Everest Three Passes Trek

16 Days

duration
Strenuous

difficulty

Our "Strenuous" trips are ideal for experienced trekkers and adventurers in good physical shape, featuring challenging terrain, long hikes, significant elevation, and remote locations. Wilderness skills are beneficial.
March, May, September, November

best time to visit in
5,545m

max. elevation
NBCT-42227

trip code

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lukla / Kathmandu
Teahouses and Lodges
Domestic flight
4-8 hrs
Teahouses

Overview
Itinerary
Includes
Equipment
FAQs
Reviews

Overview of Everest Three Passes Trek

The Everest Three Passes Trek is in the Everest Region of Nepal. Wondering what the three Passes are? They are Kongma La (5,535 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Renjo La (5,340 meters). To complete this trek, you must cross all three passes and make a short stop at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Taking these passes, you will trek through remote and picturesque areas in the Solu-Khumbu region of Nepal.

The journey towards the three-passes trek starts from Lukla, where you can get on a short flight. The trekking adventure will take you through vibrant Sherpa villages, lush forests, and rugged terrain. Throughout the trail, you will be amazed by the beautiful views of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, along with Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

In addition to that, you can also immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Sherpa. Visiting ancient monasteries in the journey also gives you a deep understanding of the Buddhist people. Although the trek can be quite challenging, the views and experience you get are unmatched. You can have a deep connection to the Himalayas with this trekking adventure.

Highlights of Everest 3 High Passes Trek

You will witness stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest along with Mount Lhotse and Makalu, especially from Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri.
Taking this trek, you will cross three challenging high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, which can be quite challenging.
Upon reaching to Everest Base Camp, you will be standing at the foot of the world's highest peak and witness the iconic Khumbu Icefall.
Witnessing stunning Gokyo Lake, which is popular for its turquoise water and surrounding glacial scenery.
From Kalapatthar, you can witness beautiful sunrise views of the beautiful Himalayas.
Considered a little difficult, it takes you through lush forests, serene meadows, rocky moraines, and icy passes.
You will experience the rich Sherpa culture and hospitality in vibrant mountain villages such as Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
Making a short visit to Tengboche Monastery offers you an insight into traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Spotting various Himalayan wildlife such as the Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and various bird species.

Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary

8 km (5 miles)

Trek Distance
3-4 hours

Trek Duration
2,610 meters (8,563 feet) at Phakding

Highest Altitude
Approximately 30 minutes from Kathmandu to Lukla

Flight Hours
BLD (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will begin our adventure with a scenic flight to Lukla, where we will land and prepare for our trek. After arriving in Lukla, we will embark on our first trekking day, heading towards Phakding. Throughout the trail, we will see stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The hike today will have a gradual descent, making it a manageable start. We will cross several suspension bridges and pass through charming Sherpa villages before reaching our destination.

Upon arrival in Phakding, we will settle into our lodgings and enjoy a well-deserved rest. The evening will be an opportunity to acclimate to the altitude and relax after our journey. We will also have time to explore the local area and prepare for the next day’s trek.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

Trek to Namche Bazaar

Trek Distance
5-6 hours

Trek Duration
3,440 meters (11,286 feet) at Namche Bazaar

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

Our trek today will take us from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, a bustling hub in the heart of the Khumbu region. Today’s trail will ascend through lush forests. We will go along the Dudh Koshi River. The trek offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. As we climb, we will cross several suspension bridges and pass through traditional Sherpa villages. We can experience the rich culture of the region.

After about 5 to 6 hours, we will reach to Namche Bazaar. We will then check into our lodge and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this important trading town. It is one of the most bustling towns we will visit on the trek, offering many shops and cafes. Although today can be tiring, the views we get from Namche Bazaar make it all worth it.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

Varies (optional hikes)

Trek Distance
2-3 hours (if hiking)

Trek Duration
3,440 meters (11,286 feet) at Namche Bazaar

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouse

Accomodations

We will spend today acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar to better prepare ourselves for the higher altitudes ahead. We can take a full day rest or even take a short hike to nearby viewpoints. We can opt to hike towards the Everest View Hotel or the Sherpa Museum. Both places offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

This short hike can even make us more prepared for the upcoming journey. As an alternative, we can visit the town’s market and try the various cuisines they offer. The market can also be the perfect place for you to buy souvenirs. Interacting with locals and experiencing their culture can also be quite an interesting part of today’s acclimatization. This rest day will ensure we are well-prepared for the trekking days ahead.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

10 km (6 miles)

Trek Distance
5-6 hours

Trek Duration
3,860 meters (12,664 feet) at Tengboche

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouse

Accomodations

We will set out from Namche Bazaar towards Tengboche, following a trail that offers stunning vistas of the Himalayas. The path will take us through dense forests of rhododendron and pine, with occasional views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. We will cross the Dudh Koshi River again and ascend gradually to our destination.

Tengboche offers you one of the most ancient monasteries, the Tengboche Monasteries. Visiting here, you can witness the culture and traditions of the Sherpa Buddhist people. The place also offers us with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and mountain ranges. Tengboche is the perfect place if you want to experience spirituality and cultural immersion.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

12 km (7.5 miles)

Trek Distance
5-6 hours

Trek Duration
4,410 meters (14,470 feet) at Dingboche

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

After having breakfast in the morning, we will start our 5th day journey towards Dingboche. Dingboche is a beautiful remote village nestled in the Imja Valley. The trek today includes continuous ascends. We will pass through the beautiful alpine landscape and cross several small streams. With frequent breaks and breathtaking views of the Himalayas giants, the trek provides us an opportunity to experience the changing scenery as we gain altitude.

Upon reaching Dingboche, we will settle into our lodge and take in the stunning surroundings. This village, located at a higher altitude, will provide a great base for acclimatization. It is the best place for preparing ourselves for the higher reaches of the trek. We will rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

Varies (optional hikes)

Trek Distance
2-3 hours (if hiking)

Trek Duration
4,410 meters (14,470 feet) at Dingboche

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

On the 6th day, we will dedicate today to acclimatizing in Dingboche to prepare for the higher altitudes ahead. Our acclimatization hike will take us to the nearby Nagarjun Hill or the ridge overlooking Dingboche, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Makalu. This hike will help our bodies adjust to the altitude and ensure we are well-prepared for the days of trekking ahead.

In the afternoon, we will return to Dingboche for some relaxation and exploration. We will have the opportunity to visit local shops, interact with the Sherpa community, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this serene village. This rest day is crucial for acclimatization and will help us adjust to the increasing altitude.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

6 km (3.7 miles)

Trek Distance
3-4 hours

Trek Duration
,730 meters (15,518 feet) at Chhukung

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will set out from Dingboche towards Chhukung, a small settlement located in the Imja Valley. The trek will be relatively short but offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. As we walk, we will cross the Imja River and follow a trail that gradually ascends through a barren yet strikingly beautiful landscape. Arriving to Chhukung, we will settle into our lodge and take in the dramatic surroundings. This village will provide a perfect vantage point for acclimatization and preparing for the challenging passes ahead.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

14 km (8.7 miles)

Trek Distance
7-8 hours

Trek Duration
5,535 meters (18,159 feet) at Kongma La Pass

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

Today, we will tackle one of the trek’s most challenging segments: crossing the Kongma La Pass, the highest pass. We will start early to make the most of the daylight and to allow ourselves plenty of time for the ascent. The pass, at an elevation of 5,535 meters (18,159 feet), offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

After crossing Kongma La, we will descend towards Lobuche. The trail will be steep at times, but the views of the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding mountains will make the effort worthwhile. Also considered to be the longest day of the overall journey, after reaching to Lobuche, we will check into our room and enjoy a well-deserved rest while taking in the majestic scenery.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

15 km (9.3 miles)

Trek Distance
8-9 hours

Trek Duration
5,364 meters (17,598 feet) at Everest Base Camp

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will embark on a memorable trek to Everest Base Camp today. Our journey will take us through rocky and moraine-filled terrain, with spectacular views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, we will have the opportunity to soak in the incredible atmosphere and take in views of the world’s highest peak. You will be surrounded by mountains all over. However, make sure you are not going to see the Everest peak from here.

After spending some time at base camp, we will retrace our steps back to Gorak Shep. The return trek will be manageable as we descend. This evening will be a great chance to reflect on our achievements and prepare for the final leg of our journey.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

12 km (7.5 miles)

Trek Distance
7-8 hours

Trek Duration
5,545 meters (18,192 feet) at Kala Patthar

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will rise early to climb Kala Patthar, renowned for its panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. The ascent to Kala Patthar is steep but rewarding, offering some of the best views of our trek. After taking in the stunning sunrise and views, we will descend back to Gorak Shep for a brief rest.

Following our descent, we will continue our trek towards Dzongla. The trail will lead us through a rugged landscape, gradually descending and then ascending again towards Dzongla. After the continuous hike, we will prepare ourself for another long pass which we have to tackle in tomorrow’s journey.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

13 km (8 miles)

Trek Distance
7-8 hours

Trek Duration
5,420 meters (17,782 feet) at Cho La Pass

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will wake up quite early in the morning to cross Cho La Pass. It is a high and also tough pass at an altitude of 5,420 meters (17,782 feet). We will climb in this step pass and then walk across a glaciated valley. The views you will receive are simply spectacular: towering peaks and a good, impressive Cho La Glacier.

This demanding section will test our endurance, but the views from the pass will make the effort worthwhile. Then, we will descend to Gokyo, visiting the serenity of Gokyo Valley through rugged landscapes. Reaching Gokyo, we will check into our lodge and spend some time resting and acclimatizing.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

Varies (optional exploration)

Trek Distance
4-5 hours (if climbing Gokyo Ri)

Trek Duration
5,357 meters (17,570 feet) at Gokyo Ri

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

Today, we will hike to Gokyo Ri, a peak that offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The ascent to Gokyo Ri is a rewarding climb, providing some of the most breathtaking vistas of the trek. We will start early to catch the sunrise and enjoy the clear, crisp views from the summit.

After descending from Gokyo Ri, we will spend the remainder of the day exploring the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. The series of glacial lakes offer stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks and are perfect for photography and relaxation. We will return to our lodge in Gokyo for a restful evening.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

17 km (10.5 miles)

Trek Distance
7-8 hours

Trek Duration
5,360 meters (17,585 feet) at Renjo La Pass

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will set out early to cross the Renjo La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet). The trek will involve a challenging ascent followed by a descent through rugged terrain. The pass offers magnificent views of Everest, Makalu, and other Himalayan peaks.

After crossing Renjo La, we will descend towards Marlung, a small village located in the Rolwaling Valley. The trail will lead us through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages. Upon reaching Marlung, we will reflect on our accomplishments and prepare for the journey back to Namche Bazaar.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

16 km (10 miles)

Trek Distance
6-7 hours

Trek Duration
3,440 meters (11,286 feet) at Namche Bazaar

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

We will trek from Marlung back to Namche Bazaar, retracing some of our previous steps. The trail will take us through a series of ascents and descents, offering beautiful views of the valleys and peaks we’ve encountered before. This trek will be a return journey through familiar landscapes, making it a more manageable and enjoyable experience.

Today’s trek can be relatively easy as we will make a trip while enjoying the beautiful views offered. This can be the best ending journey of the trek, where you will finally witness the close Himalayas for the last time. In Namche Bazaar, you can enjoy the local culture for the last time and buy souvenirs for your loved ones.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

19 km (11.8 miles)

Trek Distance
7-8 hours

Trek Duration
3,440 meters (11,286 feet) at Namche Bazaar

Highest Altitude
BLD

Meals
Teahouses

Accomodations

Our final trekking day will take us from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. The trail will involve descending through familiar terrain, with the final stretch offering a chance to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve completed. We will pass through traditional villages and scenic landscapes as we make our way back to Lukla.

Following the same route we took while ascending, the trek can be quite reminiscent as you can remember your first trekking journey. After hiking for about 8 hours, we will finally reach Luka and have a rest in our lodge. Here, we will have a trekking completion dinner together.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

2,860 meters (9,383 feet) at Lukla

Highest Altitude
Approximately 30 minutes from Lukla to Kathmandu

Flight Hours
(Breakfast)

Meals
3 star hotel

Accomodations

We will catch a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, ending our trekking adventure. The scenic flight will provide a final view of the Himalayas before landing in Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, we will transfer to your accommodation and have the rest of the day to relax, explore the city, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu. We will finally go our way apart from here. Have a safe travel back to your home country.

All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Accommodation: Hotels in cities and lodges during the trek.

Download Trip Itinerary and plan offline

All Airport Transportation in Kathmandu.
Flight Fair Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu.
Choice of meals (10 Breakfast, 10 Lunch, 10 Dinner.) (make this based on trip package itinerary date)
Choose hot beverages, such as tea, coffee, or ginger tea.
National Park Permit and Local Permit.
Mountain guide, Fluent English-speaking.
Emergency Helicopter Service Available.
Helicopter Service paid by clients.
A first aid kit will be available) on trek.
All government taxes and service charges.

Meals & Hotel in Kathmandu.
Deserts (cakes, bakes, and pies).
Any size of Pots Hot Drinks.
Bottled drinks (Mineral Water).
Boiled water for Drinking.
Electronic device recharge.
Hot shower during the trek.
Telephone, Laundry, Wi-Fi.
All Personal expenses.
Your Travel insurance.
Your Medical Insurance.
Tip for Guide and Porter.

Everest Three Passes Trek Trip Information

Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters / 18,159 feet)

Kongma La is the highest of the three passes. It is in between the villages of Chhukung and Lobuche in the Khumbu region. Trekking over Kongma La is tough because of its high altitude and steep trails. To reach the top of the pass, you have to pass a long climb and descent. It is the most challenging section of the entire journey. From the top of Kongma La, you will see amazing views of the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. The landscape includes rocky terrain, glaciers, and snow-covered mountains. To complete the pass, it is essential for you to have a proper acclimatization plan.

Cho La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)

Cho La connects the villages of Dzongla and Thagnak, which are part of the Gokyo Valley. It is the second pass of the Three Passes Trek. You have to walk on a glacier, making the trail slippery and dangerous. There is also a steep climb on both sides of the pass. This makes it a challenging but exciting adventure. At the top of Cho La, you will see panoramic views of the Everest region, including the towering peaks of Ama Dablam and Cholatse. The pass is surrounded by ice and snow, creating a dramatic landscape. The trail can be icy, especially in winter, so proper gear like crampons may be needed.

Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters / 17,585 feet)

Renjo La links the Gokyo Valley with the Bhote Koshi Valley. It is the last pass of the Three Passes Trek. The trek to Renjo La is less steep compared to the other two passes, but it is still strenuous due to the high altitude. With less crowd on the trail, you can enjoy the serene beauty more freely and immerse fully in the surrounding landscapes. Upon reaching the top, you will witness beautiful views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. Although less steep, the high altitude still poses a risk of altitude sickness. You need to be well-prepared and acclimatized.

Trekking towards the Everest Base Camp trek, you will undertake an exciting journey towards the Himalayas. Considered to be the most difficult trekking journey in the Everest Region, you will cross the three high-altitude passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. Also, with this trek, you will reach the base camp of Mount Everest while witnessing the beautiful Gokyo Valley. You will witness the beautiful views of towering peaks and glacial lakes throughout the journey. This trek can be a rewarding experience for you, which you can cherish for a lifetime.

Culturally, you will immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Sherpa people. Along the trail, you will encounter vibrant Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, where you will experience the warmth of local hospitality and the influence of Tibetan Buddhism. If you want to witness traditional Buddhist practices, you can visit one of the oldest and most ancient monasteries, the Tengboche Monastery. Taking this trek, you will better understand the local culture and spiritual heritage.

In terms of facilities, you will find that accommodations along the trek range from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. While amenities like running water and electricity may be limited, you will have access to essential facilities, including communal toilets. Some teahouses may offer hot showers and charging facilities for electronic devices, though availability can vary depending on the location and altitude. Despite these modest amenities, the warm hospitality of the local hosts and the spectacular surroundings will make your trek an unforgettable experience.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas. Taking this trail, you will have to face physically demanding terrain. Involving icy sections, steep ascends and descends, along with the unpredictability of the weather, is quite difficult. The three high passes, Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, over 5000 meters, are the major highlight and the major challenges to overcome. To complete this trek, you must have good acclimatization plans and better physical preparations.

Graded 8 out of 10, the Everest Three Passes Trek demands a high level of fitness and endurance. You will need to be prepared for long days of trekking, typically lasting 6-8 hours, with some days reaching high altitudes. The trek also requires good navigation skills. Another barrier for you can be language, as people in Nepal’s Himalayas are not familiar with English. Located at a high elevation, you can also have difficulty finding the best quality amenities. No matter what challenges you encounter, the overall trek experience you get can make your journey worthy.

The best time to take the Everest Three Passes Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons, specifically from late March to early May and from late September to early November. We recommend you avoid the monsoon season (June to August) and the winter months (December to February), as heavy snowfall, potential landslides, and extreme cold can make the trek more hazardous and difficult.

Post Monsoon:

During the spring, you will experience relatively stable weather conditions and clear skies, making it ideal for trekking. The temperatures are mild, and the trekking trails are usually free of heavy snow, which facilitates easier passage through the high passes. Additionally, you will witness the blooming of wildflowers, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. However, be prepared as you might encounter slight rainfall on the journey.

Pre Monsoon:

Another ideal season for trekking to Three Passes is autumn. Like spring, it offers excellent trekking conditions, with clear skies and stable weather. The temperatures are cooler than in spring, which makes trekking more comfortable. Snow and ice on the passes have usually melted or become less challenging, making the trek more manageable. However, you should be prepared for colder temperatures at higher altitudes.

Accommodation on the Everest Three Passes Trek primarily consists of teahouses and lodges, which offer basic but comfortable amenities. You will find that most teahouses provide communal rooms with simple bedding, and while electricity is available in some lodges, it is often limited to a few hours each day, typically powered by solar or a generator. Charging facilities for electronic devices may be available but often come with an additional fee.

Regarding water and toilet facilities, running water is not consistently available, particularly at higher altitudes, so you should be prepared for the use of bucket or bowl water in some places. Toilets are generally of the squat variety and are shared among guests. Some lodges may have more modern facilities, including Western-style toilets, but these are less common and often limited to lower altitudes. It’s advisable to carry personal water purification tablets and a portable toilet kit for added comfort and convenience.

During the Everest Three Passes Trek, you will find a variety of food options. You will primarily eat at teahouses and lodges along the trek, where the menu typically includes a range of local and international dishes. You can expect to find staple foods such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and a variety of soups. While vegetarian and some vegan options are usually available, choices may become more limited as you ascend higher. The quality and variety of food generally improve at lower altitudes, with simpler fare provided at higher camps.

For drinking water, you will need to purify it yourself, as clean, safe drinking water is not always readily available. Teahouses often provide boiled water, which you can use after ensuring it’s properly filtered or treated with purification tablets or a portable filter. As you reach higher altitudes, sources of water may be more scarce, and you may need to purchase bottled water, though this can be expensive and less environmentally friendly. Carrying your own water purification system is highly recommended to ensure safe hydration throughout the trek.

The Everest Three Passes Trek covers a significant distance from Everest Base Camp as it traverses multiple high-altitude passes and loops through the Khumbu region. Specifically, the distance between Everest Base Camp and the high passes on this trek involves the following approximate travel distances:

Everest Base Camp to Kongma La Pass: Around 20 km (12.4 miles) from Everest Base Camp to the Kongma La Pass via Lobuche.
Kongma La Pass to Cho La Pass: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) from Kongma La to Cho La Pass, passing through Dzongla.
Cho La Pass to Renjo La Pass: About 17 km (10.5 miles) from Cho La Pass to Renjo La Pass, with Gokyo as a key point on the route.
Renjo La Pass to Namche Bazaar: Roughly 16 km (10 miles) from Renjo La Pass to Namche Bazaar, with Marlung being an intermediate stop.

Overall, the trek covers approximately 120 km (75 miles) from Everest Base Camp to the end of the high passes trek. This distance may vary depending on the specific trekking route and any additional side trips you may take.

For the Everest Three Passes Trek, you will need to obtain specific permits to legally trek through the protected regions of Sagarmatha National Park and the Khumbu area. Here’s a detailed overview of the required permits:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

As the Three Passes trek trail passes within the Sagarmatha National Park, getting this permit is compulsory. This permit helps to protect and conserve the unique environment and biodiversity of the park. You can obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Permit at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the park entry points in Monjo or Phakding.

Cost: The permit typically costs USD 30 per person for foreign nationals. This fee may be subject to change, so it’s best to confirm the current rate before your trek.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit is required for trekking in the Khumbu region. This permit supports the local community and contributes to infrastructure and tourism development in the region. This permit can be obtained at the office of the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality in Namche Bazaar. You can get this permit at the same time as the Sagarmatha permit.

Cost: The permit generally costs USD 20 per person. As with other permits, it’s wise to check for any updates on the fee.

Necessary Documents for Permits

A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity from the date of entry into Nepal.
Typically, 2-4 passport-sized photos are required for each permit application.
Complete this form as required by the issuing authority.
If you are booking through a trekking agency, you may need to provide a letter or proof of booking.
Cash in US dollars or local currency will be used to cover the permit fees.

If you are trekking towards the Everest Three Passes Trek, it is important for you to get travel insurance. The insurance you get helps you protect yourself from unpredictable risks. This includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. As the Three Pass Trek involves high-elevation trekking and challenging conditions, it is important to protect yourself. You should ensure your insurance policy includes coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

Before you make a purchase for your insurance, you must carefully review it. The insurance you are getting should meet all your needs, including coverage for emergency medical treatment and repatriation. It is advisable to choose a plan that provides 24/7 emergency assistance and covers trekking at high altitudes. You should carry a copy of your insurance details and emergency contact numbers with you throughout the trek. This further ensures you are prepared for any unexpected situations.

FAQs For Everest Three Passes Trek

The 3 mountain pass Nepal is the highest passes you will cross in your trekking journey towards the Everest Region. Located within the Sagarmatha National Park, these three passes 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).

To complete the Everest Three Passes Trek, you generally require 15 to 21 days, depending on your preferences and pace. Booking with us, we offer you with a 16-day itinerary, which can be pretty enough days to enjoy the surrounding landscapes and snow-capped mountains.

The highest point of the Three Passes Trek is Kongma La, at 5,550 meters. It is then followed by Cho La, 5,420 meters, and Renjo La, 5,360 meters. Crossing all these passes can be quite challenging for you, so make sure you are prepared well.

Although hiring a guide is not compulsory, it is the most recommended thing for you to do. The guide provides you with navigation, and as they are trained well, they will help you in cases of emergencies, too. Confused about which agency to choose for the guide? Here we are.

To train for Three Passes Trek, you should participate in exercise prior to 4 to 5 months of your trek. It includes cardiovascular and strength-developing training. Also, being mentally prepared for the challenges before the journey will help a lot in the journey. Make sure you are fit and visit the doctor for your health checkup.

The Everest Three Passes trek is typically done in a clockwise direction. This route involves crossing the passes in the order of Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. This direction generally provides better acclimatization and more manageable altitude gains.

To manage altitude sickness on the Everest Three Passes Trek, the first and foremost thing you can do is to include proper acclimatization days on your itinerary. Also, take it slow and ascend gradually. Do not push your body. If the case gets worse, we recommend you to make a descent as soon as possible.

For the Everest Three Passes Trek, you should pack essential trekking gear, including a warm sleeping bag, insulated clothing layers, and a good quality down jacket for cold temperatures. Never forget to bring trekking poles, sturdy hiking boots, and a comfortable backpack, as well as personal items like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first aid kit.

Yes, it is safe to trek alone on the Everest Three Passes trek, but it is generally not suggested. As there are some challenges you have to encounter, traveling alone can be quite demotivating. You will have no one to talk to and no one around to help you during some emergencies, resulting in life-threatening situations.

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21 Days
6,119m

Everest Base Camp and Lobuche Peak Climbing Trek

17 Days
5,555m

Gokyo Lake to Everest Base Camp Trek

14 Days
5,360m/17,585ft (Renjo La Pass)

Everest Three Passes Trek

16 Days

Strenuous

March, May, September, November

5,545m

NBCT-42227

Overview of Everest Three Passes Trek

Highlights of Everest 3 High Passes Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary

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Everest Three Passes Trek Trip Information

Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters / 18,159 feet)

Cho La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)

Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters / 17,585 feet)

Post Monsoon:

Pre Monsoon:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Necessary Documents for Permits

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