Everest Three High PassesEverest Three High Passes

Everest Three High Passes Trek

Highlights

Everest three high pass trekking

  • Reaching the top of three formidable mountain passes in the Khumbu region -Renjo La Pass (5,360m/17,585ft), Cho La Pass(5,420m/17,782ft), and Kongma La Pass(5,535m/18,159ft)
  • Views of majestic mountains, including Mt. Everest, Nupste, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, from two vantage points- Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar
  • Religious relics from different monasteries of the Khumbu region
  • Experience the lifestyle in the high Himalayan region through experiencing the richness of Sherpa culture
  • Fascinating view of the Khumbu, Imja, and Ngozumpa glaciers en route

Adventure over scenic high passes of Renjo-Tsho and Kongma-La

The Everest Three High Passes Trek is undoubtedly the most exhilarating yet adventurous exploration to devour the beauty of the high Himalayas. Highlighting the trek with its three high passes of the Khumbu region, Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Kongma La Pass, this trek is the ultimate voyage for adventurers and those seeking thrill in exploration. With the idea of touching the base of mighty Everest along with covering the high altitude passes you will have an up-close panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Amadablam, Thamserku, and other different surrounding peaks.

Walking through the alpine scenery encompassing suspension bridges, river gorges, stony staircases, and pine and rhododendron forest, you will enter the getaway of Everest, Namche Bazaar. Passing further settlement areas of Thame, Marulung, and Lungden, you will increase the intensity of the trek by following the route of the Renjo La Pass. After immersing yourself in the emerald beauty of Gokyo Lake, you will come across Cho La Pass. Following the glacial moraine of Ngozumpa Glacier, you will join the classic Everest base camp route from Lobuche.

Trekking through the glacial landscapes, you will traverse a distance full of boulders and scree before being awestruck by the view of the majestic Everest from the base camp. Adding more adrenaline rush to your exploration, you will come across another challenging mountain pass, Kongma La Pass. After successfully crossing the passes, you will retrace your path back to Lukla by walking through the soul-cleansing sight of Tengboche and other areas with religious mani walls and cairns.

Everest Three High Passes Trek is not only a mere exploration of the Himalayas but also an aspiring journey of cultural enrichment along with discovery and introspection of pushing limits and conquering the profound sense of accomplishment. So, are you ready to spike up your adventure of the Everest Three High Passes trek with the companionship of Explorer Adventure? If yes, we present you with this 20-day package to live your dream and share different moments of awe and wonder.

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Itinerary

Soaring with the clouds by being suspended in the air, you will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal. Upon arrival, you will deal with your custom procedures and luggage retrieval. Then you will meet with our company representatives at the airport terminal, where you will be transferred to your respective hotels. You will be given a good amount of time for rest so that you can freshen up from your long hours flight.

Afterward, you will attend the briefing session, where our guides and staff will explain the route, accommodations, history, etc., of the region. This pre-trip meeting gives you a general idea of what your Everest Three High Passes Trek will be like. In the evening, you will join fellow trekkers for the welcome dinner to enjoy the freshness and beauty of Nepalese food and culture in an authentic Nepalese restaurant.

    Kathmandu is the cultural hub of Nepal, where you can feel the raw richness of history, culture, tradition, and religion. To reflect such richness, UNESCO has enlisted many landmarks as world heritage sites. So today will be your sightseeing day in Kathmandu. You will follow our guide's instructions and make your way to Swayambhunath temple. This monkey temple is famous for its religious intermingling and an incredible view of Kathmandu Valley from the top of the hill. Then you can visit Boudhanath Stupa. The Buddhist heart-calming song, along with the fragrance of incense, will soothe your soul, body, and mind.

    Afterward, you can go to the Pashupatinath temple to feel the magnetic power and devotion towards Lord Shiva. It's time to witness some amazing architecture of ancient Nepal. Basantapur Durbar Square, embellished with the splendor of art and craft, will capture your heart. After spending half of the day strolling in Kathmandu City, you will get back to your hotel rooms to prepare for your more than two-week Everest Three High Passes Trek.

      Lukla Elevation: 2,840m/9,318ft

      Phakding Elevation: 2,610m/8,563ft

      Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

      Embarking on your Everest Three High Passes Trek with a thrilling 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is already an adventurous start. Soaring parallel to mountains, you will land on a steep mountainous short runaway in Lukla. This place is the beginning point for most of the treks of the Khumbu region, and the Everest Three High Passes Trek is no exception. After taking a short break in Lukla, you will finally walk on the well-maintained trails to reach Phakding.

      Heading north from Lukla, you will have to undulate several villages like Chaurikharka and Ghat to arrive at Phakding finally. On the path, you will enjoy many short suspension bridges, which will make your trek more fun. Likewise, you can traverse through the greenery landscapes and witness how the snow-capped mountains are peeking at you from a distance. As you approach the moderate-sized village of Phakding, the beautiful view of the Dudh Koshi River will start to accompany you. Crossing the river a few more times, you will finally reach Phakding.

        Phakding Elevation: 2,610m/8,563ft

        Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440m/11,285ft

        Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

        Continuing your Everest Three High Passes Trek, you will head towards Namche Bazaar today. Moving alongside the swiftly flowing Dudh Koshi River, you will take a path directing you to Monjo. Walking past the dense forest, you will enter the area of Sagarmatha National Park. Once you get your permits registered at the checkpost, you will continue to walk deep into the forest. As you ascend the route encompassing diverse flora and fauna, you will have a spellbinding first view of Mt. Everest.

        After trekking for a few hours, you will approach the swaying Hillary Bridge decorated with prayer flags. Stopping at the bridge above the white Dudh Koshi River with snowy peaks lining the horizon is truly a photo-worthy moment. Walking a few more miles, you will enter the hustling and bustling Sherpa hub town, Namche Bazaar. To replenish the energy for tomorrow's trek, you will stay overnight at a tea house.

          Waking up at this beautiful high settlement area, carved on the side of the mountain is truly magical. Since you have ascended to a significant altitude, you will spend today acclimatizing before heading higher. So, after having a hearty breakfast, you will go for short hikes to cover other side highlights of the Khumbu region.

          You can hike to Everest View Hotel, from where you will be bestowed by the majestic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Khumbila etc. The visit to Khumjung and Khude village can give you insights into the lifestyle of the high Himalayas. You can visit Khumjung Monastery, where it is believed that Yeti is kept in a casket. Furthermore, Hillary School, Syangboche Airstrip, Kunde Hospital, etc., can be other highlights that you want to explore.

            Namche Bazaar Elevation: 3,440m/11,285ft

            Thame Elevation: 3,800m/12,467ft

            Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

            Today, you will have to make your way to Thame, lying at the end of Khumbu Valley. Detaching from the main route of the Everest base camp trek, you will walk on the bank of the Bhote Koshi River, followed by the beautiful forest of pine and rhododendrons. Passing the mud-plastered stupa at Phurte, you will come across Thamo. Crossing Thamo, you will have to take a steep downhill path leading to the Khumbu Hydroelectric Plant. Walking a few more miles from there will finally take you to Thame.

            This place is known for its mountaineers, including Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, who successfully summited Mt. Everest; Apa Sherpa, who has a record of climbing Everest 21 times; and Kami Rita Sherpa, who holds the record for scaling the mountain 28 times.

              Thame Elevation: 3,800m/12,467ft

              Marulung Elevation: 4,137m

              Trek Duration: 5 hrs

              Diving deeper into the wilderness of the Himalayas, you will move towards Marulung today. Leaving behind Thame, you will take downhill to Thametang village. From there, you will take the wide path that ascends uphill alongside the river. Passing the village of Hungmo, you will arrive at Tarangar. Transversing the barren lands and beautifully decorated stone house, you will finally reach Marulung, situated on the east bank of the Bhote Koshi River.

                Marulung Elevation: 4,137m

                Lungden Elevation: 4,380m/14,370ft

                Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

                Leaving the village of Marulung, you will continue to take the uphill route. Passing the narrow valley with boulders and stone, you will find yourself surrounded by the glistening Kongde Peak. Walking gradually on the steep ascent towards the final stretch of the trek, you will arrive at Lungden. Since today's trek will be comparatively short, you will have spare time in the afternoon. So, you can hike to Cho Relmo Lake and explore the Nakpa Valley.

                  Lungden Elevation: 4,380m/14,370ft

                  Gokyo Valley Elevation: 4,790m/15,715ft

                  Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

                  Today is a big day in your Everest Three High Passes Trek. You will overcome one of the adventurous hurdles of the entire trek by making your way to Gokyo Valley crossing Renjo La Pass. Heading early in the morning, you will take the grassy zigzag route. After that, you will make a steep uphill climb that can be strenuous. So make sure you walk at your own pace. As you are approaching the pass, you will find yourself amidst the rocky mountains with no any vegetation and craters.

                  After pushing yourself to reach the top of the Renjo La Pass, you will witness fluttering prayer flags, adding vibrant color to the barren rocks. The panoramic views of Rolwaling Range, Everest, Makalu, Gyachung Kang, and other surrounding peaks will offer you a sense of accomplishment and completion.

                  Now, it's time to descend towards the Gokyo Valley. Walking on the trails with boulders and stones, you will come across a beautiful valley sitting at the bank of Third Gokyo Lake.

                    Gokyo Valley Elevation: 4,790m/15,715ft

                    Thagnag Elevation: 4,680m/15,354ft

                    Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

                    The beautiful view of emerald Gokyo Lake surrounded by snow-clad mountains is truly a feast to the eyes. With the determination to explore more of this beautiful high-settlement area, you will hike to Gokyo Ri in the morning.

                    After taking the steep route of this hill, you will be rewarded by the awe-inspiring views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and other surrounding peaks. Descending from Gokyo Ri, you will have a fulfilling meal by immersing in the beauty of this sacred place. Then, you will start your trek towards Thagnag.

                    You will follow the trails meandering along the Ngozumpa Glacier. Walking the undulating trails with ups and downs alongside cairns marking the way, you will arrive at the serene setting of Thagnag Village.

                      Thagnag Elevation: 4,680m/15,354ft

                      Dzongla Elevation: 4,830m/15,879ft

                      Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

                      A strenuous and challenging trek awaits you today. You will face the challenge of crossing the second pass i.e. Cho La Pass out of Everest Three passes. Leaving the tranquil environment of Thagnag early in the morning, you will move towards the saddle of Cho La Pass. An early start is essential to avoid the strong winds that will blow as the day progresses in the formidable mountain pass.

                      To reach the top of Cho La Pass, you will ascend an uphill full of boulders and scree. It is not an easy task, but once you make it to the top, you will forget all the hardships of the trek. The jaw-dropping views of Cho La Lake and Mt. Cholatse, along with the valley below, make your non-technical ascent of Cho La Pass more rewarding.

                      Heading down from the pass, you will finally arrive at Dzongla.

                        Dzongla Elevation: 4,830m/15,879ft

                        Lobuche Elevation: 4,910m/16,109ft

                        Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

                        Recovering from yesterday's intense hike with some rest at Dzongla, you will approach an easy trek to Lobuche today. Following the marked trails alongside Chola Lake, you will make your way towards Khumbu Valley. Transversing the undulating trails beside Khumbu Glacier, you will reach Lobuche.

                          Lobuche Elevation: 4,910m/16,109ft

                          Gorakshep Elevation: 5,140m/16,864ft

                          Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

                          Today is another exciting day in your Everest Three High Passes Trek that will increase your serotonin level. In the first leg of the day, you will elevate a significant altitude from Lobuche to Gorakshep. Continuing your hike for the day, you will walk on the lateral glacial moraine of Khumbu Glacier surrounded by snowy barren landscapes.

                          After making a steep ascent alongside the jagged and snow-covered walls and faces of the mighty mountains, you will finally arrive at the Everest Base Camp, where the stone carving testifies to your milestone. Reaching this amazing feat truly shows your determination, perseverance, and hard work. Now, you can celebrate the moment by inhaling the fresh air with the glorious views of Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks. Capturing the moment, you will descend back to Gorakshep in high spirits.

                            Gorakshep Elevation: 5,140m/16,864ft

                            Lobuche Elevation: 4,910m/16,109ft

                            Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

                            The Everest Three High Passes Trek is incomplete without catching the magnificent sunrise view from the high vantage point of Kalapatthar. So, you will start your early morning hike before dawn. As you are making your way to this vantage point, the light yellow beam of sunlight will peek over the rugged mountains which will increase your anticipation for the sunrise.

                            When the sun rises, the yellow-orange-reddish lights slowly falling on the glistening snow of mountains against the beautiful sky will evoke all your senses of awe and wonder. Soaking in these magical silhouettes of illuminating mountains is worth all the wait. Now, you will descend from this rugged hill and retrace your path back to Lobuche.

                              Lobuche Elevation: 4,910m/16,109ft

                              Dingboche Elevation: 4,410m/14,469ft

                              Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

                              Today, you will cross the last pass among all three passes. So, after having some breakfast and packing some for the way, you will hit the trail. By ascending the glacial moraine surrounded by stark and bare landscapes, you will head toward the top of Kongma La Pass. It is considered the most difficult among all three passes, so you have to carefully step on the path full of boulders and loose rocks.

                              Reaching the top of the formidable mountain pass, you will be rewarded with incredible views of Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, Kongma La, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse Shar. You will come across frozen lakes and waterfalls while descending the pass. Following the well-defined path down the mountainside, you will enter the Imja Valley and walk a few more miles to reach Chukkung. Savoring the views of Island Peak and Lhotse, you will walk downhill and head southeast to reach Dingboche. Overnight stay at Dingboche after a tiring trek.

                                Dingboche Elevation: 4,410m/14,469ft

                                Kyanjinma Elevation: 3630 m

                                Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

                                Today's trek will be comparatively easy as you will walk downhill most of the time. Trekking with the dominating view of Lhotse, you will make your way toward Pangboche. This place gives you a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the peace and beauty of Buddhism by visiting ancient Pangboche Gompa.

                                Crossing the Imja River and walking steeply down, you will reach another Buddhist significance village, Tengboche. Feeling the sacred vibe from Tengboche, you will walk for a few more miles to arrive at Kyanjinma.

                                  Kyanjinma Elevation: 3630 m

                                  Monjo Elevation: 2860 m

                                  Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

                                  You will retrace your path back to Namche Bazaar following the natural direction shown by the dominated views of Ama Dablam. You can stop by cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and souvenir shops to take a break from the alpine views. Further continuing the trek, you will pass the pine and rhododendron forest, connecting you to several suspension bridges. Following the path alongside the white Dudh Koshi River, you will arrive at your overnight destination, Monjo.

                                    Monjo Elevation: 2860 m

                                    Lukla Elevation: 2,840m/9,318ft

                                    Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

                                    Today will be your last day on the trails of the Everest Three High Passes Trek. Exploring the familiar sights that you have seen during your early days of the trek, you will make your way to Lukla, passing Phakding, Ghat, and Chaurikarka Village.

                                      Lukla Elevation: 2,840m/9,318ft

                                      Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400m/4,593ft

                                      Flight Duration: 35 minutes

                                      Bidding farewell to the Himalayas and high settlement areas, you will take a picturesque flight over Eastern Nepal to reach Kathmandu. You will be transferred to your hotel room. If you have any spare time left, it is for your self activities in the Kathmandu city.

                                        Congratulations you have completed an amazing adventure of the Everest Three High Passes Trek. Collecting all the memories and accomplishments in a memory box, you will depart from Nepal towards your home country. We wish you a safe journey and hope to be your companion in your other adventures in Nepal too.

                                          What's Included
                                          • Airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
                                          • Three nights standard Hotel in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis with B.B 
                                          • all domestic flight Kathmandu Lukla Kathmandu 
                                          • Government license holder guide 
                                          • Helpful porter with proper equipments (1 porter for 2 people)
                                          • Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for guide and porters
                                          • Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek on twin sharing basis 
                                          • Duffel bag for packing your things for the trek 
                                          • Local Entrance fee  for entering to the khumbu valley 
                                          • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
                                          • Government taxes and official expenses.
                                          What's not Included
                                          • All food pay your self  during the trek  
                                          • Flight to Kathmandu, Nepal
                                          • Tips for porters ($90-120) and guides ($100-150)
                                          • Nepal Visa ($50)
                                          • Insurance (must include emergency evacuation by helicopter, check worldnomads.com
                                          • Food and drinks ($20-30 per day)
                                          • In some places: hot water, wifi, battery charging - $2-5
                                          • Drinking water, price depends on altitude (linear regression) 

                                          Departure Dates

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                                          Trip DateOct 19, 2024 - Nov 07, 2024
                                          PriceUS$1370
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                                          Trip DateOct 21, 2024 - Nov 09, 2024
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                                          Trip DateOct 23, 2024 - Nov 11, 2024
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                                          Trip DateOct 25, 2024 - Nov 13, 2024
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                                          Trip DateOct 27, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024
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                                          Trip DateOct 29, 2024 - Nov 17, 2024
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                                          Trip DateOct 31, 2024 - Nov 19, 2024
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                                          Useful Information

                                          Trek Grade

                                          Everest Three High Passes Trek Grade

                                          The Everest Three High Passes Trek is considered a challenging trek, with the trail encompassing three passes of the Khumbu region- Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Kongma La Pass. Traversing the Renjo La Pass with steep ascent and descent tests the skill and endurance of trekkers. Likewise, the glaciated Cho la pass at 5420 m requires trekkers to make their way through potential icy sections and crevasses. Furthermore, Kongma La Pass, which is considered a bit more difficult than other passes, requires trekkers to traverse through moraines and rocky terrain with winding, steep ascents and descents.

                                          Altitudes rising more than 5000m bring their own challenges, including altitude-related risks and possibilities. Furthermore, covering a significant distance of 133 km over a period of 16 to 20 days requires a good level of physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and a mindset for long days of walking that span from 6 to 8 hours per day. Despite all the difficulties and challenges, this adventurous trek offers you an unforgettable Himalayan experience with awe-inspiring moments at every step.

                                          Best Season for the Everest Three High Passes Trek

                                          Best Season for the Everest Three High Passes Trek

                                          Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered favorable seasons for the Everest Three High Passes Trek. The weather warming up with dormancy of active flora and fauna during spring makes it one of the best seasons for the trek. Likewise, the pleasant weather, along with festival delights in the Khumbu region during autumn, adorn the perfect trekking atmosphere.

                                          The clear blue skies with unobstructed views of the mountains, along with low possibilities of precipitation and snowfall, bring out the best of the Everest Three High Passes Trek. However, if you plan your trek in the monsoon or winter season, then you will have to go through weather-related difficulties to complete the trek. The heavy downpour during monsoon season increases the chances of floods and landslides. Likewise, the frozen path, along with icy sections during winter, can make the crossing of passes nearly impossible. So, it is very important to plan your trek by considering the weather and climate of the Everest region.

                                          Is Everest Three High Passes Trek Suitable For Me?

                                          Is Everest Three High Passes Trek Suitable For Me

                                          After knowing about the difficulties and challenges you may face during the trek, you may be in a dilemma if this trek is suitable for you or not. If you have prior high-altitude trekking experience with a good level of physical and mental fitness, then you are all set for the trek. In case you have health issues regarding heart, lungs, joints, etc then it is better to consult with your doctor first.

                                          While choosing the package, make sure you opt for the package with acclimatization days. This will give your body enough time to adapt to lower oxygen levels, and you can avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to take some physical training 4 to 6 weeks before trekking to be fully prepared for the trek. Along with physical fitness, mental stability during the trek is a must. So, you must set a mindset of adaptability and long hours of walking in unfamiliar places.

                                          Guides and Porters

                                          Having guides and porters by your side during the trek enhances your experience to a great extent. Guides will help you to navigate the routes along with providing you with necessary information on the history, culture, and tradition of the region. Likewise, they will act as a mediator between you and the locals, which will somewhat reduce the communication barrier.

                                          Likewise, you are not used to carrying heavy weight and walking back and forth in the rugged landscapes. So, a porter will carry the luggage of two trekkers, which will lift the burden of luggage from your back, and you can enjoy the trek to the fullest.

                                          Insurance

                                          Before walking on the trails of Everest High Passes, it is very important to take travel insurance. These insurance policies will act as a medium to reduce your financial burden and shift the risk to the insurer. However, it is necessary to carry the policy that covers all your medical expenses, hospital bills, evacuation expenses, and air ambulance. It is recommended to add the clause of cancellation to your policy which will make your plan flexible.

                                          How to Cope with Altitude Sickness?

                                          How to Cope with Altitude Sickness

                                          You will spend most days of the trek above 3000 m, so it is natural to have the pathological effect of altitude sickness. However, to avoid AMS, your body must acclimatize properly. You will need to go on side hikes and adapt your body to the lower oxygen level. Do not consume hard drinks and high consumption of tea and coffee, since it will hinder your acclimatization process.

                                          Likewise, you need to take short breaks to catch your breath during the trek. Make sure you carry basic medications for altitude sickness to reduce its effect. Moreover, you will need to take the trek slowly at your pace and intake at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily. Having nutritious meals along with good sleep also helps you to avoid altitude sickness.

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                                          Everest Three High Passes Trek FAQs

                                          • Usually, there are no limitations for the trek but age below 16 and above 7 are not recommended for the Everest Three High Passes trek.

                                          • You will need to acquire a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit to complete the Everest Three High Passes trek.

                                          • Usually, trekkers opt for two routes-anticlockwise routes i.e.crossing Kongma La Pass, Cho la Pass, and finally, Renjo La Pass, or a clockwise route, Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Kongma La Pass to cover all three passes.

                                          • Despite covering the unbeaten path of the Khumbu region, you can find accommodations in the teahouses and lodges during the Everest Three High Passes trek.

                                          • You can access electricity and Wi-Fi in teahouses, but you will need to pay an extra fee for those services.

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