Everest Three Passes Trek - 17 Days

everest-three-passes-trek
Recommended by 100% of travelers.
Gokyo Lake During Everest Three Passes TrekGokyo Lake During Winter Everest Three Passes Trek
At a glance
    Highlights

    The Everest Three Passes Trek is a wild and awesome adventure in the Himalayas. You’ll hike over three big mountain passes, visit stunning lakes, and walk through cool little Sherpa villages. It’s the perfect way to see a more peaceful and untouched side of Everest, far from the usual busy routes.

    • Cross three high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
    • Visit Gokyo Lakes and enjoy amazing views from Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
    • Walk across the huge Ngozumpa Glacier.

    Discover Sherpa culture in villages like Namche Bazaar and monasteries such as Tengboche.

    Sherpa Culture & Local Highlights

    On the trek, you’ll also visit Tengboche Monastery to experience its rich traditions and local religious customs. The Sherpa hospitality and delicious cuisine add a warm, welcoming touch to your journey.

    Along the way, you’ll enjoy Sherpa festivals, learn about their customs, and understand the local etiquette that makes the everest three passes Trek truly unforgettable.

    The Everest Three Passes Trek is not your average Himalayan walk — it’s a full-on, high-altitude adventure designed for those who want to see Everest from every angle and earn it every step of the way. Spanning about 17 days, this route takes you across three of the tallest and most dramatic mountain passes in the Khumbu: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). Each pass offers something wildly different — razor-sharp ridgelines, frozen glacial lakes, and panoramic views that will stop you in your tracks.

    What makes this trek so special isn’t just the altitude or distance — it’s the quiet moments in high alpine valleys, the soft clatter of yak bells echoing through stone-walled villages, and the sheer sense of remoteness you feel crossing over icy trails with Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Everest towering above. 

    Unlike the more crowded Everest Base Camp route, the Three Passes loop lets you explore deeper, weaving through Gokyo Lakes, Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, and far beyond. All while soaking in Sherpa culture, rugged glaciers, and breathtaking Himalayan silence.

    Make no mistake — it’s tough. Long hiking days, steep climbs, unpredictable weather, and thin air over 5,000 meters will push your limits. But with the proper preparation, good pacing, and a trusted team, it’s an experience that feels raw, wild, and truly earned.

    Ready to start? Contact Abound Holidays today and get going!

    Why Everest Three Passes Trek?

    The Everest Three Passes Trek is definitely tougher than the regular Base Camp trek, but it’s also way more thrilling. You’ll be crossing glaciers and high mountain passes, with jaw-dropping views around every corner and most of all you’ll be on quieter trails with fewer people. 

    Everest High Three Pass Trip Facts

    • Duration: 17 to 21 days
    • Distance: Approximately 99 miles (160 km)
    • Highest elevation: 18,159 ft (5,535 m) at Kongma La Pass
    • Difficulty: Challenging
    • Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges
    • Best seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

    Best Time to Do the Everest Three Passes Trek

    The best time to do the Everest Three Passes Trek is in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). Spring has warmer weather, blooming flowers, and less snow on the high passes. Autumn is cooler, with super clear skies and incredible mountain views.

    Spring feels fresh and colorful, while autumn is crisp and dry, perfect for photos. Both seasons are great for the three-high passes trek.

    If you’re thinking of going in the off-season, remember that the monsoon brings heavy rain and landslides, and winter is super cold with deep snow—only good if you’re really experienced.

    Everest Three Passes Trek Difficulty

    Everest Three Passes Trek is tough because you must climb steep trails and cross glaciers at high altitudes - over 17,000 feet (5,181 m).

    The air gets thinner up there, so altitude sickness can happen. You’ll be hiking 6 to 8 hours daily, so you must be physically fit and mentally strong.

    How Challenging is the Everest Three Passes Trek?

    The everest three passeses Trek also know as Three HIgh Passes trek  is one of the toughest adventures you can take on in the Himalayas. It's not just a regular walk in the mountains—it's a full-on challenge that tests your body, your mind, and your willpower.

    You don’t need to be a professional climber, but you do need to be fit, prepared, and ready for some serious hiking.

    So, what makes it so hard?

    1. Three High Passes Over 5,000 Meters

    The trek includes crossing three huge mountain passes: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). That’s higher than most places in the world—where the air is thin and every step takes effort.

    2. Altitude Sickness is Real

    At high altitude, your body gets less oxygen. This can cause headaches, nausea, and tiredness. That’s called altitude sickness, and it’s something you need to take seriously. The trek is designed to help you adjust slowly, but it still pushes your limits.

    3. Long, Tough Days

    Expect to walk 6 to 8 hours a day, sometimes more. Some trails are steep, rocky, or icy. You’ll need to be focused and careful—especially when crossing the passes, which can be slippery or snowy, even in the best seasons.

    4. Weather Can Be Wild

    In the mountains, the weather can change fast. You might start your day under a clear blue sky and end it in snow or freezing wind. Good gear and a flexible mindset are a must.

    5. Remote Trails

    This isn’t like hiking near a city. You’re deep in the mountains, far from roads and hospitals. That’s part of the adventure—but it also means you need to be prepared and travel with a guide or a group that knows the area well.

    Everest Route Variations During the Everest Three Passes Trek

    The Everest Three Passes Trek isn’t one-size-fits-all — there are a few great variations depending on your schedule, interest, or adventure level.

    1. Gokyo-only or Clockwise/Counterclockwise Treks

    • You can do the full loop either clockwise or counterclockwise — both are popular
    • Short on time? Go for a Gokyo-only trek and focus on the stunning Gokyo Lakes region

    2. Link with Island Peak, EBC Classic, or Gokyo Ri

    • Add on Island Peak climbing for a mountaineering challenge
    • Combine with the classic Everest Base Camp trek if it’s your first time
    • Hike up to Gokyo Ri for epic panoramic Himalayan views

    Itinerary

    We kick things off with a thrilling mountain flight to Lukla Airport, perched high in the hills. After landing, we stretch our legs with a gentle trek to Phakding, passing mani stones, fluttering prayer flags, and the serene Dudh Koshi River.

    • Max Altitude:2,610 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:3-4 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:8 km
    • Transport:Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (35 minutes)

    Today’s trail takes us over high suspension bridges and through pine-covered valleys as we steadily climb to the bustling Sherpa hub of Namche Bazaar. This is where the mountains truly begin to open up.

    • Max Altitude:3,440 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:5-6 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:10 km

    Time to slow down and let your body adjust. We explore viewpoints above Namche, soak in the first clear views of Everest, and maybe visit the Sherpa Museum. A short acclimatization hike helps us adapt.

    • Max Altitude:3,440 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:2-3 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:Optional short hikes

    We leave the crowds behind and head west to the quiet, spiritual village of Thame, once home to Tenzing Norgay. The trail winds through forests and past old monasteries, giving you a feel of untouched Khumbu.

    • Max Altitude:3,800 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:4-5 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:9 km

    As we gain elevation, the air gets thinner and the landscape turns more alpine. We make our way to Lungden, a peaceful village where we rest before crossing our first major pass.

    • Max Altitude:4,380 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:4-5 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:8 km

    An early start takes us over the stunning Renjo La Pass (5,360m). The views of Gokyo Lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, and a line of Himalayan giants are nothing short of legendary. We descend to the turquoise waters of Gokyo.

    • Max Altitude:4,790 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:7-8 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:12 km

    We rise early to hike up Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for one of the best panoramic views in Nepal — with Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu in the frame. Then, we spend the rest of the day relaxing near the lake.

    • Max Altitude:4,790 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:3-4 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:4 km (round Trip)

    On Day 8, we cross the huge Ngozumpa Glacier to reach Thagnak, a small village below Cho La pass. The trail’s rocky but manageable, with amazing glacier views all around.

    • Max Altitude:4,700 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:3-4 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:6 km

    Another big day as we make the steep, icy climb over Cho La Pass (5,420m). The trail can be challenging depending on conditions, but the reward is a dramatic crossing surrounded by glaciers and rugged peaks.

    • Max Altitude:4,830 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:7-8 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    We rejoin the main Everest Base Camp trail today, walking past Cholatse and catching more glacier views as we reach the busy settlement of Lobuche, a final rest stop before EBC.

    • Max Altitude:4,940 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:4-5 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:8 km

    We trek to Gorakshep, drop our bags, and continue on to the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m). With Khumbu Icefall right in front of you, it’s a surreal experience you won’t forget.

    • Max Altitude:5,164 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:6-7 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:13 km

    We start before dawn to hike Kala Patthar (5,545m), the best viewpoint for Everest’s summit. After sunrise, we descend back to Lobuche for a well-earned rest.

    • Max Altitude:4,940 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:6-7 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:12 km

    We take on the third and final pass today — the towering Kongma La (5,535m). It’s the most remote of the three and offers incredible solitude. After crossing, we descend into the Imja Valley and reach Chhukung.

    • Max Altitude:4,730 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:7-8 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:13 km

    We descend from Chhukung and pass through Pangboche and back into lush rhododendron forests before arriving at Tengboche, home to the beautiful Tengboche Monastery.

    • Max Altitude:3,860 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:5-6 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:12 km

    We retrace our steps to Namche, enjoying the warmth of a lower altitude and familiar faces. A hot shower and bakery stop might just be in order.

    • Max Altitude:3,440 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:4-5 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:10 km

    Today is your last day on the trail. We make our way back to Lukla, wrapping up the loop and reflecting on everything this trek gave us.

    • Max Altitude:2,860 m
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:6-7 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:18 km

    We board an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, leaving the mountains behind. Time to celebrate your incredible achievement.

    • Max Altitude:1,400 m
    • Meals:Breakfast
    • Transport:Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (35 minutes)

    Special Mention for Lukla's flight in the itinerary section as well as the essential information section. 

    We would like to inform you regarding the Lukla flight details which may affect your itinerary. During peak seasons (including March, April, May, September, October, and November) the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali due to air traffic expansion in Kathmandu, which is about a 5 to 6-hour drive from Kathmandu. Whereas, during nonpeak seasons (including January, February, June, July, August, and December) the flight is operated from Kathmandu.

    Please be aware that the decision regarding the operation of flights solely depends on the airline and is influenced by the volume of travelers during the specific month.

    Unpleasant weather conditions, congested traffic in the Airport, unmanaged runway, topographical difficulties, etc., are the significant reasons for Lukla flight delay/cancellation. Therefore, if you intend on trekking in the land of Everest region, arranging additional one or two days in your trip is highly preferable. This will help in case of flight delay/cancellation and thus board on the pre-planned international flight.

    Cost Details
    What's Included
    • Airport pick up and drop off during the international arrivals/departures (complimentary)
    • Kathmandu Lukla Kathmandu / manthali - Lukla - manthali flight transfer
    • Kathmandu - Manthali - Kathmandu in a shared tourist standard hiace
    • 16 nights of the best available tea house accommodations on a double/triple sharing basis
    • 3 meals per day (choice from the menu)
    • 3 hot drinks per day 
    • Fresh fruits as dessert during the trek
    • Local guide, English speaking, WFR trained
    • Food, accommodations, daily wages, insurance for the guide and porters
    • TIMS, Permits, and Entrance for Everest Region Trekking
    • Duffel bag, t-shirt, trip completion certificate, and a trip as souvenirs
    • #CarryMeBag for responsible waste collection throughout the trek
    • First aid kit with emergency medicines
    • Portable oxygen bottle for emergency (30 USD/bottle if used)
    • Daily personal health assessment by your guide
    • All the company service charges and government taxes
    What's not Included
    • International flights to Kathmandu
    • Nepalese visa fare and application charge, if required
    • Extra days in the mountains due to weather issues, flight cancellations, early arrivals, late departures, and personal health issues
    • Travel insurance for Nepal
    • Personal trekking gear and equipment
    • Porter service (additional 220 USD for 11 days of trek)
    • Personal expenses like soft/hard drinks, mineral water, hot water, snacks, laundry, internet, electricity, and telephone bills
    • Credit/Debit card processing fees (3.5%), if you use it while making the trip payment
    • Tipping your guides, porters, and drivers (expected)
    • Anything which is not mentioned in the above inclusive section
    Availability
    Select a Departure Month
    From Sep 10, 2025
    To Sep 09, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$0
    From Sep 24, 2025
    To Sep 23, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$0
    Good to Know

    Everest Three Passes Trek Cost Breakdown

    The cost of the everest three passes Trek depends on the kind of experience you want to get from it and what kind of package you choose.

    1. Package Inclusions/Exclusions

    For package inclusion and exclusions, read it in our Cost Details summary.

    2. Budget vs. Luxury Experience

    • Budget ($1,400–$1,700 USD): Basic meals and tea house stays
    • Mid-range ($1,800–$2,200 USD): Private rooms and more comfort
    • Luxury ($2,500+ USD): Hot showers, private guide, better food, and high-end service

    3. Guide/Porter Costs and Group Discounts

    • Guide cost: $25–$35 per day
    • Porter cost: $15–$25 per day
    • Group discounts: Available if you trek with others

    Fitness & Acclimatization For Everest Three Passes Trek

    Getting in shape before the trek and allowing your body time to adjust during it can make a huge difference in how well you handle the journey.

    • Start training a few weeks in advance — walking, hiking, or cycling helps build stamina.
    • Focus on consistency — even 30–60 minutes daily can prep your body.
    • Add uphill walks if possible to simulate trekking conditions.
    • Take it slow on the trail — don’t push too hard, especially at altitude.
    • Plan the rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to acclimatize properly.
    • Drink lots of water, eat well, and bring Diamox or other basic meds.
    • Pay attention to how your body feels — it's the best guide out there.

    Accommodations and Food During Trek

    Teahouses along the Everest Three Passes route are welcoming but straightforward, and the food keeps you fueled for those long days on the trail.

    Accommodation

    • Stay in small mountain lodges known as teahouses
    • Basic rooms, usually shared with twin beds and blankets
    • Option to upgrade to a private room at an extra cost (if available)

    Food

    • Hot local meals like dal bhat, momos, noodles, and soups
    • Warm drinks like tea and hot lemon are widely available
    • Bring your own snacks or energy bars for an extra boost on long days

    Required Permits for Everest High Three Passes Trek

    You'll need a few important permits to start your journey on the Everest High Three Passes Trek.

    1. TIMS Card

    Think of this as your official trekking pass that helps keep track of everyone on the trail. It’s a quick formality but super important.

    2. Sagarmatha National Park Permit

    This one’s your ticket into the incredible Sagarmatha National Park, where you can explore Everest’s exceptional natural beauty.

    3. Khumbu Entry Permit

    This local permit is required to wander through the charming Sherpa villages in the Khumbu region. It also helps support the communities that welcome trekkers like you.

    No need to worry, as Abound Holidays will arrange all these permits for you.

    What to Pack For the Everest Three Passes Trek?

    Packing smart for the Everest Three Passes Trek helps you handle the cold, altitude, and rough trails.

    1. Essential Gear

    • Sturdy hiking boots for rough trails
    • Trekking poles to save your knees
    • Crampons for icy sections
    • Headlamp for early mornings or late evenings
    • Plenty of water bottles
    • Strong sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

    2. Clothing

    • Warm thermals for layering
    • Down jacket to beat the cold
    • Waterproof rain gear — wet weather can change fast
    • Gloves and a warm hat
    • Extra socks to keep your feet dry

    3. Medicine

    • Diamox for altitude sickness
    • Basic painkillers and blister treatment
    • Any personal meds you need

    Insurance and Emergency Services

    Everest Three Passes Trek requires travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

    The three-pass trek includes challenging high passes where helicopter rescues might be needed, and they can be expensive. 

    At Abound Holidays, we ensure you have the right support to stay safe during your Everest high three passes trek.

    Ready to Book Your Everest Three Passes Trek?

    Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Abound Holidays. Our expert guides, careful planning, and personalized service make sure your Everest 3-pass trek is safe and truly life-changing.

    Contact Abound Holidays today to book your everest three passes Trek and begin the journey of a lifetime!

    Everest Three Passes Trek - 17 Days FAQs

    • Technically, yes — but it’s not for the faint-hearted. This trek demands solid physical fitness and mental endurance. With a professional guide, proper pacing, and enough acclimatization days, a beginner can complete it. That said, prior high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended, as the route crosses three high passes over 5,000 meters and requires stamina for long, continuous days of hiking.

    • It’s one of the biggest risks on this trek. You’ll be trekking above 5,000 meters multiple times — Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) — all well into high-altitude zones. Without proper acclimatization, you’re at serious risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. A good itinerary includes rest days (usually in Namche, Dingboche, or Gokyo), slow ascents, and hydration, and guides often carry oximeters and basic first aid.

    • You don’t legally have to hire a guide for the Everest Three Passes Trek, but honestly, it’s a smart move. This trek is way more remote and tricky than the regular Base Camp route, with glacier crossings, tricky navigation, and unpredictable weather. Having a guide not only keeps you safe but also helps with acclimatization, locks in your accommodation during busy times, and gives you cool insights into the local Sherpa culture.

    • It’s possible, but not ideal. While solo trekking is legal in the Everest region, the Three Passes route is demanding, with fewer trekkers on some segments and unpredictable trail conditions (especially over Cho La, which can be icy). Solo trekkers face higher risks if injured, sick, or caught in bad weather without help. For safety, hiring a guide or joining a group is strongly advised.

    • This trek is known as the toughest teahouse trek in the Everest region. You’ll be hiking 6 to 9 hours a day, crossing high mountain passes, and making your way over rocky trails and glacial moraine. You’ll need good physical strength, solid cardio, and the right gear—think crampons, trekking poles, and layers to stay warm. But if you’re ready for the challenge, it’s one of the most rewarding adventures you can have in Nepal.

    • It’s a circuit trek that connects Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and three iconic passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. Unlike the standard Everest trek, this loop offers a deeper exploration of Sagarmatha National Park, fewer crowds, and diverse landscapes — from alpine valleys to glacial lakes to high Himalayan ridges.

    • The full trek usually takes 17 to 21 days, depending on your route, rest days, and side trips (like Everest Base Camp or Gokyo Ri). The loop starts and ends in Lukla, and covers roughly 160–170 km, with elevations ranging from 2,860m (Lukla) to 5,545m (Kala Patthar). Sufficient time for acclimatization is key to completing it safely.

    Similar Trips
    You may also like