19Days

Everest Three High Passes Trek - 19 Days

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Trip Facts
Duration
19 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5535M
Group Size
12
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
September To November & March To May

“If you ask us to pick one trek in the Everest region, we will select the Everest Three High Passes trek as it covers the entire region. Imagine reaching heights and witnessing views that only a handful of humans get to live.”

The Everest Three High Passes trek is an adventurous high-altitude trek in the Everest region. The trek combines Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, untouched Thame village, and three high mountain passes above 5,000 meters. It is one of the longest treks in Nepal, and the journey is extraordinary.

You will be in the heart of the Himalayas, surrounded by a welcoming Sherpa community and giant snow-capped mountains. Regardless of all the destinations you will hike during the Everest Three High Passes trekking, crossing Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La passes are the main highlights of this venture.

We advise trekkers not to take this trek lightly. The three passes trek is, in fact, a very challenging trek that requires a high level of fitness and previous high altitude experience. The trek involves strenuous steep ascents and long days stretching up to nine hours.

Therefore, the 3 passes trek is ideal for physically and mentally strong trekkers who can push themselves endlessly to conquer this demanding trekking program. Trekkers looking for a daring once-in-a-lifetime kind of adventure will not be disappointed with the 3 high passes trek.

Everest Three High Passes trek- clockwise or anticlockwise, what's the difference?

The Everest 3 High Passes trek can be done clockwise or anticlockwise. Even though the destinations are the same in both directions, the route you will traverse determines the order in which you cross the passes.

Following a clockwise route, you will first cross Renjo La, then Cho La, and at last, Kongma La. In the anticlockwise route, you will first cross Kongma La, followed by Cho La and Renjo La.

On the Everest Three High Passes trek 19 days, you will trek in the anticlockwise direction, which is more popular and offers better acclimatization and easier logistics.

  • Clockwise pass order - Renjo La → Cho La → Kongma La
  • Anticlockwise pass order - Kongma La → Cho La → Renjo La

Key highlights of the Everest Three High Passes trek

The three high passes

Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La are three high mountain passes in the Khumbu region that connect different parts of the region. The ascent to these passes involves a steep climb to a high altitude. Therefore, trekkers need to be well-acclimatized before attempting the crossing due to the thin air.

  • Kongma La pass: Kongma La pass is situated at 5,540 meters (18,176 ft). This is the first pass you will cross during the 3 pass trekking. To go from Chhukung village to Lobuche village, you will cross the Kongma La pass.
  • Cho La pass: Cho La is the second pass you will cross. It is situated at 5,420 meters (17,782 ft) from sea level. This pass connects the Everest Base Camp area to Gokyo valley. The pass involves glacier crossing.
  • Renjo La pass: Renjo La (5,360 m/17,585 ft) is the final pass you will cross on the Everest three pass trek. This pass connects Gokyo Valley with Thame and brings you back on the track to Namche Bazaar.

Major attractions along the trail

Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar is a vibrant and bustling market town, located in the Khumbu region. It is a popular stopover for trekkers and climbers heading to Mount Everest and other peaks in the eastern Himalayas, Nepal. At 3,440 meters (11,286 feet), Namche Bazaar serves as the cultural and economic hub for the Everest region. 

Hotel Everest View and Chhukung Ri: acclimatization hikes

Hotel Everest View is located in the village of Syangboche, near Namche Bazaar. Located at 3,962 meters (13,000 feet), the Hotel Everest View is famous for providing comfortable and luxurious accommodations to trekkers. As the name suggests, Hotel Everest View offers breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest.

Chhukung Ri is located near the village of Chhukung. The ascent to the viewpoints allows trekkers to acclimate to the higher altitude before climbing Kongma La Pass. You will follow a steep, rocky route to reach Chhukung Ri. The views of Cho Oyu, Makalu, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, etc, are incredible from here.

Tengboche monastery, Pangboche monastery, and Thame monastery

Tengboche monastery, also known as Dawa Choling Gompa, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Tengboche village at 3,867 meters (12,687 feet). Tengboche monastery is the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region and holds great spiritual significance for the local Sherpa community.

Pangboche monastery is another significant monastery located in the Pangboche village at 3,985 meters (13,074 feet). Pangboche Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries, with a history dating back several centuries. This monastery is famous for claiming to possess relics believed to be the skull and hand-bones of the mythical Yeti.

Thame Monastery is situated in the village of Thame, west of Namche Bazaar, at 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). Thame Monastery is deeply rooted in Sherpa culture and is known for its traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture. Thame serves as a gateway to the Upper Khumbu region.

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri

Gokyo Lakes are a series of glacial holy lakes. They are renowned for their stunning beauty, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, including Cho Oyu and Everest. The Gokyo Lakes are among the world's highest freshwater lake systems, with the biggest lake, Dudh Pokhari, where the Gokyo village is located.

Likewise, Gokyo Ri is a viewpoint located near the village of Gokyo. From here, trekkers get to witness a stunning panorama of the Gokyo Lakes and Mount Everest. The sunrise and sunset views from Gokyo Ri are particularly spectacular. 

Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar

Everest Base Camp (EBC) is situated in the Khumbu region of Nepal, within the Sagarmatha National Park. It serves as the permanent base for climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest, the world's highest peak.

Situated at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level, EBC is one of the most famous destinations in the Himalayas, where travelers from all around the world visit either by trekking or heli flight.

Kala Patthar is a viewpoint located near EBC. It is situated at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet) and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. Because trekkers do not get to see the view of Mount Everest summit from its base camp, they hike to Kala Patthar to enjoy a direct close view of the summit of Everest.

How is the 3 passes trek compared to the Everest Base Camp trek?

Because most trekkers around the world know the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, we have compared the 3-pass trek to the EBC trek to provide a better understanding of this trek's difficulty, duration, what to expect, cost, etc.

Trek features Everest Three Passes trek Everest Base Camp trek
Trek duration 19 to 20 days 12 to 16 days
Difficulty Very challenging Moderate to difficult
Previous trek experience Must Not required
How many times over 5,000 meters? More than More than six times Three times
Crowd Balance of crowded mainstream EBC trail and peaceful trails Mainstream EBC trail
Scenery Varied scenery with lakes and jaw dropping panoramas from top of the passes Diverse landscapes
Package cost range USD 1,850 to USD 2,250 USD 1,250 to USD 1,650
Luxury lodge package range Above USD 3,000 Above USD 2,500

Highlights

  • The ultimate adventurous high-altitude trek in the Everest region
  • Experience thrilling Lukla flights and trek through rhododendron forests 
  • Hike to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and untouched Thame village
  • Spend nights in simple lodges in the beautiful Sherpa villages 
  • Explore ancient monasteries like Tengboche and Thame
  • Cross three high mountain passes above 5,000 meters
  • Be in the heart of the Himalayas, surrounded by a welcoming Sherpa community
  • Witness jaw-dropping mountain vistas and breathtaking landscapes
  • Exciting side excursions to Hotel Everest View, Chhukung Ri, and Gokyo Ri
  • Explore the stunning six Gokyo Lakes situated in the remote setting of Gokyo Valley
  • Traverse glaciers, moraines, and rugged terrains
  • Push yourself endlessly and break free from your bodily limits
  • Enjoy the perfect balance of tranquil moments and memorable interactions with locals and fellow trekkers

Who should do the Everest Three High Passes trek 19 days?

The Everest Three High Passes trek is ideal for travelers who fit into the below categories. Note that fitness and past high-altitude experience are non-negotiable.

✅ Strong physical and mental fitness – Strenuous climbing, high altitude, and significant endurance demands.
✅ Experienced trekkers – Previous high-altitude trekking experience is a must.
✅ Adventure Seekers – For trekkers who want to travel beyond EBC and seeking in-depth exploration.
✅ Photography Enthusiasts – Unmatched Himalayan mountain panoramas, diverse landscapes, and stunning sunrises and sunsets.
❌ Not for Beginners

What will you get in our Everest Three High Passes trek package? What are the other expenses that trekkers should know about?

In our Everest Three High Passes trek package, you will get accommodation and breakfast in Kathmandu, trek permits, accommodation, three meals a day during trekking, a guide, and a porter. The company's service charge is also covered in the package cost.

The expenses not covered in the package cost are international flights to/from Kathmandu, travel insurance, trekking clothes and gear, tips, shopping, bar bills, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, personal expenses, and Nepal travel visa.

*Note: All the services will be provided as per the itinerary. Any additional service will cost extra money.

How do you prepare for the Three High Passes trek?

Usually, if you do not come from a mountain village or town, you are not used to high altitudes and do not possess the required physical fitness to trek in the Himalayas. So, you have to prepare for yourself before joining any trek.

Preparation includes refining your physical strength and mental capabilities. Given the high difficulty and demands of Everest Three High Passes trekking, it is important that you are in good shape. Otherwise, the trek will become very unpleasant.

Follow the following tips to prepare for the Everest Three Passes trek:

  • Strength training: You will carry a 5 kg daypack throughout the trek and walk on rugged terrain, so focus on strengthening your core, leg, and back muscles.
  • Cardio and endurance training: 6 to 7 hours of uphill and downhill walking daily at high altitudes requires great stamina and endurance. Cardiovascular exercises like long walks, hiking, stair climbing, swimming, cycling, running, etc., will help you improve your strength and stamina.
  • Acclimatization: If you can do a few day hikes or trek before starting 3 passes trek, it will help you a lot. In short, you have to be exposed to high altitude to join this trek. On our part, we have made the perfect Everest Three High Passes trek itinerary to provide easy acclimatization opportunities.
  • Mental preparation: While training, you will naturally push your mental limits and become confident. In addition, you should also research the weather, temperatures, accommodation, meals, terrain, etc, on the three passes trek. It will make you mentally ready for the trip.

Why choose the Base Camp Trip for the 3 high passes trek?

  • Get unmatched Everest Three High Passes trek cost and service with us.
  • Flexible itinerary that you can customize to suit your requirements.
  • Professional guide with a minimum of five years of expertise and local Sherpa porter.
  • Complimentary airport pick-ups and drop-offs as per the itinerary.
  • Free-of-cost duffel bag to use during the trek.
  • Low-cost rental gear such as sleeping bags, trekking poles, down jackets, etc.
  • Reliable management team, full logistic support, and sustainable travel.
  • Transparent pricing and no hidden costs.
  • Excellent booking and cancellation policy.
  • Trek certificate.

Everest Three High Passes Trek - 19 Days Itinerary

Accommodation: Hotel

The representatives of Base Camp Trip will welcome you at Kathmandu Airport. They will drive you to the hotel and help you settle in. If you have any questions, feel free to ask them. Unpack and freshen up. If you are hungry, grab some food.

Later in the day, we will meet you for a trek briefing. After that, you will buy trekking essentials and pack your duffle bag. Enjoy the bustling streets of Thamel, have dinner, and return to the hotel. We will end this day early because we have to leave for Ramechhap Airport around midnight.

Max Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerDuration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trekDistance: 6.2 km/3.8 milesAccommodation: Lodge

The Everest Three High Passes trek starts with the Lukla flight. If you are trekking in the spring or autumn, you will take the Lukla flight from the Ramechhap Airport. It takes 4 to 5 hours to drive from Kathmandu to reach this airport.

In Nepal, spring and autumn are peak travel seasons, so the air traffic is quite high at the Kathmandu Airport. The Lukla flights are operated from Ramechhap Airport in these two seasons to avoid potential delays.

The Lukla flight is short but very scenic and quite thrilling. Upon landing at the Lukla Airport, we will fetch our luggage and say hello to the porters who will carry our duffel bags.

Walking through the lively alleys of Lukla village, we will descend and trek through rhododendron forests to reach Phakding. The trail goes along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it several times via hanging suspension bridges.

*Note: Very affordable helicopter flights are available from Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 3,440 m/11,290 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 7.4 km/4.6 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Leaving Phakding, you will hike to Namche Bazaar, the biggest Sherpa village in the Everest region. The trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar goes through rhododendron and magnolia forests. On the way, you will pass by many small villages, like Monjo and Jorsale.

Likewise, cross several suspension bridges on the way, including the long Tenzing Hillary Suspension Bridge. We will register the three pass trek permits at the police check post in Monjo. The final couple of hikes to Namche Bazaar are steep.

Max Altitude: 3,790 m/12,434 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerDuration: 4-5 hoursAccommodation: Lodge

Acclimatization days are set between the itinerary to allow you to adjust to high altitudes and changing environments and avoid altitude sickness. In Namche Bazaar, you will hike to the Hotel Everest View, an iconic luxury lodge hotel built in the '60s.

During the hike, you will enjoy stunning views of Mt. Thamserku. From Hotel Everest View, you will see breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt Ama Dablam.

Likewise, you also have the option to go on an alternative hike to Khumjung Monastery and Sir Edmund Hillary School. After the hike, we will return to Namche Bazaar for the night. Namche Bazaar is huge and has many restaurants, shops, and museums to explore.

Max Altitude: 3,860 m/12,660 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 9.2 km/5.7 milesAccommodation: Lodge

On this day, we will continue the journey from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche village. Walk on a flat trail for a bit and descend to Phortse Thanga. The lush hills and occasional snow-capped mountains will keep you entertained.

From Phortse Thangka, the trail ascends to Tengboche village. You can see beautiful views of Taboche Peak and Khumbi La while hiking. In Tengboche, you will visit the biggest monastery in the Everest region. Likewise, the views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam is phenomenal from here.

Max Altitude: 4,410 m/14,470 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 12 km/7.45 milesAccommodation: Lodge

The trail descends from Tengboche village through lush forests and takes you to Deboche village. From here, you will descend to the Imja Khola Valley floor and walk uphill to Pangboche monastery.

Visit the monastery and continue ascending through villages like Orsho and Shomare to Dingboche. On the way, you will see wonderful scenery and trek past framing fields.

Max Altitude: 5,550 m/18,208 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 5.3 km/3.1 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Dingboche onwards, you will leave the famous EBC trail and follow a less crowded route to Chhukung Valley. The terrain is much more rugged and steep than the last few days.

It is a short hike from Dingboche to Chhukung village, so we will go on an adventurous excursion to Chhukung Ri later in the day. The hiking route is steep and rocky, and we may get very tired, but the mountain views from Chhukung Ri are incredible and worth the walk.

We will see spectacular views of Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Everest, Island Peak, Mt. Ama Dablam, etc. After the hike, we will come back to Chhukung village to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,540 m/18,176 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 11 km/6.8 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Today is a big day. We will cross the first pass. Crossing the first pass is definitely tough because we don't know what to expect. However, it will make us confident for the other two passes.

From Chhukung village, you will ascend to the top of Kongma La pass at around 3:00 AM. Walking this early is important to cross the pass before afternoon begins, bringing strong winds.

Upon reaching the pass, we will be rewarded with spectacular mountain views. After enjoying the views, we will descend and trek north of the Khumbu Glacier to reach Lobuche village.

Max Altitude: 5,364 m/17,598 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 8 hoursDistance: 15 km/9.32 milesAccommodation: Lodge

We are back on the busy EBC trail. From Lobuche, we will hike to Everest Base Camp. The first part of the hike leads us to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before EBC. The trail is steep and rocky, and the high altitude makes walking more challenging.

We will leave our duffel bags at Gorak Shep and continue hiking to Everest Base Camp via rocky, steep trails. Upon reaching EBC, take a picture of the iconic big rock and enjoy a close view of the Khumbu Icefall and Khumbu Glacier.

After that, return to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,545 m/18,192 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 14 km/8.6 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Today, we will explore another famous destination in the Everest region, Kala Patthar. This hike is a must to see the closest view of Mt. Everest and a gorgeous sunrise. We will complete this hike in 3 to 4 hours and then hike to Dzongla.

To reach Dzongla, you will first retrace the trail to Lobuche village. From here, you will follow an offbeat, peaceful route to Dzongla. On the way, we will see a superb view of Chola Tsho Lake and cross a bridge over Chola Khola.

Max Altitude: 5,420 m/17,782 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 9.3 km/5.8 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Today is another remarkable day. You will cross the Cho La Pass and continue the trek toward the untouched Gokyo Valley. We will ascend at dawn to reach the top of the pass on time to avoid strong winds.

The hike will be challenging, but the mountain view from the top of the pass will make us forget all the pain. From the pass, the trail descends to Thagnak, where we will spend this night.

Max Altitude: 4,750 m/15,584 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 3.7 km/2.3 milesAccommodation: Lodge

From Thagnak to Gokyo village, we will pass by a beautiful alpine lake and cross the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine. The terrain is rocky and steep. On the way, we can see fantastic views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Cholatse Peak.

The trail passes by first Gokyo Lake, and soon we will come across the second Gokyo Lake. From here, we will hike a bit to the third Gokyo Lake, where Gokyo Village is located. There are six main Gokyo Lakes, and we will explore most of them.

Max Altitude: 5,357 m/17,575 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 5 hoursAccommodation: Lodge

It is our acclimatization day in Gokyo village. We have a very adventurous and fun day ahead of us. Early in the morning, we will hike to Gokyo Ri. It will be an incredible offbeat hike. The sunrise and mountain views from Gokyo Ri are heavenly.

After this hike, we will walk to the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes. If the time allows, we will also visit the sixth Gokyo Lake near Mt. Cho Oyu Base Camp. Later, we will return to Gokyo village to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,360 m/17,585 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 18.8 km/11.7 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Today, we will cross the third and last pass, Renjo La. Our day starts early with an uphill walk to the top of the pass. Again, high altitude and steep trails will make the trek demanding, but we will push ourselves to conquer this last challenge of the journey.

The top of the pass will reward us with an unbelievable mountain panorama. From here, we will descend to Lungden to spend the night. On the way, we will see frozen alpine lakes.

Max Altitude: 3,800 m/12,467 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 10.5 km/6.5 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Thame is our next destination. It is an untouched Sherpa village, rich in cultural heritage, and houses an ancient monastery. The trail from Lungden steadily descends and follows a narrow valley.

We will soon reach Marulung village and trek on barren land. The final stretch of the day will lead us through Tranga and then to Thame.

Max Altitude: 3,440 m/11,285 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 8.5 km/5 milesAccommodation: Lodge

Leaving Thame, we will begin trekking back to Namche Bazaar. The trail crosses a small suspension bridge and goes along the bank of the Bhote Koshi River. We will walk through forested hills and pass by small traditional Sherpa villages before reaching Namche Bazaar. The scenery is excellent along the way.

Max Altitude: 2,846 m/9,337 ft Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 13.6 km/8.4 milesAccommodation: Lodge

It is our last day of trekking. We will leave Namche Bazaar early and retrace the trail back to Lukla. The trail goes through villages and dense forests, crossing many hanging bridges. From Phakding, the trail ascends to Lukla. In the evening, we will celebrate our successful 3 passes trek.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ft Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinnerDuration: 35 minutes flightAccommodation: Hotel

We will fly back to Kathmandu early in the morning. If we land at Ramechhap Airport, it will take another 4 hours to drive to reach Kathmandu. The guide will make sure you arrive at your hotel comfortably.

You can spend the remaining day as you desire. Since it is your last night in Kathmandu, we highly recommend souvenir shopping and visiting some tourist sites. We will congratulate you on the trek completion certificate in the late evening.

Meals: Breakfast only

After the long adventure, it is time to say goodbye to each other. The trip has ended. Our team will help you with international airport departure.

Reach Out Our Experts

Ashok Adhikari
Ashok Adhikari
+977 9843035522
Sri Hartaulina
Sri Hartaulina
+62 812 21582156

Trip Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pick-ups and drop-offs by private four-wheeler.
  • Overnight stay in the 3-star hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • Lukla flights. 
  • Twin-sharing, basic lodge accommodation during trekking.
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, seasonal fruits, and a cup of tea or coffee during the trek each day.
  • Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit.
  • Base Camp Trip's complimentary duffel bag, trekking pole, map, first-aid kit, pulse oximeter, and satellite phone.
  • Licensed Nepali guide and porter (one porter for two trekkers).
  • Accommodation, food, allowance, and high altitude insurance for the guide and porter.
  • Trip achievement certificate.
  • All government taxes and service charges.

Excludes

  • International flight to/from Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance (must cover helicopter evacuation and medical bills).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Trekking clothes and gear.
  • Shopping and souvenirs.
  • Tips for driver, guide, and porter.
  • Bar bills, water bottles, and other beverages.
  • Nepal travel visa fee.
  • Any expenses not mentioned in our cost include section.

Essential Information

The best time to do the Everest Three High Passes trek in Nepal

The best times to do the Everest Three High Passes trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Because of the season transition, you may see occasional rainfall. However, the weather is most stable in these months, making them peak trekking time.

Three passes trek during off seasons: winter and summer/monsoon

Winter season ( January to Mid-February) - 

In winter, the three passes are usually covered with snow, so you have to use microspikes or crampons to cross them. The region is extremely cold, but if you properly layer your clothes, the climate is not unbearable. The trails are empty, and you will find yourself surrounded by a winter wonderland.

Summer season (June to August) - 

Summer and monsoon season have unpredictable weather, with poor trail conditions and visibility. Heavy rainfall can make the trail slippery and muddy, and the sky can be cloudy, hindering views.

Likewise, the climate gets cold in the evening and morning. On days without rainfall, heat overpowers the daytime. Still, evenings and mornings are chilly. With proper support, you can do 3 high passes trek between June to August.

Everest Three High Passes trek difficulty and altitude sickness

  • Moderate difficulty (easier than Everest, harder than Ghorepani)
  • Daily walking hours: 5-7 hours
  • Suitable for beginners? Yes, with basic fitness

The three pass trek difficulty is demanding because to cross three mountain passes and walk at a high altitude, you need great strength. During the trek, you will walk 6 to 7 hours a day. Not only that, the day stretches up to 9 to 10 hours when crossing the passes.

The 3 passes trek is a high-altitude trek. You will spend several days above 2,500 meters and ascend above 5,000 meters seven times. This gain in elevation means the risk of altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness happens when one is not used to high elevation. The oxygen level in the air decreases as one gains elevation, so acclimatizing is necessary to avoid altitude sickness.

  • Symptoms: Intense headache, nausea, chest tightness, dizziness, vomiting, insomnia, difficulty breathing, uneasiness, etc.
  • Preventive measures: Ascend slowly, keep yourself hydrated, get ample rest daily, eat enough food to keep yourself energized, do not rush, and maintain your pace.

Everest Three High Passes trek permits and regulations 2025

The permits required for the 3 passes trek are the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit. The permits cost Rs 2000 and Rs 3000 per person, respectively.

Accommodation during the trek

In Kathmandu, you will spend two nights in a three-star hotel. During trekking, you will spend nights in simple lodges and basic tea houses in the remotest parts of the region.

Sharing rooms with one or two fellow trekkers is common. Private washrooms are not available, but you will get Western-style toilets in most of the villages. Services like charging and hot showers cost extra money.

A sleeping bag is a must for the Everest Three High Passes trek because of the cold climate at high altitudes. Trekkers should also pack a power bank, spare batteries, wet wipes, etc.

What will you eat?

During the trek, you will get three meals a day. All the meals are based on the lodge's menu. The food variety is excellent in the Everest region. Even in the remotest corners, you will have options like dal bhat, thukpa, stew, fried rice, chapati, pasta, momo, noodles, etc.

In villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche, dishes like pizza, spaghetti, sandwiches, bakery items, and different kinds of nonveg dishes are also available. Likewise, boiled drinking water, different kinds of teas, and coffee are found everywhere.

Travel insurance for the 3 High Passes trek

Travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation and medical bill coverage is compulsory for the 3 high passes trek. You cannot do this trek without this insurance. So, buy the travel insurance in your country and bring the document. We need travel insurance documents from each trekker before the trek starts.

Everest Three High Passes trek packing list

  • Sleeping bag
  • Daypack
  • Duffel bag
  • Trekking poles
  • Underwear
  • Base layer
  • Thermal layer
  • Trekking shirt & pants
  • Fleece jacket and down jacket
  • Windbreaker/waterproof jacket & pants
  • Dry towel
  • Cotton socks, woolen socks, scarf, gloves
  • Sunhat and beanie
  • Trekking boots and casual shoes/crocs
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottles
  • Water purification tablet
  • Antiseptic cream, band-aid, crack bandage, pain reliever spray, general medicine, electoral powder, insect repellent, etc
  • Map, pocket torch, traveler knife, hand sanitizer, GPS
  • SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, wet wipes, toilet paper, soap/shampoo bar, comb, toothpaste/brush, deodorant, etc
  • Adapter, charger, power bank, spare batteries for your camera
  • Snacks, journal/pen, travel insurance document, passport, visa, passport-sized photos, cash

Everest Three High Passes Trek - 19 Days FAQs

No, there is no restricted zone on the 3 high passes trek route.

We provide helicopter flights from all parts of the Everest Three High Passes trail. Let us know if you want to combine a helicopter return towards the end of the trek. Extra charges apply.

After Namche Bazaar, the WiFi and mobile signal will get patchy. At higher altitudes, there will be no signal at all.

Yes, a sleeping bag is necessary for the Everest Three High Passes trek to keep you warm at night when the temperature significantly drops at higher altitudes.

If the passes are covered with snow or ice, we may need crampons to cross it.

Yes, the trek to the 3 high passes is possible in winter, but you have to be well prepared and supported by a strong guide and reliable team like us. For winter treks, we check the pass conditions and set the departure dates accordingly.

Legally, foreigners are allowed to trek the Everest Three High Passes without a guide, but it is a very risky move. Please keep in mind that this trek traverses untouched and remotest parts of the Everest region, where you will not find any humans to get help if needed.

Likewise, many parts of the trail navigate glacier moraines and steep, unstable tracks, which require support from a knowledgeable guide.

By now, you might have understood that the 3 High Passes trek involves ascending over 5,000 meters several times. This means that the risk of altitude sickness is quite high if you do not acclimatize.

The good thing is that our Everest Three High Passes trek itinerary has three rest days. Throughout the trek, you will hike high and sleep low even more, which will allow you to get used to high elevation and avoid altitude sickness.

There is no emergency shelter or tea houses on the passes. Our guide will be equipped with a first aid kit in case you hurt yourself while crossing the pass.

The highest point of the Three High Passes trek is Chhukung Ri, which is located 5,550 meters (18,208 ft) above sea level.

Yes, the Everest Three High Passes trek is one of the hardest treks in Nepal. It is the ultimate trekking adventure in the Everest region, including crossing three high mountain passes and ascending above 5,000 meters more than six times throughout the journey.

The trek is challenging physically and mentally, so it is only recommended to experienced trekkers.

No, you do not need extra permits for the Three High Passes trek. Whatever trek you do in the Everest region, you only need the Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance permit.

Yes, you can combine the Everest Three High Passes trek with Island Peak climbing. Please contact us to customize the itinerary.

Yes, the Gokyo Lakes are included in our Everest Three High Passes route. You will spend two nights in Gokyo village, during which you can explore the Gokyo Lakes, hike to Gokyo Ri, and even visit the 6th Gokyo Lake.

Yes, you can skip one of the high passes if you find it too difficult to push yourself. Let your guide know, and he will find you the best alternative route. Note that there will be no refund if you decide not to cross a pass or end the journey early.

In the spring and autumn seasons, the passes usually have no ice or snow apart from a few sections. Whether the passes are covered with snow depends on the weather conditions.

The toughest section of the Everest Three High Passes trek is definitely crossing the passes. On the days you cross the passes, you will walk 9 to 10 hours while dealing with very high altitudes, rugged trails, and thin air.

Crossing Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes is nothing less than climbing 5,000-meter peaks. Though these passes don't involve technical climbing, the high altitude and steep terrain make hiking very demanding. With a knowledgeable guide and strong support, you can cross these passes without worry.

The Three High Passes trek is not for beginner trekkers, and we do not recommend this trek to first-time trekkers. Consider the challenges of the famous Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit treks and imagine crossing two additional passes.

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Ashok Adhikari
Ashok Adhikari
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Sri Hartaulina
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