Kathmandu
Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel and Lodge (Tea House)
3 Course Meals (B, L, D)
Hard
5,550 m/18,209 ft (Kala Patthar)
Trekking & Sightseeing
Spring (March–May), Autumn (October–November)
22 days
137.5 km (85.44 miles)
Conquer the legendary high passes of Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,368 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m) in one epic circular adventure.
Trek all the way to Mount Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m, standing in the shadow of the world’s highest peak.
Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,550 m), with golden light bathing Everest and surrounding giants.
Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for sweeping panoramic views of four of the world’s highest peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Marvel at the vibrant turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes, located amid dramatic Himalayan peaks.
Traverse the massive Ngozumba Glacier, one of Nepal’s largest and most impressive glacier, flowing beside the Gokyo Valley.
Soak in close-up vistas of iconic peaks including Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Pumori, Cholatse and more from multiple high vantage points.
Visit the serene Tengboche Monastery, the most famous spiritual site in the Khumbu, surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains.
Explore authentic Sherpa villages like bustling Namche Bazaar, traditional Thame, and peaceful Khumjung, experiencing rich local culture.
Spot elusive wildlife in Sagarmatha National Park, including snow leopards, red pandas, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr.
Pass colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, ancient mani walls, and thrilling high suspension bridges over deep gorges.
Complete a unique circular loop that weaves through all four Everest valleys — Imja Valley, Khumbu Valley, Gokyo Valley, and Dudhkoshi Valley — for maximum variety and immersion.
Many trekkers dream of immersing themselves in the full majesty of the Everest region — not settling for just a glimpse of Mount Everest from Base Camp, but truly experiencing the heart of the Khumbu with its diverse valleys, turquoise lakes, and jaw-dropping high-altitude vistas taking Everest Three Passes Trek. The classic base camp trekking in Nepal delivers an unforgettable journey to Everest Base Camp, but it often leaves adventurers wanting more: the serene beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, the raw, untamed wilderness beyond the main trail, and the thrill of conquering legendary high passes that connect hidden corners of the Himalayas.
Unfortunately, most visitors miss out on these deeper rewards. The standard EBC trekking route sticks to a linear path, bypassing the pristine Gokyo Valley, the dramatic Ngozumpa Glacier, and the remote villages of Chhukung and Thame. Trekkers rarely get to cross the iconic high passes that offer panoramic, 360-degree views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other peaks — views that make the effort truly epic. Without these elements, the experience feels incomplete, lacking the ultimate challenge and variety that define the best Himalayan adventures.
The Everest Three Passes Trek solves this perfectly — it’s the most complete and exhilarating way to explore the entire Everest region in one epic loop. Known as the Everest Three High Passes Trek or the Everest Base Camp and Three Passes Trek, this demanding journey crosses three legendary high passes: Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,368 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m). It connects four stunning valleys — Imja, Khumbu, Gokyo, and Bhote Koshi — while taking you to Everest Base Camp, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and the breathtaking sunrise viewpoint of Kala Patthar and panoramic Gokyo Ri, all within the protected landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park.
This is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, far beyond a standard Base Camp visit, with steep ascents, rocky terrain, and extended days at high altitude — yet it requires no technical climbing skills, just solid fitness, prior trekking experience, and respect for the mountains. The circular route ensures you avoid retracing steps, maximizing variety and immersion.
If you’re an experienced trekker ready for the ultimate Himalayan test, the Everest Three Passes Trek delivers the full Everest glory in 22 unforgettable days.
The heart of the Everest Three Passes Trek lies in crossing its three legendary high passes — each one a unique test of endurance and a gateway to unparalleled Himalayan vistas. These crossings transform a standard trek into an unforgettable adventure through remote valleys, glaciers, and soaring peaks.
As the highest and most physically demanding of the trio, Kongma La stands as the ultimate challenge early in the journey, crossed on Day 10 of the trek. Starting from the peaceful village of Chhukhung, the trail climbs steeply through rocky moraines and boulder fields, gaining over 1,000 meters in a single push that tests every muscle and lung capacity. Near the top, a serene frozen lake mirrors the surrounding giants, offering a brief moment of calm before the final ascent to the windy pass summit. From here, the reward is breathtaking: a sweeping 360-degree panorama encompassing Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse towering above the Khumbu Glacier far below, and the distant silhouette of Makalu piercing the horizon. The descent is equally intense — a long, loose scree and boulder field that demands careful footing all the way down to Lobuche. For those seeking the rawest adventure in the Everest High Pass Trek or Everest Three High Passes Trek, Kongma La delivers an unmatched sense of isolation and achievement amid this dramatic alpine landscape.
Cho La Pass Nepal serves as the dramatic bridge between the Khumbu Valley and the hidden Gokyo Valley, crossed on Day 14 after a night in Dzongla. The ascent begins gradually before reaching the edge of a vast, icy glacier — the most technically demanding section of the entire trek — where micro spikes or crampons are highly recommended for grip on the slippery, uneven ice. Trekkers navigate crevasses and rock bands under the watchful gaze of surrounding peaks, building tension with every step until the narrow pass summit reveals itself. At the top, flags flutter wildly as views open up to Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Everest, and Lhotse in a stunning alignment, with the Ngozumpa Glacier sprawling below. The western descent plunges steeply into the Gokyo Valley, a thrilling drop through rocky terrain that feels worlds away from the more traveled EBC trekking route. This crossing often stands out as the trek’s toughest test, blending physical grit with the thrill of true high-mountain exploration.
The Renjo La Pass Trek offers the most scenic and least crowded experience among the three, crossed on Day 16 from Gokyo and providing a peaceful finale to the high-pass sequence. The trail ascends steadily along a series of switchbacks, passing prayer flags and stone cairns, with the turquoise Gokyo Lakes shimmering far below like jewels in the valley. Reaching the pass feels almost meditative — wide open views unfold to Everest, Makalu, and the entire Rolwaling range, while the Ngozumpa Glacier snakes northward toward the distant border. This pass connects the Gokyo Valley directly to the remote Bhote Koshi Valley near the Nepal-Tibet frontier, offering a sense of stepping into untouched wilderness. For trekkers on the Everest Three Passes Trek, Renjo La provides the perfect balance of beauty and serenity, with fewer crowds allowing quiet reflection amid one of the Himalayas’ most photogenic panoramas.
The Everest Three Passes Trek Map beautifully illustrates the classic 22-day circular journey that takes you deep into the heart of Sagarmatha National Park. Starting with a scenic flight into Lukla (2,860 m), the trail climbs steadily through lush forests and Sherpa villages to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), then continues to Tengboche and Dingboche before reaching Chhukhung. From there it crosses the first high pass, Kongma La (5,535 m), descends to Lobuche, visits Mount Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), and includes the sunrise climb to Kala Patthar. Unlike any linear trek, this route then loops westward over Cho La (5,368 m) into the pristine Gokyo Valley, climbs Gokyo Ri, crosses the scenic Renjo La (5,360 m) into the remote Bhote Koshi Valley, passes through traditional Thame village, and returns via Namche Bazaar to Lukla.
This true circular loop is what makes the Everest base camp and three passes trek so special — you never retrace your steps, experiencing four distinct valleys (Imja, Khumbu, Gokyo, and Bhote Koshi) and three legendary high passes in one seamless adventure. The Everest Three Passes Trek Map clearly shows how the route connects every highlight without repetition, offering constant new scenery, different cultural encounters, and ever-changing mountain perspectives.
For precise daily distances, altitudes, and logistics, study the Everest Three Passes Trek Map above. The complete Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary follows below, providing a step-by-step guide trusted by leading operators in Everest Expeditions Nepal.
The Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary is thoughtfully designed as a complete 22-day package for the Everest High Pass Trek, ensuring a logical route order, realistic daily distances, and full safety. This Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary includes three dedicated acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche and Gokyo, including three viewpoint days at Gokyo Ri, Kala Patthar, and Everest Base Camp. These built-in breaks allow trekkers to adapt gradually to the high altitude while enjoying the stunning Himalayan landscapes.
It’s a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. As your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our waiting support team will meet and greet you at the arrivals and escort you to your hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities.
Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since Nepal opened its doors to visitors. The city presents a wonderful mix of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence. There will be a guided tour to UNESCO World Heritage Sites Boudhnath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and after that to Pashupatinath, the most popular Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. You take a tour to Patan also called as Lalitpur (the City of Artisans), which is 5 km away from Kathmandu. You will walk through Patan Durbar Square and delight in the architectural wonders of Malla era. Mahaboudha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple are the major attractions at the square.
Early morning you will be transferred to Ramechhap airport to catch the Lukla flight. A scenic flight of 15 minutes from Ramechhap brings us to Lukla airport, a cliff-hanging airport in Khumbu from where most of the Everest trekking is started. After meeting the crew, you head up the Dudh Koshi Valley on a well-marked trail and then stay overnight in Phakding.
From Phakding, you cross and re-cross the river on high suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo (2835 m / 9301 ft) is the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park which was set-up in order to protect and preserve the fragile mountain environment. You then take a steep hike to Namche, one of the most important stopovers while trekking in Nepal. If the weather is clear, you get the first glimpse of Mt Everest on this day. Namche is the main trading center in the Khumbu region and has a busy Saturday market – a meeting place for the locals and the people from neighboring vicinity.
Namche Bazar is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, teashops and souvenir shops. It is an ideal place to spend a day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before heading off towards Tengboche. To acclimatize, you can visit Khunde Village (3840 m / 12598 ft) which has Hospital set-up by Sir Edmund Hillary, and Khumjung Village (3780 m / 12402 ft) which have a monastery known for having famous yeti scalp or take a one hour walk up to the Everest View Hotel above Namche for the sunset view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest. There are also good views from the National Park Centre and Museum just above the town.
From Namche, the trail contours on to the side of the valley, high above the Dudh Koshi. You get our first really good views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Passing by some settlements with numerous teashops, you descend steeply to a bridge over the river at Phungi Thanga (3250 m / 10663 ft). The village is an ideal stopover for lunch. Here you can rest before making the steep climb to Tengboche Monastery, one of the most remarkable monasteries you visit during Everest Base Camp Trek. Although the hike up the zigzag path is tiring, it presents us with many beautiful sights of rhododendron bushes with beautiful birds and superb mountain scenery. Tengboche is famous for its legendary monastery, the largest in the Khumbu. A spectacular panorama of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam rising in the horizon can be seen from here.
You descend downhill through a forest, cross the Imja Khola and climb steadily to the village of Pangboche. This village is directly opposite Ama Dablam (6814 m/22356 ft) and has exceptional views of the mountain with the monastery, mani walls and scattered pine trees in the foreground. A further two hours’ walk-through scrub junipers bring you to Dingboche.
A full day has been allocated for acclimatization. You get to wander up the valley to the summit of Nangkartshang Peak (5083 m / 16677 ft), from where you can get the stupendous 360-degree view of the mountains including Mt. Makalu (8463 m / 27766 ft), Lhotse (8516 m / 27490 ft), Cho Oyu (8201 m / 26906 ft), Imja Tse (Island Peak)(6165 m / 20226 ft), Ama Dablam (6814 m / 22356 ft), Khangtega (6783 m / 22254 ft), Thamserku (6623 m/21729 ft), Tawoche (6501 m / 21329 ft) and Cholatse (6423 m / 21073 ft). After returning back, you can either explore the village or relax at your lodge.
You have an easy walk today as it’s just about 3 hours’ hike on flat trail to Chhukhung Village (4730 m / 15518 ft) – the last village in Imja Khola Valley. Walking through the valley, you have a marvelous view of Lhotse’s massive south wall dominating the region. After reaching Chhukhung Village, you can either explore the village or relax at your lodge.
Today is a challenging day as you cross the first one of the three Everest high passes: Kongma La (5535 m / 18159 ft). You start from the west of the Chhukhung Village through a well-defined trail. After about an hour of easy walk, you start ascending along the steep path towards Kongma La. You come across a frozen lake right below the pass. After crossing the lake starts a very steep ascent till the top from where you can see the incredible views of the valley. From Kongma La you’re treated to an awe-inspiring panorama of the Himalayas. The towering Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031.69 ft) dominates the view, its majestic peak seemingly within reach. Close by, Lhotse (8516 m/27940 ft) complements the scene with its impressive height. To the east, Makalu (8463 m / 27766 ft) presents its distinctive pyramid shape against the skyline. The rugged ridges of Nuptse (7855 m / 25771 ft) add to the dramatic effect. Below, the Khumbu Glacier stretches out, its icy expanse contributing to the rugged beauty. Surrounding you is a multitude of other Himalayan peaks, creating a breathtaking and expansive view that captures the grandeur of this high-altitude landscape. Then you walk down through the sections of scree and boulder fields towards the eastern side of Khumbu glacier and finally make your way to Lobuche.
A very early start is required to reach Gorak Shep. The trail offers superb views of the surrounding mountains, especially where the path is forced to rise to cross a tributary glacier. You stop for lunch at Gorak Shep. Later in the afternoon, you make your way to the Everest Base Camp. It takes several hours as the trail weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. On the return leg, you can take a higher route to get a spectacular view of the Khumbu Icefall and the route to the South Col. You will return back to Gorak Shep for the overnight stay.
Early morning, you make your way to the top of one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region, Kala Patthar (5550 m / 18209 ft). Way to Kala Patthar is steep trail so you will take comfortable pace to reach on the top. From Kala Pattharthe views are unparalleled. Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031.69 ft) dominates the scene, offering a stunning close-up of its towering summit. Nearby, Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft) stands prominently, showcasing its dramatic southern face. To the southwest, Nuptse (7855 m / 25771 ft) adds a rugged contrast with its imposing ridges. The distinctive pyramid shape of Pumori (7161 m / 23494 ft) to the west further enriches the panoramic vista. You can also see Lintren (6713 m/22024 ft) and Khumbu Tse (6639 m/21782 ft) and Pumori (7161 m/23494 ft) mountains. The surrounding peaks and glaciers complete this breathtaking tableau, making Kala Patthar a premier vantage point in the Everest region. You will spend some time on the summit and stroll back to Gorak Shep and continue down to Lobuche.
You head south from Lobuche following the Everest Base Camp trail until it forks at a junction one leading to Dughla (Thokla) (4620 m / 15157 ft) and another to Cho La. You take the right path towards Cho La along the ridge curving towards west with amazing views of Arakam Tse (6423 m / 21073 ft), Cholatse (6423 m / 21073 ft), Tawoche (6501 m / 21329 ft) and frozen lake, Chola Tsho (4590 m / 15059 ft) below. After continuing through a lot of ups and downs, you finally begin your climb to Dzonglha. After reaching Dzonglha you stay in a lodge/teahouse to prepare for next days’ trek.
Out of Dzongla, the trail heads northwest through a flat area. After crossing a stream, the trail climbs steeply towards Cho la glacier along the snowy trail (micro spikes recommended). Out of Dzonglha, the trail heads northwest through a flat area. After crossing a stream, the trail climbs steeply towards Cho La glacier along the snowy trail (micro spikes recommended). Slowly you make the way through incredibly slippery and tricky trail with field of icy scree around you. Once you inch yourselves to the top of Cho La, the second of the three Everest high passes, you will be welcomed by the splendid mountain vistas. From Cho La the views are truly remarkable. To the northwest, you can see Mount Cho Oyu (8201 m / 26906 ft), its vast and snow-covered slopes creating a majestic presence. Eastward, the rugged ridges of Nuptse (7855 m / 25771 ft) add a dramatic and imposing element to the landscape. Mount Everest (8848.86 m /29031.69 ft) is visible, offering an awe-inspiring sight. Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft), with its southern face, also contributes to the panoramic view. Below, the Khumbu Glacier stretches out, adding to the rugged beauty of the high-altitude scenery. Then you start descending towards the western side of the pass which is relatively steeper than the other side but less technical. After reaching the valley floor, you walk through a flat land for a while and start another climb and endless descent to Dragnag (4700 m / 15420 ft) and continue the treacherous glacial walk across Ngozumba glacier to a beautiful village of Gokyo, by the side of an enormous turquoise lake (if not frozen).
Gokyo Ri looms above the village on the northern edge of the lake and we leave just after first light, following a steep path up the hillside. As we climb, the summits of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu slowly come into sight and the view from the summit of Gokyo Ri itself, is one of the finest to have in the Everest region - some say it is even better than that from Kala Patthar. From Gokyo Ri the view encompasses a stunning array of Himalayan peaks and landscapes. To the snortheast, you’ll see Mount Everest (8848.86 / 29031.69 ft) dominating the horizon with its towering presence. Easthward, the dramatic face of Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft) adds to the awe-inspiring scenery. Looking east, the pyramid shaped summit of Makalu (8463 m / 27766 ft) stands out prominently. To the north, Cho Oyu (8201 m / 26906 ft) reveals its massive snow-covered slopes. Below Gokyo Ri, the vast Ngozumba Glacier stretches out, creating a striking glacial landscape. The vibrant turquoise Gokyo Lakes, nestled in the valley directly beneath, contrast beautifully with the surrounding snow and rocky terrain, completing this breathtaking panorama.
You head for the final pass of this Everest High Pass Trek. Early in the morning, you begin to walk through the northern shore and start your climb along the lake to flat area. The trail continues to slowly climb till the base of Renjo La. Once you start climbing the pass, the ascent becomes very steep. As you reach the top you will be rewarded by the awesome views of Makalu and Rolwaling range. Finally, you have completed all the three Everest high passes! Descending from the pass, you come across some scree fields marked with cairns and stony steps. The trail leads to the valley floor past small alpine lakes continuing till Lungdhen Village.
Today is the day of easiest walk through the gradually descending flat trail. From Lungde, the trail continues towards south. Passing through Marulung (4210 m / 13812 ft), a quiet village, you head to Thame, a very beautiful town situated at the confluence of Bhote Koshi Nadi and Thame Khola Valleys. It’s a growing town filled with houses and monasteries especially Thame Gompa, the site for the spring celebration of the Mani Rimdu festival. The town is a proud home of Apa Sherpa, a world-famous mountaineer holding the world record for climbing Everest 21 times; and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, one of the first Everest summiteers.
Today, the trail meanders through the Bhote Khosi valley. First you descend steeply having some good views of Tengkangpoche (6500 m / 21325 ft) and Kwangde (6086 m /19967 ft). Then you pass through a steady trail strewn with prayer flags and mani stones. Heading further west, you reach Namche Bazar, this time from the opposite end of the town’s amphitheater. The town’s liveliness makes us feel that you are back to the civilization once again. Your early arrival gives you ample of opportunities to explore the town one last time before you head down.
Our final day’s trek follows the Dudh Koshi back down to Lukla. This last evening calls for a celebration. You have a party with your Sherpa guides and porters. You sample some ‘Chhyang’ (local beer) and try out some Sherpa dance steps. Altogether an end to a memorable trip on a merry note!
As your trek has concluded, you pack up early and head for the airstrip to hop a flight back to Ramechhap. And you will be transferred to Kathmandu by the private vehicle. The rest of your day is free to do your own things. You could do some last-minute shopping and packing, or even go down for a stroll in Thamel, an internationally known hub for tourists in Asia.
This is a contingency day in case of Lukla flight delays. If you have free time, you can let go the strains of your trekking in the Himalaya. You can explore around the Heritage sites in the city, stroll down the streets of Thamel for local cultural experience, visit nearby monasteries, relax at a nearby spa centers or do some souvenir haunting in the local bazar.
Our support team will take you to the airport for your flight back home. (Or stay longer for short tours such as jungle tours at National Parks, do some wild-water rafting, a Tibet tour or even mountain biking, etc.). Please ask us.
The cost of the Everest Three Passes Trek is completely transparent and covers everything you need for a safe and comfortable adventure: tea house accommodation, three daily meals (in the Tea House option), experienced guide and porter support, all required permits, domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla (or Ramechhap), and 4 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu. Both full-service Tea House Trek (meals included) and GAP Trek (Guide + Accommodation + Porter, with meals paid on your own) options are available to match your budget and preference. There are no hidden costs — everything is clearly explained upfront so you can trek with total peace of mind.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is officially rated Grade 4 (Difficult). In simple terms, this means it is a serious high-altitude Himalayan challenge that demands strong physical endurance, mental resilience, and previous trekking experience. Expect 6–8 hours of walking each day on rocky, uneven trails, with steep ascents and descents over three high passes above 5,300 m. You will face icy glacier sections, long days above 5,000 m, and several consecutive demanding stages without easy escape routes. This is far more strenuous than standard base camp trekking in Nepal — it is not suitable for beginners or first-time trekkers.
This trek suits experienced adventurers who already have solid fitness and prior high-altitude exposure. The Everest Three High Passes Trek and Everest High Pass Trek are ideal for those who have completed the Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit, or similar multi-week journeys. No technical climbing or mountaineering skills are required — just good cardiovascular fitness, strong legs, and the ability to handle long days at altitude.
Altitude sickness is a real concern above 5,000 m, but the itinerary includes essential acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche and Gokyo to help your body adjust safely. Listen to your body, stay hydrated, and walk at a steady pace. Trekkers also use Diamox (acetazolamide) as a preventive aid — always consult your doctor before taking any medication. With proper preparation, the rewards of this epic loop far outweigh the challenge.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is best undertaken during two reliable windows: spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November). These are the only periods when the high passes remain safely crossable and the weather in Sagarmatha National Park delivers stable conditions for a 22-day high-altitude adventure.
In spring, the trails come alive with blooming rhododendrons that paint the lower slopes in vibrant reds and pinks. Days are slightly warmer, snow on the passes is more manageable, and the valleys feel fresh and green. This season offers a wonderful balance of pleasant temperatures and spectacular mountain scenery, making the long ascents feel a little easier.
Autumn, however, is widely considered the absolute best time for the trek. The skies are clear after the monsoon, delivering the sharpest, most dramatic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. Visibility is excellent for photography, and the air feels crisp and invigorating — perfect for the demanding crossings of Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
Winter (December–February) and monsoon (June–September) are not recommended. Heavy snow and ice make the passes extremely hazardous, especially the exposed Renjo La pass trek and the glacier section on Cho La pass Nepal. Strong winds, freezing temperatures, and low visibility increase the risk of accidents. The Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary is carefully designed around the spring and autumn windows to maximize safety and enjoyment.
Three official permits are mandatory for the Everest Three Passes Trek to ensure safety, conservation, and responsible trekking in the Everest region. These include:
Our team at Explore Himalaya handles every permit arrangement for you in advance, so you can focus entirely on the adventure. (This service is part of the reliable standards followed by leading Everest Expeditions Nepal operators.). For the starting point in Lukla, you will take a thrilling 30–40 minute mountain flight from Kathmandu. During the peak spring and autumn seasons, many flights operate from Ramechhap (Manthali) Airport instead, requiring an early morning 4–5 hour scenic drive from Kathmandu. This adjustment keeps schedules smoother and reduces congestion at Kathmandu’s domestic terminal.
Packing the right gear is essential for the Everest High Pass Trek, where you’ll face freezing temperatures, icy trails, high winds, and long days above 5,000 m. A good 4-season sleeping bag (rated to -15°C or similar) keeps you warm in the tea houses, while sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support and waterproofing are non-negotiable for rocky moraines and snow. Layering is key: a high-quality waterproof jacket, a warm down jacket, and thick gloves protect against sudden weather changes. Micro spikes (or crampons) are especially important for the slippery glacier crossing on Cho La Pass Nepal, and trekking poles help on steep ascents and descents. Don’t forget sunscreen (high SPF), a daypack for water and essentials, a headlamp, and a reusable water bottle.
Most of this gear can be easily hired or purchased in Kathmandu’s Thamel area at reasonable prices. We provides every client with a comprehensive, trek-specific gear list after booking, so you’ll know exactly what to bring and what we supply (including sleeping bags and trekking poles for those who prefer not to carry extra weight from home). Proper preparation ensures you stay safe, comfortable, and focused on the incredible mountain views.
TRIP GRADE: Difficult (Grade 4)
The trek will be a long journey that takes us directly into high mountains, leading us to some of the renowned passes, mountaineering base camps and viewpoints. Physically quite tiring, involves approx. 6 – 8 hours trekking along rocky ridges and high passes of Himalayan peaks. No previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercises and enjoy walking in the high-altitude conditions.
TREKKING TYPES
Trekking in Nepal is categorized in three different types based on their way of organization (Camping Trek, Tea House Trek and GAP Trek). Everest Three Passes Trek is organized in two ways (Tea House Trek and GAP Trek) due to the abundance of accommodation facilities available in the region.
ACCOMMODATION
Trekking in Everest region doesn’t need tremendous logistics in terms of accommodation as you will find plenty of clean and friendly lodges along the trail.
You often have to share rooms but you can also stay in single rooms where possible. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets. A few have electric blanket, hot bags (luxury lodges) and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We will accommodate you and your group in a comfortable local lodge each day. The Guide coordinates with the local lodge owners and a porter is sent ahead to book the required rooms for the group (rooms cannot always be booked in advance).
Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary. It is cheaper to stay in lodge rather than organizing a camping trek.
FOOD
Lodge Trek: Meals are included in our price and are taken in lodges available along the trail. You can find a considerable variety of Nepali (rice, curry & lentil, momo, noodles, chapattis, etc.) and Western food (pizza, pasta, sandwich, chips, porridge, toast, pancake, soup, etc) as well as drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer). The Guide suggests you the best option as per the availability.
GAP Trek: You will have to make your own eating arrangements in the lodges available along the trail. Expect to spend around $ 25 – $ 30 a day for food. Guide, accommodation and porters are covered in the price.
WATER
You will be provided filtered water about 3 – 4 liters per person per day. The good thing about such water is it doesn’t smell chlorine. We normally use Sawyer Filters. However, you can also buy bottled water in tea houses. You can also bring water purification pills in case you want to drink water from local taps.
PERSONAL EXPENSES – MONEY TO TAKE ON TREK
Money requirement depends largely on type of trek style, duration and trekking region.
For a three-week Everest Three Passes Trek, you can take about $ 300 – $ 400, more if you intend to get more table drinks (alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas), souvenirs, battery charge, internet, hot shower (available in some places) etc. We pay for your accommodation and meals at mountain hut (tea house) along the trail and bear all the expenses of staffs assigned by us. However, for extra bar bills, snacks, hot shower, battery charge, internet etc. you have to pay directly to lodge owner on the spot.
CHANGING MONEY
You can change money at your hotel or the money exchange counter in Kathmandu. Many Tourist class Hotels have money exchange facilities. These days, there are availability of ATMs everywhere in Kathmandu and some in Lukla and Namche.
TIPS
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the completion of your trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise that you can allocate 5 – 10 % of the total tour cost as tips. It is recommended that you talk to the members and hand it over individually as per the hierarchy on the last day of the trek.
GROUP SIZE ON FIXED DEPARTURE
If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of group varies, minimum number of persons required to operate a trip is 2 and the maximum is 15 people.
For a Private Booking, any number size from 1 pax to 20 pax are acceptable and can be comfortably organized. We go for special planning for handling group size bigger than 20 pax.
GROUP LEADER AND CREW
All our trips are led by Government licensed local trekking guides. The guides have vast knowledge and have trekked the area multiple of times depending on the group size, the main guide will be accompanied by assistant guides.
We will also have a team of porters to carry your main gag. We provide 1 porter for 2 members, 15 kg allowance for each member.
COMMUNICATION
Communication during Everest Three Passes Trek is not challenging but there are certain things to be considered. For using Internet/Wi-Fi service is available in lower altitudes. You have to pay extra charge for this service about $ 5 (per stay) up to Namche Bazar though you can’t be really sure about signal strength. Beyond Namche Bazar, teahouses normally don’t have Wi-Fi facilities. A better option is to use Everest Link network which works throughout the region. It has better connectivity and faster speed. You can buy the data package at approximately $ 10 (10 GB) and $ 20 (20 GB) valid for 30 days. You can also use local service provider (both for internet and mobile network) but they don’t work properly in some places as you go higher. If it is crucial for you to keep in contact with your family or others, we can provide you a mobile satellite phone (rental charge on request).
FLIGHT / LAND TRANSFERS
The starting and ending point of Everest Three Passes Trek is Lukla, which is connected by a 30 min flight from Kathmandu (or 15 min flight from Ramechhap). We will arrange flight and airport pick up and drop transfers as per the itinerary.
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING
During Everest Three Passes Trek, your main luggage will be carried by porter. Please keep your luggage as light as possible around 12 kg to 15 kg for flight safety and porter welfare as per IPPG standard. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. You can leave your valuable items at your hotel in Kathmandu while trekking. Many hotels have a locker system and provide a deposit slip for the valuables kept under the hotel’s safekeeping.
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
A typical day while trekking in Nepal consists of about 6 – 8 hours of activity. Each morning after packing our bags and having a good breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. After walking for 3 – 4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day’s adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.
TREKKING GEARS AND EQUIPMENT
You will need walking boots, sleeping bag (4 seasons/-20 0C rated), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack. Comprehensive list of equipment will be provided once you book your trip. It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money buying extra equipment and clothing before your trip. Majority of these gears can be bought or hired at reasonable rates in Kathmandu.
GEARS AVAILABLE IN KATHMANDU
There are numerous suppliers of trekking gears in Kathmandu supplying genuine branded items or imitations depending on your choice and price. You can get anything from down jackets and sleeping bags to socks or thermal wears that you need for your trek.
EQUIPMENT PROVIDED BY COMPANY
We provide company duffle bag (80 L) to use on the trek. You can store your bag in your hotel and use it after the trek.
TREK SECURITY
Security of our clients is our foremost priority. All our guides are licensed by Nepal Government. Our guides and support crew are carefully chosen for your trips. They will ensure your safety and security throughout your trip. During your trek, you will be sleeping in local teahouses. You have to take precautions yourself at all times. Never leave your baggage unattended and keep your lodge room locked when you go out.
MEETING AND GREETING AT AIRPORT
You need to pass on your International flight details to us for a “meeting and greeting” service at airport. You just pass the customs desk and come out of the terminal building where you will see someone standing with a placard with either ‘Explore Himalaya’ or your name written on it. Our airport representative or tour officer will greet you and welcome you with a garland and escort you to your hotel.
TREK DURATION
We ensure liability as indicated in itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay for hotels/services incurred in Kathmandu or elsewhere in such cases.
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO
The best seasons for trekking in Nepal are autumn (from mid-September till November end) and spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher every day. The nights are cold (between -10 0C to 5 0C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10 0C to 20 0C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon and winter is not recommended, as the visibility during monsoon is limited, upper parts and high passes could be covered with snow in winter.
March, April, October and November are the most favored months. Please choose the date that is convenient for you.
ITINERARY CHANGES
The itinerary for this trek is a standard itinerary. Depending on the prevailing situation while on trek, you can modify it to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary. You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative similar to your original.
HEALTH ISSUES AND VACCINATIONS
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio. The main health consideration during the trek is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’ (actazolamide). You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them in Kathmandu. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and handle the low oxygen rate.
If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for trekking in high altitude areas before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions.
FIRST AID KIT
We supply a medical bag with standard medicines prescribed by trekking doctors and a user’s manual. Since our staffs/guides are not qualified for suggesting medications to western clients, we would request you to use the medicines upon your own risk. It is safer and more reliable if you have your own medicine kit and not depend on what we have.
VISA
All visitors except the Indian nationals must hold passport and valid visa. Visa can be obtained at the Nepalese diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. You can also get “On Arrival Visa” at entry points. For doing Everest Three Passes Trek, you can come with a 30 days visa which costs US $ 50. You should have a passport size photo to get it at airport upon arrival. Some countries’ nationals need to get visa prior their arrival.
JOIN A GROUP OR PRIVATE TRIP
Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trek, please check our “Fixed Departures” link for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families and colleagues, you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people (minimum 1 and maximum 20 at a time).
If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list, we are ready to tailor your trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to meet your needs.
RESCUE / EVACUATIONS
We take your safety and security very seriously, and make sure that nothing untoward happen to you. However, if anything serious like sickness or a casualty occurs, we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. As you are responsible for all the expenses incurred in evacuation, please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it.
INSURANCE
Before joining this trip, we recommend you take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation during high-altitude trekking, specifically up to Everest Base Camp and Everest Three Passes. Our staff will collect your insurance details before you leave for the trek.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
We are among the few companies in Nepal to receive Travelife Certificate Award for our long-term efforts in sustainable practices.
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions during Everest treks are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. All our porters carry less than 30 kg and underage porters are strictly prohibited in our operations. We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group,
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Explore Himalaya, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible. As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use LPG gas or kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We don’t use plastic bottles. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fueled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strewn with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. Our staff carry garbage bag with them all the time and collect our garbage and other litters they find on trail and dispose them on the designated area. We also volunteer to bring garbage down to Lukla while returning back. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
Explore Himalaya works with the motto ‘Development through Tourism’. Keeping in line with this motto, Explore Himalaya Community Service Project (EHCSP) has been conceived to empower underprivileged, marginalized, poor and minority segments of Nepal.
Since its inception, EHCSP has been incessantly facilitating and advocating for school education, health, community development, forest conservation, agro practices and culture preservation. A certain amount of your trip money goes to these projects. For more details on our CSR initiatives, please visit the COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT.
SAGARMATHA NATIONAL PARK
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the iconic Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and over 118 bird species, such as the Impeyan pheasant and snow cock.
The Everest or Khumbu region lies in the eastern part of Nepal. Inhabited by the mountain people who have lived in harmony with their surroundings for hundreds of years, the Khumbu region has still retained its age-old practices. The region has some of the world’s tallest peaks including Everest (8848.86 m/29031.69 ft). This region, along with Annapurna region, is ranked as one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. The villages and places lying in this region are situated above 2000 m/6562 ft. Solu region at the south includes villages like Junbesi, Phaplu and Chiwong. Pharak is situated between Solu and Khumbu. Khumbu includes villages named Namche, Thame, Khumjung, Lobuche, Pangboche, Tengboche, etc. The major mountains are Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Khantega, Mera Peak, Imja Tse (Island Peak), Lintren, Cholatse, Lobuche, etc.
Sagarmatha National Park is the highest national park in the world. It was formally opened to public in July 19, 1976. The park covers an area of 1,148 sq km. It rises from its lowest point of 2845 m (9335 ft) at Jorsalle to 8848.86 m (29031.69 ft) up to the summit of Everest. The park’s area is very rugged and steep, with its terrain cut by deep rivers and glaciers. It includes three peaks higher than 8000 m – Mt. Everest (8848.86 m/29031.69 ft), Lhotse (8516 m/27940 ft) and Cho Oyu (8201 m/26906 ft). In 1979 the park was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park’s visitor centre is located at a hill in Namche Bazar, the fabled town of Everest trekking. The park’s southern entrance is a few hundred metres north of Monjo at 2835 m/9301 ft. Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC), funded by the World Wildlife Fund and the Himalayan Trust, was established in 1991 to help preserve Everest’s environment. More than 118 species of birds such as the Impeyan pheasant and snow cock and more than twenty species of butterflies have made this park their home. Musk deer, wild yak, red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan thars, deer, langur monkeys, hares, mountain foxes, martens, and Himalayan wolves are found in the park.
The climate you experience during the Everest Base Camp Trek can be divided into four climate zones owing to the gradual rise in altitude. The climatic zones include a forested lower zone, a zone of alpine scrub, the upper alpine zone which includes upper limit of vegetation growth, and the Arctic zone where no plants can grow. The types of plants and animals that are found depend on the altitude. In the lower forested zone, birch, juniper, blue pines, firs, bamboo and rhododendron are found. All vegetation that is found above this zone is shrubs. As the altitude increases, plant life is restricted to lichens and mosses. At an elevation of 5,750m begins the permanent snow line in the Himalayas. From this point there is no sign of greenery or vegetation. A common animal sighted in the higher reaches is the hairy animal yak. Dzokyo (Jopkyo) a sterile male crossbreed between a yak and a cow is used to transport goods along the trail. Red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, wild yak, and Himalayan black bear are some of the exotic animals that are found in this region. A variety of birds can be sighted in the lower regions.
Everest Base Camp is the most popular destination for trekkers in Nepal. Its popularity has grown since the first expedition to the Nepali side of Everest in the 1950s. One can do the base camp trek the old way, by beginning the trek from Jiri. From Jiri it takes around nine days to reach Namche. On the way you will come across Rai settlements. The other (quicker) alternative is to take a flight to Lukla and to begin the trek from there. The trek follows the Dudh Koshi valley route with an ascent up to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazar. From Namche Bazar, you traverse along a high path from where you have the first good view of Everest. You head towards Tengboche Monastery located on top of a mountain ridge and then descend Imja Khola and continue to the villages of Pangboche and Pheriche. After that you arrive at the Khumbu Glacier. The trek through the glacier takes you first to Lobuche and then to Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, you continue to reach your destination, the base camp at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall. You can also climb up to Kala Patthar for even more spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest’s southwest face. Beside Everest Base Camp Trek, there are also other longer and shorter Everest trekking routes popular among trekkers around the world.
Mt. Everest (Sagarmatha)
Rising to the height of 8848.86 m (29031.69 ft), the world’s highest mountain that was named in 1865 after Sir George Everest. The mountain got its Nepali name Sagarmatha during 1960s, when the Government of Nepal gave the mountain the official Nepali name. In Sanskrit Sagarmatha means “Head of the Sky”. The Tibetan name for Mount Everest is Chomolungma or Qomolangma, which means “Goddess Mother of the Snows”. Climbers wishing to scale the peak have to obtain an expensive permit from the Nepal Government. More information on royalty can be found at https://www.tourismdepartment.gov.np/mountaineering-royalty. Everest Base Camp, which serves as a resting area and base of operations for climbers organizing their attempts for the summit, is located at the Khumbu glacier at an elevation of 5364 m (17598 ft). It receives an average of 450 mm (18 in) of precipitation a year. The climate of Mount Everest is extreme. In July, the warmest month, the average summit temperature is -19 °C (-2 °F).
George Mallory, a famous British adventurer, was one of the first climbers to attempt Everest. When he was asked why he wanted to climb Everest, he replied “Because it is there” – the line has become immortal in the history of Everest expedition. After two unsuccessful attempts, in 1924 he again tried to climb the peak with Andrew Irvine. They started on June 8, 1924 to scale the summit via the North Col route and never returned. The Mallory and Irvine Research Expedition later discovered their bodies near the old Chinese Camp in 1999. Edmund Hillary, a New Zealander and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa from Nepal were the first two climbers to set foot on the summit of Mt. Everest. They reached the summit at 11:30 a.m. on May 29, 1953 by climbing through the South Col Route. More than 7500 climbers have scaled the highest mountain since then. Also there have been more than 300 deaths on the mountain where conditions are so difficult that most corpses have been left where they fell. Some of them are visible from the standard climbing routes.
Lhotse
Lhotse (8516 m/27940 ft) is the fourth highest mountain in the world. It lies south of Mt. Everest. Two Swiss climbers F. Luchsinger and E. Reiss first climbed it in 1956 from the West face. Czech expedition led by Ivan Galfy scaled it via the South face in 1984. An impressive ring of three peaks makes up the Lhotse massif: Lhotse East or Middle, Lhotse and Lhotse Shar. The South Face of Lhotse is one of the largest mountain faces in the world.
Cho Oyu
Cho Oyu (8201 m/26906 ft) the sixth highest mountain in the world, has gained popularity among climbers just recently. The mountain sits on both sides of the border of Nepal and Tibet, about 30 km. west of Mount Everest. Cho Oyu in Tibetan means “the turquoise goddess.” The south face of Cho Oyu, facing Nepal, is quite steep and difficult, and is rarely climbed. The north side, accessed from Tibet, is more moderate, and there is a relatively safe route to the summit. In the autumn of 1954, an Austrian team made the first ascent via this route.
Nuptse
Nuptse (7855 m/25771 ft) lies southwest of Mt. Everest. It is situated in the Khumbu Himal. From the Tengboche Monastery, one of the iconic monasteries in Everest trek, Nuptse appears as a massive wall guarding the approach to Everest. The name Nup-tse in Tibetan means west peak. The main ridge, which is separated from Lhotse by a 7556 m (24790 ft) high saddle, is crowned by seven peaks and goes west-northwest until its steep west-face drops down more than 2300 m to the Khumbu-glacier. Nuptse was first climbed on May 16, 1961, by Dennis Davis and Tashi Sherpa via the North Ridge during a British expedition led by Joe Walmsley.
Pumori
Pumori (7161 m/23494 ft) is just 8 km away from the world’s highest peak Mt. Everest. The magnificent view of the peak dominates the trail as you near Everest Base Camp. The ascent to this peak is described as a classic climb in the 7000 m (22966 ft) peak category. In Tibetan, ‘Pumo’ means girl and ‘Ri’, mountain. George Mallory, the famous English climber who lost his life trying to ascend Everest in 1924, named the peak. The German climber Gerhard Lenser was the first to reach the summit of Pumori in May 17, 1962. Pumori is a popular climbing peak.
Ama Dablam
Ama Dablam (6814 m/22356 ft) which means ‘mother’s necklace’, in Sherpa language is considered to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. It looks like a woman with outstretched arms or a woman wearing a long necklace. The mountain dominates the whole Everest Base Camp trek. Ama Dablam lies alongside Everest in the heart of the Khumbu Valley. Mt Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu and Mt. Everest can be seen at close quarters from Ama Dablam. Ama Dablam is considered to be a technical mountain to climb. Due to its towering ridges and steep faces, Ama Dablam is often called the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas.” Ama Dablam was first summited on March 13, 1961, by Mike Gill (New Zealand), Barry Bishop (USA), Mike Ward (UK), and Wally Romanes (New Zealand), who reached the peak via the Southwest Ridge.
Mera Peak
Mera Peak (6470 m/21227 ft) is the highest of Nepal’s trekking peaks. By its standard route, it is also the highest peak in Nepal that can be climbed without prior mountaineering experience. J.O.M. Roberts and Sen Tenzing first climbed it on 20 May 1953, from the standard route at Mera La. The mountain lies to the south of Everest, dominating the watershed between the wild and beautiful valleys of the Hinku and Hongu.
Imja Tse (Island Peak)
Imja Tse (6165 m/20226 ft) also known as Island Peak is another notable peak in Khumbu region. The peak was named Island Peak in 1953 by members of the British Mount Everest expedition because it appears as an island in a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche. In 1983, the peak was officially renamed Imja Tse, but Island Peak remains the more popular name. It is actually an extension of the ridge descending from the southern end of Lhotse Shar (8400 m/27559 ft). The main land forms a semicircle of cliffs that rise to the north of the summits of Nuptse, Lhotse, Middle Peak and Lhotse Shar. Cho Oyu and Makalu lie to the east of the Island Peak. Baruntse, Amphu and Ama Dablam lie to the south. A British group as preparation for climbing Mt. Everest first climbed the peak in 1953.
Lobuje
Lobuje (also spelled Lobuche) is a known as Lhauche among the locals. Lobuche, is a mountain in Nepal located near the Khumbu Glacier and the settlement of Lobuche. It has two main peaks: Lobuche East (6090 m/19980 ft) and Lobuche West (6135 m/20128 ft). Lobuche East is classified as a “trekking peak” and Lobuche West as an “expedition peak.” As the easier of the two, Lobuche East is climbed more frequently. A long, deeply notched ridge separates the two peaks, and the challenging terrain makes it impossible to approach Lobuche West from the East peak. The first recorded ascent of Lobuche East was made by Laurence Nielson and Ang Gyalzen Sherpa on April 25, 1984, while Lobuche West was first climbed in 1955 via the South Shoulder.
Jiri
Early expeditions to climb Everest from the Nepali side started from Jiri. Before the airstrip at Lukla came into existence, all the trekking and climbing expeditions to the Everest region started from Jiri. Starting from Jiri, the route passes through the Sherpa villages of the Solukhumbu, many of them having beautiful Buddhist monasteries.
Lukla
Lukla, a popular town in Khumbu, boasts of the region’s sole commercial airport. Lying at a height of 2840 m (9318 ft), the town is known as the gateway of Everest treks as most trekkers usually begin and end their Everest adventure in Lukla. The airport was built in 1964 by Sir Edmund Hillary as part of his project in Khumbu region during the early 60s to transport the supplies for the Himalayan Trust projects in the Khumbu region. Today, somewhere between 90-95% of the foreign nationals who reach Lukla, arrive by a half hour flight from Kathmandu.
Namche Bazar
Namche Bazar is known as the Sherpa capital. It is a famous center for everyone doing Everest trekking. Namche is actually a town lying at the junction of the Dudh Koshi and a valley that leads to the frontier pass of Nangpa La. It is tucked away in a niche at a height of 3440 m (11286 ft). W. H. Tilman and C. Houston were the first westerners to enter it in 1950 and many more have come since then. Facilities like a bank, a post office, hotels and shops where one can purchase climbing equipment as well as canned food have sprung up over the years. Namche Bazar is the major regional trading center. Its Saturday market or Haat is the place where most of the trading takes place. The headquarters of the Sagarmatha National Park is located in Namche Bazar.
Tengboche
Tengboche (3860m/12664 ft) is famous for Tengboche Gumba (monastery). It is one of the most important centers of Buddhism in the region. The gumba is the largest one you see during your Everest Base Camp trek. It was first built in 1923. Destroyed by a fire in 1989, it was rebuilt later on partly with foreign aid. From Tengboche, one gets a panoramic view of Kwangde, Tawoche, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Amadablam, Khangtega, and Thamserku.
Pangboche
Buddhism is believed to have been introduced in the Khumbu region towards the end of the 17th century by Lama Sange Dorjee. According to the legend, he flew over the Himalayas and landed on a rock at Pangboche and Tengboche, leaving his footprints embedded on the stone. He is believed to have been responsible for the founding of the first gumbas in the Khumbu region, at Pangboche and Thame. Pangboche (3930 m/12894 ft) is the highest year-round settlement in the valley. The Imja Khola, coming from the right, joins the Dudh Koshi River a little above the village. The gumba (monastery) in Pangboche is thought to be one of the oldest in the Khumbu region.
Khumjung
Khumjung (3780 m/12402 ft), a village lying west of Tengboche, is famous for the gumba where the skull of a supposed Yeti, the Abominable Snowman, is preserved under the supervision of the head Lama. The skull seems more like the outer skin of Himalayan Brown Bear, and this is proved by the report of a scientific exploratory expedition conducted by Sir Edmund Hillary, a copy of which is kept in the gumba.
Pheriche
Pheriche is located at an altitude of 4240 m (13911 ft). It lies on a level patch. Apart from the basic facilities available here, there is a medical-aid post maintained by the Himalayan Rescue Association of the Tokyo Medical College with Japanese doctors in attendance. Among other facilities, there is an air compression chamber installed for assisting victims of high altitude sickness.
Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp (EBC) is the iconic starting point for those venturing to the summit of Mt. Everest. It is also a thrilling destination in its own right. Situated at 5,364 m (17598 ft) in Khumbu region, EBC offers an unparalleled experience of the Himalayas, attracting trekkers from around the globe eager to witness the grandeur of the world’s highest mountain up close. Everest Base Camp is not a traditional base camp with luxurious amenities but rather a vibrant collection of tents and temporary lodges that accommodate climbers. The site itself offers a dramatic view of the Khumbu Icefall and the towering peaks surrounding Everest. The surrounding peaks and the sprawling Khumbu Glacier create a breathtaking and otherworldly landscape.
Kala Patthar
Kala Patthar, meaning ‘black rock’, is a notable feature on the south ridge of Pumori in the Khumbu region, situated above Gorak Shep. Although it is not a true mountain, with a prominence of just 10 m (33 ft), it is a popular trekking destination because it provides the closest and most accessible views of Mount Everest. From Kala Patthar, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Nuptse, and Changtse, as well as partial views of Lhotse’s northern face and summit. Other 6000-meter peaks visible from Kala Patthar include Ama Dablam, Chumbu, Thamserku, Kangtega, and Lobuche. Kala Patthar is the highest altitude most trekkers will reach during Everest Base Camp trek.
Kongma La
Kongma La is a high mountain pass located in the Everest region of Nepal, situated at an elevation of approximately 5535 m (18159 ft). It is one of the three major passes on the Everest Three Passes trek, the other two being Cho La and Renjo La. Kongma La offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. The pass is known for its challenging terrain, often covered in snow and ice, making it a demanding but rewarding crossing for trekkers. Reaching Kongma La is a significant accomplishment for those on the trek, providing a unique perspective of the Himalayan landscape and a sense of achievement. From Kongma La you’re treated to an awe-inspiring panorama of the Himalayas. The towering Mount Everest (8848.86 m / 29031.69 ft) dominates the view, its majestic peak seemingly within reach. Close by, Lhotse (8516 m/27940 ft) complements the scene with its impressive height. To the east, Makalu (8463 m / 27766 ft) presents its distinctive pyramid shape against the skyline. The rugged ridges of Nuptse (7855 m / 25771 ft) add to the dramatic effect. Below, the Khumbu Glacier stretches out, its icy expanse contributing to the rugged beauty. Surrounding you is a multitude of other Himalayan peaks, creating a breathtaking and expansive view that captures the grandeur of this high-altitude landscape.
Cho La
Cho La, also known as Nire, Chhugyuma, is a high mountain pass in the Everest region of Nepal, situated at an altitude of approximately 5368 m (17612 ft). It serves as a crucial crossing point on the trek between the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes, connecting the Khumbu Valley with the Gokyo Valley. Trekking over Cho La offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, as well as the serene Gokyo Lakes. The pass is known for its challenging conditions, including snow and ice, making it a demanding but rewarding experience for trekkers. Crossing Cho La is a highlight of the trek, providing both a physical challenge and a chance to experience the dramatic beauty of the Himalayas. Once you inch yourselves to the top of Cho La, the second of the three Everest high passes, you will be welcomed by the splendid mountain vistas. From Cho La the views are truly remarkable. To the northwest, you can see Mount Cho Oyu (8201 m / 26906 ft), its vast and snow-covered slopes creating a majestic presence. Eastward, the rugged ridges of Nuptse (7855 m / 25771 ft) add a dramatic and imposing element to the landscape. Mount Everest (8848.86 m /29031.69 ft) is visible, offering awe-inspiring sight. Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft), also contributes to the panoramic view. Below, the Khumbu Glacier stretches out, adding to the rugged beauty of the high-altitude scenery.
Gokyo Ri
Gokyo Ri is a prominent summit located in the Everest region of Nepal, standing at an altitude of approximately 5357 m (17575 ft). It is a popular trekking peak for those exploring the Gokyo Valley, offering one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region. From the summit, trekkers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks. The climb to Gokyo Ri is a relatively short but steep ascent, making it a rewarding challenge for trekkers seeking to experience stunning Himalayan vistas without the need for technical climbing skills. The views from Gokyo Ri are often described as some of the most magnificent in the Everest region, providing a memorable highlight of the Gokyo trek.From Gokyo Ri the view encompasses a stunning array of Himalayan peaks and landscapes. To the snortheast, you’ll see Mount Everest (8848.86 / 29031.69 ft) dominating the horizon with its towering presence. Easthward, the dramatic face of Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft) adds to the awe-inspiring scenery. Looking east, the pyramid shaped summit of Makalu (8463 m / 27766 ft) stands out prominently. To the north, Cho Oyu (8201 m / 26906 ft) reveals its massive snow-covered slopes. Below Gokyo Ri, the vast Ngozumba Glacier stretches out, creating a striking glacial landscape. The vibrant turquoise Gokyo Lakes, nestled in the valley directly beneath, contrast beautifully with the surrounding snow and rocky terrain, completing this breathtaking panorama.
Renjo La
Renjo La is a high mountain pass situated in the Everest region of Nepal, at an elevation of approximately 5360 m (17585 ft). It is a key point on the classic trek connecting the Everest Three Passes Trek with the Gokyo Lakes. The pass is renowned for its stunning panoramic views, including spectacular vistas of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Cho Oyu range. Renjo La is less traversed compared to other passes in the region, adding to its allure. The trek over Renjo La is known for its rugged terrain and challenging conditions, making it a rewarding experience for those seeking a unique and picturesque adventure in the Himalayas.
Thame
Thame Village is a picturesque settlement nestled in the Everest region of Nepal, situated at an altitude of about 3800 m (12467 ft). Known for its traditional Tibetan architecture and serene atmosphere, Thame offers a glimpse into the rich Sherpa culture and way of life. The village is strategically located along the ancient trade route between Tibet and Nepal, making it a historically significant site. Thame is also a popular stop for trekkers heading to Everest Three Passes or Everest Base Camp or the Gokyo Lakes, as it provides a more tranquil alternative to the busier trekking routes. The village is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, with views of peaks like Thamserku and the neighboring mountains adding to its charm. Thame is renowned for its friendly locals, ancient monasteries, and as the birthplace of several notable Sherpa climbers, including Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, Appa Sherpa, who has the world record of summiting Everest 21 times, and Kami Rita Sherpa who climbed the mountain 30 times (still counting).
Sherpas live in the upper regions of Solu Khumbu, the area that largely fall in Everest trekking trail. They emigrated from Tibet about 600 years ago. In the past they were traders and porters, carrying butter, meat, rice, sugar, and dye from India; and wool, jewelry, salt, Chinese silk and porcelain from Tibet and beyond. The closure of the border between India and China undermined their economy. Fortunately, with the mountaineering expeditions and trekkers, the Sherpa’s found their load carrying skills, both on normal treks and high altitudes in great demand. Now, these able bodied, hardy and fearless Sherpa are world class climbers known for their amazing climbing prowess. They are such an inseparable part of mountaineering and trekking in Nepal that any climbers and trekkers can rarely imagine doing a Himalayan adventure without their support.
At the lower elevations lives the Kiranti Rai. The villages of Jubing, Kharikhola, Okhaldhunga, are inhabited by the Rais. Of mongoloid stock, they speak their own dialect. Reference of their fighting spirit is made in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The people from this group have supplied recruits to Gurkha regiments both in the British as well as Indian armies. The Rais follow a religion that is partly animistic with some Hindu influence. They revere their ancestors by observing Kul or Pitri puja every year. The Jirels live in the area around Jiri. They are mongoloid and follow Buddhism.
Loshar
Lhosar is celebrated in the month of February by the Sherpas. ‘Lhosar’ means New Year in Tibetan language. Apart from the Sherpas and Tibetans, the Gurungs and Tamangs also celebrate Lhosar. Buddhist monks offer prayers for good health and prosperity at monasteries. People exchange various goods and gifts among them. Families organize feasts and perform dances.
Dumje
Dumje is celebrated to mark the birthday of Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). The celebration takes place in June and lasts for six days. It is celebrated in a grand way in the villages of Namche, Thame and Khumjung, all important stopovers during Everest trekking.
Mani Rimdu
Mani Rimdu is a festival that celebrates the victory of Buddhism over the ancient animistic religion of Bon. This festival is celebrated in the monasteries of Tengboche, Chiwang and Thame. At Tengboche, the most iconic monastery of the Everest trek, the celebration takes place during full moon of November – December. At Thame, Mani Rimdu is celebrated during full moon in May. Chiwang Gompa generally celebrates this festival during autumn. The Lamas wear elaborate brocade gowns and masks while performing. Through the dances, symbolic demons are conquered, dispelled, or converted to Dharma Protectors as positive forces clash with those of chaos. The dances convey Buddhist teaching on many levels from the simplest to the most profound, for those who do not have the opportunity to study and meditate extensively. It gives an opportunity to the Sherpas to gather and celebrate together with the monks.
Sakela (Chandi Dance)
Sakela (Chandi Dance) is a harvest festival celebrated by the Rai community. The harvest ceremony involves the worship of mother earth, called ‘Bhumi-Puja’. The festival is celebrated twice a year, once in spring before planting begins and once during autumn before harvesting. Ubhauli is celebrated during the spring season on Baishakh Purnima (full moon). In the autumn season on Mangsir Purnima, Udhauli is celebrated. The spring worship is done to propitiate mother earth for a good harvest and the rain god to bless the earth with enough rain. The festival is celebrated with more fervor in the remote hills. The Rai villagers celebrate it with priests (dhami) who perform rituals to worship their ancestors. The elders of the community begin the dance with a puja. Later on everybody participate in the dance forming a circle by holding each other’s hands. With drumbeats, they begin dancing at a slow pace but moves faster later with the drumbeats. The dance steps and hand gestures imitate the sowing and harvesting of crops. The festival also provides an opportunity for the Rai people to socialize.
Your booking of this Everest Three Passes Trek will be confirmed by email once we receive your deposit of $500 and the signed copy of booking form and contract. The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 months prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.
If you cancel your booking, the following scale of charges will apply: • 2 months before departure – Loss of deposit (US$ 500) • 29 days to 2 months before departure – 30% of total trip cost • 10 to 28 days before departure – 60% of total trip cost • Less than 10 days before departure – 100% of total trip cost
In addition to your Everest Three Passes Trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan etc. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet or Bhutan, whichever seems more appealing to you.
It is fundamental to acknowledge that Everest Three Passes Trek is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken only as a guideline. We cannot be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties etc. In such cases, Explore Himalaya shall provide suitable alternatives which will be decided upon mutual agreement. If you have any questions regarding this trip, please feel free to contact us at enquiry@explorehimalaya.com or directly by phone: +977-1-4518100. We answer all enquiries within 24 hours.
When choosing the right operator for the Everest Three Passes Trek or the Everest base camp and three passes trek, experience, safety, and responsibility matter most. Explore Himalaya has proudly earned its reputation as the Everest Base Camp Trek: Best Company through 27+ years of running Everest Expeditions Nepal since 1997. Our government-licensed guides are true Khumbu experts — many have led hundreds of high-pass expeditions and know every ridge, glacier, and tea house intimately.
We practice responsible trekking at the highest level: full IPPG porter standards, zero single-use plastic policy, and eco-friendly operations that minimize our footprint in Sagarmatha National Park. As one of the first Nepali companies to receive the Travelife certification for sustainable tourism, we are audited against dozens of criteria for environmental and social responsibility.
Our pricing is completely transparent with no hidden costs. Every package includes 24/7 support from our Kathmandu office, comprehensive insurance coordination, and emergency helicopter evacuation assistance when needed. You can choose fixed-group departures or fully private treks with flexible dates.
Don’t just take our word for it. As one recent trekker shared: “I had an incredible experience trekking to Everest Base Camp with Explore Himalaya. Our guides were absolutely amazing… I highly recommend Explore Himalaya for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayas.” – Andrea C
Hundreds more 5-star reviews on our website and TripAdvisor echo the same sentiment.
Choose Explore Himalaya and trek Everest Base Camp, Nepal with complete confidence. Visit us to read real stories and book your Everest Three Passes Trek today.
Many trekkers finish the Everest Three Passes Trek and still crave more Himalayan adventure. Explore Himalaya offers seamless extensions and alternative packages that build on the same route, letting you add peak climbing, shorten the experience, or upgrade your return.
Popular options include:
All extensions share the same expert guides and logistics. Contact us to customize your perfect Himalayan journey.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a challenging 22-day circular adventure that crosses three legendary high passes (Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La) while visiting Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Kala Patthar. Unlike the regular EBC trek, which follows a simple out-and-back route, this trek creates a complete loop through four valleys, giving you far more variety, new scenery every day, and a true sense of exploration without retracing your steps.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a 22-day package, including two nights in Kathmandu, the flight to Lukla, the full trekking circuit, and return. This duration allows proper acclimatization and time to enjoy all the highlights without rushing.
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is rated Grade 4 (Difficult). It involves 6–8 hours of daily walking, steep ascents over icy passes above 5,300 m, and several consecutive demanding days at high altitude. It requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience is recommended.
The three passes are Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,368 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m). Each offers unique challenges and spectacular 360-degree views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
Yes, prior trekking experience is strongly recommended. This trek is ideal for those who have already completed the Everest Base Camp Trek or similar high-altitude journeys, as it demands solid fitness and acclimatization skills. No technical climbing is required.
The best time is spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms and warmer trails, or autumn (October–November) for the clearest skies and sharpest mountain views. These seasons provide stable weather and safe pass crossings; winter and monsoon are not recommended.
You need three permits: TIMS Card, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. Explore Himalaya arranges all permits in advance so you can focus on trekking.
The trek begins with a thrilling 30–40 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. During peak seasons, some flights depart from Ramechhap (Manthali) after a 4–5 hour drive from Kathmandu to avoid congestion.
Cho la pass Nepal (5,368 m) connects the Khumbu Valley to the Gokyo Valley and features the most technical section: an icy glacier crossing where micro spikes are essential. The ascent and steep rocky descent make it the most demanding of the three passes.
The renjo la pass trek (5,360 m) is the most scenic and least crowded, offering panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, the Rolwaling range, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes from the summit. It provides a peaceful, meditative finale as you descend into the remote Bhote Koshi Valley.
Yes, the trek includes a full visit to Mount Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) after crossing Kongma La. After Lobuche, you’ll reach the base camp and you spend the night in Gorak Shep.
The highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,550 m, where you enjoy a spectacular sunrise over Everest. This viewpoint is higher than any of the three passes.
Yes, from Kala Patthar you get one of the clearest and closest views of Mount Everest and the entire Khumbu Glacier. Mount Everest Base Camp itself is clearly visible in the valley below, making the sunrise even more rewarding.
The Everest Three Passes Trek Map follows a counterclockwise direction: you cross Kongma La first, then Cho La, and finish with Renjo La. This loop ensures you never retrace steps (except Lobuche-EBC-Lobuche) and experience every valley fully.
When combined with the three passes, the EBC trekking route becomes a full circular loop instead of the usual out-and-back path. You visit Gokyo Lakes and cross three high passes while still reaching Everest Base Camp, creating a far more diverse and complete adventure.
Essential gear includes a 4-season sleeping bag, waterproof jacket, down jacket, sturdy trekking boots, micro spikes for Cho La, trekking poles, sunscreen, and a daypack. Explore Himalaya provides a detailed gear list after booking; most items can be hired or bought in Kathmandu’s Thamel.
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk above 5,000 m on the Everest High Pass Trek. The itinerary includes three vital acclimatization days (Namche, Dingboche and Gokyo), and staying hydrated while walking slowly helps. Trekkers also use Diamox (acetazolamide) after consulting their doctor.
You stay in comfortable tea house/lodges along the entire route with twin sharing or private rooms where available (upon request). The package also includes hotel accommodation in Kathmandu for the arrival (2 nights) and departure nights (one night).
Explore Himalaya is the Everest Base Camp Trek: Best Company with 27+ years of experience in Everest Expeditions Nepal, government-licensed guides, Travelife-certified sustainable practices, and transparent pricing. We provide 24/7 support, full insurance coordination, and have hundreds of 5-star reviews from happy trekkers.
Yes, we offer fully customizable private group departures with flexible dates and optional extensions (such as Island Peak or Lobuche Peak climbing). Just let us know your preferences and we will tailor the perfect itinerary.
The sceneries and the landscapes during High Passes Trek where we also had an opportunity to meet kind local people and the wildlife activities at Chitwan are the best memories of this Holiday. The service of Explore Himalaya was very good; the staffs were very helpful, guide was excellent and the hotels we stayed in were great…
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