| Trip code | |
| Package name | Everest Three Pass Trek |
| Duration | 21 |
| Max. elevation | 5545 m |
| Level | |
| Transportation | Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and teahouses during the trek |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 1,879 per person |
The Everest Three Pass Trek is a thrilling and challenging adventure that takes trekkers across three major high passes in the Everest region: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360m). This trek offers an unparalleled experience of the Himalayas, showcasing some of the most spectacular mountain views, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and many other towering peaks. The journey combines cultural immersion in Sherpa villages, stunning glacial landscapes, and a sense of accomplishment from crossing multiple high-altitude passes.
This trek usually starts in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic flight to Lukla, and then proceeds through iconic Sherpa settlements such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. It includes acclimatization days to ensure safety and readiness for the strenuous high passes. The total duration is around 18-20 days, ideal for fit and adventurous travelers looking for a less crowded and more demanding trek in the Everest region.
The best time to embark on the Everest Three Pass Trek is during the pre-monsoon season (March to May) and the post-monsoon season (late September to November). These periods provide the clearest skies, mild temperatures, and excellent mountain visibility, making the trek both safer and more enjoyable.
Food on the trail is typically a mix of local Nepalese dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), soups, and some western options like pasta and bread. Teahouses along the route offer basic but comfortable accommodation, usually with shared rooms and attached or common bathrooms. At higher altitudes, facilities become simpler but still adequate for a comfortable stay.
To undertake the trek, you will require permits including the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, and possibly local permits for specific regions. Special Trek & Expedition will assist you in securing all necessary permits to ensure a hassle-free trekking experience.
Choosing the right trekking company can make a huge difference in the success and enjoyment of a challenging expedition like the Everest Three Pass Trek. Special Trek & Expedition brings extensive experience and local expertise to every journey. Our team includes highly skilled Sherpa guides who are natives of the Himalayas and intimately familiar with every step of the trail—from the mud and stones to snow-covered passes.
Our guides are more than just leaders; they are your companions, mentors, and safety nets throughout the trek. They ensure the journey is not only safe but also rich in cultural insights and local knowledge. Our porters, likewise, are well-trained, respectful, and committed to making your trek comfortable by handling your heavy loads efficiently and responsibly.
Safety is paramount at Special Trek & Expedition. We emphasize proper acclimatization, provide detailed briefings, and maintain constant communication with the team to respond swiftly to any emergencies. Our itineraries are well-balanced to allow for rest and adjustment, maximizing your chances of a successful and rewarding trek.
Beyond the trek package itself, Special Trek & Expedition offers specialized Sherpa guide and porter booking services, providing flexibility for travelers who want to customize their adventure or join existing expeditions with trusted local support. Whether you seek a small group trek or a private expedition, you can count on us for personalized service, fair pricing, and unforgettable Himalayan experiences.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400m), a representative from Special Trek & Expedition will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can take time to rest or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, known for its lively atmosphere, shops, and cafes. In the evening, there will be a briefing session with your guide, where you’ll receive essential information about the trek, gear checks, and logistics. This is also a great opportunity to meet fellow trekkers and ask any final questions before the adventure begins.
Today is dedicated to cultural exploration and final trek preparations. After breakfast, a guided city tour takes you to Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square. These sacred and historical sites provide a fascinating insight into Nepalese spirituality and art. In the afternoon, your guide from Special Trek & Expedition will conduct a final gear check, ensuring you have everything necessary for the high-altitude trek. You can also purchase or rent any last-minute equipment from Thamel if needed. Rest well for the journey ahead.
An early morning scenic flight (approximately 30 minutes) to Lukla marks the start of your Himalayan journey. The flight offers breathtaking views of snowcapped peaks and dramatic landscapes. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, you'll meet the local porters and begin the trek to Phakding. The 3–4 hour trek is relatively gentle, passing through lush forests, Sherpa villages, and crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. Phakding, situated at 2,610 meters, offers a peaceful riverside setting and comfortable teahouses where you will spend your first night on the trail.
Today’s trail continues northward along the Dudh Koshi River, entering the Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. After registering permits, the path steepens with several suspension bridge crossings, including the famous Hillary Bridge. As you ascend through pine forests, the first glimpses of Mt. Everest may appear on clear days. After a demanding final climb, you arrive at Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the largest Sherpa town in the Khumbu region. Known for its vibrant energy, Namche offers bakeries, cafes, and gear shops. You'll rest here for the night, giving your body time to begin acclimatizing.
Acclimatization is key to high-altitude trekking success, and today you’ll stay in Namche to adjust to the thinner air. A popular acclimatization hike leads to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), offering stunning panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. On the way, you’ll pass the Syangboche airstrip and a small Sherpa village called Khumjung, home to the famous Hillary School. The rest of the day is free to explore Namche’s narrow alleyways, visit the Sherpa museum, or relax at a bakery with mountain views. This extra day greatly increases your chances of a successful trek.
Leaving Namche, the trail contours around the mountainside with breathtaking views of Everest, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. After a gentle descent to the Dudh Koshi River at Phunki Thenga, the path ascends steeply through rhododendron and pine forests to reach Tengboche. This village is famous for the Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu, which offers evening prayers that trekkers can attend. At 3,860 meters, Tengboche is a serene location surrounded by towering peaks and a great place to experience the spiritual culture of the Sherpa people.
Today’s trail descends through lush forests to Debuche, crossing a suspension bridge over the Imja Khola. Then, a gradual climb passes through Pangboche, the highest permanent Sherpa settlement. After crossing alpine meadows and stone walls, the landscape becomes more barren as you approach Dingboche. Sitting at 4,410 meters, Dingboche is an important acclimatization stop surrounded by spectacular views of Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You’ll notice a significant shift in vegetation and climate as the trek transitions into the alpine zone. After arrival, rest and hydrate to help your body adapt.
This second acclimatization day helps your body adapt to the increasing altitude before the challenging passes ahead. You can opt for a hike to Nagarjun Hill (around 5,100m), which provides excellent views of Makalu, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks. The steep climb serves as a good test of your conditioning and improves acclimatization. After returning to Dingboche, spend the rest of the day resting, reading, or enjoying the warm dining halls of local lodges. Your team at Special Trek & Expedition will continue monitoring your health and preparedness.
Today is a shorter trek to Chhukung, taking around 2-3 hours along a trail that gradually ascends through alpine landscapes with spectacular views of Island Peak and the Lhotse wall. After lunch in Chhukung (4,730m), those feeling strong can attempt a climb of Chhukung Ri (5,550m), a tough but rewarding side hike that offers panoramic views of Makalu, Ama Dablam, and the entire Imja valley. This optional climb is perfect for further acclimatization before crossing the first high pass. The evening is spent in Chhukung, preparing for the big day ahead.
An early start is necessary for crossing the formidable Kongma La Pass (5,535m), the first of the three passes. The trail ascends steeply through rugged terrain and glaciers, with occasional cairns guiding the way. The summit of the pass offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The descent to Lobuche is challenging, involving moraine crossings and rocky trails. Upon reaching Lobuche (4,940m), rest and recover from the demanding trek. Today is one of the toughest days of the journey, but also one of the most memorable.
Today’s trek begins with a steady ascent from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. The 6-7 hour hike traverses rocky terrain with stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding Himalayan giants like Nuptse and Pumori. After reaching Gorak Shep, you’ll drop your packs at the lodge and set out on a rewarding 1.5-hour trek to Everest Base Camp itself. Standing at 5,364 meters, Base Camp is the iconic destination for mountaineers worldwide, offering an unforgettable panorama of towering peaks and icy expanses. Return to Gorak Shep to rest.
An early start today takes you on a challenging but rewarding climb to Kala Patthar (5,545m), the highest point of the trek and one of the best vantage points to admire Mt. Everest’s southern face. The climb takes approximately 2-3 hours and requires good acclimatization and stamina. The panoramic sunrise views over Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse are absolutely spectacular and well worth the effort. After soaking in the views, you descend back to Gorak Shep for lunch and continue trekking down to Lobuche to spend the night, reflecting on the day’s incredible experience.
Leaving Lobuche behind, the trail descends slightly through a rugged alpine landscape, dotted with small shrines and mani walls, as you head toward Dzongla. The 3-4 hour trek is comparatively shorter but physically demanding due to the rocky, uneven path and high altitude. Dzongla sits at 4,830 meters and serves as an important base before crossing the second pass. The village is a quiet mountain settlement with basic tea houses that offer a welcoming atmosphere. This moderate day helps you recover energy and prepare for the upcoming crossing of the Cho La Pass.
Today’s journey is one of the most dramatic and challenging parts of the trek, involving a crossing of the Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. The trail climbs steeply from Dzongla, navigating glacier moraines and rocky terrain, demanding both physical fitness and concentration. Once over the pass, you descend toward the stunning Gokyo Valley, known for its serene turquoise lakes and the village of Gokyo. The 7-8 hour trek rewards trekkers with incredible alpine vistas, including views of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu. Upon arrival, enjoy the peaceful ambiance and rest in the village’s cozy lodges.
A well-earned rest day allows your body to acclimatize further while exploring the remarkable surroundings. The highlight is a morning hike to Gokyo Ri, a nearby peak at 5,357 meters offering arguably the best 360-degree panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This relatively short but steep climb takes about 2-3 hours. Afterward, explore the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes, pristine high-altitude glacial lakes shimmering in vivid shades of turquoise. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing in Gokyo’s charming village or visiting local monasteries, absorbing the tranquility of the Himalayas.
Leaving Gokyo behind, today’s trek crosses the third and final high pass—Renjo La at 5,360 meters. The ascent is steep but rewarding, with outstanding views of Everest and the surrounding peaks from the summit. After the pass, you descend through beautiful pine forests and terraced fields toward Lumde, a peaceful village at 3,910 meters. The 6-7 hour trek is physically demanding but offers a varied landscape that transitions from alpine to lush forest. Lumde’s warm teahouses provide comfort and a chance to rest before the final stages of your trek.
Today, you retrace part of the trail back to Namche Bazaar, descending through rhododendron forests and crossing the Dudh Koshi River multiple times. The 6-7 hour trek includes some uphill sections but is mostly downhill, allowing your legs to recover. Passing through Sherpa villages and small settlements, you’ll enjoy familiar sights and the vibrant atmosphere of Namche Bazaar once again. This is a good chance to revisit local shops, relax in cozy cafes, and savor a warm meal in preparation for the final leg to Lukla.
The last day on the trail brings a joyful descent to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Trekking for 6-7 hours, you’ll cross forests, suspension bridges, and small villages one last time while reflecting on your incredible journey. Lukla’s bustling airstrip marks the end of the trek, and you’ll have time to celebrate with your trekking team and share stories. The atmosphere is lively as trekkers and porters mingle, and you can shop for souvenirs before preparing for the return flight to Kathmandu.
A scenic early morning flight takes you from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys, a perfect farewell to the mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can enjoy a relaxing day. This is the ideal time to rest, enjoy a hot shower, and explore more of the city’s cultural offerings. In the evening, Special Trek & Expedition hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your successful trek and share memories with fellow trekkers and guides.
After breakfast, your representative from Special Trek & Expedition will assist with your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Everest Three Pass Trek, having experienced some of the world’s most spectacular mountain scenery, Sherpa culture, and personal achievement. Safe travels and Namaste!