The Everest Three Passes Trek is the most comprehensive and adventurous trekking route in the Everest region, designed for those who crave a challenging and rewarding Himalayan experience. This 19-day trek takes you through three of the highest and most scenic mountain passes in Nepal — Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m) — connecting remote valleys and dramatic landscapes while offering breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many more snow-capped giants.
More than just a physical challenge, this trek is a deep dive into the rich Sherpa culture, peaceful monasteries, and picturesque high-altitude villages. Along the way, you’ll explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, stand atop famous viewpoints like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, and reach the iconic Everest Base Camp. With expert guidance from Nepal Treks and Tour, the Everest Three Passes Trek promises an unforgettable journey of adventure, scenery, and cultural discovery in the heart of the Khumbu.
The Everest Three Passes Trek begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a scenic hike through the lush Dudh Koshi Valley to Phakding and Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Khumbu region. After acclimatization in Namche, the trail veers off the classic Everest Base Camp route toward the quiet and culturally rich village of Thame, before heading to Lumde and tackling the first of the three passes — Renjo La Pass (5,360m). This spectacular crossing offers panoramic views of Gokyo Valley, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and the Himalayan giants, including Cho Oyu.
After exploring Gokyo Ri (5,360m) and the lakes, the route continues over the glacial Cho La Pass (5,420m) to reach Dzongla and rejoin the classic EBC trail at Lobuche. From there, trekkers ascend to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and climb Kala Patthar (5,550m) for stunning sunrise views of Mount Everest. The final challenge is the remote and rugged Kongma La Pass (5,535m), which leads to Chhukung in the Imja Valley. The descent takes you through Pangboche and Namche Bazaar, before returning to Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu. This circuit-style route ensures that each day offers fresh scenery, diverse landscapes, and a true sense of Himalayan exploration.
If you’re seeking a different experience in the Everest region, here are some equally thrilling alternatives to the Everest Three Passes Trek, each offering unique highlights and routes:
If you need any further information, please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone/WhatsApp at +977-9851013072.
Q: How difficult is the Everest Three Passes Trek?
A: The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered challenging and is suitable for trekkers with good physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. It includes three demanding mountain pass crossings, all above 5,000 meters, along with glacier sections and long trekking days.
Q: What is the best time to do the Three Passes Trek?
A: The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, dry weather, and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks. Winter is too harsh, and the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and risk of landslides.
Q: Do I need prior trekking experience for this trek?
A: Yes. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. You should be comfortable hiking 6–8 hours a day on rough terrain, with steep ascents and descents.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
A: Yes, since the trek involves multiple days above 4,000 meters and crossings over 5,000 meters. Proper acclimatization, slow ascent, hydration, and listening to your guide’s advice are essential to avoid acute mountain sickness (AMS).
Q: What permits are required for the Three Passes Trek?
A: You’ll need the following permits, all arranged by Nepal Treks and Tour:
Q: What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
A: You’ll stay in teahouses/lodges along the trail, which offer basic but cozy rooms with twin beds, blankets, and simple meals. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging facilities are available at an additional cost in some villages.
Q: Is travel insurance mandatory?
A: Yes. You must have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters) and includes emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation coverage.
Q: What should I pack for the Everest Three Passes Trek?
A: Essentials include a down jacket, sleeping bag, layered clothing, hiking boots, trekking poles, and personal medication. Nepal Treks and Tour provides a detailed packing list and offers sleeping bags and down jackets on request.
Q: How are meals managed during the trek?
A: All three meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are provided during the trek. You’ll enjoy local Nepali dishes like dal bhat, noodles, rice, soup, eggs, and pancakes. Vegan and vegetarian options are available in most teahouses.
Q: Can I do this trek solo?
A: While solo trekking is possible, we highly recommend going with a licensed guide and porter from Nepal Treks and Tour for safety, navigation, and cultural insight—especially on remote and high-altitude sections of the trail.
All foreign nationals (except for Indian citizens) require a visa to enter Nepal. Tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in advance from a Nepalese embassy or consulate. The visa process is simple—just bring a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity), passport-sized photos, and the visa fee in USD or other major currencies. Visa fees are typically USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. We recommend getting a 30-day visa for the Everest Three Passes Trek, with the option to extend if needed.
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for the Everest Three Passes Trek due to the remote terrain and high altitude. Your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters), emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, trip cancellation, and loss of baggage or valuables. In the event of altitude sickness or injury, helicopter evacuation is the only option for descent, and this can be costly without proper coverage. Please bring a printed copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers for verification before the trek begins.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires excellent cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and stamina. Trekkers should be prepared to walk 6–8 hours daily over steep, uneven terrain and high-altitude passes. We recommend a training program that includes hiking, running, and strength exercises at least 2–3 months in advance. Prior experience with multi-day trekking and familiarity with hiking at altitude is highly beneficial. Consulting a physician before the trek is advisable, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
The weather in the Everest region is highly variable and depends on the season. The best time for the Three Passes Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the skies are generally clear, temperatures are stable, and mountain views are spectacular. Daytime temperatures in these months range from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) at lower altitudes and can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower at higher elevations. Winter (December to February) brings snow and extreme cold, while monsoon season (June to August) has heavy rain, leeches, and cloud cover—making both unsuitable for this trek.
Altitude is a major factor in the Everest Three Passes Trek, as the route consistently crosses above 5,000 meters, including Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m). At such elevations, there is a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which can be dangerous if not managed properly. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche and Gokyo to help your body adapt. Trekking at a steady pace, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol, and listening to your guide’s advice are key to preventing altitude-related illnesses. Your guide is trained in recognizing symptoms of AMS and will carry a basic medical kit and pulse oximeter for monitoring your health throughout the trek.
The Everest region is home to the Sherpa people, whose culture is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. As you pass through traditional villages, monasteries, and sacred landmarks, it’s important to show respect for local customs and religious beliefs. Always walk clockwise around mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags. Remove your shoes before entering monasteries, and avoid loud behavior or touching religious objects unless invited. Dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially monks or locals. Practicing cultural sensitivity not only enriches your experience but also fosters positive connections with the communities you visit.
Tipping is a widely accepted practice in Nepal’s trekking industry and a way to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of your guide, assistant guides, and porters. While tips are not mandatory, they are expected. As a general guideline, budget around USD 10–15 per day for your guide and USD 5–10 per day for your porter. Tips can be given individually or as a group at the end of the trek. Additionally, small tips for drivers and hotel staff during your stay in Kathmandu are appreciated. Your trek leader can help coordinate fair and respectful tipping arrangements.
Trekking in the Himalayas comes with inherent risks, but your safety is the top priority at Nepal Treks and Tour. We operate with experienced, government-licensed guides who are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management. Our team monitors weather conditions, maintains contact with local rescue services, and carries a medical kit on all treks. In addition to health precautions, the Everest region is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly communities. However, we advise you to safeguard your valuables, avoid trekking alone, and always inform your guide before exploring nearby areas.
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). While Kathmandu has ATMs and currency exchange counters, once you begin your trek, cash becomes essential—especially in the Everest region where ATMs are scarce and card payments are not accepted. We recommend exchanging or withdrawing enough rupees in Kathmandu to cover personal expenses, snacks, charging fees, showers, and tips during the trek. It’s best to carry small denominations for easier transactions. Keep your money and important documents in a secure, waterproof pouch or money belt to avoid loss or damage.
Your journey with Nepal Treks and Tour begins with private airport transfers upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu. A domestic flight between Kathmandu and Lukla marks the official start and end of your trek, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. All city sightseeing is conducted in a comfortable private vehicle with an experienced driver and guide. Please note that Lukla flights are weather-dependent, and occasional delays may occur. Ground support is always available to assist in managing any unforeseen schedule changes.
Electricity is available in most teahouses along the trekking route, though power outages and voltage fluctuations can happen. In lower regions like Namche Bazaar, you’ll usually find regular charging outlets for a small fee. However, as you ascend higher, access to electricity becomes limited and more expensive. To ensure you stay connected and keep devices powered, we highly recommend bringing a power bank, solar charger, or extra batteries. Charging costs range from NPR 200 to 500 per device, depending on the altitude.
Nepal is a culturally rich country with vibrant festivals throughout the year. If you’re trekking in autumn, you may witness major Hindu celebrations like Dashain and Tihar, which bring colorful decorations and joyous village gatherings. In the Khumbu region, Sherpa festivals such as Mani Rimdu (held in Tengboche Monastery, usually in October or November) offer a rare chance to see traditional Buddhist dances and rituals. During public holidays, some services in Kathmandu may close temporarily, so plan any city errands accordingly.
During the trek, you’ll enjoy full-board meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—at teahouses. The food is simple, nutritious, and prepared fresh using local ingredients. The staple dish is Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), which provides great energy for trekking. You’ll also find items like pasta, soup, noodles, eggs, pancakes, potatoes, and occasionally yak cheese or momo dumplings. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. To avoid stomach issues, we advise eating cooked food only, avoiding raw vegetables and untreated water (bring water purification tablets or use boiled water).
Weather plays a major role in Himalayan trekking, especially for flights to and from Lukla, which are often delayed or canceled due to fog or wind. Our itinerary includes buffer days, and Nepal Treks and Tour is experienced in handling such situations by rearranging accommodations or adjusting the trek route as needed. We strongly recommend booking flexible international flights and purchasing travel insurance that covers delays, cancellations, and additional expenses. In case of emergency evacuations, helicopter services are available at extra cost, covered by your insurance.
The primary language in Nepal is Nepali, but English is widely spoken in the tourism industry. Your guide will be fluent in English and assist in communicating with locals. In remote villages, English may be limited, but warm hospitality bridges the gap. Mobile phone signals are available in some areas along the trek (especially near Namche and Gorak Shep), and Wi-Fi is offered in teahouses for a fee. For consistent communication, you can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu (NCELL or NTC) with a data package.
A well-prepared packing list is essential for a high-altitude trek like this. Key items include a down jacket, four-season sleeping bag, layered clothing, thermal base layers, windproof outerwear, sturdy trekking boots, warm gloves and hats, trekking poles, headlamp, and UV-protection sunglasses. Don’t forget personal medication, water purification tablets, snacks, and a first aid kit. Nepal Treks and Tour provides a complimentary duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket (on returnable basis).
Staying hydrated is critical at high altitude, but tap water is not safe to drink. Trekkers should use boiled water, water purification tablets, or steri-pens. Most teahouses offer boiled water for a small fee. Carry a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder to reduce plastic waste and stay eco-friendly.
At Nepal Treks and Tour, we promote responsible and eco-conscious trekking. We encourage all trekkers to minimize waste, avoid single-use plastics, and carry out all non-biodegradable items. Respect local wildlife, trails, and cultural heritage. Opt for locally-owned teahouses and support community businesses whenever possible.
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May 13, 2025Review by-Steve MillerI recently completed the Everest Three Passes Trek with Nepal Treks and Tour, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From start to finish, the company was incredibly professional, well-organized, and attentive to every detail. The trek itself is challenging, crossing Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes, but the breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Gokyo Lakes, and the remote valleys made every step worth it. Our guide was experienced, knowledgeable, and very supportive throughout the journey. He shared insights about the local Sherpa culture, ensured our safety at high altitudes, and kept the group motivated. The porters were equally amazing—friendly, helpful, and always smiling. Accommodation and meals were well-arranged, even in remote areas. The itinerary was well-paced, allowing proper acclimatization and rest days. Communication before and during the trek was smooth, and all our questions were answered promptly. Nepal Treks and Tour made this tough trek feel manageable and enjoyable. Their attention to detail and personalized service stood out. I highly recommend this company for anyone looking to take on the Everest Three Passes Trek or any other Himalayan adventure in Nepal. A truly unforgettable experience!