Overview
The Everest Three Pass Trek is the most adventurous and comprehensive trekking route in the Everest region, crossing three high Himalayan passes and visiting Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley, and remote Sherpa settlements. Starting with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the trail gradually ascends through Namche Bazaar into the rugged alpine landscapes of eastern Khumbu.
Trekkers cross the legendary high passes of Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass, each offering breathtaking Himalayan panoramas. The route also includes the iconic Everest Base Camp, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and the famous viewpoints of Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking the ultimate Everest adventure.
Trip Highlights
- Cross three high Himalayan passes above 5,000 m
- Reach Everest Base Camp
- Climb Kala Patthar for Everest sunrise views
- Explore Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Lakes
- Summit Gokyo Ri viewpoint
- Trek remote and less crowded trails
- Experience Sherpa culture and villages
- Walk beside glaciers and high alpine terrain
- Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
- Most complete Everest region trekking circuit
Itinerary
Begin your Everest adventure with a scenic early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, meet your trekking team and begin the trek to Phakding, following the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages. The trail is gentle and perfect for warming up while adjusting to the altitude. Enjoy the vibrant village life and fresh mountain air, making your first trekking experience memorable. Overnight in a cozy teahouse in Phakding.
Trek from Phakding to the bustling Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, a major trading hub in the Khumbu region. The trail crosses several suspension bridges and passes through small villages, offering stunning views of mountains like Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. Namche Bazaar is lively, with shops and cafes where trekkers can explore. Arrive and rest while soaking in the cultural atmosphere. An overnight stay provides excellent opportunities to meet fellow trekkers and locals.
Spend a day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatise and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Optional short hikes to Everest View Hotel or Syangboche Airstrip provide panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Explore local markets, enjoy fresh coffee, and interact with Sherpa families. This day allows your body to adjust comfortably to higher elevations while enjoying the vibrant town. Evening relaxation in the teahouse ensures you’re ready for the next challenging leg.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, famous for its iconic monastery. The route gradually ascends through forests of rhododendron and pine, offering frequent views of Ama Dablam. Visit Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of Khumbu, and witness monks performing daily rituals. The village provides serene mountain scenery, perfect for photography. Overnight in a comfortable teahouse with traditional Nepalese meals.
Depart Tengboche and trek to Dingboche, ascending through Pangboche and lush valleys. The trail gradually rises, and the air becomes crisp, making your body work harder. Take in stunning views of Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and the Imja Khola valley. Dingboche is a high-altitude village with charming stone houses and tea lodges. Evening walks around the village provide perfect acclimatisation.
Spend a full day acclimatising in Dingboche. Hike up to Nagarjun Hill or nearby ridges to enjoy views of Makalu and Lhotse. Short hikes help your body adjust to high altitude while preventing altitude sickness. This day also allows you to rest, enjoy local Sherpa hospitality, and prepare for the demanding Kongma La pass. Evening tea and conversation with fellow trekkers make for a relaxing experience.
Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung, following the Imja Khola and passing scenic stone terraces. The village is a gateway to Island Peak and offers dramatic Himalayan scenery. Chhukung is ideal for final preparation before crossing Kongma La Pass. Interact with locals and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The teahouses provide cosy warmth and hearty meals to refuel for the next day.
Begin the challenging day early, crossing Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters, offering panoramic views of Cho Oyu and Everest. The trek is physically demanding with steep sections and rocky terrain. Descend towards Lobuche, passing glacial moraines and high-altitude landscapes. Celebrate reaching Lobuche, a small settlement at 4,940 meters, with warm tea and a hearty dinner. Rest well to recover from the pass crossing.
Depart Lobuche early for the iconic Everest Base Camp trek. Walk along the Khumbu Glacier, stopping at memorials and observing climbers’ preparation zones. Reach EBC, soak in the spectacular views of Everest and surrounding peaks, and then continue to Gorakshep for overnight stay. The day is both physically and emotionally rewarding, offering an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a celebratory dinner in Gorakshep with other trekkers.
Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for a sunrise view of Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori. The ascent is steep but offers arguably the best Everest panorama. After the hike, descend via Gorakshep and trek to Dzongla through rugged terrain. The trek provides stunning glacier and mountain views, perfect for photography. Overnight stay in Dzongla offers rest and hot meals.
Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m), one of the three major passes of the trek. The ascent is challenging, with ice and rocky paths. After descending to Thagnak, enjoy views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. The village is small but welcoming, offering teahouse stays and traditional meals. Take your time to rest and soak in the high-altitude environment.
Trek from Thagnak to Gokyo, passing serene lakes and panoramic mountain vistas. The route passes Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest in the region. Explore Gokyo village, a peaceful settlement ideal for rest before tackling Renjo La Pass. Evening walk around Gokyo Lake is perfect for photography and relaxation.
Early hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for sunrise views over Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. Descend and continue trekking to cross Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), offering expansive Himalayan panoramas. The descent takes you to a lower valley with lush terrain, making the trek scenic yet challenging. Overnight in a teahouse along the trail with warm meals.
Descend from Renjo La and the Gokyo region towards Namche Bazaar. The trail passes rhododendron forests, Sherpa villages, and suspension bridges. Take your time to enjoy the cultural ambience of Namche and shop for souvenirs. Overnight stay in familiar teahouses provides comfort and relaxation after long days at high altitude.
Final day of trekking from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Descend through forests and villages, reflecting on your Everest adventure. Reach Lukla in the afternoon, celebrate with your team, and prepare for your flight to Kathmandu. Enjoy the last teahouse dinner with a sense of accomplishment.
Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Use the rest of the day to relax, explore Thamel, or shop for souvenirs. Reflect on the unforgettable experience of completing the Everest Three Pass Trek.
Includes
Cost Includes
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)
- Sagarmatha National Park & local permits
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service (shared basis)
- Tea house accommodation
- Three meals per day during trek
- Staff insurance
- Government taxes & service charges
Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear
- Hot shower, WiFi, charging fees
- Alcoholic & bottled drinks
- Tips for guide and porter
- Personal expenses
FAQs
It is very challenging due to three high passes above 5,000 m.
5,545 m at Kala Patthar (passes around 5,300–5,420 m).
Yes, strong fitness and high-altitude trekking experience required.
Typically 16–18 days depending on itinerary
Spring and Autumn for stable weather and safe pass crossings.
Yes, due to extreme altitude; proper acclimatization essential.
No climbing gear needed, but steep, snowy, and demanding.
It covers Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, and all major high passes.
Experienced trekkers seeking the ultimate Everest challenge.

