Three High Pass Trek

Overview Itinerary Inclusion Exclusion

Trip Overview

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking adventures in the Himalayas, combining Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Kala Patthar, and the crossing of three major high-altitude mountain passes in a single extraordinary journey.

The trek begins with a scenic mountain flight to Lukla before following the famous Everest trail through traditional Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, alpine forests, and glacial valleys. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp route, this trek explores remote sections of the Khumbu region while crossing the iconic Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes.

Along the journey, trekkers experience breathtaking views of the world’s highest mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and countless surrounding Himalayan peaks. The route also includes visits to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri, making it one of the most scenic and diverse trekking routes in Nepal.

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a physically demanding Himalayan adventure filled with dramatic landscapes, high mountain passes, glacier crossings, and authentic Sherpa cultural experiences.

Best Seasons to Travel

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons for the Everest Three High Pass Trek, offering stable weather, clear mountain views, and safer high-pass crossing conditions.

Notes to Travelers

This trek is physically demanding and recommended for experienced trekkers with strong fitness levels and prior high-altitude trekking experience. Accommodation throughout the trek is mainly in teahouses and mountain lodges with basic but comfortable facilities.

Crossing the three high passes requires good endurance, proper acclimatization, and preparedness for rapidly changing mountain weather. Flights to Lukla are weather-dependent and may occasionally experience delays.

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is one of Nepal’s ultimate Himalayan trekking adventures, offering unmatched mountain scenery, remote wilderness, cultural immersion, and high-altitude challenge.

Highlights

● Cross the legendary three high passes of the Everest region
● Trek through Kongma La Pass (5,535m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360m)
● Explore Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar viewpoint
● Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks
● Visit Gokyo Lakes and hike to Gokyo Ri
● Experience authentic Sherpa culture and Buddhist monasteries
● Trek through glaciers, alpine valleys, and remote Himalayan trails
● One of Nepal’s most adventurous and complete Everest trekking experiences

 

Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu Transfer to the Hotel.

    Arrive in Kathmandu Transfer to the Hotel.

  • Day 2 : Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding.

    Fly to Lukla (2,800m-15 M) and Trek to Phakding (2,652m-3 Hrs) & lodge.

  • Day 3 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

    Cross multiple suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge, and enter Sagarmatha National Park. A steady climb leads to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital.

  • Day 4 : Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

    A rest and acclimatization day with a hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

  • Day 5 : Trek to Tengboche (3,860m)

    Follow a scenic trail with spectacular mountain views before descending and re-climbing to Tengboche. Visit the famous monastery set against the backdrop of Ama Dablam.

  • Day 6 : Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)

    Descend through forests and cross the Imja Khola before ascending into a more open valley. The landscape becomes increasingly alpine as you reach Dingboche.

  • Day 7 : Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

    A crucial rest day with optional hikes to Nagarjun Hill or Chhukung Valley to aid acclimatization and enjoy close-up mountain views.

  • Day 8 : Trek to Chhukung (4,730m)

    A short trek into the Imja Valley leads to Chhukung, a small settlement surrounded by towering peaks, preparing for the first high pass.

  • Day 9 : Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m) & Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)

    One of the most challenging days of the trek. The steep ascent to Kongma La is rewarded with incredible panoramic views before descending to Lobuche.

     

  • Day 10 : Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & Return to Gorakshep (5,164m)

    Follow the glacial moraine to Everest Base Camp, standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak. Return to Gorakshep for overnight stay.

     

  • Day 11 : Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)

    Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views over Everest. Afterward, descend and continue toward Dzongla, preparing for the next pass.

  • Day 12 : Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) & Trek to Thagnak (4,700m)

    Cross the glacier-covered Cho La Pass, requiring careful footing. Descend into the Gokyo Valley and reach Thagnak.

  • Day 13 : Trek to Gokyo (4,790m)

    Follow a scenic trail past glacial lakes to reach the beautiful Gokyo Lakes area.

  • Day 14 : Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Explore

    Climb Gokyo Ri for one of the best panoramic views in the Everest region, including Everest, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding glaciers.

  • Day 15 : Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m) & Trek to Lungden (4,380m)

    A challenging ascent to Renjo La offers breathtaking views of the Gokyo Lakes and Everest before descending to Lungden.

  • Day 16 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

    Descend gradually through remote valleys and rejoin the main trail back to Namche.

  • Day 17 : Trek to Lukla (2,860m)

    Final trekking day retracing steps along the Dudh Koshi River to Lukla.

  • Day 18 : Fly back to Kathmandu & Departure

    Morning flight to Kathmandu followed by transfer to your hotel or airport for departure.

Cost Inclusion

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • All necessary permits
  • First aid kit carried by guide
  • Staff insurance, salaries, and logistics
  • Government taxes and service charges

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner)
  • Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, laundry)
  • Hot showers and battery charging during the trek
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Extra costs due to delays or unforeseen circumstances