
Everest Three High Passes Trek
Everest Three High Passes Trek 18 Days Trip overview
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a great combination of amazing views, demanding routes and a real Himalayan experience. Throughout the gorgeous and historic Khumbu region, this great circuit trek takes you over three very high and challenging passes - Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) - in total, an extraordinary trip through Nepal's loftiest landscapes by partnering with Destination Guru Tours & Treks, you will start your adventure at the famous Sherpa community of Namche Bazaar.
The path will take you through cattle-herding pastures of the yaks, glacier moraine areas, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. In attendance at the famous viewpoint at Kala Patthar (5,560m), you will get to see a sunrise panorama of Everest, then continue on to the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes. Also, you will be able to enjoy the silent gaze of the highest peaks in the world, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This trek just doesn't get you to the top of the mountain it rather circles the whole Khumbu region.
Joining this tour means that you are not only wandering along the famous route of the Everest Base Camp trail but experiencing the mountain in its natural and majestic form. Along with the excellent and knowledgeable local guides, the itinerary which ensures ample time for acclimatization and the warm teahouse accommodation, you can be confident that your trip will not only be safe but also unforgettable.
Everest Three High Passes Trek 18 Days Highlights
Spanning 18 unforgettable days, the Everest Three High Passes Trek is a complete circuit around the Khumbu area, crossing Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) each pass offering a different perspective of the raw, breathtaking high Himalayan world. After most trekkers turn around at Everest Base Camp, this path goes on higher, quieter, and deeper into the valleys which have been the sources of the Himalayas' greatest legend.
Prayer flags flutter over suspension bridges, solar-powered teahouses emit a warm glow at nightfall, and the locals still prepare the apple pie at 14,000 feet elevation. So, it is, in a way that the traditional Base Camp trail neither reveals nor even hints at.
These valleys literally changed the entire history of adventure. In fact, it was after Hillary and Tenzing reached the summit of Mount Everest back in 1953, that the Khumbu region became the very pulse of high-altitude exploration.
Nowadays, the Sherpa Rai Tamang, and Magar guides still follow the steps of their ancestors, welcoming people from all over the world to the vibrant mountain culture that is still alive and breathing.For us at Destination Guru Tours & Treks, this path is far from being a mere checklist of challenges - rather, it is a work of art that one should immerse themselves in. Each time we cross a glacier, every time we climb at daybreak, or even each time we share a cup of butter tea with a local villager, we are all part of a heritage that we feel very privileged to introduce you to.
Destination Guru Tours & Treks has prepared an exciting trip for you to the Himalayas of the Everest region. Here is a comprehensive outline of our Three Pass Trek 18-day package including all the details for you to plan your trip.You will be crossing three passes during this trek, namely Kongma-La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo-La Pass.
Kongma-La is a mountain pass and the highest of the three at an altitude of 5,535 meters above sea level. Being the highest one it is also the most challenging of the three and you will surely feel the pressure while climbing to this pass.
The second pass we will come across on this trekking route is the Cho La Pass, this pass links the Gokyo valley with the main Everest Base Camp trek. It is also the place where Thagnak and Dzongla, two villages of the Khumbu region, meet.
Since it is a center for several routes, it is the most frequented pass among the three. The final pass we need to cross on this trekking route is the Renjo La Pass which is the easiest of the three passes. Located at a height of 5360 meters above sea level, this is the only pass without any glacier on it.
Required Permits & Regulations
Everest Three High Passes Trek 18 Days Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft), Tribhuvan International Airport
Fly from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla (2,850m/9,350 ft) & trek to Phakding ( 2650 m/8562 ft )
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,285 ft)
Exploration & acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche Bazar to Thame (3,800m / 12,433ft)
Trek from Thame to Lungden (4,380m / 14,370ft)
Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft) and trek to Gokyo (4,790m / 15,715ft)
Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft) and explore the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes (around 5,000–5,100m / 16,404–16,732ft)
Trek from Gokyo to Thagnak (4,700m / 15,420ft)
Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft) and trek to Dzongla (4,830m / 15,846ft)
Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m / 16,309ft)
Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) via Gorak Shep (5,164m / 16,942ft)
Hike Kala Patthar (5,560m / 18,221ft) and return to Lobuche (4,910m / 16,109ft)
Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m / 18,160ft) and trek to Chhukung (4,730m / 15,518ft)
Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche (3,867m / 12,687ft)
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft)
Trek from Namche to Lukla (2,860m / 9,383ft)
Fly back to Kathmandu (1,350m)
Final departure from Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,429 ft)
Trip Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Domestic Airport picks up/Drop off transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two nights Kathmandu 3* level hotel twin sharing Hotel including breakfast.
- All necessary paperwork including Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) including a cup of tea/coffee during the trek.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodations throughout the trek.
- All necessary paper works Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit & Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees
- Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight including airport transfer. (High season flight to and from Lukla are operated from Ramechhap airport which is 4-5 hours east of Kathmandu)
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking, well trained, Government License holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful porters with proper equipment (1 porter carries two people's bagpacks- 10 kg each). with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation and insurance.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Exclusions
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding(other then your inclusion)
- Hot shower, Wifi and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Excess baggage of more than 10 kg for Lukla flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
Visual Briefings
Gallery of Everest Three High Passes Trek










Everest Three High Passes Trek 18 Days Trail map

Upcoming Departure Dates
No fixed departure dates available
Contact us for custom departure dates
Gear and packing list for Everest Three High Passes Trek
Head
Upper Body
Lower Body
Hands
Feet
Accessories
Toiletries
Everest Three High Passes Trek 18 Days Trip info
Itinerary Disclaimer
The Everest Three High Passes Trek itinerary is designed as a general guide for trekkers. Actual routes, schedules, and daily plans may change depending on weather conditions, trail status, and the pace of acclimatization. Crossing high passes such as Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La requires flexibility. Your guide may adjust the itinerary to ensure your safety, comfort, and optimal trekking experience, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Airport Pickup and Drop-off
For your convenience and safety, Destination Guru Tours & Treks provides airport pickup and drop-off services. A team member will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and transfer you to your designated hotel. This service is included in your trek package, allowing you to relax and begin your journey stress-free.
Packing List for the Trek
Proper gear is essential for a safe and comfortable trek. Here are recommended items for the Everest Three High Passes Trek:
Sturdy backpack with sufficient space for your belongings
Sleeping bag rated for high-altitude temperatures
Sleeping pad for added comfort
Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support
Insulating mid-layers and waterproof/windproof outer layers
Headlamp or torch with extra batteries
First-aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and personal medications
Map, GPS, or compass for emergency navigation
Pack according to your personal needs, trek duration, and comfort preferences to ensure an enjoyable journey.
Safety and Security
Your safety is our top priority. Destination Guru Tours & Treks provides comprehensive safety measures, including experienced guides, communication devices, and contingency plans. If you have any special requirements or concerns, inform our team in advance so we can ensure a safe and memorable trekking experience.
Accommodation
During the trek, you will stay in local tea houses and lodges, offering basic yet comfortable facilities. Most rooms are twin-sharing with warm blankets and shared bathrooms. At lower altitude villages like Namche Bazaar, Lukla, and Phakding, you will find Wi-Fi, hot showers, and dining areas. High-altitude lodges are simpler but provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere, enhancing your trekking experience.
Meals
Meals are served in tea houses along the trail. Typical options include:
Dal Bhat – rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles
Noodles, fried rice, omelettes, pancakes, and soups at higher altitudes
These meals are warm, nutritious, and energy-rich, providing sustenance for long days at high altitude.
Best Time to Trek
The ideal periods for the Everest Three High Passes Trek are:
Spring (March–May):
Moderate temperatures, clear trails, and panoramic mountain views
Blooming rhododendrons and vibrant landscapes
More trekkers on the trail, teahouses may be busier
Autumn (September–November):
Clear skies and stable weather, offering tranquil trekking
Cooler temperatures at high altitudes
Fewer trekkers, giving more space to explore
Avoid trekking during monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) due to landslides, heavy snowfall, and extreme cold.
Permits and Documents
You will need the following permits for the trek:
1. Sagarmatha National Park Permit
Required for most areas of the Everest region, including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, and the three high passes
Fees:
Foreign Trekkers: NPR 3,000 (~USD 30)
SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500
Nepali Citizens: NPR 100
2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
Mandatory local permit for trekking in the Khumbu region
Fees: USD 20–25 per person for foreign trekkers
Funds support local infrastructure and trail maintenance
Travel Insurance
High-altitude trekking involves risks; therefore, travel insurance is essential. Ensure your insurance covers:
High-altitude trekking
Emergency helicopter evacuation
Trip cancellations
Loss of personal belongings
Carry proof of insurance and inform your guide before the trek.
Challenges and Considerations
Altitude Sickness:
Common at high elevations above 4,000m
Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, shortness of breath
Prevention: proper acclimatization, hydration, balanced diet, steady pace, and notifying your guide if symptoms occur
Weather Conditions:
Mountain weather is unpredictable; check forecasts daily
Adjust trekking plans according to conditions for safety
Steep and Challenging Trails:
Trekking involves steep ascents, descents, and rough terrain
Requires good fitness, endurance, and preparation
Not recommended for beginners without prior high-altitude experience
Frequently asked questions and our answers for Everest Three High Passes Trek
Guest Reviews
No reviews yet for this trek.
Group Discounts
Best Value**Discounts are based on your group size. We do not mix groups.

