Everest Three Passes Trek – 17 Days | HGI Nepal

17 Days Itinerary

Everest Three Passes Trek

Complete the ultimate Khumbu circuit by crossing Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m) and Kongma La (5,535 m). Visit the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) on a remote high-altitude journey beneath Everest, Lhotse and Cho Oyu.

17 DaysMax 5,545 mChallengingTeahouse Stay

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Trip Facts

CountryNepal

Duration17 Days

DifficultyChallenging

ActivityTrekking / Hiking

Max. Altitude5,545 m / 18,192 ft

Best SeasonMar–May, Sep–Nov

AccommodationTeahouse & Hotel

MealsFull Board on Trek

Start / EndKathmandu

Everest Three Passes Overview & Highlights

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most demanding and rewarding trekking journeys in the Himalaya. This 17-day itinerary begins and ends in Kathmandu and links the three main valleys of the Khumbu region by crossing Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m) and Kongma La (5,535 m).

The route begins with a flight to Lukla and an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar before turning west to Thame and the Gokyo valley. After crossing Renjo La you reach the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, with views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu from Gokyo Ri.

The trek then crosses Cho La, a glaciated pass, and joins the classic Everest Base Camp trail via Dzongla and Lobuche. You visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and climb Kala Patthar (5,545 m) before crossing Kongma La to Chhukung.

The final days descend through Tengboche, Namche Bazaar and Lukla for the flight back to Kathmandu. The itinerary is long and strenuous, so good fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience are strongly recommended.

Trek Highlights

Cross three high passes: Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La
Visit the turquoise Gokyo Lakes
Views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu from Gokyo Ri
Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Sunrise views of Everest from Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
Namche Bazaar, Thame and Tengboche Monastery
Quieter trails through remote Sherpa valleys
Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Everest Three Passes Detailed Itinerary

17-Day Short Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu → Lukla (Flight) → Phakding

Phakding · 2,610 m

Day 2

Phakding → Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar · 3,440 m

Day 3

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar · 3,440 m

Day 4

Namche Bazaar → Thame

Thame · 3,800 m

Day 5

Thame → Lungden

Lungden · 4,380 m

Day 6

Lungden → Renjo La → Gokyo

Gokyo · 4,790 m

Day 7

Rest Day in Gokyo (Gokyo Ri)

Gokyo · 4,790 m

Day 8

Gokyo → Thangnak

Thangnak · 4,700 m

Day 9

Thangnak → Cho La → Dzongla

Dzongla · 4,830 m

Day 10

Dzongla → Lobuche → Gorak Shep

Gorak Shep · 5,164 m

Day 11

Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp → Gorak Shep

Gorak Shep · 5,164 m

Day 12

Kala Patthar → Lobuche

Lobuche · 4,940 m

Day 13

Lobuche → Kongma La → Chhukung

Chhukung · 4,730 m

Day 14

Chhukung → Tengboche

Tengboche · 3,860 m

Day 15

Tengboche → Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar · 3,440 m

Day 16

Namche Bazaar → Lukla

Lukla · 2,860 m

Day 17

Lukla → Kathmandu (Flight)

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Take a short scenic flight to Lukla with views of the Himalaya. Meet your crew and follow a gentle trail along the Dudh Koshi river to Phakding.

Max. altitudePhakding (2,610 m)
Duration35 min flight + 3–4 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 2

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Cross several suspension bridges, enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb steadily to Namche Bazaar. On a clear day you may see your first views of Everest.

Max. altitudeNamche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 3

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Spend the day acclimatizing and exploring Namche Bazaar. Take an optional hike to the Everest View Hotel or visit the local museum and market.

Max. altitudeNamche Bazaar (3,440 m)
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 4

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame

Leave the main Everest trail and follow the Bhote Koshi valley to Thame, a traditional Sherpa village with a monastery and views of the surrounding peaks.

Max. altitudeThame (3,800 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 5

Trek from Thame to Lungden

Continue up the quiet valley through Marlung and Taranga, with the high peaks near the Tibetan border coming into view, to the small settlement of Lungden.

Max. altitudeLungden (4,380 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 6

Cross Renjo La Pass to Gokyo

Start early for the climb to Renjo La (5,360 m), with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. Descend to Gokyo beside the turquoise lakes.

Max. altitudeRenjo La (5,360 m)
Duration7–8 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 7

Rest Day in Gokyo

Rest and acclimatize in Gokyo. Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for one of the finest views in the Himalaya, or walk along the lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier.

Max. altitudeGokyo (4,790 m)
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 8

Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak

Follow the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine to Thangnak, at the foot of the approach to Cho La. Rest and prepare for the next pass.

Max. altitudeThangnak (4,700 m)
Duration3–4 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 9

Cross Cho La Pass to Dzongla

Start before dawn and climb to Cho La (5,420 m), crossing rocky and sometimes icy terrain. Descend carefully to Dzongla beneath Cholatse and Arakam Tse.

Max. altitudeCho La (5,420 m)
Duration7–9 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 10

Trek from Dzongla to Gorak Shep

Join the main Everest Base Camp trail at Lobuche and continue along the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp.

Max. altitudeGorak Shep (5,164 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 11

Trek to Everest Base Camp and Return to Gorak Shep

Walk along the glacier moraine to Everest Base Camp, with views of the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

Max. altitudeEverest Base Camp (5,364 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 12

Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Lobuche

Rise early for the climb to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for sunrise views of Everest, Nuptse and Pumori. Return to Gorak Shep for breakfast and descend to Lobuche.

Max. altitudeKala Patthar (5,545 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 13

Cross Kongma La Pass to Chhukung

Climb to Kongma La (5,535 m), the highest of the three passes, with views of Nuptse, Lhotse and Island Peak. Descend steeply to Chhukung in the Imja valley.

Max. altitudeKongma La (5,535 m)
Duration8–9 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 14

Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche

Descend the Imja valley through Dingboche and Pangboche to Tengboche, home to the largest monastery in the Khumbu with views of Ama Dablam.

Max. altitudeTengboche (3,860 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 15

Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar

Descend through rhododendron forest and cross the Dudh Koshi river before climbing to Namche Bazaar, enjoying easier walking and thicker air.

Max. altitudeNamche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Duration5–6 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 16

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Follow the Dudh Koshi river back to Lukla, crossing suspension bridges and passing Sherpa villages. Celebrate the completion of the trek with your crew.

Max. altitudeLukla (2,860 m)
Duration6–7 hrs trek
OvernightTeahouse

DAY 17

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Take the early morning flight to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore.

Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
Duration35 min flight
Trip endsDeparture or extension

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather, snow conditions on the passes, flight schedules, health or other factors beyond our control. Flights to and from Lukla are often delayed by weather, and in busy seasons they may operate from Ramechhap airport. We recommend keeping two or three additional days available.

Everest Three Passes Trek Route Map

Everest Three Passes Trek map showing the route over Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La via Gokyo, Everest Base Camp and Chhukung

Route: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding – Namche Bazaar – Thame – Lungden – Renjo La – Gokyo – Thangnak – Cho La – Dzongla – Gorak Shep – Everest Base Camp – Kala Patthar – Lobuche – Kongma La – Chhukung – Tengboche – Namche Bazaar – Lukla – Kathmandu.

Elevation Profile

The trek gains altitude gradually through Namche Bazaar and Thame before crossing Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m) and Kongma La (5,535 m). The highest point is Kala Patthar (5,545 m) on Day 12, and the route then descends to Lukla.

Highest Point5,545 mKala Patthar, Day 12

Three Passes5,360 / 5,420 / 5,535 mRenjo La, Cho La, Kongma La

AcclimatizationDays 3 and 7Namche Bazaar and Gokyo

Main altitude point each day in metres, Day 1 to Day 17.

Trek Difficulty

The Everest Three Passes Trek is a very demanding high-altitude trek. Expect 5–9 hours of walking on trekking days, long ascents and descents, cold conditions and simple teahouses. Cho La involves glacial terrain and can be icy, and Kongma La is a long, steep day. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended.

Physical Effort

Altitude

Technical Difficulty

Comfort Level

Scale 1 to 5. Ratings are guidance and depend on fitness and weather.

Best Season

Spring

March–May. Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons and good mountain views.

Autumn

September–November. Clear skies, excellent mountain views and favourable trekking conditions.

Summer

June–August. Monsoon rain and cloudy conditions affect views, flights and the passes.

Winter

December–February. Very cold conditions and heavy snow, which can close the high passes.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

Teahouse accommodation during the trek
Twin-sharing rooms with basic beds
Shared bathrooms in many locations
Hot showers may cost extra
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu is not included unless specified

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
Dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs and porridge
Tea and coffee
Boiled or purified drinking water

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Vegan meals can be arranged at teahouses. Please inform us when booking.

Gluten Free

Gluten-free meal options may be available. Bring specialist products if required.

Packing List

General

Four-season sleeping bag
Sleeping bag liner
Down jacket
30–40 L daypack

Head & Upper Body

Sun hat or cap
Warm beanie
Neck gaiter
Headlamp
Sunglasses

Torso

Thermal base layer
Trekking shirts
Fleece jacket
Waterproof shell

Lower Body

Thermal base layer
Trekking trousers
Comfortable trousers
Waterproof shell trousers

Hands & Feet

Liner and insulated gloves
Warm hiking socks
Waterproof trekking boots
Casual shoes or sandals

First Aid

Personal medication
Sunscreen and lip balm
Blister plasters
Throat lozenges

Essentials

Passport and photocopies
Reusable water bottle
Water purification tablets
Toiletries and towel
Trekking poles
Energy snacks

Optional

Power bank
Camera or phone
Book or cards
Binoculars
Microspikes or crampons if conditions require

Safety & Altitude

This trek crosses three passes above 5,300 m, making altitude sickness a real risk. The itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo. Our guides monitor trekkers and adjust the pace according to conditions.

Ascend gradually and follow acclimatization advice
Stay hydrated throughout the trek
Report headache, nausea or dizziness immediately
Descend if symptoms worsen
Guides carry a first aid kit
Insurance must cover trekking to 6,000 m and helicopter evacuation

Everest Three Passes Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

Kathmandu – Lukla (flight)
Lukla – Kathmandu (flight)
Airport transfers in Kathmandu

Meals & Accommodation

Full-board meals and accommodation during the trek
Tea and coffee
Drinking water as specified in package

Guide & Staff

Professional licensed trekking guide
Porter service
Guide and porter wages
Guide and porter insurance

Permits & Taxes

Sagarmatha National Park permit
Khumbu local area entry permit
Government and local taxes

Safety

First aid kit

Not Included

Hotels in Kathmandu
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Personal expenses
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
International airfare
Extra nights due to delays
Tips and gratuities
Personal trekking gear
Hot showers and device charging
Additional snacks and beverages
Optional sightseeing
Medical and emergency expenses
Nepal entry visa fees

Trekking with Children

Children under 10 may qualify for exemption from certain park or local entry fees, subject to applicable regulations. The Everest Three Passes Trek is very strenuous and crosses three passes above 5,300 m, so it is not recommended for children. Please contact us to discuss suitable alternatives.

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

Within 7 Days

Cancel within 7 days of booking and receive a 25% refund.

After 7 Days

Cancellations after 7 days are not refundable.

Last-Minute

Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Full payment: If you have paid the full amount, you receive 25% of the total payment back when cancelling within the refund window.

Trek Gallery

Trekkers on the Everest Three Passes Trek

Mountain scenery on the Everest Three Passes Trek

High pass scenery on the Everest Three Passes Trek

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Experienced, first-aid-trained and English-speaking guides.

Clear Pricing

Permits, transport, meals and staff costs are explained upfront.

Safety First

Flexible pacing and emergency evacuation coordination.

Fair Staff Treatment

Fair wages and insurance for guides and porters.

Private Treks

Private and small-group departures available.

Local Support

Our Kathmandu team is available before and during your trip.

Customer Reviews

See what trekkers say about HGI Nepal on Google.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 10 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Montse Morón  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. HGI organise our trip to Tibet from Nepal. They arranged all permits and everything to get all facilities in our tour. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. We recommend their services, they are very professional and caring! Thanks Jeevan
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Matt  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I hiked the everest base camp trek with Laxmi, not only was the journey an amazing experience but the kindness and professionalism shown was outstanding. His knowledge and experience truly made the trek more enjoyable and his skill in nepali card games posed quite a challenge for me. Highly recommend
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Campbell Clan  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The crew at HGI are exceptional.  Really careful planning and communication. Everything is explained,  the guides are experienced and totally trustworthy. The trek was awesome,  and the friendly attention to detail meant everything went smoothly.  If you want a personalised trip, where friends are made,  make a great decision and go with HGI.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Pavel Čadek  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good guide and fast solution in case of emergency!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Liam Perkins  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing experience on our trek organised by HGI. They were extremely professional and took care of everything from the start. The stand out of the whole trip was definitely our Guide Laxmi and assistant guide Aasish. Laxmi was extremely good at his job, he always made sure we were comfortable and safe. He was extremely knoweldgable and shared his knowledge of the environment and different cultures we encountered along the way.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Walker  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our group went around Manaslu with Laxmi and Aasish and couldn't be happier with the service provided by HGI.  Laxmi was very professional, knowledgeable and very skilled at card games.  The team at HGI really went above and beyond our expectations at every point in the trip.  Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Josep (Nepal)  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. One of the most experienced Trekking Companies in Nepal working since the 80's Staff are the best,friendly and they know what has to be done while in mountains. If you are looking for serious people they are the best option for your Hiking routes in Nepal.
  
 
  
  
 
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Everest Three Passes FAQs

General

How many days does the Everest Three Passes trek take?

The itinerary takes 17 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including flights to and from Lukla, two acclimatization days and the crossing of three passes.

How high are the three passes?

Renjo La reaches 5,360 metres, Cho La 5,420 metres and Kongma La 5,535 metres. Kala Patthar at 5,545 metres (18,192 feet) is the highest point of the trek.

Do I need a guide or porter?

We recommend trekking with a licensed guide and can arrange porter services. Current permit and guide requirements should be confirmed before departure.

Difficulty & Fitness

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended. Good fitness and preparation are important for the long walking days and the high passes.

How difficult is the Everest Three Passes trek?

The trek is very challenging due to altitude, cold weather, glacial terrain and long walking days. It does not require technical climbing, but microspikes may be needed on Cho La.

Weather & Best Season

What is the best time to trek?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for stable conditions and mountain views.

Arrival & Visa

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, subject to current Nepal immigration rules and eligibility.

Cost & Permits

How much does the trek cost?

The price depends on group size, travel dates and selected services. Contact HGI Nepal for a personalised quotation.

What permits are required?

A Sagarmatha National Park permit and a Khumbu local area permit are required, and current regulations should be confirmed before departure.

Accommodation & Food

What accommodation is available?

Teahouses are used during the trek, with hotel accommodation in Kathmandu according to the package arrangement.

What food is available?

Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs, porridge and some Western dishes.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

Many teahouses offer charging and Wi-Fi for additional fees, although services may be limited at higher elevations.

Health & Safety

What is the risk of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,000 metres. Follow acclimatization guidance and report symptoms to your guide immediately.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy should cover trekking to at least 6,000 metres and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What if a pass is closed?

Your guide will assess weather and trail conditions. If a pass is unsafe, the crossing may be delayed or the route adjusted, for example by returning via the main Everest Base Camp trail.

How to Book

Fill in the Booking Form
Submit your preferred dates, group size and travel details.
We Get in Touch
Our team will discuss your trip and answer your questions.
Confirm and Pay the Deposit
Once the itinerary and price are confirmed, pay the deposit to secure your trip.
Pre-Trip Briefing
Meet your guide in Kathmandu and review the plan and equipment.

Everest Three Passes Trek

Trip Facts

Everest Three Passes Overview & Highlights

Trek Highlights

Everest Three Passes Detailed Itinerary

17-Day Short Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame

Trek from Thame to Lungden

Cross Renjo La Pass to Gokyo

Rest Day in Gokyo

Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak

Cross Cho La Pass to Dzongla

Trek from Dzongla to Gorak Shep

Trek to Everest Base Camp and Return to Gorak Shep

Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Lobuche

Cross Kongma La Pass to Chhukung

Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche

Trek from Tengboche to Namche Bazaar

Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Everest Three Passes Trek Route Map

Elevation Profile

Trek Difficulty

Best Season

Spring

Autumn

Summer

Winter

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

Meals

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Gluten Free

Packing List

General

Head & Upper Body

Torso

Lower Body

Hands & Feet

First Aid

Essentials

Optional

Safety & Altitude

Everest Three Passes Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

Meals & Accommodation

Guide & Staff

Permits & Taxes

Safety

Not Included

Trekking with Children

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

Within 7 Days

After 7 Days

Last-Minute

Trek Gallery

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Clear Pricing

Safety First

Fair Staff Treatment

Private Treks

Local Support

Customer Reviews

Everest Three Passes FAQs

General

Difficulty & Fitness

Weather & Best Season

Arrival & Visa

Cost & Permits

Accommodation & Food

Health & Safety

How to Book

Fill in the Booking Form