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Everest 3 High Passes Trek

5 - Excellent
Based on 7 Reviews | More reviews on TripAdvisor

Everest 3 High Passes Trek 15 Days, Strenuous

The Everest 3 High Passes trek is one of the most beautiful, scenic, and adventurous trekking in the Everest region. We will cross the three high passes in the Khumbu region. 3 high passes are Kongma La (5535 m), Cho La (5420 m), and Renjo La (5360 m) during the trekking.


Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Strenuous

A strenuous trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a top-notch level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 5644.5 m (Kalapatthar)

The highest point of the trek is a perfect vantage point to get close-up views of Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, etc.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Comfortable accommodation with basic facilities during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

Healthy and Hygienic 3-course gourmet meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Stable weather and temperature offer clear views and comfortable trekking trails.

Trip Route:

Kathmandu to Lukla flight - Trek to Phakding - Namche Bazaar – Tengboche - Dingboche - Lobuche via Kongma La Pass - Gorakshep - Everest Base Camp - Gorakshep -Kalapatthar - Dzongl - Dragnag via Cho La Pass – Gokyo - Lumde via Renjo La Pass -Namche Bazaar - Lukla - Kathmandu flight


Everest 3 High Passes Trek Highlights

  • 3 High Passes-Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m)
  • Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kalapatthar viewpoint (5644.5 m)
  • Stunning views of Mera Peak, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak
  • Mesmerizing Gokyo Lake and superb Gokyo Ri
  • Attractive Khumjung village and other Sherpa settlements
  • Impressive views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamserku
  • Vibrant Sherpa capital Namche
  • Largest Tengboche Monastery
  • Sherpa locals, lifestyle, and culture

Trip Overview

The Everest 3 High Passes trek is one of the most beautiful, scenic, and adventurous trekking in the Everest region. We will cross the three high passes in the Khumbu region. 3 high passes are Kongma La (5535 m), Cho La (5420 m), and Renjo La (5360 m) during the trekking. It sounds strenuous for beginner-level trekkers. We do the process wisely and smoothly having enough acclimatization. Adventure lovers will complete it without any problems. This fantastic trek not only offers your victory over these high passes. But, also offers you mind-blowing views of the Snow-capped Himalayas throughout its extent.

These views offer you the highest mountains on earth namely Mt. Everest- the roof of the world (8848.86 m). Not only that, Lhotse (8516 m), Nuptse (7861 m), Pumori (7165 m), Ama Dablam (6856 m), Thamserku (6608 m), and many more. Every destination we’ll stop here will take us closer to some of the other famous peaks. Like Island Peak (Imja Tse), Mera Peak, and Lobuche Range among others in the Khumbu region.

This trek is an ideal choice for true adventure seekers who are looking for a challenging trek in the Everest region. During this trek, the trekkers pass through the ultimate villages. In the lap of Mount Everest, trek around Gorakshep, Everest Base Camp (5364 m), and Kalapatthar (5644.5 m). Kalapatthar is also the best viewpoint for a Sunrise view over the top of the world including other mountains. Besides this, there is Gokyo Lake (4870 m), and many remarkable Sherpa villages and monasteries as well.

View All Photos

Everest 3 High Passes Trek Gallery

Trip Outline

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Trek preparation day
Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Sightseeing in UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu)

Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla (flight) (2860 m) – Phakding (trek)
Scenic flight to Lukla, start trek to Phakding with guide and porters.

Day 04: Phakding (2610 m) – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Trek to the vibrant Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar which is the gateway to the Everest Base Camp.

Day 05: Acclimatization
Spend the first acclimatization day hiking to the Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village (3,790 m) tour.

Day 06: Namche Bazaar – Tengboche (3867 m)
Trek to Tengboche which is home to the largest Tengboche Monastery in the Everest region.

Day 07: Tengboche – Dingboche (4410 m)
Trek to only barley-grown place Dingboche where you experience an increase in altitude, so trek slowly.

Day 08: Acclimatization
Spend the second acclimatization day hiking to the grand Nangsar Tshang Peak (5,083 m) or the beautiful Chhukung Valley.

Day 09: Dingboche – Lobuche (4940 m) via Kongma La Pass (5535 m)
Trek to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass at an altitude of 5535 m.

Day 10: Lobuche – Gorakshep – Everest Base Camp (5364 m) – Gorakshep (5164 m)
Adventurous trek to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp and return.

Day 11: Gorakshep – Kalapatthar (5644.5 m) – Dzongla (4830 m)
Trek to the vantage point Kalapatthar for a close-up of Everest and other peaks views, and return to Dzongla.

Day 12: Dzongla – Dragnag (4700 m) via Cho La Pass (5420 m)
Trek passes through a narrow valley, ascends Cho La Pass and descends to Dragnag.

Day 13: Dragnag – Gokyo (4750 m)
Trek to Gokyo admiring the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Day 14: Acclimatization Day
Ascend Gokyo Ri (5357 m) and explore Gokyo Valley and its surroundings.

Day 15: Gokyo – Lungden (4380 m) via Renjo La Pass (5360 m)
Ascend Gokyo Ri and get rewarded with stunning views of Ngozumpa Glacier, snowy mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc.

Day 16: Lungden – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Trek to Namche via Thame through a comfortable trail.

Day 17: Namche Bazaar – Lukla (2860 m)
Return to Lukla takes about 7-8 hours.

Day 18: Lukla – Kathmandu (flight)
Back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 19: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Everest 3 High Passes trek that provide basic facilities (beds, quilts, and pillows) but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are inside the teahouses except in the higher regions. During the peak season, room sharing must be done. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions. Pay an additional cost for services (Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, and showers). Everest Links is an internet provider and there is Wi-Fi up to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Everest 3 High Passes trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Trekkers can munch on bakery items, continental foods, and coffee in Namche. There are a variety of meals to choose from on the menu. (Nepali Dal-Bhat, steamed mo: mo, hot thukpa, soup, porridge, pancake, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.). Please inform your food menu preference earlier if there is any.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Everest 3 High Passes trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

The transportation during the trek is as scheduled in the itinerary preferred by the travelers which is as follows:

  • Private vehicle transfer to/from the airport in Kathmandu
  • Private vehicle ride to Ramechhap and transfer to/from the airport (only during April, May, October, and November months)
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight

The ideal seasons for the Everest 3 High Passes trek are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. There is a high chance of flight cancellation during monsoon and winter. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Everest 3 High Passes trek requires three compulsory permits i.e. Sagarmatha National Park (SNP), Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

Foreigners- NPR 3000
SAARC- NPR 2000

Sagarmatha National Park (SNP)

Foreigners- NPR 3000
SAARC- NPR 1500

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
SAARC- NPR 1000/person
Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

Everest 3 High Passes Trek is a strenuous trek with a maximum elevation of 5,644.5 m. It also involves traversing 3 high passes- Kongma La (5535 m), Cho La (5420 m), and Renjo La (5360 m). Trekkers should have prior experience in trekking at high altitudes. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails and gaining altitude can be challenging for trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with above-average physical fitness and a positive attitude to complete this trekking. The trek is slightly technical and trekkers have to use fixed ropes, crampons, and an ice ax.

Fitness:

Everest 3 High Passes trek demands trekkers to have top-notch fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Everest 3 High Passes trek is 5,644.5 m (Kalapatthar). This trek also demands crossing 3 High Passes- Kongma La (5535 m), Cho La (5420 m), and Renjo La (5360 m). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

The Everest 3 High Passes trek is strenuous. Thus, it requires standard equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

Gear: Ropes, Crampons, Ice Ax, Ice-claw, Harness, Microspikes (optional)

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek (Toilet and bathroom will be outside of the room); Deluxe accommodation for 3 nights in Kathmandu, on a sharing basis with Breakfast
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: All ground transportation in a luxury private vehicle. Domestic flight (Kathmandu/Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap/Kathmandu) as scheduled in the itinerary
  • Documentation: Trekking permit (Sagarmatha National Park), Khumbu village entry permit, and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement.
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations
  • Your travel insurance
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • International Air Fares
  • Excess baggage charges on the Domestic flight (The airlines allow 15 kg per person if the luggage is more than 15 kilos, approx. USD 1 per kilo will be charged additionally)
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available with extra cost)

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

All our published dates are guaranteed departures. We are delighted to create customized departure dates if our dates don’t match your travel plans

Date by Year:
Start DatePrice (USD)AvailabilityBooking
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024$1775 Available
Thursday Dec 19, 2024$1775 Available
Date by Year:

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent Based on 7 Reviews


Neil Davies
United Kingdom

Felt Like Royalty

May 2022

This was the second time in using Outdoor Himalayan Treks and I so glad I returned. From the moment I was greeted by Ram (manager of OHT) at Kathmandu airport, to the wonderful and detailed service on the trek from Krishna and Dipak, I felt like royalty. I feel this company goes the extra mile to make you feel you are getting the most from your time spent in Nepal. On my return this time, I chose to do the Renjo La and Everest base camp trek. My guide was Krishna, a man with 22 years experience as a guide has so much knowledge of the surrounding mountains and Nepal itself. My porter Dipak who has the strength of ten men and also the most kindest person. I feel the service in whole was a 5 star experience and I would highly recommend asking for these two if possible. You will come to use Outdoor Himalayan Treks as a client, but most definitely will part as friends.


EBC Journey3

Journey53173105667

3 high pass and EBC

Nov 2018

I recently completed the 18-day Three High Passes and Everest Base Camp trek, and I was thoroughly impressed by the flexibility and attentiveness to our needs throughout the journey. The communication from start to finish was excellent—every question was answered promptly, and we received valuable advice on everything from packing to dining.

Our guide, Rupak, and porter, Kittyman, were exceptional. They were easygoing, spoke great English, and were always up for a joke. I highly recommend requesting them by name for any trek.

I wholeheartedly recommend this company for any trek in Nepal. Thank you so much—AAAAAA+++++!


Everest 3 passes Tyron4

Tyron M
Australia

Everest 3 High Passes Trek

Apr 2018

My friends and I completed the 3 High Passes Trek with Outdoor Himalayan Treks, and Badri, Ram, and Prakash were fantastic. Our guide, Prakash, was incredibly knowledgeable and felt like family by the end of the trek. I’m already planning to return next year to complete another section of the Base Camp trek with this team. Their professionalism and helpfulness made everything seamless. See you again next year!


Everest 3 passes

Andrew

Everest 3 passes trek

Apr 2018

I give Outdoor Himalayan Treks a solid 5 stars! Prakash and Badri provided top-notch service, going the extra mile for our group. The trek was amazing—just check out my photos to see how incredible it was. For an unforgettable experience, choose Outdoor Himalayan Treks for the 3 Passes Everest trek.


Weather in Everest Region- A Complete Guide

Nick S

Fantastic experience across the Shangri La Chola and Kombu La passes

Apr 2018

I recently trekked to Everest Base Camp with Outdoor Himalayan Treks alongside a group of six Aussie mates. The hike is challenging, but the stunning views and overall experience make it well worth the effort. I highly recommend taking the time to explore the passes rather than heading straight to base camp—these quieter trails are much more enjoyable!

Our guide, Prakash, blended seamlessly with our group. He was exceptional—answering all our questions, organizing our accommodations and meals, and keeping us on track. He was also a lot of fun to be around and even joined us in Pokhara for a few days after the trek.

Badri and the team at Outdoor Himalayan Treks are top-notch. I can’t recommend them enough!