What permits are required for the Everest Three Passes Trek?

You’ll need: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit

What are the major highlights and side trips of this trek?

Some of the unforgettable highlights and side treks include: Everest Base Camp (5364m.) and Kala Patthar (5545m.) for epic Everest views Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri (5357m.) for stunning panoramas and turquoise lakes Remote Sherpa villages like Chhukung, Dzongla, and Thame Crossing three high passes, each offering breathtaking 360-degree mountain views Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual stop with stunning views of Ama Dablam This trek offers cultural insight, physical challenge, and Himalayan beauty unmatched by other routes in Nepal.

Everest Three Passes Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Duration

20 Days

Trip Type

Lodge Trek

Grade

Strenuous

Max Elevation

5545 m.

Transportation

Ktm-Lukla-Ktm by Flight

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Min. Group Size

1 or more

Everest Three Passes Trek (Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La pass)

The Everest Three Passes Trek in the Everest region is an iconic adventure that leads trekkers through three majestic high-altitude passes: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This thrilling route combines rugged trails with an immersive experience of Sherpa culture, making it the ultimate journey for Everest enthusiasts. The trek links the major valleys of the region, allowing for breathtaking panoramas and an intimate encounter with the Himalayan landscape. Trekkers can complete the route in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise, offering flexibility based on preference.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is a thrilling and challenging journey that rewards you with spectacular mountain views. Along the way, you’ll enjoy awe-inspiring sights of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and more. Ideal for adventurers seeking a demanding, high-altitude trek, this route offers an experience of a lifetime. While physically challenging, the trek’s unmatched views and breathtaking scenery make it well rewarding.

Crossing passes over 5,000 meters may sound scary to some people, but no technical climbing skills are required for this trek. With sound fitness and good physical health, this trek is accessible to many. Micro spikes are highly recommended and useful in extreme weather, adding an extra layer of safety to this already popular trekking route in Nepal.

Best Season to do Everest Three Passes trek:

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the ideal times for the Three Passes Trek, providing stable weather and clear views. Monsoon season (June to August) is also an option if it aligns with your schedule, though trails may be wetter. Winter treks are less advisable due to snowfall and potential trail blockages.

Day to Day Itinerary

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

Guest Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by our airport representative and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, you can take a stroll around and visit local shops. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) and trek to Phakding (2640m.)

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

2886 m.

After an early-morning breakfast, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and drive you to Kathmandu domestic airport terminal. Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m), which takes about 35 minutes. The flight offers upclose views of the Himalayas and picturesque landscapes of hills, farms, and rivers.

Upon arrival in Lukla, you'll begin a 3-hour trek to Phakding (2640m). Starting from Lukla, you'll gently climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi River. Mt. Nupla (5885m), visible in the distance, stands atop the Kongde Ridge. Descending a mountainside path, you'll merge into the route to Everest, enjoying views of a wonderful valley to your right and Mt. Kusum Kang (6367m) to the far end. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m.) takes approximately five hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3440 m.

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar involves crossing the Dudh Kosi river on a high suspension bridge and arriving at Monjo (2800m.) which is the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. The trail ascend gradually to Namche, as you catch the first glimpse of Mt Everest in addition to Mt. Kusum Kangaru, Thamserku, Kongde-Ri, and Tawoche peak. You will pass by few Buddhist monasteries along the way. Namche Bazaar is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and faces the Bhote Koshi to the South. Stay overnight at lodge.

A day for rest at Namche Bazaar (3440m.) for acclimatization.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3440 m.

A rest day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. You can walk towards Khumjung to visit a monastery or hike up to Syangboche (3800m) for outstanding views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawoche, and Kwangde. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3800m.) takes about four hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3800 m.

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3800m.) takes about four hours. The route turns west from Namche, and the trail is almost level as you head up the Bhote Koshi Valley, once a popular trading route into Tibet. After descending to the Bhote Koshi, the trail climbs steeply to Thame. From here, enjoy good views of the peaks of Teng Kangpoche and Kwangde. To the north lies the Nangpa La, the pass leading to Tibet. Thame Gompa overlooks the valley and is the site for the spring celebrations of the Mani Rimdu festival. You can also visit Khumbu Bijuli Power on the banks of the Bhote Koshi. Another worthwhile visit is to the Khare Monastery. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Thame to Lungden (4375m.) via Taranga takes about five hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

4375 m.

Trek from Thame to Lungden via Taranga takes about five hours. This day you walk around the villages, enjoying the views of the landscape, vegetation, and majestic mountains. Stay overnight at lodge.

Rest day at Lungden.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

4375 m.

Another day for rest and acclimatization. You can visit Nakpa Valley, which falls on the old trade route to Tibet. Another attraction is a hike to Darkyachhulung peak or visit Marlung, the sacred site of Warfield. You can alternatively trek to Lake Cho Relmo. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Lungden to Gokyo via Renjola Pass (5360m.) takes about six hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5360 m.

Trek from Lungden to Gokyo via Renjola Pass takes about six hours. On the way, observe local activities like yak herding and potato harvesting. The views of the mountains and the chance to experience wildlife add excitement to your trekking. Stay overnight at lodge.

Rest day at Gokyo and excursion in and around Gokyo valley.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

4750 m.

You can use your rest day to make a side trip to the Fifth Lake via Fourth Lake or trek from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri. Gokyo Ri looms above the village, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek/climb from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5357m.) and trek back to Thangna (4650m.) via Gokyo village takes about four and a half hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5340 m.

Trek/climb from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5357m.) and trek back to Thangna (4650m.) via Gokyo village takes about four and a half hours. Enjoy the views from Gokyo Ri before descending to Thangna, situated at the shore of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Thangna to Dzongla (4843m.) via Chola pass (5420m.) takes about 5 and half hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5420 m.

Trek from Thangna to Dzongla (4843m) via Chola pass (5420m) takes about 5 and half hours. Ascend slightly along the valley towards Chola pass, enjoying panoramic views of various mountains. The descend steeply to Dzongla. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Dzongla to Gorakshep (5180m.) takes about 6 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5180 m.

The trek first descend then ascend gently, providing excellent views of Ama Dablam, the Nuptse-Lhotse wall, and Everest. Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp. Now the trail winds through a rocky path and the Khumbu glacier with views of Nuptse, Lho-La and KhumbuTsein appear in full portrait. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp (5486m.) takes about 2-3 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5486 m.

Trek up the valley following the rocky moraine path; view icy glacial ponds and icebergs down below Khumbu glacier. You will spend some time at Base Camp and descend gradually down to Gorakshep. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and back to Lobuche via Gorakshep for breakfast.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5545 m.

Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and back to Gorakshep for breakfast. Then, you will descend down to Lobuche (4250m.) which takes about 6 hours. Enjoy the majestic panoramic view of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar before descending to Lobuche. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4900m.) via Kongmala La Pass (5535m.) takes about 8-9 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5535 m.

Today you will follow the trail towards Khumbu Glacier which you will have to cross before climbing to the summit of Kongma La. It is a steep ascent and from atop Kongma La you can witness Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Pumori etc. Stay overnight at lodge in Chhukung.

Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (3867m.) takes approximately four hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3867 m.

Trek from Chhukung to Tyangboche (3867 m) takes approximately four hours. Tyangboche offers stunning views of Ama Dablam along with lush green hills and river. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (3440m.) takes about 4 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3440 m.

Trek from Tyangboche to Namche Bazaar (3440m.) takes about 4 hours. The trail descends steeply but gently towards Phunki Tenga (3250m.), crossing the Dudh Koshi. Enjoy panoramic views of the Khumbu peaks before reaching Namche Bazaar. Stay overnight at lodge.

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886m.) takes about six hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

2886 m.

The last day of your trek leads from Namche Bazaar via Monjo to Lukla. The trek is pleasant, except for a few short uphill climbs and then stepping down to the Bhote-Koshi River crossing it three times. The last uphill climb of 45 minutes will bring you to Lukla for your overnight stay. Stay overnight in lodge.

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu takes approximately 35 minutes.

Food/Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

Lukla - Kathmandu flights are only operated during the morning hours, usually from 6 AM till 11AM. Fierce wind blows across the mountains in the late afternoon and evening making it impossible for planes to operate. You will enjoy this scenic plane ride one more time before getting back to Kathmandu.

Departure

Food/Meals

Breakfast

As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.

Price includes the following services

a) Kathmandu

All airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
2 night hotel accommodation with breakfast
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

b) Trekking

Trekking guide/s
One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) during the trek
Equipment: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, trekking poles etc.
Entry permit for Sagarmatha National Park
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
Local government entrance fee
Flight tickets from Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu
Meals, accommodation, insurance and equipment for the guides and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)

Service Excludes

Personal expenses (telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, or any alcoholic beverages)
Travel/Medical insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

Explore the route

Altitude & route map

Select a preview to open a large, zoomable view.

Everest Three Passes Trek Altitude Graph

Route Map

Frequently Asked Questions for Everest Three Passes Trek

The Everest Three Passes Trek is an adventurous and comprehensive circuit trek in the Everest region that crosses three high mountain passes: Kongma La (5535m.), Cho La (5420m.), and Renjo La (5360m.). It’s regarded as one of the best treks because it combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with remote trails, dramatic mountain scenery, and challenging high-altitude adventure. Along the way, trekkers visit famous spots like Namche Bazaar, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Kala Patthar, making it a full Himalayan experience that goes beyond the standard EBC trek.

This trek is physically demanding and best suited for experienced trekkers or fit individuals with previous high-altitude trekking experience. The three passes all lie above 5300 meters, and the trek involves long days, steep ascents/descents, and cold, harsh conditions. It requires good cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina. While no technical climbing is required, the terrain can be rough, icy, and challenging, especially at the passes.

The full circuit usually takes 17 to 20 days, depending on your pace, acclimatization days, and side trips. Some trekkers combine it with Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Ri, while others might skip parts or go clockwise/counter-clockwise. A flexible itinerary is key due to the demands of high-altitude trekking and potential weather delays.

Kongma La (5535m.): The highest and most remote of the three. It connects Lobuche to Chhukung, offering stunning views but involves a long, steep climb and a glacier crossing.

Cho La (5420m.): The most technically challenging pass, with steep icy sections. It links Dzongla to Gokyo and involves a glacier crossing, rock scrambling, and careful navigation.

Renjo La (5360m.): Often considered the most scenic pass, it connects Gokyo to Lungden and provides breathtaking views of Everest, Gokyo Lakes, and surrounding peaks.

Most trekkers go counter-clockwise (Kongma La → Cho La → Renjo La) for better acclimatization and slightly easier ascents. Clockwise (Renjo La first) involves rapid elevation gain, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness. The counter-clockwise route also aligns well with the natural acclimatization flow as you trek deeper into the region.

Yes, altitude sickness is a serious concern because the trek frequently goes above 5000 meters. Proper acclimatization is essential. Most itineraries include rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Trekkers should ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and be familiar with AMS symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Carrying medication such as Diamox and having travel insurance that covers helicopter evacuation is strongly advised.

While the trek can be done independently, hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended. The trail includes remote areas, poorly marked paths, and weather-sensitive passes. A guide offers safety, logistical support, and cultural insights. A porter can ease the physical burden by carrying your backpack, allowing you to focus on the trek and acclimatization.

You’ll need:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit

The best seasons are:

Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views.

Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, excellent visibility, and cool temperatures.

The trek starts in Lukla, which is reached by a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu. Lukla Airport is known for its short runway and weather-related delays, so having at least one buffer day is wise. Alternatively, you can start from Phaplu or Jiri, but this adds several days of trekking to reach Namche Bazaar.

You’ll stay in tea houses (lodges) that provide basic rooms (usually twin-sharing) with shared or attached bathrooms. At lower altitudes, amenities like Wi-Fi, hot showers, and charging stations are available, though often for a fee. Higher up, facilities become more basic.

Food includes dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, soups, pasta, eggs, and pancakes. Meals are high in carbs for energy, and it’s advised to eat local and vegetarian to avoid digestive issues.

Costs vary depending on whether you go independently or with a guide/agency. On average:

Independent trekker: $30–$50 per day

Guided trek (full package): $1,200–$2,500, including flights, permits, accommodation, meals, guide, and porter

Extra costs include gear rental, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging devices, and tipping guides/porters.

Some of the unforgettable highlights and side treks include:

Everest Base Camp (5364m.) and Kala Patthar (5545m.) for epic Everest views
Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri (5357m.) for stunning panoramas and turquoise lakes
Remote Sherpa villages like Chhukung, Dzongla, and Thame
Crossing three high passes, each offering breathtaking 360-degree mountain views
Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual stop with stunning views of Ama Dablam

This trek offers cultural insight, physical challenge, and Himalayan beauty unmatched by other routes in Nepal.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

Client Reviews

VASUTHAVAN MAHESWARY & TAMAN SELAYANG BARUMalaysia

EXCELLENT, WONDERFUL, SPECTACULAR

First and foremost, I would like to express my joyous experience on my visit to Nepal, and of course, most of it is due to Nepal Environmental Trekking, which gave us an excellent guide and an excellent trekking experience for my stay here.

Jun 30, 2022

David Giles, Paul Damon Wood, Richard Werner, Michael David Ritscher, Manauel LorenzoUnited States