Private car/van, and flight
Crossing three Himalayan passes above 5,300 meters in a single circuit is not something you decide on casually. The Everest Three Passes Trek links the classic Everest Base Camp route with the remote Gokyo Lakes valley, and adds Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m) as the major crossings. Together, they form one of the most complete loop circuits anywhere in the Khumbu.
Most Everest Base Camp trekkers see the mountain from one direction. On this route, you see it from three: from the Renjo La ridge, from the moraines above Gorak Shep, and from Kala Patthar at 5,644 m. The Gokyo Lakes, six high-altitude glacial lakes listed under the Ramsar Convention since 2007, come as a separate landscape entirely, nothing like what you encounter on the standard base camp approach!
But here is what you should understand going in. This is a physically demanding route covering roughly 155 to 165 km over 17 days of active hiking. The passes involve exposed ridgelines, icy terrain in most conditions, and sections where glacier crossings require real care. It is not the right choice as a first Himalayan trek, and treating it like a slightly harder EBC is a common mistake.
Does that mean only experienced mountaineers can do it? No. Well-prepared trekkers with no climbing background complete all three passes every season. But the preparation has to be genuine, and the itinerary has to give your body enough time to adapt at altitude.
At Adventure A One Treks, our team has guided trekkers across these passes across multiple seasons. We know where the difficulty spikes, where the route demands respect, and where patience pays off. This guide covers everything: the passes in detail, the natural and cultural highlights, permits, preparation, cost, and the full 19-day itinerary our team uses. Read it before you book.
| Trek Duration | 19 days (arrival and departure included) |
| Total Trekking Distance | Approx. 155 to 165 km |
| Highest Point | Kala Patthar (5,644 m / 18,517 ft) |
| The Three Passes | Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), Kongma La (5,535 m) |
| Trekking Direction | Clockwise: Renjo La > Cho La > Kongma La |
| Trekking Region | Khumbu, Sagarmatha National Park |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Best Seasons | Late March to May, October to early November |
| Protected Area | Sagarmatha National Park (1,148 sq km, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979) |
| Permits Required | Sagarmatha NP Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit |
| Major Highlights | EBC, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Ri, Gokyo Lakes, Renjo La panorama |
| Overnight Villages | Phakding, Namche, Thame, Lungdhen, Gokyo, Thangna, Dzongla, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Chhukung, Pangboche |
| Accommodation | Teahouses throughout |
| Meals Included | Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on all trekking days |
| Starting and Ending Point | Lukla (2,840 m) |
The three passes are what define this trek and separate it from every other route in the Khumbu. Each one is a distinct physical challenge.
Each offers a different mountain panorama. And each comes at a different point in your physical arc, which is why the order of crossing matters.
The clockwise direction, starting with Renjo La and finishing with Kongma La, is the route we use and recommend. You acclimatize more gradually this way, because the first pass comes after 6 days of steady altitude build-up.
Kongma La, the highest pass, arrives on Day 14 after you have already spent nearly two weeks above 3,400 m. That accumulated adaptation makes a measurable difference.
Renjo La is the first of the three passes and, for many trekkers, the most visually rewarding. The ascent from Lungdhen gains about 1,000 m over 4 to 5 hours on a trail that moves through loose scree and firm rocky ground above the treeline. There are no technical sections here, but the altitude and pace require steady effort.
From the top at 5,360 m, you get one of the clearest unobstructed views of Mt. Everest from any pass in the Khumbu. Below on the descent side, the Gokyo Lakes spread out in a green-blue series against the grey of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.
On a clear morning, Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Gyachung Kang (7,952 m), Makalu (8,485 m), and the Rolwaling range all come into view. The descent to Gokyo is steep and takes about 3 hours.
Cho La is the most technically demanding of the three. From Thangna, the trail climbs steeply before crossing a glaciated section at the top where crampons are usually necessary.
The glacier surface is often icy in the early morning, and conditions vary significantly by season and by the day.
At 5,420 m, the views include Cholatse (6,335 m) directly to the north, Ama Dablam (6,812 m) to the southeast, and the full spread of the Khumbu Valley below.
The descent toward Dzongla involves icy, rocky terrain and some exposed traversing sections. This is not a place to rush, and your guide's instructions on this descent are non-negotiable.
In spring, the conditions are generally better than in autumn, when the first heavy snowfall can make this pass genuinely dangerous.
Kongma La is the highest of the three passes and also the one that comes after the emotional high of EBC and the pre-dawn Kala Patthar hike.
The ascent from Chhukung gains roughly 800 m on steep rocky terrain, and the full traverse from Chhukung to Lobuche takes 6 to 7 hours.
From the top at 5,535 m, you see Makalu (8,485 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Ama Dablam, and the ridgeline directly above Everest Base Camp.
The Kongma Lake sits just below the pass on the Lobuche side, an alpine lake that is easy to miss but worth pausing for. Many trekkers consider Kongma La the hardest physical day of the trek because it comes when cumulative fatigue is at its peak, usually by Day 14.
The passes are the challenge. The highlights below are the reasons the effort is worth it.
Everest Base Camp is not a viewpoint. From the camp at 5,364 m, the Everest summit is not visible because the Nuptse ridge blocks it entirely. What you do see is the Khumbu Icefall, the first major obstacle every expedition team crosses at the start of a summit attempt.
The icefall shifts constantly as the glacier moves, and you will hear the crack and low rumble of moving ice before you see it.
Standing at EBC has a specific weight that is hard to explain. The surrounding peaks (Nuptse, Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori, and Changtse) form a complete amphitheater around the camp.
The puja altars left by expedition teams and the prayer flags flying from tent lines give the place a different atmosphere from anywhere else on the trek. Most trekkers arrive in the afternoon, spend 30 to 60 minutes, and return to Gorak Shep for the night.
If EBC is about standing at the base, Kala Patthar is about the best available view of Everest without a climbing permit. From 5,644 m, you see the entire south face and summit pyramid clearly, along with Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse, Changtse, and Pumori at relatively close range.
The standard approach is a pre-dawn start from Gorak Shep, aiming to reach the summit before first light. The hike takes 45 to 60 minutes at a steady pace.
Have your headlamp batteries fresh, your warm layers immediately accessible, and your camera settings pre-adjusted for low light before you leave the lodge.
We can tell you from our own experience that scrambling for gear at 5,500 m in the dark is not the beginning you want for this morning.
Gokyo Ri is the viewpoint that most surprises trekkers who expected Kala Patthar to be the standout.
From 5,357 m, you see four of the world's six highest mountains in a single panorama: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Below the ridge, the six Gokyo Lakes define the valley floor alongside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.
The Gokyo Lakes were designated under the Ramsar Convention as Wetlands of International Importance in 2007. There are 6 lakes in the series, beginning with Longponga Tsho at 4,690 m and extending north to Gyazumpa Tsho at 5,000 m.
The main lake, Dudh Pokhari at 4,790 m, sits directly next to Gokyo village. Most trekkers explore the first three lakes on Day 8; reaching lakes four through six requires early starts and a full extra day.
Sagarmatha National Park covers 1,148 sq km and spans elevations from 2,845 m at Monjo to the Everest summit at 8,848.86 m. UNESCO designated the park a World Heritage Site in 1979.
According to IUCN records, the park supports 28 mammal species and over 200 bird species across its boundaries and buffer zone.
Below Namche, the trail passes through forests of blue pine, hemlock, and broadleaf species. Above Namche, the vegetation transitions to birch, juniper, and dwarf rhododendron shrubs.
Above 4,000 m, the landscape is mostly alpine meadow and bare rock, with scattered cushion plants surviving the extreme conditions.
The lower section to Phakding and Namche offers good birding, particularly for the Himalayan monal pheasant, Nepal's national bird, which inhabits the rhododendron forest between 2,500 and 3,500 m.
The mammals most commonly sighted on this route include Himalayan tahr on rocky slopes around Kongma La, musk deer in the lower forested sections between Phakding and Namche, and pikas on the high exposed terrain.
Snow leopards inhabit the park but are rarely encountered on the main trekking trails. Additionally, the park recorded the recent presence of Pallas's cat, a near-threatened species, in the upper altitude zones.
One of the real advantages of this loop circuit over a standard EBC trek is the variety of mountain perspectives. From different points across the route, you get clear sightlines to:
The Khumbu region is not only a trekking corridor, but a living landscape shaped by Sherpa communities who have been inhabiting these valleys for more than 500 years!
Well, these Sherpas are the actual indigenous people of the entire Khumbu region. Looking back at their history, their ancestors actually migrated south from eastern Tibet in several waves between the 13th and 16th centuries. Since then, they have settled in the high valleys of what is now called the Solukhumbu district.
And as per Nepal's 2021 census, there are approximately 130,637 Sherpas in Nepal, with the highest concentration? In the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality of Solukhumbu region! And in this 19-day Everest Three Passes Trek, the administrative area passes through which this entire trek passes!
Since Sherpa culture is rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, every major settlement on this route has at least one gompa for sure. Mountains, water sources, and specific landscape features carry spiritual significance here!
Everest itself, known locally as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan, is considered a deity, not merely a geographical feature. You will encounter this belief expressed daily in prayer flags, mani walls, and ritual offerings.
Many of the most experienced high-altitude guides and mountaineering expedition members in the Himalayas come from Sherpa communities.
On a technically demanding route like this one, their knowledge of pass conditions, weather patterns, and altitude management is not incidental to your safety. It is central to it.
Take time to talk with your guide beyond logistics. The cultural perspective they carry deepens the experience considerably.
The Three Passes circuit passes through a range of Sherpa settlements, each with its own atmosphere and history:
All accommodation on this route is in teahouses throughout. There is no camping, no carrying of tents, and no cooking your own food.
Teahouse life is the culture of this route, and it rewards trekkers who engage with it rather than just pass through.
The quality of facilities varies significantly by altitude. In Namche and Gokyo, the lodges are comparatively comfortable, with WiFi, western food options, and proper bathroom facilities.
In Lobuche and Gorak Shep, the lodges are more basic: shared squat-style toilets, limited electricity, and very restricted hot shower availability above 4,900 m. A sleeping bag liner adds warmth at the upper lodges and is worth carrying.
Dal bhat is the best trail food on offer, and "Dal bhat power 24 hour" is a phrase you will hear your guide say at least once during the trek. It is not just a local joke.
A trekker who consistently eats dal bhat from Namche upward consistently outperforms one chasing pasta and omelettes at altitude. Order dinner early when lodges are crowded, bring a power bank with at least 20,000 mAh capacity, and do not expect reliable WiFi above Namche for anything important.
The Everest Three Passes Trek runs 19 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, with 17 days of active hiking and exploration in the Khumbu. Total trekking distance from Lukla is approximately 155 to 165 km, depending on optional side hikes to the upper Gokyo Lakes and Chhukung Ri.
| Route Section | Distance (Approx.) | Walking Time |
| Lukla to Phakding | 8 km | 3 to 4 hrs |
| Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 10 km | 5 to 6 hrs |
| Namche acclimatization (Everest View + Khumjung) | 9 km | 4 to 5 hrs |
| Namche to Thame | 10 km | 5 to 6 hrs |
| Thame to Lungdhen | 10 km | 5 to 6 hrs |
| Lungdhen to Gokyo via Renjo La | 12 km | 6 to 7 hrs |
| Gokyo Ri + Lakes exploration | 15 km | 8 to 10 hrs |
| Gokyo to Thangna | 7 km | 3 to 4 hrs |
| Thangna to Dzongla via Cho La | 12 km | 6 to 7 hrs |
| Dzongla to Lobuche | 10 km | 5 to 6 hrs |
| Lobuche to Gorak Shep + EBC | 15 km | 7 to 8 hrs |
| Kala Patthar + descent to Lobuche | 12 km | 6 to 7 hrs |
| Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongma La | 12 km | 6 to 7 hrs |
| Chhukung to Pangboche | 10 km | 5 to 6 hrs |
| Pangboche to Namche Bazaar | 10 km | 5 to 6 hrs |
| Namche to Lukla | 19 km | 7 to 8 hrs |
Timing this trek well matters more than on most other Himalayan routes. The passes, particularly Cho La, are significantly more dangerous when fresh snowfall arrives. Choosing the wrong season can mean impassable conditions at 5,400 m with no easy alternative!
The two reliable windows are spring (late March to May) and autumn (October to early November). Both offer stable weather and reasonable pass conditions, but they have different trade-offs.
| Season | Conditions | Pass Status |
| Late March to May | Clear days, moderate daytime temperatures at altitude. Lower rhododendron forest in bloom. Some ice on Cho La in March | Generally passable; ice crampons required in March |
| June to mid-September | Monsoon. Heavy rain below 3,000 m, cloud cover above. Passes muddy and occasionally snow-covered | High risk; this route is not recommended in monsoon |
| October to early November | Best mountain visibility of the year. Post-monsoon air is clean and skies are stable. Cold mornings above 4,000 m increase from late October | Ideal conditions; crampons advisable on Cho La |
| November to December | Increasingly cold at altitude. Gorak Shep reaches below -15°C at night in December | All three passes carry real closure risk from November onwards |
| January to February | Extreme cold, heavy snowfall possible at altitude. Passes frequently blocked | Not recommended for this route |
October and early November give the clearest mountain views of the year, which is why this period draws the most trekkers.
The trade-off is crowding at teahouses from Namche to Lobuche, so booking accommodation through a reputable agency in advance is important for this season.
Spring offers slightly fewer trekkers and the added visual reward of lower-elevation rhododendrons in full bloom, but March passes can carry ice risk on Cho La.
This trek is rated strenuous, and that rating reflects reality accurately!
The difficulty comes from three compounding factors rather than any single obstacle:
Prior experience above 3,500 m is genuinely important before attempting this route.
If this is your first Himalayan trek, starting with the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek or a shorter Everest region route first gives you a much better foundation for understanding how your body responds to altitude. That experience is hard to replicate with any amount of preparation at sea level!
That said, properly prepared trekkers with no mountaineering background complete this circuit every season. The route is technical in places, but it is not a climbing route.
Strong fitness, sensible pacing, good acclimatization, and an honest guide who monitors your condition are the combination that makes this achievable.
All accommodation is in teahouses throughout the route. Rooms are twin-sharing with basic blankets and pillows. Private rooms are available at most stops but are not guaranteed during peak season (October and April being the busiest months).
A sleeping bag liner is worth carrying; a full sleeping bag is advisable above Lobuche!
Hot showers are available for an extra charge (typically NPR 200 to 500 per shower) at most stops up to Lobuche. Above Gorak Shep, options become very limited.
Squat-style toilets are standard at most lodges; Namche and Gokyo lodges sometimes offer western-style options.
Below-freezing temperatures at night above 4,500 m make warm layers in the lodge as important as warm layers on the trail.
Electricity via solar and microhydro systems is available at most stops up to Lobuche. Above this point, charging is inconsistent. Carry a power bank with at least 20,000 mAh capacity.
WiFi is available in Namche and Gokyo but should not be relied on for anything time-sensitive.
Food menus are broadest in Namche and Gokyo. Dal bhat, thukpa (noodle soup), fried rice, eggs, Tibetan bread, and momo are reliable throughout.
Above Namche, western menu items are available but variable in quality. Above Lobuche, menus simplify significantly. Garlic soup is worth ordering in the upper lodges, where it is widely believed to help with acclimatization.
Note that three meals per day are included in your Adventure A One Treks package on all trekking days.
Two permits are mandatory for this trek, and both are non-refundable once issued:
At Adventure A One Treks, we manage both permits for all guests. Bring your passport copy and a passport-sized photo. For the standard Three Passes circuit from Lukla, no additional permits are required.
Let’s break down this preparation guide so you get a clear understanding of how to prepare for you upcoming Everest Three Passes Trek:
The base fitness requirement here is higher than for most Himalayan routes. You need to be capable of hiking 7 to 8 hours on consecutive days with a loaded daypack of 7 to 10 kg, on terrain that alternates between sustained rocky ascents, glaciated sections, and long descents on uneven ground.
Start physical preparation at least 8 to 10 weeks before departure. Focus first on cardiovascular endurance with uphill running, stair climbing, or cycling for 45 to 60 minutes daily.
Add strength training with squats, lunges, and deadlifts for the leg and core capacity the passes demand. Most importantly, schedule 2 to 3 long hiking days per week in the final 4 weeks before departure, carrying a loaded pack.
The Cho La and Kongma La are not places where pre-trek fitness gaps are easily compensated for by determination alone.
Physical readiness is only half the preparation. This route places trekkers in a remote high-altitude environment for nearly three consecutive weeks, with limited connectivity, basic living conditions, and days that demand effort from the moment you wake up.
That combination tests mental resilience in ways that are hard to replicate at home!
The most common low points are around Day 9 or 10, when cumulative physical fatigue starts to accumulate before the EBC section, and the pre-dawn mornings at Gorak Shep when you need to leave the lodge at 4:00 AM in below-freezing temperatures.
Knowing these moments come, and that they are temporary, is genuinely useful mental preparation.
This route spends more consecutive days above 4,000 m than almost any other Himalayan trek in Nepal. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a real risk, particularly for trekkers with no prior altitude experience.
The key preventive factors are pace, hydration, and itinerary structure. This 19-day itinerary includes a formal acclimatization day in Namche (Day 4) and a gradual altitude build through Thame and Lungdhen before the first pass.
Above 4,000 m, drink at least 4 liters of water per day and avoid sleeping altitude gains of more than 300 to 500 m per day when possible.
AMS symptoms include persistent headache, loss of appetite, nausea, and disturbed sleep. Report any of these to your guide immediately, particularly above 3,500 m.
The serious conditions, HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), progress rapidly and require immediate descent.
Our guides at Adventure A One Treks carry supplemental oxygen, pulse oximeters, and the knowledge to assess your condition accurately. Communicate honestly. Your guide can only help with information you provide.
There are several specific behaviors that reflect respect for Sherpa culture and matter consistently throughout this Everest Three Passes route!
First and foremost, always walk clockwise around mani walls, stupas, chortens, and other Buddhist monuments. This direction holds religious significance in Tibetan Buddhism, and reversing it is disrespectful regardless of the reason. Spin prayer wheels clockwise for the same reason.
Ask before photographing people, particularly monks or individuals at prayer. Most Sherpas are genuinely welcoming and will not object, but asking is the right approach.
Inside monasteries, photography and videography are sometimes restricted and sometimes require a small fee. Follow the guidance posted at each site.
Remove shoes and hat before entering a monastery. And kindly dress modestly in villages, especially near sacred sites! Shorts are fine on the trail, but once you're inside the sacred vicinity, be sure to have your legs and shoulders covered so you're respecting the local life here.
Moreover, avoid buying products made from wildlife parts. These can include musk deer pods and snow leopard-related items (please say no to that). These are protected species under both Nepali law and international conservation agreements.
Finally, carry your waste out! The Khumbu's ecosystem is fragile at altitude, and the principle of leaving nothing behind is not just a guideline here; it is a responsibility!
The Adventure A One Treks package for this 19-day itinerary covers your airport transfer on arrival in Kathmandu, your Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu permits, a licensed professional guide, all teahouse accommodation and meals on trekking days, and transport between Kathmandu and Lukla by domestic flight.
Contact our expert, Mr. Ajeeb Bhatta at Adventure A One Treks for a full itemized quote based on your group size and travel dates. For solo trekkers and custom groups, individual pricing is available with complete transparency on inclusions and exclusions.
What is not included in the package: your international flights, Nepal tourist visa fees (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days), travel insurance, personal expenses on the trail such as hot showers and extra beverages, and guide and porter tipping.
Also, note that the standard tipping rate across all Himalayan treks in Nepal is approximately 10% of your total package cost. That will be distributed among your guide, porter, and driver.
Furthermore, make sure to budget at least a minimum of USD 500 to 600 separately as a contingency for weather delays, extended stays, or emergency expenses.
The 19-day itinerary covers the full core circuit, but several options allow you to extend or deepen the experience based on your interests and available time.
For any of these additions, contact our expert, Mr. Ajeeb Bhatta at Adventure A One Treks, so we can adjust the itinerary and logistics before your departure!
The A1 Treks team meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport with a paging board and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. The rest of the day is yours. If you need last-minute gear, Thamel's shops are better stocked and priced than anything in Lukla.
At approximately 6:00 PM, your lead guide visits for a pre-trek briefing covering the full itinerary, gear check, permits, and questions. Have your gear accessible rather than buried. If your flight arrives late, the briefing shifts to the next morning.
In normal season, the Lukla flight from Kathmandu takes about 45 minutes. In peak season, it departs from Manthali Airport, requiring a 2:30 AM departure from Kathmandu and a 4-hour drive.
Your team handles all transport logistics. After landing in Lukla (2,840 m), one of our guide processes the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit before trekking begins for you.
Note that the trail descends mostly to Phakding through several settlements, and the Dudh Koshi river will be by your side throughout. You'll reach Phakding by mid-afternoon and rest well there.
The trail on the third day follows the Dudh Koshi river for more than 5 to 6 hour hike. You'll be passing through Bengkar and Chhumowa before entering the Sagarmatha National Park formally crossing the entrance gate at Monjo.
Again, your guide handles the permit check! Stop for lunch at Jorsale. After lunch, cross the Hillary Bridge and begin the sustained 600 m climb to Namche over 3 to 4 km.
In clear weather, your first Everest view appears through a valley notch above Jorsale on this ascent.
This is an acclimatization day, not a rest day. The morning hike climbs to the Everest View Hotel at roughly 3,880 m, giving clear sightlines to Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Return to Namche for lunch, then spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace. The Saturday market, bakeries, gear shops, and cafes are all within a short walk.
You sleep at the same altitude, but the morning elevation gain helps your body adapt significantly faster for the days ahead.
Today's route leaves the standard EBC path and heads west from Namche toward Thame, a Sherpa village most EBC trekkers never reach.
The trail rises through Syangboche and Sanasa, then follows the Bhote Koshi valley westward through forest and yak pasture.
Thame at 3,800 m sits in a wide valley with steep mountain walls on three sides. Thame Monastery on the hillside above the village is worth visiting in the afternoon. The surrounding valley is considerably quieter than the main EBC corridor.!
From your last night's stay at Thame, the trail now continues northwest up towards the Bhote Koshi valley. You'll be gaining roughly 580 meters over 5 to 6 hours through Thengbo and Marlung.
The landscape shifts from forested valley to open high-altitude terrain as you climb. Lungdhen at 4,380 m sits beside the Bhote Koshi and Renjo Khola rivers, with the Renjo La Pass route visible rising to the northeast.
Sleep early and eat well. Tomorrow's 3:00 to 4:00 AM departure gives you the best conditions for the first of three passes.
Wake before dawn and begin the Renjo La ascent. The trail from Lungdhen climbs about 1,000 m over 4 to 5 hours, passing the high-altitude lakes of Angladumba Tsho, Relama Tsho, and Renjo Tsho before the pass at 5,360 m.
From the summit, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu spread across the horizon, with the Gokyo Lakes visible directly below on the descent side. The 3-hour descent to Gokyo (4,790 m) involves loose scree and rock. Take care in wet or icy conditions.
The morning is for Gokyo Ri. The hike from Gokyo village to the 5,357 m summit covers roughly 2 km with about 570 m of gain and takes 2 to 3 hours. From the top, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu are simultaneously visible alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier below.
Return to Gokyo for lunch, then explore the lakes. The first three are within a 3 km walk. The fourth, Thonak Tsho at 4,870 m, is 2.5 km further north. Your guide advises based on energy and conditions.
A shorter day, covering about 7 km in 3 to 4 hours as the route moves south from Gokyo toward the Cho La approach. The trail crosses the Ngozumpa Glacier's lateral moraine, a section of boulder hopping and loose terrain that is more demanding than the distance suggests.
Thangna (also referred to as Dragnag) at 4,650 m is a small cluster of basic lodges used primarily as a staging point before the Cho La. Rest well in the afternoon. Tomorrow's crossing is the most technically demanding pass of the three.
An early start is essential. Your guide assesses conditions before departure and may delay if fresh snow has fallen. Follow that guidance.
From Thangna, the ascent covers roughly 4.5 km over 4 to 5 hours through Leisyasa at 4,660 m before the glaciated upper section. Crampons are required near the top.
Keep to the left side of the glacier; the right side has significant crevasse risk. The descent to Dzongla (4,830 m) involves icy, rocky terrain and exposed traversing sections that need careful attention.
From Dzongla, the trail drops to Thok La (Dughla, 4,620 m) before ascending to Lobuche, covering roughly 10 km over 5 to 6 hours. The first half is mostly downhill; the second half climbs back up to the main Khumbu corridor.
Stop at the memorial chortens at Thok La, dedicated to mountaineers who died on Everest and other Khumbu peaks. Above Thok La, the trail crosses the Khumbu Glacier terminal moraine before arriving in Lobuche at 4,940 m. Eat well tonight. Tomorrow is the EBC day.
Leave Lobuche early and reach Gorak Shep (5,164 m) by mid-morning via the Italian Pyramid Research Center at 5,000 m. Leave your main pack at the lodge, carry only essentials, and continue the 3 km to Everest Base Camp immediately after a quick lunch.
The trail crosses rocky glacier surface and arrives at 5,364 m in about 1.5 hours. The Khumbu Icefall is directly ahead. Gorak Shep is the highest sleeping point of the trek. Drink hot water continuously after returning and sleep early.
Wake at 3:30 to 4:00 AM. Set out your headlamp, warm layers, and camera before sleeping the night before; arranging gear at altitude in the dark is harder than it sounds.
The hike from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar covers about 2 km with 480 m of gain and takes 45 to 60 minutes.
The 5,644 m summit gives the most direct view of Everest's south face available to trekkers without a climbing permit. After sunrise, descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then return to Lobuche.
The third and final pass. From Lobuche, the ascent to Kongma La (5,535 m) covers roughly 600 m of steep rocky gain over 4 to 5 hours. This is the highest of the three passes and arrives when cumulative fatigue is at its peak.
From the summit, views extend to Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The descent drops roughly 800 m to Chhukung (4,730 m) across the Khumbu Glacier moraine, covering 12 km in total. The sustained high-altitude section of the trek is now complete.
A welcome descent day from Chhukung through the Imja Valley to Pangboche. The 10 km hike takes 5 to 6 hours, passing Dingboche (4,410 m) and the lower Imja Khola valley with Ama Dablam and Thamserku visible along most of the route.
Pangboche at 3,985 m is one of the highest permanently inhabited Sherpa villages in the Khumbu. Pangboche Monastery, the oldest gompa in the region, reportedly dates from the early 18th century. Visit in the afternoon before dinner. The lower altitude tonight brings genuine physical relief.
The Three Passes trek route goes back to Namche today after covering roughly 10 km in 5 to 6 hours. That means you'll descend through Tengboche, Phungi Thanga, and the forested lower valley you crossed the earlier day.
Stop briefly at Tengboche Monastery at 3,860 m, the largest gompa in the Khumbu, with direct views of Ama Dablam and Everest. Arriving back in Namche after 12 days in the upper Khumbu feels noticeably different.
The bakeries, restaurant variety, and comparative warmth at 3,440 m are worth taking time to appreciate. Tonight is a reasonable moment to celebrate the three passes circuit.
The final trekking day and the longest single distance of the entire circuit: roughly 19 km from Namche to Lukla in about 7 to 8 hours. The trail descends through Phakding and the Dudh Koshi valley.
Familiar landmarks appear in reverse order, and the terrain that felt demanding on Day 2 moves quickly now. Arrive in Lukla in the late afternoon.
Confirm your flight time with your guide before sleeping and pack carefully tonight. The morning flight needs no rushed last-minute decisions.
The flight follows the same logistics as Day 2 in reverse. Normal season is a direct 45-minute flight from Lukla. Peak season means an early Lukla departure and a drive through to Kathmandu, typically arriving by midday. Back in Kathmandu, the afternoon is free.
Today's evening comes with a farewell cultural dinner with traditional Nepalese folk music and dance, arranged by our A1 Treks team. Not to forget that you will also receive a trek completion certificate before the evening ends.
Have breakfast and pack for the airport transfer. One of our A1 representatives will collect you from the hotel just a few hours before your international flight.
Just let us know your confirmed departure schedule a few days prior so we can plan accordingly.
If you want to extend your Nepal stay, the Adventure A One Treks team can arrange short tours: Kathmandu heritage zones, a Chitwan National Park wildlife safari, or a Pokhara adventure visit.
Additional costs apply, though. For returning guests, we offer loyalty discounts on future treks and tours. Our door stays open.
Made it in march 2020... Great organisation, landscapes... To be recommended
This trek to Everest Three Passes via Adventure A One Treks in Spring 2022 was an incredible experience that I will never forget. Ajeeb Bhatta, the owner of the company, was a tremendous help throughout our planning, and provided us with expert guidance and tips to make our experience enjoyable and worry-free. The guide was also extremely knowledgeable about the area, and was able to answer all of our questions about the history and culture of the region. Additionally, the accommodation, food and service provided by the team were of the highest quality, and ensured that we were comfortable throughout the whole trip. Overall, I'm incredibly grateful for Ajeeb's expert guidance throughout our trip, and for helping to make our experience a wonderful one. I would rate this trek 5 stars for its unrivalled beauty and satisfaction.
Our Everest Three Passes Trek with Adventure A One Treks was an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning mountain views and amazing experiences. Crossing the three high passes was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Special thanks to Ajeeb Bhatta for the excellent organization and constant support throughout the trek. Our guide was professional, friendly, and very knowledgeable about the Everest region. Everything from accommodation to meals was well managed, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a true Himalayan adventure!
The Everest Three Passes Trek with Adventure A One Treks exceeded all our expectations. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, and every day brought a new adventure in the Himalayas. Huge appreciation to Ajeeb Bhatta and the entire team for their outstanding service, careful planning, and genuine care during the trek. Our guide made the journey both safe and enjoyable with his experience and positive attitude. If you want an authentic and well-organized Everest trekking experience, this company is a fantastic choice.
My Everest Three Pass Trek with Adventure A One Treks exceeded all expectations. The trek combined adventure, stunning mountain scenery, and cultural experiences in the most incredible way. Crossing Cho La Pass and Renjo La Pass was both challenging and exciting, with spectacular panoramic views at every step. From peaceful Sherpa villages to massive glaciers and high mountain passes, the entire journey felt truly special. Everything was managed smoothly, including accommodation, meals, permits, and daily trekking arrangements. The staff was friendly, experienced, and always encouraging throughout the trek. This was a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure, and I would happily recommend Adventure A One Treks to anyone planning a trek in Nepal.
I had an amazing adventure with A1Treks. I would like to give special thanks to the director of the company Mr Ajeeb Bhatta sir and A1 Treks for a lovely experience. I had 19 days fun trip ittianary. And My hike to Kala Patthar was an unforgettable one. I would highly recommend this trek to any one who is looking for an adventure!
Everest Three Passes Trek is an epic Himalayan journey through three of the highest passes in the world. It is reflected as one of Nepal's most challenging and adventurous treks.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a loop circuit in the Khumbu region of Nepal that crosses three high mountain passes, Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m), while also including Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Ri, and the Gokyo Lakes.
The standard itinerary at Adventure A One Treks runs 19 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including arrival, acclimatization, 17 days of active hiking and exploration, and a final departure day.
The total trekking distance of the Everest Three Passes Trek, from Lukla is approximately 155 to 165 km. However, this depends on optional side hikes (like to the upper Gokyo Lakes or Chhukung Ri) too.
The highest point of the Everest Three Passes Trek is Kala Patthar at 5,644 m, same as the EBC route. Among the passes, Kongma La is the highest one situated at 5,535 m, followed by Cho La at 5,420 m, and the lowest one is Renjo La at 5,360 m.
Yes. Prior experience at altitude, ideally above 3,500 m, is important before attempting this route. The passes involve technical terrain and extended periods above 5,000 m that are genuinely demanding without prior altitude exposure.
Two permits are required: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals) and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (NPR 3,000 for the first 30 days). Adventure A One Treks handles both permits for all guests.
No. The TIMS card was replaced by the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit in 2022 for treks in the Everest region. The new permit is obtained in Lukla, not Kathmandu.
Legally, a guide is not compulsory for this route (unlike restricted areas such as Manaslu or Upper Mustang). However, attempting the passes without an experienced guide, particularly Cho La and Kongma La, involves significant risk. Our team strongly recommends a licensed professional guide.
Yes, the Adventure A One Treks package includes a licensed guide and porter service. Porter weight limits apply (usually 10 to 12 kg per porter), meaning your main duffel bag goes to the porter and you carry a 7 to 10 kg daypack yourself.
WiFi is available in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo, but reliability above Namche is inconsistent. Above Lobuche, WiFi is effectively unavailable. Manage expectations around connectivity before departure and purchase a local SIM card with data in Kathmandu.
Dal bhat, thukpa (noodle soup), fried rice, eggs, Tibetan bread, and momo are reliable throughout. Above Namche, western options are available but variable in quality. Above Lobuche, menus simplify significantly. Dal bhat remains the best energy option for sustained hiking days.
You should pack only the essential items and not overpack. The items you can't miss are: insulated down jacket, waterproof hard shell jacket, mid-layer fleece, moisture-wicking base layers, warm trekking trousers, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, trekking poles, crampons or microspikes, a 30 to 40 L daypack (since you'll be with a porter), headlamp with extra batteries, a power bank (20,000 mAh minimum), sunscreen, lip balm, and a comprehensive first aid kit with altitude medication (including acetazolamide).
Yes. Crampons are required for the glaciated section of Cho La Pass and are advisable on Kongma La in most conditions. Bring or rent them before the trek, as reliable rental options in upper lodges are limited.
The best one is the NTC (Nepal Telecom) SIM card as it provides the most reliable signal in the Everest region. In fact, you get signal even in the remote sections, like Thame and the upper Gokyo valley. Ncell coverage is less consistent above Namche. Purchase and activate your SIM in Kathmandu before flying to Lukla.
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,400 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,240 |
| 5 - 9 | $1,180 |
| 10 - 20 | $1,050 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,350 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,219 |
| 5 - 9 | $1,124 |
| 10 - 20 | $1,099 |
