Everest Three Passes Trek, the ultimate trekking adventure

Highly popular for tallest mountains, breath taking landscapes, unique highland culture, beautiful forests and endangered species. Everest region is home to many incredible trekking routes from soft trekking in lower altitudes to longer treks along the high mountain passes. For travelers seeking more challenges, less crowd and journey of a lifetime with unparalleled views and fascinating culture. Everest Three Passes Trek is an ideal adventure, taking you off the beaten path with some of Nepal’s stunning sights. Even the experienced hikers find this trail a true challenge. So, if you are up to take the challenge, this trek has the best of Khumbu in reserve.

This trek offers scenic trails and adventurous crossings of Renjo La (5340m), Cho La (5420m), and Kongma La (5535m). These passes connect the four valleys of Imja, Khumbu, Gokyo and Bhote Koshi. Besides the panoramic views of some of the world’s highest mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Ama Dablam and captivating valleys, you can also experience the rich cultural heritage of Sherpa people of the region during the trek.

Considered as a longer trek, Three Passes Trek takes about 18 days to complete. This adventurous trek commences from Lukla towards the Dudh Koshi valley on a well-marked trail. And crosses the green dense forest, scattered rhododendron bushes, beautiful flora and fauna, ever flowing mountain gorges.  Then, passes through culturally rich villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar to reach Tengboche. And a hilltop settlement with its iconic monastery standing sentinel overlooking the valley. From Tengboche, the trail contours on the side of the valley which offers the stunning views of beautiful mountains of Khumbu including Mt. Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Nuptse (7861 m), and Ama Dablam (6812 m). The path descends downhill and crosses Imja Khola to reach the beautiful village of Dingboche. Then, the trail gradually hikes to Chhukung, the last village of Imja Valley, offering a marvelous view of Lhotse.

Continuing from Chhukung, the trail passes through one of the three Everest High Passes, Kongma la (5535 m) and descends to the section of scree and boulder fields towards Lobuche. The trail then proceeds towards Cho La (5420 m) along the ridge curving towards west with amazing views of Arakam Tse (6423m), Cholatse (6335m), Taboche (6367m) and reaches Dzongla. Out of Dzongla, the trail heads northwest and descends to Dragnag. Then, it passes through the treacherous Ngozumpa Glacier to the beautiful village of Gokyo, beside the turquoise Gokyo Lake. Furthermore, path leads to Gokyo Ri, a perfect viewpoint of remarkable views of Gokyo Lake, Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu and Cho-Oyu Base Camp.

After the rewarding climb, the trail ascends towards Renjo La (5340 m) along the northern shore. It offers the astonishing views of Makalu and Rolwaling range. The trail’s last section descends on a flat path with cairns and stony steps to the quiet village of Thame. After that, it passes through a steady trail strewn with prayer flags and mani stones to Namche Bazaar. Then, retracing back to Lukla, completing the exciting Everest Three Passes Trek..