Everest Three Passes Trek leads you to EBC, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and 3 iconic passes of Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La, all in one adventure. Get a chance to gaze at the enchanting Gokyo Lake, Khumbu Glacier from Gokyo Ri, and the panorama of Mount Everest with other iconic peaks, from several famous vantage points.
Everest Three Passes Trek Overview:
The Three Passes Trek stands out as one of the hottest trending destinations among adventurers who are craving to discover the hidden treasure of the Khumbu Valley. Thinking just about crossing three challenging yet rewarding high passes within the Everest region of Kongma La Pass (5535 m.), Cho La Pass (5420 m.), and Renjo La Pass (5370 m.) feels like a surreal experience. But this trek is more than that, as it leads you to the vantage point of Gokyo Ri, Kalapatthar, and the base camp of none other than Mt. Everest, exploring the Khumbu and Ngozumpa glaciers.
Apart from that, this journey of the Everest Three Passes Trek also discovers five frozen lakes coming straight out of the mountains, including the famous Gokyo Lakes. To sum up, we can simply call it the "Everest Circuit Trek," a perfect combination trip that encompasses every corner of this region, showcasing multiple angles and panoramic views of some of the legendary peaks.
This Everest 3 passes trekking itinerary begins with a nerve-wracking flight to Lukla and traverses through the settlements of Sherpa Villages such as Thame, Namche Bazaar, Phakding, Lobuche, Chhukung, Lungden, Tengboche, Dingboche, and many others, allowing us to get a lively experience of the rich culture and tradition of the locals. Do you know that “The Sherpas” is the shadow of every submitter that helps every mountaineer dreamer to conquer the toughest and tallest peaks? Being the hometown of Kami Rita Sherpa, summitting the world’s highest mountain 30 times, and Pasang Dawa Sherpa, 27 times, truly defines the rich significance these small, lovely villages hold. Therefore, it is a perfect chance to unfold the stories of great submitters and create a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Entering the wilderness of Sagarmatha National Park, right from the start and trailing in the home of more than 300 species and fauna, we can feel the essence and tranquillity of the Himalayas. On top of that, paying a visit to ancient monasteries such as “Tengboche Monastery” and “Pengboche Gompa” surrounded by mani walls, ancient sculptures, thangka Buddhist paintings, and a colourful flag, surely promises to transport us to the 90s, far away from the modern world.
But, this is not the end! Get ready to see a skull of none other than "The Yeti" or the snow creature at "Khumjung Monastery" as we will get there as well on our acclimatisation day of this thrilling journey of the Everest 3 Passes Trek.
While we might think that this is the end of breathtaking encounters! There is more to this trek. Reaching the Everest Base Camp and ascending to the Kala Patthar shows us unhindered views of many other snowcapped peaks such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and not to forget! 360-degree views of Everest under the golden sun rays of light make our footprints on the trail worth every effort.
For adventure seekers who love challenges and want to feel a mini mountaineering experience, this trek is outstanding for you. Meanwhile, if you are a beginner but still seek to experience the thrill of reaching the EBC and crossing one of the passes, you can opt for our Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes, which leads you to Cho La Pass and the Gokyo Valley at the same time.
Looking forward to signing up for this adventurous trip? Wait, no longer. Destination Himalaya Treks offers this 19-day Everest Three High Passes Trek with properly set acclimatisation days, excursions to meaningful spots, and special group discounts. Get your gear ready and dust off your hiking boots; our sherpa guides are all set to befriend you on this thrilling journey.
Highlights
- Walk through Sagarmatha National Park right from the beginning of the trail, where the forests are decorated with the blooming colours of rhododendrons and pines
- Pass by cascading river falls, crossing several suspension bridges over Bhote Koshi River and Dush Koshi River (Milky River)
- Reach the vantage point of Gokyo Ri and witness the blue turquoise like the famous Gokyo Lakes, surrounded by landscapes and mountains
- Cross three iconic legendary passes (Kongma La, Renjo La, and Cho La) and scream your heart out, feeling a sense of achievement
- A once-in-a-lifetime nail-biting flight of Lukla; Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu
- Stand in the world's highest mountain launchpad- Everest Base Camp (EBC) and get a glimpse of the shining Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall
- Experience the heartwarming hospitality and culture of Sherpa communities
- Sip a cup of tea/coffee, witnessing the up-close views of several Himalayan peaks from the world's highest-situated 5-star hotel- "Everest View Hotel"
- Pay a visit to the ancient monasteries of Tengboche, Pangboche, and Khumjung Gompa, surrounded by mani walls, chortens, and prayers of monks
- Push your limits and reach the Kala Patthar viewpoint- 5545 meters, witnessing the panoramic, unobstructed views of Mt. Everest with many other snowy mountains
- Get a chance to walk along the Himalaya's largest glacier- Ngozumpa glacier
What makes the Everest 3 Passes Trek special for 2025 and 2026?
Undoubtedly, the Khumbu region is rapidly gaining fame from many social media platforms that tend to captivate hikers across the globe, as legendary peaks reside here. Searching on Wikipedia or any source, thousands of recommendations are always popping out, showing many trekking packages along the trail, including Nepal's three passes. So, you might be questioning whether this adventure is worth trying or if it is really special to keep on your next bucket list. Here are five five-finger-countable reasons that make you choose this adventurous Three Passes Trek over any other expeditions here in Nepal:
Crossing Everest: Three Pinnacles in one single trip: A self-reflection journey
Just imagine embarking on a trail of just 19 days that visits the 3 legendary Everest pinnacles, sounds impossible, right? As the name implies, this journey lets you cross over Nepal's three passes: Cho La Pass, Renjo La Pass, and Kongma La Pass, in just one go without burning your pockets, as it covers all of them in 1 single package, saving your time and thousands of dollars.
Apart from that, reaching the top isn't a joke; it is filled with a roller coaster ride that demands high sweat, endurance, power, and consistency. This trek demands a high patience level in every step as passing by the rough terrains, steep ascents, and snowy, slippery paths isn't anyone's cup of tea. After all the hurdles, and finally completing this trip, it unlocks a new adventure in your life, connecting deeply with the Khumbu Himalayas and landscapes.
Uncovered Mountain Views and Diverse Landscapes
This perfect combination brings out the best of nature, resembling a scene straight from a dream. From the very beginning, you will traverse through dense forests of rhododendrons and pines, passing by waterfalls, flowing rivers, suspension bridges, and towering landscapes. As soothing as it sounds, the highlight is the breathtaking views of glorious mountains such as Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Pumori, Makalu, and Mount Everest. Trekkers can witness the gradual yet rewarding transition from lush greenery to the stunning alpine valleys, revealing the beauty of hidden, crusty, brown, rugged landscapes.
An Exhilarating Hike to Gokyo Ri: Discovering the Emerald Holy Gokyo Lake
One of the fascinating parts of this Everest Three High Passes Trek is that we get to cover another top-rated destination: the Gokyo Lake Trek as well. Yes, you heard it! On this trip, before passing Cho La, we will stay 1 day here in Gokyo Valley, serving as a perfect excursion and acclimatisation day. In the morning, we will ascend to the vantage point of Gokyo Ri, passing by the Ngozumpa Glacier, the Himalaya's biggest glacier. Reaching the viewpoint of the stunning vista of sunrise over snowcapped peaks with landscapes surrounded by prayer flags flapping in the high winds brings a unique insight into nature.
Furthermore, we also get to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the holy Gokyo lakes, said to be the "highest freshwater in the world". There are a total of 5 frozen lakes, and Thonak Lake is considered the biggest of all. Watching a glimpse of Gokyo Lake nearly it truly looks like a green emerald diamond, and the surreal part is! The glorious mountains sparkle stunningly in the reflection of this holy lake.
Reaching Everest Base Camp- the foothill of the world's highest peak
What more do we need when we can reach the lap of the world's tallest mountain, Everest, after crossing the thrilling, iconic passes? It is a rewarding experience, as getting to the launchpad and standing in the shadow of the glorious peak where many climbers dream to be is not a simple thing. Reach here and scream your heart out joyfully, where several peaks such as Tharmseku, Ama Dablam, and Baruntse, along the Khumbu Icefall and Khumbu Glacier, surround you, creating a lifetime memory within us of this odyssey.
Ascending to the almighty Kala Patthar- 5545 meters
Willing to get the best panoramic views of Mt. Everest without climbing it? Well, the vantage point of Kalapathar awaits you! It is one of the best Everest viewpoints anyone could ever get a view of the global highest peak. Even though standing at Everest Base Camp (EBC) shows the multi-angle views of many renowned peaks. But the actual game-changer is Kalapathar, where we can see the front panoramic view of Mount Everest. It is the highest anyone could ever reach without a climbing permit, so you can imagine what speciality this viewpoint holds.
Can you do the Everest Three Pass Trek?
Noting down who can reach the Everest 3 Passes, prejudice, is not the right thing to do; anyone with positive persistence and having an endurance capacity will one hundred per cent conquer the new height. The highest you go on this trip is 5545 meters, at Kala Patthar, which is surely not a stroll around Disney Land or dining at fine dining restaurants; the route has some leg-trembling ascents and descents, with limited amenities, which is surely not anyone's cup of tea. However, these certain heights will for sure not let the beginners settle back, as this Three Passes Trek itinerary is carefully customised, for a straight 14 days, just within the Everest region, hence, as the day passes by gradually, you will naturally adapt to the rising high elevations, with the body getting used to of thin, unusual air.
However, because the route, does demands a hike of 5-7 hours per day, through steep and rugged sections for some days, a basic level of fitness is required. As higher, you ascend higher, it gets tougher, with the panoramic views surrounding you as a reward after challenges. If you are a beginner, then just engage in some kind of cardiovascular exercises, and develop a strong winning mindset, whereas experienced pro hikers get ready to enlist in one of the top-notch expeditions ticked off.
Nonetheless, the cost and itinerary can be customised as per your demand and specific choices, regarding holiday duration, pace, and physical level of fitness. Also, apart from this, you might consider the classic Gokyo Lake Trek, Everest View Trek, and Everest Base Camp with Helicopter Return, and many other packages with us.
How does our itinerary directly contribute to the safe and successful completion of the trip?
We typically recommend following this Everest 3 pass Trek route in a clockwise route, where you cross Renjo La, then Cho La, and only go for Kongma La- 5357 meters due to specific advantages that deliver your maximum opportunity to succeed across all three passes with safety, in addition to providing stunning views throughout your journey.
That is why our Three Passes Trek itinerary is set accordingly to ensure safety at the first hand so you can gradually adapt to the rising elevation and safely ascend the higher sections later on. Successfully crossing two of the high passes and standing at the top of Kalapatthar and Everest Base Camp with thorough preparation not only builds your confidence but also greatly boosts your energy and motivation as you approach the challenging Kongma La Pass.
However, if you want to cross Kongma La Pass - the challenging section first then visit Everest Base Camp (EBC) and then go for the other two passes following Cho La and Renjo La on the second phase, then you can opt for our Everest Three Passes Trek anticlockwise, this adventure surely becomes one of a thrill for adventure who wants to push their limits and unlock new heights.
What happens if any uncertain situation occurs on the trailhead?
There's simply no doubt that in the Himalayas, that too with such high elevation, it poses many challenges, where you can seriously expect the unexpected, as this Himalayan adventure leads you to an altitude above sea level, more than 3000 meters per day. As, higher as you ascend higher, the air gets thinner, and you can feel the lower oxygen level, which might suffocate you, especially when you are a beginner. Yes, expect that on the first hand, if you are not prepared well. The most common thing that you must expect is the risk of altitude sickness, frequent unfortunate weather fluctuations, and the possibility of minor injuries, like blisters or small, bandageable injuries.
So, along with that, you might wonder what happens if such situations come at such remote places, where the accessibility to medical emergencies is almost zero, with only small health posts. Please, take a reminder that, which is why planning and preparations must be done, not only following the safe routes, navigation, or opting best prevention method, however, to the probability of dangers as well. Hence, this is why we suggest that you must opt for the travel insurance company that covers all the essentials, such as minor injuries, theft, flight delay and cancellations, medical expenses and most importantly, the helicopter evacuation over 3000 meters, which can save your money, but also, keeps you in peace with a free mind, with a backup planning.
Here are the things that we follow for the quick emergency response for any kind of medical or emergency matter:
- Firstly, if any immediate situations occur, like if you feel some kind of symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), such as minor headaches, a bit of dizziness, difficulty in breathing (a bit unusual, than other days), or tiredness (physical muscle-draining condition), then, looking at the condition, on how serious it is, by your experienced local guide, he will check your pulse rate via oximeter, and if it is normal, and you are just, getting a mild mountain sickness, then, we highly suggest to take 1 buffer day, at the tea house, to ease yourself, and continue the hike on the other day.
- Secondly, if minor injuries, like blisters, muscle strains, ankle or knee sprains (common injuries) occur, then the trekking guide medically helps and guides you, as he's medically equipped and trained to as so; however, to avoid such, avoid wearing fitting boots, wet socks, and hydrate properly.
- Thirdly, if severe altitude sickness like dizziness (losing control), vomiting, skin turning pale (completely grey), drop of pulse rate, frequent nausea, something similar to this, then the helicopter evacuation is done in an immediate way (covered by your trip insurance), so make sure to attain one, checking thoroughly the policies.
Important Notice regarding Lukla Flight Information
Please take note that the Lukla Flight, due to the heavy traffic flow and weather disturbance in peak seasons, might get delayed, or cancelled for a few 1-2 days, so set an extra day, leaving 3-4 days, leisure time back home. In the meantime, during March, April, May, October, and November, the flight to Lukla might be diverted to Manthali/Ramechhap due to high air traffic. If that happens, then we will take a 5-6-hour roadway drive in the early morning, approximately at 3 AM, on the planned day, and take a flight to Tenzing-Hillary Lukla Airport.
Alternatively, if you prefer, we can take a helicopter ride directly to Lukla and continue the trek, following the route to Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and then the Everest Three Passes Trekking route from Thame to Gokyo Lake. This way, you can save time and also enjoy the breathtaking aerial view over the Himalayan range, in comfort; however, there is an additional cost of USD 450 to USD 550 per head, sharing the heli ride with 5 other passengers.
Route and Daily Distance Coverage: What you must know
The total distance that the regular 19-day Everest Three Pass Trek covers is approximately 192.5 kilometres (118 miles), that reaches to the highest elevation of 5545 meters, at Kala Patthar, with a daily distance of 8 to 12 kilometres per day through varied kinds of terrains and trailheads. Reaching the Tenzing-Hillary Airport (2830 m) from Kathmandu (1360 m) in 35 minutes via Lukla Flight, with an elevation gain of 1200 meters, then crosses the first high pass of Renjo La (5360 m), following the route of Thame (3770 m), Lungden (4550 m), Gokyo Lake (4746 m).
Then, persisting with the hike further, with an uphill walk to the second high pass of Cho La - 5420 meters, then rejoins the regular route to EBC, touching the iconic spot of Lobuche at 4910 m, and takes an ascent to the Kalapatthar (5545 meters) via Everest Base Camp (5364 m). Continuing ahead, the trail leads you to Lobuche (4910 m), to Chhukung, and then crosses the final 3 high passes of Kongma La Pass (5535 m). Descending, with a downhill walk to Chhukung (4760 meters), Monjo (2835 m), and Namche Bazaar, with a visit to Tengboche monastery and the world's highest 5-star Everest View Hotel, and then, the trip concludes with a Lukla Flight back to Kathmandu, with an elevation gain and loss of approximately 6800 meters (22450 feet).
Three Passes Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026
Our Everest Three Passes Trek cost starts from USD 1299 to USD 1795, per head, which includes all the requirements for this trip, such as permits, lodging, standard meals, logistics, overall everything essential. The price depends on how many trekkers each group holds. For instance, if you are solo to do this trek, then it can cost you $ 1699, and the price decreases with the increase in team members. However, if you are a family travelling with children, then let us know; we can provide you with special family discounts.
Meanwhile, if it doesn't match your budget estimation, then you can simply customise this 19-day Everest Three High Passes Trek itinerary as your choice with no hassle, as our team is available 24 hours to assist you. Here is the costing overview, based on the no. of hikers that your group holds, especially customised for 2025 and 2026:
| No. of Hikers | Price (In USD) |
| 1 | 1795 per head |
| 2-3 | 1495 per head |
| 4-7 | 1425 per head |
| 8-11 | 1299 per head |
10% off for Winter Treks in 2025 and 5 % Upcoming Spring/ Autumn 2026
On the other hand, if you are planning the Three Passes Trek in winter, then we offer 10% off the total cost, considering special discounts from December to February, appreciating your willingness to undertake this journey, even in such a season, where you can expect the trip to be a bit challenging, offering the soltitude of frosty covered peaks, and tranquil of less crowded area.
At the same time, imagine thriving in the Himalayas, with your loved ones at New Year, Christmas day, Valentine's Day at thrilling Everest 3 Pinnacles, well, sounds soltitude? Tick off your bucket list by opening the year 2026, by acing the peaks, and reaching the lap of the world's tallest peak, and the enchanting beauty of Gokyo Lake.
On the other hand, for the early comers (pre-bookings), we offer 5% discount if booked before the month. For the upcoming peak seasons, Spring and Autumn, booking earlier also allows the best logistics, amenities availability, and window seat to the Lukla flight as well, to witness the breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayan giants.
Why trek with Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition?
With the experiences of more than two decades, we know what every enthusiastic trekker, like you, like wants. Keeping that in mind, our DHT team creates one of the best packages that caters to every hiker's preferences, time duration, and budget as well. We customise your itinerary just like you want
We are fully determined to be the shadow in your every step to the mountains; our guides are well-trained and medically equipped to help you complete any trek without any hassle. To date, we have given service to hundreds of hikers just within the Everest region. We believe that "your safety is our greatest treasure", and our DHT team ensures that you are acclimatised properly, due to which our 19-day package itinerary is well crafted by professionals. We've set 2 days of acclimatisation at Namche Bazaar and Gokyo Valley, so you'll gradually ascend to the high altitudes without any problem.
On top of that, our cost for the Everest 3 Passes Trekking 2025 and 2026 is shown in the package itself: "whatever you see, you get it".There's nothing such as hidden charges that can burn your pockets. We believe in 3 three things: "your safety, your comfort, and your satisfaction", so that every penny you have spent on this hike becomes worth it. If you have any queries, simply email us at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com, or just WhatsApp or directly call us at +977 9851016814. We are 24/7 available for your assistance.
Don't forget to check our other most loved and preferred thrilling packages within the Everest-Khumbu region. To make your journey pass by smoothly in comfort and ease, here are some of the additional benefits.
- Free stay in our hotel for 2-3 days, if you are extending the holiday here in Nepal, for further days, in Thamel, Kathmandu
- Free Airport pick-up and drop-off service via private vehicle
- Free Sightseeing Tour to UNESCO-Listed World Heritage Sites within Kathmandu and Bhaktapur
- Complimentary Nepalese Dining Restaurant as a welcome and farewell dinner
- Complimentary DHT T-shirt, Cap, and a Duffle Bag (will be carried by porters)
- Basic First Aid Kit, including an oximeter, to check the pulse rate, and a water purification tablet - to purify the water
- Detailed Trip Briefing via online before the booking and IN-PERSON Briefing upon arrival
- Free Luggage Storage as much as you can here, in our office
- 5% off for Early Birds, must be booked before the seasonal time
- 24/7 hour communication to track your safety en route (trekking trail), via Email, Viber, WhatsApp, Direct Call at +977 9851016814
Willing to shake hands with us for your thrilling expedition? Do not wait any longer, unchain your backpack and dust off the hiking boots that have been in your wardrobe for a long time. Destination Himalaya Treks welcomes you wholeheartedly, and our guides and porters are all geared up to befriend you at every step of the mountains.
