Trip Facts

• Destinations Covered: Renjo-La, Cho-La, Kongma-La, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes
• Duration: 18 Days / 17 Nights
• Difficulty Level: Challenging (for experienced trekkers)
• Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner during trek
• Activities: Trekking, Hiking, Cultural Exploration, Sightseeing
• Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu + Local Guesthouses/Teahouses in trekking regions
• Maximum Altitude: 5,555m at Kala Patthar
• Best Trekking Season: March – May (Spring), September – December (Autumn)
• Start/End Point: Kathmandu – Kathmandu

Overview

The Everest Three-Pass Trek is one of Nepal’s most adventurous and iconic trekking circuits. Designed for those who wish to go beyond the standard Everest Base Camp route, this trek combines three high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—into one unforgettable expedition.

Unlike traditional treks that focus on a single destination, this journey offers a 360-degree Himalayan experience. You will trek through diverse landscapes: lush forests filled with rhododendrons, yak pastures, glacial valleys, icy moraines, and rugged high passes. You’ll not only stand face-to-face with Mount Everest, but also witness jaw-dropping panoramas of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and Lhotse.

This trek is more than just about the mountains. It’s a cultural immersion into the Sherpa lifestyle. From bustling Namche Bazaar to spiritual Tengboche Monastery, and the remote villages of Chhukung, Dzongla, and Gokyo, every stop along the way connects you to Himalayan traditions.

By the time you complete this 18-day adventure, you will have walked one of the most challenging yet rewarding trekking circuits in the world.

Highlights of the Trek

• Cross three major Himalayan passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
• Visit the Everest Base Camp, the staging ground for Everest expeditions.
• Climb to Kala Patthar (5,555m) for the best close-up view of Mount Everest.
• Explore the sacred Gokyo Lakes and ascend Gokyo Ri for panoramic views.
• Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture at Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery.
• Traverse through the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Scenic mountain flights to and from Lukla, offering stunning aerial views.
• Experience both the popular EBC trail and the quiet, less-traveled high passes.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, attend a welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine while receiving a detailed trek briefing.

Day 2: Flight to Lukla (2,840m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m)

A breathtaking 35-minute flight to Lukla marks the beginning of your journey. From Lukla, trek through forests and along the Dudh Koshi River to reach Phakding.

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

Cross suspension bridges, pass Sherpa villages, and hike through pine forests. A steep ascent brings you to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trade hub of Khumbu.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche

Take a rest day for acclimatization. Hike to Everest View Hotel for stunning vistas of Everest and Ama Dablam. Visit local museums and markets in Namche.

Day 5: Namche to Tengboche (3,860m)

The trail descends through forests before climbing up to Tengboche, home to the region’s largest Buddhist monastery. Evening prayers here are a soulful experience.

Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)

Pass through Pangboche and alpine meadows before arriving in Dingboche, a beautiful valley with stone-walled fields.

Day 7: Acclimatization in Dingboche

Take short hikes to surrounding ridges for better acclimatization. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak.

Day 8: Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m)

A short trek to Chhukung, where you’ll prepare for your first high pass crossing.

Day 9: Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m) & Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)

A challenging climb over Kongma La rewards you with striking views of Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse before descending to Lobuche.

Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & Return to Gorak Shep (5,140m)

Walk along the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp, where climbers prepare for their expeditions. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

Day 11: Hike Kala Patthar (5,555m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)

An early morning hike to Kala Patthar gives you the best sunrise views over Everest. Descend and continue to Dzongla.

Day 12: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) & Trek to Thangnak (4,700m)

Another high pass day. Cross the icy Cho La and descend carefully to reach Thangnak.

Day 13: Thangnak to Gokyo (4,790m)

A short but scenic trek brings you to the turquoise waters of Gokyo Lakes.

Day 14: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Explore Gokyo Valley

Climb Gokyo Ri for a sweeping view of Cho Oyu, Everest, and the Ngozumpa Glacier. Spend the day exploring the lakes.

Day 15: Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m) & Trek to Lunden (4,350m)

The final high pass provides breathtaking Himalayan panoramas. Descend into the peaceful village of Lunden.

Day 16: Lunden to Namche Bazaar

Trek back to Namche Bazaar, retracing trails through alpine terrain.

Day 17: Namche to Lukla

Descend to Lukla where your trek concludes. Celebrate with your team.

Day 18: Flight to Kathmandu & Departure

Fly back to Kathmandu. Free day for shopping or cultural sightseeing before final departure.

Cost Includes

• Airport transfers (domestic & international)
• Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu)
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (2 nights, 3-star with breakfast)
• Teahouse/guesthouse accommodation during trek
• All meals during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Welcome and farewell dinners
• Experienced English-speaking guide & porter support
• Sagarmatha National Park entry fee & Khumbu municipality permit
• Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, and wages
• First-aid kit and purified drinking water
• Government taxes and service charges

Cost Excludes

• International flights to/from Nepal
• Nepal entry visa fees
• Meals in Kathmandu except welcome/farewell dinner
• Personal trekking gear & equipment
• Travel insurance (mandatory, covering high-altitude evacuation)
• Tips for guide and porters
• Extra nights’ accommodation due to delays or changes in schedule
• Bottled drinks, snacks, hot showers during trek

Packing List

• Thermal base layers and insulated down jacket
• Waterproof/windproof outerwear
• Trekking boots and sandals
• Sleeping bag (-15°C recommended)
• Trekking poles and gaiters
• Warm gloves, beanie, and socks
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm
• Refillable water bottle with purification tablets
• Personal medication and first-aid kit
• Portable power bank and headlamp

Everest Three-Pass Trek – 18 Days: Detailed FAQs

Overview of the Trek

What is the Everest Three-Pass Trek?
The Everest Three-Pass Trek is an adventurous 18-day journey through Nepal’s Khumbu region, covering three high mountain passes: Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m). This trek is designed for experienced and physically fit trekkers, offering panoramic Himalayan views, encounters with glaciers, and immersion into Sherpa culture.

How long is the trek and what is the distance?

• Duration: 18 days
• Distance: Around 140 km round trip from Lukla, including acclimatization and high passes.
• Daily trekking: Typically 6–8 hours per day on rugged and high-altitude terrain.

Difficulty and Preparation

What is the difficulty level?
This trek is extremely challenging due to high-altitude passes, steep ascents, icy trails, and unpredictable weather. It is suitable for trekkers with prior experience and high physical stamina.

Do I need prior trekking experience?
Yes. Previous experience at moderate altitudes (3,000–4,000 meters) is highly recommended, as the trek involves long, strenuous days at altitudes above 5,500 meters.

How should I prepare physically?

• Cardio: Hiking, jogging, stair climbing
• Strength training: Core, legs, and back
• Flexibility exercises: Stretching and yoga
• Hiking practice: Hills or local mountains
  Start training 3–4 months in advance for optimal readiness.

Best Time to Trek

When is the best season?

• Spring (March–May): Moderate temperatures, clear skies, blooming rhododendrons
• Autumn (September–November): Crisp skies, excellent visibility, stable trekking conditions
• Winter (December–February): Suitable for experienced trekkers; very cold, snow-covered trails
• Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

Permits and Insurance

What permits are required?

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – for trekking in the park
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit – mandatory for the Khumbu region

Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. Trekking insurance must cover:

• Accidents and injuries
• Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue)
• Altitude sickness and natural disasters
• Flight disruptions

Accommodation and Food

What type of accommodation is provided?

• Kathmandu: 3-star hotels with breakfast (upgrades available)
• Trekking route: Tea houses and lodges, usually twin-sharing. Private rooms available for an extra fee
• High-altitude areas: Basic washroom facilities; pee bags may be needed

What kind of food is available?

• Tea houses serve Nepali and Tibetan cuisine (dal-bhat, noodles, soups, potatoes, bread)
• Larger villages may offer international options like Italian or Chinese dishes

Trekking Essentials

What gear should I bring?

• Essentials: Sleeping bag (-10°C rated), trekking boots, warm clothes, waterproof jackets and pants, gloves, trekking poles, headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal first aid kit
• Optional: Camera, power bank, binoculars, solar charger

What is the maximum altitude reached?

• Kongma La Pass: 5,535m (18,159 ft)
• Renjo La Pass: 5,360m (17,585 ft)
• Cho La Pass: 5,420m (17,782 ft)

How do I prevent altitude sickness?

• Gradual ascent and acclimatization days included in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo
• Stay hydrated, rest when needed, and communicate symptoms to your guide
• Severe cases may require descent or helicopter evacuation

Connectivity and Accessibility

Are Wi-Fi and electricity available?

• Wi-Fi is available in most large tea houses (USD 5–10 per day)
• Electricity is limited at high-altitude lodges; solar chargers recommended

How do I get to the Everest region?

• Most trekkers fly from Kathmandu to Lukla
• Alternatives include driving to Phaplu or trekking via Jiri
• Lukla flight baggage limit: 15 kg (33 lbs); extra weight incurs a small fee

Customization and Safety

Can the trek itinerary be customized?

• Yes. Options include private guides, porters, extra acclimatization, or extensions to nearby regions

Is helicopter rescue available?

• Yes, in case of emergencies, but may incur extra charges

Is trekking solo possible?

• Solo trekking is possible but not recommended due to safety concerns. Guides and porters ensure safe navigation and support

Booking and Costs

How do I book the trek?

• Bookings are available via Awesome Holidays Nepal
• Payment can be made online or via bank transfer, with confirmation after payment

How much does the trek cost?

• Standard 18-day Everest Three-Pass Trek packages cost approximately $1,900–$2,100 per person, depending on accommodation, private services, and additional amenities

Additional Tips

• Train 3–4 months prior for endurance, strength, and flexibility
• Carry layers for warmth; weather is unpredictable
• Acclimatize gradually to avoid altitude sickness
• Solar chargers are highly recommended for electronics
• Be prepared for limited comfort in high-altitude tea houses