Everest Three High Passes Trek

USD

Accomodation
Hotel, Tea House
Max. Altitude
5545m
Group Size
1+
Activity Per Day
Trekking
Transporation
Flight, Private Drive
Grade
Moderate

Overview

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most thrilling and comprehensive trekking adventures in the entire Khumbu region. Designed for trekkers seeking challenge, beauty, and complete immersion in the Himalayas, this trek crosses the region’s three most iconic high passes:

  • Kongma La Pass (5,535m)

  • Cho La Pass (5,420m)

  • Renjo La Pass (5,360m)

This adventure offers unmatched panoramic views of Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,463m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and countless other Himalayan giants.

Along the journey, trekkers visit the stunning Gokyo Valley, climb the scenic viewpoints of Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri, walk across glaciers, explore Sherpa villages, and step foot at the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m).

The Everest Three Passes Trek is physically demanding but immensely rewarding—perfect for experienced trekkers seeking the ultimate adventure in the Everest region.

Itinerary

    • Accommodation:

      Comfortable Hotel 

    • Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, an Orbit Nepal Adventure representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead.

    • Accommodation:

      Comfortable Hotel

    • Meals:

      Breakfast 

    • Spend the day on a guided tour of Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Patan Durbar Square. In the afternoon, your guide will provide a detailed trek briefing and assist with any final gear checks or arrangements.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • An early morning scenic flight (approx. 30 mins) takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From here, the trek begins with a gradual descent along the Dudh Kosi River to Phakding. The initial day is kept short to aid acclimatization. (3 hours trekking)

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • ​​​​​​​Follow the river, crossing numerous suspension bridges, before a steady uphill climb to Monjo and the entrance of the Sagarmatha National Park. The trail eventually leads to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital, where you'll get your first distant glimpse of Mount Everest.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • ​​​​​​​Health experts recommend staying active on rest days. Options include a short hike to the nearby villages of Khunde or Thame, or visiting the Sagarmatha National Park Museum to learn about Sherpa culture and the region's wildlife. Explore the local market and cafes.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • The trail from Namche leads west along the Bhote Koshi valley. Enjoy spectacular views of peaks like Ama Dablam and Everest as you make your way to Thame, a less-crowded traditional Sherpa village.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Continue through the high alpine landscape with sparse vegetation. The trail offers solitude and impressive views of Kongde Ri. Marulung is a small settlement, offering a peaceful overnight stop.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • A shorter trekking day helps with altitude adjustment before the first pass. The path involves a gentle incline after crossing a stream, leading you to the small village of Lungden.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • This is a challenging day as you tackle the first major pass. The views from the top of Renjo La are breathtaking, encompassing Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and the stunning third Gokyo Lake and Ngozumpa Glacier below. A descent through the glacier leads to the teahouses at Gokyo.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Explore the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes, or for an even better panoramic viewpoint, hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,357m). The sunrise views of the surrounding peaks, including Makalu and Nuptse, are an unforgettable reward for the climb.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • A short trek today, primarily involving crossing the vast Ngozumpa Glacier to reach the small herding settlement of Thaknak (Dragnag). Enjoy views of Cho Oyu and Gokyo Ri en route.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • The second, and arguably most technical, pass awaits. The ascent is steep and rocky, and involves traversing a glacier on the eastern side. Care is needed on the icy sections. The pass is adorned with prayer flags, and the descent to Dzongla offers views of Cholatse and Ama Dablam.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • A relatively short and easier day, allowing recovery from the previous day's effort. The trail descends from Dzongla, crosses a bridge, and contours through grassy terrain to Lobuche, a common staging point for Everest Base Camp treks.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Hike along the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep, the final teahouse stop. After lunch, trek to Everest Base Camp, where you'll see the iconic Khumbu Icefall and potentially climbing expeditions during peak season. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, DInner 

    • An early morning ascent of Kalapatthar offers the best sunrise view of Everest. After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, retrace your steps to Lobuche

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • The third and final high pass. This is a tough, long day, crossing a challenging rocky pass to reach Chhukung, a small village often used by climbers and trekkers heading to Island Peak.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

    • Descend through the valley, passing the village of Dingboche, with views of Ama Dablam. The trail eventually leads to Tengboche, home to the largest and most famous monastery in the Khumbu region.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse

    • Meals:

      Breakfast. Lunch, Dinner 

    • Continue descending through a forest of rhododendron and pine, with the sound of the Dudh Kosi river below. The path leads back to Namche Bazaar, where you can enjoy modern amenities like bakeries and internet cafes.

    • Accommodation:

      Teahouse 

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, lunch, Dinner 

    • A final, long day of trekking, mostly downhill and on flat ground along the river, passing through several small villages before the last uphill climb to Lukla

    • Accommodation:

      Comfortable Hotel

    • Meals:

      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    • An early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is for rest, souvenir shopping, or exploring the city at your leisure.

    • Meals:

      Breakfast 

    • An Orbite Nepal Adventure representative will transfer you to the international airport for your final departure

Inclusion

What's Included
    • 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (BB plan)

    • Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)

    • Sagarmatha National Park permit & TIMS

    • Full-board meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

    • Tea house accommodation during the trek

    • Professional, licensed trekking guide

    • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)

    • Guide & porter salary, meals, accommodation & insurance

    • Filtered drinking water

    • First aid kit

    • All ground transportation as per itinerary

What's Not Included
    • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu

    • Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage (mandatory)

    • International airfare & taxes

    • Nepal entry visa fees

    • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, hot showers, etc.)

    • Personal trekking gear

    • Tips for guide & porter

    • Extra costs due to weather delays or evacuation

    • Services not mentioned in the “Includes” section

Other info

Best Seasons:

  • Autumn: September–November

  • Spring: March–May
    Both offer stable weather and clear views.

Difficulty Level:

Challenging. Requires good fitness and prior trekking experience.

Maximum Altitude:

Kala Patthar (5,545m) and high passes over 5,400m.

Accommodation:

Tea houses with basic but comfortable facilities. Twin sharing rooms.

Water:

Filtered water provided; bring a reusable bottle.

Weather:

Temperature drops significantly at higher altitudes. Proper layering is essential.

Electricity & Wi-Fi:

Available in major villages; may cost extra and can be unreliable.

Health & Safety:

Acclimatization days and slow pacing are essential to reduce altitude sickness risks.

FAQ's

  • How difficult is the Three High Passes Trek?

    It is considered strenuous and suitable for experienced trekkers.

  • Do we visit Everest Base Camp on this trek?

    , EBC is included in the standard itinerary.

     

  • What makes the Three Passes Trek different from EBC Trek?

    It covers high passes, Gokyo Valley, lakes, ridges, and offers a full circuit.

  • What is the highest point?

    Kala Patthar (5,545m), followed by Kongma La Pass (5,535m).

  • Is experience required?

    Previous trekking experience is highly recommended due to the difficulty.

  • Are guides compulsory?

    Strongly recommended for safety, navigation, and acclimatization support.

  • How cold does it get?

    Temperatures can drop to –15°C to –20°C at night in higher areas.

  • How long does the trek take?

    Standard duration is 17–20 days.