Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most challenging, yet exciting treks in Nepal. It is perfect for those who would like to explore the Khumbu region, but want a bit more adventure than the Everest Base Camp Trek. In the Everest Three Passes Trek, not only do we make it to EBC and Kala Patthar, but we also cross three incredible mountain passes: Renjo La (5360m), Cho La (5368m) and Kongma La (5540m). The trail traverses the passes via Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp, while continuously being surrounded by the astounding alpine sceneries of snowy peaks, glaciers, and lakes. You will also be able to climb three majestic peaks: Gokyo Ri (5360m) Kala Patthar (5540m), and Chukkung Ri (5550m). Adventurers who are seeking a challenge will love this trek. It is a test of both fitness and technical trekking skills, which rewards you with a superb Himalayan experience.

Beginning the Everest Three Passes Trek from Lukla, the trail passes through Sherpa villages and agricultural fields above the Dudh Koshi River. Once you cross the suspension bridge, you reach to Phakding and from Jorsalle, Sagarmatha National Park begins. We stay in Namche Bazaar, often referred to as the gateway to the Everest region, as well as a charming tourism and trading hub. While in Namche Bazaar and other villages, we will explore the lifestyle of the Sherpa people – natives of the Everest region, known for their kind hospitality.

When we make it to Tengboche Monastery, the largest of the region, we are filled with energy that our environment and the people give us. Over the course of the trek, we stroll by two huge glaciers: Ngozumpa Glacier and Khumbu Glacier. Afterwards, the trail leads to Kongma La (5540m), the first and highest pass of the trek. The trail is ultra-steep and slippery, so we’ll strap on the crampons if need be. With every step, the ascent gets more difficult, but the constant beauty reminds us what it’s all for. The sharp descent leads us to Lobuche, well-prepared to reach Everest Base Camp the next day. Everest Base Camp is not the most scenic stop on the trek, but because of how legendary it is, we take the opportunity to check it out. Not to mention, the flag-tattered monuments make for a cool photo-op.

Next is Kala Patthar, arguably the best spot in all the land to see Mount Everest. The climb is not too dramatic, but the thin air takes its toll. Carving the contours of these grand mountains, we hike to the Chola Pass (5330m), regarded as the more technical among the three passes. On the way up, we trudge up the slippery glacier, which sometimes requires the use of crampons. The view from both sides of the pass is astonishing. The way down is a bit more treacherous, as we scramble down boulders and steep terrain. This strenuous day ends in Gokyo Village after walking across the Ngozumpa Glacier, which briefly tricks people into thinking they have teleported to the moon.

At Gokyo Ri, we get stellar views of the lakes, glaciers, icefalls, and stunning peaks - Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Lhotse Shar, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and others (that’s four of the six highest peaks in the world!). There are no words to describe the view at Gokyo Ri (5483m). It is truly one of the best mountain views in the world! Last, but not least is the Renjo La Pass (5360m), which offers a unique perspective of Gokyo Lakes and eye-popping Everest looming above and beyond.

From here, we descend to Thame and have some time to relax/meditate at the monastery. In Namche Bazaar celebrate with the comfort and convenience of this mountain super-village before flying out from Lukla.

Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather. During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. The Everest Three Passes Trek requires fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Accommodation

All our packages include accommodation at the cost. This accommodation is included in the set itinerary. While in Kathmandu, we provide a 2-3 Star hotel for you. During the trek, our guides will pick the best lodge for you to stay in based on their experience as well as room availability. All the accommodations will be on a twin-shared basis. In the mountain, the Shower and toilet will be on a shared basis. During high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group.

Food

Nepal has a wide variety of food and it is easy to cater to your needs. If you are a vegetarian/vegan, gluten or lactose-free, we are able to work around that if you let us know ahead of time. During your time in the hotel in Kathmandu, your breakfast is included. Lunch and dinner must be covered on your own. On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided. For teahouse treks, we can order typical Nepali food, continental, Italian, Tibetan, and Indian at teahouses. While camping, we will prepare the meals for you. After our trek, we will have a celebration/pre-departure traditional Nepali meal in Thamel.

Guide & Porters

A government-licensed guide will lead the trek. All our guides have tremendous experience on the trails and are passionate about the trekking industry. Our guides and porters are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one. If there is any worry during your trek, our guides will address it. Your safety is our number one priority. For groups of more than six people, there will be two guides. For teahouse treks, there will be one porter for every two trekkers. For camping treks, we will need more porters in order to carry the food, kitchen equipment, tents, etc.

Acclimatization/Fitness/Experience

As many of our treks lead us high into the Himalayas, it is necessary to let our bodies sufficiently get used to the altitude. Our treks have acclimatization days built into the itinerary. It is best to take it slow to prevent altitude sickness. The level of fitness necessary for our treks varies depending on the trek. On average, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day while on the trial. Generally, the treks can be done with an average level of fitness. More important than fitness or experience is one’s personal determination and positive attitude toward finishing and enjoying the trek.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend having travel insurance before going on a trek. We do our best to take care of you, but something can happen that is out of our control. In case of a medical emergency, leading to a helicopter evacuation, it is best to have insurance. You are unable to obtain medical insurance in Nepal and must do so in your home country. Be sure that your insurance covers accidents abroad and high in the mountains.

Best Time to Travel

The peak seasons for traveling in Nepal are during the Spring (March to May) and the Autumn (September to November). These times provide the best scenery and clearest skies, but of course, they are a little more crowded than the off-season. It is possible to trek during the Winter (December to February), but you will face cold temperatures. It is also possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), though the views will likely be covered by clouds and there is a high chance of rainfall.