Everest Three Pass Trek For 18 Days

Tour Info

trip code

EN-013

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

5,555m

Duration

18 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Easy

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December

Overview

The Everest Three Pass Trek is an adventurous journey. This trek crosses through three high mountain passes, which give you panoramic views of the Everest area from many different spots. During this trek, you can witness glaciers, lakes, and valleys. You also get to visit the key places like Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Lake.  The trek is a bit challenging, the path is clear, and the guesthouses are dependable. If you want a trek with adventure along with amazing mountain sights, this one is suitable for you.

Details

This Everest Three Pass trek provides a variety of landscapes of the Everest region, letting you cross through three big passes, Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, which let you view the peaks from many different sides, unlike shorter treks. The landscapes along the trek include forests, glaciers, lakes, rocky hills, and vast valleys. This trek is a bit more suitable for trekkers seeking a complete route across the Everest region.This trek also lets you see the famous sites in the Himalayas, such as Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and blue Gokyo Lake. The local Sherpa culture adds an aspect of local culture to the journey. Villages like Namche and Tengboche give you a clear view of the region’s lifestyle and traditions. While this trek is difficult, the routes are clear, the guesthouses are reliable, and the built-in rest stops for altitude adjustment make the climb feel easier to handle.

In short, this journey offers a real challenge, culture, and the world's best mountain views all in a single trip.

Highlights

  • Explore the heart of the Everest region and trek through its remote villages.

  • Fly to Lukla and start trekking. 

  • Walk through villages and pine and rhododendron forests.

  • Experience acclimatization hikes at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche for a safer ascent.

  • Cross three high passes, namely Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.

  • Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and admire panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

  • Hike Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for the best views of Everest.

  • Gokyo Lake is a peaceful place to be, and you can climb Gokyo Ri to see the Himalayas from there, too.

  • Experience Sherpa culture in areas like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Chhukung.

  • Head back to Kathmandu carrying memories of the world’s highest peaks.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and Pre-trek Preparation

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, one of our Ever Nepal Adventure representatives shall greet you and take you to your accommodation. Once you check into your hotel, you can have time to rest and recover from your journey. Later, can relax a little and then walk around nearby restaurants or shops. Later in the day, a briefing and equipment check by our crew.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (Kathmandu, the highest point during arrival and pre-trek activities)
  • Travel Distance: 6 to 8 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3star standard Hotel
  • Meal: Dinner

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

Early next morning, you get to explore the sights of the Valley of Kathmandu. This includes the visit to UNESCO heritage sites below:
Swayambhunath Stupa: This stupa on a hill contains ancient Buddhist architecture and a colony of monkeys.

  • Pashupatinath Temple: Cremation rituals take place along the Bagmati River in this Hindu temple complex.
  • Boudhanath Stupa: Monks perform daily rituals around this large stupa with surrounding monasteries.
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Temples, palace courtyards, and traditional Newar art are found here.
  • Patan Durbar Square: Museums and temples are located within this historic palace complex.
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square: Palaces, temples, and the Hanuman Dhoka Museum make up this former royal square. 

Each of these sites presents you with insights into Nepalese history, art, and culture. You then head back to your hotel to take a rest and get ready for the journey.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (Swayambhunath Stupa, the highest point while sightseeing in the valley)
  • Travel Distance: 25 kilometers (combined distance between all sightseeing sites)
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 8 hours (including visits and transit between sites)
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast

Day 03: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

The day starts with an early morning flight to Lukla from Kathmandu.  You can also take views of the Himalayan range while flying. After reaching Lukla, you begin your trek towards Phakding, which can take around three to four hours. Along the way, you can enjoy the views of mountains and forests as well. That day, we spent the night at Phakding.

  • Max Elevation:  2,840 meters (Lukla, the highest point between Kathmandu, Lukla, and Phakding)
  • Travel Distance: 8 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 30 to 35 minutes flight and 3 to 4 hours trekking
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

The day starts early as you trek to Namche Bazaar. This includes trekking through forests and the Sherpa village. You travel around 11 km on this day, and it takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. Along the way, you also cross the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge over Dudh Koshi and Botey Koshi. On the climb to Namche Bazaar(3,440m), you can observe the Sherpa market town. After reaching Namche Bazaar, you stop for an overnight at a local tea house.

  • Max Elevation: 3,440 meters (Namche Bazaar, the highest point between Phakding and Namche Bazaar)
  • Travel Distance: 11 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

On the fifth day, you take a short hike around the village or visit viewpoints nearby, helping your body to adjust and prepare for the higher passes ahead. On this day, you also get to see the Himalayan birds and yaks, as well as the Sherpa Market. The day is mostly dedicated to taking a rest and acclimatizing to the altitude. 

  •  Max Elevation: 3,880 meters (Syangboche Viewpoint, the highest point during the acclimatization hike around Namche Bazaar)
  • Travel Distance: 11 kilometers (round trip)
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 m)

From Namche Bazaar, after an early morning start, the route takes one through a forest of pine and rhododendron trees. This route spans approximately 10 km between Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, normally taking 5 to 6 hours. Several stops along the way offer views of the Himalayan peaks and landscapes. On the way, you also pass through a Buddhist monastery, offering panoramic views of Ama Dablam and Everest. Upon reaching Tengobche, an overnight stay follows.

  • Max Elevation: 3,870 meters (Tengboche, the highest point between Namche Bazaar and Tengboche)
  • Travel Distance: 10 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  •  Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  •  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m)

On this day, you begin your morning with views over ama Dablam, Everest, Lotse, and Nuptse before starting your trek. You continue your journey to Dingboche, which can take around 5 to 6 km of walking, approximately 9km. Along the way, you also get to pass through the highest permanent Sherpa settlement and trek along the valley that leads toward Island Peak and Chhukung. After reaching Dingboche, the day concludes with an overnight stay there.

  • Max Elevation: 4,360 meters (Dingboche, the highest point between Tengboche and Dingboche)
  • Travel Distance: 9 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 08: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche

You start early with a hike towards Nangkartshang viewpoint to enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Imja Valley. The hike towards Nangkartshang would be great for adjusting to the altitude. You also get to see a wide valley view and mountain surroundings. The day concludes with relaxing in the lodge, hydrating, and enjoying warm meals.

  • Max Elevation: 5,050 meters (Nangkartshang Viewpoint, the highest point during the acclimatization hike from Dingboche)
  • Travel Distance: 8 kilometers (round trip)
  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 09: Trek to Chhukung (4,750 m) and Climb Chhukung Ri (5,546 m)

On the ninth day, from Dingboche, you trek to Chhukung via open valleys and field-enclosing walls on a relatively easy trail. Then, after a little rest, you pursue a steep climb to Chhukung Ri for clear views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Baruntse, and the Imja Glacier. Later, you descend back to Chhukung for dinner and an overnight stay at a teahouse.

  • Max Elevation: 5,546 meters (Chhukung Ri, the highest point of the day)
  • Travel Distance: 7 kilometers (trek and climb combined)
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535 m)

You start your further journey from Chhukung early in the morning with a challenging climb to the Kongma La Pass at 5,535 m by passing through rugged and rocky areas and moraines. From the pass, wide views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Makalu, along with glaciers, can be seen. Taking a short rest, you then proceed to descend gradually to Lobuche by passing through ridges and memorials of climbers. Then you reach Lobuche at an altitude of 4,940 m to rest, have meals, and stay overnight there.

  • Max Elevation: 5,535 meters (Kongma La Pass, the highest point between Chhukung and Lobuche)
  • Travel Distance: 12 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,164 m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)

The journey resumes with an early departure from Lobuche. You follow the Khumbu Glacier path until you reach Gorak Shep (5,164 m). A diversion then leads you to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). You can see Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse from this area and also simultaneously absorb expansive vistas of glaciers and surrounding mountains, including Ama Dablam and Pumori. The route concludes back at Gorak Shep, where a satisfying dinner and accommodation await for the night.

  • Max Elevation: 5,364 meters (Everest Base Camp, the highest point of the day)
  • Travel Distance: 13 kilometers (round trip from Lobuche to EBC and back to Gorak Shep)
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m)

Following an early breakfast, you ascend to Kala Patthar to witness the sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. You then descend back to Gorak Shep, beginning the hike toward Dzongla (4,830 m) through the Khumbu Valley. While trekking towards Dzongl, you also get to view the glaciers, moraines, stone-walled villages, and prayer flags. On this day, you enjoy views of Imja Valley, Ama Dablam, and Cholatse. The day concludes with you arriving in Dzongla for rest, meals, and an overnight stay at Dzongla

  • Max Elevation: 5,545 meters (Kala Patthar, the highest point of the day)
  • Travel Distance: 12 km (from Gorak Shep via Kala Patthar to Dzongla)
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m) via Cho La Pass (5,367 m)

The morning starts from Dzongla across Cho La Pass (5,367 m), passing through rocky and icy terrain. Reaching the pass offers a wide view of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Furthermore, after reaching the pass, we then start a long, steady descent into the Gokyo Valley, moving past moraine deposits, ice segments, and glacial lakes. This day concludes with reaching Gokyo and having an overnight stay there.

  • Max Elevation: 5,367 meters (Cho La Pass, the highest point of the day)
  • Travel Distance: 13 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 8 to 9 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Acclimatization Day at Gokyo and Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)

The morning begins with a calm view of Gokyo Lake. On this day, you make a steep climb up to Gokyo Ri (5,357m). From the summit, you can get a clear view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, the Ngozumpa glaciers, and the entire Gokyo lakes. After enjoying the viewpoint and taking photos, you get back to Gokyo village for meals and rest. You spend the rest of the day acclimatizing, exploring the lake area, and experiencing local Sherpa life.

  •  Max Elevation: 5,357 meters (Gokyo Ri)
  • Travel Distance: 8 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  •  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Trek to Marlung via Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)

The early morning begins at Gokyo. This day involves a steady climb to Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), which is among the finest spots for viewing on the Three Passes trek. From here, you can see views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Gokyo Lakes, and Ngozumpa Glacier. You then trail downwards towards Thame Valley, with high-altitude environments, yaks grazing, and Sherpa villages. The day concludes in Marlung, where you settle in for warm meals, rest, and an overnight stay at a tea house.

  • Max Elevation: 5,360 meters (Renjo La Pass)
  • Travel Distance: 12 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Trek from Marlung to Namche Bazaar (3,438 m)

In the early morning, you start from Marlung and follow the trail down the Bhote Koshi Valley, an old Tibetan trade route. In this, you pass through Thame, one of the oldest Sherpa villages, and continue past mani walls, chortens, and prayer wheels. The trail then leads into pine and rhododendron forests. After crossing several suspension bridges, you arrive in Namche Bazaar. Upon your arrival in Namche Bazaar, you settle into a tea house for warm meals, rest, and a relaxing evening.

  • Max Elevation:
  • Travel Distance:
  • Travel Hours:
  •  Accommodation: Tea house
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800 m)

The trekking trail takes you ahead from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, with a downward slope covered with pine and rhododendron trees, and passes via Sherpa villages like Thamo and Monjo. Several suspension bridges have to be crossed on your way while taking in the sight of mountains like Kongde Ri and Thamserku. After some time, the trek continues downwards toward Lukla (2,800 m), which marks the end destination for trekking. Once you arrive at Lukla, you take a rest and celebrate the completion of the trek.

  • Max Elevation: 3,438 meters (Namche Bazaar)
  • Travel Distance: 14 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  •  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Fly to Kathmandu

The final day of the trek starts with a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, offering you an aerial view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, glaciers, and the Khumbu Valley.  After arriving in Kathmandu, you are then transferred to the hotel for rest. Breakfast is included, and in the afternoon and evening, you are free to relax, explore local markets, or enjoy a quiet evening at the hotel.

  • Max Elevation: 2,840 meters (Lukla Airport)
  • Travel Distance: 138 km (Kathmandu to Lukla)
  • Travel Hours: 35 to 40 minutes (flight duration)
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast

Trek Route

Everest Three Pass 18 days Trek Route | Ever Nepal

Packing List for Everest Three Pass Trek

For those who are planning to go for the Three Passes trek in Everest, packing adequate trekking equipment is extremely crucial since the route involves trekking through high-altitude passes, glaciers, rocky terrain, and harsh climatic conditions in the alpine environment. Below is a list of recommended gear that you should pack when going for the Three Passes trek in the Everest.

Head

  • Wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Warm woolen beanie
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • UV-protected sunglasses
  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • A lightweight headlamp with additional batteries.
  • Facial wipes

Hands

  • Waterproof gloves
  • Insulated thermal gloves
  • Hand warmers

Upper Body

  • Warm thermal base layers
  • Moisture-wicking trekking t-shirts
  • Full-sleeve trekking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Insulated down jacket
  • Windproof outer shell jacket with waterproofing at the neck and sealing at the waist and shoulders.
  • Lightweight puffy jacket
  • Raincoat or poncho

Lower Body

  • Thermal innerwear
  • Waterproof trekking pants
  • Fleece trekking trousers
  • Comfortable hiking pants
  • High-pass insulated pants.
  • Quick-drying undergarments

Footwear

  • Waterproof, durable trekking boots
  • Sandals or light slippers to wear in camp.
  • Boots with gaiters to keep snowdrifts out of boots in snowy places.
  • Warm woolen socks
  • Moisture-wicking trekking socks
  • Microspikes (optional in snowy conditions)

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Soap or face wash
  • Toilet paper
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Shampoo sachets or travel bottle
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Nail cutter

Accessories

  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
  • Duffel bag
  • Day backpack
  • Water bottle or hydration bladder that can be reused.
  • Water purification tablets or a water filter.
  • Power bank
  • Using a camera or mobile phone
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Dry bags or waterproof covers:

First Aid Kit

  • Diamox for altitude sickness
  • Bandages
  • Antiseptic cream or wipes.
  • Painkillers (Ibuprofen/Paracetamol)
  • Blister treatment
  • Anti-diarrhea medicine
  • Personal prescribed medicines
  • Cough lozenges

Miscellaneous Items

  • Passport photocopies
  • Snack and energy bars
  • Notebook or journal
  • Binoculars
  • Lightweight thermos flask
  • Extra batteries

Specific Gears for Women

While on the trek, there are certain essentials that women must carry in order to complete the journey successfully. Having these gears ensures comfort, hygiene, and protection throughout the trek in changing weather and altitude conditions.

  • Sports bra
  • Thermal leggings
  • Comfortable undergarments
  • Sanitary pads or tampons
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Products for moisturizing and caring for the skin.
  • Sunscreen and lip care.
  • Fleece headband
  • Hair ties, personal grooming supplies
  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner.

Documents Required for Everest Three Pass Trek

To make the Everest Three Pass Trek successful and hassle-free, some documents are essential. These documents are required in emergency situations, permits, and identification. The required documents are listed below:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit: It is a must-have permit to enter Sagarmatha National Park in the Everest Region. It is available in Kathmandu with the Nepal Tourism Board. The fee for the permit is about NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals, NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali citizens.
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: This community permit is necessary to enter the Khumbu region. It can be picked up from either Lukla or Monjo. The price is normally from NPR 2,000 to NPR 3,000 for foreign trekkers.
  • Passport: An Original Passport with 6 months' validity is required for Nepal entry.
  • Passport-Size Photos: At least 2-4 passport-size photos for permits and travel documents.
  • Nepal Entry Visa: Foreign nationals are required to have an entry visa to come to Nepal, which will be issued on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Travel Insurance: The Everest Three Pass Trek requires travel insurance. The insurance must include high altitude trekking, helicopter evacuation in emergencies, accidents, and medical expenses.

What's included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle.

  • All accommodations during the trek and in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis.

  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu).

  • Experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide.

  • Staff costs, including salary, insurance, equipment, and food.

  • Trekking duffel bag, T-shirt, and map.

  • Farewell dinner with a cultural program in Kathmandu.

  • All necessary trekking permits and paperwork.

  • A comprehensive medical kit is carried by the trek leader.

  • Government taxes and official expenses.

What's excluded

  • Nepal entry visa.

  • Travel and medical insurance.

  • Personal expenses (hot showers, phone, Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks, battery charge).

  • Extra meals or accommodation in Kathmandu.

  • Tips for guides and porters (recommended 10% of total payment).

  • Excess baggage charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Everest Three Pass Trek?

Everest 3 Pass trek is classified as one of the toughest treks in the world as it passes through three passes that are over 5,000m high. Trekkers must be physically fit, have stamina, and be acclimatized to successfully complete this trek.

Is trekking experience required?

This trek is highly recommended for those who are experienced in trekking. Previous long-distance trekking experience is useful for overcoming long trekking times and steep terrain.

Will there be any altitude sickness on this trek?

Yes, altitude sickness is one of the primary concerns, as the journey goes through altitudes over 5,500 meters. Climbing slowly, being hydrated, and well acclimatized is extremely crucial.

When is the best time to go on the Everest Three Pass Trek?

The best season is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These are the most serene months with clearer visibility of the mountains. At these times, the climate is relatively stable, making trekking easier and more pleasurable.

Are tea houses available throughout the route?

There are tea houses and lodges available all along the trek, except in certain sections. But in higher and remote areas, the facilities are becoming basic. It is advisable to book in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability and better accommodation

Can beginners do the Everest Three Pass Trek?

This is definitely not the best option for beginners, since it is quite strenuous and involves long walking days as well as very demanding mountain passes. It is highly advisable to be properly prepared for the trek and have some previous trekking experience.

What attracts trekkers most to the Everest Three Pass Trek?

The Everest Three Pass Trek offers many highlights, such as:

  • Trek through Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes

  • Climb to Everest Base Camp.

  • Sunrise view from Kala Patthar.

  • Scenic views of  Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri

  • Buddhist culture and Sherpa villages

  • Panoramic views of the mountains

  • stunning views of glacier and valleys

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