carefully, we work our way forward and cross the glacier until we reach the vicinity of the Nuptse Wall. Now it's time to cross the third and highest pass. We climb steadily up to the Kongma La and are again spoiled with an incomparable mountain panorama. Then our way leads to the village Chhukhung. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 15: From Chhukhung (4730m) to Tengboche (3840m)  
Today we descend the Dhud Khosi valley and soon reach the tree line. Depending on your arrival time, we will visit the famous Buddhist monastery Tengboche in the evening or at the latest in the morning of the next day. The visit to the monastery is the culmination of our extraordinary trekking tour. One last time we enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery and the view of the Ama Dablam. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 16: From Tengboche (3840m) to Namche Bazaar (3446m)  
First, we descend through romantic rhododendron forests following the Dhud Khosi down into the valley. Then we reach a mountain trail with a magnificent view of the Everest valley. Numerous grazing mountain goats lead us back to the capital of the Sherpa, Namche Bazaar. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 17: From Namche Bazaar (3446m) to Lukla (2828m)  
On our way back, packed with wonderful memories of our Himalayan adventure, we again cross the Hillary Bridge. Our path leads over more suspension bridges and through several traditional villages like Monjo, Jorsale and Banker. We leave the high mountains surrounded by white peaks and return to the lush, Nepalese low mountain range. In the evening we reach Lukla. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 18: From Lukla (2828m) to Kathmandu  
In the early morning we fly with small aircraft of the airlines Buddha Air or Yeti Air from Lukla to Kathmandu. The panoramic flight (about 45 minutes) always leads along the Himalayan ridge, so that you can enjoy impressive views of the mountain giants in good weather. In Kathmandu transfer to the hotel. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 19: Free Day in Kathmandu  
Day in Kathmandu at leisure Take time for your last shopping or sightseeing. Farewell dinner together with the guide. # Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 20: Fly back to Kathmandu  
In the morning, we fly back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for you to do your own thing. As the trip has finally come to an end, you may do some souvenir shopping as a memory. Later, pack your bags to return to their respective destinations. Overnight in a hotel
Reservation & Date
Friday
01 Sep 2023
Thursday
30 Nov 2023
$275 Off
$2125
$2400
12 Seats
Available
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Inclusion/ Exclusion

Inclusion/Exclusion

Services Included
  • Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek and hotel stays in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
  • Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Permits: Everest National Park Permit, TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, and necessary permits for the trek.
  • Guide and Porters: Experienced, licensed trekking guide and necessary porter(s) with their food, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Transportation: Domestic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and return, along with ground transportation to and from the trek starting point and back.
  • First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit for emergencies during the trek.
  • Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags and down jackets (if required, to be returned after the trek).
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Guided city tour of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites (if included in the itinerary).
  • Safety Equipment: Emergency rescue arrangements and oxygen supply, if needed.
Services Excluded
  • International Flights: Airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees and processing costs.
  • Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, personal trekking gear, hot showers, charging devices, and Wi-Fi services.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuation (including medical and rescue coverage).
  • Climbing Gear: Personal climbing gear (e.g., harness, boots, etc.) not included in the trek package and must be brought by the trekker.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and other trekking staff.
  • Optional Activities: Additional sightseeing tours or activities in Kathmandu or along the trek route.
  • Unforeseen Costs: Expenses arising from unforeseen events such as natural disasters, flight delays, or other emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The Three Passes Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its high-altitude passes, rugged trails, and long trekking days. It is suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience.