The Everest Three High Passes Trek is widely regarded as one of the most exhilarating and demanding treks in the world. This trek offers a thrilling combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and panoramic beauty, making it a dream journey for seasoned trekkers and mountaineering enthusiasts. Unlike the traditional Everest Base Camp Trek, this route takes adventurers beyond the ordinary paths, leading them across three formidable high-altitude passes: Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Pass. The trek provides unrivaled views of the towering peaks of the Himalayas, including the famous Mount Everest, as well as Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other giants. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the details, helping you prepare for the Everest High Pass Trek, and ensuring it is a safe, successful, and unforgettable experience.
For those with a passion for trekking and a desire to challenge themselves, the Everest Three High Passes Trek stands out as a remarkable choice. The journey encompasses not only the classic route to Everest Base Camp, but also introduces trekkers to lesser-known, more remote regions of the Khumbu Valley, adding a unique sense of exploration to the adventure. This route is ideal for trekkers who crave a more physically demanding trek while relishing the opportunity to delve deep into the wilderness of the Himalayas.
One of the most appealing aspects of this trek is that it takes you far beyond the bustling trails often crowded with tourists. The Three Passes Trek allows for deeper immersion in the serene landscapes and unspoiled vistas, offering moments of peace, solitude, and connection to nature. While the trek is physically demanding due to its high-altitude passes and long distances, it is also highly rewarding, offering incredible views of the entire Khumbu range, encounters with diverse wildlife, and insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Sherpa people. If you’re an experienced trekker seeking something extraordinary, this trek is designed for you.
The three high passes that define this trek are no mere footpaths. These formidable passes are high-altitude challenges that test even the most seasoned trekkers. Each pass brings its own unique set of difficulties—steep ascents, rocky terrain, glacier crossings—but also rewards those who traverse them with unparalleled views and a deep sense of accomplishment. Understanding each pass in detail is key to appreciating the rigors of the journey and preparing adequately.
At an imposing height of 5,535 meters, Kongma La Pass is the highest and arguably the most demanding of the three. The pass connects Chhukhung in the Imja Valley with Lobuche in the Khumbu Valley. Its remote location ensures that fewer trekkers cross this pass, making it a secluded and tranquil experience. The ascent is long and arduous, involving steep climbs and difficult terrain strewn with loose rocks and snow. Upon reaching the summit of Kongma La, trekkers are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Lhotse, and the southern face of Mount Everest. The sense of remoteness here is profound, giving trekkers an overwhelming feeling of being in the heart of the Himalayas.
The descent from Kongma La Pass takes you toward Lobuche, passing through glacial moraines and small alpine lakes. The trail here requires caution, as the path can be slippery, especially in snowy conditions. Trekkers need to be well-acclimatized and prepared for harsh weather, which can change rapidly at such
high altitudes.
The Cho La Pass is the second major pass on this trek, sitting at an altitude of 5,420 meters. It links the famous Gokyo Valley with the Khumbu Valley, making it a key part of the Three Passes Trek. While not as high as Kongma La, Cho La is still incredibly challenging, especially during the winter months when the pass is often covered in ice and snow. Trekkers may need to use crampons and an ice axe to navigate the steep, icy slopes safely. The route also involves crossing a glacier, where the terrain can be treacherous due to deep crevasses and shifting ice.
From the top of Cho La Pass, the views are absolutely stunning. You can see Cholatse and Lobuche East rising in the foreground, with the larger peaks of Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori looming beyond. The descent toward Dragnag is equally dramatic, as the landscape shifts from glacial to alpine, offering trekkers a constantly changing environment. Despite the difficulty of the Cho La Pass, its breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
The third and final pass, Renjo La, at 5,340 meters, is often considered the most beautiful of the three. Its unique positioning offers some of the most expansive views of the trek. From the summit of Renjo La, trekkers are greeted with sweeping panoramas that include Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The descent from the pass into the Gokyo Valley brings you past the famous Gokyo Lakes, whose emerald-green waters shimmer against the backdrop of snowy peaks.
The Gokyo Lakes region is a highlight of the trek and a peaceful retreat compared to the busier Everest Base Camp trail. The turquoise waters of the lakes are fed by glaciers, and their beauty is enhanced by the reflection of the surrounding mountains. The descent from Renjo La into this valley is steep and can be demanding, especially in snowy conditions, but the rewards are unparalleled.
While the high passes are the defining features of this trek, the journey through the Khumbu region is equally captivating. The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes you through villages that have preserved their traditional Sherpa culture for centuries. These villages are not only places to rest and resupply, but they also provide a rich cultural experience that enhances the overall trek.
The trek begins in Lukla and passes through the famous Namche Bazaar, the largest village in the Khumbu region. Known as the gateway to Everest, Namche Bazaar is the hub of trade, culture, and trekking activities. It offers trekkers a chance to acclimatize, interact with locals, and learn about the history and traditions of the Sherpa people.
As you trek further into the Khumbu Valley, you will pass through villages such as Thame, Phakding, Tengboche, and Dingboche, each offering unique insights into local life. The iconic Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important spiritual centers in the region, provides trekkers with an opportunity to witness the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions of the Sherpa community. Prayer flags, mani stones, and chortens dot the landscape, creating a spiritual ambiance that enriches the trekking experience.
Namche Bazaar is a crucial stop on the Everest Three High Passes Trek. Perched on the side of a mountain, it offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including early glimpses of Mount Everest. It is also an essential acclimatization point due to its altitude of 3,440 meters. Trekkers typically spend a day or two here to adjust to the thinning air while exploring nearby trails to Everest View Hotel or Syangboche Airstrip, both of which provide breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.
Namche is more than just a stopover; it’s a bustling town with vibrant markets, bakeries, shops selling trekking gear, and a variety of lodges and teahouses. The town is a fusion of ancient Sherpa culture and modern amenities, making it an interesting place to explore before heading further into the remote mountains.
The Gokyo Valley is one of the most serene and picturesque areas of the trek. The valley is home to the series of stunning Gokyo Lakes, which are among the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Their turquoise waters are set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks, creating a picture-perfect landscape that feels like a hidden gem in the heart of the Himalayas. Trekking through the Gokyo Valley not only offers respite from the more challenging sections of the trek but also provides trekkers with a unique sense of tranquility and solitude. A highlight for many trekkers is the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks, including Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. The sunrise from Gokyo Ri is a magical experience, with the sun casting golden hues on the world’s tallest mountains.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, you’ll be immediately immersed in a vibrant blend of culture, history, and modernity. Kathmandu is a bustling metropolis nestled in a valley rich with cultural landmarks such as the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and the ancient Durbar Square. As you take your first steps on this unforgettable journey, you can explore the bustling streets, enjoy the local cuisine, and take in the sights and sounds of this eclectic city. The rest of the day is spent preparing for the trek ahead, ensuring all your gear is in order and that you’re ready for the adventure.
After an early breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic flight to Lukla, one of the world’s most famous and adventurous airports. The flight itself offers stunning views of the Himalayan range and is an exciting precursor to the trek. Upon landing in Lukla (2,840 m), the trek officially begins. The first day’s walk is relatively easy, descending towards the village of Phakding. The trail meanders through charming Sherpa villages, dense pine forests, and across swinging suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. It’s a gentle introduction to the terrain, offering trekkers their first glimpses of the soaring peaks.
Leaving Phakding, the trail continues along the Dudh Koshi River, with gradual ascents through forests of rhododendron and magnolia. Trekkers pass through villages like Monjo before reaching the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After crossing multiple suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge, the path begins its steep ascent toward Namche Bazaar, the heart of the Khumbu region. The final stretch is challenging but incredibly rewarding as you climb higher, with the snow-capped peaks of Thamserku and Kongde Ri guiding your way. Namche Bazaar, a vibrant hub of trekking activity, greets you with breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas.
Acclimatization is critical for a successful trek, and Namche Bazaar is the perfect place to rest and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. This day is spent exploring the area and taking short hikes to higher elevations, such as the Everest View Hotel or Syangboche Airstrip. These hikes not only offer spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, but they also help with the acclimatization process by following the principle of “climb high, sleep low”. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the bustling markets of Namche, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, and enjoy the cafes and bakeries that offer a surprising level of comfort at this altitude.
The trail from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche offers one of the most beautiful trekking experiences in the Everest region. The route begins with a relatively flat section, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. You’ll trek through alpine forests, spotting wildlife such as musk deer and the elusive Himalayan monal (the national bird of Nepal). After descending to the village of Phunki Thenga and crossing another suspension bridge, the trail steeply ascends to Tengboche. At the top, you’ll be greeted by the impressive Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region, surrounded by a breathtaking mountain panorama. Tengboche is a spiritual center, and witnessing a Buddhist ceremony here can be a moving experience.
Leaving the peaceful atmosphere of Tengboche, the trail descends through a forest before crossing the Imja Khola River. You’ll pass the small settlement of Pangboche, the highest year-round settlement in the valley, and continue towards Dingboche, which sits in a broad valley beneath the towering peaks of Ama Dablam and Island Peak. The landscape begins to change as the trail climbs, with the lush forests giving way to a more rugged and barren terrain as you approach higher altitudes. Dingboche is a picturesque village known for its stone-walled fields, used to protect crops from the strong Himalayan winds. The village provides a peaceful setting to rest and acclimatize further.
Another essential acclimatization day is spent in Dingboche. A popular hike for acclimatization is to the Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m), which offers stunning views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Cholatse. This is a non-technical climb that helps your body adjust to the altitude while providing an exhilarating experience. The day can also be spent exploring the village and enjoying the serene beauty of the Imja Valley. Dingboche is an important stop on the trek, and the slower pace of this day allows trekkers to fully appreciate the stark beauty of the high Himalayas.
One of the most challenging days of the trek, the journey from Dingboche to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass is both physically demanding and rewarding. The climb to Kongma La involves a steep ascent over rocky terrain, with the altitude and rugged path making progress slow but steady. Upon reaching the summit of Kongma La, trekkers are greeted with stunning views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and the surrounding peaks. The descent toward Lobuche is equally challenging, with the trail passing glacial moraines and alpine lakes. Lobuche is a small settlement, often used as a base for the final approach to Everest Base Camp.
The trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep is a gradual ascent, following the glacial paths of the Khumbu Glacier. As you approach Gorakshep, the terrain becomes more rugged, with views of Nuptse, Pumori, and other towering peaks dominating the skyline. After arriving in Gorakshep, you’ll continue to the iconic viewpoint of Kala Patthar. At an altitude of 5,545 meters, Kala Patthar offers panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding peaks. This is the highest point on the trek for most, and the sunset or sunrise views from here are nothing short of spectacular. Afterward, you’ll return to Gorakshep for the night.
The morning begins with a trek to the legendary Everest Base Camp (EBC). The trail winds along the Khumbu Glacier, with the final approach offering up-close views of the Khumbu Icefall, one of the most dangerous sections of the Everest ascent. While you can’t climb the mountain itself, standing at the base of the world’s tallest peak is a moment of immense achievement. After visiting EBC, you’ll descend back to Gorakshep and continue the trek toward Dzongla, a small settlement that serves as the base for crossing Cho La Pass. The route to Dzongla is scenic, with the landscape becoming increasingly remote and rugged.
Today’s trek involves crossing the formidable Cho La Pass, one of the most challenging sections of the trek. The ascent is steep and involves some scrambling over rocks and boulders, while the descent can be icy and requires careful navigation. Once at the top of the pass, you’re rewarded with spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Lobuche East. The descent leads to the turquoise waters of Gokyo Lakes, nestled in the Gokyo Valley. This pristine area, with its tranquil lakes and panoramic views of Cho Oyu, provides a perfect contrast to the rugged terrain of the passes.
After the demanding journey across Cho La Pass, a rest day in Gokyo is well- deserved. Many trekkers choose to climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This hike is challenging but rewarding, offering some of the best panoramic views in the region. Alternatively, you can
spend the day relaxing by the lakes, exploring the valley, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of this remote corner of the Himalayas.
The final pass of the trek, Renjo La, is crossed today. The trail up to Renjo La is steep but well-marked, and the views from the top are nothing short of incredible. You’ll have a full panorama of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, as well as the stunning Gokyo Lakes far below. The descent from Renjo La is gradual and passes through alpine meadows and yak pastures. The trail eventually leads to the small village of Marlung, a peaceful spot on the other side of the pass.
The trek today takes you back toward civilization as you descend through traditional Sherpa villages such as Thame and Phurte. The trail follows the Bhote Koshi River, and you’ll pass numerous prayer wheels and chortens along the way. As you approach Namche Bazaar, the familiar sights of bustling shops and trekkers greet you, providing a sense of accomplishment as you reflect on the incredible journey you’ve completed so far.
The final trekking day retraces your steps back to Lukla. The descent is long but relatively easy as you walk along the familiar path, crossing suspension bridges and passing through the forests and villages of the Khumbu Valley. Upon reaching Lukla, there’s a chance to celebrate the completion of the trek with fellow trekkers and your guides. It’s a time to reflect on the incredible journey, the challenges overcome, and the memories made in the heart of the Himalayas.
A short flight back to Kathmandu brings you back to the bustling city after your remote Himalayan adventure. Upon arrival, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax or explore more of Kathmandu’s rich cultural heritage. Many trekkers take this time to visit additional landmarks or purchase souvenirs from the local markets.
After completing the trek, it’s time to say goodbye to Nepal. Depending on your flight time, you can either relax in Kathmandu or continue exploring the city before heading to the airport for your departure. This marks the end of your incredible journey through the Everest Three High Passes Trek, a once-in-a- lifetime experience filled with breathtaking views, challenging ascents, and unforgettable moments in the world’s highest mountain range.
Given the high altitudes involved in the Three High Passes Trek, altitudemsickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a significant concern. Trekkers will be crossing passes that are over 5,000 meters, and proper acclimatization is crucial for preventing serious health issues. AMS can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level or experience, and its symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, AMS can lead to life-threatening conditions such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).
To mitigate the risk of altitude sickness, it’s essential to take acclimatization seriously. The Three High Passes Trek is designed with rest days at criticalpoints like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo, allowing the body time to adjust to the altitude. Trekkers should also follow the principle of “climb high, sleep low” meaning that after reaching high points during the day, you descend to sleep at lower altitudes. Drinking plenty of water, eating well, and trekking at a slow, steady pace are also key factors in avoiding AMS.
Trekking in the Everest region requires several permits, all of which are necessary to legally enter and explore the area. The main permits include:
1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit is mandatory for anyone entering the Sagarmatha National Park, where the majority of the trek takes place. It can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the park entrance in Monjo.
2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: Issued by the local government, this permit is necessary for trekkers and can be easily obtained in Lukla.
3. TIMS Card (Trekker’s Information Management System): Though no longer required for the Everest region, having a TIMS Card is advisable for safety reasons, especially if you’re trekking without a guide.
The ideal seasons for the Everest Three High Passes Trek are during the pre- monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) periods. The best months are from March to May and September to November, when the weather is typically clear and stable, offering excellent visibility of the mountains. During these months, the temperatures are moderate during the day, and the skies are often clear, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
While it is possible to trek during the winter, from December to February, the passes are often covered in deep snow, making them extremely difficult and dangerous to cross. Similarly, trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is not advisable, as heavy rains can make the trails slippery and prone to landslides, and the cloud cover often obscures the mountain views.
Preparing for the Three High Passes Trek requires careful consideration of your gear. The trek spans a wide range of altitudes and weather conditions, so it’s essential to pack wisely. Here’s a comprehensive packing list:
While it is possible to complete the Everest Three High Passes Trek independently, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended for several reasons. A local guide provides invaluable knowledge about the region, including trail conditions, weather patterns, and cultural insights. Guides are also trained in first aid and can assist in case of altitude sickness or other emergencies.
Porters, on the other hand, can carry the bulk of your gear, allowing you to focus on the trek without the added burden of a heavy backpack. Hiring a porter is also a great way to contribute to the local economy, as many Sherpas and Nepali workers rely on trekking tourism for their livelihoods.
The best time for the Everest Three High Passes Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) from March to May and post-monsoon (autumn) from September to November. These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, ensuring optimal trekking conditions and stunning mountain views.
Trekking during the monsoon or winter is challenging due to heavy rain or snow.
While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended. A guide provides valuable local knowledge, navigation skills, and emergency assistance, while a porter helps carry your heavy gear, allowing you to trek more comfortably. Additionally, employing local staff supports the local economy and enhances your trekking experience.
The Three High Passes Trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude, steep ascents, and long days of trekking. It involves crossing three high passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—each requiring physical endurance and mental resilience. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness and
experience in high-altitude trekking.
To trek in the Everest region, you need several permits: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, and a TIMS Card (though it’s not mandatory for the Everest region). These permits ensure legal entry into the trekking areas and support park conservation efforts.
Preventing altitude sickness involves gradual acclimatization, proper hydration, and a steady trekking pace. Follow the principle of “climb high, sleep low” by making acclimatization hikes during rest days. Staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and taking prescribed medication (if necessary) can also help mitigate the risk of altitude sickness.
Essential items include waterproof hiking boots, insulating layers (fleece or down jacket), a four-season sleeping bag, trekking poles, crampons, and a first aid kit. Also, pack water purification tablets, sunglasses, sunblock, and personal medications. Prepare for varying weather conditions and high-altitude
environments.
