Everest Three High Passes Trek
20-Day Ultimate Khumbu Challenge
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is the ultimate challenge in the Khumbu region — a 20-day expedition crossing three dramatic mountain passes above 5,300m: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This is the definitive trek for experienced adventurers seeking to explore every corner of the Everest region.
Beyond the three passes, this expedition includes Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar sunrise, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri — combining all the highlights of the Khumbu into one epic journey. With remote trails, glacier crossings, and some of the most dramatic alpine scenery on the planet, this trek pushes boundaries while rewarding you with views that few ever witness.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY
COSTS INCLUDE
COST EXCLUDE
ESSENTIAL TIPS
GALLERY
FAQ
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Three High Passes Above 5,300m
Cross Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) — three dramatic glacier passes offering some of the most remote and spectacular terrain in the Himalayas.
Complete Khumbu Experience
This single trek combines EBC, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri — every major Khumbu highlight in one expedition.
Remote Trails
Long stretches of this route see very few trekkers. Between the passes, you'll have the mountains largely to yourself.
Gokyo Ri & Kala Patthar
Summit both of the Everest region's premier viewpoints for contrasting but equally breathtaking panoramas.
Glacier Navigation
Multiple glacier crossings with crampons add technical adventure to this world-class trek.
ITINERARY DETAILS
Airport transfer, hotel check-in, and detailed trek briefing for this demanding expedition.
Permit processing, thorough gear check, and physical readiness assessment. Welcome dinner.
Mountain flight and gentle first day along the Dudh Koshi River. 8km, 3-4 hours.
Enter Sagarmatha National Park through dense forests. First Everest views. 11km, 5-6 hours.
Hike to viewpoints and explore the Sherpa capital. Essential preparation for the altitude ahead.
Rhododendron forest trails to the famous monastery with views of Ama Dablam. 10km, 5-6 hours.
Ascend above the tree line into the high alpine landscape. 9km, 5-6 hours.
Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m) for panoramic views. Critical rest day before the first pass.
The first and highest pass. Early start for the steep climb over moraines and glacial terrain. Descend to Lobuche. 8km, 8-9 hours.
Reach Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep. 13km, 8-9 hours.
Sunrise from Kala Patthar, then traverse to Dzongla in preparation for Cho La Pass. 14km, 7-8 hours.
Second pass — a demanding glacier crossing requiring crampons. Arrive at the quiet settlement of Thagnak. 8km, 7-8 hours.
Descend alongside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier to the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes. 5km, 3-4 hours.
Pre-dawn ascent of Gokyo Ri for a panorama rivaling Kala Patthar. Afternoon explore the lakes.
The third and final pass offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and the Gokyo Valley you're leaving behind. 9km, 7-8 hours.
Descend into the peaceful Thame Valley, a remote Sherpa village rarely visited by trekkers. 7km, 4-5 hours.
Return to civilization via the scenic Thame trail. Celebrate at Namche. 5km, 3-4 hours.
Final trail day back through familiar territory. Farewell dinner with your team. 19km, 7-8 hours.
Morning flight. Afternoon free. Farewell dinner with fellow trekkers.
Airport transfer for your onward journey.
COST INCLUDE
Airport pickup and drop-off for all flights
3 nights at a quality hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
Welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
Round-trip flights: Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu with all taxes
All required trekking permits and national park entry fees
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with tea/coffee during trek
Experienced, certified English-speaking trekking guide
Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers) carrying up to 14kg per person
Comfortable teahouse accommodation throughout the trek
Insurance coverage for all Nepalese staff
First aid medical kit carried by the guide
All government taxes and service charges
Trek completion certificate
Clip Himalaya duffle bag and trekking cap
COST EXCLUDE
Nepal entry visa fee
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation coverage (min US$15,000)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks during trek
Hot showers and battery charging at teahouses
Wi-Fi and internet usage along the trail
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, snacks)
Extra accommodation due to early arrival or flight delays
Tips for guide and porters
Drone and special filming permits
Costs from natural disasters or flight cancellations
Crampon and ice axe rental for glacier crossings
ESSENTIAL TIPS
Physical Preparation
Begin a training routine 2-3 months before departure. Focus on cardio endurance and leg strength — hiking, running, and stair climbing are ideal. Walking 6-8 hours daily at altitude demands a solid fitness base.
Altitude Awareness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. Stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol, and follow the golden rule: climb high, sleep low. Never ignore persistent headaches or nausea — communicate immediately with your guide.
Packing Light
Your porter carries up to 14kg, and you carry a daypack with essentials. Layer your clothing: thermal base, insulating fleece, waterproof shell. Break in your trekking boots well before the trip.
Best Seasons
March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) offer the best conditions with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Winter treks are possible but significantly colder.
Lukla Flights
Flights to Lukla are weather-dependent and delays happen. Always keep a buffer day before international connections. Helicopter transfers are available at extra cost.
Cash & Connectivity
Carry Nepali rupees — ATMs are only in Kathmandu and Namche. Wi-Fi exists at teahouses for a fee. A local Ncell SIM card provides basic connectivity.
Experience Required
This trek is strenuous and suited for experienced trekkers. Previous high-altitude trekking (above 4,000m) is strongly recommended. Three consecutive glacier passes demand mental and physical resilience.
Technical Gear
Crampons are essential for Kongma La and Cho La. Your guide provides assistance, but familiarity with walking on ice and snow is highly recommended.
Ready to trek?
Tell us your dates and group size. After advance payment, we send you guided breathing techniques for altitude and backpacking skills for the trail. Want professional photos, video, or drone shots of your trek? Just ask.
