Everest Three Pass Trek - 18 Days

Everest Three High Passes Trekking 18 Days Itinerary with Trip Cost
Everest Three Pass Trek
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What to see & do
Specific information about Everest Three Pass Trek - 18 Days
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Duration18 Days
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Trip GradeFairly Strenuous
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Max Altitude5550M
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Starts atKathmandu
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Ends atKathmandu
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Travel StyleLodge to Lodge Trek
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Group Size8
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TransportationVehicles and Aeroplane
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Best SeasonMarch, April, May and Sept, Oct, Nov

Everest Three Pass Trek is the ultimate trekking experience in the Nepalese Himalayas. Taking you to 3 high-altitude mountain passes of the Khumbu region, along with Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Valley, and Gokyo Lakes, the Everest Three High Passes Trek showers you with the outstanding beauty of the region’s hidden gems. Explicitly designed for adventure seekers who want more than just a traditional trekking journey, this 18 days Everest 3 Pass Trek escorts you to a secluded area of the Everest region, where you can discover secret settlements, lovely valleys, high passes, confined gullies, stunning moraines, pristine lakes, crystal-clear mountains, and many more.

As the name implies, you will travel via the Khumbu region's three most difficult and high passes: Renjo La Pass (5345 m), Cho La Pass (5420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5540 m). It takes a lot of effort even for experienced trekkers to traverse these passes. So, it’s not for novice trekkers. On the other hand, the views you get to see from the top of them are breathtaking. The untouched beauty of the Khumbu region can be discovered through Everest Three Passes Trekking.

The famed high mountain people known as "the Sherpas," who live a traditional life, inhabit the untamed terrain of the high passes. The walk offers the opportunity to experience Sherpa culture, see Buddhist temples, and occasionally see uncommon animals including musk deer, Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, pheasants, and snow cocks. The pleasant flora and an exquisite site of endangered fauna of the Sagarmatha National Park make the trip even more exciting. Additionally, this area is thought to have been home to the mythical Yeti.

Additionally, this journey takes you to Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, two of the most well-known viewpoints in the Everest region. At 5545 meters above sea level, Kala Patthar is the trek's highest point. From the top of this viewpoint, you can see all of the mountains, including Mt. Everest, Pumori, Lingtren, Nuptse, and Changtse. Likewise, Gokyo Ri at 5357 meters presents a mindblowing view of turquoise blue lakes and snow-white mountain peaks. This Himalayan walk offers yet another view of the natural splendor, thanks to the Gokyo Valley and the Gokyo Lakes.

Outfitter Nepal has vast experience leading hikes in the Himalayas of Nepal. You can embark on the most exhilarating experience of your life with the help of our 18 days Everest Three Passes Trek package. Join us on one of the dates for our Everest Three Passes journey, or get in contact with us to create a personalized Everest itinerary that meets your unique requirements. We are open to customizing the trek as long as you book a private trip.

Enjoy this gorgeous, exhilarating trek knowing that our knowledgeable, experienced porters and guides will be there to help you at every step of the way. At Outfitter Nepal, we go above and beyond to make sure that your trekking dreams become a reality. We look forward to helping you make unforgettable holiday memories. Read along for more information on the Everest Three Passes Trek.

Best Features of the Everest Three High Pass Trek

  • Thrilling yet scenic mountain flight to and from Lukla
  • Exploring Namche Bazaar, the modern Himalayan Sherpa town
  • Visiting the Tengboche Monastery, the oldest and biggest in Khumbu
  • Reaching the Everest Base Camp at the foothill of Mt. Everest
  • Breathtaking views of Khumbu Ice Fall and Khumbu Glacier from EBC
  • Panoramic view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Amadablam, Thamserku, etc. from Kala Patthar
  • Crossing the 3 high mountain passes - Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La
  • Incredible vista of the Himalayan landscape from Gokyo Ri
  • Staying at Gokyo Valley, enjoying the pristine Gokyo Lakes
  • Learning about the rich historical culture of the Sherpa people

Is the Everest Three High Passes Trek right for me?

Not everyone would enjoy trekking via the three high passes in the Everest region. You will cross three difficult passes totaling more than 5,000 meters on this excursion. To complete this trek, you must be physically fit with good endurance. The trek is a rewarding experience with its enticing mountain views, panoramic views of the Himalayas, rich cultural traditions of the inhabitants, action-packed days, and starry nights. However, getting such benefits is not a simple feat. It requires strenuous hiking for three weeks in the high altitudes and tough terrain of the rocky Himalayas. 

Serious travelers looking for a challenging journey in Nepal's Everest region should only consider hiking three passes. This adventure lasts 18 days and you will need to walk for about five to six hours per day on this adventure. Regardless of its difficulties, the trek introduces you to the Sherpa native cultures, a simple way of living, stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and high passes. You will occasionally be surrounded by locals and other trekkers, but other times it will just be your team and the Himalayas staring at one another.

How can I prepare myself for the Everest Three Pass Trek?

It is really helpful to have done high-altitude hiking before to complete this trek successfully. Why? Because you'll be trekking for 5-7 hours every day for over 3 weeks in the chilly Himalayas, sometimes in the pitch-black before dawn and sometimes in the sweltering sun. No matter your level of endurance, there is no other adventure sport that can compare to the commitment required to hike in the isolated Himalayas with its many ups and downs. The hardest part of walking at high altitudes is the decreasing oxygen content of the thin Himalayan air. So you may gain some experience first by going on a shorter high-altitude walk, even up to 4,000 meters.

We realize not everyone has access to the Himalayas to go on multiple hiking journeys. So you can begin your preparation for the journey from your home. Start with cardiovascular workouts. If you're not used to working out, start going to the gym a few months before the expedition. Be ready physically and mentally for the trek because you'll need both physical and mental toughness to continue on the difficult Himalayan path through the three passes.

Itinerary
Trip day to day detail itinerary
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After a quick breakfast, you fly to Lukla. Our guide will meet you at your hotel in the morning as per the flight schedule. Make sure you’re done with your breakfast and ready to go when the guide arrives. You will be driven to Kathmandu Airport to board the Lukla flight. This flight is going to be the most thrilling and memorable flight of your life. You’ll see the Himalayan range from your seat if the weather is clear.

On landing at Lukla, you will meet with the porters and begin trekking towards Phakding. From Lukla, the trail ascends through dense forests along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding. It is an easy 3-4 hour hike that you’ll enjoy on your first day of trekking.

After having a warm breakfast at the lodge we stayed overnight, we continue trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it several times over suspension bridges. The trail enters Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, which is home to hundreds of flora and fauna. The trail from the National Park ascends steeply and that can be tough. However, stepping your feet in the beautiful Namche Bazar will make you forget the pain you had earlier. You’ll have an enjoyable stay at Namche, where you’ll meet many trekkers and climbers either heading towards their destination or coming back from their adventure.

This is the first rest day of the Three Passes Trek. Namche Bazar is the best place to acclimatize as it’s full of things to do and places to see. You can spend the day exploring around the narrow streets of Namche, or go on a short hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village. Both places are good for observing excellent views of snow-capped mountains. When you trek back to Namche Bazar, make sure to visit the Everest Photo Gallery and Sherpa Culture Museum. This rest day is also an incredible opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their ancient cultural traditions. 

After enjoying a rest day at Namche, we continue on our trekking journey towards Tengboche. As usual, our day begins with a delicious breakfast. We then hit the train enjoying superb views of Mt. Kantega, Kusum Kanguru, and Mt. Thamserku. The trail further descends to a river and leads you to Phunki Tenga, where we’ll stop for lunch. From here, you ascend through lush forests of rhododendrons to reach Tengboche. If you reach Tengboche before 3 p.m., you can attend a Buddhist prayer at the Tengboche Monastery.

After having breakfast at the teahouse in Tengboche, we begin our hike day, descending through lovely forests of rhododendrons. The trail takes you to Imja Khola and crosses a suspension bridge. From here, you walk passing by a long mani wall and reach Pangboche. Further, you trek uphill through summer pastures and finally reach Dingboche. Dingboche is another beautiful village where you’ll see locals planting high-altitude crops in the fields nearby. It is also where we’ll acclimatize next.

Our second rest day is in Dingboche. You can leisurely explore the village and its nearby area. You can see amazing views of the north face of Ama Dablam along with Lhotse and Nuptse Ridge. If you’re feeling energetic, you can go on a short hike to Nagarjan Peak to acclimatize, which takes about 4 to 5 hours in total. The peak is an excellent viewpoint to enjoy the sight of the glorious mountain peaks of the Everest region. In the afternoon, come back to Dingboche for lunch and spend the rest of the day reading or chatting with fellow trekkers.

It is a short hiking day today, only taking 2 to 3 hours to reach Chhukung from Dingboche. Leaving Dingboche behind, you trek through the stone wall field and ascend along Imja Khola Valley. You can see wonderful landscapes while ascending. Passing via Bibre and crossing a cold stream, you reach Chhukung. When we get to Chhukung, we can relax or trek up to Chhukung Ri for even more breathtaking mountain vistas. Additionally, it will give us time to get ready for our early-morning trip to Kongma La Pass the next day.

The trek begins early in the morning. It is going to be a long day as we cross one of the three passes, Kongma La Pass at 5540 meters. First, you ascend on a narrow rock trail and reach Pokalden Base Camp. You can select to go via any of the possible trails - either climbing over a hill northwest of Chhukung over the moraine of the Nuptse Glacier or descending to the valley to Bibre and following a high trail above the Niyang Khola. Ascending along the east side of Niyang Khola Valley, you turn west and walk through the sloppy stony trial. From here, pass through small frozen lakes and reach Kongma La Pass. The views you get to see from the top of the pass are outstanding. The trail then descends to Lobuche for the night's stay.

Today, you are going to hike up to Everest Base Camp, another highlight of the trek. Trekking on a rocky moraine from Lobuche, you descend to Gorakshep. On the way, you can see views of icy glacial ponds and icebergs. After a short lunch break at Gorakshep, you continue towards the Everest Base Camp. Congratulations, you’ve reached the base camp of the world’s highest mountain peak. Spend some time at the base camp, click some pictures, and prepare to trek back to Gorak Shep for the night stay, as there are no accommodation facilities available at EBC for trekkers. 

Although you’ve reached EBC, you haven’t yet seen the full face of Mt. Everest in its glory. As Mt. Everest isn’t visible from EBC, we go on a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar which is the highest point of the trek and also the best viewpoint. Early in the morning, we ascend to Kala Patthar to reach there before sunrise. From here, you can see glorious sunrise and 360-degree vistas of the Himalayan Mountains, including an up-close view of Mt. Everest. After spending some time at the viewpoint, we descend back to Gorakshep, have breakfast, and head towards Dzongla for the night stay. Dzongla is also the base of Cho La Pass.

It’s time for another long and challenging hiking day as we cross the second high pass, Cho La Pass at 5420 meters. Leaving Dzongla behind, you gradually ascend in the western direction towards Cho La Pass. The trail will be rocky and steep, but the views from the pass will make you forget all the difficulties. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be welcomed by the wonderful views of many snow-capped mountains like Taboche, Cholatse, Baruntse, Thamserku, etc. You’ll also see Cho La Lake and Mt. Amadamblam from the top. After enjoying the view for a while, we descend to Thangnak, which is somehow a relaxing hike. We spend the night at a teahouse in Thannak. 

After the challenging hiking day yesterday, today is a short 3-4 hour hike from Thangnak to Gokyo. We continue our trekking journey with the views of majestic mountains all around us. After a while, we reach Longponga and continue towards Gokyo Valley. On the way, we cross Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the longest glacier in Nepal with a length of 36 km. We, then hike on a sandy shifting trail and cross the second Gokyo lake. From here, we reach the beautiful Gokyo village after a short hike. Gokyo has become a kind of Himalayan resort without the crowd – at least in terms of the comfortable lodges with sunrooms, unbeatable views, excellent food, and warm stoves. We spend a relaxing night at Gokyo.

Today, you wake up early in the morning and hike to Gokyo Ri. Located just above the Gokyo village, you walk on a steep trail to reach Gokyo Ri. Upon reaching here, you will see excellent views of the tallest peaks in the world, including Mt. Cho Oyo, Gyachung Kang, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Cholatse, Taweche, and Mt. Makalu in the east. It is truly a blessing in anyone’s eye. Later, we trek back to Gokyo village.

We have another option for today’s excursion. The second option is a five-hour hike to Gokyo's fifth lake, which brings us right up against Cho-Oyu, the sixth-highest mountain in the world, bordering Tibet. From here, we will also get some breathtaking views of Cho-Oyu, Changtse, and Mount Everest. At the end of the day, we come back to Gokyo village for a delicious Himalayan dinner and a good night’s sleep.

The final high pass of the Everest Three Passes Trek is finally here. Today, we cross Renjo La Pass at an altitude of 5345 meters and descend to Lunde for the night’s stay. After breakfast at Gokyo, we begin the hike on a gradually ascending trail to Renjo La Pass. This is one of the toughest stages of our trek, but upon reaching the top, we'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Mt. Cho-Oyu and other high mountains. You get to see another excellent Himalayan landscape view today. Further, the trail winds down a stone staircase and then scrambles over loose scree to reach the south bank of a small lake, Angladumba Tsho. From here, we walk through a narrow valley clogged with giant boulders and reach Lunde.

From Lunde, the trail slowly descends to Thame. On the way, you can see spectacular views of Thamserku, Kusum Kanguru, Kantega, etc. Overlooking Thame is its famous Gompa situated amidst some fields on a hill to the west. Established some 325 years ago, the Gompa has three big images of Chenresig (Avalokiteswara), Guru Rimpoche, and Buddha Sakyamuni. The colorful Mani Rimdu festival featuring colorful mask dances is held in this Gompa in May. You can take a detour of the Gompa on the way to Thame, where we spend today's night.

After a warm breakfast in the morning, we move along the trail that leads to Namche Bazar. The first part of the trail follows a flat route and descends, which is easy for your legs. Further, you cross a bridge and reach Samde. The trail then steeply drops down through small villages and reaches Namche Bazar. You can enjoy your evening with a few drinks as you don’t have to gain altitude anymore. Namche is a good place to celebrate the successful completion of the trek as it has decent pubs, bars, and restaurants. 

After a quick breakfast at the lodge, we leave Namche Bazaar and descend through Sagarmatha National Park. On the way, we make a few pit stops at Monjo and Phakding before finally reaching Lukla. The trail ascends through dense forests along the Dudh Koshi River. You’ll spend your last night in the Himalayas today. Make sure to tip your porters as you’ll leave them behind in Lukla in the early morning the very next day.

Today, you take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. The flight will be short and scenic. Looking out of your plane window, you can now identify most of the Himalayan peaks. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore and relax. As it is our last day with you, we will host a farewell dinner for you in the evening.

We hope you enjoyed your 18 days in the Everest region with us. Please don’t hesitate to share your valuable feedback. We hope to serve you again in the future. 

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Trip Map
Day to day route map and altitude graph
Everest Three High Pass Trek Route Map
Cost Details
Good to know before trip booking
What's Included
  • Flight fare Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu (inclusive of airport tax)
  • Domestic Airport transfers (for Lukla flights)
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) on trek
  • Accommodations in mountain lodges and tea houses during the trek
  • A guide and porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers; the porter has a 20kg weight limit)
  • Paperwork such as National Park Entry Fees and Local Permits
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffle bag – if NECESSARY (return after the trek)
  • Well-equipped first aid kit, oximeter, and oxygen
  • All the government Tax, VAT, and service charges
  • Farewell dinner on the last night in Kathmandu
  • Trip Achievement Awards for your lifetime memories
  • In case of emergency: A helicopter service will be arranged, which is paid through your travel insurance
What's not Included
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport - Kathmandu)
  • Your Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu (contact us if required)
  • International Airport transfers (contact us if required)
  • Your personal expenses, drinking water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills
  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section
Dates & Prices
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Select a departure month
Showing Departure of Dec 2024
Starts: Monday
Dec 23, 2024
Ends: Thursday
Jan 09, 2025
Price (Per Person)
US$1585
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Starts: Wednesday
Dec 25, 2024
Ends: Saturday
Jan 11, 2025
Price (Per Person)
US$1585
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Starts: Friday
Dec 27, 2024
Ends: Monday
Jan 13, 2025
Price (Per Person)
US$1585
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Starts: Monday
Dec 30, 2024
Ends: Thursday
Jan 16, 2025
Price (Per Person)
US$1585
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Useful Information
Good to know before you travel

How much does the Everest Three Passes Trek cost?

Depending on your group size, the Everest Three Pass Trek Cost anywhere from US$ 1365 to US$ 2000. If you’re trekking alone, the cost turns out to be US$ 2000. The group price for the trek is less. For a group of 2 to 3 people, the cost is US$ 1550 per person. Similarly, the cost for a group of 4 to 6 is US$ 1465 per pax and a group of 7 to 10 people just have to pay US$ 1365 per person. This is Outfitter Nepal's regular package cost. If there are more than 10 guests in your group, we can additionally manage the package budget.

Please keep in mind that changing the lodging or food services included in the overall standard pricing package will increase the trek price. We may upgrade your lodging options for you to a deluxe hotel room or tourist-standard lodging with attached toilets for the deluxe and luxury plans even when you are hiking. While lodges at higher elevations are more basic and have fewer amenities and may not go as high, the cost of deluxe lodging in Namche and similar places can reach as high as US$150 per night.

As a result, the price of a trekking package in the Everest region can change based on whether you want to customize your lodgings or change the itinerary! Read the cost including and cost excluding sections below to find out more about the services provided with the regular trek pricing for three passes.

What to anticipate from the Everest Three High Passes Trek of 18 days?

The Everest Three High Passes Trek 18 Days in the Everest Region gives you the chance to take in the breathtaking grandeur of Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, as well as other treasures, including Gokyo Valley and three high mountain passes. The adventure begins with a spectacular Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla. We follow the Dudh Koshi Valley toward Sherpa's "bustling Namche Bazaar," which is encircled by stunning Himalayan views all around it.

While trekking, you will be awed by the grandeur of the village's surroundings, including the magnificent Rhododendron, Magnolia, and vast Fir forest. If you're lucky, you might come across some wildlife that is at risk of extinction. You will go via the thrilling Gokyo Valley, which is close to the Everest Base Camp. Enjoying your time by the side of Gokyo Lakes is one of the highlights of the trek.

You can enjoy the stunning mountain peak views all around you while on the trip. The splendor you can see from the three high passes appears to be something from a fairy tale. Along with Mt. Everest, other mountains that you will see include Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kwangde, Kangtaiga, and Gyachyung Kang.

Major Attractions of the Everest Three High Passes Trek

Three high passes on the Everest region

The Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass, and Renjo La Passes are three high passes that we trek to during the Everest Three High Pass Trek, in addition to Everest Base Camp. Adventure seekers who want to experience the real Himalayan trekking adventure are drawn to this arduous quest. The route to these passes is difficult, treacherous, and rocky. At the top of these passes, though, you may enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The breathtaking views one can see from these mountain passes make every sweat drop and every upward and downward stride in the difficult terrain worthwhile.

Picturesque Valley of Gokyo

Gokyo Village, situated in the breathtaking Gokyo Valley, offers a serene atmosphere. Only a few hikers make it to this challenging journey through the Three Passes region, which leads to a lonely village in the stunning Gokyo Valley. Here, you'll enjoy stunning vistas that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The lofty Himalayan peaks, enormous glaciers, icefalls, frigid streams, and dazzling lakes are all examples of surreal beauty. Gokyo village in the Himalayas is a quaint little community that is unique in its nature and culture.

Beautiful Gokyo Lakes

The Gokyo Lakes, near the Everest Base Camp in the Sagarmatha National Park, are a great area to unwind and take in the tranquil yet energetic ambiance. These lakes are the highest freshwater lakes in the world, rising between 4,700 and 5,000 meters above sea level. There are six lakes in the Gokyo Lakes, with Thonak Lake being the biggest. The Ngozumpa glacier, the biggest glacier in the Himalayas, provides fresh water to the lakes. It is amazing to watch the turquoise-colored lake encircled by snow-capped mountains against a blue sky.

Hiking to the Everest Base Camp

What could be more fascinating than getting to the base of Mt. Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, and traversing the three high passes of the area? It is an enormous accomplishment just to get to Everest Base Camp. From here, you may enjoy panoramic views of many Himalayan peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and others. Similarly, Everest Base Camp offers stunning views of the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Ice Fall.

Gorgeous Everest view from Kala Patthar

Although the Himalayas are magnificently visible from the Everest Base Camp, Mount Everest is not visible. So, you make your way up to Kala Patthar, one of the most well-known viewpoints in the Khumbu area, from which you can enjoy the stunning dawn and panoramic views of Mount Everest and the nearby mountains. You get to take in the stunning beauty of the region as well as the majestic Everest in all its grandeur!

Namche Bazar, the major Sherpa town

Namche Bazaar, at 3,500 meters, is a notable rest point along the Three Passes route. If you wish to discover Nepal's mountains and Himalayan region, this is a fantastic destination to go to. Treks in the Everest region usually start in Namche Bazaar. It is a bustling market town where you can find anything from Tibetan souvenirs to gear for climbing and trekking. Namche, which was once a significant commerce hub in the Khumbu region, is now a tourist center filled with trekkers and mountaineers. In addition, Namche provides details on Sherpa culture and way of life as well as a memorial to earlier mountaineering expeditions.

Tengboche Monastery, the largest and oldest in the Khumbu region

The Tengboche Monastery is another main draw for hikers, mountaineers, and everyone else along the Everest Three Passes Trek route. This Khumbu region's ancient monastery, which is also a revered religious place, provides stunning views of Mount Amadablam and the neighboring Himalayas. Built by Lama Gulu in 1916, the monastery suffered serious damages due to an earthquake in 1934 and a fire in 1989. Despite these tragedies, the Tengboche monastery continues to be the oldest and biggest in the Khumbu region.

Exciting mountain flight to Lukla

The starting point of the ultimate Everest Trek, Lukla, is a quick 35-minute flight from Kathmandu. It will be an exhilarating and breathtakingly gorgeous flight as you fly over the Himalayas with shiny mountain peaks below you. It is the small runway at Lukla Airport that makes this flight so exciting. It features one of the shortest runways in the world, measuring just 525 meters (1,729 feet), and one of the world’s highest airports, standing at 2,845 meters (9,334 feet). Lukla Airport is a unique airport to land in because of how steep the runway is and how it hangs from the side of a mountain.

Weather Conditions in The Everest Region

Keep in mind that the weather in the Himalayas is frequently unpredictable, especially in the upper portions of the trek. You might experience extreme cold, rain, and, in the worst case, snow in the higher elevations of the climb. Make sure you're equipped to handle unforeseen circumstances. In addition, we advise packing extra clothing and weather protection even if you're trekking in the summer to deal with such circumstances. Additionally, there's a good potential that an avalanche may occur, so you should exercise extra caution.

The weather is often nice and constant during the peak season. Even so, the nighttime temperature drops quickly and unexpectedly. When trekking in this region, make sure to pack enough layers and warm inner clothes because temperatures below freezing can be very uncomfortable without proper clothing.

Additionally, the weather may prevent the excursion from starting on time. The only fast route to the Everest region is by air, and that only goes to Lukla. Consequently, the early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is regularly canceled due to bad weather. A plane cannot safely land at the Lukla airstrip unless the weather is good. Therefore, if you're trekking in the Everest region, you should consider adding a few more days to your itinerary in order to complete your journey and ensure that everything goes as planned.

Best Time for Everest Three Passes Trek

There’s a famous saying, "Nepal for all seasons." It is always a wonderful idea to go trekking in Nepal as you may trek year-round. However, spring and autumn are the greatest times to go hiking in the Everest region, which includes the three passes. The consistency and pleasantness of the weather improve during these times, which makes traveling more pleasurable. These months experience warm and temperate weather, creating a cozy environment to trek. Autumn occurs from September to November, while spring lasts from March to May.

It is difficult to trek during the monsoon season. The monsoon's excessive rainfall causes the walkway to become muddy and dangerous. You must move with caution. Therefore, it is best to avoid trekking during the monsoon if you are a beginner. No matter the season, if you're an experienced hiker, you'll enjoy every obstacle. The higher areas of the Everest region do not receive too much rain, anyway.

Although it is possible to trek in the Everest region in the winter, most people opt not to do so because of the bitter weather. The trail is normally busy in the lower areas, but since you'll be taking on the toughest journey in the higher altitude, you won't meet as many other hikers. Similarly, throughout the winter the Everest region is entirely covered with snow. As a result, the routes will become difficult to traverse. Winter, however, is the best season to photograph the Himalayas. 

Everest Three Pass Trek Difficulty

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Khumbu region. You will cross three of the area's high passes. There will be a lot of ascents and descents on the course through rocky, steep terrain. You will walk along glacial pathways and glacier moraines.

For at least three weeks, you will have to walk for an average of six hours per day. The tour includes areas impacted by landslides, difficult treks, and terrifying landscapes. The hike is arduous, and the glaciers make it even more difficult. The glaciers are hazardous to cross. You'll have to tread on the ice, and if you wait until later in the day, the warm weather might cause the ice to crack.

Thus, to participate in the trekking expedition, you must be in great physical and mental condition. To increase your strength and readiness for this expedition, it's a good idea to start working out and running a few months before the trip. Your prior mountaineering expertise may be useful. Before beginning this excursion, you must consult with your doctor if you can participate in this trek. Anyone with a history of serious medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease, should let your tour organizers know before booking this expedition.

Fitness Level for Trekking the Three Passes

It's physically tough to walk for three weeks. You will have to walk for an average of six hours every day on this strenuous three-pass journey. There isn't any other option; you can't give up in the middle. To complete this Everest Three High Passes trip, you must be physically prepared. To avoid getting tired quickly, you'll need to get your body ready. In order to better understand oneself, you should train for this expedition by undertaking shorter climbs or treks.

Being mentally tough is also essential for this expedition. You will be moving through a region with no facilities. Here, warm clothing and wholesome food are luxuries. You'll need to get ready and motivated if you want to adapt to the rural way of life. While preparing for the worst, try not to overthink it. If one is not mentally prepared, the Everest region journey will become more tough.

Trekking is enjoyable if you take your time and don't feel pressured. Nature will return your affection if you show it. So enjoy the view, have fun on the ride, and stay inspired.

Accommodation during Everest Three Passes Trek

During the Everest trekking, there are both high-end and luxurious hotels as well as affordable lodges and guest houses. The guest house accommodations include basic amenities like beds with decent mattresses, pillows, blankets, bedsheets, communal restrooms, and food. This is what’s included in our package. The common arrangement is for two individuals to share the modest yet cozy rooms with 2 beds. We can make arrangements for a separate room if you're traveling alone, but you might have to share a room with fellow trekkers during peak season.

If you’re not comfortable staying at such basic lodges, we can also help you arrange a luxurious hotel and teahouse within your price range wherever available. You can find rooms costing up to US$ 150 per night in certain Everest towns like Namche, Lukla, and Gokyo. However, you have to cover the cost of it yourself.

Food for the trek

To guarantee that the cuisine is excellent, fresh, and healthy, we carefully select the best hotels, resorts, and restaurants. The tea houses along the trekking route provide modest and hygienic food. Since local foods are much more hygienic, we encourage people to consume locally-produced food. Frozen food items that must travel days to reach the trails are not the best option. Even while there are non-vegetarian options, we won't suggest them because the meat in those establishments might not be as hygienic.

Your body will need adequate carbohydrates and proteins for energy as you'll be climbing at high altitudes around the tallest peak in the world. We suggest Dal Bhat, a Nepalese dish that gives your body the right amount of carbs and protein. The lentil, bean, and pulse soup is a good source of protein and rice is an excellent carbohydrate source. Another favorite food is Syakpa, also referred to as Sherpa stew. The guest's home will also serve seasonal veggies, which will give your body the nutrients it needs.

You may also sample additional menu items including momo (dumplings), locally produced barley, buckwheat, millet, and corn roti (bread), noodles, sandwiches, bakery items, tea, coffee, and more. Buckwheat, millet, and barley are grain varieties that are high in fiber and packed with nutrients. Just a few examples of foods that can be easily cooked include noodles, spaghetti, macaroni, pizza, various curry dishes, and fried rice.

We recommend consuming fresh vegetable items at great heights together with liquids like green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, and garlic soup to fight altitude sickness.

Guides and Porters

The easiest approach to guarantee your safety in the trek area is to hire a knowledgeable guide. We always advise picking experienced, authorized guides at Outfitter Nepal, and this trek is no exception. A professional guide knows the path and regional weather trends, as well as how to react to them. A knowledgeable guide is also familiar with first aid and the appropriate techniques in case of an emergency.

A competent guide can make or break your trip. We can assure you that your journey to the Everest region will be enjoyable and comfortable with our knowledgeable trekking guides at Outfitter Nepal. In addition to trained guides, we also provide fit and experienced porters who will carry your baggage. One porter is assigned to two trekkers who carry a total of 20 kg from 2 of you.

Travel Insurance

We firmly encourage you to get travel insurance before doing any adventurous activities. Since there are many risks associated with trekking in high altitudes in Nepal, getting insurance that would protect you in the event of an unplanned calamity is crucial. A helicopter is the only means to rescue you in the event of weather or medical issues, so check with your insurance company to see if peak climbing in Nepal is covered. Also, make sure your coverage includes hospitalization and helicopter evacuation.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Your trek will take you up into the Himalayas, to a height of about 6000 meters. Therefore, concern about getting AMS or altitude sickness is rather understandable. The amount of oxygen that is available in the air decreases as altitude increases. The sudden drop in temperature may also cause some people to experience altitude sickness. Early signs of the journey include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. No matter how fit they are, everyone can be affected by altitude sickness. Therefore, it is advised to adapt and move at a leisurely speed.

If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, inform your trekking guide immediately. They will understand your condition and suggest to you the possible actions you can take to help you with altitude sickness. You might have to retrace your steps to the lower altitude if the symptoms get worse. You can take medication to control minor symptoms. Proper acclimatization, a slow hiking pace, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration are the preventive measures of AMS. So, keep these in mind while going on the Everest Three Passes Trek.

Permits Required for the Three Passes Trek

Everest region does not require a TIMS permit anymore. You’d require two permits: one for the National Park and another is a local permit to enter the Everest region.

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit - US$ 30
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit - US$ 20

Packing List for Everest Three Passes Trek

We always suggest our guests pack only what’s necessary. Excessive luggage makes it difficult to carry for you and also for the potters. Also, the Lukla flight allows a maximum of 15 kg of luggage along with your hand carry. We’ve listed some important trekking gear you’d require for the trek. Please go through them.

  • Trekking Boots
  • Sandals/Crocs
  • Woolwn socks
  • Down jacket and pants
  • Fleece jacket
  • Thermal clothing
  • Light pants and T-shirts for trekking
  • Several sets of underwear
  • One set of gloves
  • A wool hat
  • A sun hat
  • Trekking poles 
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • A book or playing cards
  • Water purifying tablets
  • Nutrient bars or chocolates

Benefits of Trekking Three Passes with Outfitter Nepal

Outfitter Nepal Treks and Expedition has been in the industry for more than 2 decades. In these years, we’ve offered our travel services like trekking trips, peak climbing expeditions, and tours in Nepal to visitors from all around the world. Here are a few reasons why you should also trek the Everest Three Passes with Outfitter Nepal:

  • We are aware of and consistently exceed our clients' expectations. You can read what past clients have to say about us on our Review pages and Trip Advisor.
  • In the Himalayan regions surrounding Everest and other sites, we solely employ native hiking guides and porters.
  • At Outfitter Nepal, we prioritize the protection and safety of our clients. We appreciate client satisfaction highly. We therefore take great care to make sure that our visitors have an unforgettable experience in Nepal's Himalayas.
  • Our knowledgeable, multilingual, professional local trekking guides speak fluent English, which is a widely used language. The porters are physically fit due to the great altitude, while the guides are government-licensed and highly trained. The Everest region is a serious place for hiking, but we make it fun, too!
  • We never cancel on you, and we have guaranteed departure dates!
FAQs
Everest Three Pass Trek - 18 Days frequently asked questions

Due to its destination being remote, the Three Passes route does not contain an ATM. The final ATM in the Everest region is located in Namche. ATMs are absent after Namche. Considering that the walk starts in Namche, be sure to pack enough money for the trip. It is even better to withdraw money from Kathmandu before the trip as Namche ATMs may be unreliable.

Your body has adequate time to acclimate to the altitude during our 18-day Everest trek to the Three High Passes. The simplest method to avoid any complications is to proceed gently, move slowly and steadily like a snail, and consume lots of liquids. A slight headache is the most typical sign of altitude sickness, but other signs of acute mountain sickness (AMS) include weariness, drowsiness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, trouble walking, and rattling breath. Taking medications is advised if necessary!

The majority of lodges, guest rooms, campers, and even some solar-powered locations have electricity, so you can recharge your phone and camera batteries there. Bring some backup batteries with you on your Three Passes journey in case there is a risk that there won't be enough electricity to charge your electronics.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available in most guest houses, lodges, and towns along the Everest paths (aside from a few isolated areas), but it will cost you money. Don't rely on it because it cannot be guaranteed and may not always work. You won’t feel the need to surf the internet while you’re on the trek, anyway. The best alternative if you need to stay in touch with loved ones, friends, or coworkers while on the journey is an Everest Link Wi-Fi card. All of the communities, including Gorakshep and Gokyo, as well as the majority of the Three Passes Trek, have access to the same internet connection. If you avoid using the internet at higher altitudes, you can select between NCell and NTC for lower regions.

The weather in Lukla can be unpredictable, especially from June to September when it's monsoon. You must therefore reserve a few days in case your flight is postponed or, in the worst case situation, canceled! You can either hire a helicopter service or wait until your flight, which is scheduled to leave at the end of the day, the following day. It's important to keep in mind that the helicopter might not even take off if the weather is very bad.

If you can control your water source, the better. Before leaving for your journey, you can purchase water purification tablets in Kathmandu to filter your water. Getting free tap water, purifying it with water-purifying pills, and then drinking the water can help you save money. Every lodge and teahouse has access to bottled or boiling water, and the price of a bottle of water is between 100 and 250 NPR. To prevent dehydration, it is advised that you drink 4-6 liters of water daily.

Yes, there are numerous hot showers available throughout the trail. The Everest region, however, is exceptionally chilly, particularly in the higher altitude areas. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid taking many showers while on the hike. Showers should only be taken occasionally in low-altitude areas like Namche, Dingboche, and Lukla. You should be aware that using a hot shower also costs money.

The aircraft that fly to Lukla are small, with a 15-kilogram weight restriction per person for both hand luggage and checked baggage together. You ought to be able to limit your luggage to no more than 10 kilograms. Although it is possible to pay more to carry a few additional pounds, this isn't certain because extra luggage is only accepted when there is space.

Tipping is totally acceptable and frequently anticipated when trekking in Nepal. It is more common in the tourism sector. It is typical to expect that you will tip your guide and porter if you have hired them. Make sure to tip your trekking guide and porters at least 10% to 15% of the entire amount you paid to your tour operator!

You can decide whether to reserve your trek in advance via the Internet or with a local company after you arrive in Nepal. Booking with any of the several trekking companies in Kathmandu that offer Everest trekking is easy. However, we advise you to make travel arrangements in advance so that you can travel with confidence once you have made your trek reservations before arriving in Nepal. When you plan and schedule the trek in advance, the company handles everything, including airport transfers to hotels in Kathmandu, flights to Lukla, permits, and route housing, as well as guides and porters.

It is your decision to hike alone or with a group. Both travel styles are available for booking at Outfitter Nepal. If you sign up for a private solo trek, you may move at your own speed without feeling pressured and you won't be required to follow a predetermined schedule because you'll have your own private guide and porter. You will also pay a little bit more for a private solo trip to Everest Base Camp than for a trek there with a group.

No, you don't need to know Nepali to go on the Everest Three Passes Trekking journey. You'll have an English-speaking trekking guide with whom you can communicate. Additionally, the majority of people who work in hotels and retail establishments speak Basic English. If you want to communicate with children and Sherpa locals, learn a few Nepali phrases before you go. Try learning Nepali; it's not as hard as you might imagine.

You may definitely go on the hike with your family and kids above 13. According to studies, children experience altitude sickness at the same rate as adults. There is no evidence to suggest that kids are more prone to altitude sickness. If your youngster is capable of making an altitude trek both physically and psychologically, go with them. However, on average, your kids should be able to walk for 5-7 hours daily at a high altitude. Keep in mind to perform some basic exercises and breathing techniques when traveling. Eat a more balanced diet that contains fiber and carbohydrates instead of junk food.

One of the world's most challenging journeys, the Everest 3 Passes Trek takes you well into the Everest region. You get to view the area around Everest and how the terrain rises to form the tallest mountain in the world. The difficult trip offers a more in-depth view of the arid landscape, chilly environment, and ongoing human struggle in high elevations. The Three Passes Trek covers a total distance of 166 kilometers (103 miles).

Outfitter Nepal has a capable team of mountain guides and trekking leaders who are extremely skilled in handling any crises or challenges that may arise while on the journey. You must first inform your trek guide if you become ill from the altitude so that he will know exactly what to do. Due to his extensive training, he is able to recognize the seriousness of the situation and respond appropriately, either by lowering you to a lower elevation or by using a helicopter to rescue you. We will use our local workers and contacts to arrange an alternative rescue and treatment method if the helicopter is unable to fly for any reason, which may involve employing horses or stretchers.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of Nepal's most difficult treks, which is a well-known fact. During this hike, altitude sickness is a very real possibility. You will be trekking in high altitudes and challenging conditions due to the difficult trails over the rocks and perilous glaciers at some points along the journey. Before embarking on this difficult excursion, we advise those who are new to hiking and trekking to take on other less strenuous climbs. As we appreciate your holiday, your time, your money, and your experience, Himalayan Glacier is extremely sincere in offering to help you while you plan your trip. We advise you to not waste your priceless vacation time and to always maintain contact with professionals.

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