Everest Three High Passes Trek

Highlights

  • Embark on one of the most iconic treks in the Himalayas of Nepal 
  • Cross the three high passes and explores the Imja Khola valley and Gokyo valley
  • Explore the most stunning and less-visited corners of the Khumbu region and presents with mesmerizing mountain landscapes
  • Dare yourself to go beyond your limits and unravel your true potential on this 17 days voyage in Nepal
  • Get closest to Mount Everest at Everest Base Camp and catch a gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar
  • Explores the homes of Sherpas, the heroes of the mountains, and visit ancient monasteries on the way
  • Tree through rhododendron forests at the beginning of the trail and later walk on moraines and glaciers
  • Explore the stunning Gokyo lakes and hike to several incredible viewpoints
  • Get to see some of the jaw dropping panoramas the Earth has to offer

Everest three high passes trek is one of the most iconic treks in the Himalayas of Nepal. This trek crosses the three high passes and explores the Imja Khola valley and Gokyo valley. Take you to the most stunning and less-visited corners of the Khumbu region and present you with mesmerizing mountain landscapes. The 3 three passes trek is the ultimate trek to dare yourself to go beyond your limits and unravel your true potential. 

Everest three high passes trekking is not for beginners or faint hearts. It is a very demanding trek that will ask you to be brave and get uncomfortable, but in return, offer you a strong mind, outstanding panorama, and a huge sense of achievement. During the Everest three high passes trek 17 days, you will hike to Everest base camp (5,364 m), the closest you can get to Mount Everest (8,849 m), and catch a gorgeous sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,644 m).  

The trek explores the homes of Sherpas, the heroes of the mountains. You will spend nights in picturesque mountain villages and explore the gorgeous river valleys. Rhododendron forests cover the beginning of the trail and later open up to moraines and glaciers. You will cross the Renjo La (5,388 m), Cho La (5,380 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m) passes, the three high mountain passes in the Khumbu region that connect valleys. 

Everest region may be a ground for adventure and feeling an adrenaline rush for you, but it is home & holy land to locals. A land where you get to connect to your higher self, where mountains are seen as protectors and alpine lakes are considered sacred. Along the trail, we will visit ancient monasteries to get a blessing from the monks. There are stupas, chortens, and prayer wheels scattered around the route. 

Difficulty

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a challenging and strenuous trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. The trek involves crossing three high passes, which are all at elevations above 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). The route also includes several other steep ascents and descents and can be very physically demanding.

In addition to the physical challenges, the trek also involves some exposure to the elements, including cold temperatures, high winds, and potentially adverse weather conditions. It is crucial to be well-prepared for these conditions and to have the necessary clothing and equipment.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common risk for trekkers on the Everest Three High Passes Trek due to the high elevations of the route. AMS is caused by the body's inability to acclimatize to the lower levels of oxygen that are present at high altitudes.

Symptoms of AMS can include headache, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and nausea. To reduce the risk of AMS, you will ascend to high altitudes gradually, giving the body time to acclimatize. We take rest days at regular intervals during the trek to allow your body to adjust to the higher elevations. It is also vital to stay well-hydrated and to avoid overexertion. 

Book Everest Three High Passes Trek 17 Days 2023 Departure

Here is a brief overview of how to book the Everest Three High Passes Trek 17 Days for a 2023 departure with our trekking company:

First, visit our website and use our online booking form to reserve your spot. You will need to provide your personal and contact information, as well as details about your travel dates and any special requests you may have.

After you have completed the booking form, you will need to make a deposit to secure your place on the trek.

Once we have received your booking and deposit, we will send you a confirmation email with details of your trip and information on what to do next.

To prepare for your trek, get in good physical condition and buy the trekking gear.

Before you depart, you should also be aware of any travel and visa requirements and make sure that you have all the necessary documents.

We hope this information is helpful, and we look forward to welcoming you on the Everest Three High Passes Trek 17 Days for a 2023 departure. If you have any other questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Check out our 3 three passes trek maps for detailed information about the altitude and route. Likewise, we have genuine Everest three high passes trek cost that will let you enjoy the journey without being a burden in your pocket.

Itinerary
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On your arrival, we'll welcome you at the airport and take care of your luggage. Our team will drop you at the hotel and inform you about the program later in the day. We haven't planned much on your arrival day apart from welcome dinner. You will spend the evening mingling with the locals and other travelers in the bustling streets of Thamel.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Welcome Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

We have one full day in Kathmandu, enough to prepare for the Everest base camp trekking and explore some monuments in the city. So, the morning begins with a delicious breakfast and later a guided excursion to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour guide will tell all about the monuments and their importance. 

Explore the local market called Ason at the end of the tour and come back to Thamel. After lunch, in the late afternoon, we meet in the Nepal Pioneer Treks office. We meet with the guide and discuss the trek. Then we'll proceed with packing and making sure all the documents are ready for the journey.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

The Lukla flight is short and scenic. Depending upon the air traffic, you will be flying the Lukla either from Kathmandu airport or Manthali airport. If the flight is from Manthali airport, you have to wake up at 2:30 AM and drive to Manthali (4 to 5 hours of drive) to catch the flight. Upon landing at the Lukla airport, our adventurous journey in the Khumbu region begins.

Follow the group leader and walk on a downhill trail alongside the Dudh Koshi river. The trail goes through alpine woods and passes by a village called Ghat. On the way, we'll also cross many suspension bridges. The view of Kongde Ri and Kangtega is wonderful from Phakding village.

*Note: You can also take a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2840m

As we depart from Phakding, we will follow a trail that runs through the Sagarmatha National Park, passing through a forested area teeming with diverse plant and animal life. Along the way, we will encounter charming Sherpa villages like Monjo and Jorsale before arriving at Namche.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3440m

After having breakfast at the guesthouse, we will hike up to the Everest View Hotel. From this vantage point, you will have the opportunity to see several iconic mountains in the Everest region, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Cho-Oyu, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Tawache, and more. After spending some time exploring the area, we will return to Namche for the night.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3962m

After several hours of walking downhill from Namche Bazaar, we reached Phunki Tenga. The trail then gradually ascends to Tengboche village. The village has the biggest Buddhist Monastery in the area, the Tengboche Monastery. The majestic Ama Dablam mountain can be seen from the monastery.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3860m

Today's trek will take us to Dingboche, a small Sherpa village located in the Everest region. The trek is about 9.1 kilometers and follows a fairly easy downhill path through beautiful rhododendron forests. Along the way, we will cross the Imja River and pass through Pangboche, a traditional village with a magnificent view of the Himalayas and the Pangboche Monastery. As we continue through the Imja valley, we will eventually arrive in Dingboche, where we will spend the night.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4410m

We’ll spend this day hiking to Nagarjuna Hill in the morning. During the remaining day, you can relax and spend time with the locals.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5100m

Today trail involves a lot of ups and downs as we make our way through traditional farms and pass by fences made of local stones. We'll also walk through the Imja Khola valley and Bibre, a place known for its yak herdsmen. After about half an hour of walking, we'll reach Chhukung, where we'll spend the night.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4730m

There are two trails to reach the top of the pass, one is to the northwest of Chhukung over the Nuptse Glacier moraines, and the other one is back to Bibre and trekking on the trail above the Niyang Khola. As there are no hotels, shops, or tea houses along the way, we'll need to bring our own packed food and water. At the top of the Kongma La pass, you'll see beautiful Buddhist prayer flags. We'll then turn north towards the Khumbu Glacier and reach Lobuche.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5535m

Today's trail will be of average difficulty up until Gorak Shep. Before we head off to Everest Base Camp, we'll take a lunch break and rest at Gorak Shep, which will take around 2 hours. If the weather is good, we'll have the opportunity to see the beautiful Himalayas all around us. 

After that, we'll make our way to Everest Base Camp, which is the closest you can get to Mt. Everest without mountaineering equipment and also the highest altitude that most people will reach without a climbing permit. The view of the Khumbu Icefall from the Base Camp is breathtaking. We'll return to Gorak Shep for the night.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5364m

We will ascend to Mt. Kala Patthar early in the morning. From the top of Mt. Kala Patthar, you'll have the opportunity to see the breathtaking views of Everest. After spending some time at Kala Patthar, we'll head downwards towards Lobuche. From Lobuche, we'll start to walk downwards, and after a few hours, the trail will divide into two. 

 

We'll take the right path toward Dzongla. Along the way, you'll see a stupa and tombstones in the distance. After that, we'll trek upwards and see the Chola Tsho Lake nearby. We'll continue our trek by crossing the Chola Khola on a bridge before reaching Dzongla.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5550m

Today, we'll need to start our trek before 4-5 am to cross Cho La pass before mid-day. The route today may be a little difficult due to the high altitude and steep, loose rock. Despite these challenges, you'll be able to enjoy the magnificent views from the top of Cho La Pass. 

After crossing the pass, we'll descend to our destination, Gokyo (4,790 m). Along the way, we'll cross Khara, Pangka, and Ngozumpa glaciers (which is the longest glacier in Nepal). There are a series of six lakes in the area, with the third one being the Gokyo Lake. Near Gokyo Lake, there is a small village where we'll stay for 2 nights as we have sightseeing and hiking trips planned around Gokyo.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5420m

After a hearty breakfast, we'll set off on a rough trail toward the Gokyo valley. The trail can be quite challenging and unstable, so be careful as you walk. It's not a long distance from Dragnak to Gokyo Lake, but walking along the glacier takes time. You'll need to be very careful while walking to avoid any accidents. In around three to four hours, you'll reach the Gokyo valley, where you'll be able to take in the stunning beauty of the mountain lakes (Gokyo lakes) set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 4790m

You will hike to Gokyo Ri today. From here, you'll be able to see some stunning views of mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho-Oyu, and many other peaks. The small mountain lakes of Gokyo are also breathtaking, shining like emeralds in the snow. After taking in some spectacular views from the Ri, we'll descend to Gokyo village for the night.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5360m

We'll set out early from Dole for the final mountain pass of our Everest High Passes Trek. With stunning views of the mountains in sight, we'll walk past the final lake in the valley to climb up to the pass. Once we arrive, we'll cross the Renjo La Pass and then descend to Marlung. The hike up to the pass can be quite challenging, as the path is rocky and slippery. The hike down the trail is easier compared to other days.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 5360m

After breakfast, we'll start our trek for the day. The trail will mostly descend to Thame, and along the way, we'll be able to see some amazing snow peaks. About 150 meters above Thame, there is a Thame Monastery, a picturesque monastery set among the many homes of monks and lay people. 

Thame is a traditional Sherpa village that has managed to avoid the crowds of trekkers heading to Everest. The walk itself is peaceful, with excellent views of the mountains as it winds in and out of the forest on the side of the canyon.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 3440m

After taking in some breathtaking views of the mountains in Nepal's Everest region from Namche, we begin our journey back to Lukla. We'll follow the same well-paved path through Jorsale, Monjo, and Phakding to get there. The lush forests and amazing mountainous terrain along the way will keep us engaged throughout the trek.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 2840m

In the morning, you'll take an early flight to Kathmandu. Upon your arrival, you'll be dropped off at your hotel in Kathmandu. You have two options for the day: you can explore the streets and malls for shopping, or visit some places in the city that you want to explore but are not included on the trek. In the late evening, you'll have a farewell dinner with the team.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude: 1300m

Pack your stuff and get ready to leave the hotel. Our airport team will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the international airport for your flight back to your home.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Route Map
Everest Three High Passes Trek Map
Includes/Excludes
Includes
  • Two nights accommodation in Kathmandu with twin sharing at tourist standard hotel (Bed and Breakfast)
  • All Ground and air transportation. Pick up and drop.
  • Full board meal 3 times a day (B+L+D) during the trek days including tea & coffee (served in a cup).
  • English speaking trekking guide who has been authorized by the Nepal government and necessary number of porters (According to the group size) with their insurance, salary, accommodation, and meals.
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu with Cultural show. (Ethnic music and dance)
  • All the necessary official documents, TIMS Permit, Trekking Permit, etc.
  • Sleeping bags and down jackets if necessary.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Trekking Route map.
  • Insurance of Guide and Porters.
  • All required local and government tax.
Excludes
  • Nepal Visa fee and International flight.
  • Meal except for Breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • All personal expenses such as bar bills, water, extra tea/coffee, snacks, battery re-charge, laundry service, hot shower etc.
  • Personal clothing and gears.
  • Tips to guide and porters.
  • Cost raised by flight cancellation, emergency rescue charges, landslide, weather, political unrest, illness, re-routing etc which are not under our control.
  • Monument entrance fees.
Price and Availability
Date AvailabilityPrice 
Start DateDec 09, 2024End DateDec 28, 2024StatusAvailablePriceUS$1650
Start DateDec 20, 2024End DateJan 08, 2025StatusAvailablePriceUS$1650
Start DateDec 31, 2024End DateJan 19, 2025StatusAvailablePriceUS$1650

Departure date of Everest Three High Passes Trek

We ( Nepal Pioneer Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd ) prefer to provide fixed departure trek, tour and expeditions in all himalayan region of Nepal. If you are single and prefering with a group, you can join our fixed departure schedule. If the schedule dates are not comfortable because of your time, please contact and let us know. We always happy to customize our trips to suit your needs. If any individuals or group doesn’t want to join with our other group, we can organizeand provide personalized service as per your need, wish and requirement. We arrange the trip according to our clients need, wish and interest.

Please check our available date.

Additional Information

Everest three high passe trek best time

The best time to go on the Everest three high pass trek depends on a few factors, including personal preference, weather conditions, and the level of difficulty you are comfortable with.

In general, the months of late September to November (autumn) and March to early May (spring) are considered the best times to undertake this trek. During these periods, the weather is typically clear and dry, with minimal rain and snowfall, making it easier to navigate the trails and enjoy the stunning views.

However, it is essential to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and it is always a good idea to be prepared for the possibility of inclement weather. It is also worth considering that the high pass trek involves crossing over three high mountain passes, which can be challenging even in good weather. 

As such, it is necessary to be in good physical condition and have experience with high-altitude trekking before attempting this trek.

Everest three high passe trek accommodation

Accommodation during the Everest three high pass trek can vary depending on the specific route and itinerary you choose. Guesthouses and lodges are the most common forms of accommodation on the trek, and they are typically located in villages and towns along the route. 

These accommodations offer basic rooms with shared or private bathrooms and often include a dining area where you can have meals. Some lodges also offer additional amenities such as hot showers and electricity, but these may come at an extra cost.

Meals

In general, you can expect to have a range of food options along the way, including local and western dishes.

At lower altitudes, you will find a variety of restaurants and guesthouses that offer a range of meals, including Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momo, chowmin, roti, curries, dhedo, and western options dishes such as pasta, pizza, and sandwiches. In these areas, you will also have the option to purchase snacks and drinks from local shops and vendors.

As you gain altitude, the availability of food options may become more limited, and you may find that the menus are more basic. In these cases, you can expect to have meals like dal bhat, Tibetan bread, thukpa, etc, along with some fresh vegetables and occasionally meat.

Group/private joining

When planning the Everest three passes trek, one of the key considerations is whether to join a group or go on a private trek. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific preferences and needs.

Joining a group trek is a popular option for those who want to meet other travelers and enjoy a more social experience. However, it is important to note that you may have less flexibility with your itinerary and may need to follow a set schedule.

Private treks, on the other hand, offer more flexibility and customization. With a private trek, you can choose your itinerary and pace, and you have the option to bring your own group or go solo. 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an important consideration when planning any trip in the Himalayas, including the Everest three-high passes trek. This type of insurance can help protect you and your belongings in the event of unexpected circumstances such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost or stolen property.

Several travel insurance providers offer coverage specifically for high-altitude trekking and adventure activities. When choosing a policy, it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions to ensure that it covers the activities you will be undertaking on the trek, as well as any additional risks or hazards you may encounter.

FAQs
  • The oxygen level at Everest base camp is around 80% to 85%, where we need 90% to 95% oxygen level to breathe freely. No, it is not hard to breathe at Everest base camp, but a slightly low oxygen level, elevation & cold may tire you quickly.

  • The 3 passes trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Khumbu region. This trek crosses three high mountain passes, as the name of the package suggests, and goes above 5,000 meters multiple times. The terrain is very demanding and requires strong physical fitness to endeavor this trek.

  • The three passes trek is one of the longest treks. Depending upon the itinerary you are following, the trek can go anywhere from 16 days to 21 days. Our three high passes trek is 17 days long with ample rest days in it.

  • You are not obliged to hire a guide or do an organized trek, as per the rules. However, it is not a good idea to do a trek like this solo, even if you are an experienced trekker. You will be touching many no-human zones during the trek and walk past arduous sections. For your safety, we advise you to do Everest three high passes with a guide.

  • Everest three high passes trek is the hardest trek in the Everest region. This trek combines three 5,000-meter above mountain passes, avalanche-prone areas, glacial walks, steep uphill climbs, and takes you across hidden corners with very limited tourist services.

  • The 3-pass trek is a 17 days long program that covers Everest base camp, Gokyo valley, and Lumde. The three mountain passes (Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La) connect these three passes, and hence the package is called 3 passes trek.

  • There are multiple ways you can travel to Lukla from Kathmandu. The first and most famous way is by taking a 35 minutes short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Then you have the option to drive to Jiri or Phaplu and trek to Lukla before continuing the journey further. And the last alternative is a 45 minutes helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

  • Passes are the route that goes through mountain ranges. Because of the high elevation of the passes, they usually make very beautiful viewpoints. You can differentiate a pass by looking if there is a source of a river below and whether it is the highest point between two valleys or not.

  • No, you cannot see Mount Everest from Lukla. The first view of Everest is seen from Hotel Everest View above Namche Bazaar during your acclimatization hike.

  • No, a beginner cannot do Everest three high passes trek. This trek is not for first-time trekkers, even if you are physically very strong. The journey demands more than physical fitness, and only individuals with previous experience in the Himalayas can understand and bear the limitations of this trek.

Client Reviews
  • V
    Virat PatelIndiaJun 25, 2019

    Everest Base Camp

    We had a wonderful and one of most memorable experiences doing the trek. Undoubtedly the landscape was fantastic, but equally fantastic were our guide and porter - Eklal and Santosh. Some people try to attempt the trek on their own, but having a guide like Eklal makes world of difference. Not only he made all the arrangements as best could be made in these parts of the world, but he is a terrific companion to have on the trek. He is extremely friendly and easy going but being so he never misses his professionalism and his responsibility. During the trek, he adjusted to our likings and pace. It is safe to say that I wouldn’t have personally made it to the end without his support.
    Our relationship with Eklal didn’t end with the trek, we had plans to visit other parts of Nepal and he was very prompt and a great help to make all the travel arrangements. He called before every departure, during every stay with everything was all right and made himself readily available if needed. The service and professionalism was nothing short of 5 stars. Highly recommend anyone wanting to trek in Nepal to give Eklal and Nepal Pioneer Treks a shot.

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  • J
    Joanne TAustraliaNov 14, 2017

    Everest base camp trek excellent experience

    Nov 2017 • Friends

    My first above 5000m mountain hiking in Nepal on Oct 2017, very good memories gained. My guide Eaklal ,a very patience person and very knowledgeable guide who accompany me along the journey . From the first day late night arrival at kathmandu, he was there early to welcome us and arrange our accommodation well and in the 13 days from lukla to ebc, he gave a lot of good advices to make sure our body in good condition so that we can enjoy the journey and complete our mission to ebc. All the arrangements of accommodation and meals were excellent ,he organised things perfectly and gave me a lot of information about the place since it was my first time been there . Along the journey ,he make me knew about this mountain more and also other mountains as well ,very joyful moments trek with him. Nepal pioneer trek and expedition definitely will be the company for my next trekking in Nepal.
    Eaklal, a kind person who made my trek this time full of good memories . Grateful that we choose the right company and trek with Eaklal make the trip an excellent memory experience .

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