Everest Three High Passes Trek: Itinerary, Cost & Guide

Introduction to Everest Three High Passes Trek

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a challenging adventure in Nepal that involves crossing three high mountain passes in the Everest region: Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La. Along the way, trekkers can also visit iconic locations such as the Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri peak, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Chhukung Ri, and Tengboche Monastery. This trek offers an incredible opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of the Everest area while tackling its high passes.

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is renowned as one of the most stunning high-altitude trekking routes in the world. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking Khumbu Valley, home to Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on the planet. This trek will guide you through traditional Sherpa villages and monasteries, offering a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the region.

The trekking route is home to various plants and animals, including the Himalayan tahr, the snow leopard, and Nepal's national bird, the danphe. This trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and other peaks in the Himalayan range.

The Everest Three High Passes trek typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete and requires a good level of physical fitness, as well as proper acclimatization to high altitudes. It is highly recommended to be guided by a professional mountain guide and to have valid travel insurance.

The Everest Three High Passes Trek usually begins at Lukla Mountain Airport. There are daily flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, but it is essential to book seats in advance. If you prefer not to fly to Lukla, you can start your trek from Salleri or Jiri Bazaar, which will require several additional days of trekking through the Solu and lower Khumbu Valley.

During the trek, you will follow a lesser-known path from Namche Bazar to Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) and Gokyo Lake (4,750 m). Along the way, you’ll explore the remote and pristine Nangpa La Valley, visit the Sherpa village of Marlung, and discover the monastery village of Thame.

From Gokyo, you have the option to hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) or to Fifth Lake (4,980 m), the latter being a more strenuous day hike. After visiting Gokyo Lake, you can follow the path to cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m), which is one of the most popular and frequently visited passes in the Everest region.

Once you cross Cho La Pass, you'll continue your trek to Gorakshep (5,140 m) to visit Everest Base Camp and to climb the non-technical peak of Kala Patthar. From this vantage point, you'll enjoy stunning views of Mount Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), and many other majestic snow-capped mountains.

After enjoying the view from Kala Patthar, hike back to Gorakshep and continue your trek to Lobuche. From Lobuche, you will need to cross Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), which is more challenging than the previous two passes. The trek from Lobuche to Chhukhung is a long one but offers an adventurous experience.

From Chhukhung, you will hike in the morning to Chhukhung Ri (5,550 m) and then return to Chhukhung. After this, you will trek for several more days until you reach Lukla, where the trek concludes. From Lukla, take a morning flight to Kathmandu.

The Everest Three High Passes Trek can be completed in both clockwise and counterclockwise (anti-clockwise) directions. The clockwise route is more challenging, while the counterclockwise route is significantly easier. If you prefer to take the trek counterclockwise, we recommend contacting us for a revised itinerary.

Highlights of the Everest Three High Passes Trek

Cross three high passes: Renjo La, Cho La & Kongma La
Stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam & more
Visit Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar
Explore traditional Sherpa villages and Tengboche Monastery
Spot Himalayan wildlife like danphe and tahr
Diverse landscapes: glaciers, alpine valleys & forests
Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a high-altitude challenge
Starts/ends at Lukla with optional overland routes

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive in Kathmandu

Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

Day 03

Kathmandu flight to Lukla trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

Day 04

Phakding trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Day 05

Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Day 06

Namche Bazaar trek to Thame (3,800 m)

Day 07

Thame trek to Lungden (4,300 m)

Day 08

Lungden trek to Gokyo Lake over the Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)

Day 09

Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) then trek to Thangna/Dragnag (4,700 m)

Day 10

Thagna trek to Dzongla (4,830 m) over the Cho La Pass (5,420 m)

Day 11

Dzongla to Lobuche (4,910 m)

Day 12

Lobuche trek to Gorak Shep (5,140 m) and hike to Everest base camp (5,364 m)

Day 13

Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) then trek to Lobuche (4,910 m)

Day 14

Lobuche trek to Chhukhung over the Kongma La Pass (5,535 m)

Day 15

Chhukung hike to Chhukung RI (5550m) then trek to Dingboche (4,410 m)

Day 16

Dingboche trek to Tengboche (3,867 m)

Day 17

Tengboche trek to Monjo (2,840 m)

Day 18

Monjo trek to Lukla (2,840 m)

Day 19

Lukla flight to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Day 20

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

Day 21

Depart Kathmandu

Gear Up for Your Trek

Here’s a concise guide of essentials to prepare smartly for your trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview & Essentials

Typically, packages include accommodation, meals during the trek, guide and porter services, permits, and ground transportation. Flight costs, insurance, and personal expenses are usually excluded.

While prior trekking experience helps, most treks are designed to be achievable with average fitness. Some high-altitude treks may require conditioning or preparation beforehand.

There is no strict age limit, but participants should be reasonably fit. Trekkers above 60 or with health conditions should consult a doctor before the trip.

Arrival & Visas

Most travelers require a tourist visa, which can often be obtained on arrival or online. Check your country’s embassy website for up-to-date visa policies.

Airport pickup is often included in the tour package. If not, taxis or pre-arranged transport options are available and reliable.

Yes, arriving early is a great way to rest and adjust before your trek. We can help arrange additional accommodations if needed.

Health & Safety

Guides are trained in first aid and will assist you immediately. In serious cases, evacuation (often by helicopter) can be arranged. Travel insurance with emergency coverage is strongly recommended.

Yes, especially above 2,500 meters. Our itineraries are designed with gradual acclimatization and rest days to help prevent it. Drinking water, eating well, and resting are key.

Yes, all certified guides are trained in altitude awareness, first aid, and emergency protocols to ensure your safety throughout the trek.

Weather & Temperature

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most popular trekking seasons with stable weather and clear skies.

Temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes. Days are usually moderate, but proper layering is important.

Yes, extreme weather can cause delays, especially for flights or high passes. We always try to adjust plans safely and flexibly.

Accommodation & Facilities

Accommodations are usually in local lodges or tea houses with basic amenities—clean beds, shared bathrooms, and dining halls.

Some lodges offer hot showers for an additional fee, but availability may be limited at higher altitudes.

Charging is available in most lodges for a fee. Power supply may be limited or solar-based, so bring a power bank as backup.

Packing & Gear

You’ll need layered clothing, good trekking boots, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided), and basic toiletries. A detailed packing list will be shared upon booking.

Yes, you can rent most essential gear like down jackets, sleeping bags, and poles from local shops at affordable rates.

Keep your daypack light with only essentials (water, snacks, jacket). The porter will carry your main bag, usually limited to 10–15 kg.

Location

Region

Duration

Group Size

Max Elevation

Difficulty

Accommodation

Best Seasons

Start Point

End Point

Permit

Food