Enjoy a 16-day Everest region trek that crosses three High Passes over 5000m, such as Kongma La Pass (5535m), Cho La Pass (5380m), and Renjo La Pass (5388m).
Throughout this trip, you will have breathtaking mountain views of the Himalayas, such as Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and several other snow-capped Himalayan peaks. This strenuous/challenging trek is where you will trek over 5000 meters above sea level. You will walk through great scenic places, verdant hills, wooded forests, and picturesque valleys.
On the Everest Three High Passes Trek, you will trek a circuit around the entire Everest region with splendid views of the Highest Mountain in the world. The challenging trek that crosses three high passes over 5000 meters above sea level leaves the Everest Base Camp trek crowd behind. The Everest Three High Passes Trek is the complete trek in Nepal as it covers most of the Everest region on this circular route.
The difficulty level of this Everest Three Passes Trek is more challenging than other treks in the Everest region, such as Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes, but less complicated than Island Peak and Mera Peak climbing.
The best months to trek three high passes on Everest are March, April, May (Spring), and October to November (Autumn/fall) – the months with the best mountain view and comfortable weather.
In the below itinerary of 3 High passes trek in the Everest Region, we have mentioned only the number of days for trekking; you will need to have extra few days in Kathmandu in case of flight cancellation Lukla and some other excursion in Kathmandu valley.
You will wake up early in the morning to catch a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu (via Ramechhap). It is about a 30-minute flight to Lukla (2610m).
We begin our trek from Lukla to Phakding through the Dudh Koshi River valley. This route is smooth and passes through the small village of Ghat (2550m) before arriving at Phakding.
Overnight at Phakding.
This day starts with a gentle walk to Monjo, a beautiful Sherpa village. Here, we enter Sagarmatha National Park where permits are checked.
The trail then climbs steeply toward Namche Bazaar. Along the way, you will catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest and Lhotse.
Overnight at a tea house in Namche Bazaar.
It is important to acclimatize properly. You can explore Namche Bazaar, hike nearby viewpoints, and stroll around the market.
Overnight at the hotel.
The trail involves gradual ascents and descents with stunning Himalayan views. You descend to the Dudh Koshi River (3550m) before climbing up to Tengboche.
Tengboche offers breathtaking views of Everest, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam. You can also visit the famous Tengboche Monastery.
You will trek through forests and cross the Imja Khola Valley. The landscape becomes more alpine as you gain altitude.
Passing Pangboche village (with access to Ama Dablam Base Camp), you continue to Dingboche.
Enjoy spectacular views of Ama Dablam and Island Peak. Overnight at a guesthouse.
A shorter trek today leads you to Chhukung in another part of the Khumbu region.
Enjoy incredible views of Makalu, Island Peak, Peak 30, and surrounding mountains.
Overnight at guesthouse.
Today you cross Kongma La Pass, one of the three high passes. The trail passes above Pheriche and Dingboche valleys.
It is a long and challenging day but offers spectacular views of the Khumbu region.
You trek along the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp.
Enjoy views of Pumori, Khumbutse, Changtse, and the Khumbu Icefall.
Return to Gorak Shep for overnight stay.
Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks.
Return to Gorak Shep, descend to Lobuche, and continue to Dzong La.
Overnight at guesthouse.
Cross the glacier-marked Cho La Pass with cairns guiding the route.
Descend to Thangnak and continue to Gokyo Valley, passing beautiful lakes.
Overnight at Gokyo.
Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri for one of the best panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
Return to Gokyo for overnight stay.
Cross Renjo La Pass via Dudh Pokhari Lake.
Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, and Taboche.
Pass Relama Tsho and Renjo Lakes before reaching Lungden (4350m).
Descend through Bhote Koshi Valley, passing Taranga village before reaching Thame.
Overnight at guesthouse.
Follow the river trail and cross suspension bridges through rhododendron forests to reach Namche Bazaar.
Descend along the same trail back to Lukla.
Overnight at Lukla.
Fly back from Lukla to Ramechhap and drive to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel.
You may extend your stay for sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley or travel to Chitwan for a jungle safari.
Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your trekking experience. To keep things easy and comfortable, one porter is assigned for every two trekkers. Each porter carries a maximum of 22 kg, so the luggage allowance is 11 kg per trekker.
We recommend sharing a duffle bag (60+ liters) with your trekking partner for porter use. You should also carry a small daypack (20–30 liters) for valuables, documents, water, and daily essentials. Any extra luggage can be securely stored at your hotel free of charge during the trek.
While personal preferences may vary, the following packing list will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable on the trail.
Note: We can provide a used duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag if needed.
