Overview
The Everest Three Passes Trek is the ultimate adventure in the Khumbu region, designed for experienced trekkers seeking the complete Everest experience. This challenging circuit crosses three high-altitude passes - Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) - while visiting Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes.
Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp Trek which follows an "in-and-out" route, the Three Passes Trek creates a complete circuit through four major valleys: Imja Khola, Khumbu, Gokyo, and Bhote Koshi. This allows trekkers to experience the full geographical diversity of the Sagarmatha National Park, from lush rhododendron forests to barren glacial moraines and challenging glacier crossings.
Each pass offers unique perspectives: Kongma La provides views of Makalu and Lhotse, Cho La features a thrilling glacier traverse between Cholatse and Lobuche peaks, and Renjo La rewards with the most spectacular panorama of Everest reflected in the turquoise Gokyo Lakes. This trek is a true test of endurance and mental resilience, but the rewards are unmatched - a lifetime of memories standing atop the world's highest mountain passes.
Trek Highlights
Best Time to Trek
Spring (Mar - May)
Warmer temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and stable weather. Pass conditions are good but some snow may remain on Cho La glacier.
ExcellentAutumn (Sep - Nov)
The most reliable season with crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and excellent pass conditions. Perfect for photography and the best mountain views.
Best SeasonDay-by-Day Itinerary
Early morning departure from your hotel for the scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport). This 35-minute flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan range, including Langtang, Gauri Shankar, and Everest on clear days. Upon landing at Lukla's famous hillside airstrip, you'll meet your trekking crew and porters. After organizing gear, begin the gentle descent to Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through small Sherpa settlements. This short trek helps with initial acclimatization while introducing you to the beauty of the Khumbu region. Overnight in Phakding's comfortable teahouse.
What's Included
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers in private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star with breakfast)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Best available teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Assistant guide for groups of 4 or more (essential for pass safety)
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20kg per person)
- Round-trip flights Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit (TIMS card)
- All ground transportation as per itinerary
- First aid medical kit including pulse oximeter and portable oxygen
- Sleeping bag and down jacket for high altitude (can be returned after trek)
- Duffle bag for porter to carry your belongings
- Trekking map of Everest Three Passes region
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Emergency evacuation arrangement assistance (cost covered by insurance)
- Crampons and microspikes for glacier crossings (as needed)
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee ($30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days - available on arrival)
- Travel insurance (mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,600m & helicopter evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome dinner and breakfasts)
- Bottled/mineral water during trek (purification tablets provided)
- Hot showers and battery charging at lodges ($3-6 per use)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters (recommended)
- Emergency evacuation/helicopter rescue costs (covered by insurance)
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather, flight delays, political unrest)
Important Information
- • Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,600m including glacier crossings and helicopter evacuation.
- • This is a very strenuous trek requiring excellent physical fitness and preferably previous high-altitude experience.
- • Pass conditions vary by season - crampons/microspikes provided for glacier sections on Cho La.
- • We recommend 3-6 months of physical preparation including cardio, strength training, and practice hikes with a weighted pack.
Photo Gallery
Trail to Kongma La
Everest from Kala Patthar
Gokyo Lakes from Renjo La
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Three Passes Trek compared to EBC?
The Three Passes Trek is significantly more difficult than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek. It requires crossing three passes above 5,300m, involves glacier traverses, and spends more days at extreme altitude. Good physical fitness, previous trekking experience, and proper acclimatization are essential.
Do I need technical climbing experience?
No technical climbing experience is required, but you should be comfortable walking on snow and ice. The Cho La Pass involves a glacier crossing where we provide crampons or microspikes as needed. Our experienced guides will assist and ensure safety throughout.
What is the success rate for completing all three passes?
With proper acclimatization and good weather, most well-prepared trekkers complete all three passes. The key is following the itinerary, listening to your guide, and not pushing too hard. Our acclimatization schedule (days at Namche, Dingboche, and Chhukhung) maximizes your chances of success.
Which pass is the most challenging?
Kongma La (5,535m) is generally considered the most challenging due to its altitude and rocky terrain. Cho La is technically demanding due to the glacier crossing. Renjo La is often described as the most scenic but less technically difficult. Each presents unique challenges.
Can we see Everest from all three passes?
Yes! Each pass offers unique perspectives of Everest and the surrounding peaks. Renjo La provides the classic view of Everest reflected in Gokyo Lakes. Kongma La offers views of Makalu and Lhotse. Cho La has stunning views of Cholatse and Ama Dablam.