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Trekkers on the trail above Namche Bazaar at sunrise

Everest Three Pass Trek-17day

A Thrilling Journey Across Everest’s Three High Passes

Duration
16 nights / 17 days
Max altitude
5,545 m
Difficulty
Challenging
Group size
5–28
Best season
Spring, Autumn
Starts from
Kathmandu

Kathmandu → Lukla → Namche → Tengboche → Dingboche → Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp → Kala Patthar → Lukla → Kathmandu

Overview

An ultimate Himalayan adventure crossing the legendary Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La passes, reaching altitudes of up to 5,545 meters. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Everest region as you journey through remote mountain landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, turquoise alpine lakes, glaciers, and spectacular views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This challenging 17-day trek is designed for adventure seekers looking for an unforgettable experience beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route.

Everest Three Pass Trek – 17 Days

The Everest Three Pass Trek is the ultimate Himalayan adventure for trekkers seeking a challenging and unforgettable journey through the heart of the Everest region. This spectacular 17-day trek crosses three legendary high passes—Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m)—while taking you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas.

The journey combines dramatic mountain scenery, ancient Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, glacial valleys, high-altitude lakes, and spectacular views of **Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu**. Along the route, trekkers experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people while exploring the remote and less-traveled parts of the Everest region.

The trek also includes iconic destinations such as **Namche Bazaar, Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar**, offering an incredible combination of adventure, natural beauty, and Himalayan culture.

With challenging high-altitude crossings, rugged trails, glaciers, and panoramic mountain views, the Everest Three Pass Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking to go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route and experience the Himalayas at their most adventurous.

Maximum Altitude: 5,545m
Highest Pass: Kongma La – 5,535m
Duration: 17 Days
Difficulty: Challenging
Region: Everest / Khumbu, Nepal

Trip highlights

  • Cross the legendary Renjo La Pass – 5,360m
  • Challenge yourself at Cho La Pass – 5,420m
  • Conquer Kongma La Pass – 5,535m
  • Reach the iconic Everest Base Camp
  • Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest & Himalayan giants
  • Experience authentic Sherpa culture and mountain villages
  • Visit historic Buddhist monasteries of the Khumbu region
  • Explore glaciers, high-altitude valleys and dramatic landscapes

Altitude profile

Itinerary

Summary of all 2 days
DayWhereAltitudeWalking
1Kathmandu to Lukla to Phakding2,610 m5 hrs · 6.2 km
2Phakding to Namche Bazaar3,440 m— · 7.4 km
  1. Day 1Kathmandu to Lukla to Phakding

    • Altitude2,610 m
    • Walking5 hrs
    • Distance6.2 km
    • StayTeahouse in Phakding
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner
    • TransportMountain flight, then trek
    Kathmandu to Lukla to Phakding — day 1

    Fly to Lukla, one of the world's most dramatic mountain airstrips, then trek gently down to Phakding by the Dudh Koshi river.

  2. Day 2Phakding to Namche Bazaar

    • Altitude3,440 m
    • Distance7.4 km
    • StayTeahouse in Namche Bazaar
    • TransportTrek

    Follow the Dudh Koshi valley, crossing it on high suspension bridges strung with prayer flags. After the last bridge, a long steep climb brings you up to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital set in a natural amphitheatre. Your first glimpse of Everest comes on the way up.

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Every day here can move. Tell us how many days you have, who is coming and what you want to see, and we will rewrite this itinerary around it — same guides, same published pricing.

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What's included

Included in the price

  • Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu flights
  • Teahouse accommodation throughout the trek
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trek
  • Licensed, experienced Sherpa guide
  • Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Rural Municipality permits
  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu

Not included

  • International flights and Nepal visa
  • Kathmandu hotels before and after the trek
  • Personal expenses, drinks, hot showers, wifi and tips
  • Travel Insurance

Common questions about this trip

How difficult is the Everest Three Pass Trek?

The Everest Three Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek suitable for experienced trekkers or physically fit adventurers. The trek involves long walking days, steep ascents, and crossing three passes above 5,300m.

What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point is Kala Patthar at approximately 5,545m, while the highest of the three passes is Kongma La at 5,535m.

What are the three passes?

The trek crosses Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m).

Do I need previous trekking experience?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended. However, physically fit trekkers with good preparation can also undertake the trek with proper acclimatization and guidance.

What is the best season for the Everest Three Pass Trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is generally stable and mountain visibility is excellent.

How should I prepare for the trek?

Regular cardio, hiking, strength training, and long-distance walking before the trek are recommended. Good physical preparation will make the high-altitude sections more comfortable.

What kind of accommodation is available?

Accommodation is generally in comfortable local teahouses/lodges, offering basic rooms and shared facilities in the higher areas.

What kind of food is available during the trek?

Teahouses offer a variety of meals including Dal Bhat, noodles, pasta, soup, rice, vegetables, eggs, Tibetan bread, and other local and international options. Vegetarian options are widely available.

Do I need a guide and porter?

For a challenging trek like Three Pass, traveling with an experienced licensed guide is strongly recommended. A porter can also carry your main luggage, allowing you to trek more comfortably.

What happens if the weather affects the trek?

Mountain weather can change quickly. Your guide will adjust the itinerary when necessary to prioritize safety and suitable trail conditions. Delays or route changes may occasionally be required.

What makes the Three Pass Trek different from Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Three Pass Trek is more challenging and offers a much more comprehensive experience of the Everest region, combining three high passes, Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, glaciers, remote valleys, and spectacular Himalayan scenery.

Something else on your mind? Ask us — or read the general questions.

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$ 2,000

per person

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