Everest Three Pass Trek
20 days
Moderate
From £ 2,350
£ 2,025
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What's included?

Transportation

Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek

Meals

All meals during the trek

Permits

Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and TIMS card

Guide

Experienced, English-speaking trek guide

What is it really like?

Photos from the Everest Three Pass Trek

Conquer three high passes: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m)

360° Himalayan views – Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu & more

Traverse remote trails through the heart of the Khumbu region

Cultural immersion in Sherpa villages like Namche, Thame & Dingboche

Visit iconic sites: Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri

Explore ancient monasteries in highland settlements

Key Information

Your adventure begins upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative from Alture Treks will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. Use the afternoon to unwind—catch up on sleep, stroll through the vibrant streets, or sample Nepalese cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a welcome briefing over dinner, getting introduced to the trek, your guide and porter team, safety protocols, and gear checklists.

Explore Kathmandu’s cultural wonders with Alture Treks guiding you through UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), iconic for sweeping valley views and rich symbolism, and Boudhanath Stupa, a major center for Tibetan Buddhism. In the afternoon, the group will shop for last-minute trek supplies and undergo a gear orientation and packing session. A final expedition briefing ensures everyone is ready for the early morning flight.

Wake before dawn for the exhilarating flight to Lukla (2,860 m), offering breathtaking Himalayan vistas. After touchdown, meet your crew, and begin trekking along the Dudh Koshi valley—crossing suspension bridges lined with prayer flags. The trail weaves through pine forests to arrive at Phakding, a village that marks the start of the true Himalayan experience. Settle into your teahouse and enjoy a warm dinner.

Today’s trek leads through Sagarmatha National Park. Your route ascends past rivers, prayer wheels, and mani walls. Several suspension bridges span the roaring Dudh Koshi. As elevation amps up, vegetation thins and Sherpa villages come into view. Arriving at Namche Bazaar—a vibrant Sherpa trade hub—you’ll absorb its energy. Evening at leisure to walk the trails around Namche and gaze at Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

A vital rest day to adapt to altitude. Your guide will lead a hike to the Scout Memorial (3,700 m) for panoramic Himalayan views and a close-up of Everest's north face. Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum in Namche for insights into local traditions. Time is also given for gear checks, and optional activities such as internet café visits or exploring local markets.

Leaving Namche, you ascend through rhododendron and fir forests. You'll eventually reach the spiritual heart of the Khumbu: Tengboche Monastery. Situated on a ridge with sweeping views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse, it's a serene and majestic stop. After visiting the monastery and its prayer hall, spend the late afternoon relaxing or taking a short hike to admire nearby panoramas.

The trek continues through rugged landscapes, descending into the Imja Khola valley before reascending to Dingboche. Along the way, you'll pass summer mani walls, stone memorials, and yak pastures. As you approach Dingboche—snugly nestled below dramatic peaks—the air thins and temperatures drop. In the village, prepare for quiet evenings amidst Himalayan grandeur.

Another acclimatization day essential before tackling higher passes. A hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100 m) offers splendid views of Makalu, Island Peak, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Return to Dingboche for lunch and relaxation. Your guide will lead a session on high-altitude care, familiarize you with symptoms of altitude sickness, and teach tips like hydration and pacing.

You trek to Chhukung, a small hamlet ideal for launching the ascent of Chhukung Ri. Begin pre-dawn to tackle this 5,550‑meter summit. From the top, revel in 360° views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, the Imja glacier, and perhaps even distant Everest. Return to Chhukung for lunch before overnighting, with big mountain memories fueling your spirit.

Prepare for your first high Himalayan pass. You cross the rugged and rocky Kongma La Pass (5,535 m) early, rewarded with adventurous ridge traverses and towering views. Descend to Lobuche for a well-earned rest amidst the wilderness. The crisp mountain night sets in early, perfect for stargazing or storytelling over a warm meal.

Continue to Gorak Shep, your base for Everest exploration. After a quick lunch, push onwards to Everest Base Camp. Trekking past memorial cairns, you'll reach the legendary site—set amidst glacial boulders. Take your time at EBC for photos and reflective moments before returning to Gorak Shep for the night.

At 4 am, hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) to catch a phenomenal sunrise illuminating Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. Savor panoramic beauty before descending via Gorak Shep back to Lobuche. Rest the afternoon—sipping hot drinks and reviewing photos under Nepal’s highest peaks.

Ascend gently above Lobuche and traverse moraines towards Dzongla. The terrain is varied—sometimes rocky, other times windswept glacial valleys. Dzongla, perched in a small high-altitude basin, feels remote yet comforting. Settle into teahouse life and prepare for the big pass ahead.

One of the most exhilarating days: crossing Cho La Pass (5,420 m). Trek through glacial terrain, equipped with crampons if needed. The pass crossing offers sweeping mountain vistas and a real sense of adventure. Descend to the lakeside village of Gokyo—home to the stunning third highest freshwater lake in the world, even higher than EBC.

A full day to deepen your Gokyo experience. Early hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) to absorb epic Himalayan panoramas. Spend the rest of the day visiting the 4th (Tanjung Tso) and 5th (Ngozumpa Tso) Gokyo Lakes—deep, turquoise waters set against suspended ice walls. Return for a relaxing evening with your group and guide.

Today’s trek takes you over Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)—a high vantage point offering Everest views from a novel angle. On the descent, traverse high alpine meadows into forests before reaching Lumde. Nestled in a wooded side-valley, this peaceful village marks a welcome return to less extreme altitude.

Descending towards Namche, you’ll cross glacial rivers and wind through pine-forest terrain. Arrive back in Namche by afternoon—perfect time to rediscover the market, sip on chai, or visit cafes. Celebrate arrival with the support team; enjoy camaraderie and regional cuisine in a cozy evening.

Retrace steps back to Lukla through the Dudh Koshi valley, passing through familiar villages like Phakding. Arrive in Lukla by mid-afternoon. Enjoy a celebratory dinner with the trekking crew—sharing stories and memories of your incredible journey across three Himalayan passes.

Early morning flight back to Kathmandu brings you full circle. Transfer to your hotel and spend your final full day at leisure—explore hidden temples, shop souvenirs, or treat yourself to a spa. Evening farewell dinner with your group and the Alture Treks team, complete with a certificate and slideshow of trek highlights.

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. As you bid farewell to Nepal, carry with you the strength, serenity, and spirit of Everest’s high terrain—an unforgettable experience delivered by Alture Treks.

Your journey with Alture Treks begins upon arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is the primary entry point for most international travelers. From Kathmandu, a scenic flight takes you to Lukla (2,860 m), the gateway to the Everest region and the starting point of the trek. The short 30–40-minute flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a thrilling landing on Lukla’s famed airstrip.

Alture Treks arranges all domestic transfers and ensures smooth logistics from airport pickups to the mountain trails. If weather causes flight delays to Lukla (common in the monsoon or winter), contingency plans such as helicopter charters can be arranged. The trek continues on foot from Lukla, passing through villages like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and so forth, following a carefully acclimatized route.
Elevation Chart
Throughout the trek, Alture Treks ensures that your food and accommodation meet both comfort and hygiene standards. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a 3-star hotel with amenities like hot showers, WiFi, and delicious buffet breakfasts. On the trekking trail, accommodation is in locally-owned teahouses, which provide a warm place to rest and the opportunity to experience Sherpa hospitality firsthand.

Meals are served at the teahouses and consist of a variety of local and international dishes. The staple meal is dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables)—a high-energy dish perfect for trekkers. Other options include pasta, soups, momos (dumplings), and noodles. Alture Treks emphasizes clean food preparation and safe drinking water, often providing water purification tablets or boiled water throughout the journey.
The Everest Three Pass Trek is considered strenuous and challenging, suited for experienced trekkers or those with strong fitness levels and trekking experience. What sets this trek apart is not only the altitude but the three high passes, each over 5,300 meters, which require long days of hiking through rugged terrain, rocky trails, and occasional snowy paths.

That said, with proper acclimatization days built into the itinerary (at Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo), and expert guidance from Alture Treks’ seasoned guides, even non-professional hikers can complete the trek. Mental determination, physical preparation, and appropriate gear are key to success. The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding for those who complete it.

Weather in the Everest region varies greatly depending on the season. The best time for the Everest Three Pass Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (late September to November) periods. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and good visibility of the mountains. Temperatures during the day are moderate at lower altitudes but can drop significantly at higher elevations, especially at night.

Winter (December to February) can bring harsh cold and heavy snow, making some passes impassable, while the monsoon season (June to August) sees heavy rainfall and slippery trails. Alture Treks monitors weather conditions closely and will always prioritize safety, making adjustments to the itinerary if needed due to weather-related issues.

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Lukla and return)
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Teahouse accommodations during the trek
  • All meals during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and TIMS card
  • Experienced, English-speaking trek guide
  • Porter(s) for luggage (1 per 2 trekkers)
  • Trekking map and group medical kit
  • International flights to/from Kathmandu
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Personal expenses (laundry, calls, internet, etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled water
  • Extra nights in Kathmandu outside scheduled itinerary
  • Additional meals and beverages not specified
  • Tips for trekking staff
Given the trek’s strenuous nature, physical preparation is essential. Start your training at least 3 to 6 months before departure. Focus on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and hiking with a backpack. Activities like running, swimming, cycling, and stair climbing help build stamina. Weekly hikes on rough trails with increasing elevation and weight will condition your body for the actual trek.

Mental preparation is equally important. Trekking at high altitude tests your patience, willpower, and discipline. Being in good shape reduces the risk of altitude sickness and increases enjoyment. Alture Treks also provides pre-trip briefings and gear checks to ensure you are physically and mentally prepared for the adventure ahead.
Clothing
  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (long-sleeved)
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Fleece jacket
  • Insulated jacket (down/synthetic)
  • Waterproof, windproof jacket
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm beanie
  • Sun hat
  • Neck gaiter
  • Trekking pants
Handwear
  • Lightweight gloves (inner)
  • Insulated gloves/mittens (outer)
Footwear
  • Hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Camp shoes (sneakers/sandals)
Gear
  • Trekking backpack (30-40L) with cover
  • Sleeping bag (cold-rated)
  • Insulated sleeping pad
  • Trekking poles
  • Insulated water bottles/hydration bladder (2L)
  • Travel-sized toiletries
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Medications (altitude, pain relief)
  • Sun protection cream
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
Miscellaneous
  • Camera and batteries
  • Notebook and pen
  • Earplugs
  • Portable solar charger
  • Headlamp, power bank, extra batteries

The Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most comprehensive and challenging trekking adventures in the Everest region, offered by Alture Treks. This trek goes beyond Everest Base Camp, taking you across three high Himalayan passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m)—while offering unparalleled views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. It combines the best of Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the remote valleys of the Khumbu, making it a favorite for experienced trekkers seeking adventure, variety, and solitude.

The Everest Three Pass Trek is classified as strenuous and is best suited for experienced trekkers with strong physical fitness and previous high-altitude hiking experience. The trail includes steep ascents and descents, glacial crossings, rocky terrain, and prolonged exposure to altitudes above 5,000 meters. Weather conditions at the passes can be unpredictable, so mental resilience and a flexible attitude are also important. Alture Treks ensures your safety through expert guides, proper acclimatization, and well-planned itineraries.

The full Everest Three Pass Trek usually takes 17 to 21 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule. Starting from Lukla, the route follows the traditional Everest Base Camp trail to Namche Bazaar, then detours to tackle Kongma La Pass en route to Everest Base Camp. From there, it crosses Cho La Pass to reach the spectacular Gokyo Lakes and then climbs Renjo La Pass before returning to Namche. The trek can also be done in reverse or customized for weather and individual preferences.

The ideal times for the Everest Three Pass Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather, clear skies, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan giants. Spring also features blooming rhododendrons and more gradual weather changes, while autumn provides crisp air and excellent trail conditions. Winter is possible but much more difficult due to snow on the passes. The monsoon season (June–August) is not recommended due to rain, poor visibility, and landslides.

Yes, and Alture Treks handles all necessary permits for your trek. You will need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These permits are included in your trek package and support conservation and infrastructure in the Everest region. There is no need for a TIMS card for this region under current regulations.

Accommodation during the trek is in local teahouses, which offer basic but clean rooms with twin beds, shared bathrooms, and dining areas. Some larger villages offer private rooms and hot showers. Meals include a variety of Nepali and international dishes—dal bhat, pasta, soups, fried rice, eggs, and pancakes—prepared fresh at the lodges. Alture Treks ensures that meals are hygienic, plentiful, and suited to high-altitude nutrition needs. Vegetarian options are widely available.

Altitude sickness is a real concern on the Everest Three Pass Trek due to its extended exposure to elevations above 4,500 meters. Alture Treks includes multiple acclimatization days in the itinerary, particularly in Namche, Dingboche, and Gokyo, and follows a gradual ascent strategy to reduce risks. Our experienced guides are trained in recognizing and treating altitude-related symptoms and carry first aid kits. Emergency evacuation by helicopter can be arranged if necessary. Trekkers are advised to hydrate frequently, walk slowly, and avoid alcohol during the trek.

Proper physical preparation is essential. You should start training at least 2–3 months in advance, focusing on cardio fitness, leg strength, endurance, and hiking with a loaded pack. Prior experience trekking at high altitudes is highly recommended. Mental preparation is also key, as the trek involves long days, remote conditions, and changing weather. Alture Treks provides full pre-trip guidance, including fitness tips, gear advice, and travel support.

Essential gear includes a warm down jacket, quality hiking boots, thermal layers, a windproof outer shell, trekking poles, gloves, a sleeping bag (-10°C rating or better), a headlamp, and a hydration system. A complete gear list is provided upon booking, and most equipment can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Your main bag (up to 10–12 kg) will be carried by a porter, and you’ll carry a daypack with essentials.

Alture Treks stands out for its commitment to safety, authenticity, and personalized service. Our small group sizes, experienced local guides, and strong logistical support ensure a smooth and memorable trekking experience. We prioritize ethical tourism, responsible travel practices, and genuine cultural engagement. Whether you’re crossing glaciers or gazing at Everest from Gokyo Ri, Alture Treks ensures your Three Pass adventure is as rewarding as it is unforgettable.

The Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Everest region. Organized by Alture Treks, this 20-day adventure covers three high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m)—linking the four major valleys of the Khumbu region: Bhotekoshi, Gokyo, Khumbu, and Imja. This trek not only leads to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) but also offers unparalleled views of some of the world’s highest peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Unlike standard Everest treks, this circular route avoids backtracking and brings you through remote valleys, serene alpine lakes, and traditional Sherpa villages. With Alture Treks, you’re ensured expert guidance, well-planned acclimatization, and an immersive cultural experience. This trek is ideal for those looking for a physical challenge in the heart of the Himalayas combined with breathtaking natural beauty and authentic local interactions.

You can count on us

Expert Local Guides

We are seasoned professionals who know these trails like the back of our hands. We bring both deep knowledge and genuine warmth to your journey—keeping you informed, inspired, and in good hands.

Authentic & Flexible Itineraries

We craft our trips to offer more than just the highlights. Whether it’s a peaceful village walk or a high-altitude challenge, our itineraries blend iconic sights with lesser-known gems, and we’re always happy to tailor the pace to your comfort.

Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your adventure is locked in—no cancellations due to low group sizes. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, you can plan with confidence knowing your trip is guaranteed to go.

Commitment to Safety

Your well-being is our top priority. We closely monitor weather and trail conditions, carry essential safety gear, and make informed decisions on the ground. You’ll trek with peace of mind, backed by a team that genuinely cares.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

We practice low-impact trekking and support local communities every step of the way. From eco-conscious planning to fair wages for our team, we believe in travel that respects people, place, and planet.

Unbeatable Value

We believe great adventures shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. With fair pricing, no hidden fees, and excellent service included from start to finish, Alture Treks offers exceptional value—so you get the most out of your journey without compromise.

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