How difficult is the Three High Passes Trek?

It is one of the hardest treks in Nepal. It crosses three passes above 5,300m, spends many days at high altitude, and involves long, strenuous days including a glacier crossing on Cho La. Previous high-altitude trekking experience and strong fitness are strongly recommended.

Which passes does the trek cross?

The three passes are Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This itinerary crosses them in that order, combined with Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and the Gokyo Lakes.

How long is the trek?

This itinerary is 18 days including arrival, departure, and acclimatization days. The trekking portion is around 15 days. Shorter variations exist but allow less acclimatization.

What is the best time for this trek?

The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for stable weather and clear passes. The high passes can be blocked by snow in winter and are less reliable during the monsoon.

Do I need special insurance?

Yes. It is essential to have insurance that covers high-altitude trekking above 5,000m and helicopter emergency evacuation.

Yes. A licensed guide is required in the Everest region and is strongly recommended here given the remote passes, glacier crossing, and route-finding involved.

How is altitude sickness managed?

The itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche and Dingboche and a gradual ascent profile. Ascend steadily, stay hydrated, and inform your guide of any symptoms; oximeter checks are done during the trek.

Everest Three Passes Trek: 18-Day Itinerary & Cost

Best Season
March to May & September to November
Departure City
Kathmandu
Guide
Guided
Maximum Altitude
5545m / 18192ft (Kala Patthar)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Walking Hours
6-8 Hours
Duration
18 Days
Accomodation
3 Star Hotel, Lodge, Tea House
Transportation
Private Vehicle, Airlines
Activities
High Altitude Treks

Everest Three Passes Trek Overview

The Everest Three Passes Trek is an 18-day circuit through the Khumbu that links Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La with Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar and the Gokyo Lakes. It combines established villages and teahouses with remote, high-altitude crossings.

This is a strenuous trek for fit, experienced hikers. The route reaches about 5,545 metres at Kala Patthar, includes long days on uneven terrain and a glacier section near Cho La, and depends on weather, trail conditions, guide judgement and current local rules. Acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche are built into this itinerary.

If you want the classic route without the high passes, compare the Everest Base Camp Trek. For a quieter lake-focused alternative, see the Gokyo Lakes Trek. Confirm current permits, flights and insurance requirements before booking.

Everest Three Passes Trek Highlights

Cross Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La on one Khumbu circuit
Visit Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar and the Gokyo Lakes
Build in acclimatization time at Namche and Dingboche
Cross rugged high-altitude terrain, including the Cho La glacier section
Travel with a current permit, guide and weather-contingency plan
Finish through the quieter Thame and Renjo La side of the Everest region

Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Evening trek briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2:

Fly to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

Scenic mountain flight to Lukla, then an easy walk down the Dudh Koshi valley to Phakding. Overnight in Phakding.

Day 3:

Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Cross suspension bridges and climb through forest into Sagarmatha National Park to Namche Bazaar, the main Sherpa town. Overnight in Namche.

Day 4:

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization hike toward the Everest View Hotel for first views of Everest and Ama Dablam. Overnight in Namche.

Day 5:

Namche to Tengboche (3,860m)

Trek to Tengboche, home to the region’s most famous monastery, with views of Ama Dablam. Overnight in Tengboche.

Day 6:

Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

Descend to the Imja River and climb to the highland village of Dingboche. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 7:

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang for views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 8:

Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m)

Trek up the Imja valley to Chhukung, the base for crossing the first pass. Overnight in Chhukung.

Day 9:

Cross Kongma La (5,535m) to Lobuche (4,940m)

The first and highest pass. A long, demanding day over Kongma La with outstanding views, descending to Lobuche near the Khumbu Glacier. Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 10:

Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

Trek along the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep, then continue to Everest Base Camp before returning to Gorak Shep. Overnight in Gorak Shep.

Day 11:

Kala Patthar (5,545m) and trek to Dzongla (4,830m)

Early climb to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest, then descend and trek to Dzongla, the base for the second pass. Overnight in Dzongla.

Day 12:

Cross Cho La (5,420m) to Thagnak (4,700m)

Cross the second pass, Cho La, including a glacier section, descending to Thagnak. Overnight in Thagnak.

Day 13:

Thagnak to Gokyo (4,790m)

Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest, to reach the Gokyo Lakes. Overnight in Gokyo.

Day 14:

Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Gokyo Lakes

Climb Gokyo Ri for a panorama of four eight-thousanders — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu — and explore the upper lakes. Overnight in Gokyo.

Day 15:

Cross Renjo La (5,360m) to Lungden (4,380m)

Cross the third pass, Renjo La, with superb Everest views, descending the quieter western valley to Lungden. Overnight in Lungden.

Day 16:

Lungden to Namche Bazaar

Long descent through Thame and traditional Sherpa villages back to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche.

Day 17:

Namche to Lukla

Final trekking day back down to Lukla. Celebrate the completed circuit with your team. Overnight in Lukla.

Day 18:

Fly back to Kathmandu

Morning flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure and a farewell dinner in the evening. Onward departure can be arranged the same or next day.

Everest Three High Passes Trek

Three Passes Trek Snapshot

Everest Three Passes Trek Overview

Everest Three Passes Trek Highlights

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Three Passes Trek Snapshot

Everest Three Passes Trek Overview

Everest Three Passes Trek Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

What the package includes

What the package excludes

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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