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Trekkers on the trail above Namche Bazaar at sunrise

Everest Three Pass Trek-17day

A Thrilling Journey Across Everest’s Three High Passes

Duration
16 nights / 17 days
Max altitude
5,545 m
Difficulty
Challenging
Group size
5–28
Best season
Spring, Autumn
Starts from
Kathmandu

Kathmandu → Lukla → Namche → Tengboche → Dingboche → Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp → Kala Patthar → Lukla → Kathmandu

Overview

An ultimate Himalayan adventure crossing the legendary Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La passes, reaching altitudes of up to 5,545 meters. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Everest region as you journey through remote mountain landscapes, traditional Sherpa villages, turquoise alpine lakes, glaciers, and spectacular views of Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This challenging 17-day trek is designed for adventure seekers looking for an unforgettable experience beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route.

Everest Three Pass Trek – 17 Days</p>
The Everest Three Pass Trek is the ultimate Himalayan adventure for trekkers seeking a challenging and unforgettable journey through the heart of the Everest region. This spectacular 17-day trek crosses three legendary high passes—Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m)—while taking you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas.</p>
The journey combines dramatic mountain scenery, ancient Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, glacial valleys, high-altitude lakes, and spectacular views of **Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu. Along the route, trekkers experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Sherpa people while exploring the remote and less-traveled parts of the Everest region.
The trek also includes iconic destinations such as Namche Bazaar, Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar, offering an incredible combination of adventure, natural beauty, and Himalayan culture.
With challenging high-altitude crossings, rugged trails, glaciers, and panoramic mountain views, the Everest Three Pass Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking to go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route and experience the Himalayas at their most adventurous.
Maximum Altitude: 5,545m
Highest Pass: Kongma La – 5,535m
Duration: 17 Days
Difficulty: Challenging
Region: Everest / Khumbu, Nepal

Trip highlights

  • Cross the legendary Renjo La Pass – 5,360m
  • Challenge yourself at Cho La Pass – 5,420m
  • Conquer Kongma La Pass – 5,535m
  • Reach the iconic Everest Base Camp
  • Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest & Himalayan giants
  • Experience authentic Sherpa culture and mountain villages
  • Visit historic Buddhist monasteries of the Khumbu region
  • Explore glaciers, high-altitude valleys and dramatic landscapes

Altitude profile

0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
3,500 m
Day 1, Flight from Kathmandu/ Manthali to lukla, 2,610 metres. Jump to this day.Day 2, Trek from Phakding (2650m)to Namche Bazaar(3440m), 3,440 metres. Jump to this day.Day 3, Rest Day for altitude acclimatization at Namche Bazaar, 3,440 metres. Jump to this day.Day 4, Trek from Namche Bazar (3440m) to Thame (3750m), 3,750 metres. Jump to this day.Day 5, Trek from Thame (3,750 m / 12,303 ft) to Lundeng (4,500 m / 14,764 ft), 4,500 metres. Jump to this day.Day 6, Trek from Lundeng (4,500m / 14,764ft) via Lenjola Pass (5,446m) to Gokyo Lake (4,750m ), 5,446 metres. Jump to this day.Day 7, Rest day in Gokyo for altitude acclimatization. Early morning at Gokyo Ri Viewpoint (5,400 m ), 5,400 metres. Jump to this day.Day 8, Trek from Gokyo (4,790m) to Thangnak (4,700m ), 4,700 metres. Jump to this day.Day 9, Trek from Tangnak (4,700 m) to Dzongla (4,855 m) via Chola Pass (5,420 m), 5,420 metres. Jump to this day.Day 10, Trek from Dzongla (4,855m ) to Lobuche (4,910m ), 4,910 metres. Jump to this day.Day 11, Trek from Lobuche (4,930m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & back to Gorak Shep (5,185m), 5,364 metres. Jump to this day.Day 12, Hike to Kala Patthar Lookout (5,555 m ) & Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m ), 4,910 metres. Jump to this day.Day 13, Trek from Lobuche (4,930m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m) to Chung (4,730m), 4,730 metres. Jump to this day.Day 14, Trek from Chhukung (4,730 m / 15,580 ft) to Tengboche (3,855 m ), 3,855 metres. Jump to this day.Day 15, Trek from Tengboche (3,855 m ) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m ), 3,440 metres. Jump to this day.Day 16, Trek to Lukla (2,850 m) from from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m ), 3,440 metres. Jump to this day.
Where each day ends, in metres above sea level. Every point links to that day; the same figures are in the itinerary table below. How we plan around altitude sets out the same figures for every trip we run.

Itinerary

Summary of all 16 days
DayWhereAltitudeWalking
1Flight from Kathmandu/ Manthali to lukla2,610 m6.2 hrs · 6.2 km
2Trek from Phakding (2650m)to Namche Bazaar(3440m)3,440 m— · 7.4 km
3Rest Day for altitude acclimatization at Namche Bazaar3,440 m—
4Trek from Namche Bazar (3440m) to Thame (3750m)3,750 m— · 6.8 km
5Trek from Thame (3,750 m / 12,303 ft) to Lundeng (4,500 m / 14,764 ft)4,500 m— · 8.2 km
6Trek from Lundeng (4,500m / 14,764ft) via Lenjola Pass (5,446m) to Gokyo Lake (4,750m )5,446 m— · 9 km
7Rest day in Gokyo for altitude acclimatization. Early morning at Gokyo Ri Viewpoint (5,400 m )5,400 m— · 1.5 km
8Trek from Gokyo (4,790m) to Thangnak (4,700m )4,700 m— · 3.7 km
9Trek from Tangnak (4,700 m) to Dzongla (4,855 m) via Chola Pass (5,420 m)5,420 m— · 16 km
10Trek from Dzongla (4,855m ) to Lobuche (4,910m )4,910 m— · 8.36 km
11Trek from Lobuche (4,930m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & back to Gorak Shep (5,185m)5,364 m— · 15 km
12Hike to Kala Patthar Lookout (5,555 m ) & Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m )4,910 m— · 5 km
13Trek from Lobuche (4,930m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m) to Chung (4,730m)4,730 m— · 10.5 km
14Trek from Chhukung (4,730 m / 15,580 ft) to Tengboche (3,855 m )3,855 m— · 12.9 km
15Trek from Tengboche (3,855 m ) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m )3,440 m— · 5.9 km
16Trek to Lukla (2,850 m) from from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m )3,440 m— · 13.5 km

  1. Day 1Flight from Kathmandu/ Manthali to lukla

    • Altitude2,610 m
    • Walking6.2 hrs
    • Distance6.2 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner
    • TransportMountain flight, then trek
    Flight from Kathmandu/ Manthali to lukla — day 1

    The Everest Three Pass Trek will be starts with a flight to the Lukla. During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, September, October, and November), flights from Kathmandu to Lukla may be diverted via Manthali Airport. To grab an early morning flight to lukla from Manthali, we will picked up you from your hotel at about 12:30 AM and we will take you on a 5-hour drive in vehicle to Manthali Airport. From Manthali airport, it’s takes about a 20-minute flight to Lukla. You can also rent a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla and skip the Kathmandu-Manthali-Lukla route. The shared helicopter cost between 5 passengers will be about $550 per person.

    In December, January, February, June, July, or August, you'll fly direct from Kathmandu to Lukla. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for a 40-minute flight to Lukla's Tenzing-Hillary Airport. After arriving in Lukla, we descend to the Thad Kosi River and cross several suspension bridges to reach Phakding. The hike is short and comfortable, and also allows you to acclimatize to the environment. In Phakding, you can visit the local Lemishun Monastery.

  2. Day 2Trek from Phakding (2650m)to Namche Bazaar(3440m)

    • Altitude3,440 m
    • Distance7.4 km
    • StayTeahouse in Namche Bazaar
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner
    • TransportTrek

    Start early in the morning from Phakding, walk north along the Dudh Kosi River, passing many suspension bridges including the Hillary Suspension Bridge. Our route will take you through Monjo village, deep forests and rocky paths to the checkpoint of Sagarmatha National Park, where you will register your permit and climb into the forest. From this forest you will see Mount Everest for the first time. However, you will continue hiking until you reach Namche Bazaar, your destination for the day.

  3. Day 3Rest Day for altitude acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

    • Altitude3,440 m
    • StayHotel/Guest House
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    Today is your altitude acclimatization day in Namche. We recommend you take a walk around Namche Bazaar. The town has many cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops and equipment stores with Wi-Fi. Other options include visiting Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, traditional Sherpa settlements, Hillary School, Khumjung Monastery and Dingboche Airport.

  4. Day 4Trek from Namche Bazar (3440m) to Thame (3750m)

    • Altitude3,750 m
    • Distance6.8 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    You will Leave Namche Bazaar, follow the Bhote Kosi via pine and rhododendron forests to Thame. Along the way, you will also see the clay-stucco stupa of Pulte. Further on you will reach Tamo and Tamo Gompa, from where the road descends steeply to the Khumbu Hydroelectric Power Plant and finally to Thame at the edge of the Khumbu Valley. Thame is home to many famous Sherpa climbers, including Apa Sherpa, who holds the world record for summiting Everest 21 times. Tenzing Norgay Sherpa along with Edmund Hillary, one of the first men to summit Everest, also grew up here.

  5. Day 5Trek from Thame (3,750 m / 12,303 ft) to Lundeng (4,500 m / 14,764 ft)

    • Altitude4,500 m
    • Distance8.2 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    This day, you will hike through villages, enjoying the countryside, vegetation and mountain views. In the bright morning, the brightly colored rocks, lichens, yaks and snow-capped mountains seem to come alive. The last village in the valley is Tharanga, but you will continue hiking through Malurung village (4200m) and finally reach Lundeng, your destination for the day. During your free time, you can visit Nakpa Valley, once an ancient trade route to Tibet. You can also hike to Chor Lermo Lake.

  6. Day 6Trek from Lundeng (4,500m / 14,764ft) via Lenjola Pass (5,446m) to Gokyo Lake (4,750m )

    • Altitude5,446 m
    • Distance9 km
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    This day will be your most exciting day as you cross Lenjola Pass, the first pass on the route. Leaving Ryuden behind, we continue our journey towards the Lake Gokyo area, where depending on the season you can see various human activities, including yak huts. Once you reach Renjo La Pass, you can enjoy magnificent views of high peaks such as Mt. Everest (8848m), Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Makalu (8463m) and Mt. Cho Oyu (8201m). You will also see the third major Gokyo lake (out of five), Dudh Pokhari. Gokyo village is located above this lake. The track will then descends and enters the Gokyo Valley, but you need to be careful as the trail may be icy.

  7. Day 7Rest day in Gokyo for altitude acclimatization. Early morning at Gokyo Ri Viewpoint (5,400 m )

    • Altitude5,400 m
    • Distance1.5 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    Acclimatizing to the altitude will give you time to ascend to the Gokyo Ri Viewpoint, from where you can enjoy mesmerizing views of the Everest region, including the Sonak Tso and Ngozma Tso lakes. 3 km north of Gokyo is Ngozumpa Tso Glacier (5,000 m) and a 5-minute walk will take you to Scoundrel's Viewpoint, which offers spectacular views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Makalu. To the north of Gokyo Lake 5 there are breathtaking views of Cho Oyu Base Camp and Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

  8. Day 8Trek from Gokyo (4,790m) to Thangnak (4,700m )

    • Altitude4,700 m
    • Distance3.7 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    This day you return to hiking and hike across the Ngozumpa Glacier, but the path is rocky and involves some ups and downs. As you hike down the valley along the eastern glacial deposits, breathtaking views open up and encourage us to continue further. Eventually you will reach a group of lodges known as Tangnak. This place is in a tranquil environment and ideally located for crossing the Chola High Pass.

  9. Day 9Trek from Tangnak (4,700 m) to Dzongla (4,855 m) via Chola Pass (5,420 m)

    • Altitude5,420 m
    • Distance16 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    Today you have a more challenging trek planned where you will hike through rocky paths and glacial deposits before finally reaching Dzongla. But the most exciting part will be crossing the Chola Pass (5420 m), which connects Dzongla to Tangnak. This pass offers amazing views of Everest and other Himalayan ranges. After enjoying the view from there, descend to Dzongla where you will spend the night.

  10. Day 10Trek from Dzongla (4,855m ) to Lobuche (4,910m )

    • Altitude4,910 m
    • Distance8.36 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    After a night in Dzongla, you wake up the next day and continue our trek. Today's destination is Lobuche, where you return to the classic Everest Base Camp trek. But first you start the day by descending along the moraine to Cho La Lake. On the way, you see a memorial to climbers who died in the area. The hike to Lobuche is enjoyable. You will reach Lobuche by following the trails of Imja Khola Valley.

  11. Day 11Trek from Lobuche (4,930m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & back to Gorak Shep (5,185m)

    • Altitude5,364 m
    • Distance15 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    You finally reach Everest Base Camp. The hike starts with a hike through the moraine next to the Khumbu Glacier until you reach Gorak Shep.You have to Leave your bags at Gorak Shep and have to climb north to the Mount Everest Base Camp. The camp itself will be the base for climbers ascending and descending Everest. Reaching Everest Base Camp (EBC) is not an easy feat. Reaching EBC shows how determined you are. In a way, it is a victory over yourself, a victory of determination, positivity and perseverance. You will stay at EBC for a while and enjoy the amazing views that are rarely seen on earth. After taking a few photos, you will descend to Gorakshep and spend the night there.

  12. Day 12Hike to Kala Patthar Lookout (5,555 m ) & Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m )

    • Altitude4,910 m
    • Distance5 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge

    The previous day you were at the base camp of Mt. Everest, but even upon reaching the base camp you could not see much of Mt. Everest. Therefore, this day provides an opportunity to see Everest up close in all its glory. To witness the dawn of Everest, you wake up early in the morning and hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m), a famous lookout point of Everest. You stay at Kala Patthar for a while to enjoy the sunrise from Everest, then descend to Gorakshep for breakfast. After breakfast, return to your destination for the day - Lobuche.

  13. Day 13Trek from Lobuche (4,930m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m) to Chung (4,730m)

    • Altitude4,730 m
    • Distance10.5 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    During this time you will cross the last of the three passes whole on the way. This pass is considered the most difficult of the three. The hike starts from Lobuche. Climbing to Kongma La Pass is very much easy. The path is dotted with frozen lakes and mummified cranes mark the pass. From the pass you can see Lhotse, Lhotse Shal, Makalu, Baruntse and Ana Dablam. You went down from Kongma La Pass into the easternpart of the Nyigyan Khola Valley and reach the village of Chhukung. Sherpas use the area for yak grazing, but there are no permanent settlements. Recently, the area has become more popular as a trekking peak, and trekkers often use Chhukung for altitude acclimatization.

  14. Day 14Trek from Chhukung (4,730 m / 15,580 ft) to Tengboche (3,855 m )

    • Altitude3,855 m
    • Distance12.9 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge

    You continue your path by descending the Imja Khola Valley and passing through the village of Dingboche, known for its stone-walled potato fields and mountain pastures. Along the way you will also see the kalkas (highland huts) of Tura, Orsho and Shomare. Continuing the trek, you will reach the villages of Pangboche, the year-round habitation in the valley, and then to the Tengboche. From the viewpoint in Tengboche you will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of impressive peaks such as Ama Dablam (6856m), Everest (8848m), Nuptse (7861m) and Lhotse (8501m). You will also visit Tengboche Gompa, the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region.

  15. Day 15Trek from Tengboche (3,855 m ) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m )

    • Altitude3,440 m
    • Distance5.9 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    The trail to Namche Bazaar passes through forests inhabited by highland fauna such as pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats and even snow leopards. It climbs steep slopes lined with chortens and hanging prayer flags. From the trail you can enjoy views of Everest's summit and the backside of Lhotse.

  16. Day 16Trek to Lukla (2,850 m) from from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m )

    • Altitude3,440 m
    • Distance13.5 km
    • StayHotel/Lodge
    • Mealsbreakfast, lunch, dinner

    The last day of the trek will takes you back to the Lukla. After breakfast, you hike up the steep path that leads to the Hillary Suspension Bridge. You continue hiking through several villages in the Dudh Kosi River Valley until you reach Lukla.

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What's included

Included in the price

  • PRIVATE AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer - Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
  • ROUND TRIP DOMESTIC FLIGHT FARE : Fly from Kathmandu - Lukla and while returning Lukla - Kathmandu, as per itinerary. (through manthali during peak trekking season).
  • LODGING : Best available accommodation in mountain lodges and tea houses during the trek.
  • FOOD : 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner; including tea/coffee) during the trek, with Ef-Chlor purification tablets provided for safe drinking water.
  • GUIDE : One experienced government licensed trekking guide (English speaking) during the trek.
  • STAFF SALARY AND ALLOWANCE : All trekking staff wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
  • PERMITS : All necessary paperwork : Sagarmatha National Park permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry permit and fees.
  • STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved trekking staff during the trek.
  • GEAR (IF NEEDED) : Sleeping bag, down jacket and duffle bag (to be returned after the trek).
  • MEDICAL KIT : A well equipped first aid kit, including an oximeter and emergency oxygen, carried by the guide for your safety.
  • IN CASE OF EMERGENCY : Assistance in rescue operations in case of emergency covered by travel insurance.
  • SOUVENIR : Best Heritage Tour’s Appreciation Certificate after the successful trek & Purse, an authentic Nepali product made from hemp.
  • FAREWELL DINNER : A farewell dinner with an authentic cultural program after completion of the trek.

Not included

  • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
  • NEPAL VISA FEES : You may issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport - Kathmandu or apply manually in your home country.
  • ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : Accommodation & Meals in Kathmandu.
  • INSURANCE POLICY : Travel insurance covering medical expenses and high-altitude evacuation is mandatory. If you do not have suitable coverage, Best Heritage Tour can help you in arranging Recommended Travel Insurance for the Everest Three Pass Trek.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES : Recommended Clothing & Gears for the Everest Three Pass Trek, telephone, internet, toiletries, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks and any Alcoholic beverages.
  • OPTIONAL PORTER SERVICE : USD 22 per day; each porter can carry up to 25 kg of luggage.
  • TIPS : Tips for guide and porters.
  • EXTRA : Any additional costs due to factors beyond our control, or for services not specifically mentioned in the Itinerary & Included section.
  • TAXES & SERVICE CHARGE : All government taxes (13%) and service charge (10%)

Common questions about this trip

How difficult is the Everest Three Pass Trek?

The Everest Three Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek suitable for experienced trekkers or physically fit adventurers. The trek involves long walking days, steep ascents, and crossing three passes above 5,300m.

What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point is Kala Patthar at approximately 5,545m, while the highest of the three passes is Kongma La at 5,535m.

What are the three passes?

The trek crosses Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m).

Do I need previous trekking experience?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended. However, physically fit trekkers with good preparation can also undertake the trek with proper acclimatization and guidance.

What is the best season for the Everest Three Pass Trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is generally stable and mountain visibility is excellent.

How should I prepare for the trek?

Regular cardio, hiking, strength training, and long-distance walking before the trek are recommended. Good physical preparation will make the high-altitude sections more comfortable.

What kind of accommodation is available?

Accommodation is generally in comfortable local teahouses/lodges, offering basic rooms and shared facilities in the higher areas.

What kind of food is available during the trek?

Teahouses offer a variety of meals including Dal Bhat, noodles, pasta, soup, rice, vegetables, eggs, Tibetan bread, and other local and international options. Vegetarian options are widely available.

Do I need a guide and porter?

For a challenging trek like Three Pass, traveling with an experienced licensed guide is strongly recommended. A porter can also carry your main luggage, allowing you to trek more comfortably.

What happens if the weather affects the trek?

Mountain weather can change quickly. Your guide will adjust the itinerary when necessary to prioritize safety and suitable trail conditions. Delays or route changes may occasionally be required.

What makes the Three Pass Trek different from Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Three Pass Trek is more challenging and offers a much more comprehensive experience of the Everest region, combining three high passes, Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, glaciers, remote valleys, and spectacular Himalayan scenery.

Something else on your mind? Ask us — or read the general questions.

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