An Everest Three High Passes, Hidden Valleys, and Majestic Peaks
Everest Three Pass Trek is a classic journey with challenging and adventurous trek in the Everest region. If you are searching for an adventurous trek then this is the perfect trek for adventurous lovers who are looking for thrills and fun in the Himalayan. There will be the possibility of poor weather conditions because we will trek three high passes of the Everest region which is over 5300m plus. The trail is tough and will surely test your toleration where we will collect an unforgettable journey in the Khumbu region.
You also find good camping sites to camp in the natural surrounding and will enjoy every day of the trek.
Everest Three Pass Trek is the combination of the three beautiful passes of the Everest region which are Renjo La Pass, Chola pass, and Kongma pass. This is one for the really deadened trekker because this is the longest trekking in all over Nepal. During the time of trekking, we will pass through lush pine and rhododendron forests, Sherpa villages, and dense forests where you get to see the rich vegetation of the region.
From the highest point of the trekking pass, we have a very good view of a magnificent mountain like Mt Everest, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, and many more. With a scenic flight to Lukla which is the starting point of trekking deep into the Everest region. One of the most attractions is the national park for those who are interesting in flora and fauna.
Highlights of the Everest Three Pass Trek
- Three Iconic High Passes: Conquer the challenging Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) passes, each offering unique landscapes and panoramic Himalayan views.
- Stunning Mountain Views: Witness breathtaking close-up views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and many other snow-capped peaks.
- Everest Base Camp: Visit the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and the dramatic Khumbu Icefall — a bucket-list destination for trekkers worldwide.
- Kala Patthar Sunrise: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for a stunning sunrise view of Everest, one of the best vantage points in the region.
- Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri: Explore the pristine Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for sweeping views of the Everest and Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Remote and Less-Crowded Trails: Enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences, especially over the high passes, away from the main Everest trail crowds.
- Sherpa Culture & Villages: Immerse yourself in Sherpa hospitality, visit ancient monasteries in Tengboche and Thame, and learn about high-altitude Buddhist culture.
- Sagarmatha National Park: Trek through this UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in alpine flora, fauna, and dramatic landscapes.
Kongma La Pass
Kongma La Pass is a renowned trekking trail in the Everest region which is a height of 5545m. This trekking trail is located just above the Dingboche and southwest of Mt Everest. You get totally different experience in a lifetime trek through trekking to the Everest region. We will have an amazing view of High Mountain and Khumbu glacier and this is the less crowded trekking trail. The adventure trekking trail is a less visited trekking trail and takes us to the foot of the world’s highest peak to summit the highest of Everest region.
Kongma La Pass Trek is one of the difficulties trekking in Nepal which is why you need a good level of physical fitness for trekking this route. This trekking trail takes into a summiting high landscape which is all being above 5000m. The trekking is truly the ultimate lavish altitude trek with the world’s most pitch Nepalese mountain.
We will cross the world-famous Himalayan high passes and explore the beautiful valleys of the Everest region. With the natural beauty, we also have an opportunity to see the lush forest of rhododendron and pine and get to know about the local tribes.
Everest Chola Pass
Everest Chola Pass is one of the most challenging and adventurous trekking trails in the Everest region. This trek is also known as the expanded form of the EBC trek which is a completely developed trek route. It is located at the height of 5420m from sea level. It is a stunning trek for those who keep interested with stamina and a sense of adventure. Walking through the modest trail with the beautiful sceneries all around offers a unique experience. This is an unbeatable walk in terms of natural greatness.
Everest Chola Pass trek is an awesome journey that takes you to a different beauty of the Everest region. It is a tough day with the top pass and the part of the trail over ice, making it a real once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trek is a wonder of the snow-covered peaks, with the view of the Ngozumpa glacier which is the largest glacier in Nepal.
You can walk in your own peace, with plenty of stops for rest where we usually made for the town of Dzongla towards Thagnak as it is an easier climb. The trek is one of the well-known trekking trails in the Everest region.
Gokyo Renjola Pass
Gokyo Renjola Pass offers the exploration of the remote but naturally rich area of the Khumbu region. It is one of the most thrilling trekking routes which lead the way to Tibet border Nagpa La and Gokyo Valley. This trekking route also known as the high passes trek is the dream of every climber and adventure seeker to glance at its amazing view.
Trekking on this trail, we will see the excellent view of the largest glacier Ngozumpa glacier, a beautiful forest with various flora and fauna and wildlife. There is an endless list of the wonderful places that you are going to visit during this pass.
Everest Renjola Pass trek is one of the most beautiful and high passes in the Khumbu region. This trek is a difficult trek yet fulfilling trek which rewards the trekkers with Sherpa culture and the Himalayan landscape. Trekking is a little bit challenging on this route which is why you have to arrange some equipment that is essential for this trekking.
You also get a chance to enjoy its best view of the Himalayas of the Everest region. The one who is looking to cross the high passes route and explore the beauty of the Himalayas is the best option to go on this trek.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and check-in to Hotel
- Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2804m) and trek to Phakding (2610m) – 3 Hours
- Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3441m) – 5 Hours
- Day 04: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
- Day 05: Trek from Namche to Tyangboche Monastery (3860m) – 5 Hours
- Day 06: Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4360m) – 4 Hours
- Day 07: Trek to Chhukhung (4730m / 3 to 4hrs)
- Day 08: Rest day in Chhukhung
- Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4940m) and hike up Kongma La (5535m / 9 to 10hrs)
- Day 10: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4910m) – 5 Hours
- Day 11: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5365m) and back to Gorakshep – 8 Hours
- Day 12: Hike up to Kalapatthar (5545m) and trek down to Zhongla (4800m) – 7 Hours
- Day 13: Trek to Thannak (4830m) and cross Chola Pass (5367m / 8hrs)
- Day 14: Trek to Gokyo (4800m / 4 to 5hrs)
- Day 15: Trek to Marlung (4210m) and cross Renjo La pass (5345m / 8 to 9hrs)
- Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m / 7 to 8hrs)
- Day 17: Trek to Lukla (2800m / 6 to 7hrs)
- Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu Valley
- Day 19: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and check-in to Hotel
The representatives from Kingdom Treks & Expedition Pvt. ltd. will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival. He/she Assist to transfer you to the hotel for the overnight stay.
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2804m) and trek to Phakding (2610m) – 3 Hours
We get transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Domestic Airport this morning to catch our scheduled morning flight to Lukla. After 30 minute long adventurous flight above the breathtaking scenario of Himalayas, we land on the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. Lukla is going to be the starting point of our trek. We meet our porters and other crew members and start trekking towards Phadking, which takes around three hours. We stay overnight at a local guesthouse.
- Accommodation: Guest House
- Meals Include: Lunch & Dinner
Day 03: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3441m) – 5 Hours
We walk through the beautiful forest of pine today. And our walk leads us along the Dudhkoshi River bank through many suspension bridges. We will be crossing Hillary Suspension bridge which is one of the famous suspension bridges in that region. We will have enough opportunity to witness the wonderful views of Mount Thamserku (6618m) during the walk. Passing through the settlements of Benkar and Monjo, we eventually arrive at the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. We still have a last village of Jorsale before reaching Namche.
Following the trail ascending through the forests and bridges and overlooking the beautiful views of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse, we continue our journey towards Namche. Namche is the gateway to Mount Everest and is also the main trading center of the region. We check into the guesthouse and stay there overnight lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 04: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar
Today is going to be a rest day at Namche. But, as our Health Experts suggest, we need to stay active and moving during the rest days instead of being idle. Hence, we either take a day hike to Thame or visit Khunde for purpose of proper acclimatization. We can even stay at Namche and explore the Bazaar itself. You can visit the Tourist Visitor Center near the Headquarter of Sagarmatha National Park where you can observe an assortment of things which are related to the First Everest Climbers and Sherpa Culture. We stay overnight at a lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Namche to Tyangboche Monastery (3860m) – 5 Hours
We continue trekking along the rushing glacial waters of DudhKoshi, which eventually brings us to Tyangboche. You can visit the local monastery and can also get the opportunity to observe the prayer ceremony either in the morning or evening. We stay overnight at a lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 06: Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4360m) – 4 Hours
From Tyangboche, we drop to Debuche and then cross another exciting suspension bridge on ImjaKhola. We the climb to Pangboche among thousands of Mani stones. Trekking further for about a couple of hours, we reach Dingboche. We stay overnight at a lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 07: Trek to Chhukhung (4730m / 3 to 4hrs)
Follow the main trail toward the northeast, which runs parallel to the Imja Khola River from Dingboche. You will cross several suspension bridges over the river and cross the bridge and continue along the trail on the other side. The trail gradually climbs up a hillside and passes through several yak pastures and small settlements and then continues to climb up a steep hillside until you reach Chhukhung
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfsat
Day 08: Rest day in Chhukhung
Taking a rest day in Chhukhung is highly recommended for trekkers. A rest day in Chhukhung allows trekkers to acclimatize to the high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. During this day, you can take short walks around the village or hike up to Chhukhung Ri (5,550m) for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You can also explore the village and interact with the locals to learn about their culture and way of life.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4940m) and hike up Kongma La (5535m / 9 to 10hrs)
The journey begins in Chhukung, a small village located in the Imja Valley. From Chhukung, you will follow a trail that leads to the Kongma La pass. The trail is steep and challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding peaks make the climb well worth the effort. Once you reach the top of the pass, you will be rewarded with an incredible panorama of the Himalayas. From here, the trail descends to the Khumbu Glacier and continues to Lobuche. The trek takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4910m) – 5 Hours
As you start from Lobuche, the trail gradually ascends towards the Khumbu glacier. From there, the path leads toward the village of Gorak Shep. The final section of the trek involves a short, steep climb to the village, which can be a bit challenging due to the high altitude and thin air. Once you reach Ghorak Shep, you can hike up to Everest Base Camp. The hike takes around 2-3 hours from Ghorak Shep, and it is a challenging walk due to the high altitude and rough terrain. However, the stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding mountains make it all worth it.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5365m) and back to Gorakshep – 8 Hours
Today is going to be another big and difficult day trek along the Khumbu Glacier and up to the Everest Base Camp. You can get the closest view of Mount Everest from Khumbu Glacier and EBC. After spending little time at EBC, we track back to Gorakshep, where we stay overnight lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12: Hike up to Kalapatthar (5545m) and trek down to Zhongla (4800m) – 7 Hours
Today will be the longest day for Everest Chola Pass Trek. From Gorak Shep, we will hike up Kala Patthar which is about 2 to 3 hours. From the top of Kala Patthar, you can see the magnificent Himalayan range and close-up views of Mt Everest. After hiking up Kala Patthar, we will back to Gorak Shep and from Gorak Shep, we will trek toward Zhong La. From Gorak Shep, we will head south towards the Khumbu Glacier and cross the glacier on a series of rock steps and wooden bridges.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Trek to Thannak (4830m) and cross Chola Pass (5367m / 8hrs)
From Zhong la, the trek descends to the Gokyo Valley, passing through several glacial lakes, including the beautiful turquoise-colored Gokyo Lake. The trail then ascends to the Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the Himalayas. The trail continues along the glacier, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. The trek then reaches Thannak. And on this trekking period, we will get a chance to cross Cho La Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5367 meters from sea level before reaching Thannak.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Trek to Gokyo (4800m / 4 to 5hrs)
The trek from Thannak to Gokyo is around 4 to 5 hours of walking. The trail goes uphill through the rhododendron forests and passes by the Dudh Koshi River. You will also come across several small Sherpa villages along the way. The trail then follows the Gokyo Lake, and after a short climb, you will reach the beautiful Gokyo village.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Trek to Marlung (4210m) and cross Renjo La pass (5345m / 8 to 9hrs)
From Gokyo, we will trek toward Marlung. While trekking towards Marlung, we will cross Renjo La pass. Among three pass, we will cross Renjo La Pass at last. The trek offers stunning views of the mountains and allows trekkers to experience the unique culture of the Sherpa people who live in the region. The climb is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are spectacular. You can see the mountains of the Everest region, including Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. After crossing the pass, you will descend to the village of Marlung. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m / 7 to 8hrs)
The treks go uphill through the lush green forests of rhododendron and oak. You’ll pass through several suspension bridges, prayer wheels, and Mani walls before reaching Namche Bazaar. You will start your trek by crossing the Bhote Koshi River and making your way through the dense forests of rhododendron and juniper. The trail goes through several Mani walls, prayer flags, and chortens, giving you a glimpse of the local culture and traditions. You’ll also see stunning views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Ama Dablam on the way.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 17: Trek to Lukla (2800m / 6 to 7hrs)
From Namche, we return back to Lukla. With this, we mark end of our trekking. We stay overnight at lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu Valley
We get the scheduled morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla. The flight is going to be very scenic and adventurous. On arriving Kathmandu, you can take your time to go for your last minute shopping or you can choose to explore the city even more. We stay overnight at a hotel.
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 19: Final Departure
We are saying good bye to the Kathmandu as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We will transfer you to the airport for your returning flight.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport to Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private vehicle.
- Two-night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- An extra baggage storage facilities in Kathmandu during the trek at your hotel or office.
- Your entire stander Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek, A Cup of Tea/ Coffee During the Breakfast.
- Tea House hotel accommodation during the trek. Attached bathroom Namche and Lukla.
- A highly experienced, helpful and friendly government,license holder Guide, his food, accommodations, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine etc.
- Round Trip flight fare Kathmandu / Ramechap – Lukla-Ramechap /Kathmandu for member and Guide as per availability and a
- irlines policy. Sharing transport will be provided if flight diverted into the Ramechap Airport.
- Medical supplies, first aid kit box, including Oximeter and pulse meter checker.
- An arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (Pay first and claim later with your insurance if policy cover. ). If in case of worst case only.
- Sleeping bag, down Jacket, Duffel bag and walking Poles (if you don’t have your own, To be returned after trip completed).
- Sagarmatha National Park permits.
- TIMS (trekkers’ information management System.)
Cost Excludes
- International airfare, Nepal visa fee, any kind of insurance
- Local Expert Porter
- All meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
- expenses during the trekking such as hot shower, all kind of drinks, extra meals, Wi-Fi or data, device charging, upgraded accommodation etc..
- Tips for Staffs (it is expected)
FAQ
What is the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The Everest Three Passes Trek is the ultimate high-altitude circuit in the Everest region. It combines the Everest Base Camp trek with three challenging mountain passes:
- Kongma La (5,535m / 18,159ft)
- Cho La (5,420m / 17,782ft)
- Renjo La (5,360m / 17,585ft)
It includes Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
How long does the trek take?
The full circuit typically takes 18–21 days from Lukla to Lukla. It can be customized based on acclimatization, side trips, or rest days.
How difficult is the Everest Three Passes Trek?
This is a challenging trek due to its:
- High altitude (above 5,000m multiple times)
- Long trekking days
- Remote terrain and extreme weather
Good physical fitness, prior high-altitude trekking experience, and mental stamina are strongly recommended.
What are the main highlights of the trek?
- Crossing all three high passes
- Visiting Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
- Climbing Kala Patthar (5,545m) for iconic Everest views
- Exploring the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri
- Immersing in Sherpa culture in villages like Namche Bazaar, Thame, Dingboche
When is the best time to do the trek?
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, stable weather, best visibility
- Spring (Mar–May): Blooming rhododendrons, milder temperatures
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Possible, but harsh cold and snow-blocked passes
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Not recommended due to heavy rain and landslides
Do I need a guide or can I trek solo?
Solo trekking is allowed, but a guide is highly recommended due to:
- Navigation over remote and snowy passes
- Emergency preparedness
- Cultural insight and support
Hiring a porter can also significantly ease the physical burden.
What permits are required?
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
These are available in Kathmandu, Lukla, or Monjo.
How do I get to the trailhead?
Most trekkers take a flight from Kathmandu (or Ramechhap) to Lukla, the trek’s starting point. Weather delays are common—have buffer days in your schedule.
Where do I sleep and eat?
Accommodation is in teahouses (lodges) along the route, which offer basic rooms and meals. Expect more limited services at higher altitudes and remote areas.
How do I acclimatize properly?
The trek includes built-in acclimatization days in places like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Follow the rule: “Climb high, sleep low” and ascend gradually.
What about altitude sickness?
Yes, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a serious concern. Be aware of symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness. Rest, hydrate, and descend if symptoms worsen. Carry Diamox and consider travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation.
Is the trek crowded?
The Everest Three Passes route is less crowded than the main Everest Base Camp trail, especially between the passes. Gokyo and Thame areas offer solitude and breathtaking beauty.
What gear should I bring?
Essential gear includes:
- Warm, layered clothing (down jacket, base layers)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking boots
- Gloves, hat, and buff
- Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C or lower)
- Trekking poles
- Water purification system
- First aid kit & headlamp
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
How much does the trek cost?
Typical costs range from $1,200 – USD 2,000 depending on:
- Duration
- Guide/porter services
- Group vs. private trek
- Flights and equipment rental
Can I do the trek in reverse?
Yes, but the standard and more common route is:
Lukla → Kongma La → Everest Base Camp → Cho La → Gokyo → Renjo La → Thame → Namche → Lukla
Doing it clockwise ensures better acclimatization and safety.
What are the risks?
- Weather delays (especially Lukla flights)
- Altitude sickness
- Snow-blocked passes (mainly in winter/spring)
- Fatigue or injury
Proper preparation, flexible itinerary, and experienced guides reduce these risks.
Route Map