Everest Three High Passes Trek - 18 Days

Everest Three High Passes Trek - 18 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude 5555m
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Trip Style Private trip
  • Best Season March, April, May, September, Octomber and November
Highlights
  • An epic trekking adventure in the Everest region full of challenges and excellent mountain views
  • A journey made for true adventure lovers who are willing to push themselves beyond the mainstream trail
  • Trek through dense forests, rocky gorges, glacial moraines, and steep tracks
  • Enjoy overnight stays in beautiful Sherpa villages and have delicious local melas
  • Get to have a close look at the Sherpa community and learn about their culture and traditions
  • Explore the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar
  • Cross three high mountain passes and go on side excursions to hidden viewpoints
  • Enjoy the serene surroundings of Gokyo Lakes
  • Witness diverse landscapes and mountain panoramas

The Everest Three High Passes trek is an epic adventure in the Khumbu region. This trek takes you to the Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,598 ft), explores the dazzling Gokyo Lakes (4,700 m to 5,000 m), and crosses the three high passes- Cho La (5,420 m/17,782 ft), Renjo La (5,360 m/17,585 ft), and Kongma La (5,540 m/18,176 ft). The Everest three-pass trek is a lifetime journey in the Himalayas of Nepal that demands you push your limits and offers incredible mountain panoramas in return. 

The Everest three high passes trek is like climbing the peaks itself. It is a physically and mentally challenging trip, so only recommended to trekkers with previous trekking knowledge. Join us on our Everest three high passes trek 2024/2025 departure and have the ultimate Mount Everest experience. We, Bespoke Excursion, offer top-notch service and the finest Everest three high passes trek cost in the market.

What to expect during the Everest base camp trek?

Unlike the famous Everest Base Camp trek, the Everest three high passes trek 18 days explores the hidden corner of the Khumbu region. You will walk deep into the Khumbu region and come across some of the wildest mountain landscapes. The changing vegetation and climate give way to diverse sceneries. 

From trekking via lush rhododendron forests, you will ascend above the tree line and walk through glacier moraines and boulder fields. The initial part of the trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and crosses it numerous times via hanging suspension bridges. The terrain changes as the elevation rises, and you will navigate many steep tracks.

With adventure, you will also get to experience the mountain lifestyle and learn the culture and traditions of the locals. Sherpas are one of the main communities of the Khumbu region. Likewise, along the trail, you will also get to visit ancient monasteries like Tengboche, Pangboche, and Thame. The trail is also dotted with many stupas, chortens, and prayer flags.

Overall, the Everest Three High Passes trek is a wonderful venture in Nepal that will push you to unlock your limits. You will touch great heights on this trek and come across unbelievable landscapes. Far away in the remoteness of the Everest region, you will get to unwind and reconnect to yourself.

This is what your typical day looks like on the Everest Base Camp trek

We wake up early every morning and have a delicious, fresh breakfast made from organic ingredients. After a light stretch, begin trekking following the lead of your mountain guide. In between the trek, take short breaks to drink water and catch your breath. We will have lunch by 1:00 PM and continue trekking toward the village where you will spend the night.

Every day as you trek, the elevation rises and climate changes. The trail gradually opens up from dense forests to rock gorges and barren hills. The mountains get closer and more prominent. In fact, you will witness a lot of mountains during the Everest three high passes trekking, and many beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

These are some of the mountains you will witness on the three passes trek- Mt. Everest (8,849 m/29,032 ft), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m/27,940 ft), Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812 m/22,349 ft), Thamserku (6,608 m/21,680 ft), Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m/28,169 ft), Mt. Makalu (8,463 m/27,766 ft), Cho Oyu (8,188 m/26,864 ft), Mt. Cholatse (6,440 m/21,130 ft), etc. 

Likewise, you will go on acclimatization hikes to the Hotel Everest View (3,962 m/13,000 ft), Nagarjuna Hill (5,100 m/16,732 ft), Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,192 ft), and Gokyo Ri (5,357 m/17,575 ft). Do not forget to do light stretching at the end of the day. It will help you relieve stress in your muscles from all the walking. Have lots of food and drink lots of water. Do not hesitate to talk to fellow trekkers and the locals. 

Is Everest Base Camp trekking right for you?

If you have previous trek experience, can walk 6 hours a day, are familiar with high altitudes, and understand the limitations and challenges of the Himalayas, you can do the Everest three high passes trek 18 days with us. Our expert guides and porters will assist you in completing the journey and make it as hassle-free as possible.  

Do not underestimate the Everest three high passes trek. It is a demanding trek in the Himalayas!

To learn about the Everest three high passes trek 2024/2025 booking, feel free to contact us anytime. Likewise, let us know if you have any queries regarding our three-pass trek cost or wish to customize the itinerary.

Itinerary

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  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Welcome dinner

On your arrival day in Kathmandu's international airport, our team will be there to welcome and escort you to the hotel. For a hassle-free transfer to the hotel, we use a private four-wheeler, and our team will assist you with your luggage. Later in the day, we will have a trek briefing and pack our duffel bags. You can do any last-minute shopping for the trek. End the day with a delicious welcome dinner. 

 

    • Trek distance: 6.2 km/3.8 miles
    • Elevation: 2,846 m/9,337 ft
    • Duration: 35 minutes flight & 3 hours trek
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    Today, we will begin our adventure in the Everest region. From Kathmandu, first, we have to fly to Lukla airport. It is a short, scenic flight. From Lukla, we will descend to Phakding village to spend the night. It is an easy walk via forests and small settlements. On the way, we will cross many suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi river. This small descent will help us acclimatize.

     

      • Trek distance: 7.4 km/4.6 miles
      • Elevation: 3,440 m/11,290 ft
      • Duration: 6 hours
      • Accommodation: Lodge
      • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      On this day, we will trek to Namche Bazaar. It is a full day of trekking. The trail continues through lush rhododendron forests and villages like Toktok, Bengkar, and Monjo. Before reaching Monjo, we will also cross the long Hillary Suspension Bridge. 

      We will register our permits at a police check post right outside Monjo and enter the Sagarmatha National Park. The trail then ascends and descends via forests, crossing bridges. The trail gets steep during the last ascent to Namche Bazaar. 

       

        • Duration: 4-5 hours
        • Elevation: 3,962 m/13,000 ft
        • Accommodation: Lodge
        • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        It is time to take an acclimatization break before we trek any further. Our goal today is to hike to a higher point and return to Namche Bazaar to spend the night. For the hike, we will walk to the Hotel Everest View. During the hike, we can witness views of mountains like Thamserku, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, etc. 

        We can also continue the hike to Khumjung monastery from here. Later, visit the Everest Photo Gallery, Sherpa Culture Museum, and other museums around the village. Spend the remaining day resting and enjoying the company of the locals.

          • Trek distance: 9.2 km/5.7 miles
          • Elevation: 3,860 m/12,660 ft
          • Duration:  5 hours
          • Accommodation: Lodge
          • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

          From Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, the trail first ascends uphill and descends to Phungi Tanga. Crossing a bridge, we will ascend through lush forests and hike all the way up to Tengboche village. This village offers stunning views of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam. Tengboche monastery is also a great highlight of this village. It is the biggest monastery in the Everest region.

            • Trek distance: 12 km/7.45 miles
            • Elevation: 4,410 m/14,470 ft
            • Duration: 5 hours
            • Accommodation: Lodge
            • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            From Tengboche village, we will continue trekking to Dingboche. The trail follows rhododendron forests to Deboche. We will descend to Imja Khola and cross a suspension bridge. From here, the trail ascends to Pangboche village. Here, we will quickly visit the oldest monastery in the Everest region. The trail further goest past settlements like Shomare and Orsho to Dingboche.

              • Duration: 4-5 hours 
              • Elevation: 5,100 m/16,732 ft
              • Accommodation: Lodge
              • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

              Today, we will spend our second acclimatization day in Dingboche village. These rest days not only let us avoid altitude sickness and recover but also explore nearby hidden places and spend quality time with the locals. For the hike, we will go to Nagarjuna Hill or Nangkartshang Gompa. The views of the mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, etc are breathtaking from here.

                • Trek distance: 16 km/10 miles
                • Elevation: 5,540 m/18,176 ft
                • Duration: 8 hours
                • Accommodation: Lodge
                • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                On this day, we will cross the first pass, Kongma La. From Dingboche, the trail steeply ascends, following a rocky trail to Bibre. From here, the trail gradually ascends to Kongma La High Camp and continues to the top of the pass. The mountain views are spectacular from here. Further, the trail descends and continues uphill to Lobuche village via Khumbu glacier.

                  • Trek distance: 15 km/9.32 miles
                  • Elevation: 5,364 m/17,598 ft
                  • Duration: 8 hours
                  • Accommodation: Lodge
                  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                  We will be reaching the Everest Base Camp today. Leaving Lobuche early in the morning, we will trek following steep, rugged tracks to Gorak Shep. The trail is full of rocks and boulders. On the way, we will get to witness beautiful views of mountains and hills. After exploring the base camp of Mount Everest, return to Gorak Shep to spend the night.

                    Trek distance: 9.6 km/6 miles

                    Elevation: 5,545 m/18,192 ft

                    Duration: 6 hours

                    Accommodation: Lodge

                    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                     

                    We will go on a morning hike to the famous Kala Patthar. It will be around a 2 hours hike. We will witness a gorgeous sunrise along with a breathtaking mountain panorama from Kala Patthar. After the hike, we will retrace the trail back to Gorak Shep and continue to Lobuche village. From Lobuche, we will follow a different route that leads to Dzongla. 

                     

                      Trek distance: 9.38 km/5.8 miles

                      Elevation: 5,420 m/17,782 ft

                      Duration: 7-8 hours

                      Accommodation: Lodge

                      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                      It is time to cross the second pass of our Everest three-pass trek. We are in a very remote part of the Everest region. The trail from Dzongla to Cho La Pass follows a narrow, steep track and ascends. From the top of the pass, the mountain landscape is surreal. The view of Mt. Ama Dablam and Baruntse are exceptional. The trail further descends, following rocky tracks to Thaknak.

                        Trek distance: 3.7 km/2.3 miles

                        Elevation: 4,750 m/15,584 ft

                        Duration: 5-6 hours

                        Accommodation: Lodge

                        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                        We will continue trekking to Gokyo Valley. Our night stop is the beautiful Gokyo village. Traversing the biggest glacier in Nepal, Ngozumpa Glacier, we will trek past boulders and glacial lakes. The mountain views are mesmerizing. The Gokyo village is situated near the third Gokyo lake, Dudh Pokhari.

                          Elevation: 5,357 m/17,575 ft

                          Duration: 4-5 hours

                          Accommodation: Lodge

                          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                          We have our last acclimatization day in Gokyo village. For the hike, we will visit Gokyo Ri. This place offers striking views of mountains such as Makalu, Everest, Cho Oyu, Island Peak, Baruntse, etc. From here, we will further walk up to the fourth and fifth lakes. It will be a very serene and enchanting day.

                            Trek distance: 11 km/6.8 miles

                            Elevation: 5,360 m/17,585 ft

                            Duration: 7-8 hours

                            Accommodation: Lodge

                            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                            Following the northern side of Gokyo Lake, we will ascend to Renjo La Pass. The trail is steep and filled with boulders up to the top of the pass. The scenery from the top of the pass is outstanding. We will then descend following loose rocks and scree. Further, pass by a glacial lake and continue trekking via pastures to Lungden. After almost an hour from Lungden, we will reach Marlung.

                              Trek distance: 18 km/11 miles

                              Elevation: 3,440 m/11,290 ft

                              Duration: 6 hours

                              Accommodation: Lodge

                              Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                              The trail back to Namche Bazaar from Marlung passes by an ancient Tibetan trade route. We will come across the Bhote Koshi river and descend, passing by Taranga to Thame. In Thame, we will visit a monastery and continue descending to Namche Bazaar.

                                Trek distance: 13.6 km/8.3 miles

                                Elevation: 2,846 m/9,337 ft

                                Duration: 8 hours

                                Accommodation: Lodge

                                Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                                The trail from Namche Bazaar to Lukla is the same. Steeply descend and trek following a densely forested route, crossing suspension bridges and small villages to Phakding. From here, ascend to Lukla, enjoying the tranquility of the forests.

                                  Duration: 35 minutes flight

                                  Elevation: 1,400 m/4,600 ft

                                  Accommodation: Hotel

                                  Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner

                                  Today, we will fly back to Kathmandu after our long adventurous trip to Everest. The flight will be short but quite memorable. In Kathmandu, our team will be waiting for you to welcome you back with a congratulatory dinner and lots of appreciation for your achievement. Today is your last day in Kathmandu, so do not forget to explore the local markets and buy souvenirs.

                                    Meals: Breakfast only

                                    Our representative will drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You will be at the airport three hours before your flight departure time.

                                      Cost Details
                                      Includes
                                      • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                                      • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                                      • The two nights stay in Kathmandu with breakfast (twin sharing).
                                      • Domestic flights from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu or Ramechhap.
                                      • All necessary trekking permits, like the Sagarmatha National Park entrance fees and local government entrance fees.
                                      • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                                      • All accommodations during the mountain.
                                      • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, when and if available.
                                      • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                                      • Government-approved, first-aid trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide, and of the 2 guests 1 porter
                                      • First-aid kit.
                                      • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                                      • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                                      • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                                      • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                                      Excludes
                                      • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                                      • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu.
                                      • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                                      • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                                      • Personal guide and porter.
                                      • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                                      • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                                      • Tipping to staff.
                                      • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                                      Dates & Prices

                                      Group Discount Price
                                      Number of PeoplePrice Per Person
                                      1 pax
                                      US$1800
                                      2 - 4 pax
                                      US$1699
                                      5 - 10 pax
                                      US$1599
                                      11 - 20 pax
                                      US$1499

                                      Useful Information

                                      Difficulty 

                                      Trek distance: The Everest three high passes trek roughly covers 160 kilometers (99 miles). On average, you will trek 9 to 11 kilometers (5.5 to 7 miles) per day. Some days may include 15-16 kilometers (9 to 10 miles) of walking.

                                      Difficulty level: The Everest three high passes trek is a challenging trek. Trekkers have to be physically and mentally strong to do this trek. Previous trekking experience or high-altitude experience is needed.

                                      Terrain: The terrain varies during the 3 passes trek. You will start trekking following lush forests and gradually ascend and descend until you go above the treeline. The trail is steep in some sections. Above the treeline, you will follow the offbeat route and trek via steep, narrow tracks. The trail navigates gorges, moraines, and glaciers above the treeline.

                                      Altitude sickness: We have three rest days in our Everest three high passes trek itinerary. It is ample time to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness. If you see symptoms like vomiting, shortness of breath, insomnia, loss of appetite, headache, etc, inform the guide and take first aid.

                                      Preventive measures: To prevent altitude sickness during the Everest three high passes trekking, maintain your pace and keep yourself hydrated. If you feel any discomfort, inform your guide. Take frequent short breaks and enjoy nature.

                                      Trek preparation: Everest three high passes trek preparation includes getting you physically and mentally ready for the challenges of the Everest region. Build your core strength, endurance, stamina, and walking habits. Practice mindfulness and learn about the region.

                                      The best time to do the Everest three high passes trek in Nepal

                                      Spring: Spring is considered one of the best trekking times in the Himalayas. You will enjoy trekking in the spring season (March, April, Ma) as there is stable weather, moderate climate, and excellent mountain views. Likewise, the lower parts of the trail are bloomed with rhododendrons, making the region mesmerizing. 

                                      Autumn: Autumn (September, October, November) is a post-monsoon time. It is the best time for trekking in the Everest region because of the fantastic weather and climate. The landscapes are phenomenal, and the air also carries rejuvenating freshness. Autumn is also a festival season in Nepal, so your time here will be wonderful. 

                                      Summer/monsoon: Summer/monsoon (June, July, August) makes trekking in the Everest region difficult. Due to bad weather and constant rainfall, the Lukla flights are mostly delayed or canceled. Likewise, the trail condition is also poor, and the views can be obstructed. It is an offtime for the Everest three high passes trek. 

                                      Winter: Winter trekking in the Everest region is possible, but crossing the three passes may not be viable. If you are planning to do the Everest three high passes trek in early December, then it will be fine. After that, the pass route gets blocked with snowfall. There is also a high risk of avalanche and snow storms. 

                                      Accommodation and Meals

                                      Rooms: During the trek, you will spend nights in lodges along the Everest three high passes trail. The rooms will be twin shared. Single rooms may not be available in some villages. The rooms are small but clean and cozy. We recommend carrying a high-quality sleeping bag for this trek. 

                                      Washroom: The washrooms are shared in the lodges. In some lodges, you may get a private washroom. The water is cold, but you can get hot water to wash your face. Pack all the toiletries, including hand soap, toilet paper, toothpaste, etc. 

                                      Hot shower: Hot showers are available in most villages at an additional USD 5 or so. In villages like Gorak Shep, Dzongla, etc, you may not get hot shower service. So, carry body wipes and face-wet tissues to keep yourself refreshed.

                                      Charging: Charging slots cost extra money. You can expect to pay USD 2 to USD 4 for each slot or device. A power bank, spare batteries, or a solar charger will save you some money. 

                                      WiFi: In villages like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche, the internet service is available. It is also a paid service. The connection may not be stable all the time, but you will get a chance to drop texts to your loved ones. Buy a Nepali tourist sima and use data for better connection. 

                                      Breakfast: Breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM in all lodges. The menu is the same almost everywhere. Options like chapati, sandwich, toast, eggs, thukpa, porridge, oats, muesli, tea, coffee, etc are available for breakfast. 

                                      Lunch and dinner: The lunch and dinner menu usually consists of dal bhat, pasta, momo, noodles, pizza, burgers, curries, roti, porridge, soup, mashed potatoes, etc. For dessert, there are pies, rice pudding, pastries, etc. 

                                      Drinking water and beverages: Boiled drinking water is available in all lodges. You can refill your water bottle. Plastic bottled drinking water will cost you unwanted money and also not good for the environment. For beverages, there are energy drinks, tea, coffee, juice, local alcoholic beverages, etc available. 

                                      Additional Information

                                      Travel insurance: Travel insurance is necessary for Everest three high passes trekking. You cannot do this trek without travel insurance. It should cover emergency air evacuation and medical bills. Check the clause of your travel insurance before buying it. Carry the documents with you during the trek. 

                                      Passport and visa: A valid passport is needed to do a trek in Nepal. Your passport should have at least 6 months of validity from the day you enter Nepal. Likewise, you can obtain a Nepali travel visa from the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office in your country. Likewise, travelers from many countries also apply for an on-arrival visa upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. 

                                      Money exchange: You have to use Nepali currency while trekking or in Kathmandu. Credit cards are acceptable in hotels, restaurants, and malls in Kathmandu. You can exchange money at banks or money exchange centers in Thamel. Similarly, you can also withdraw money via ATMs. 

                                      Tips: Tipping is an important part of trekking in Nepal. You are expected to tip guides, porters, and drivers if you are happy with their service. We highly recommend budget some money for tips. For example, you can tip USD 5 to the tour guide, USD 2 to the driver, and USD 100 to the mountain guide and porter. 

                                      Luggage: Your backpack weight limit is 5 kg, and your duffel bag weight limit is 10 kg. A duffle bag is the main luggage during trekking. It is carried by our porter. You can store any extra suitcase in our office or your hotel's locker room free of cost during the trek duration. 

                                      Personal expense: Budget money for international airfare, tips, shopping, travel insurance, additional snacks and drinks, etc. Check out our package cost includes and excludes for more information.

                                      FAQs

                                      • The three passes are Renjo La (5,360 m/17,585 ft), Cho La (5,420 m/17,782 ft), and Kongma La (5,540 m/18,176 ft). These passes connect different valleys and villages of the Everest region. Crossing these three passes is a challenging endeavor and offers a lifetime adventure to the trekkers.

                                      • If we do not include arrival and departure to/from Kathmandu, Nepal, it takes 14 days to complete the three passes trek. Our Everest three high passes trek package is 18 days long with ample acclimatization days.

                                      • The Everest three passes trek is the most challenging trek in the Everest region. This trek takes you above 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) more than seven times. You will be navigating via dense forests, steep uphill and downhill paths, glaciers, narrow moraines, and rugged gorges. The high altitude and limited facilities along the trail make the journey quite demanding.

                                      • The three passes trek combines Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Thame village. You will be exploring the Dudh Khola Valley, Imja Khola Valley, and Gokyo Valley.

                                      •  

                                        To prepare for the Everest three passes trek, you have to exercise and go on regular long walks. Build your stamina, endurance, and walking habits. Research about the trail and the services you will get during trekking. Keep your expectations right and have a positive mindset.

                                      • Yes, you will need a guide for the three passes trek because many sections of these trekking routes are very tricky. Crossing the high mountain passes over 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) each alone is very risky.

                                      • The highest point touched during the Everest three high passes trek is 5,545 meters (18,129 ft). But you will go above 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) more than 6-7 times on this trek.

                                      • For beginners, the three high passes trek can be very demanding. Beginner trekkers can start with the EBC trek and Gokyo Valley trek before going for the three passes.

                                      • No, you will not spend a night at the Everest Base Camp. Instead, you will descend to Gorak Shep to spend the night because there is no lodge or tea house accommodation available at the base camp.

                                      • Yes, you can add a helicopter flight at the end of the trek. We provide helicopter service from any part of the Everest region, so feel free to let us know.

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