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Everest Three Passes Trek

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Trip Overview
  • Duration: 20 Days
  • Trip Grade: Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End: Kathmandu
  • Trip Area: Khumbu, Everest
  • Trip Style: Adventure/ Active
  • Age Group: 16+
  • Trip Type: Private and Group
  • Trip Method: Fully Guided
  • Booking Type: Instant Booking
  • Max. Altitude: 5545m
  • Best Season: March-May/Sep-Nov
  • Foot Print:Carbon Neutralleaf

Everest Three High Passes Trek - Chola, Renjo la and Kongma-la Pass Trek

Everest Three High Passes Trek takes you to the most thrilling places in the Everest region. From Everest Base Camp, over Three High Passes, and to Gokyo Lakes, each day on this marathon journey is an adventure. At Everest Base Camp, you have the opportunity to be on the foot of the mighty Everest. At Kala Patthar, you get a picturesque view of Everest and other mountains in its proximity. Another highlight of this trek is Gokyo Lakes, some of the highest lakes in the world, also a famous destination due to its otherworldly blue-green water, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Trekking to three high passes in the Everest region challenges you physically but also treats you with thrill and views of mountains that you cannot get from anywhere else.

Most of the trekking routes during this Everest High Passes Trek lie within the area of Sagarmatha National Park. This park has a unique combination of mountains, wildlife, and culture, making it one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world. Featuring many 8000+ meter peaks, including the highest, Mount Everest (8848 meters), and rare animals like the Snow Leopard, Lesser Panda, Himalayan Thar covered in green pine, and rhododendron forest. Trekking to all these amazing places is now possible with just a few extra days than the traditional 14 to 16 days Everest Base Camp trek. This Everest High Pass with Gokyo Lakes trek also saves you a lot of money as it is only slightly more expensive than the typical Everest Base Camp Trek. This trek is your opportunity to explore both the famous and lesser-known but equally beautiful places in the Everest region.

Everest Three High Passes Trek Highlights

  • 35 minutes of Kathmandu-Lukla flight full of scenic views of the landscapes
  • Explore the unique and vibrant Sherpa tradition and culture
  • Trek inside the Sagarmatha National Park habitat of exotic animals like Musk deer, Himalayan giant Thar and Snow Leopard
  • Stand at the foot of the world's highest mountain, Mt. Everest
  • Catch the outstanding view of sunrise over Mt. Everest from Kalapatthar
  • Breathtaking views of mountains like Tawache, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, and Thamserku
  • Ascend Gokyo Ri and enjoy the mesmeric mountain view over sunrise from there
  • A visit to the highest freshwater lake system in the world, Gokyo Lakes
  • Get the enthralling panoramic view of Himalaya range from Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La Pass

What To Expect on Everest Three High Passes Trek

Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla

A scenic flight from Kathmandu takes you to Lukla featuring a beautiful bird’s eye view of the valley and mountains for 35 minutes. Views of the landscape seen during this flight are exciting. This domestic flight takes you to the beautiful town of Lukla, quite isolated from the modern way of life. Every trekking journey in the Everest region starts here, by landing on the Tenzing-Hillary airport. Villages further from Lukla gradually become more rural and less accessible. 

Food and accommodation

During the trekking days, a full board meal is provided and accommodation will be a basic teahouse. Foods like pasta, noodles, soup, potatoes, vegetables, Dal Bhaat, fried rice, eggs, cheese, etc. will be in the meals. They only have heaters in dining halls, not in individual rooms. Due to the lack of easy transportation service in this area, you may not have access to luxury products. However, in Kathmandu, you will stay at a 3-star hotel providing breakfast. For lunch and dinner, you can try different restaurants and cafes according to your choice. They serve a variety of food based on different cuisines.

The Sherpas, tradition, and culture

Everest Region is inhabited by Sherpas, isolated from the rest of the world, and the greatest allies of the mountains. Without these amazing people, their service and assistance, no outsider would be able to sustain in this extreme environment. They also preserve their unique culture in the form of day-to-day lives and this trek is the perfect moment to learn about their traditions. Their culture is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. Visiting the Tengboche monastery, more about their culture and Tibetan Buddhism can be learned while enjoying its amazing architecture.

Sagarmatha National Park

Most of the trekking routes during this Everest High Passes trek lies within the area of Sagarmatha National Park. This park has a unique combination of mountains, wildlife, and culture making it one of the most famous trekking destinations. Featuring many high mountains including the highest, Mt. Everest, and rare animals like Snow Leopard, Lesser Panda, Himalayan Thar covered in green pine and rhododendron forest. Glaciers, icefalls, lakes, moraine valleys, etc. contribute to giving visitors a hair-raising experience and awe-inspiring views. 

Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar

Everest Base Camp is one of our destinations and is quite a popular one. Many trekkers believe that the journey up to this place is more rewarding than reaching this place itself. It is more about the thrill of being at the foot of the highest peak, Everest. Khumbu glacier and icefall and other mountains can be seen brilliantly from this place. Kala Patthar is where the outstanding view of Everest and other peaks can be seen. Chasing sunrise to get to its top is an adventure in its own way. 

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri

The beautiful and grand five lakes of Gokyo surrounded by mountains are treats to the eyes. They are amazing viewpoints especially the 5th Gokyo lake. They are also of great religious importance. Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visit these lakes and in Janai, Purnima Hindus come to take a bath in this holy lake. Gokyo village lies at the foot of Gokyo Ri which is another vantage point. Climbing its peak in the early morning gives you an opportunity to view Gokyo lakes and beautiful golden sunrise over the mountains like Everest, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Makalu, Amadablam, Cholatse, Kwangde.

 Kongma La (5528 m), Cho La (5420 m) and Renjo La ( 5360 m) pass

Out of three high mountain passes, the Kongma La pass is the first you will trek up to. It is considered to be the hardest one but don’t let this intimidate you. Then you will get to Everest Base Camp and head towards Cho La pass by walking towards the village Dzongla. The trail to Cho-La pass is quite slippery and it is suggested to use crampons. After getting to Gokyo lakes, you will trek towards Renjo- La Pass which provides you with the heavenly view of  Gokyo lake systems, and mountain peaks. Trekking in these high passes is filled with adventure and getting to the top you can get views of mountains like Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, etc.

Glorious views of Himalayas and Landscapes

Landscape during this trek changes from green forests-dominated terrain to snowy and rocky ones. Views of lakes and mountains covered in the snow make this trip worth all the strenuous trekking. Though several mountains can be seen all along the trek, the sight of sunrise and sunsets from vantage points like Kalapatthar and Gokyo Ri are mesmerizing and mountains look clearer and outstanding.

Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary

  • Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu AirportAltitude: 1345 m
  • Day 2:Flight to Lukla and trek to PhakdingAltitude: 2610 m
  • Day 3:Trek to Namche BazarAltitude: 3440 m
  • Day 4:Acclimatization at Namche BazaarAltitude: 3440 m
  • Day 5:Namche to TengbocheAltitude: 3860 m
  • Day 6:Tengboche to DingbocheAltitude: 4410 m
  • Day 7:Acclimatization at DingbocheAltitude: 4410 m
  • Day 8:Trek from Dingboche to ChhukungAltitude: 4730 m
  • Day 9:Chhukung to Kongma-La (5536 m) to LobucheAltitude: 4910 m
  • Day 10:Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters) and back to Gorak ShepAltitude: 5140 m
  • Day 11:Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and back to Gorak Shep and head towards DzonglaAltitude: 4830 m
  • Day 12:Dzongla to Cho La Pass (5420 m) to DragnagAltitude: 4770 m
  • Day 13:Dragnag to Gokyo Village and LakesAltitude: 4790 m
  • Day 14:Acclimatization day at Gokyo VillageAltitude: 4790 m
  • Day 15:Gokyo to Renjo La Pass (5390 m ) to LumdeAltitude: 4368 m
  • Day 16:Lumde to Thame
  • Day 17:Thame to Namche BazaarAltitude: 3440 m
  • Day 18:Namche to LuklaAltitude: 2860 m
  • Day 19:Lukla to KathmanduAltitude: 1345 m
  • Day 20:Departure

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu Airport

  • Max Altitude1345 m
  • Accommodation3-Star Hotel

As soon as you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be picked by Sublime Trails representatives and will be taken to a hotel. You will reach the hotel, keep your luggage there and freshen up. You can take a shower go out for a meal and chill around the streets of Thamel. You can either go visit different places or stay in your hotel room and rest. It depends upon how tired you are and how much time you have. We will give you a tour briefing and you can prepare for your trek that starts tomorrow.

Day 2:Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding

  • Max Altitude2610 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Your adventure starts from this day since you will be flying to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. Every trekker trying to reach Everest Base Camp of every mountaineer dreaming to ascend Mount Everest itself start their journey at Lukla. You will fly for 35 minutes, enjoying the beautiful scenery and land at Tenzing Hillary Airport. Then you will start your trek towards Phakding descending towards Dudh Kosh river. It is almost 4 hours of trek. This is the place you will spend your night. Your accommodation will be a basic Tea House, you will have your dinner and sleep.

Day 3:Trek to Namche Bazar

  • Max Altitude3440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will wake up at Phakding, have your breakfast and leave for Namche Bazar. You will also be entering Sagarmatha National Park today so you will require a permit. You will first reach Monjo where you will have your lunch. Then, you climb a steep uphill path. After almost 6-7 hours of trek, you will reach Namche.

Namche is famous for yak cheese and butter, Tibetan artifacts, yaks, porters carrying goods to Kumbu villages and its unique terrain. You can get views of mountains like Kusum-Kanguru, Thamserku, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc. To reach Namche you will also have to climb steep stairs. After reaching, you will rest, have your dinner and sleep at a Tea House in Namche.

Day 4:Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

  • Max Altitude3440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Acclimatization is very necessary for trekkers and climbers who are trying to ascend to an elevation more than 3000m. So, you will spend another night at Namche. This doesn’t mean that you can’t walk anywhere or stay at the same place. You can go to various places to view sunrise, sunset, explore people and culture, etc but you have to return to Namche to spend your night.

You can go to the Everest View Hotel, headquarters of Sagarmatha National Park or to Tenzing Hillary School. You may also just stroll around exploring Sherpa tradition and resting at your Tea House. In the end, you will return to your tea house in Namche for dinner.

Day 5:Namche to Tengboche

  • Max Altitude3860 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After spending two days at Namche, you will head towards the Tengboche village, where you will find Tengboche monastery. You can explore the monastery and learn about its rich culture and history. Your path won't be steep uphill ascend or downhill descend for few first hours of the trek then you will have to ascend an uphill path for almost 4 hours. You will also have crossed a suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi river. You will get to see the wonderful view of Tawache, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. You will have your dinner and sleep at Tengboche.

Day 6:Tengboche to Dingboche

  • Max Altitude4410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will leave Tengboche in the morning and move towards Dingboche. You will also leave the forests and descend towards the rocky landscape. You will see small villages along the way. You will then climb a gentle slope. You will get to see mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, etc. You will also have passed through the ancient village of Pangboche. Upon reaching Dingboche, you will rest, have your dinner and sleep at Dingboche.

Day 7:Acclimatization at Dingboche

  • Max Altitude4410 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

By the time you reach Dingboche, you will have gained another level of altitude and continuing your trek can prove to be hazardous. So, you will spend another day at Dingboche as acclimatization. You can hike to Chukung Ri or to Ama Dablam Base Camp or you can also stroll around the village exploring culture and tradition of people living there. You can see mountains like Taweche, Cholatste, Lobuche, Lhotse, Nuptse. The views you can get are outstanding. You will return to Dingboche for dinner and stay there overnight.

Day 8:Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung

  • Max Altitude4730 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Today, we will proceed slowly because we have a pretty strenuous trek to do tomorrow and your body needs to be well-rested. On your path, you may see huts made for keeping livestock with outstanding views of the mountains on the backdrop. After walking for about 3 hours on a gentle uphill from Dingboche to Chukung, you will crash on a tea house and rest.

Day 9:Chhukung to Kongma-La (5536 m) to Lobuche

  • Max Altitude4910 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You are getting closer and closer to Everest and you are going to conquer higher altitude. You are going to cross the first of three high passes of this region. You will first move towards the High Camp, from where you will ascend Kongma La Pass. The views of the mountains will get wider and vivid. You will reach Thukla and have your lunch. The number of Tea Houses you will see is very few. You will get to walk alongside the mighty Khumbu glacier. After about an hour of steep ascent, you will reach a place, memorial built in remembrance of departed mountaineers who tried to conquer Everest. You will see cairns built all over the place. You will get to view Mt. Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbuste, etc.

Day 10:Lobuche to Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters) and back to Gorak Shep

  • Max Altitude5140 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You are now very close to the Everest Base Camp. You will first reach Gorak Shep and check-in into a hotel after walking a gentle slope. It is almost 3 hours of trek and it may seem a little more than that because of the altitude you will have reached up to this day. You will need to walk slowly and steadily, and with the help of your guide, you will be there in no time. You can see some people settling down over the frozen lakebed, covered in sand.

You will now be ascending a slightly elevated uphill and after a while, you will descend until you reach Everest Base camp. You will see prayer flags when you reach to the Everest Base Camp, and the giant mountains you see in front of you is not Everest but Lhotse and Khumbutse. You can only see a little peek of Everest behind those mountains. You will return to Gorak Shep for your night’s sleep and dinner.

Day 11:Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar and back to Gorak Shep and head towards Dzongla

  • Max Altitude4830 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Waking up early, you will head towards Kala Patthar, a viewpoint to see the actual beauty of Mount Everest. You have to ascend for about 3 hours to reach Kala Patthar where you can see the beautiful sunrise over Everest and the Khumbu glacier. Kala Patthar is the highest place you will get to during this trek. This is also the limit of how high you can go with general trekking equipment. You will need mountaineering equipment to go higher than this. Other mountains you can view from this place are Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse, Lhotse, etc.

As you move towards Dzongla, you will leave Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse and Nuptse behind you. Along the way, you will see Chola Tsho, a lake on the foot of Cholatse. You will continue your trek and find that Lobuche is just behind you and Cholaste on your right. You will rest and have your dinner at Dzongla.

Day 12:Dzongla to Cho La Pass (5420 m) to Dragnag

  • Max Altitude4770 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After waking up in Dzongla, you will walk towards Cho La Pass, one of the three high passes of the Everest region. Today’s trek will be adventurous and exciting and will take you through a series of emotions. You will start your trek walking a relatively flat terrain. After walking for a distance, you will cross a stream and the path you will take also becomes steeper.

You will climb a steep uphill filled with boulders. You can’t yet see Cho La from here. You will continue your trek and reach Cho La after walking on a steep moraine. You will see glaciers along the way, it will be a sight to behold. After reaching Cho La, you will have to descend a long and difficult path to reach Dragnag. Upon reaching Dragnag, you will rest in a tea house.

Day 13:Dragnag to Gokyo Village and Lakes

  • Max Altitude4790 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Today’s trek is a short and easy trek, almost balancing the strenuous and long trek we had yesterday. You will hike towards North to get to Gokyo. You will walk alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier and descend towards it. You will cross the glacier and reach Gokyo village. You can spend the rest of your day exploring the village, interacting with the people or you can visit the lakes. 

Day 14:Acclimatization day at Gokyo Village

  • Max Altitude4790 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will have acclimatization rest on the 14th day of your trekking. On this day, you will hike to Gokyo-Ri to behold the view of sunrise. The panorama of the Himalayas and the view of glaciers and lakes look spectacular from here. After enjoying the view, you will descend to Gokyo village. You can spend the rest of your day exploring the Gokyo lakes if you haven’t already. You will stay overnight at a teahouse in Gokyo village.

Day 15:Gokyo to Renjo La Pass (5390 m ) to Lumde

  • Max Altitude4368 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Leaving Gokyo, you will head towards Renjo La Pass, 3rd of the three high passes of Everest Region. After you leave the lakes behind, you will climb a steep trail to reach a flat surface. After that, you will again face a gentle uphill ascent. You can look at a distance and see prayer flags that mark the Renjo La Pass. When you almost reach the pass, you will again face a steep uphill climbing. After reaching the pass, you will descend towards Lungden and spend your night there.

Day 16:Lumde to Thame

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Today you will trek towards Thame, a village of Sherpa culture. It is said that it holds its secrets in Thame monastery. This village lies in the foot of Kongde Peak. Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, who with Edmund Hillary first climbed Mt. Everest spent his childhood here. You will get to Thame by ascending a narrow valley, crossing Marulung through Bhote Koshi river and descending the trail to Tarngga. Upon reaching Thame, you can explore the Sherpa culture and Thame monastery and rest at a tea house there.

Day 17:Thame to Namche Bazaar

  • Max Altitude3440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will return to Namche Bazar this day. This will be your third day in Namche Bazar. To get here, you will leave Thame and walk through Rhododendron and Pine forests. Along the way, you will see small villages with Sherpa settlements. You will walk along this valley and get to Namche after few hours of moderate hiking. Today you won't have to do any steep downhill or uphill climbing. You may also see yaks and porters carrying goods along the way. After reaching Namche, you will rest and have dinner at a teahouse.

Day 18:Namche to Lukla

  • Max Altitude2860 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Waking up at Namche, you will have your breakfast and walk towards Phakding. You will have your lunch there and continue your trek towards Lukla. You will have completed your three high passes, Everest Base Camp, and Gokyo Lakes trek within these 16 days. You can look back and bid farewell to the mountains. As you move away and reach Lukla, you will have a sense of accomplishment. You should, because you will have completed the most adventurous trek successfully.Tea House

You can stroll around the town, charge your batteries, call/text your friends and family if you couldn’t do it when you were up in the mountains. You will spend your night at Lukla.

Day 19:Lukla to Kathmandu

  • Max Altitude1345 m
  • Accommodation3-Star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast

You will take the same 35 minutes flight to Kathmandu and leave the mountains. You can have an aerial view of them from your plane. After reaching Kathmandu, you can rest or go for sightseeing or other activities. You can also go to bars, live music, or spas. We will prepare a farewell dinner for you, which will be a cultural dish with a cultural dance performed by local dancers. You will spend the night at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 20:Departure

  • MealsBreakfast

This is your last day in Nepal. You will leave for your country and our representatives will drop you to the Airport. It is our pleasure to help you make your time in Nepal fun and worthy. You can contact us for more trekking adventures or any other activities you want to do in Nepal. Sublime Trails will always be there for you.

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What's Included

  • Meals: 
    19 Breakfasts, 16 Lunches, 16 Dinners
  • Accommodation: 
    3-Star accommodation in Kathmandu for 3 days 
    Tea house accommodation along the way for 16 days
  • Transportation:   
    All land transportation with pickups and drops
    Domestic Flight to Lukla and back
  • Guides and Porters:
    One guide and assistant guide between 6 people 
    1 porter for two people (A porter can carry up to 30 kg)
  • Entry Fees and Permits:
    Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Fee
    TIMS Card
     
  • Miscellaneous: 
    Down jacket, a Sleeping bag which should be refunded to the company after the trip
    Necessary paperwork with the government of Nepal and Tax department
    All the necessary insurance for the guides and porters
    First Aid service in case of minor injuries
    Salary, food, and accommodation for guides and porters

What's not Included

  • Any meals other than breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal effects (We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.)
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to any reason
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including mineral water
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Tipping for the Sublime crew

Departure Dates & Price

On our trip status section 'AVAILABLE' means the trip is guaranteed and available on the given price. If you book the trip through the direct booking section, you will receive a payment invoice instantly and receive a confirmation email within 24 hours.

Select Month and Year
    
Start DateStart: MondayJun 05, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayJun 24, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: ThursdayJun 08, 2023End DateEnd: TuesdayJun 27, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: SundayJun 11, 2023End DateEnd: FridayJun 30, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: WednesdayJun 14, 2023End DateEnd: MondayJul 03, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: SaturdayJun 17, 2023End DateEnd: ThursdayJul 06, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: TuesdayJun 20, 2023End DateEnd: SundayJul 09, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: FridayJun 23, 2023End DateEnd: WednesdayJul 12, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: MondayJun 26, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayJul 15, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStart: ThursdayJun 29, 2023End DateEnd: TuesdayJul 18, 2023PricePriceUS$1800StatusStatusAvailable

Additional Information

Diversity of Flora and Fauna

Everyone knows the diversity of Sagarmatha National Park, but few know the diverse flora and fauna found here. It's home to more than a hundred species of musk deers, mammals, red panda, snow leopard(rare occasion), and much more. 

Lush Oak and pine forest accompanied by vivid rhododendrons make the landscape serene. Further, the rushing streams, chimes of yak herding, and cool breeze of the Himalayas lure every trekker's soul. 

The placid vegetation also changes as we climb further to 3,500 meters. And 5,500 meters, we'll walk over the rugged and barren landscape of the Everest region.
 

Respect the culture and ethnic values

The Sherpa people in the Everest region practice Buddhism and celebrate Hindu and Buddhist festivals. The preserved culture, tradition, and ethnic lifestyle of the Sherpa community are also a focal attraction. 

Some trekkers sometimes mock people and their cultures, which is not what we encourage. "Give respect, take respect" has to be the main motto. Most people in Khumbu don't understand foreign languages, which creates a cultural difference. Thus, to understand, you must communicate with your trek guide. The guide will assist you in better understanding the culture of the Sherpa people when needed. 

Trekkers may not get permission to click photos at some places. Some trekkers also wish to photograph locals, but they get angry with such an act. You have to ask for permission to capture them. These are the nuances that create cultural disrespect. Thus, the only better way is to minimize them.
 

Meals in Everest Three High Passes Trek

When trekking in the Everest region, you must keep up the pace to maintain the hike with groups. The 8 hours of the trek on some days becomes tiring. Thus, consuming adequate foods, hygienic and nutritious, is a must. But, there are certain foods you should and shouldn't eat.

For breakfast, you'll get porridge, cheese toast, omelets, butter and jam, soups, etc. 

You'll also get fresh fruits for breakfast at places like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche. 

The lunch includes fries, Spaghetti, mushroom soups, vegetables, fruits, chicken, dumplings, and Tibetan bread. Nepali Dal Bhat is a prominent source of protein and carbohydrates. Thus, whatever you eat, don't forget to include Dal Bhat as the main dish. 

For dinner, Nepali Dal Bhat is the staple diet. It includes lentil soup as protein, rice, potatoes as carbohydrates, and pickles for better taste. 

Food tips: Try consuming soupy items like lentil soup, noodles, and mushroom soups at higher altitudes. Don't consume caffeine and alcoholic beverages. You may feel thirsty after consuming these products. 
 

Accommodation in Everest Three High Passes Trek

Accommodation in Everest Three Passes trek is tea house based. You'll find luxurious hotels and budget-friendly tea houses en route. For this trek, we'll manage the accommodation at the best tea house available.

The accommodation service in the Everest region has improved with extensive commercialization. 

The tea houses offer comfort overnight. During peak trekking season, you have to accommodate a twin sharing basis. You'll get an attached bathroom at most tea houses. 

But places like Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep, offer basic accommodation. Also, there are few tea houses for overnight sleep. We recommend you carry sleeping bags and pillowcases for comfortable overnight stay at these places.

You'll also get solar-powered hot showers, boiled water, and internet services by paying extra charges. Some tea houses at Lobuche also offer firewood heated water for bathing. But, at such an altitude, you'll get cold and cough in the shower. Hence, we recommend you shower at Namche or Lukla after the trek.

We'll not pay for your shower, internet, and hot water. 
 

Everest Three Passes Trek Difficulty 

The 17 days long trek to Everest Three Passes is strenuous. Thus, previous high-altitude trekking experience and physical endurance are a must.

Trekking to Kala Patthar, Everest Base Camp, and crossing Cho La, Kongma La, and Renjo La, is arduous and tiring. At some places in this terrain, you may need to ascend and abseil using a fixed rope. 

The climb of Kongma La pass and crossing Khumbu Glacier to reach Lobuche is physically demanding. On top, it's 8 hours-long hikes on arduous terrain. Crossing Cho La Pass to Gokyo is also challenging as we have to climb and descend steep ridges. 

But, we'll have a day of rest in Dingboche, Gokyo Valley, and a 3-hour short hike from Thangnak to Gokyo Valley. These rest will help us replenish the energy to further hikes to Marlung and Thame. 

Our experienced trek guides and porters will assist you throughout the hike. On their constant observation, you'll be in safe hands.
 

Safety and Security in Everest Three High Passes Trek

Sublime Trails always focuses on trekkers' safety and security. We give utmost care for your meals, accommodations, first aid, and emergency rescue if needed. 

Trekking at high altitudes demands nutritious foods. On top, it has to be hygienic. Hence, Sublime Trails assures your meals are rich in nutrition and 100% safe. In this way, you'll never get sick due to food safety issues. Report to the food server or trek guide if you have allergies to certain food items. 

There are rare occasions of theft and robbery of trekkers in the Everest region. There'll be no one except trekkers, guides, porters, and tea house owners in Everest trekking. Everyone has one motto, make an Everest trekking experience awesome. If you feel skeptical, we recommend you carry lockers for backpacks. 

Our government-licensed trekking guides possess first aid knowledge. They can take care of your minor injuries with first aid kits. Also, their experience comes in handy during such accidents. In instances like AMS and emergencies, you'll get helicopter evacuation ASAP. The helicopter will take you to the hospital in Lukla or Kathmandu as a priority. Thus, we ensure your 100% safe Everest Three High Passes Trek. 

But, for helicopter evacuation, you must purchase travel insurance before heading for this trip. Sublime Trails won't bear your hospital and helicopter evacuation cost. 
 

Travel insurance in Everest Three High Passes Trek

Travel insurance is a must for every trekker who wants to join the Everest Three Passes trek in Autumn 2022 from Sublime Trails. Travel insurance is for your safety, and we don't make any arrangements for your insurance. 

Travel insurance has significant benefits if you fall sick or need helicopter evacuation. High-altitude helicopter rescues are expensive and are difficult to get in an emergency. Thus, with your travel insurance, you'll get emergency rescue on time, and the best part, the insurance covers every penny of expenses, including hospital bills. 

Thus, for worryless trekking, travel insurance is mandatory. 
 

Guides and Porters Safety

Guides and Porters are staff employed from Sublime Trails. Thus, we arrange quality accommodation, meals, and other facilities to trek guides and porters throughout the trek. 

We believe quality guidance and assistance are possible only with healthy and bona fide guides and porters. For their health and safety, we buy insurance for every staff on the trek. On top, we perform health checkups of guides and porters before every Everest Three High Passes Trek. 
 

Baggage weight limit for porter and airline 

As per guidelines, two trekkers can employ a porter with no more than a combined 30 kg. The minimum weight a porter carries for an individual is 10kg. 

Thus, make your backpack below 15kg. If the weight exceeds the limit, you must hire an extra porter that only adds to the cost. 

During check-in, airlines allow 15 kg of weighted luggage to each traveler. It includes a 10 kg baggage and a 5 kg hand carrier bag. For additional kilograms, airlines will charge a minimum of USD 1, to as much as their weight fare policy. 

Hence, the best way to minimize the weight and extra cost is to include only necessary things for the trek.
 

Backpack and gears for Everest Three High Passes Trek

The Everest trek route is rugged. On top, crossing the glacier moraines, high passes, and altitudes over 5,500 meters are tiring. Thus, proper gear can make the hike comfortable and less tiring. 

Wearable gears are crucial to day hikes and night colds. For the day hike, thin sleeves, fleeces, and windproof and rainproof jackets come in handy. Also, a scarf, and hat, protect the face from being sunburned and dry by the cold wind. For possible rains, carrying a poncho will be wise. Otherwise, you won't require warm gear for a day hike. 

The premium trekking shoes give the utmost comfort of your day hike. You won't feel much strain on your legs with quality hiking shoes. On top, trekking poles also help you during the ascend and descent of Everest's Three Passes. 

During the morning and evening, the temperature drops around freezing at high altitudes. At night, the temperature averages around -7 degrees in Spring and Autumn. Thus, layers of thick clothes are a must. Three-layered down jackets, woolen hoodies, sweaters, thermocoat, and trousers are must-wear apparel. Also, woolen caps, neck warmer, and woolen gloves are compulsory. For overnight sleep, multi-layered sleeping bags with zips are best. When choosing a sleeping bag, look for those suitable for high-altitude camping. 

Skin care products like sunblock lotion, lip balm, and moisturizer are crucial. Toothbrush, paste, wet wipes, sanitizers, and toilet paper comes in handy. We recommend water bottles and pouches with a drinking pipe, electrolytes, and water purifying tablets. 

Gadgets like cameras, binoculars, mobile phones, and iPods for music are trekkers' favorites. Also, carrying your favorite book lets you timepass during acclimatization and rest at places. 

Learn more about the complete backpacking list for Everest Three High Passes Trek. 
 

Elevation in Everest Three High Passs Trek

Different altitude holds a significant Himalayan aesthetic that never tires the glazing eyes. Every corner of Khumbu is affluent with serene natural elements.  

We'll start this trek from Lukla at 2,850 meters to the highest climb of Kongma La Pass at 5,540 meters and Kala Patthar at 5,644 meters. 

Namche Bazar sits over 3,440 meters, and Hotel Everest View sits at 3,880 meters. Likewise, Tengboche sits over 3,860 meters, Dingboche at 4,410 meters, Chhukung at 4,730 meters, and Lobuche at 4,940 meters. 

Gorak Shep sits over 5,120 meters, Dzongla sits over 4,830 meters, Thangnak sits at 4,700 meters, and Gokyo Valley sits at 4,790 meters. 

Further, Gokyo Ri at 5,375 meters, Lumde at 5,360 meters, Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters, and Thame sits at 3,800 meters. 


Flight delays and transportation 

You'll get a complimentary airport pick-up and drop service from Sublime Trails. 

We'll fly to Lukla from Kathmandu on a clear weather day. If the weather turns bad, the flight gets delayed and postponed. To cope with such situations, we'll have a buffer day. 

If you wish to fly by helicopter to Lukla, we'll arrange the flight on your request, private and group sharing. 

Throughout the trek, the porters and yaks will carry the logistics. 

The flight gets delayed while returning from Lukla if the weather worsens. In worse cases, the flight to Kathmandu from Lukla gets canceled or postponed for several days. You'll have a single choice, alternative Jiri-Kathmandu route. If the weather improves, a helicopter flying out to Kathmandu from Lukla becomes likely doable. 

Since we operate Everest Three High Passes Trek during the best season, there's a low chance of flight being delayed, postponed, or canceled. However, we have to be prepared mentally for the worst-case scenario.
 

Weather and temperature throughout Everest Three High Passes Trek

Weather and temperature have to be ideal for Everest Three High Passes Trek. For best sightseeing, easier ascend and descend to/from high passes, rain-free hike, etc. 

March to May and September to November are the best times for this trek. Mountains look awesome, and the Everest trek route gets tons of trekkers.
 

Weather and Temperature in Spring

The moderate temperature, clear visibility, and fresh and green outlook make it the best time for the Everest region trek. The sightseeing of mountains, lakes, glaciers, moraines, and landscape becomes unmatched in Spring. 

The temperature averages 10 degrees in the daytime and -7 degrees at nighttime. Wind Speed also averages around 5 mph. 
 

Weather and Temperature in Summer 

The summer months, often the rainy days, are not best for this trek. The Everest trek route becomes slippery. Most prominent note, the regular airlines to Lukla are very few to none during monsoon. If you wish for a summer trek, a helicopter to Lukla will be the only option. 

The daytime temperature of 17 degrees becomes comfortable for a day hike. Nighttime temperature averages around freezing point, a bearable temperature with warm jackets. Windspeed, however, increases to 12 mph in summer. 
 

Weather and temperature in Autumn

After Spring, Autumn is the best time for Everest Three High Passes Trek. The greenery and clear and fresh outlook make the landscape striking. Also, the festive time in Autumn is best for trekkers to enjoy the cultural aspect of Khumbu. 

The mild temperature of 13 degrees in the daytime and freezing temperature at night is bearable.
 

Weather and temperature in Winter

Everest Three Passes Trek in Winter is not the best time for first-time trekkers. Experienced trekkers adore the adventure of crossing the high Himalayas Passes. The abseiling on fixed ropes on glaciers, and descending from Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass are thrilling in winter. 

Even in harsh colds, the weather clears up mostly in winter. Thus, you'll get an ideal view of snow-occupied mountains in winter. 

The daytime temperature is 4 degrees, which is near freezing. Also, nights are extremely cold with temperatures below -10 degrees. The wind speed also increases to 10 mph.
 

Tipping to Guides and Porters

There are not any standard rates for tipping guides and porters. But, each day, most trekkers give service tips of USD 10 for porters and USD 15 for trek guides.  

The earnings of porters and guides are from trekking salaries and tips from trekkers. Thus, you make a lot of the difference in their life.

They'll accompany you throughout Everest Three Passes Trek. They'll smile on your highs and encourage you on your lows. They'll work hard for your assistance so that you complete the trip and make a safe return. 

At the end of the trekking, at Lukla, trekkers offer a meal, drinks, and tips to the trek crew. A happy ending for everyone. A joyous end to an adventurous 17 days in the Himalayas. A farewell to the sublime experience of a lifetime. 
 

Important documents to carry while traveling in Nepal

As a foreign traveler in Nepal, you must have government-issued documents for identification and legal purposes. Here is a list of legal documents and why you should have them as a traveler.

  • Passport and Citizenship - For Everest region trekking permits, on arrival visa process, obtaining Nepali carrier, flight tickets to Lukla etc.

  • Travel insurance proof- Crucial during emergency evacuation and hospitalization.

  • Covid-19 vaccination card or PCR test reports within 48 hours. 

  • Passport sized photos for permits and other purposes.

  • Contact details of your family back home to contact during mishaps. 

  • Name tag on baggage

 

FAQs

  • Out of three high mountain passes, Kongma La pass is the first you will trek up to. It is considered to be the hardest one but doesn’t let this intimidate you. Then you will get to Everest Base Camp and head towards Cho La pass by walking towards the village Dzongla. The trail to Cho-La pass is quite slippery and it is suggested to use crampons. After getting to Gokyo lakes, you will trek towards Renjo- La Pass which provides you with the heavenly view of  Gokyo lake systems, and mountain peaks. Trekking in these high passes is filled with adventure and getting to the top you can get views of mountains like Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, etc.

  • Everest Region is inhabited by Sherpas, isolated from the rest of the world and the greatest allies of the mountains. Without these amazing people, their service and assistance, no outsider would be able to sustain in this extreme environment. Trekkers will also have plenty of chances to interact with the locals and visiting religious sites to know about the culture and tradition of the people known as Sherpas. Visiting the Tengboche monastery, more about their culture and Tibetan Buddhism can be learned while enjoying its amazing architecture.

  • Everest Region is inhabited by Sherpas, isolated from the rest of the world and the greatest allies of the mountains. Without these amazing people, their service and assistance, no outsider would be able to sustain in this extreme environment. Trekkers will also have plenty of chances to interact with the locals and visiting religious sites to know about the culture and tradition of the people known as Sherpas. Visiting the Tengboche monastery, more about their culture and Tibetan Buddhism can be learned while enjoying its amazing architecture.

  • Everest High Pass trek takes you to all major places inside the Everest region. This includes Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, Gokyo Lakes and three high passes. If you want to make your trek shorter, you can choose to trek to Everest Base Camp only crossing Cho La pass. You can also avoid all high passes and take a regular route.

  • Everest High Pass Trek starts with a flight to Lukla and proceeds up to Dingboche similar to regular Everest Base Camp Trek. It first takes you over the Kongma La Pass and move towards the Everest Base Camp then over the Cho La Pass to Gokyo Lakes and finally to the Renjo La Pass. Then, you head towards Chukung and cross Kongma La pass. After that, you will reach Lobuche and again join the regular Everest Base Camp trekking route and reach the base camp before climbing up to Kalapatthar the following day. After heading towards Dzongla and crossing Cho La Pass, you will trek towards Gokyo village via Dragnag. After spending a day acclimatizing at Gokyo village, you will trek to Lumde via Renjo La Pass. The trail then takes you to Thame before finally reaching Namche Bazaar and returning to Lukla. From Lukla, a domestic flight takes you back to Kathmandu.

  • As with most treks in the Himalayas, Autumn and Spring are the best times for taking on the Everest Base Camp High Passes Trek. Low precipitation, comfortable temperatures, and less dramatic weather make these seasons more favorable for this trek. Days are warmer, while nights and mornings are a bit colder in lower altitude places. It can get a bit extreme but still bearable in higher places.

    But if you want to trek in summer and winter, you should consult with us about the weather conditions and how the weather is expected to be during that particular time. Additional preparation against rainfall, snowfall, extreme cold, slippery roads, etc. should be made in order to trek in off-seasons.

  • During the trekking days, a full board meal is provided and accommodation will be a basic teahouse. Foods like pasta, noodles, soup, potatoes, vegetables, dal bhat, fried rice, eggs, cheese, etc. will be on the menu. They only have heaters in dining halls, not in individual rooms. Due to the lack of easy transportation service in this area, you may not have access to luxury products. However, in Kathmandu, you will stay at a 3-star hotel providing breakfast. For lunch and dinner, you can try different restaurants and cafes according to your choice. They serve a variety of food of different cuisines.

  • Everest High Pass Trek is a Strenuous Plus trek and takes up to 20 days to complete. The three high passes challenge you physically and mentally. This also trek includes walking alongside the glacier on a steep moraine, climbing a steep uphill filled with boulders, etc., so it is recommended to be in physical condition. That being said, the views during this trek are incomparable to anywhere else in the world, filling adventurers with feelings of a great accomplishment. The temperature and climatic conditions of this trek are similar to regular Everest Base Camp trek but you will be required to spend several extra days on high altitude villages. Within 14 days of trekking for an average of 6-7 hours a day and 3 acclimatization rest days, one can become physically and mentally draining. There is also a risk of altitude sickness, so you proceed each day carefully looking for any signs. Keeping yourself hydrated, trekking steadily and resting when required will lower the risk drastically. Some cardio, strength building endurance developing exercises prior to the trek should be helpful.

  • Besides Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, three high mountain pass and beautiful grand five lakes of Gokyo are dozens of quaint villages abundant in Sherpa culture. Also, Gokyo village itself lies at the foot of Gokyo Ri which is another jaw-dropping viewpoint. Climbing its peak in the early morning gives you an opportunity to view Gokyo lakes and beautiful golden sunrise over the mountains like Everest, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, etc. Trekking to three high passes, Kongma La (5528 m), Cho La (5420 m) and Renjo La (5360 m), lets you experience the thrill of high alpine trekking at its finest.

  • Three Passes Trek, also known as Everest Three High Passes Trek, is the hike over Cho La Pass at 5,420 metres, Renjo La Pass at 5,360 metres, and Kongma La Pass at 5,540 metres in the Mahalangur range, commonly known as the Everest region.

    These three high passes are remains of eroded glacial moraines and small peaks. They are also called the gap between the mountains.

    Hiking these passes also lets you explore the entire Everest region, hence, known as the Everest Circuit trek.

  • You can complete three passes in 20 days if you can hike according to the itinerary. If you get tired and need multiple days of rest and acclimatisation, the Three Passes trek may take 25-26 days to complete.

    Some trekkers also get altitude sickness over 4,500 metres while ascending. Thus, it becomes hard for them to hike without acclimatisation.

    We'll have a day or two as a buffer day in such situations.

  • Everest Three High Passes are above 5,300 metres to 5,600 metres. On top, the longer hiking hours, for two weeks, become tiring for first-time trekkers. But, for experienced high-altitude trekkers, this trek is ideal.

    We have designed three high passes trek with a focus on adequate acclimatisation and rest. On top, our trek guides and porters will assist you throughout this trek.

  • Everest Three Passes trek costs USD 1800 per individual. However, the rate decreases if you come in groups.

    Also, there are various packages like Silver Price, Gold Price, and Bronze Price, based on the quality of service you prefer.

    In contrast, Sublime Trails offers affordable rates for valued clients for every trekking we operate in Nepal.

  • Everest Three High Passes is 180 km long when you start and end this trek at Lukla. The challenging three passes trek route takes 78 hours to complete.

    The tiring three-week-long three high passes trek is rewarding with striking glimpses of mountains and alpine landscape in every blink of an eye. In this trek, you'll see the various faces of Everest, Ama Dablam, Chhukung Ri, Gokyo, Gokyo Lakes, high passes in Mahalangur range, and Kala Patthar.

  • Everest Three Pass Trek is best in Autumn and Spring. However, some experienced alpinists also prefer three passes trekking in Winter for more thrill.

    Spring and Autumn are best because of rain-free days, clear weather, and stable temperature. Also, the trails won't be slippery due to snow or rain in Spring and Autumn. These conditions are ideal for day hikes and pellucid sightseeing.

  • Sublime Trails has fixed departures for three passes trek in Autumn 2022. We have been getting many inquiries about this trek. And also, the seats are filling fast. We encourage you to book your Three Tasses Trek with us at the most exciting price. We also offer discounts to trekkers who book Everest Three High Passes Trek in a group. 


    To learn more about the availability of the Three Passes Trek for Autumn 2022, get in touch with our representative. Contact our tour manager Mr. Ram Khadka at +977 9851183278 (24/7 available on whatsapp) or email at info@sublimetrails.com . We are always here to guide you with the best tour service.

Everest Three Passes Trek Reviews

5.0based on 12 reviews
  • Amella
    AmellaJuly 05, 2022
    TripAdvisor

    Everest Three Passes Trek in late June, a perfect escape to the nature.

    Everest three passes trek experience with Sublime Trails became good. The overall experience from my side is good because of good food, accommodations, porters and everything was good. We managed to fly to Lukla but the return was not possible to fly from Lukla. Instead, Mr Ram from Sublime Trails arranged an affordable helicopter flight rate for us from Namche to Kathmandu. It was a truly heartwarming gesture by the tour manager.
    To write few lines about Everest three high passes, without a guide, the tour would have been not possible. Our fantastic guide Mr Shiva was entertaining, caring, and a bold guy. He made the whole trip effortless. Thanks for his extra photography skills. Truly, the best tour of life. Cheers!!

  • Jochim
    JochimJune 14, 2022
    logo

    Wonderful trip on Everest Circuit, The Three High Passes Trek

    I recommend everyone looking for best trekking in Nepal, go to Everest Three High Passes trek It gives the ultimate Everest experience you'll ever get. The budget friendly package from Sublime Trails was amazing. It was truly mesmerizing. 

    Guides was best. Meals, accommodation, flights, everything were at their top. Felt the best travel experience. 

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