Everest Three Passes Trek - 18 Days

Overview of the Everest Three Passes Trek

The Everest Three Passes Trek is a demanding yet incredibly rewarding adventure that offers the most complete trekking experience in the Everest region. This trek goes beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route by crossing three high mountain passes: Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), each presenting various landscapes and unmatched Himalayan views.

The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and follows ancient Sherpa trails through iconic villages such as Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gokyo, and Thame. Along the way, we trek through high-altitude valleys, cross glaciers, and explore remote areas that remain untouched by mass tourism. The route also includes key highlights like Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes, making it one of the most diverse treks in Nepal.

Designed for experienced trekkers with strong physical fitness, the Everest Three Passes Trek demands endurance, acclimatization, and mental resilience. In return, it delivers unparalleled scenery, deep cultural immersion, and a true sense of Himalayan adventure.

Highlights of the Everest Three Passes Trek

• Crossing Three High Himalayan Passes: Experience the thrill of conquering Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, all above 5,000 meters, offering sweeping views of glaciers and towering peaks.
• Panoramic Views of the World’s Highest Mountains: Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Pumori from multiple vantage points.
• Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar: Stand at the base of the world’s highest mountain and climb Kala Patthar for iconic sunrise and sunset views over Everest.
• Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Lakes: Discover the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes, one of the highest freshwater lake systems in the world, and climb Gokyo Ri for exceptional panoramic views.
• Remote Trails and Fewer Crowds: Trek through less-traveled routes beyond the main Everest trail, offering a quieter and more authentic Himalayan experience.
• Rich Sherpa Culture and Buddhist Heritage: Visit ancient monasteries, prayer walls, and traditional Sherpa villages, gaining insight into local culture and mountain life.
• Glacier Crossings and Dramatic Landscapes: Walk across the Khumbu Glacier, high alpine moraines, and rugged mountain terrain that define the Everest region.

Why Trekkers Choose The Great Adventure for the Everest Three Passes Trek

Unmatched Professional Expertise

Our guides are native to the Himalayas and trained by Nepal’s premier mountaineering institutions. With extensive experience safely crossing Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, they know every challenge, every route variation, and every weather shift. Their local insight and technical skill ensure a smoother, safer, and more rewarding journey.

Safety as Our Core Priority

Your safety guides every decision we make. Every trek includes:

• Daily health assessments

• Thoughtfully designed acclimatization plans

• Essential medical kits and oximeters

• Optional supplementary oxygen

• Guides trained to identify and manage altitude-related issues

Our safety reputation is among the strongest in the Nepal trekking industry.

Small Group Advantage

We operate with intentionally small group sizes to ensure:

• Personalized guidance

• Safer pacing at altitude

• More attentive communication

• Stronger group connection

• Better overall comfort

This approach allows us to deliver a more meaningful, well-supported trekking experience.

Deep Local Insight

We know the Everest region intimately—its quiet trails, hidden viewpoints, cultural landmarks, and lesser-known gems. Trekkers with us explore more than the standard route; they experience the authentic heart and soul of the Khumbu.

Highest Completion Rate in the Region

Thanks to our carefully designed itinerary, expert leadership, and acclimatization strategy, The Great Adventure maintains one of the highest Three Passes success rates in Nepal. Proper preparation and experienced guidance help ensure that trekkers complete all three passes safely and confidently.

Highlights of Trekking with The Great Adventure

• Skilled, certified, and caring Sherpa guides

• Comfortable and clean teahouses chosen for reliability

• A meticulously planned acclimatization schedule

• Technical support during high-pass crossings

• Trails selected to avoid heavy crowds where possible

• Fair and transparent pricing

• Ethical porter care and responsible tourism practices

Best Seasons for Three Passes Circuit Trek

The best seasons for the Three Passes Trek are spring and autumn because these months offer better weather, safer trail conditions, and clear mountain views. Since this trek crosses very high passes, choosing the right season is important for comfort and safety.

Spring season from March to May

Spring is a beautiful time for the Three Passes Trek. The weather is mostly stable, with warmer days and cool nights. The trails are lively with blooming rhododendron forests, especially at lower elevations. Snow may still be present on the high passes, but it is usually manageable and adds to the adventure. Mountain views are clear in the mornings, and the temperatures are comfortable for long walking days.

Autumn season from September to November

Autumn is considered the best and most reliable season for this trek. After the monsoon rains, the skies become clear and the air is fresh. The trails are dry, making it easier and safer to cross the high passes. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, and visibility is excellent, offering stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and surrounding peaks. This season also allows trekkers to experience local festivals and cultural life along the trail.

Why The Great Adventure Is the Best Company for the Three Passes Circuit

High-Quality Teahouses

We select only trusted teahouses known for cleanliness, warm hospitality, good food, and reliability.

Expert Local Guides

All guides are certified, experienced, and fluent in English. Their regional knowledge ensures enriched cultural and safety-focused experiences.

Responsible Staff Care

We strictly follow porter weight limits, provide proper gear, and ensure fair compensation and treatment.

Comprehensive Support

From permits to airport pickups, accommodations to daily safety checks, we manage every detail for a smooth journey.

Honest, Transparent Pricing

You receive clear, upfront pricing with no hidden charges.

Preparing for Three Pass Trek With The Great Adventure

We assist you with:

• Gear recommendations

• Training and fitness guidance

• Packing suggestions

• Route briefings

• Altitude-awareness tips

Our preparation ensures you step onto the trail confident and well-informed.

Join us for the Everest Three Passes Trek

The Everest Three Passes Trek requires skill, experience, and a dependable guiding team. We provide all of these with excellence. If you want the most secure, organized, and memorable Three Passes experience, we are the company best suited for you.

Everest Three Passes Trek – Outline Itinerary (18 Days)

Day 01: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at 2,840 meters. After landing, the trek starts with a gentle descent through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages such as Chheplung and Ghat. Walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River, we reach Phakding at 2,610 meters after a comfortable 3 to 4 hours of trekking.

Day 02: Phakding to Namche Bazaar The trail continues along the Dudh Koshi, crossing several suspension bridges including the famous Hillary Bridge. After entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, the route climbs steeply through forested terrain. The final ascent leads to Namche Bazaar at 3,440 meters, the vibrant heart of the Everest region, with possible first views of Mount Everest.

Day 03: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar This important acclimatization day helps the body adjust to altitude. A short hike to nearby villages such as Khumjung or Khunde offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The afternoon is spent exploring Namche Bazaar, known for its bakeries, markets, museums, and viewpoints.

Day 04: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche The trek follows a scenic ridge with continuous views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. After descending to Phunki Tenga for lunch, the trail climbs steadily through forest to Tengboche at 3,860 meters. The famous Tengboche Monastery is a spiritual highlight of the day.

Day 05: Tengboche to Dingboche Descending through rhododendron forests to Deboche, the trail crosses the Imja Khola and passes Pangboche, the oldest Sherpa settlement in the region. The landscape gradually becomes more alpine as we climb to Dingboche at 4,410 meters, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche A second acclimatization day is essential before heading higher. A hike to Nangkartshang Peak or the lower slopes of Chhukung Ri provides excellent views and supports altitude adaptation. Guides closely monitor health and oxygen levels throughout the day.

Day 07: Dingboche to Chhukung A short but important trek leads into the Imja Valley. The trail offers dramatic views of Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Reaching Chhukung at 4,730 meters, the team prepares for the first high pass crossing.

Day 08: Cross Kongma La Pass and Trek to Lobuche One of the most demanding days of the trek, the crossing of Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters begins early. The route involves rocky terrain and glacial sections. From the summit, sweeping views of Makalu, Ama Dablam, and the Khumbu Glacier unfold before descending to Lobuche.

Day 09: Lobuche to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp Following the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, the trek reaches Gorak Shep before continuing to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters. Standing at the base of the world’s highest mountain is a defining moment of the journey. The night is spent at Gorak Shep.

Day 10: Kala Patthar Sunrise and Trek to Dzongla An early morning ascent of Kala Patthar rewards trekkers with unforgettable sunrise views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. After descending, the route turns toward Dzongla, passing frozen lakes and rugged alpine terrain.

Day 11: Cross Cho La Pass and Trek to Thangnak The Cho La Pass crossing involves icy sections and a short glacier traverse. With careful guidance, the pass is crossed at 5,420 meters. The descent to Thangnak is steep but offers dramatic high-mountain scenery.

Day 12: Thangnak to Gokyo The trek crosses the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. The day ends at Gokyo, a beautiful settlement beside turquoise glacial lakes, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

Day 13: Gokyo Ri Climb and Gokyo Lakes Exploration An early climb to Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters provides panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The afternoon allows time to explore the higher Gokyo Lakes when conditions permit.

Day 14: Cross Renjo La Pass and Trek to Lumde A steady climb leads to Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters, offering one of the finest viewpoints of the Everest region. The descent passes through high pastures and quiet valleys before reaching Lumde.

Day 15: Lumde to Thame The trail follows the peaceful Bhote Koshi Valley, gradually descending to Thame at 3,800 meters. This historic village is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region and holds strong Sherpa cultural heritage.

Day 16: Thame to Namche Bazaar A comfortable trek brings the journey back to Namche Bazaar. The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy local cafés, and celebrate the successful completion of the Three Passes adventure.

Day 17: Namche Bazaar to Lukla The final trekking day retraces the route through Monjo and Phakding, crossing familiar suspension bridges. In Lukla, a farewell dinner marks the end of the trekking journey.

Day 18: Fly Back to Kathmandu A short scenic flight returns from Lukla to Kathmandu, concluding the Everest Three Passes Trek with lasting memories of one of the Himalayas’ greatest adventures.