The Three Passes Trek : Exploring Nepal’s Everest Region

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10162
20 days
Availability : October through June
Kathmandu Airport
Lukla Airport
Min Age : 18+
Max People : 16

The Three Passes Trek: Exploring Nepal’s Everest Region

Are you ready for the ultimate adventure? The Three Passes Trek in Nepal offers an unparalleled experience, taking you through the heart of the majestic Everest region. This trek is designed for those seeking a challenge, offering a combination of stunning landscapes, high-altitude passes, and mesmerizing views of the world’s highest peaks. With three high passes—Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La—this trek is a test of endurance and an opportunity to explore the stunning Himalayas like never before.

Why Book the Three Passes Trek with Us?

Embarking on the Three Passes Trek with us guarantees a seamless, safe, and unforgettable experience. From expert guides to tailored itineraries, we ensure that every aspect of your journey is handled with care and precision.

Expert Guides and Support

Our experienced, local guides are experts in navigating the Everest region. They will lead you across the three high passes, ensuring you stay safe while providing valuable insights into the culture, history, and geography of the region.

Comfort and Convenience

We provide comfortable accommodations in well-established tea houses along the route, ensuring you can rest and recover each night. You’ll enjoy traditional Nepalese meals, fueling your body for the physical challenges ahead.

Tailored Itinerary and Acclimatization

Our well-paced itinerary is designed to ensure proper acclimatization, giving your body the time it needs to adjust to the high altitudes. We prioritize your safety and comfort while still delivering an exciting challenge.

Unmatched Views

The Three Passes Trek offers spectacular panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—just to name a few. Plus, a visit to Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Peak will give you some of the most stunning views of the region.

What Makes the Three Passes Trek Special?

The Three Passes Trek is more than just a trek; it’s an adventure of a lifetime that pushes you through the awe-inspiring Everest region. Here’s what awaits:

Renjo La Pass (5,340m)

The first of the three passes, Renjo La, offers an incredible view of Mt. Everest and Gokyo Lake. It’s a challenging but rewarding climb, giving you a sense of achievement as you stand at its summit.

Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Peak (5,483m)

Nestled in a hidden valley, Gokyo Lake is one of the most beautiful and serene places on Earth. After visiting the lake, a half-day hike to Gokyo Peak offers panoramic views of Everest and surrounding mountains.

Cho La Pass (5,420m)

The Cho La Pass is the second high pass and requires careful navigation due to its glacier and rocky terrain. Reaching the top offers unmatched views and a sense of accomplishment.

Kongma La Pass (5,400m)

The final pass, Kongma La, is one of the most exhilarating parts of the trek. With views of Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu, it’s the perfect finale to this challenging adventure.

Cultural Immersion

Along the trek, you’ll pass through charming Sherpa villages, such as Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Pangboche, where you can learn about the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture and history of the Khumbu region.

Top 5 FAQs About the Three Passes Trek

1. How difficult is the Three Passes Trek?

The Three Passes Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek that requires a good level of fitness. With three high passes to cross and steep terrain, it’s recommended for experienced trekkers who are comfortable with long days of hiking at high elevations.

2. What’s the best time to do the Three Passes Trek?

The ideal times for the Three Passes Trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the best weather and visibility for enjoying the stunning Himalayan views.

3. What permits do I need for the Three Passes Trek?

To trek in the Everest region, you will need:

  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) for safety tracking.
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit for entry to the park.
  • Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit for access to the Khumbu region.

These permits can be obtained through registered agencies or in Kathmandu.

4. How long does the Three Passes Trek take?

The Three Passes Trek typically takes 20 to 22 days depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule. It’s essential to allow extra days for proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

5. Do I need to be very fit to do the Three Passes Trek?

While the trek is physically demanding, if you’re in good health, regularly active, and prepared for high-altitude hiking, you should be able to handle the trek. We’ll help you with acclimatization and ensure you’re prepared for each phase of the journey.

Book Your Everest Three Passes Trek with Us Today!

The Three Passes Trek is not for the faint-hearted, but with us, you’ll be in good hands every step of the way. Our experienced guides, well-organized itineraries, and dedication to your safety will ensure that you enjoy the trek to its fullest. Don’t miss your chance to experience the grandeur of the Everest region and conquer the iconic Three Passes!

Book now and begin your journey to the top of the world!

Once you reach Lukla Airport, the trek begins, and you will trek to Phading (2610m), a nice local settlement. On the second day, you’ll trek to Namche Bazaar (3400m), a unique hillside village. At just over 3400m above sea level, it’s an ideal spot for acclimatization, higher than many are accustomed to without reaching the trek’s dizzying heights. The trek then heads towards Thame and then Nangpa Valley.

Three Pass Trek: Hiking through challenging mountain passes in the Himalayas.
Conquering the Three Passes: A High-Altitude Himalayan Odyssey.

Three Passes Trek of Everest Base Camp

After this, you’ll encounter Renjo La (5340m) – the first of the three high passes – particularly challenging. Therefore, a good level of fitness is vital while crossing the passes. After crossing the Renjo La, you’ll have a stunning view of Mt. Everest and the Crystal Gokyo Lake.

During your stay at Gokyo Lake, you’ll spend two nights exploring the hidden valley. This includes visiting the 4th Lake and a half-day hike to Gokyo Peak (5483m). You will then cross the 2nd Pass – Cho La (5420m) in a 2–day trek, rejoin the main Everest trail and head towards Lukla Airport. You’ll then trek downwards to Lobujue before making your way to Kongma La (5400m), the last of the high passes, followed by the summit of Chukhung, the final peak. Here, you’ll find unparalleled views of the North Ridge, the surrounding area, and Cho Oyu.

rekkers posing amidst the scenic beauty of the Three Passes Trek in Nepal's Everest Region.

Adventurers posing amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Three Passes Trek.

Return to Lukla after successful completion of the Three Passes Trek

Coming around in a full circle, it brings you back to Lukla through many villages rich in culture and tradition, such as Dingboche, Pangboche, Thyangboche, Namche Bazar, Manjo and Phakding. Once back in Kathmandu, you’ll have a chance to discover the city properly, get a hotel to rest in or allow yourself to take in what you’ve just achieved.

Essential Permits for Three Passes Trek

Securing permits is crucial for trekking through Nepal’s Three Passes region, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Here’s what you need:

Firstly, obtain the TIMS Card, mandatory for all trekkers, aiding in safety and emergencies. Secondly, the Sagarmatha National Park Permit for park entry should be secured to support conservation efforts. Lastly, acquire the Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Permit for accessing Khumbu region trails. Obtain these permits through authorized agencies or government offices in Kathmandu or trekking starting points, such as Lukla. Throughout your journey, ensure compliance with regulations and conservation practices by carrying them along.

Tour Details

Departure & Return Location

Kathmandu Suite Home, Thamel (Google Map)

Departure Time

Between 7-8 am

Price Includes

  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast (pre and post-trek)
  • Accommodation at guest houses during the trek
  • Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Friendly English-speaking guide and strong porter (sharing between 2 members)
  • Entrance Fees (National Park, TIMS and Local Government Fee)
  • Domestic Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and return

Price Excludes

  • Tipping for guide and porter
  • Any private expenses
  • Any bottled drinks (including tea/coffee, mineral water etc.)
  • Trekking items (sleeping bag etc.)
  • Travel Insurance

Complementaries

  • Company T-Shirt
  • Trekking Duffle Bag
What to Expect

The route to Everest Base Camp is said to be one of the most gruelling treks around, covering over 60km and climbing up to 5545m, and none are more challenging than this 3 passes trek. Test yourself by trekking with us through the high passes – Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La – which tower at over 5,000m each and aren’t featured on the standard Everest Base Camp (E.B.C.) trek.

  • Better than the best adventure trek in Khumbu Region for Adventure lover
  • Unbeatable views of the Himalaya Ranges from 3 Passes
  • Amazing crystal view of Gokyo Lake
  • Pyramid view of Mt. Everest
Itinerary

Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal

Upon arrival, you’ll be assisted and escorted to the hotel. Breakfast included.

Day 2Fly to Lukla (2800m) and trek to Phakding (2610m)

Fly to Lukla and then embark on a 3-hour trek to Phakding. Spend the night at a local lodge, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 3Namche Bazar (3400m)

Trek from Phakding to the bustling Namche Bazar. Spend the night at a traditional local lodge, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 4Acclimatization day

Day of acclimatization in Namche with a hike to Khumjung and Khunde for breathtaking Everest views. Stay the night at a local lodge; meals are provided: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 5Trek to Thame (3820m)

Journey to Thame (3820m) through Phurte and Thamo. Spend the night at a local lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 6Trek to Lungden (4350m)

From Thame, climb to the higher altitudes of Lungden at 4350m, traversing the majestic Himalayan landscapes. Stay overnight in a local lodge with meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Day 7Acclimatization day

Acclimating at Lungden, take a day trip to the viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Renjo Pass range and the mountainous borders of Tibet. Overnight at a local lodge, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 8Renjo La Pass (5340m) and Gokyo Lake (4790m)

Trek via the Renjo La Pass (5340m) to reach Gokyo Lake (4790m), with a stunning view of Mt. Everest en route. Stay the night at a local lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Day 9Hiking to Gokyo Ri (5483m)

Early ascent to Gokyo Ri (5483m) and a return to Gokyo Lake for lunch. The trek then progresses to Dragnag (4700m) through the Ngozumpa Glacier. Overnight stay at a local lodge, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 10Cho La Pass (5420m) and Dzongla (4830m)

Trekking through Cho La at 5420m to reach Dzongla at 4830m. Stay the night at a local lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Day 11Trek to Gorakshep (5140m)

Journey to Ghorak Shep at 5140m, passing through Labuje at 4910m. Spend the night at a local lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 12Trek to Everest Base Camp (5400m)

Embark on a trek to Everest Base Camp at 5400m, then head back to Gorak Shep at 5140m. Stay the night at a local lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Day 13Kala Pathar Hiking (5545m)

Ascend to Kala Pathar at 5545m to witness the majestic Mt. Everest standing tall at 8848m. Afterwards, make a descent to Gorakshep for a midday meal, followed by a further descent to Labuje at 4910m. The night is spent in a local lodge, complete with breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 14Kongma La (5400m) and Dingboche (4360m)

Journey across the Kongma La at 5400m, leading to Chhukung (4750m) or Dingboche at 4360m. The evening is reserved for relaxation at a local lodge, with meals covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 15Trek to Tengboche (3867m)

Navigate through Pangboche on the way to Tengboche at 3867m. Spend the night at a local lodge with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Day 16Trek to Monjo (2800m)

Journey through Namche Bazar en route to Monjo (2800m). Stay the night at a local lodge with meals covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 17Trek to Lukla

Follow the Dudh Koshi River as the path leads to Lukla. Settle in for the night at a local lodge, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 18Return to Kathmandu

Taking a morning flight back to Kathmandu, with an overnight stay at the hotel. Breakfast included.

Day 19Leisure day in Kathmandu

Additional days are reserved in Kathmandu to account for potential flight delays. Stay overnight at the hotel with breakfast included.

Day 20Departure

Proceed to the airport for your onward journey.

Detailed Itinerary – Everest Three Passes Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and enjoy your first taste of Nepali hospitality. (Breakfast included)

Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,800m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
An early morning scenic flight takes us to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. After landing, we begin a gentle 3-hour trek downhill through Sherpa villages and along the Dudh Koshi River to reach Phakding. Overnight at a local lodge. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,400m)
Today’s walk follows the river and crosses several suspension bridges before climbing through pine forests to reach the lively mountain hub of Namche Bazaar. This is a bustling Sherpa town, rich in culture and mountain energy. Overnight at a local lodge. (All meals included)

Day 4: Acclimatization in Namche (Hike to Khumjung & Khunde)
A rest day to acclimatize. We take a scenic hike to the twin villages of Khumjung and Khunde, offering panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Return to Namche in the afternoon and spend the night at a local lodge. (All meals included)

Day 5: Trek to Thame (3,820m)
Leaving Namche behind, we follow a quiet trail that passes through peaceful rhododendron forests and traditional settlements like Phurte and Thamo before reaching the picturesque village of Thame. Overnight stay at a lodge. (All meals included)

Day 6: Trek to Lungden (4,350m)
We continue ascending gradually through a less-trodden path surrounded by raw Himalayan beauty. After several hours of walking, we arrive in Lungden, a high-altitude village known for its remoteness and tranquility. (All meals included)

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Lungden
A second day to adjust to the altitude. We hike to a nearby ridge or viewpoint with dramatic views of the Renjo La Pass and distant peaks lining the Tibetan border. Evening rest at the lodge. (All meals included)

Day 8: Cross Renjo La Pass (5,340m) & Trek to Gokyo (4,790m)
Today is a challenging but rewarding climb over Renjo La Pass. At the top, we’re greeted with one of the most breathtaking vistas in the Everest region, including Everest, Lhotse, and the turquoise lakes of Gokyo. We descend to Gokyo for an overnight stay by the lake. (All meals included)

Day 9: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483m) & Trek to Dragnag (4,700m)
An early morning ascent to Gokyo Ri rewards us with unforgettable sunrise views over the Himalayas. After returning for lunch, we cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and head to Dragnag. (All meals included)

Day 10: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)
We begin early to cross the icy Cho La Pass. This is a steep and adventurous trail, but the dramatic mountain scenery makes every step worth it. Descend to the small settlement of Dzongla. (All meals included)

Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,140m)
We follow the glacial valley through Lobuche (4,910m) and continue to Gorak Shep, our base for the Everest Base Camp hike. Breathtaking views surround us. (All meals included)

Day 12: Visit Everest Base Camp (5,400m)
This is the big day! We trek to Everest Base Camp and walk along the Khumbu Glacier. After soaking in the energy of the world’s highest mountain, we return to Gorak Shep for the night. (All meals included)

Day 13: Climb Kala Patthar (5,545m) & Descend to Lobuche (4,910m)
Before dawn, we ascend to Kala Patthar for what is often considered the best close-up view of Mount Everest. Afterward, we return to Gorak Shep for breakfast and then trek down to Lobuche. (All meals included)

Day 14: Cross Kongma La Pass (5,400m) & Trek to Dingboche (4,360m)
Another high pass awaits as we make our way over the Kongma La. This lesser-traveled route offers a serene and dramatic landscape. We end the day in the peaceful village of Dingboche. (All meals included)

Day 15: Trek to Tengboche (3,867m)
We descend through alpine meadows and past prayer-flag-lined trails, passing Pangboche on our way to the spiritual heart of the Khumbu—Tengboche Monastery. (All meals included)

Day 16: Trek to Monjo (2,800m)
We retrace our steps through Namche and continue descending to Monjo. This stretch offers one last chance to enjoy the familiar suspension bridges and scenic river trails. (All meals included)

Day 17: Return to Lukla
Our final trekking day takes us back to Lukla via Phakding. Celebrate the successful journey with your trekking crew in the evening. (All meals included)

Day 18: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Catch a morning flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel for a well-earned rest. (Breakfast included)

Day 19: Contingency / Leisure Day in Kathmandu
This extra day allows flexibility in case of weather-related flight delays from Lukla. If all goes well, enjoy a relaxing day exploring Kathmandu or shopping for souvenirs. (Breakfast included)

Day 20: Final Departure
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. We hope you take home unforgettable memories of your Himalayan adventure!

Photos
4 Reviews
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Christopher Robertson

Family Traveller

Nepal Hiking arranged all aspect of out hike of the three passes, Everest base camp and other peaks. All communication from Nepal to Australia prior to us landing in Kathmandu was first class. A real credit to the experienced company. Our guide and porters were very experiences, welcoming and eager to please. I cant speak highly enough of all three (we had a group of four very experienced and well travelled adventures). The hotel facilities at either end were 5 Stars in the main tourist district. Nothing was to much to ask. Probably one of the best if not the best trips we have done over the past 20 years
Do yourself a favour and book any adventure or touring activity through Nepalhiking.com.
Thanks again Gukul & Bhairam

23 November 2023

Isabella Martinez

Solo Traveller

Definitely a challenge, but well worth the effort! Nepal Hiking – Bhairam, Tulak, and my guide – very professional and thorough. I highly recommend!

26 May 2022

Bill Passman

Solo Traveller

Namaste Tilak

I just wanted to thank you and your wonderful staff for my incredible trip to Gokyo Ri, Chola Pass, Kalapathar, and Everest Base Camp. It was the best trip of my life. I especially want to thank my guide, Ram, and porter, Santos, who made the trip much easier than ever imagined. The scenery was incredible and will forever be remembered by me. Your staff in Kathmandu was always there to ensure everything was running smoothly. After talking to those on the trail who did not have guides or porters about their difficulties, I cannot imagine even attempting the trip without my wonderful help.

I also had a great time on the tour of Kathmandu, river rafting, and Chitwan National Park. It was a great way to end my trip. The hotels in Kathmandu and Chitwan were especially nice. I did not expect such luxury at such a great price.

I look forward to returning to Nepal to do the Annapurna Circuit. I look forward to seeing everyone again.

Thanks again.

BILL PASSMAN NATCHEZ
Mississippi, USA

18 September 2018

Ethan Thompson

Solo Traveller

Highly, highly recommend, please use this company.

What can I say about Nepal Hiking…. I owe these guys my life!

Having broken my ankle (slipped on some scree) on the way down from Cho La, Nepal Hiking couldn’t have done any more to assist me. They organised a helicopter evacuation as well as all the hospital arrangements once back in Kathmandu, liaising with my insurance company throughout.

I cannot thank my guide and porter, Gakul and Jit, enough for taking care of me and getting off the mountains.

Bhairam and Gakul made regular visits while I was in hospital, ensuring my welfare was being looked after while there. Even after I left the hospital, Bhairam arranged for lifts for me when I needed to return for treatment, as well as organising me a lift to the airport.

A truly professional company throughout my ordeal. Do not hesitate to use them for any tours in Nepal.

8 March 2018
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