Introduction to Everest Three High Pass Trek
The Everest Three Pass Trek is an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Everest region, known for its combination of three high-altitude passes: Renjo La Pass (5,465 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m/18,159 ft). This trek is one of the most challenging high-altitude trekking routes in Nepal, requiring a high level of fitness due to strenuous ascents and long days that can stretch up to nine hours. The Everest Three Pass Trek not only covers these iconic passes but also includes the must-visit highlights of the Khumbu region such as Everest Base Camp, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and the stunning Gokyo Lake.
The Everest Three Pass Trek is an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Everest region, known for its combination of three high-altitude passes: Renjo La Pass (5,465 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m/18,159 ft). This trek is one of the most challenging high-altitude trekking routes in Nepal, requiring a high level of fitness due to strenuous ascents and long days that can stretch up to nine hours. The Everest Three Pass Trek not only covers these iconic passes but also includes the must-visit highlights of the Khumbu region such as Everest Base Camp, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and the stunning Gokyo Lake.
Starting and ending in Lukla, trekkers can choose between clockwise and anti-clockwise routes, both offering the same adventurous terrain and breathtaking panoramic views. The Everest Three Pass Trek is the ultimate adventure trekking route for those seeking an in-depth exploration of the Everest region.
Expect unmatched views from Renjo La Pass (5,465 m), where the panorama of Mount Everest surpasses even the famed views from Kalapatthar. This vantage point also provides sweeping sights of the pristine Gokyo Lake. Meanwhile, the Cho La Pass (5,420 m/17,782 ft), nestled between Lobuche (6,135 m/20,127 ft) and Cholatse (6,443 m), challenges trekkers with its steep, icy ascent but rewards them with striking vistas of Ama Dablam.
The Kongma La Pass (5,535 m/18,159 ft) presents a unique challenge, described as a precarious climb through loose stones, traversing glaciers and glacial-fed rivers. The view from the summit, where Lhotse and Makalu dominate the skyline, is an unforgettable moment, accentuated by the contrasting turquoise lakes below.
In addition to conquering these three high passes, trekkers visit Kalapatthar, known as the Everest View Point, and make their way to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp, iconic destinations for any trekker familiar with the history and grandeur of Mount Everest.
Other key highlights include Tengboche Monastery, the highest in the Khumbu Region, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater lakes in Nepal. For those wishing to experience the splendor of the Everest region without the demands of trekking, an Everest base camp Helicopter tour offers an unparalleled way to witness these majestic locations.
Everest Three High Pass Trek Highlights
Why Book With Magical Nepal
Everest Three Pass Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Kathmandu – 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
We will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel where we will brief you on your upcoming trek. Feel free to explore the surrounding area today or catch up on your sleep before your early morning flight.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
Phakding – 2,651 m / 8,697 ft
Wake up early for an amazing mountain-filled flight into one of the highest airports in the world! After meeting your local crew and being awed by the airstrip you just landed on, set off on a trail that takes you past a monastery, over a suspension bridge, and into the heartland of the Sherpa people.
We stop for the first night at Phakding, about a 3 hours hike from Lukla.

Phakding
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar – 3,440 m / 11,286 ft
After breakfast start trekking with both ascents and descents to reach the market town of Namche Bazaar. The trail takes us to the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park, over some more suspension bridges, and through rhododendron forests.
Tonight, we sleep in the biggest Sherpa town in the region – bustling with trekkers and climbers and locals going about their business.

Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Namche – 3,700 m / 12,139 ft
Today is a day to let the body acclimatize as we have risen quickly to this altitude. The best way to acclimatize is to be active. Either be exploring Namche or better still, taking a walk in the neighborhood. Head for the Everest View Hotel for your morning coffee! You might come across people who have helicoptered in for breakfast with a view! And what a view it is – majestic Mt. Everest as the name suggests.
You might want to continue on to Khumjung village, home to Khunde Hospital and Khumjung School. Both were built in the 1960s by Sir Edmund Hillary. Here you also find Khumjung Monastery which dates back hundreds of years although was reconstructed after the 2015 earthquake. Today, as in the past, it is the center of Sherpa’s religion and culture. Allegedly there is a Yeti scalp inside the monastery!
Finally, stock up on any snacks you might want to take with you – the last shopping opportunity of the trek!
Day 5: Namche to Tengboche
Tengboche – 3,956 m / 12,979 ft
Tengboche village is home to Tengboche monastery, which boasts some of the most spectacular views of Everest and Lhotse! The route heads out across the Dudh Koshi River and through thick forests which gradually thin out as you cross the tree line. As this is a Buddhist monastery there are stupas and mani (prayer) walls along the way.
There is an opportunity to attend prayers with the monks as well as take in the astounding views before retiring for the night in the village.

Tengboche
Day 6: Tengboche to Dingboche
Dingboche – 4,380 m / 14,370 ft
The trail is rugged and there are few trees on this windy trail between Tengboche and Dingboche villages. With Ama Dablam towering above, the trail enters the Imja Valley where it descends to the Lobuche River before rising steeply up to Dingboche.
This lovely village has fields surrounded by stone walls to protect the high-altitude crops from grazing animals and the wind. And quite a few lodges!

Dingboche
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Dingboche – 4,380 m / 14,370 ft
Another acclimatization day to aid with the rise in altitude and once again we suggest you keep active! What better way to spend the time than by hiking to a viewpoint at Nagarjune Hill (5,100m) – a round trip of around 4 to 5 hours. The views are, naturally, worth the effort! Periche Valley lies below and above lies Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Lobuche East and Lobuche West, among others.
Day 8: Dingboche to Lobuche via Khong Ma La Pass
Lobuche – 4,938 m / 16,200 ft
It’s a long day for sure, but a memorable and adventurous one too. The trail starts steeply to climb out of the valley to Dugla, located at the end of the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier then onto Chukpo Lari. Here we find memorials to climbers who have died on Everest – placed here in memory with a panorama of beloved mountains on the Nepal-Tibet border.
Today we cross the challenging Kongma La Pass (5, 545m) with views of many peaks such as Lobuche, Mehra, the south face of Nuptse, and many others which your guide will be happy to point out to you. The high altitude crossing the pass is the reason we take acclimatization days beforehand.

Lobuche
Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to Kalapatthar)
Gorakshep – 5160 m / 16929 ft
The trail from Lobuche rises slowly and over a period of 3 hours to Gorakshep. After checking into the lodge at Gorakshep and having lunch, we set off to hike to Kala Patthar, otherwise known as the Everest viewpoint.
Although Everest Base Camp is a very popular destination – and one we will explore the following day – Kala Patthar gets you closer to Everest than you can ever be without actually climbing the great mountain! Kala Patthar is a black rock (hence its name) with astounding views which are hard to comprehend until you are there.
After this spectacular adventure, return to Gorakshep for the night.

Gorakshep
Day 10: Gorakshep to Dzongla (Morning hike to EBC)
Dzongla – 4,830m / 15,846 ft
On leaving Gorakshep in the early morning we hike along the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp. This iconic location is actually different from the one climbing expeditions use. But we can see their colourful tents nearby – but far enough away that trekkers do not disturb them in their arduous preparations.
Returning to Gorakshep for breakfast we then set out for Dzongla where we stay overnight.

Everest Base Camp
Day 11: Dzongla to Gokyo via Cho La Pass
Gokyo – 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Another early start as we head towards the Cho La Pass with its glacier and stunning views. The trail starts off easy enough before a steady ascent. But the views of Ama Dablam, among other mountains, rivers, and glaciers are simply at their best. The terrain of loose rocks makes the going slow until you reach the start of the glacier. Crampons are really required here (buy or rent in Thamel, Kathmandu before you start your trek). In the distance that turquoise lake comes back into view.
Again the elevation increases as we climb up the pass. At the top, under the fluttering prayer flags, take a bit of a rest and gather some great photos!
Coming down over the pass head for the village of Thagnak for lunch before crossing another glacier and onwards to Gokyo where we stay overnight.

Gokyo
Day 12: Acclimatization day
Gokyo – 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
We take another acclimatization day here at Gokyo – an opportunity to explore this village and the surrounding area.
Day 13: Gokyo Valley to Marlung via Renjo La Pass
Marlung – 4,210 m / 13,812 ft
Heading off early we follow the peaks of Everest, Cholatse, Lhotse, and more down some stone steps and on through a narrow valley, passing Renjo Lake and walking alongside Dudh Pokhari (lake).
The trail over the Renjo La Pass takes in views of the third Gokyo Lake and Gokyo village along with Ngozumpa Glacier. And of Mount Everest is there in all its glory! The lakes of Relama Tsho and Renjo are seen on the way too as you make your way down to Marlung situated on the bank of the Bhote Koshi River.

Marlung
Day 14: Marlung to Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar – 3,438 m / 11,279 ft
Today the end of the trek is in sight, so enjoy the stunning views while you can. Descend into Thame village and cross the Bhote Koshi River before heading on downwards and crossing a couple of bridges to reach Thame. The village has its own gompa (monastery) situated on a hill above it. The trail continues to descend until you reach Namche Bazaar.
Day 15: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Lukla – 2,860 m / 9,383 ft
Today we follow the Dudh Koshi River to Lukla where we overnighted waiting for the flight back to Kathmandu.

Lukla
Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)
Kathmandu
Once again the flight is one you will not forget! Mountains and farmland lie all around until finally, we reach the city of Kathmandu. We will escort you to your hotel and give you the tips you want on how to spend the rest of your day.
Day 17: Final Departure
We will ensure you reach the airport on time for your onward flight. If you are not leaving the country, do ask us about other adventures we can arrange for you.
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Includes
Veg
Wide variety of Vegeterian food is available on the trek
Vegan
Wide variety of Vegan food is available on the trek
Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek
Items | Details | Quantity |
---|---|---|
Underwear | Underwear Breathable synthetic | 3 |
Socks | Wool BYO | 3 |
Bra | Sports BYO | |
Base layers – Pants | Merino wool BYO | 1 |
Trekking shirt | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase it in Kathmandu | 2 |
Rain pants | Synthetic lightweight Frogg Toggs are excellent | 1 |
Trekking pants | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase in Ktm | 2 |
Hiking Shoes/Boots | BYO Salmon Quest 4D or Xultra 3 or 4 | 1 |
Camp shoes | Down booties BYO or purchase in Ktm | 1 |
Gloves | One pair of thin merino wool. 2nd pair thick insulated | 2 |
Hat | Sun hat or peak cap with neck protection. BYO | 1 |
Down Jacket | BYO | 1 |
Wind Breaker | BYO | 1 |
Note: Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu, while all other trekking equipment can be easily purchased. We at Magical Nepal will assist you in getting all your essentials sorted, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight
Due to recent government regulations, there are no direct flights from Kathmandu to Ramechap. As a result, we must undertake a six-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechap. Since there are no good hotels in the area, we will need to depart at 1:00 AM to catch our flight to Lukla from Ramechap.
Read Before your book Everest Three Pass Trek
To help you determine if the Everest Three Pass Trek is right for you, we’ve provided detailed information on key aspects such as flight details, trek difficulty, and the best times to visit. Each section also includes a video explanation to guide you in planning your trip smoothly.
If you’re still unsure whether this trek is the perfect choice for you, feel free to reach out to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours to answer any additional questions.
During the Everest Three High Pass Trek, accommodation is provided primarily at teahouses and lodges. These accommodations are basic but sufficient for trekkers, offering a warm place to rest after long days of trekking. Below is a detailed overview of the facilities available:
Heating: Dining areas are heated (usually with a yak-dung stove) at higher altitudes, but rooms generally do not have heating.
Room Types:
- Most teahouses provide twin-sharing rooms, equipped with two single beds, a mattress, pillow, and blanket.
- At lower altitudes (e.g., Lukla, Namche Bazaar), some teahouses offer private rooms with attached bathrooms and better amenities.
- At higher altitudes (e.g., Lobuche, Gorakshep, Dzongla), rooms are more basic, and attached bathrooms are rarely available.
Bedding:
- Blankets are provided, but they may not be sufficient in colder months. Trekkers are advised to carry their own sleeping bags (rated for -10°C to -20°C) for additional warmth.
- Beds are usually made of wood with a foam mattress, and teahouses at lower altitudes may provide thicker bedding.
Bathroom Facilities:
- Bathrooms are usually shared and equipped with squat or Western-style toilets.
- At higher altitudes, teahouses may charge extra for hot showers (solar or gas-heated).
- In some remote locations, only bucket showers or cold water may be available.
Modern Amenities:
- Electricity: Most teahouses provide electricity for charging devices, though this may come with an additional fee. Power is often solar-powered, so availability can be limited.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available in most teahouses at lower altitudes but becomes less reliable and more expensive as you ascend.
Note:
- Accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis
- The Private Room is available at an additional charge during checkout.
Meals are an essential part of the trek, and teahouses provide a variety of options to keep trekkers energized. Below are details about the food offerings:
Porridge
Tibetan bread
Eggs
Pancakes
Muesli
Tea
Coffee
Dal Bhat
Rice, lentils & veggies
Momo
Tibetan dumplings
Thukpa
Noodle soup
Chowmein
With egg or vegetables
Fried Rice
With egg or vegetables
Spaghetti / Macaroni
With tomato sauce, cheese, vegetables
Potato Dishes
Boiled, fried, mashed, or roasted potatoes – often with cheese or garlic
Soups
Garlic (altitude remedy), tomato, vegetable, mushroom, or lentil
Pizza
Veg, cheese, or mixed (availability depends on the village)
Quality and Comfort
- Cleanliness: Teahouses are generally clean but basic, and trekkers are encouraged to carry a small towel and personal toiletries.
- Comfort Levels: Accommodation quality decreases with altitude. While teahouses at lower elevations like Namche Bazaar and Lukla are relatively modern, those at higher altitudes are more basic due to logistical challenges.
- Heating: Rooms generally lack heating, so trekkers should be prepared for cold nights by bringing adequate clothing and sleeping bags.
Dietary Considerations:
- Vegetarian meals are widely available and recommended at higher altitudes to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Trekkers with special dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, vegan) should inform teahouses in advance where possible, although options may be limited in remote areas.
- Stick to cooked, hot foods
- Avoid meat at higher elevations
- Dal Bhat is often the safest and most filling option
- Drink only purified water
- Temperature: Mild, ranging from 10–20°C during the day at lower altitudes
- Visibility: Generally clear skies in the mornings, occasional afternoon clouds
- Trail Conditions: Stable and dry, ideal for crossing high passes
- Nature Highlights: Blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers
- Crowds: Moderate; busier around Everest Base Camp but quieter on the passes
- Ideal For: Trekkers seeking reliable weather and blooming landscapes without extreme cold
- Weather: Stable and dry, with excellent mountain views and pleasant trekking conditions
- Temperature: Comfortable, around 15–22°C at lower elevations
- Trail Conditions: Best overall, especially for crossing Cho La, Renjo La, and Kongma La
- Festivals: Coincides with Dashain and Tihar, adding cultural value in villages
- Crowds: Highest number of trekkers, especially near popular sections
- Ideal For: Those wanting the best weather and views, and don’t mind company on the trail
- Trail Conditions: Snow-covered and icy, especially on high passes
- Temperature: Freezing at higher elevations; can drop below -15°C at night
- Visibility: Crisp views due to clear skies and dry air
- Crowds: Very low traffic; peaceful but more challenging
- Ideal For: Experienced trekkers prepared for cold and isolation with proper gear
- Weather: Heavy rainfall and cloud cover, especially in lower elevations
- Trail Conditions: Slippery, muddy, and risky for high pass crossings
- Scenery: Lush and green, with vibrant flora but poor mountain views
- Visibility: Limited, with clouds often blocking views
- Crowds: Minimal trekkers on the trail
- Ideal For: Hardcore adventurers or those seeking solitude who can accept flight delays, leeches, and unpredictable conditions
When planning your Everest Three Passes Trek, timing can make or break your adventure. The optimal times for this high-altitude journey are during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. Here’s why these times are ideal for an unforgettable experience in the Everest region.
Spring: March to May
Spring is a magical time for trekking in Nepal, and the Everest Three Passes Trek is no exception. During these months, you’ll experience:
Pros:
Comfortable Temperatures: Daytime temperatures are mild, giving you the perfect mix of warmth and cool mountain breezes. It’s not too hot at lower altitudes and pleasantly brisk at higher elevations.
Vibrant Natural Beauty: Picture yourself walking through trails lined with blooming rhododendrons, adding brilliant colors to your route. This season offers a visual treat that makes every step even more rewarding.
Clear Views Early in the Season: In March and early April, the skies are typically clear, giving you picture-perfect views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu from iconic spots like Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Kongma La Pass.
Cons:
Crowds Increase by May: The later you go, the more trekkers you’ll find on the trail. Popular stops like Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes can get busier as spring progresses.
Warm Weather Brings Challenges: Late spring can mean melting snow and potentially trickier paths over some passes.
Weather Expectations:
During the day, expect temperatures between 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes. At higher passes like Kongma La, night temperatures can drop to -10°C or even lower.
Clear skies with occasional cloud cover create perfect conditions for those iconic Everest region photos.
Autumn: September to November
If you want ideal weather and unforgettable views, autumn is the season to plan your Everest Three Passes Trek. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Pros:
Stable and Predictable Weather: The post-monsoon season is known for clear, stable weather. You’ll trek under deep blue skies and enjoy some of the best views Nepal has to offer.
Breathtaking Views: This is the time when the mountain peaks come alive, almost glowing against the crisp sky. Imagine standing on Cho La Pass with panoramic vistas of Ama Dablam and Everest that make the challenging climb worthwhile.
Great Trekking Conditions: The trails are generally well-maintained after the monsoon rains, so you can expect good footing and fewer surprises along the way.
Cons:
It’s Peak Season: Autumn is prime trekking time, so you’ll have more company on the trail and may need to book teahouses in advance.
Cold Nights: While days are pleasant, nights at higher altitudes, especially at the Renjo La Pass (5,465 m) and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m/18,159 ft), can get extremely cold, dipping below -15°C.
Weather Expectations:
During the day, temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C at lower altitudes. Nights at higher elevations can be freezing, so pack accordingly.
Skies remain clear and dry, especially in October, making this month ideal for capturing those postcard-perfect shots.
Other Seasons: What to Know
Monsoon Season (June to August): Monsoon isn’t the best time for the Everest Three Passes Trek. Heavy rainfall can lead to slippery trails and cloud-covered peaks, obscuring those epic mountain views you came for.
Winter Season (December to February): If you crave solitude and don’t mind extreme cold, winter might be worth considering. However, expect significant snow, colder temperatures, and potential route closures over the high passes.
Your Best Bet?
For most trekkers, the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons offer the ideal mix of adventure, manageable temperatures, and breathtaking scenery. So, choose your time wisely and prepare for an epic journey through one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding high-altitude trekking routes. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant blooms of spring or the crisp, clear views of autumn, the Everest Three Passes Trek promises an adventure that will stay with you forever.
Getting to the starting point of the Everest Three Passes Trek takes some planning. Lukla, where most treks begin, is famous for being a unique and challenging airport to reach. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand your options.
Flights to Lukla
Flying to Lukla is the fastest and most common way to start the trek. Depending on the time of year, flights leave from Kathmandu or Manthali Airport.
1. Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla
During less busy seasons, flights to Lukla usually leave directly from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. The flight only takes 30-35 minutes and gives you beautiful views of the Himalayas. But keep in mind, weather can cause delays or cancellations.
2. Flights from Manthali to Lukla
In the busy trekking seasons (spring and autumn), flights to Lukla are often rerouted to leave from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. This helps reduce air traffic in Kathmandu. To catch a flight from Manthali, you’ll need to take a 4-6 hour drive from Kathmandu the day before your flight.
- Driving Time: 4-6 hours by car or bus.
- Flight Time: 20-25 minutes from Manthali to Lukla.
- Logistics: You may need to stay overnight near Manthali Airport or leave Kathmandu very early in the morning.
3. Things to Remember About Lukla Flights
- Weather Delays: Flights can be delayed or canceled because of poor weather. It’s a good idea to plan 1-2 extra days in case of delays.
- Weight Limits: Most airlines allow 10 kg for checked bags and 5 kg for carry-ons. If your bag is heavier, you’ll need to pay extra (about NPR 100-200 or USD 1-2 per kg).
- Small Planes: The planes are small and only carry 15-20 people. The landing at Lukla’s short runway can be an exciting experience!
Ground Transportation to Lukla
If you don’t want to fly, you can travel overland to reach Lukla. This takes longer and is more physically challenging, but it’s a great way to explore the area.
1. By Jeep or Bus to Jiri or Phaplu
From Kathmandu, you can take a bus or jeep to Jiri or Phaplu and then start trekking. This classic route adds extra days to your trek and lets you see more of the traditional villages.
- To Jiri: About 8-10 hours by road.
- To Phaplu: About 9-11 hours by road.
2. Trekking from Jiri or Phaplu to Lukla
- From Jiri: Adds 5-7 days of trekking to reach Lukla.
- From Phaplu: Adds 2-3 days of trekking to reach Lukla.
Tips for Transportation Planning
- Plan for Delays
Weather in Lukla is unpredictable. Add 1-2 buffer days to your schedule, especially if you have an international flight home. - Book Early
Flights to Lukla fill up fast during the busy seasons. Book your tickets as early as possible. - Get Travel Insurance
Make sure your travel insurance covers flight delays, cancellations, and helicopter evacuations in case of emergencies. - Stick to Weight Limits
Pack light to avoid extra baggage fees. Use compact gear that doesn’t take up much space.
Understanding your transportation options and challenges will help you get to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest Three Passes Trek, with less stress. Whether you fly or trek overland, good preparation will set you up for an amazing adventure!
If you’re planning to trek the Everest Three Passes, there are a few essential permits and fees you’ll need to arrange before starting. These permits not only grant you access to restricted areas but also contribute to the preservation of the environment and provide an important safety record for trekkers. Below is a complete guide to help you prepare.
Permits You Need for Everest Three Pass Trek
1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
To enter Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest and many iconic peaks, you must obtain this permit. The fee supports the conservation of the park’s unique plants, wildlife, and trails.
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person, excluding tax.
- Where to Get It: Available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the park’s entry checkpoint in Monjo.
2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee
This fee has replaced the TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) for trekking in the Everest region. The funds support local community development and infrastructure.
- Cost: NPR 2,000 (approximately USD 17) per person.
- Where to Get It: Payable at checkpoints in Lukla or Monjo.
Magical Nepal will help you with all permits required for your treks.
Click here to learn more about Everest base camp trek permits
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a high-altitude adventure, offering incredible rewards but also presenting significant challenges due to its extreme elevation. Trekkers face some of the most remote and elevated routes in the Everest region, crossing three high mountain passes above 5,000 meters: Kongma La Pass (5,545 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 m). The altitude poses unique physical and mental challenges, which trekkers need to be prepared for.
Key Altitude Challenges
Reduced Oxygen Levels
As you ascend above 3,000 meters, the oxygen levels in the air drop significantly, making breathing more difficult. By the time you reach passes like Kongma La (5,545 m), oxygen availability is reduced to approximately 50% of sea level.
Trekkers often experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced physical performance.
Altitude Sickness (AMS Acute Mountain Sickness)
Altitude sickness is one of the most common challenges during the trek. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
If symptoms worsen (leading to HAPE – High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HACE – High Altitude Cerebral Edema), immediate descent is critical as these conditions can be life-threatening.
Extreme Weather Conditions
The high passes are exposed to harsh winds, freezing temperatures, and sudden weather changes. Even during the trekking season, snowfall or icy trails can add to the difficulty of crossing the passes.
Steep Ascents and Descents
The physical strain of climbing steep trails to reach the passes and descending into the valleys takes a toll on trekkers, especially at high altitudes where energy levels are already compromised.
Crossing the glacier at Cho La Pass and steep ascents to Kongma La and Renjo La require both physical and mental resilience.
Extended Trekking Duration
The Everest Three Passes Trek is typically 18-21 days long, involving prolonged exposure to high altitudes. The sustained elevation increases the risk of altitude-related issues and requires proper acclimatization.
Preventive Measures for Altitude Challenges
Proper Acclimatization
The trek includes acclimatization days at key locations such as Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), Dingboche (4,410 m), and Gokyo (4,800 m). These stops allow your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels.
Active acclimatization hikes to viewpoints like Nagarjun Hill and Gokyo Ri are highly recommended.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is critical at high altitudes. Dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness symptoms, so trekkers should aim to drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily.
Pacing Yourself
Trekking slowly and steadily is key to conserving energy and reducing the risk of overexertion. Avoid rushing, especially during steep ascents to the passes.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Both alcohol and smoking can worsen dehydration and impair acclimatization. These should be avoided entirely during the trek.
Medication
Diamox (Acetazolamide) is commonly used to help prevent and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. Consult a physician before starting the trek to understand the dosage and possible side effects.
Altitude Challenges at Key Passes
Kongma La Pass (5,545 m)
The highest of the three passes, Kongma La offers stunning views of Nuptse, Lhotse, and Makalu. However, the ascent is long and steep, and the thin air makes the climb exhausting. Descending from Kongma La can be equally challenging due to icy trails and rocky terrain.
Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
Crossing the Cho La Glacier is one of the trek’s highlights but also a major challenge. The icy terrain requires careful navigation, and crampons may be necessary. The descent involves loose rocks and steep sections, demanding focus and balance.
Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)
Renjo La provides panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Gokyo Lakes. However, the high winds and long ascent test the endurance of even experienced trekkers.
Importance of Professional Guides and Porters
Having an experienced guide and porter is invaluable for tackling altitude challenges:
- Guides monitor trekkers for symptoms of altitude sickness and offer advice on pacing and acclimatization.
- Porters carry heavy gear, reducing physical strain and allowing trekkers to focus on the trail.
When planning a trek in the Everest region, many adventure enthusiasts consider options such as the classic Everest Base Camp Trek or the Gokyo Lakes Trek. While these are remarkable experiences in their own right, the Everest Three Passes Trek stands out as the most comprehensive and adventurous option for trekkers seeking a more thrilling and immersive experience. Here’s why you should choose the Three Passes Trek over other popular routes:
1. Ultimate High-Altitude Adventure
Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek, which follows a single route, the Everest Three Passes Trek pushes trekkers to cross three challenging high-altitude passes: Renjo La Pass (5,465 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m/18,159 ft). This trek is known for its adventure-packed days, steep ascents, and demanding terrain. It’s ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a journey that tests their endurance and skills in the high-altitude trekking routes in Nepal.
2. Unparalleled Views and Diverse Landscapes
While the classic Everest Base Camp Trek and the Gokyo Lakes Trek offer breathtaking scenery, the Everest Three Passes Trek combines these highlights into one epic route. Trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam from various vantage points, including Kala Patthar and the top of each pass. The Renjo La Pass boasts views that surpass even those from Kalapatthar, with vistas of the stunning Gokyo Lakes glistening below.
3. Experience More of the Khumbu Region
The Three Passes Trek takes you off the beaten path, allowing trekkers to explore lesser-visited routes and hidden gems in the Everest region. In addition to the main stops at Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes, you’ll pass through vibrant Sherpa villages, visit Tengboche Monastery, and experience the rich culture of the Himalayan Sherpa people. This trek provides an in-depth look at local life, giving trekkers an authentic cultural experience alongside awe-inspiring natural beauty.
4. High-Altitude Challenges for the Adventure-Seeking Trekker
For those looking for a trek that goes beyond the standard routes, the Three Passes Trek offers the perfect combination of thrill and achievement. Crossing three high passes, navigating through glaciers, and trekking at altitudes above 5,000 meters make this the definitive choice for trekkers who crave a challenge. The sense of accomplishment after conquering each pass, paired with the unique sights and physical feats, sets this trek apart as the pinnacle of adventure trekking in Nepal.
5. The Complete Everest Experience
While the Everest Base Camp Trek is an excellent introduction to the Everest region, it focuses on reaching one key destination. The Gokyo Lakes Trek highlights the scenic beauty of the Gokyo Valley but lacks the breadth of exploration found in the Three Passes Trek. By choosing the Everest Three Passes Trek, trekkers can combine the best of both routes and more—enjoying the majestic views from Kala Patthar, visiting Everest Base Camp, and exploring the picturesque Gokyo Lakes in one incredible journey.
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Everest Three High Pass Trek Map
