Highlights
- A challenging and adventurous trek in the Himalayas
- Cross Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes
- Explore the popular Lukla and Namche Bazaar
- Hike to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar
- Discover the stunning six Gokyo Lakes
- Explore the untouched settlements such as Thame and Marlung
- Go on a side hike to Hotel Everest View and Nangkartshang Peak
- Hike to viewpoints such as Chhukkung Ri and Gokyo Ri
- See the daily lives and culture of Sherpas and other inhabitants of the Khumbu region
- Witness many different views of Mt. Everest
- Visit ancient monasteries along the trail
- Night stays in picturesque villages and experience mountain hospitality
- Enjoy diverse landscapes and many tall mountains such as Lhots, Nupts, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, Pumori, Makalu, Cho Oyu, etc
Overview
Cross Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes and explore Namche Bazaar, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Lakes in one trip during the Everest Three Passes trek. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage in Nepal and discover some of the tallest mountains in the world.
When we think about what could be the epitome of adventure and challenge in the Himalayas, the Everest Three Passes trek comes to the top of our list. It is a 19-day adventure, commitment, and challenge in the Khumbu region in Nepal.
If you have ever wished to explore more of the Khumbu region than the EBC trail, the Everest Three Passes trek could be a perfect choice for you. Note that it is a demanding trek, so you must be in good shape to do this trek.
Similarly, trekkers who have already done a few moderate treks in Nepal and are looking to upgrade to an advanced route will also find the 3 passes trek an ideal option.
On the Everest Three Passes trekking, you will explore the famous Lukla and Namche Bazaar. Likewise, hike to Chhukung Valley, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar. In addition to that, you will visit the Gokyo Lakes and pass by pristine settlements such as Thame and Marlung.
At the start of the trek, you will enjoy bustling surroundings. Meet with trekkers from all around the world and explore the narrow but lively streets of different villages. Once you leave the main EBC route, peace will embrace you.
The journey will slow down. You will become much more aware of your surroundings and enjoy each moment to the fullest. In the blink of an eye, mountains will begin to unfold one after another, creating remarkable scenery.
What is it like crossing the 3 high passes?
Crossing three high passes, Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, offers the ultimate adventure in the Himalayas. It is not easy to cross these passes. You will hike for around 8 to 9 hours on the days you cross the passes.
Long walking at high altitude allows you to experience a true Himalayan environment. The trail will be a mix of boulders, rocks, snow, and glaciers. Most trekkers who have crossed the three passes have compared it to climbing a 5,000-meter peak.
You will start climbing before the sun rises. By the time the sun rises, you will be at the top of the pass, relishing a spectacular sunrise along with a breathtaking mountain panorama.
A challenging hike presents you with an incredible view and boosts your confidence. You will feel stronger and untouchable after crossing each pass.
*You have to cross the pass before mid-morning to avoid strong winds.
Why do the Everest Three Passes trek instead of the Everest Base Camp trek?
The Everest Three Passes trek is an advanced trekking program. It is much more challenging than the Everest Base Camp trek and also takes longer to complete.
While the EBC trek remains a hallmark trek in the Himalayas, the Everest Three Passes trek is a daring adventure only suitable for fit and experienced trekkers.
We have shared some major differences between the Everest Three Passes trek and the EBC trek in the table below for clear information:
Trek route | Duration | Difficulty | Maximum altitude | Beginner-friendly | Mountain pass crossing |
Everest Three Passes trek | 19 days | Moderate/challenging | 5,545 m | No | Yes |
Everest Base Camp trek | 14 days | Strenuous | 5,545 m | Yes | No |
Everest Three Passes trek anti-clockwise or clockwise route, which is better?
- The clockwise route: Cross Renjo La Pass first, followed by Cho La Pass and Kongma La Pass
- The anti-clockwise route: Cross Kongma La Pass first, followed by Cho La Pass and Renjo La Pass
You can do the Everest Three Passes trek in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. The main difference in the route is the order in which you cross the pass.
Our Everest Three Passes trek itinerary follows an anti-clockwise route. It is the most used route to cross the three passes because trekkers get ample acclimatization opportunities.
On the clockwise route, you will cross the Renjo La Pass in just two days if trekking from Namche Bazaar. The high elevation gain is immediate, which may not be ideal for all trekkers.
What are the main attractions of the Everest Three Passes trek 19 days?
Below are some of the main attractions of the Everest Three Passes trek 19 days:
The thrilling Lukla flights:
Lukla connects the Khumbu region (home to Mt. Everest) with Kathmandu. It is a very special airport at 2,860 meters above sea level.
Not only that, but Lukla Airport is also small, with a runway of just 527 meters long. So, only small propeller aircraft and helicopters fly in and out of this airport.
It is not common to experience flying in and out of an airport with these conditions, so foreigners find it quite thrilling. Likewise, the aerial views of the eastern Himalayan mountains are also incredible during the Lukla flight.
Adventurous trek route:
The Everest Three Passes trail goes through forested hills, crossing many suspension bridges. As the trail ascends, you will come across steep slopes and narrow cliffsides.
On the way, you will pass by mountain villages and alpine meadows. The upper part of the trail includes traversing rocky trails, glaciers, and high mountain passes. It will be an adventurous journey traveling through different terrain, elevations, and climatic zones.
The natural abundance of Sagarmathan National Park:
During the first couple of days of the trek, you will be exploring the rich vegetation of the Khumbu region. Rhododendron, magnolia, and pine-covered hills, medicinal plants, bushes, terraced fields, and alpine meadows surround the trails.
Similarly, you will be exploring hills, rivers, and streams that further change to glaciers, peaks, and mountains. Along the way, you may see yaks, mules, and different species of birds.
Sherpa villages and interactions with them:
The Khumbu region is home to various Nepali communities, including the Sherpa, Rai, Limbu, Lama, and Bhotiya.
Tibetan Buddhism is the primary religion practiced by the local population. There are many stupas, monasteries, prayer flags, chortens, and prayer wheels all around the region.
All villages are unique and beautiful. You will rest, have meals, and mingle with the locals and fellow trekkers in these villages during the Everest Three Passes trek. Get to know the locals closely.
Acclimatization days:
Our Everest Three Passes trek itinerary has three acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo village.
These three rest days give you a break from constant walking and help you acclimate. You will also get to spend a long time in one village and interact with the locals.
- From Namche Bazaar, you will hike to Hotel Everest View.
- From Dingboche, you will hike to Nangkartshang Peak.
- From Gokyo village, you will hike to Gokyo Ri.
Exciting side hikes to Chhukung Ri, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Ri:
Chhukung Ri, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Ri are three viewpoints near Chhukung village, Gorak Shep, and Gokyo village, respectively.
You will hike to these viewpoints to acclimate and witness a gorgeous sunrise and mountain panorama.
These side hike routes are off the main trail, so it is like exploring the hidden corners of the region.
The many views of Mount Everest:
The Everest Three Passes trek takes you to some of the highest points in the Khumbu region, including the three mountain passes and several viewpoints.
You will see outstanding views of Mount Everest from these places, which will give you an excellent idea of how this giant mountain looks overall.
Is the Everest Three Passes trek suitable for you?
Unlike other treks in Nepal, you will spend a long time above 4,000 meters during the Everest Three Passes trek. So, adapting to high altitude is crucial.
Likewise, it is a lengthy trek, so you will hike a lot and stay almost disconnected from the rest of the world during the trek duration, especially when you are at the remote corners of the trail.
Can you handle it? Are you fit enough to walk uphill and downhill 6 hours a day? Are you ready to push yourself?
Please note that the Everest Three Passes trek 19 days is an advanced trekking program, which is only recommended to experienced trekkers. So, if you are a beginner trekker and planning to do the 3 passes trek, make sure to assess your fitness and prepare accordingly.
Overall, anyone who is planning to do the Everest Three Passes trek must be in good shape, health, and experienced.
Everest Three Passes trek cost and booking 2026
You can do the Everest Three Passes trek at just USD XXXX with us.
Our Everest Three Passes trek cost is inclusive of all major expenses during the trek, such as accommodation in Kathmandu and the mountain, breakfast in Kathmandu, three meals a day during the trek, guide, porter, trek permits, Lukla flight, and the Company's service charge.
You can also tailor the Everest Three Passes trek itinerary and services during the trip as per your budget and interests. To get the early bird price, book your Everest Three Passes trek 2026 departure now.
*Tips for guides and porters, travel insurance, personal expenses during the trek (charging, WiFi, hot showers), Nepal travel visa fee, and international flights to/from Kathmandu are not covered in our Everest Three Passes trek package.
*Kindly check our cost includes and excludes section below for more information.
Everest Three Passes trek with Mountain Life Treks
Mountain Life Treks was established by an expert mountain individual and runned by highly professional guides. Everest Three Passes trek with us means you will travel safely and get the finest service available along the route.
Our team ensures your safety during the trek. Another benefit of trekking with us is that you will get to learn a lot about the Everest region, the mountains, and the locals. Our journeys go beyond adventure and thrill. We will take you deep into a life-changing voyage.
Similarly, we also offer many complimentary services. Our Everest Three Passes trek cost is also fair. You can customize the Everest Three Passes trek itinerary, too. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
- Enjoy a very well-managed trek service
- Best Everest Three Passes trek price
- No hidden fees
- Hassle-free trip
- Airport pick-ups and drop-offs as per the itinerary
- Free duffel bags to use during the trek
- A highly experienced and trained team of guides and porters to accompany you
- 24/7 service
- Flexible itinerary
