3 Passes Trek Nepal | Itinerary & Cost

The Everest 3 Pass trek is one of the most challenging and demanding treks in the world, but it provides adventure enthusiasts with the opportunity to cross and climb the three highest passes of the Everest region: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m). Along with these high passes, trekkers can also opt for equally challenging to moderate treks such as Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar Trek, Gokyo Valley Trek, and Everest Panorama Trek.
During the trek, you'll get to enjoy breathtaking views of some of the highest mountains in the world, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu, from these high passes, if weather permits. After the Gokyo Valley, you'll descend to Thame through grazing pastures.
The trek starts with a land transport from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, followed by a flight to Lukla, and then a walk through Dudh Koshi river bank, Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Bazaar, Thame, Murlung, Gokyo up to high passes while experiencing the local culture and Sherpa hospitality. Along the trails, you'll pass through Sagarmatha National Park, which was established to protect the flora and fauna of the Himalayas. Thame, an ancient village, is home to one of the largest monasteries in the Khumbu region and provides some of the best Himalayan views in the world. The trek concludes at Lukla before flying back to Kathmandu.
Trekking to the Everest 3 High Passes is best done in the spring from March, April, to May, and in the fall in late September, October, to November.
These months provide clearer skies, ideal for photography, and pleasant weather. Though it's possible to do the trek in January and February, it can be very cold higher up (-20C/-4F to – 30C/-22F) and full of snow on the trail during winter.
This trek can be customized to suit the interests and suggested dates of clients. Check out our suggested itinerary for the Everest 3 High Passes Trek and kindly send any suggestions via email at info@wetreknepal.com . We are happy to organize this trek for individuals and groups as per request.

Your Itinerary

Day-01: Arrive in Kathmandu & transfer to hotel

Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will be there to welcome you and take you to your hotel in a comfortable vehicle. Our airport-hotel transfer service is more than just a simple ride. Once you arrive at the hotel, you will be offered a welcome drink in the lobby, and then you can proceed with the check-in process. Our company’s manager will be there to personally brief you on the itinerary to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trekking journey in Nepal. Your accompanying guide will handle all the logistics during the trek, so you can focus solely on your adventure and relax!

Day-02: Permits preparation and Kathmandu Sightseeing

After having breakfast, you will embark on a guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, which will include visiting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour will commence with a visit to Pashupatinath, which is considered to be the most sacred Hindu Temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. Following that, you will proceed to Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is a historically and culturally significant site. The tour will then proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, which is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a former royal palace complex.
Your city guide will accompany you during the tour and provide information about each place, including its historical and religious significance. Moreover, the guide will address any queries you might have. The sightseeing tour will take approximately three to four hours, and lunch will be provided during the tour. Once the tour is completed, you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Meanwhile, our team will be busy preparing for all necessary permits, which include trekking, climbing, and Sagarmatha National Park permits,

Day-03: Drive to Ramechhap, fly to Lukla (2,800m), and hike to Phakding (2,610m)

Today, it is important for you to wake up early and have breakfast. At around 09:00 or 10:00 a.m., you will be leaving Kathmandu for Manthali airport in the Ramechap district. This journey will take approximately 3.5 hours by private transport. Once you reach Manthali airport, you will catch a flight to Lukla. This is because Kathmandu Airport has increasingly become congested and Lukla is the busiest domestic flight sector in Nepal. By taking this route, we can avoid the traffic congestion at Kathmandu Airport and provide you with easy flight access to Lukla. The flight to Lukla takes only 15 minutes and offers picturesque views of the mountains and scenery. Upon arrival at Lukla airport, we will take a short hike along the trail through the Dudhkoshi River’s bank to Phakding (2,610m). Later in the afternoon, we will visit nearby attractions of Phakding before settling in for the night at a lodge.

Day-04: Trek to Namche Bazar (3,440m) Lodge

After breakfast, we will begin our trek, which will mostly be an uphill walk through the alpine valleys. The Dudh Kosi River will be crossed several times before we reach Namche Bazaar, the capital of the Sherpa people in the Khumbu area. This vibrant alpine town is the entry point to the Khumbu area and the Everest Base Camp. Situated at an elevation of 3,440 meters, trekkers and mountaineers looking for adventure in the most breathtaking mountain range on earth will also find refuge here. On a clear day, while trekking you can enjoy stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Kusum Kangru, Kwangde, and Taweche
Discover the vibrant Sherpa culture in this little town with its meandering stone-paved pathways and colorful houses. It's also a great starting point for exploring the many hiking trails that weave through the area. The town is a must-visit for anybody traveling through the Himalayas because of its distinctive setting, energetic attitude, and rich cultural legacy.

Day-05: Rest and Acclimatization Day Lodge

It is important to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes. Namche Bazaar is a great place to do this, and it's recommended that everyone includes an acclimatization day here in their trekking itinerary. While in Namche, you can explore the area and take it easy. The town is nestled between two ridges and surrounded by towering peaks of the Khumbu region. It also boasts numerous lodges, tea shops, souvenir shops, and stunning views. This makes it an ideal place to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude before moving on to places like Thame and other higher altitudes in Khumbu. As part of the acclimatization process, we will visit the Everest View Hotel, the only luxury hotel located at an altitude of 3,800 meters and offers amazing views of Everest and other beautiful mountains. After spending a few hours at the hotel, we'll descend back to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.

Day-06: Trek to Thame ( 3,820m ) Lodge

Today, we will embark on a picturesque trek to Thame, a charming historic village along the less-traveled route. Our journey will take us through various fascinating landmarks, including gompas, mani stones, carved boulders, and prayer flags. The next leg of trekking journey will take us through pine and juniper forests to Phurte village (3,390m), where you may find basic teahouses, lodges, and traditional Sherpa homes. You will come across a mani wall and a chorten during the trek.
After exploring Thamo and Samde villages, we will continue our trek with a short but steep descent, passing a rock face adorned with three brightly painted Buddhas. Then, after traversing a bridge over the Bhote Koshi River, we will zigzag our way beside the Thame Khola (River) until we eventually arrive at the walled farms and traditional Sherpa homes at Thame village. Here we will spend the night at a cozy lodge. It's worth noting that Thame is the village where the Everest region and the Rolwaling Valley meet, making it a unique and exciting place to visit.

Day-07: Trek to Murlung (4,210m) Lodge

Today's trek will take you through a rugged terrain along the wide path beside the river. You will continue to climb gently through the villages of Hungmo and Tarangar, and finally, after an hour’s hike, you will arrive at Murlung. It is a tiny village situated in a remote valley, where some lodges are available to spend the night. Along the way, you may encounter herds of yaks and see some of the unique wildlife that inhabits this region. It is important to remember that you will be spending the night above 4000 metres, so it is advisable to take it easy while moving around Marulung. Altitude sickness can be avoided by being sensible, so it is better to be safe than sorry. In addition, most of the inhabitants in Marlung are in bed by 9 p.m. since the temperature drops dramatically as the sun sets at this altitude.

day-08: Cross Renjo La Pass (5,340m) & Trek to Gokyo (4,790m) 8-9 hrs

We will cross the Renjo-La pass and hike to Gokyo today, so get ready early in the morning after breakfast. It will take us a couple of hours to reach the top of the Renjo La pass (5,340m), where we will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, and many other peaks, shining in the first light of the day.
Views from Renjo La resemble those from Gokyo Ri, including Gokyo Village and the third Gokyo Lake behind the massive, debris-covered Ngozumpa Glacier that drains south from Cho Oyu. We will continue walking through the glacier to reach Gokyo, where we will be staying overnight at lodge.

day-09: Rest day in Gokyo

To help in our acclimation to the higher altitude, we stay in Gokyo for two nights. Prayer flags and massive cairns mark the top. Enjoy a gorgeous view of Gokyo's turquoise lake, situated far below the summit. An excursion to the fourth and fifth lakes is recommended for passionate trekkers. Trekking time 2-3 hours.

Day-10: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,300m) and back to Thagnak/ Dragnak ( 4,750m) 3-4 hrs

If the weather permits in the morning, we will start our ascent to Gokyo Ri and then continue our trek towards Thangnak (Dragnag). Once we reach a point beyond the southern end of Lake Taboche Tsho, we will come across a cairn that will mark a fork in the trail. To continue our journey, we will branch left, make an easy rise across the slope, and reach the top of the moraine wall at a saddle. From this point, we will have an excellent view of the Ngozumpa Glacier towards Cho Oyu in the north, as well as Cholatse and Taboche in the southeast.
After enjoying the stunning views, we will make our descent to the glacier, where we will weave around ice cliffs, rocky humps, skirt small lakes, and cross flats of glacial sand. The views from here are breathtaking in every direction. Finally, the trail will lead us to the ablation valley below Thangnak, where we will spend the night after passing the glaciers. Here, three simple lodges and a couple of huts are available for overnight stay

Day-11: Trek to Zhongla/ Dzongla (4,620m) via Cho-La Pass (5,330m)

Today, we will start by climbing the trail steadily to a cairn on the crest of a moraine ridge. Then, we will descend into a valley and arrive at an area of rocks and boulders known as Cho La Base Camp or Phedi (4,930m/16,175ft), which means “at the foot of the hill”. To continue our journey, we will stay close to the right-hand rock wall, where cairns indicate the way down. The views ahead will be magnificent.
We will make a steep descent down rocky "steps" until we reach an easy path, which will lead us to the bed of the valley. The rest of the trek to our overnight stop, Dzonglha, will be through this beautiful valley, and we will be able to enjoy the stunning views. Dzonglha is a walled enclosure that consists of a few simple lodges and camping grounds. From there, we can see a terrific close-up view of Cholatse's north-east face (6,335m)To the south lies Chola Tsho lake (4,590m). We will stay overnight at Dzonglha. The trekking time for today is 6-7 hours.

Day-12: Trek to Gorakshep (5,170m), hike to EBC (5,364m) and back to Gorakshep Lodge

We will begin our trek towards Gorakshep after having breakfast at Dzongla. Gorakshep is located at an altitude of 5,170 meters near Mount Everest and remains uninhabited for most of the year. We will walk through rocky dunes, moraines, and streams before finally reaching Mt. Everest Base Camp from Gorakshep. It is important to note that the thin air at such a high altitude can be exhausting. However, once you reach the Everest Base Camp, you'll witness some of the world's highest peaks, which stand in stark contrast to the grey surroundings, especially during the spring season.
It's important to note that two trekking groups are not allowed to stay in the base camp for very long. However, during your visit, you will have the opportunity to feel the buzz and excitement of potential summiteers of Everest (if you visit during the climbing season - April/May). After spending some time at the base camp, we will descend back to Gorak Shep for the overnight stay, passing great views of the Khumbu icefall. It will take approximately 3 to 4 hours to walk back to Gorakshep.

Day-13: Hike to Kalapathar (5,545m) and back to Lobuche (4,910m) Lodge

Today, we will begin our 1.2km walk towards Kala Pattar, also known as the Black Rock, where we will witness a breathtaking sunrise and get a close-up view of Mount Everest. It usually takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach Kalapatthar. The steep terrain and high altitude may be challenging, but the stunning views that await us at the top make it all worth it. Standing at Kalapatthar, you'll feel like you're on top of the world, and you'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse. As we make our way back to Lobuche, we'll notice the landscape transforming around us, from rocky terrain to lush alpine vegetation. The descent will be easier and mostly downhill all the way. Overnight at Lobuche.

Day-14: Trek to Chhukung (4,750m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m) Lodge

When descending towards Chhukung after crossing the Kongma La Pass, it is important to be cautious. This is the highest pass among the popular three passes of the Everest trekking region. Although not a frequently used route, it is a unique way to observe the beautiful high mountain landscapes. This trek is challenging and is recommended only for experienced trekkers. We advise that you undertake this trek during the best times of year - spring and autumn seasons. From the top of the pass, trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking view of Thamserku, Ama dablam, Kongtega, Makalu Lhotse, Lobuche, Tabuche, Cholatse, Pumori, and numerous peaks and glacial lakes. Trekking through pine forests, alpine deserts, and Sherpa settlements, the Kongma La Pass offers an opportunity to experience the area's natural and cultural grandeur, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Overnight stay at a lodge

Day-15: Trek to Namche Bazar Lodge

After having breakfast, you will start your trek from Chhukung to Namche Bazaar. It will be a relatively easy downhill walk, passing through various villages, until you reach Namche Bazaar. During the trek, you will be able to relish the breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse. Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.

Day-16: Trek back to Lukla Lodge

Today is the final day of our trek. After we have breakfast, we will descend the trail slowly and carefully, due to the steep path and our tired legs from the long trekking we did earlier. The beauty of nature will be on full display, with colorful rhododendrons and pine forests, open plains, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains that appear to loom over the trekking route. The Sherpa villages, with their Buddhist culture reflected in prayer flags, prayer stones, and gompas, along with the lush vegetation, make this trekking experience an amazing one. In this Sherpa town, we will take some time to relax and reflect on the experiences we gained during the challenging yet rewarding trekking journey. Once we arrive in Lukla, we will spend the night in a comfortable lodge, reflecting on the day's expedition.

Day-17: Fly to Ramechhap and drive to Kathmandu Hotel

After breakfast, you will leave Lukla to catch your early flight to Ramechap. Many flights will fly every hour because the flight from Lukla to Ramechap is shorter.

Day-18: Transfer to the International Airport

Today marks the end of your stay in Nepal. You will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to the Tribhuvan International Airport as per your flight departure time. As you board your flight, bid a fond farewell to our Himalayan Country, taking with you the memories of the snow-capped peaks, beautiful scenery, and the warm smiles of the people you have encountered along the way. Nepal will always hold a special place in your heart, and until we meet again, carry the beauty and charm of this land with you.

Includes

Pick up and drop off on your arrival and departure
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis
Basic teahouse accommodation in the mountains
All breakfasts for the trip
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
Three cups of tea a day during the trek
A farewell dinner in Kathmandu
All overland transportation required
Flight to Lukla and back to Kathmandu
A guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu
A professional trekking guide and necessary number of porters with their insurance
All necessary permits for the trekking

Excludes

International airfare and travel insurance
Any kind of drinks except three cups of tea a day during the trek
Gratuities to the guide and porters
Cost raised by any unfortunate, unforeseen and uncontrollable situations
Any other cost not mentioned in the ‘Includes’ section

Samikshya Lamichhane

21st Mar 2023

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Everest Three (3 ) High Passes Trek

USD 1905

Start & End Point

Kathmandu

Duration

21 Days

Best Time

Oct-Nov Feb-Apr

Grade

Hard

Activity

Trekking