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The Three Passes Trek is the ultimate Everest region trek | Brad Atwal
The Three Passes Trek is the ultimate Everest region trek  | Brad Atwal
Trekking towards the Renjo La | Brad Atwal
Trekking towards the Renjo La  | Brad Atwal
Eco-Comfort Camp at Ghat | Lachlan Gardiner
Eco-Comfort Camp at Ghat  | Lachlan Gardiner
Trekking into Dingboche | Brad Atwal
Trekking into Dingboche  | Brad Atwal
A night at Kongma La camp breaks up the pass crossing | Brad Atwal
A night at Kongma La camp breaks up the pass crossing  | Brad Atwal
Trekking towards Dingboche | Brad Atwal
Trekking towards Dingboche  | Brad Atwal
View of Ama Dablam from behind at our camp | Brad Atwal
View of Ama Dablam from behind at our camp  | Brad Atwal
Above Kyangjuma Eco-Comfort Camp | Brad Atwal
Above Kyangjuma Eco-Comfort Camp  | Brad Atwal
Pumori poking behind trekkers on the Everest Three Passes Trek, Nepal | Brad Atwal
Pumori poking behind trekkers on the Everest Three Passes Trek, Nepal  | Brad Atwal
Connect with the mountains and stars at our exclusive eco-comfort camps. | Dan Cassar
Connect with the mountains and stars at our exclusive eco-comfort camps.  | Dan Cassar
View rom Renjo La | Brad Atwal
View rom Renjo La  | Brad Atwal
Everest Three Passes Trek, Nepal | Brad Atwal
Everest Three Passes Trek, Nepal  | Brad Atwal
On Sale

Everest Three Passes Trek

The classic three passes trek to the best vantage points in the region

22 Days from

$3676 USD

$3870 USD
Trip Code: EHP
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Everest High Passes Hotel only Single supplement
$140 USD
Single Supplement Tent Only (not available at Lobuche or Gorak Shep during peak periods)
$280 USD
Single Supplement (not available at Lobuche or Gorak Shep during peak periods)
$420 USD

Duration

  • 22 Days

Activities

  • 18 day Trek

Style

  • In Comfort Adventures  

Accommodation

  • 3 nights Hotel
  • 10 nights Lodge
  • 7 nights Eco-Comfort Camps
  • 1 nights Wilderness Camping

Meals

Valued at USD$950

  • 19 Dinners
  • 19 Lunches
  • 21 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

7 / 10

Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

27kg of CO2-e PP per day

(563kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Cross the three spectacular Himalayan passes Kongma La Cho La and Renjo La, each over 5000m (16,404ft).
  • Visit Everest Base Camp and climb Kala Pattar and Gokyo Ri for outstanding mountain views
  • Experience authentic Sherpa culture in villages including Namche Bazaar
  • Visit the beautifully located Thyangboche Monastery in the heart of the Khumbu
  • Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan scenery on the flight between Kathmandu and Lukla

Overview

The Everest Three Passes Trek offers a comprehensive and challenging journey through the heart of the Khumbu, designed for experienced trekkers seeking the ultimate Himalayan adventure. This demanding circuit crosses three of the region’s most spectacular high passes Kongma La (5535m / 18,159ft), Cho La (5420m / 17,782ft) and Renjo La (5360m / 17,585ft) each offering extraordinary mountain panoramas without the need for technical climbing.

Beginning in Kathmandu, the journey continues with a scenic mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From here the trail winds through traditional Sherpa villages and forested valleys to the vibrant mountain hub of Namche Bazaar, where we take time to acclimatise while exploring the cultural heart of the Khumbu.

The trek then ventures deeper into the high Himalaya, crossing Kongma La before reaching the legendary Everest Base Camp (5360m / 17,585ft) and ascending Kala Pattar (5545m / 18,192ft) for classic close-up views of Mount Everest and the surrounding giants of the Himalaya.

Continuing westward, the route traverses the glacier beneath the spectacular Cho La Pass, linking the Everest Base Camp trail with the stunning Gokyo Valley. Here we explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5483m / 17,988ft), widely regarded as one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region.

The final pass, Renjo La, provides sweeping views towards Everest and into Tibet before the trail descends through the remote upper Bhote Kosi valley and returns to Lukla.

Accommodation during the trek is a combination of hotel, mountain lodges and our exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps, offering a comfortable base in remote mountain settings. With a carefully designed itinerary, experienced guides and well supported logistics, the Everest Three Passes Trek delivers one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking experiences in the Himalaya.

Itinerary

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You will be met at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to the Radisson Hotel in a private vehicle. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax after your journey or explore the surrounding area at your own pace. A pre trek briefing will be held at approximately 4:30–5:00pm, where your guide will outline the journey ahead and organise the distribution of your trekking kit including your kit bag, sleeping bag and down or fibrefill jacket. This evening we gather for a welcome group dinner, providing a great opportunity to meet your fellow travellers before the adventure begins. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: Nil

Depending on the season, today is either a free day in Kathmandu or a drive to Ramechhap in preparation for your flight to Lukla. If remaining in Kathmandu, the day is at leisure and you may wish to explore the city’s historic temples, markets and UNESCO World Heritage sites, or simply relax before the trek begins. During the peak trekking seasons, flights to Lukla may operate from Manthali Airport in Ramechhap. If this applies to your departure, we will travel by road to Ramechhap today, a journey of approximately 5 hours through rural countryside, positioning us for an early morning flight the following day. Your leader will confirm flight arrangements and timings during the pre trek briefing. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu or Eco-Comfort Camp, Ramechhap Note: Flights to and from Lukla may operate from Manthali Airport, Ramechhap during the spring and autumn trekking seasons. This is determined by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and is subject to change.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we transfer to the airport for the spectacular mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The airstrip was originally constructed by Sir Edmund Hillary and his team to support the establishment of schools and hospitals for Sherpa communities. The flight offers impressive views of the eastern Himalaya and, on arrival, we meet our trekking crew before beginning our walk. The trail descends gently towards the Dudh Kosi River, whose name means “milk river” due to the pale glacial waters flowing down from the high Himalaya. Following a broad and well defined trail, we pass small Sherpa villages, fields of potatoes and buckwheat, and colourful stands of dahlia trees. After a short and easy walk we reach Ghat, where we spend our first night in the Everest region. Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp, Ghat

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s walk follows the Dudh Kosi Valley, gradually gaining altitude as we pass through a mix of pine forest and cultivated terraces where local farmers grow a variety of crops. Along the trail we encounter donkeys, yaks and dzopkyo (a yak–cow crossbreed) transporting goods and trekking equipment between villages. Shortly after leaving camp we cross the Kusum Khola, a tributary of the Dudh Kosi. From here we catch our first views of Kusum Kanguru (6,369 m / 20,896 ft) to the east. Further along the trail, across the valley to the northwest, the peaks of Nupla (5,885 m / 19,308 ft) and Kongde Ri (6,093 m / 19,990 ft) rise above forested ridges. At another bend in the trail, the impressive pyramid of Thamserku (6,808 m / 22,336 ft) towers dramatically above the valley. Today we also encounter our first Mani walls, sacred stone structures engraved with the Buddhist mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum”, meaning “Hail to the jewel in the lotus.” According to local tradition, these walls and nearby chortens should always be passed on the left side. By afternoon we reach our private eco-camp above Monjo, set in a peaceful location overlooking the valley. Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp Monjo

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we cross the turquoise waters of the Dudh Kosi and pass through the entrance gates of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area established to help protect the fragile Himalayan environment. The park was created in part to reduce the use of firewood in the region. Self-contained trekking groups use kerosene or gas for cooking, a practice we follow throughout Nepal. While many teahouses are encouraged to use kerosene, yak dung or electricity, firewood is still widely used, which continues to place pressure on local forests. Following the river valley, we walk through pine forest to the confluence of the Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi rivers, where we cross a spectacular high suspension bridge before beginning the steep ascent to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of Nepal. The climb is steady but rewarding, and from a vantage point along the trail we gain our first distant view of Mt Everest. The trail then continues to climb gradually before rounding the hillside to reveal Namche Bazaar, a prosperous mountain village set in a natural amphitheatre opposite the impressive peak of Kongde Ri (6,093 m / 19,990 ft). After lunch there may be time to explore the bustling marketplace, browse Tibetan trader stalls or visit local Sherpa shops. Accommodation: Lodge, Namche Bazaar

Meals: B,L,D

Our trek begins with a steady climb from Namche Bazaar to Syangboche airstrip, one of the highest airstrips in the world. From here we follow the ridgeline towards the Everest View Hotel, where we are rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks including Everest (8,848 m / 29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Thamserku (6,808 m / 22,336 ft), Khangtega (6,782 m / 22,251 ft) and the striking Ama Dablam (6,812 m / 22,349 ft). After a short break we continue along the scenic trail to the Sherpa village of Khumjung, where we visit Sir Edmund Hillary’s famous “Schoolhouse in the Clouds.” Built in 1961 with support from Sir Edmund Hillary and the Himalayan Trust, it was the first school established in the Khumbu region. Originally opening with just two classrooms, the school has since expanded and now serves more than 350 students from surrounding villages. From Khumjung we descend slightly and follow the trail for approximately 25 minutes to our exclusive Eco-Comfort Camp at Kyangjuma, set in a peaceful location with spectacular views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks. For those feeling the early effects of altitude, there is the option of a shorter acclimatisation walk of around two hours directly from Namche Bazaar to Kyangjuma. Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp, Kyangjuma

Meals: B,L,D

Today we descend through beautiful forests of rhododendron, Himalayan blue pine and birch to the small settlement of Phungi Tenga beside the Dudh Kosi River. From here we cross the river and begin the steady climb to Tengboche Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in the Khumbu region. The monastery follows the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and has stood here for over a century. It has long been visited by trekkers and expedition members seeking blessings from the resident lama before continuing their journeys into the high Himalaya. The monastery is also renowned for its spectacular setting, with views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. From Tengboche we descend through forest to cross the Imja Khola before following a wide, open trail up the valley to the Sherpa village of Pangboche, one of the oldest settlements in the region and located beneath the dramatic south face of Ama Dablam (6,812 m / 22,349 ft). Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp, Pangboche

Meals: B,L,D

Today we gradually ascend through the village of Pangboche, passing cultivated potato fields and the historic Pangboche Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu region. As we continue along the trail towards the upper Imja Valley, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic with expansive views of the surrounding peaks, including the immense south face of Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft). We are now well above the treeline and the terrain changes to open alpine meadows dotted with hardy shrubs. The trail descends slightly to cross the Pheriche Khola, before climbing gently across a wide meadow towards Dingboche. Set in a broad valley beneath the impressive peak of Ama Dablam (6,812 m / 22,349 ft), Dingboche is surrounded by stone-walled fields designed to protect crops from the strong mountain winds. The village offers spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan giants. Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp, Dingboche

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an important rest and acclimatisation day to help our bodies adjust to the increasing altitude. There is the option to take a rewarding hike to the ridge overlooking Dingboche or continue further up the valley towards Chhukung village, gaining additional altitude before returning to camp. From the ridge and surrounding slopes there are magnificent views of Nuptse (7,861 m / 25,791 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Chhukung Peak (5,546 m / 18,196 ft) and Imja Tse (6,189 m / 20,305 ft). The dramatic valley is framed by towering cliffs and vast glaciers descending from the surrounding peaks, creating one of the most impressive alpine landscapes in the Khumbu. This acclimatisation day is an important preparation before we continue higher into the Himalaya and approach our first high pass crossing, Kongma La (5,300 m / 17,388 ft). Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp, Dingboche

Meals: B,L,D

Today we trek towards the base of Kongma La, one of the high passes linking the upper Khumbu valleys. The walk begins with a gentle stroll along the broad valley before gradually climbing towards the rugged landscape beneath the pass. The trail then ascends more steeply into a dramatic valley between Pokalde Peak (5,806 m / 19,049 ft) and the slopes leading towards Chhukung. As we gain altitude the terrain becomes increasingly alpine, with rocky slopes and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. We establish camp below the pass in preparation for an early start the following morning, when we will cross Kongma La (5,300 m / 17,388 ft). Accommodation: Wilderness camp, Kongma La Base Camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today is one of the most demanding and rewarding days of the trek as we cross Kongma La, the highest of the three passes in the upper Khumbu. The trail climbs steadily through a rugged alpine landscape beneath the ridges extending from Nuptse (7,861 m / 25,791 ft) as we make our ascent to the pass. From the top of Kongma La (5,500 m / 18,045 ft) we are rewarded with expansive views across the surrounding Himalayan peaks and glaciers. The descent from the pass is steep as we make our way down towards the Khumbu Glacier. We then cross the glacier's rocky moraine before climbing slightly to reach the meadow near the Italian Pyramid Research Station, a high-altitude scientific research facility. From here the trail continues to the small settlement of Lobuche, where we spend the night surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery including views of Pumori (7,161 m / 23,494 ft) and Nuptse. The ridge above the village offers particularly beautiful sunset views across the Khumbu Glacier. The difficulty of today’s trek should not be underestimated, particularly if snow is present, as the glacier crossing towards the end of the day can be demanding. Accommodation: Lodge, Lobuche Please note that single supplements cannot be guaranteed at Lobuche during peak trekking periods.

Meals: B,L,D

Today we trek across rocky moraine towards the small settlement of Gorak Shep, set high among the glaciers and peaks of the upper Khumbu. Surrounded by towering mountains including Pumori (7,145 m / 23,441 ft), Lingtren (6,697 m / 21,972 ft), Nuptse (7,745 m / 25,410 ft) and Everest (8,848 m / 29,032 ft), the setting is truly spectacular. In the afternoon there is the option to hike to Kala Pattar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), meaning “black rock.” From this famous viewpoint we enjoy outstanding views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Accommodation in Gorak Shep is limited and camping is not permitted, so we stay in the best available local lodges. Please note that facilities here are basic due to the remote high-altitude location. Accommodation: Lodge, Gorak Shep Single supplements cannot be guaranteed at Gorak Shep during peak trekking periods.

Meals: B,L,D

We start early to make the most of the clear morning conditions and to avoid the crowds gathering at Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft). The trail follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, winding across rocky moraine with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and icefalls. After reaching Everest Base Camp, we return to Gorak Shep for lunch before beginning the descent down the valley to Lobuche, where we spend the night. Accommodation: Lodge, Lobuche

Meals: B,L,D

Early mornings in the Himalaya often provide the clearest mountain views. Today we descend from Lobuche and follow the trail towards Dzongla, enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding peaks along the way. Our camp is set beneath the dramatic north face of Cholatse (6,440 m / 21,129 ft), with excellent views of Ama Dablam (6,812 m / 22,349 ft) and the surrounding high Himalayan landscape. The setting offers a rewarding sense of achievement after our time in the Everest region. Accommodation: Eco-Comfort Camp, Dzongla

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross Cho La, leaving the Everest watershed and entering that of Cho Oyu (8,188 m / 26,864 ft), the sixth highest mountain in the world. The ascent to the pass is challenging, involving a steep climb over rocky boulders followed by a traverse across the snow-covered glacier that caps the pass. From the summit of Cho La (5,420 m / 17,782 ft) we enjoy impressive views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers before descending steeply towards the Gokyo Valley, a spectacular landscape of turquoise lakes and immense glaciers. The trail zigzags down rocky slopes before levelling out across glacial moraine. We continue along the valley to Thagnak, a small Sherpa settlement located near the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. Accommodation: Lodge, Thagnak

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and follow the lateral moraine into the beautiful Gokyo Valley, passing a series of turquoise alpine lakes often visited by migratory waterfowl. The trail gradually ascends to the small village of Gokyo, set beside the shores of one of the region’s most scenic lakes. This is a relatively easy day. Those with energy may choose to hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,400 m / 17,717 ft) for sunset views over the surrounding peaks. Alternatively, the climb can be made early the following morning. Accommodation: Lodge, Gokyo

Meals: B,L,D

An early start offers the best opportunity to appreciate the scale of the surrounding Himalaya. Today there is the option to climb Gokyo Ri (5,483 m / 17,989 ft) or hike along the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, to Ngozumba Tsho, known locally as the Fifth Lake. Both options offer outstanding panoramic views of the region’s highest peaks including Cho Oyu (8,153 m / 26,749 ft), Everest (8,848 m / 29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,501 m / 27,890 ft), Makalu (8,475 m / 27,805 ft) and many surrounding Himalayan giants. The Fifth Lake is a quieter and less-visited viewpoint overlooking the western cwm of Everest, while Gokyo Ri provides the classic view of turquoise Gokyo Lakes framed by snow-covered peaks. Your guide will discuss both options with the group before deciding the best plan for the day. Accommodation: Lodge, Gokyo

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross Renjo La, one of the most scenic passes in the Everest region. The ascent to the pass is steady, rewarding us with magnificent views across the Himalaya including Everest (8,848 m / 29,032 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft) and Makalu (8,485 m / 27,838 ft). From the pass we descend into a remote northern valley where the landscape gradually takes on the character of the Tibetan plateau beyond the border. This valley was once part of an ancient trading route used by Tibetan traders travelling south across the Nangpa La into the Khumbu. We continue down the valley to the small settlement of Lungden. Accommodation: Lodge, Lungden

Meals: B,L,D

Today we head south towards Namche Bazaar, marking the final stages of our trek. The trail descends through alpine terrain before passing through the village of Thame, following an ancient trade route that once connected the Khumbu with Tibet. Along the way we cross several suspension bridges and pass a large rock face featuring a painting of Milarepa, the revered Tibetan yogi, poet and scholar. The trail continues through small villages and rhododendron forests before arriving back at the bustling Sherpa hub of Namche Bazaar, where we celebrate the successful completion of our high Himalayan adventure. Accommodation: Lodge, Namche Bazaar

Meals: B,L,D

Retracing our steps down the valley, we pass through Sherpa villages and forests of pine and rhododendron as we follow the Dudh Kosi back towards Lukla. The trail includes several suspension bridge crossings before the final gentle climb to the village. Arriving in Lukla marks the completion of our trekking journey in the Everest region. Our final evening is a chance to celebrate a rewarding adventure and thank the trekking crew, especially the porters who will return to their home villages from here. Accommodation: Lodge, Lukla

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we transfer to Lukla Airport for the spectacular mountain flight back to Kathmandu. The short flight offers memorable views of the Himalayan range as we leave the Everest region behind. Depending on seasonal flight operations, we either fly directly to Kathmandu (approx. 30–35 minutes) or fly to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap (approx. 20 minutes) followed by a scenic drive to Kathmandu (approx. 4–5 hours). Upon arrival in Kathmandu you will be transferred to the Radisson Hotel, where the remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy the hotel facilities, or explore the city. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: B

After breakfast the trip concludes unless further arrangements have been made. If you are departing today, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

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What's included?

Included

  • Return flights to and from Lukla
  • All meals during the trek: 21 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 19 dinners
  • World Expeditions trek pack including sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket and sleeping bag liner (valued at US$500)
  • Good quality 4 star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation in private Eco-Comfort Camps and handpicked eco lodges during the trek
  • Private air-conditioned transportation where required
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and departing on Day 22, or with pre/post-tour hotel booking at the Radisson through World Expeditions
  • Extra baggage allowance on Lukla flights (total 20kg / 44lb)
  • Expert bilingual local guides trained in wilderness first aid
  • Use of comprehensive group medical kit
  • Portable Altitude Chamber for treks above 4000m / 13,120ft
  • Ethical porter support including fair wages, insurance, proper equipment and responsible load limits
  • Daily supply of safe treated drinking water to reduce single-use plastic waste
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls and laundry
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Any items not listed as included

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