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19 Days

Everest Three Pass Trek

Price per person $1895
Altitude 5535m
Difficulty Extreme
Group size 2-10
Climb Style Normal

Overview

Start a tough and exciting adventure through the heart of the Everest region with the Three Passes Trek. This iconic trek takes you across three high mountain passes, offering breathtaking views of the world's highest peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Traverse through remote valleys, ancient Sherpa villages, and untouched landscapes, while experiencing the region's rich Sherpa culture. With its challenging terrain, towering peaks, and diverse ecosystems, the Three Passes Trek promises an unforgettable Himalayan adventure for seasoned trekkers. This demanding trek, typically lasting 18-21 days, takes you across three high mountain passes, offering unparalleled views of the world's tallest peaks and a true test of your physical and mental strength.

Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's lively capital. From here, you'll take a thrilling flight to Lukla, a small airstrip set among the mountains, often referred to as the "gateway to Everest." The trek unfolds as you leave Lukla behind, following well-established trails towards Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa trading center situated at a comfortable altitude. This charming town serves as a crucial acclimatization stop, allowing your body to adjust to the thinning air before venturing higher.

After acclimatization, the real challenge begins. The first pass you'll conquer is Renjo La (5,360 meters), offering panoramic views of the Gokyo Lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal's longest. Reaching Gokyo, a cluster of blue-green lakes located among tall peaks, is another milestone. Hike up Gokyo Ri (5,545 meters) for even more breathtaking vistas of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Next comes the most demanding pass: Cho La (5,420 meters). This high-altitude glacier crossing requires caution and potentially the use of microspikes for improved grip. Overcoming this challenge leads you to the culturally rich village of Phortse Tenga, situated in the Dudh Kosi Valley.

The trail continues towards Dingboche and ultimately, Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters), a dream destination for many trekkers. Here, you stand in front of the massive Khumbu Glacier, feeling small next to the towering Everest. For the truly adventurous, an optional hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) offers the most dramatic perspective of Everest and the surrounding giants. Witnessing the first rays of sunlight color the mountain in a golden glow is a memory that will stay with you forever.

The last part of the trek involves crossing the Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters), the highest of the three. This challenging pass rewards you with breathtaking views of the Imja Khola Valley and the remote peaks of Ama Dablam and Thamserku. The descent leads you back to Namche Bazaar and finally to Lukla, where your epic journey concludes.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is a demanding adventure, requiring a good level of fitness, experience with high-altitude trekking, and a strong mental attitude. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, with strong winds, rain, snow, and cold temperatures all possibilities. Be prepared for all conditions and pack accordingly. Permits, including a TIMS card and a special permit for Everest Base Camp, are required and can be obtained in Kathmandu.

Conquering the Three Passes Trek is a true test of endurance and a reflection of your adventurous spirit. It's a chance to witness the beauty of the Himalayas in all their glory, experience the warmth of Sherpa hospitality, and push your physical and mental limits. If you're seeking the ultimate Everest challenge, the Three Passes Trek awaits. The Three Passes Trek offers a thrilling and unforgettable adventure, combining challenging mountain passes, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural experiences in the heart of the Everest region.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2

Drive for 4 hours to Manthali, take a 20-minute flight to Lukla, then trek for 3 hours to Phakding. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 3

Trek for 5 to 6 hours through dense forests, crossing suspension bridges and villages to reach Namche Bazaar. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 4

Rest day for acclimatization, with a hike to Everest Viewpoint for stunning views of the Everest region. Overnight in Namche.

Day 5

Trek for 4 hours to the peaceful village of Thame, known for its monastery and tranquil surroundings. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 6

Trek to Lungden, a small village at high altitude. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 7

Trek for 6 to 7 hours across the challenging Renjo La Pass to reach the scenic Gokyo Lake. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 8

Hike for 4 to 5 hours to Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. Take the afternoon to rest and acclimatize.

Day 9

Trek for 4 hours to Tangnak, a small settlement near the Gokyo lakes. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 10

Trek for 6 to 7 hours across the challenging Chola Pass, a highlight of the trek. Overnight in Zhongla.

Day 11

Trek for 5 to 6 hours to Gorakshep, the last settlement before reaching Everest Base Camp. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 12

Hike to Kalapatthar for stunning sunrise views of Everest, then descend to Lobuche in 5 to 6 hours. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 13

Trek for 6 to 7 hours across the challenging Kongma La Pass to Chukkung. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 14

Rest and acclimatize at Kongma La Pass.

Day 15

Trek 4 to 5 hours down to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 16

Trek for 4 to 5 hours back to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 17

Trek for 6 to 7 hours back to Lukla. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 18

Take a 20-minute flight from Lukla to Manthali, followed by a 4-hour drive to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel.

Day 19

Reserve this day for weather-related delays or emergencies.

Cost Inclusion & Exclusion

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off

  • Hotel in Kathmandu 3 night  

  • All lodges on trek (twin-sharing) 

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the trek 

  • Domestic airfare  

  • Expert guide during trek 

  • Guide and porter’s insurance  

  • Porters (1 porter per two trekkers) 

  • Company duffle bag and sun had 

  • A first aid kit and an oximeter

  • All necessary permit 

  • All local government taxes

  • Oxygen set (if in case you got sickness you can use but it will charge 300 USD extra) 

  • Individual travel insurance 

  • International airfare 

  • Visa fees upon arrival 

  • Personal expenditures, like hard and cold drinks 

  • Hot shower during the trek 

  • Personal trekking equipment 

  • Charges for internet and telephone usage 

  • Gratuity for the trekking team members, guide, porters

Travel Notes

Key Attractions

  • Renjo La Pass (5,388 meters/17,678 feet): The trek begins with the crossing of Renjo La Pass, offering panoramic views of Everest (8,848 meters/29,029 feet), Lhotse (8,516 meters/27,940 feet), Makalu (8,485 meters/27,838 feet), and other Himalayan peaks. The pass is a challenging but rewarding ascent.

  • Gokyo Lakes: After crossing Renjo La Pass, the trek takes you to the picturesque Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise glacial lakes nestled amidst snow-capped mountains. Gokyo is one of the highest human settlements in the world and offers breathtaking views of Cho Oyu (8,201 meters/26,906 feet), the sixth highest mountain in the world.

  • Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters/17,575 feet): A highlight of the trek is the ascent of Gokyo Ri, a rocky peak that offers stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, as well as the entire Gokyo Valley and its surrounding glaciers. The sunrise view from Gokyo Ri is particularly spectacular.

  • Cho La Pass (5,420 meters/17,782 feet): The trek continues with the crossing of Cho La Pass, a high mountain pass that connects the Gokyo Valley with the Everest Base Camp route. The pass involves a steep ascent and descent over icy terrain, offering breathtaking views of Ama Dablam (6,812 meters/22,349 feet) and other peaks.

  • Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters/17,598 feet): The trek takes you to Everest Base Camp, the starting point for expeditions to the summit of Mount Everest. Here, you'll have the opportunity to stand at the foot of the world's highest peak and soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

  • Kala Patthar (5,545 meters/18,192 feet): A side trip from Everest Base Camp takes you to Kala Patthar, a rocky outcrop that offers unparalleled views of Mount Everest, as well as panoramic vistas of the entire Everest region. The sunrise view from Kala Patthar is considered one of the best in the Himalayas.

  • Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters/18,159 feet): The trek concludes with the crossing of Kongma La Pass, the highest of the three passes. From the pass, you'll enjoy stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other peaks, before descending to the village of Chhukung and completing the trek.

  • Sherpa Culture and Hospitality: Throughout the trek, you'll have the opportunity to interact with the legendary Sherpa people, renowned for their mountaineering prowess, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. You'll stay in traditional teahouses and lodges, experiencing Sherpa cuisine and customs firsthand.

  • Tengboche Monastery: Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in the Everest region, with stunning views of Everest.

Activities

  • Trekking through diverse landscapes, including glaciers, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, with challenging ascents and descents.

  • Crossing high mountain passes requires physical endurance and acclimatization to high altitude.

  • Exploring remote villages, monasteries, and cultural landmarks along the trail, learning about Sherpa culture and traditions.

  • Witnessing panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu.

  • Visiting Everest Base Camp and other iconic landmarks of the Everest region, including the Khumbu Icefall and Kalapatthar.

Book your adventure today

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