Everest Three Passes Trek-19 days

Things to Know
  • Duration19 Days
  • Difficulty Level Technical Challenging
  • Altitude 5,545 m Kalapathar
  • Trip Type High Altitude Trekking
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Mar to May | Oct to Nov
What You’ll Do
  • Stunning Himalayan Views: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu.
  • Cross Three High Passes: Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La—each above 5,000 m.
  • Explore Sherpa Culture: Experience traditional villages, monasteries, and local hospitality.
  • Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri: Turquoise glacial lakes and panoramic mountain views.
  • Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: Spectacular Everest  Views.
  • Optional Side Trips: Chhukung Ri, Nangkartshang Peak, Gokyo Lakes, and Khumjung.
  • Sagarmatha National Park: Explore pristine Himalayan landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding high-altitude trekking adventures in Nepal, offering an immersive journey through the remote and spectacular landscapes of the Everest (Khumbu) region. This demanding circuit combines the highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek with three legendary high mountain passes: Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 m). The trek takes you beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route, passing through dramatic valleys, traditional Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and rugged Himalayan terrain. Along the way, you explore iconic destinations including Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), Kala Patthar (5,545 m), Gokyo Ri, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes. With spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan peaks, the Everest Three Passes Trek is an ideal choice for experienced trekkers seeking a challenging, remote, and complete Everest region trekking experience. The combination of high-altitude passes, glacial lakes, panoramic viewpoints, and authentic Sherpa culture makes it a truly unforgettable Nepal trekking adventure

Views During Three Passes Trek

The trek crosses three legendary mountain passes above 5,000 meters: Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m). Each pass provides a different perspective of the Everest region and unforgettable views of some of the world's highest mountains. From Renjo La Pass, the panorama stretches across Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Gyachung Kang, Nuptse, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The trail then continues toward Cho La Pass, where rugged glaciers, snow-covered peaks, and dramatic alpine landscapes create an unforgettable high-altitude experience. The final challenge, Kongma La Pass, rewards trekkers with magnificent views of Lobuche Peak, Cholatse, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Along the route, iconic viewpoints such as Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), Kala Patthar (5,545 m), and Chhukung Ri (5,550 m) offer exceptional mountain panoramas. The journey includes some of the most iconic destinations in the Everest region, including Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Ri, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes. The trail also passes through famous Sherpa settlements such as Namche Bazaar, Thame, Khumjung, Pangboche, Lobuche, and Chhukung. Beyond the popular trails, the trek explores quieter sections of the Khumbu, where peaceful valleys, alpine meadows, glacial landscapes, prayer flags, mani walls, and traditional mountain settlements reveal a more authentic side of the Everest region.

Sherpa Culture and Sagarmatha National Park

The trek is not only about mountains. It provides an opportunity to experience the unique Sherpa culture and Tibetan Buddhist traditions of the Khumbu. Visit ancient monasteries, spin prayer wheels, cross colorful prayer-flag bridges, and experience the warm hospitality of local communities. Much of the journey passes through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional Himalayan environment and diverse wildlife. With luck, trekkers may encounter Himalayan tahr, musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan monal, snowcock, and other mountain wildlife.

 

Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • Altitude1400 m
  • Accommodation3 Star Hotel
  • Time1-2 hours

Welcome at Airport and transfer to the hotel. An introduction to your trekking program then the rest of the day at your leisure to enjoy the sights, sounds and culture of Kathmandu.

  • Altitude2,620 m | Phakding
  • AccommodationTea house
  • Time3.5 hrs

Once you reach Lukla, have your breakfast while our guide will arrange porters. We assign one porter to every two clients. Begin the trek by descending towards the Dudh Kosi River where you join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, located just above Chaunikharka (2,713 m). The walking is easy and after passing through the small village of Ghat (2,550 m), than Phakding.

Important Lukla Flight Information

Manthali to Lukla Flight (March, April, May, September, October, and November)

During the peak trekking months — March, April, May, September, October, and November — flights to Lukla are generally operated from Ramechhap/Manthali Airport due to high air traffic at Kathmandu. Manthali Airport is located about 5 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. On the flight day, travelers will wake up between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM for an early drive to Manthali in a shared escorted tourist vehicle. From there, you will board a short 20-minute flight to Lukla.

Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (January, February, June, July, August, and December)

During the non-peak seasons — January, February, June, July, August, and December — flights to Lukla typically operate directly from Kathmandu. Please note that the final decision is made by the airlines and depends on the traveler volume for that specific month. On this day, you will usually wake up between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM, after which our staff will escort you to the Kathmandu domestic terminal to board a 35-minute flight to Lukla.

  • Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hrs

The trail goes along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing many suspension bridges and small villages on the way. There is a police check post in Monjo where we'll register our permits. Following a lush woodland, the trail gradually ascends to Namche Bazaar. We'll walk by pine and rhododendron forests. The last few hundred meters of the path to Namche is steep, so you have to be careful while walking.

  • AltitudeHotel Everest View (3,880m)
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time4 hours

Today will be an acclimatization day at Namche. We recommend you to explore Namche. In the morning, we'll hike to Everest View Hotel. The trail ascends along rough foothills, offering a stunning panorama of Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Chamlang, Kongde Ri, etc. Once we reach Hotel Everest View, we can see a clear view of Mt. everest and other peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, Taboche, etc. 

  • Altitude3,855 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time4-5 hrs

The trail from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche offers stunning views of Taboche and Khumbi La. We'll ascend and descend along rugged foothills. From Phungi Thanga, it's an uphill walk to Tengboche Village. Tengboche is a beautiful Sherpa village with the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region and a sensational view of Mt. Ama Dablam.

  • Altitude4,360 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time4-5 hrs

From Tengboche, it's a rhododendron-covered trail that descends to the Imja Khola. Crossing a bridge over the river, we'll walk toward Pangboche village. The route further ascends to Imja Khola Valley and goes through terraces to Dingboche village.

  • Altitude4,730 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time2-3 hrs

Leaving Dingboche, we ascend and descend on a rugged trail. The trail involves walking via terraced farms and small settlements. Passing by the village called Bibre, we'll walk to Chhukung Village,

  • Altitude5,550 m Chhukung RI
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time3-4 hrs (Up-Down)

We’ll take another rest day in Chhukung village. To spend the morning, the team leader will take you to Chhukung Ri (5550). It is a viewpoint that presents breathtaking views of Mt. Ama Dablam, Pumori, Makalu and Lhotse peaks. We'll see many other mountains too.

  • Altitude5,535 m Kongma La pass
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time8-9 hrs

The trail gets strenuous as we start walking towards the Kongma La Pass. Two trails lead to Kongma La. One goes northwest of Chhukung over the Nuptse Glacier moraines. Another route first retraces its path back to Bibre and ascends above the Niyang Khola. Because there aren't any lodges or tea houses on the way, we'll carry packed food with us. The landscape from the top of Kongma La Pass is outstanding. From here, it's a downhill walk to Lobuche village.

Total Ascent: 500 meters 

  • Altitude5,364 m EBC
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time8-9 hrs

Up to Gorak Shep, the trail is relatively gentle. We'll be walking alongside the Khumbu Glacier, enjoying the vast remoteness of the Khumbu region. Away from the bustle of villages at the start of the trek, you'll now see the remoteness and isolation of the Everest Region. The trail then continues to Everest base camp, crossing glacial streams and moraines. The trail gets steep and rocky. From the Mt. Everest base camp, the view of Khumbu Icefall is exceptionally gorgeous. After a quick detour over the base camp, we'll descend to Gorak Shep.

  • Altitude5,550 m Kalapathar
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

Early in the morning, we'll hike to Kala Patthar. It is a steep hike that leads to one of the most popular viewpoints in Khumbu. Our goal is to catch the breathtaking sunrise over snow-capped mountains. The Mount Everest view is heavenly, and we can see the tops of numerous mountains & peaks. After the hike, we'll descend to Dzongla via Lobuche village. The trail is steep and rugged.

  • AltitudeCho La Pass (5420 m)
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time9-10 hrs

On this day, we'll cross another widely known pass called Cho La. The day begins early in the morning, around 4 AM-5 AM. Leaving Dzongla, we ascend following a loose boulder path and pass by a rock fall area. The trail is steep and strenuous. We have to walk on the snow and glacier paths. Upon reaching Cho La top, we get to see the striking panorama of mountains. From here, we carefully descend to Thangnak to spend the night.

  • Altitude4,790 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time2-3 hrs

We have to cross the Khara, Pangka, and Ngozumpa glacier (which is the longest glacier in Nepal).  We can see the beautiful view of Kantaga and the big Mountain Cho-oyu. There are a series of six lakes and the third one is the Gokyo Lake. There is a small village near Gokyo Lake where we will stay 2 nights as we will have a sightseeing and hiking trip around Gokyo.

  • Altitude5,357 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hrs

In the morning, we'll go on a hike to Gokyo Ri. This is the most beautiful viewpoint in the entire Khumbu region, with the awesome looks of Thonak Tsho Lake and the Ngozumba Tsho Lake. The trail is steep and rugged, but the views are worth all the hard walk. We get to see a wonderful panorama of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Nuptse, and Gyachung Kang. The sunrise is equally tempting too. After enjoying the views, we will hike back to Gokyo village and later explore the Gokyo Lakes.

  • AltitudeRenjo La Pass (5,360m )
  • AccommodationLodge
  • Time6-7 hrs

Today, we will be crossing the last pass of our three high passes trek, Renjo La. Leaving Gokyo village, we walk past alpine lakes and glaciers. The trail gradually ascends to the top of the pass. The route is slippery, snowy, and rocky, so we have to be careful while ascending. As usual, the view from the top of the pass is jaw-dropping. Further, gradually descend to Lundhen to spend the night. 

  • Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hrs

After having a warm breakfast in Lundhen, we’ll descend to Thame(3800m). The mountain views on the way are superb. The trail then further goes through lush forests to Namche Bazaar. It is mostly a downhill walk today with fantastic mountain landscapes.

  • Altitude2840 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

Leaving Namche Bazaar, we walk on a steep downhill trail. The trail goes through rhododendron forests and small settlements. Soon we cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge and walk past remote villages. On the way, we will cross many suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi river. From Phakding, the trail ascends to Lukla.

  • Altitude2,850 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time35-minute flight

You will take a return flight from Lukla. Depending on the season and airline decision, the flight may land either in Kathmandu (non-peak months) or Ramechhap/Manthali (peak months). Non-Peak Months (Jan, Feb, Jun, Jul, Aug, Dec): Fly Lukla → Kathmandu, then transfer to your hotel and Peak Months (Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov): Fly Lukla → Manthali, followed by a 5–6 hour drive back to Kathmandu in a shared tourist vehicle.

    Our airport team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport terminal, depending on your flight departure time. You also have the option to extend your trip with us in Nepal.

    Customize TripDownload Brochure
    Trip Map
    Everest Three Passes Trek-19 days map
    Trip Cost Details
    Included
    • All (international and domestic) airport transfers via a tourist vehicle
    •  Accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast
    • Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation during the trek
    • All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), including one hot tea
    • All necessary trekking permits for Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS card, etc
    • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English 
    • Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
    • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government TAX/VAT
    • Certificate of achievement
    Excluded
    • International flight fare
    • Nepal Entry Visa Fee | Nepal Visa Information 
    • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
    • Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
    • Tips to trekking staffs
    • Personal Trekking gears and equipments
    Useful Info

    Arrival, Transportation & Trek Start

    Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, a representative from Iconic Holiday Nepal will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The Everest Three High Passes Trek begins with the journey toward the Everest region. Depending on the season and flight operations, you may travel by road to Manthali Airport (Ramechhap) and take a short flight to Lukla, while direct Kathmandu–Lukla flights may operate during other periods. Flight arrangements are subject to weather and operational conditions, and our team will provide the latest information before departure.

    Accommodation & Meals

    During the trek, you will stay in comfortable teahouses and mountain lodges, generally in twin-sharing rooms. Facilities become simpler as you reach higher elevations, although many lodges provide hot showers, Wi-Fi, electricity, and charging facilities for an additional fee. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the trekking period, with meals featuring Nepali, Tibetan, Asian, and Western options. Dal bhat, momos, noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, eggs, and bread are commonly available. Vegetarian meals are widely offered, while special dietary requirements should be communicated in advance.

    Water, Communication & Luggage

    Safe drinking water can be purchased along the trail, while boiled or filtered water is available at most lodges. We recommend carrying a reusable bottle and using water purification tablets or a suitable filtration system when necessary. Mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi are available in several areas but become limited at higher elevations. Porter service is included according to the package, and we recommend keeping your main luggage within the permitted weight and carrying only essential items in your daypack.

    Best Time & Weather

    The best seasons for the Everest Three High Passes Trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is generally stable and mountain visibility is excellent. Winter brings very cold temperatures and possible heavy snowfall around the passes, while the monsoon season can bring rain, cloudy skies, slippery trails, and flight delays. Because the three passes reach elevations above 5,300 meters, weather conditions can change quickly at any time of year.

    Travel Insurance & Safety

    Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, and trip interruption. Please confirm directly with your insurance provider that helicopter rescue is covered at the maximum altitude of your trek. Our experienced guides monitor your health and acclimatization throughout the journey, and in case of an emergency, Iconic Holiday Nepal will coordinate appropriate assistance, including descent, transportation, or helicopter evacuation when required and available.

    Personal Expenses & Booking

    You should carry sufficient Nepali cash for personal expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled or boiled water, snacks, Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging, laundry, tips, and souvenirs. Around USD 15–25 per day is a reasonable guideline, depending on your spending habits. We recommend booking in advance during the spring and autumn peak seasons to secure accommodation, transportation, and permits. Iconic Holiday Nepal also offers private and customized itineraries based on your preferred dates, budget, fitness level, and travel requirements.

    FAQs

    • Everest base camp trekking usually is 14 to 16 days long. It's the standard time. You can shorten it or extend the itinerary as per your wish. Many travelers also like to combine helicopter returns from Kala Patthar to ditch another 2-3 days of walking back.

    • The three passes trek is 20 days long. You can customize the itinerary to suit your requirements. It is one of the longest treks in Nepal. Each day you walk 9 to 11 km.

    • Yes, you will need a guide for the three passes trek even though you are not obligated to hire one. For safety reasons, we advise our guests to not trek alone in the Himalayas, especially when they are going to cross challenging mountain passes.

    • The three passes connect different areas of the Khumbu region to one another. They are Kongma La (18,209 ft/5,550 m), Cho La (17,782 ft/5,420 m), and Renjo La (17,560 ft/5,360 m).

    • There are three ways to reach Lukla from Kathmandu. The most common one is the Kathmandu Lukla flight. It takes 35 minutes to reach Kathmandu. The second option is to drive to Jiri or Phaplu and trek to Lukla before continuing the journey further. And the last option is a comfortable 45 minutes helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Our Everest three passes trek covers commercial Kathmandu Lukla flights.

    • No, you cannot see Mt. Everest from Lukla. You get the first view of Everest from the Hotel Everest View during your acclimatization hike in Namche Bazaar.

    • Yes, you hike to Everest base camp and Kala Patthar during the 3 high passes trek. You reach EBC right after crossing the first pass, Kongma La.

    • No, the Everest three passes trek is not for beginner trekkers. This trek is challenging and demands previous trekking experience. For beginner trekkers, we have many adventurous trekking packages in the Himalayas that you can check on our site.

    • Yes, you can see Mt. Everest from Gokyo Ri. Moreover, Gokyo Ri offers one of the best views of Mt. Everest, along with other eight-thousanders like Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. Many other snow-capped peaks are seen from Gokyo Ri.

    • Gokyo Lakes are oligotrophic lakes ranging from 4,700 meters to 5,000 meters (15,400 ft to 16,400 ft) above sea level. Also known as the world's highest freshwater lake system, there are altogether six Gokyo Lakes.

    • No, crossing the three passes does not involve technical climbing, however the trail is very steep and rugged. Proper knowledge and previous experience are a must to navigate through the passes safely.

    Price fromUS$2200(per person)
    We Offer Group Discount Price
      
    1 paxUS$2200
    2 paxUS$2000
    3 - 6 paxUS$1900
    7 - 20 paxUS$1800
    Book Now
    Download PDF
    Speak to an Expert
    upendra dawadi
    Mr. Upendra Dawadi+977 9851328431

    Add-on Trips

    Send Inquiry

    Our global team of experts is here to assist you.

    Need Travel Advice

    We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website.

    Privacy Policy