Highlights

  • Scenic mountain flight to Lukla – a thrilling gateway to the Everest region.

  • Complete Everest circuit experience – crossing Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,345 m).

  • Everest Base Camp visit (5,364 m) – stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain.

  • Panoramic sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545 m) – the best viewpoint of Everest and surrounding peaks.

  • Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) – overlooking the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier.

  • Side trip to Chhukung Ri (5,545 m) – stunning views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam.

  • Trek through Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – home to rare wildlife like snow leopards and red pandas.

  • Visit the spiritual Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region.

  • Experience authentic Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar and remote mountain villages.

  • Ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking the ultimate high-altitude challenge in Nepal.

About Everest Three Passes Trek - 15 Days

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most adventurous and challenging trekking experiences in Nepal, designed for trekkers who want to go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route. This ultimate Everest trekking journey crosses three of the highest mountain passes in the Khumbu region—Kongma La (5,535 m / 18,159 ft), Cho La (5,420 m / 17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,345 m / 17,536 ft)—making it a circuit that showcases the very best of the Everest Himalayas.

Unlike standard treks, the Three Passes route is a complete Everest circuit trek that combines dramatic mountain scenery, high-altitude adventure, and cultural immersion. Along the way, trekkers visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft), climb iconic viewpoints like Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), Gokyo Ri (5,360 m / 17,585 ft), and Chhukung Ri (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, Khumbu Glacier, and Ngozumpa Glacier—the largest glacier in Nepal. Each vantage point offers a panoramic view of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and Pumori.

The trek is not just about mountain passes and peaks; it’s also a journey through the heart of Sherpa culture. You will trek across remote villages, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the warm hospitality of the Himalayan people. The trail lies within the Sagarmatha National Park (1,148 sq. km), a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in biodiversity. Here you may encounter unique wildlife such as the Himalayan thar, musk deer, snow leopard, red panda, and over 118 bird species. The alpine flora also changes dramatically with altitude, from lush forests of rhododendron and pine to barren high-altitude landscapes where plants barely grow.

Physically and mentally demanding, the Everest Three Passes Trek is recommended for experienced trekkers with good fitness and stamina. Proper acclimatization is crucial as the trek involves sustained high-altitude hiking, often above 5,000 meters. For those who are bold, determined, and passionate about mountain adventures, this trek offers an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In short, the Everest Three High Passes Trek is the ultimate challenge in the Everest region—perfect for thrill-seekers and true mountain lovers who want to experience every highlight of Khumbu in a single journey.

Outline Itinerary

Detail itinerary
  • Day 1Flight to Lukla (2,800 m / 9,186 ft) and Trek to Phakding (2,651 m / 8,698 ft)
  • Day 2Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
  • Day 3Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (Hike to 3,700 m / 12,139 ft)
  • Day 4Trek to Tengboche (3,900 m / 12,795 ft)
  • Day 5Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft)
  • Day 6Trek to Chhukung (4,730 m / 15,518 ft) + Hike to Chhukung Ri (5,545 m / 18,192 ft)
  • Day 7Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535 m / 18,159 ft) and Trek to Lobuche (4,938 m / 16,200 ft)
  • Day 8Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft) and Overnight at Gorak Shep (5,164 m / 16,942 ft)
  • Day 9Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m / 15,846 ft)
  • Day 10Day 10: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m / 17,782 ft) and Trek to Gokyo (4,750 m / 15,583 ft) via Thangnak
  • Day 11Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360 m / 17,585 ft) and Explore Gokyo Lakes
  • Day 12Cross Renjo La Pass (5,345 m / 17,536 ft) and Trek to Marlung (4,210 m / 13,812 ft)
  • Day 13Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
  • Day 14Trek to Lukla (2,800 m / 9,186 ft)
  • Day 15Fly Back to Kathmandu (1,330 m / 4,363 ft)

What’s Included

  • Airport Pickup on Arrival and Departure at Kathmandu Airport by Private Transport.

  • 2 Night Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB Plan

  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight including airport transfer.

  • All Trekking Permit( sagarmatha National park fee and Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees)

  • Tea House Accommodation During The Trek

  • Three meals a day(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) During the trek

  • Use of sleeping Bag and Duffel bag(if you don't have your own, to be refund after the trek)

  • Daily seasonable fresh fruits after dinner

  • For safety, the guide carries a first aid kit with an oximeter to monitor oxygen and pulse in high-altitude areas.

  • English speaking experienced guide

  • Food, salary, accommodation and insurance for our Nepali staffs

  • Everest region trekking map

  • All Government and Local taxes.

NOTE: “During the high trekking seasons, flights to and from Lukla are operated from Ramechhap Airport, which is located approximately 4–5 hours east of Kathmandu by road.”

Optional

  1. Kathmandu Lukla Heli USD 350 ( subject to change)

  2. Lukl to Kathmandu Heli USD 350 (subject to change)

  3. Porter: Per porter: USD 300

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee

  • Meal in Kathmandu

  • Travel and Rescue Insurance

  • Additional hotel nights in Kathmandu required in the event of early arrival, late departure, or an early return from the trek for any reason.

  • Personal expenses such as Wi-Fi, phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery charging, bottled water, showers, and tea/coffee.

  • Others cost not mentioned in "cost includes" sections

  • Tips for Guide, porters and Drivers (Expected)

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesAvailabilityPrice    
27 Nov, 2025 - 11 Dec, 2025US$ 1200GuaranteedBook Now

Tips & Ideas

Everest Three Passes Trek – Essential Information

Trek Difficulty

The Everest Three Passes Trek is widely considered one of the most challenging treks in the Everest region. Crossing three high-altitude passes above 5,000 meters (Kongma La 5,535m, Cho La 5,420m, and Renjo La 5,360m) requires excellent physical stamina, mental resilience, and proper acclimatization.

  • Technical difficulty: Mostly non-technical, but icy sections on Cho La and steep ascents/descents require caution.

  • Fitness level: Strong cardiovascular endurance and hiking experience are highly recommended.

  • Preparation: At least 2–3 months of physical training (cardio, strength, and long hikes with a backpack) will give you an advantage.
    Compared to the classic Everest Base Camp Trek or Everest Panorama Trek, this adventure is more strenuous and requires greater preparation.

Best Time to Go

The best seasons for the Everest Three Passes Trek are:

  • Spring (February–May) 🌸 – Stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, clear mountain views.

  • Autumn (September–November) 🍂 – Crisp skies, great visibility, and moderate temperatures.

⚠️ Monsoon season (June–August) brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and cloud-covered views. Winter (December–January) is extremely cold with snow blocking high passes, making the trek risky.

👉 With Hikers Haven, your safety and comfort are prioritized. Our expert guides ensure proper acclimatization and a rewarding experience.

Food & Accommodation

  • Food: Trekkers will be served meals in local teahouses along the trail. Expect a mix of traditional Nepali meals (dal bhat, momos, thukpa) and simple Western dishes (pasta, noodles, pancakes, fried rice). Breakfast and dinner are served at the lodge where you stay, while lunch is eaten en route. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

  • Drinks: A variety of teas, coffee, and soft drinks are available. Purified water or boiled water can be purchased. We recommend carrying water purification tablets.

  • Accommodation:

    • Basic teahouses with single beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets.

    • Extra blankets available upon request.

    • Heating is minimal—dining areas may have a wood or yak-dung stove, but bedrooms are unheated.

    • Shared bathrooms (squat toilets or Western toilets depending on the lodge).

Trekking Equipment

You don’t need to buy all your gear back home—most trekking equipment is easily available for rent or purchase in Thamel, Kathmandu. Focus on personal clothing layers and essentials.

Recommended gear includes:

  • Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece jacket, down jacket, trekking pants, waterproof/windproof outer shell, gloves, warm hat, and quick-dry trekking shirts.

  • Footwear: Broken-in trekking boots, warm socks, and lightweight camp shoes.

  • Accessories: Trekking poles, sunglasses, sun hat, headlamp, reusable water bottle/hydration bladder, sunscreen, lip balm.

  • Sleeping: Warm sleeping bag (rated at least -15°C).

  • Other: Personal first aid kit, blister care, water purification tablets, portable power bank.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long is the Everest Three Passes Trek?

Typically 18–21 days, depending on acclimatization and side trips like Gokyo Ri, Kala Patthar, and Everest Base Camp. Hikers Haven offers a standard 15-day itinerary, customizable to your pace.

2. Do I need prior trekking experience?

Yes, prior high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended. This trek is suitable for experienced trekkers with strong fitness levels.

3. Is altitude sickness a risk?

Yes, since the trek crosses multiple passes above 5,000m. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential. Our guides are trained in recognizing and managing altitude sickness.

4. Do I need permits?

Yes. Trekkers require:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
    Hikers Haven arranges all necessary permits for you.

5. Do I need a guide and porter?

While it’s possible to trek independently, it’s highly recommended to hire a licensed guide and porter for safety, navigation, and cultural insight. Our professional team ensures a smooth and memorable journey.

6. Can I charge electronic devices?

Yes, teahouses provide charging facilities (for a small fee). Carrying a power bank or solar charger is highly useful.

7. Is travel insurance necessary?

Absolutely. Insurance must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m), helicopter evacuation, and medical emergencies.