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Embark on a 20-day Everest Three High Passes Trek that combines adventure with cultural immersion. This trek challenges you with three high passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—offering breathtaking views of Everest and surrounding peaks. Experience the vibrant Sherpa culture by visiting traditional villages and ancient monasteries while trekking through diverse landscapes, including the stunning Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp. Designed for moderately experienced trekkers, this itinerary includes acclimatization days for a safe and enjoyable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas with expert guidance from Ghale Treks. Join us for an unforgettable journey!
Kathmandu, Nepal
Private Tour
Embarking on the 20-day Everest Three High Passes Trek with Ghale Treks promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. Prepare for a comprehensive exploration of this iconic region as you conquer three challenging high passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—each offering breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Expect stunning natural landscapes, from vibrant rhododendron forests to awe-inspiring glacial terrains. Immerse yourself in rich Sherpa culture by visiting traditional villages and ancient monasteries, while our experienced guides share invaluable insights along the way. Designed with acclimatization in mind, this trek ensures a safe and enjoyable ascent, allowing you to fully appreciate key destinations like the serene Gokyo Lakes and the legendary Everest Base Camp.
Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking both physical challenges and cultural immersion, the Everest Three High Passes Trek with Ghale Treks promises to create lasting memories in one of the world’s most majestic mountain ranges. Join us for an experience of a lifetime!
Nepal is a small yet remarkably beautiful country, and we are pleased to offer convenient airport transfer services. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will greet you and transport you to your hotel by car, van, or bus, depending on the size of your group. We kindly ask that you provide your flight arrival details in advance to ensure a smooth pickup.
Please note that local SIM cards and currency exchange services are available at Tribhuvan International Airport for your convenience.
On the second day of the Everest Three Pass Trek, you will embark on a picturesque flight from Tribhuvan Domestic Airport in Kathmandu to Lukla Airport, the gateway to the Everest region. This flight typically occurs in the morning when weather conditions are most favorable, so please be ready early, based on the flight time provided the day before.
After enjoying breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and transported to the airport. Once all formalities are completed, your flight will take off, providing breathtaking views of the Langtang, Shisha Pangma, and Mahalangur Himalayan ranges over the course of approximately 45 minutes before landing at Lukla Airport.
Upon arrival at Lukla, located at an elevation of 2,840 meters, you will have lunch before beginning your trek towards Phakding. Your journey from Lukla will involve crossing a suspension bridge and passing through the charming stone-walled village of Chheplung. Shortly thereafter, you will cross another suspension bridge over the Chheplung Khola to reach Thodi Koshigoan, where you can enjoy stunning views of Kusum Kanguru.
Continuing on, you will traverse the villages of Ghat and Chhuthawa before arriving in Phakding, which sits at an elevation of 2,610 meters. The trek from Lukla to Phakding takes approximately three hours, after which you will enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation at a cozy tea house in Phakding.
After a restful night in Phakding, you will begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the tea house, inhaling the fresh air of the Everest region. Following the Boundless Adventure itinerary, this day’s trek leads you to Namche Bazaar.
With stunning views of Kongde Ri, you will head north from Phakding alongside the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing a suspension bridge along the way. As you traverse rhododendron forests and pass picturesque waterfalls, you will cross two additional suspension bridges before arriving at Monjo.
A brief walk from Monjo will take you to Jorsale, the entrance gate to Sagarmatha National Park. Here, you will need to present your permits to proceed, so please ensure you have them readily available. After checking in at the Sagarmatha National Park gate, you will reach Larja Dobhan. Crossing the Larja Bridge, you will have the privilege of seeing the majestic Mount Everest for the first time, motivating you to continue your adventure.
The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, which is situated at an altitude of 3,440 meters, takes approximately five hours. You will enjoy lunch in Jorsale, and both dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at a tea house in Namche Bazaar.
The risk of altitude-related issues increases above 3,000 meters, so it’s essential to exercise caution, especially since you are at 3,440 meters in Namche Bazaar. Day three is designated for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude while also providing an opportunity to explore the surrounding areas and interact with locals.
During this acclimatization day, you will trek to the small village of Khumjung, known for its Buddhist communities, via Syangboche Airport and the Everest View Hotel. You will also have the chance to visit the Khumjung Hillary School, established by Sir Edmund Hillary.
As you explore, you’ll be treated to stunning views of snow-capped mountains, including Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Nuptse, and many other unnamed peaks. After a rewarding day of exploration, you will return to Namche Bazaar to rest and recharge for your upcoming journey. You can also connect with local residents and partake in their daily activities. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at a tea house in Namche Bazaar.
After enjoying a pleasant acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, you will begin your trek to Tengboche, famed for housing the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. Following a hearty breakfast, you will traverse the beautiful settlements of the Sherpa people, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse Shar, Taboche, Kangtega, and Thamserku, as you make your way to Phungi Thanga, your lunch stop.
After a warm meal at Phungi Thanga, you’ll continue on a switchback trail that winds through enchanting pine and rhododendron forests, where you might encounter local wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, and pheasants. The trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche takes approximately five to six hours, bringing you to an elevation of 3,860 meters. In the evening, dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at a tea house in Tengboche.
Start your day early with breakfast at the tea house in Tengboche before setting off on your adventure. After a hearty meal, you’ll explore the area’s monasteries, including the famous Tengboche Monastery, where you may have the opportunity to participate in worship activities. Following this enriching experience, you’ll continue your trek toward Dingboche, passing through stunning alpine landscapes, rhododendron forests, and enchanting Sherpa villages.
A short walk will lead you to Deboche, where you might spot local wildlife like musk deer, monal, and blue sheep. After crossing a suspension bridge from Deboche, you’ll reach Shomara, a great spot to take a break and enjoy lunch. Post-lunch, you’ll continue onward, crossing a stream over the Imja Khola to arrive at Dingboche, located at an elevation of 4,410 meters. Upon your arrival, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of glaciers, including Churu, Duwo, and Ama Dablam Glaciers, along with towering peaks like Mount Amphu Lapcha and Pumo Ri. You will then enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Dingboche.
Acclimatization is essential for safe trekking at high altitudes, so the sixth day is designated as an acclimatization day in Dingboche. After enjoying breakfast at your tea house, you’ll embark on a trek to Nangkar Tshang, ascending to 5,616 meters. It’s important to carry a packed lunch and stay well-hydrated to help minimize the risk of altitude-related issues. Nangkar Tshang is renowned as one of the best viewpoints on the Everest Three Pass trek, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of majestic peaks and glaciers, including Mount Makalu, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, and the lakes surrounding Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, and Island Peak, as well as Imja Tsho Lake and the stunning close-up of Ama Dablam. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, you’ll return to your tea house in Dingboche for dinner and an overnight stay.
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin day seven of your adventure, trekking from Dingboche to Chhukung. This segment of the Everest Three Pass journey is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, featuring a gentle ascent through stunning alpine landscapes, yak pastures, and rocky terrain, all while offering spectacular views of Island Peak. The trek covers a distance of 7 kilometers and takes about 3-4 hours, gaining approximately 400 meters in elevation to reach Chhukung, which sits at 4,730 meters above sea level. Arriving early at your tea house allows time for a relaxed lunch before you’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas and interact with locals. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night at the tea house in Chhukung.
On the ninth day, you’ll embark on a significant milestone of your trek—the crossing of Kongma La Pass, the first pass of the Everest Three Passes journey. Armed with a headlamp and a packed lunch, you’ll set off early in the morning, facing a steep ascent from Chhukung. Expect to navigate rocky and potentially snowy terrain, so it’s crucial to be physically and mentally prepared to mitigate the risks of altitude sickness. After about five hours of trekking, you’ll reach Kongma La Pass at an impressive elevation of 5,535 meters, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of iconic peaks like Mount Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Neptune, Pumo Ri, and even a closer glimpse of Mount Everest. After enjoying your packed lunch amidst this breathtaking backdrop, you’ll take some time to explore and absorb the scenery before beginning your descent to Lobuche, which takes about three hours. Here, you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by towering mountains at an elevation of 4,910 meters.
On the 10th day, you’ll accomplish a remarkable goal by reaching the famous Everest Base Camp. After enjoying breakfast in Lobuche, you’ll trek towards Gorakshep, located at an elevation of 5,140 meters, which takes approximately 3-4 hours along a rocky path with stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks. Upon arriving at Gorakshep, you’ll have lunch and rest for an hour before embarking on your exploration of Everest Base Camp. The journey to the camp offers a close-up view of the breathtaking Khumbu Icefall. While at Everest Base Camp, you’ll be surrounded by views of iconic mountains including Ama Dablam, Imja Tse (Island Peak), Everest, and Pumori, though the view of Mount Everest itself is somewhat obstructed by other peaks. After capturing pictures and soaking in the incredible scenery, you’ll return to Gorakshep for dinner and an overnight stay.
Early in the morning, you’ll embark on a trek to Kalapathar, which stands at 5,550 meters above sea level and is famed for its stunning panoramic views, particularly of Mount Everest, which isn’t visible from Base Camp. Renowned for its breathtaking sunrise vistas, Kalapathar offers 360-degree perspectives of iconic peaks like Nuptse, Pumo Ri, and Changtse. After taking in the awe-inspiring scenery for about two hours, you’ll return to Gorakshep for lunch. Following your meal, you’ll set out for Dzongla, situated at an elevation of 4,830 meters, navigating challenging terrain while being surrounded by spectacular Himalayan landscapes. Along the way, you’ll cross Lobuche Pass, known for its magnificent views of Ama Dablam and the Cho La Pass. The trek from Gorakshep to Dzongla takes approximately five hours, and you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Dzongla after a fulfilling day.
In the early morning, armed with a headlamp and a packed lunch, you’ll set off towards Cho La Pass, the second high pass on your Everest Three Passes trek. Following your crossing of Kongma La Pass, be prepared for a more demanding journey on the icy trails of Cho La Pass. This trek promises an exhilarating mix of adventure and breathtaking mountain vistas, with a five-hour ascent to the pass’s height of 5,368 meters, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Gokyo, Cho Oyu, Cholatse, Gyazumba, and other majestic snow-capped peaks. The descent towards Thangnang presents its own challenges, including loose rocks, slippery paths, and tricky icy crossings over the next three hours down to Thangnang at 4,700 meters. After a rewarding day, you’ll enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at Sam Tea House in Thangnang.
After crossing the second pass on your Everest Three Passes trek, you’ll embark on a morning journey to Gokyo, located at an elevation of 4,790 meters. The relatively short distance of 4 kilometers from Thangnang to Gokyo usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, but be prepared as there are no lodges or tea houses along the way; you’ll need to carry packed food and water to sustain your energy and hydration. Upon arrival in Gokyo, you’ll be greeted by the serene beauty of the Gokyo Valley, followed by lunch at a local tea house where you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Ama Dablam. You can also explore the nearby lakes, including Dudh Pokhari and Gokyo Lakes I, II, and III, before settling in for the night at a tea house situated right in front of Gokyo Lake, where dinner will be served.
On the fourteenth day of your Everest Three Passes trek, you’ll dedicate time to explore Gokyo Ri, the premier viewpoint in the area, situated at an elevation of 5,357 meters near Gokyo Lake. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll commence your early morning climb to Gokyo Ri to catch the sunrise, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Makalu, Cho-Oyu, and the iconic Mount Everest illuminated by the morning sun. The round-trip hike to Gokyo Ri takes about 4 hours, making it a manageable trek for the day. Upon your return to Gokyo, you will enjoy lunch at your tea house, with the option to spend the afternoon visiting the further Gokyo Lakes IV and V before savoring dinner and resting for the night in Gokyo.
After taking in the awe-inspiring views from iconic spots such as Cho La Pass, Kongma-La Pass, Everest Base Camp, Kalapathar, and Gokyo Ri, your Everest Three Pass trek culminates at Renjo La Pass, where you’ll experience yet another stunning panorama. Following breakfast in Gokyo, you’ll set off for this final leg, equipped with a packed lunch for the four-hour trek that offers challenging yet rewarding trails through Nepal’s breathtaking Everest region. Upon reaching Renjo La Pass at an elevation of 5,360 meters, you’ll be treated to spectacular sights of Mount Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and beyond, with some of the best vistas of both the Everest and Rolwaling ranges. After conquering all three passes, you’ll begin your descent to Lumde, which can be steep in sections, so care is needed with footing. The exhilarating three-hour journey down to Lumde showcases diverse landscapes and cultural experiences, culminating in a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay in Lumde.
The descent from Lumde begins as you head towards Thame, located at an elevation of 3,800 meters, starting with a nourishing breakfast in Lumde. The trail, which spans approximately 10 kilometers and takes about five hours to traverse, meanders through stunning rhododendron forests, juniper trees, and lush alpine meadows while paralleling the banks of the Bhote Koshi Nadi. Along the way, you’ll pass enchanting Sherpa settlements such as Marlung, Taranga, Hungmo, and Thameteng, each offering a glimpse into local life. Upon reaching Thame, known for its significant cultural site, the ancient Thame Gompa, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area’s rich Buddhist heritage. After enjoying lunch at Taranga, you’ll conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Thame.
Early in the morning, you’ll enjoy breakfast at a tea house in Thame before embarking on your trek to Monjo, which stands at an elevation of 2,835 meters. The journey covers approximately 18 kilometers and features a descent through charming Sherpa villages and dense forests. Along the trail, you’ll pass through towns such as Thamo, Phurte, Gangla, Namche Bazaar, and Larja Dobhan, with a leisurely lunch break in Namche Bazaar for about an hour. As you trek, you’ll encounter various Buddhist mani walls adorned with prayer wheels, enriching the spiritual ambiance of the landscape. The path descends to the Bhote Koshi Nadi, crossing thrilling suspension bridges over the river, which adds excitement to your journey. After approximately five hours of trekking, including the lunch break, you’ll arrive in Monjo for dinner and an overnight stay.
After enjoying a morning breakfast in Monjo, you’ll check out from Sagarmatha National Park, completing the necessary formalities before starting your descent towards Lukla on your final trekking day in the Everest region. The trail, approximately 8 kilometers long, leads you through scenic rhododendron forests and the villages of Phakding, Ghat, and Chheplung, alongside the Dudh Koshi River. This trek not only provides breathtaking views of distant peaks like Kongde Ri and Kusum Kangguru but also allows for meaningful interactions with locals, showcasing the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. You’ll have the option to enjoy lunch in either Phakding or Chheplung, and the trek from Monjo to Lukla takes about five hours, culminating in dinner and an overnight stay in Lukla.
The Everest Three Pass journey wraps up with a scenic flight from Lukla Airport to Kathmandu after breakfast in Lukla, with flights typically departing early, so be prepared. Your accommodation is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the airport. The 45-minute flight will take you to Kathmandu Domestic Airport, where you’ll be transported to your hotel. Arriving early in Kathmandu gives you plenty of time to explore the vibrant area of Thamel, with opportunities for shopping and sightseeing. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Kathmandu, allowing you to reflect on the cherished memories of your trek.
After enjoying a warm breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu, you’ll check out, and our airport representative will transport you to Tribhuvan International Airport. If your flight is scheduled for late in the afternoon or at night, please let us know, as hotel check-out time is at noon. We wish you a pleasant journey ahead and kindly ask you to share your feedback on the trek and your overall experience.
Know Before You Go: Important Information for the Everest Three High Passes Trek
Permits and Documentation
Physical Preparation
Altitude Awareness
Weather and Clothing
Trekking Gear and Equipment
Hydration and Nutrition
Safety
Cultural Etiquette
Emergency Preparedness
Travel Insurance
By ensuring you’re well-prepared with this important information, you can enhance your trekking experience and make the most of your adventure on the Everest Three High Passes Trek! Enjoy your journey!
What to Bring on the Everest Three High Passes Trek
Packing wisely is crucial for a successful and enjoyable trek to the Everest Three High Passes. The following list includes essential items to consider bringing on your 20-day trek, organized by category:
Clothing
Footwear
Backpack & Storage
Trekking Gear
Hydration and Nutrition
Personal Items
Electronics
Miscellaneous
Additional Tips:
By packing the right gear and essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for the challenges and beauty of the Everest Three High Passes Trek! Enjoy your adventure!
The best times to undertake the Everest Three High Passes Trek are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is typically stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions.
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is considered a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers. It involves long days of walking, high altitude, and steep ascents. Good physical fitness and acclimatization are essential for successfully completing the trek, especially at high elevations (up to 5,400 meters/17,700 feet).
Yes, a good level of physical fitness is crucial for the Everest Three High Passes Trek. It is recommended to engage in regular cardiovascular and endurance training before your trip. Preparing yourself through hiking, running, or other aerobic exercises can significantly improve your trekking experience.
Essential items to pack for the trek include trek-specific clothing (layered apparel), a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, sturdy trekking boots, a backpack, trekking poles, and personal items (first aid kit, toiletries). Additionally, make sure to include warm layers, waterproof gear, and sun protection.
Altitude sickness is a potential risk on the Everest Three High Passes Trek due to the high elevations. To minimize the risk, gradually ascend, stay hydrated, and allow for proper acclimatization by taking rest days at higher altitudes. Recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, nausea, dizziness) early, and seek assistance if you experience them.