Everest Three High Passes Trek

The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes you beyond the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, offering a thrilling adventure through the beautiful Gokyo Valley. This challenging trek crosses three high […]

18 Days
15 - 20 KM Per Day
Tea House
Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu
Min 2 to Max 10 Pax in a group
Domestic Flight (KTM - Lukla - Kathmandu) and Private Vehicle
challenging

Highlights

  • Witnessing breathtaking Himalayan sunrises and sunsets with views of snow-capped peaks from Kala Patthar.
  • Trekking across three high mountain passes in the region.
  • Visiting Everest Base Camp, where climbers set up colorful tents.
  • Enjoying a scenic mountain flight with stunning vistas of the majestic mountains.
  • Exploring Namche Bazaar and the surrounding areas.

Overview

The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes you beyond the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, offering a thrilling adventure through the beautiful Gokyo Valley. This challenging trek crosses three high passes—Kongma La (5,550 m), Renjo La (5,360 m), and Cho La (5,420 m). Perfect for adventure seekers eager to test their limits, the journey includes a visit to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the stunning Gokyo Lakes (4,700 m-5,000 m), and a summit of Kala Patthar (5,643 m).

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is the ultimate challenge in the Khumbu region, offering an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers. It is an incredibly adventurous and demanding route, not suitable for beginners. Moreover, attempting the trek alone is highly risky and not recommended.

The trail meanders from the lush forests of Sagarmatha National Park to the alpine zone, where you’ll encounter picturesque waterfalls, streams, suspension bridges, and remote mountain villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle, with overnight stays in charming villages. Stop by ancient monasteries and stupas, and let the fluttering prayer flags and vibrant prayer wheels guide you on your journey.

As you trek along this incredible route, the awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas will surround you, creating a sense of endless adventure. For those looking to customize their journey, we offer tailor-made itineraries for the Three High Passes Trek, as well as budget-friendly options. Contact us to book your trek, and for more details, check our Everest Three Passes Trek map.

Itinerary

If you're looking for a tailor-made trip or wish to customize this itinerary, feel free to reach out to us. We're always here to help you craft the perfect holiday experience. Contact us today!

Day 01

Arriving In Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you. You'll be transferred to your hotel in a private tourist car. After settling in, you can choose to relax or visit our office to go over the Three High Passes Everest Trek itinerary.
Day 02

Flight from Kathmandu (1400m) to Lukla (2840m) then Trek to Phakding (2610m)

Your Three Passes Everest Trek begins with a scenic 30 to 40-minute flight from Tribhuvan International Airport to Lukla. This breathtaking flight offers stunning views of the Langtang and Annapurna Himalayan ranges. From Lukla, you'll descend towards the Thado Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. After about an hour of gentle descent, you'll reach Chheplung village, where you can enjoy views of Mt. Khumbila (5,761 m), a sacred peak that remains unclimbed. As you acclimate, the trek becomes more enjoyable. Continuing downhill from Chheplung, you'll arrive in Phakding, where you can visit Pemacholing and Rimishung Monastery.
Day 03

Trek from Phakding (2610m) to Monjo (2835m) then Namche Bazaar (3440m)

After breakfast in Phakding, you’ll continue along the Everest Three High Passes route. The trail features a mix of ascents, descents, and multiple river crossings, with a stunning view of Mt. Thamserku (6,608 m) from Bengkar village. Passing through Monjo, you'll enter Sagarmatha National Park, where you'll register your permits before heading into dense forests and rugged terrain. As you trek, you'll catch your first glimpse of Mt. Everest from the forest. After passing through Jorsale, you'll cross the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge and finally reach Namche Bazaar, offering breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Tawache, and more.
Day 04

Acclimatization and Rest Day at Namche Bazaar (3440m)

Today is your first acclimatization day in the heart of the Khumbu region. It's a time to relax and let your body adjust to the high altitude. Namche Bazaar offers plenty to explore, including the Sagarmatha National Park visitor center, traditional Sherpa villages, Hillary School, Khumjung Monastery, Syangboche Airport, and the Everest View Hotel. Staying active is key, even if you remain in Namche. The town provides various amenities such as banks, ATMs, and cyber cafés. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum, interact with the local community, take a hike to Thamo, or explore Khunde.
Day 05

Trek from Namche Bazaar (3440m) to Tengboche (3860m)

After breakfast in Namche, your Three High Passes Trek continues toward Tengboche. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. The trail, a mix of smooth paths and occasional zigzags, offers glimpses of local wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and vibrant pheasants. As you walk through pine forests and cross a prayer flag-adorned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, you'll reach Phungi Thanga—a small village with teahouses and an army post nestled in the alpine forest. Upon reaching Tengboche, don't miss the chance to visit its famous monastery and witness a traditional monk ceremony.
Day 06

Trek from Tengboche (3860m) to Dingboche (4410m)

Today on the Everest 3 High Passes Trek, you'll be treated to a stunning sunrise over the mountain landscape, featuring views of Kangtega, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Taboche, Kwangde, Tengboche, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Your day starts with a hike along the Imja Khola, leading you to Tengboche. From there, you'll descend to the riverbank through rhododendron and birch forests. You'll stop at a Buddhist nunnery in Deboche before crossing a few chortens on the way to Pangboche, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas. As you continue from Pangboche, you'll notice the vegetation thinning as you move into the dry, alpine landscape of Shomare. From Orsho, you'll catch a glimpse of Mt. Pumori's coronal ridge before reaching the cold and windy village of Dingboche, where you'll spend the night.
Day 07

Trek from Dingboche (4410m) to Chhukung (4730m)

Your journey across the three high passes continues through the Imja Khola Valley, surrounded by towering peaks and glacial moraines. You'll follow the valley for the next 3 to 4 hours, with stunning views of Lhotse and Ama Dablam flanking both sides. As you reach yak Bibre, the herders' settlement, the terminal moraine offers a glimpse of Imja Tse’s rocky and icy summit. A short 30-minute hike from Bibre brings you to Chhukung, where you can enjoy views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. Once in Chhukung, take some time to relax or hike up to Chhukung Ri for even more breathtaking vistas to help prepare you for the ascent of Kongma-la Pass the next day.
Day 08

Trek from Chhukung (4730m) to Lobuche (4910m) via Kongma La Pass (5540m)

On this day, you'll venture into the isolated alpine hinterlands, where teashops are scarce, so make sure to bring plenty of water. You have two options: climb the slope northwest of Chhukung to the Nuptse glacier, or take a stroll down to the Bibre valley and follow the high path above Niyang Khola. After a short walk, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of Island Peak Valley and the Stony Peak of Amphu Lapcha. Continuing on a rocky trail, you'll reach a vast basin scattered with ice lakes on the east side of Niyang Khola valley. After a 5-hour hike, you'll ascend the Kongma La Pass, the highest of Everest's three high passes, before leaving Chhukung. The iconic prayer flags at the summit mark the pass, visible only if you make it to the top. The toughest part of today’s journey is the descent, which involves a steep climb up the moraine on the far side, followed by a northward trek along the Khumbu glacier route. This will eventually lead you to Lobuche, the final destination for today’s trek across the three high passes.
Day 09

Trek from Lobuche (4910m) to Gorak Shep (5140m) then Everest Base Camp (5364m)

The 3 High Passes trek will take you across the Khumbu Glacier's moraine towards Gorakshep. As you pass the pyramid landmark, you'll be treated to a stunning view of Everest’s north ridge, along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, and Mt. Nuptse. After reaching Thangma Riju, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama of snow-covered peaks. From the summit of the Changri Glacier, you’ll have a clear view of Kalapatthar, a grassy meadow beneath Mt. Pumori. Upon reaching Gorakshep, you'll be greeted by an impressive sight of snow-capped mountains, including the towering Mount Everest. Continuing through Gorak Shep Lake, you’ll pass memorials honoring Indian army mountaineers before reaching Everest Base Camp. As you approach the base, the treacherous Khumbu Icefall trail will become clear. Although Everest itself is not visible from the base, the breathtaking views of Nuptse and Khumbutse above the brightly colored tents are equally captivating. This marks the pinnacle of your journey. You’ll then spend the night in Gorak Shep.
Day 10

Trek from Gorekhshep (5140m) to Kalapatthar (5555m) then Dzongla (4830m)

This marks the pinnacle of your Everest 3 High Passes trek, starting with a leisurely walk to witness the breathtaking sunrise from Kalapatthar. After a few hours of trekking, you'll reach Kalapatthar, where you can sit and indulge in a mesmerizing view of the Himalayas. From this 360-degree viewpoint, you'll catch sight of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumo Ri, Ama Dablam, Khangtenga, Lobuche Peak, Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Glacier, and Icefalls. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and photos. After soaking in the scenery, head back to Gorakshep, pack up, and retrace your steps to Lobuche. From there, continue along the scenic route to Dzongla.
Day 11

Trek from Dzongla (4830m) to Thagnak (4750m) via Cho La Pass (5367m)

To catch the breathtaking view of Cholatse, an early start is essential. The most challenging part of the Everest 3 High Passes trek begins as you pass through Dzongla, navigating through spurs of woodland before descending into a basin. Upon your climb back up, you’re rewarded with stunning vistas of Chola Lake and Mt. Ama Dablam. The steep ascent becomes more challenging due to rocky terrain, leading to the winding Bergschrund pathways. At the summit, you’re surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks, all framed by fluttering prayer flags. The descent to Thagnak is fairly straightforward, unless the rocks are icy, making the path dangerous. You’ll rest for the night in Thagnak.
Day 12

Trek from Thagnak (4700m) to Gokyo (4750m)

You'll need to leave the small settlement early in the morning to continue on the Three High Passes Trek, passing through Nepal's longest glacier, the Ngozumpa Glacier. As you make your way to the other side of the glacier, you’ll catch a glimpse of the second Gokyo Lake, part of a series of six. Gokyo village is situated near the third lake, which is located just beside the second.
Day 13

Acclimatization in Gokyo (4750m) and Hike to Gokyo Ri (5357m)

The acclimatization day offers the perfect opportunity to hike up Gokyo Ri, one of the best vantage points for views of the Everest region and the surrounding lakes. The fourth lake, nestled 3 kilometers north of Gokyo, is framed by towering cliffs and peaks. From here, the trail continues to the fifth lake, the largest and most striking with its brilliant azure hue. You can even climb the slopes beside the lake for spectacular views of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. Further beyond the fifth lake lies Cho-Oyu Base Camp, offering an awe-inspiring panorama. Depending on your energy and time, you may choose to visit the sixth lake. This is the second acclimatization day on the Everest Three High Passes Trek Itinerary.
Day 14

Trek from Gokyo (4750m) to Marulung (4210m) via Renjo La Pass (5360m)

In the early morning, you’ll start your hike towards Renjola Pass, taking a detour from the main Gokyo Valley route to follow the Renjola trail through Dudh Pokhari. After a 3-hour trek, you'll be greeted with stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, and Taboche. This section is challenging, but the reward at the top is a panoramic 360-degree vista of Mt. Cho-Oyu and other towering peaks. Continuing along the Three High Passes Everest Trek, the path descends to Angladumba Tsho. Further on, you’ll pass Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake, then navigate a small valley filled with large boulders before reaching Lumde. After about an hour’s trek, you'll arrive in Marlung village, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 15

Trek from Marulung (4210m) to Thame (3750m) then back to Khumjung (3,790m)

Your Three High Passes trek will descend from Marlung to Thame, a historic route used by Tibetan traders for centuries. You'll pass through Bhote Koshi, descend to Taranga, and reach Langmuche Khola. From the lodges near Thame’s famous Buddhist Gompa, enjoy breathtaking views of peaks like Thamserku, Katenga, and Kusum Kangguru. Cross the bridge to reach Samde, where you'll be treated to more stunning mountain vistas. The steep trail leads to Thamo, home to the Khari Goma Monastery, which is also a nunnery. Continuing on, you’ll visit the world’s highest power plant, built with Australian support, before passing through Phurte and witnessing the Laudo Monastery. Finally, after passing several gompas, prayer flags, Chorten, and Mani stones, you’ll arrive in Namche.
Day 16

Trek from Khumjung to Namche (3440m) to Phakding (2610m)

On the final day of your Everest Three High Passes adventure, you'll trek from Namche to Lukla. The descent is tough, with steep slopes and shaky legs as you make your way toward the airport area. Cross the Dudh Koshi bridge slowly, entering the alpine forest, and take your time. After passing the suspension bridges over the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail flattens, leading you through broad plains, rhododendron, and pine forests, all framed by distant snow-capped peaks. As you approach Lukla, you'll pass Buddhist walls and monasteries, a testament to the region’s strong spiritual heritage.
Day 17

Phakding to Lukla

Today, you'll fly back to Kathmandu on a scenic journey. Due to unpredictable weather conditions, such as strong winds or low visibility, flights from Lukla to Kathmandu are usually scheduled in the morning. Flights may be delayed or canceled because of adverse weather in Lukla or other unforeseen factors. It's always a good idea to keep an extra day in your itinerary as a buffer, which allows you to adjust for any changes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu and after completing your adventurous trek, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing, sightseeing, or celebrating your achievement. You’ll stay overnight at your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner in Thamel, marking the successful completion of the Everest Three High Pass trek.
Day 18

Fly Lukla to Kathmandu

Today is the penultimate day before your departure from Kathmandu. Our assistant will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the international terminal of the airport three hours before your flight's scheduled departure. If you'd like to extend your trip, feel free to choose a different package.
Day 19

Final Departure

Inclusions

What's included

  • All (international and domestic) airport transfers in a tourist vehicle
  • Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel for 2 nights in Kathmandu, including breakfast (Private room accommodation can be arranged at an extra cost)
  • Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation during the trek for 11 nights in the Everest Region, with attached toilets in Lukla, Phakding, and Namche
  • All standard meals during the trek (11 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 11 dinners), including one hot drink and seasonal fruits
  • Experienced, first-aid-trained, government-licensed, English-speaking, and locally recruited Sherpa Adventure trekking guide (2 guides for groups of more than 7 people)
  • Permits for Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
  • Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
  • Purified drinking water during the trek using a water filter or water purification tablets
  • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
  • Kathmandu–Manthali–Kathmandu transportation by shared tourist vehicle
  • 1 Sherpa Adventure duffel/kit bag, trekking map, sun hat, Buff (neck gaiter), and trip completion certificate
  • A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes

What's not included

  • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
  • International flight fare and airport departure tax
  • Any beverages, including bottled and boiled water
  • Travel insurance with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver
  • Nepal Entry Visa (can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for a fee of USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Any expenses not included in the "Price Includes" section

Departure Dates

Frequently Asked Questions about Everest Three High Passes Trek

1)  What is the maximum point of the Everest Three High Passes Trek?

The highest point of the Everest Three High Pass Trek is Kalapathar, at 5,643 meters. In addition, both Everest Base Camp and the three passes are located above 5,000 meters.

2) Is the Everest Three High Passes trek challenging?

The Everest 3 Passes Trek is more challenging than the regular Everest Three High Passes Trek. The trails are rough and steep, which can be tricky, especially for first-time trekkers. Proper preparation is essential, as the weather in these high-altitude areas can be unpredictable.

3)  How to prepare for the Everest Three High Passes trek?

The Everest Three High Pass climb calls for a certain level of endurance and athleticism. To stay in shape for the hike, you should therefore engage in cardiovascular and other physical activities. Maintaining your optimistic attitude is also important because finishing this high-altitude hike requires mental toughness.

4)  When is the ideal time for Everest Three High Passes Trek?

The Everest Three High Passes trip is best done in the spring or fall when the weather is stable and the temperature is mild. While the autumn season begins in September and lasts until November, the spring season begins in March and lasts until May. This time of year offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and clean, blue skies. Trekking is possible without having to deal with erratic weather.