EVEREST THREE HIGH PASS TREK 10 DAYS
EVEREST THREE HIGH PASS TREK 10 DAYS
The Everest Three High Pass Trek is an epic adventure designed by the Sherpa Expedition Team specifically for experienced trekkers and climbers. This trek is not suitable for beginners. It is ideal for those who can walk 8–9 hours a day at high altitudes and have prior experience trekking above 5,000 meters. This challenging circuit takes you through the three highest and most scenic mountain passes in the Khumbu region, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a complete Everest experience.
The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. On the same day, you’ll start your hike toward Phakding and next day Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the bustling heart of the Khumbu region and a vital acclimatization point. After a night in Namche, the trail leads you off the beaten path towards Lungden, a remote village, preparing you for the first of the high passes.
The first major challenge is Renjo La Pass, which offers spectacular views of Gokyo Lake and the Everest range. After crossing Renjo La, you’ll trek to Gokyo, a tranquil village beside the beautiful turquoise lakes. A side hike to Gokyo Ri provides one of the best panoramic vistas in the entire region, showcasing Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
Continuing your adventure, you will move towards Thagnak, a small village located at the base of the second high pass. The next day, you’ll conquer Cho La Pass, the second high-altitude pass that connects the Gokyo Valley with the traditional Everest Base Camp trail. After a steep descent, you’ll rejoin the main trail and head towards Everest Base Camp, a bucket-list destination for many trekkers worldwide.
From Everest Base Camp, you will hike up to Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints of Mount Everest at sunrise. The journey continues as you descend to Lobuche, before making your way to the third and final high pass – Kongma La Pass. This is the most challenging of the three passes and demands a strong level of endurance and fitness.
After crossing Kongma La, you will descend to Chhukung, a quiet village surrounded by massive peaks. From there, the trail leads to Dingboche, another important Sherpa village where trekkers typically rest and recover. Your incredible high-altitude journey concludes with a shared helicopter flight to Lukla, offering breathtaking aerial views of the region, followed by a regular flight back to Kathmandu.
This Everest Three High Pass Trek offers the ultimate Himalayan adventure, combining remote trails, iconic peaks, and cultural immersion in Sherpa life. For those with the experience, fitness, and determination, this journey is an unforgettable challenge and a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla & Trek to Jorsalle (2,740m) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Your adventure begins with a scenic early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, known for its dramatic mountain runway. Upon arrival, you’ll start trekking along the Dudh Koshi river, passing through Sherpa villages, mani walls, and prayer flags. The trail gently climbs as you make your way to Jorsalle (2,740m), where you will spend your first night immersed in the Himalayan atmosphere.
Day 2 : Trek from Jorsalle to Thame (3,750m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today’s trek leads you through dense forests and traditional Sherpa villages. The trail gradually ascends, offering beautiful views of surrounding peaks. You will pass through the picturesque village of Namche Bazaar and continue towards Thame (3,750m), a remote Sherpa settlement rich in culture and tradition, perfect for acclimatization.
Day 3 : Trek from Thame to Lungden (4,500m/14,764ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Thame, the trek becomes more challenging as you ascend steadily towards the higher altitude. The landscape changes to alpine terrain, and you’ll witness spectacular views of towering Himalayan peaks. You will arrive in Lungden (4,500m), a small and serene village, where you will rest and prepare for the first high pass.
Day 4 : Trek from Lungden to Gokyo Lake (4,750m) via Renjo La Pass (5,446m/17,867ft) – Duration: 8-9 hours.
This is one of the most demanding days, as you cross the first major high pass, Renjo La Pass at 5,446 meters. The climb is steep but rewarding, with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. After descending the pass, you’ll trek to the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lake (4,750m), an alpine paradise nestled in the Himalayas.
Day 5 : Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Trek to Thangnak (4,700m/15,400ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Begin your day with a hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), which offers arguably the best panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, descend back and trek to Thangnak (4,700m), a quaint village located at the base of the next high pass.
Day 6 : Trek from Thangnak to Dzongla (4,855m/15,930ft) via Cho La Pass (5,420m/17,783ft) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Cross the second high pass, Cho La Pass (5,420m), a challenging and icy traverse requiring good fitness and concentration. The descent from Cho La leads you to the small settlement of Dzongla (4,855m), where you’ll rest and recover for the next day’s trek.
Day 7 : Trek to Everest Base Camp and back (5,364m/17,598ft) to Gorak Shep (5,185m/17,010ft) – Duration: 8-9 hours.
Early morning, you’ll trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the ultimate goal for many trekkers and climbers. Spend time soaking in the atmosphere, taking photos, and admiring the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep (5,185m) for your overnight stay, the last permanent settlement before the final ascent.
Day 8 : Climb to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,208ft) and trek to Lobuche (4,910m/16,175ft) – Duration: 5 hours.
Before sunrise, hike up to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for Everest and surrounding peaks. The early climb rewards you with spectacular views and memorable photo opportunities. After descending, trek to Lobuche (4,910m) for the night, enjoying the rugged mountain atmosphere.
Day 9 : Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730m/15,580ft) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m/18,159ft) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Cross the final high pass, Kongma La (5,535m), which offers breathtaking views and a fitting finale to the three-pass circuit. The descent takes you to the village of Chhukung (4,730m), where you’ll rest and celebrate your achievement.
Day 10 : Trek to Dingboche and shared helicopter flight to Lukla; fly back to Kathmandu.
Today you trek down to Dingboche, a larger Sherpa village. From here, you take a shared helicopter flight back to Lukla, avoiding the long return trek. Finally, catch your flight back to Kathmandu, completing your unforgettable Everest Three High Pass adventure.
SERVICES
What’s Included in Your Package
- Private Ground Transfers: All domestic airport pick-ups and drop-offs by comfortable private car or jeep.
- Scenic Helicopter Flight: A shared helicopter flight from Dingboche to Lukla, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the Himalayas.
- All Meals During the Trek: Nutritious three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trekking days, plus fresh seasonal fruit served every evening after dinner.
- Comfortable Lodge Accommodation: Overnight stays in carefully selected trekking lodges (tea houses) known for warmth and hospitality.
- Required Trekking Permits: All paperwork and permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee.
- Domestic Flights: Round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, including private airport transfers and all domestic airport taxes.
- Expert Trekking Guide: An experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide with deep local knowledge. All his meals, salary, insurance, accommodation, and transport are included.
- Professional Sherpa Porters: Reliable and strong Sherpa porters (one porter for every two trekkers), equipped with appropriate trekking gear. All their food, wages, insurance, and accommodation are covered.
- Medical & Emergency Support: A well-stocked first aid kit and emergency helicopter evacuation arrangements (covered by your travel insurance, if required).
- High-Quality Trekking Gear Provided: Free use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (to be returned after the trek).
- Sherpa Expedition Souvenir: A complimentary Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt as a memento of your adventure.
- Safety Monitoring: Daily health checks with an oxygen saturation meter to monitor pulse, oxygen level, and heart rate—helping detect early signs of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Assistant Guide Support: For groups of 8 or more trekkers, an additional assistant guide is included for extra support and safety.
- Government & Administrative Fees: All official taxes and government charges are fully covered.
What’s Not Included in Your Package
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu are not included.
- Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu: Pre- and post-trek hotel stays in Kathmandu are not part of the package.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee: Obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Visa costs: $30 USD (15 days), $50 USD (30 days), $125 USD (90 days).
- Personal Travel and Medical Insurance: Mandatory and must be arranged before your trip.
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the package.
- Personal Expenses: Includes souvenirs, laundry, extra services, and anything not mentioned in the included items.
- Beverages and Extra Food Items: All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate, soup, soft drinks, bottled water), and extra food items must be purchased individually along the trek.
- Desserts and Sweet Treats: Items like chocolate, cake, pie, and pudding are not included.
- Hot Showers and Charging: Fees for hot showers and charging electronic devices at tea houses are the trekker’s responsibility.
- Tips for Staff: Tips for your guide, porter, and driver are not included but are customary and greatly appreciated.
- Excess Baggage on Lukla Flight: The weight allowance is 10 kg for checked baggage. Any excess will incur an additional fee.
- Early Return Costs: In case of illness or unforeseen circumstances requiring early trek return, all related expenses (flights, meals, hotels, etc.) are non-refundable and will be at your own cost in Kathmandu.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- Crampons
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must be useful on the trek
- 4 passport-size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Physical Fitness & Experience Required
This trek is only for experienced trekkers or climbers who have previously been above 5,000 meters. You must be able to walk 8–9 hours per day at high altitudes, often over rough terrain and in cold weather. Cardiovascular endurance, strength, and prior acclimatization are essential.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for this trek are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views. Avoid monsoon (June–August) and winter (December–February) due to heavy rain or snowfall, which can make passes dangerous or inaccessible.
Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
Due to the high altitude, there is a high risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary, such as rest in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo. Trekking gradually, staying hydrated, and listening to your body are critical for safety.
Communication and Connectivity
While trekking in the Everest region, mobile network coverage is limited, especially in remote areas like Lungden, Thagnak, and Chhukung. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but it’s often slow and unreliable. Carrying a local SIM card like Ncell or using a satellite phone for emergencies is recommended if constant connectivity is important.
Accommodation and Food
Teahouses along the route provide basic lodging with twin-sharing rooms and common toilets. The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become. Meals are mostly vegetarian and include items like dal bhat, noodles, pasta, momos, and fried rice. It’s wise to bring some snacks, energy bars, and electrolyte powders for long trekking days.
Weather Conditions
Weather in the high Himalayas is unpredictable. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially when crossing high passes like Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La. Sudden snowfall, strong winds, or fog may cause delays or route changes. Always follow your guide’s advice and allow a few buffer days in your itinerary for weather-related changes.
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FAQS
How difficult is the Everest Three Pass Trek?
The Everest Three Pass Trek is considered very challenging and is recommended only for experienced trekkers with previous high-altitude trekking experience. It involves crossing three high passes above 5,300 meters and trekking 6–9 hours daily on rugged terrain.
What are the three passes included in the trek?
The three major high-altitude passes are:
- Renjo La Pass (5,360m)
- Cho La Pass (5,420m)
- Kongma La Pass (5,535m)
These passes offer spectacular views but require stamina, good fitness, and acclimatization.
Do I need prior trekking experience?
Yes. This trek is not for beginners. You should have completed at least one high-altitude trek above 5,000m before and be comfortable with long trekking days in cold conditions.
What is the highest point reached on this trek?
The highest point is Kongma La Pass (5,535m). However, Kala Patthar (5,545m), which is optional but highly recommended, offers the best viewpoint of Mount Everest.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Altitude sickness is a serious risk, especially due to the trek’s rapid elevation gain and multiple high passes. The itinerary includes acclimatization days, and guides carry pulse oximeters and first-aid kits for safety. Travel insurance with high-altitude evacuation coverage is mandatory.
What type of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in local tea houses or lodges along the trail. These are basic but comfortable, with twin-sharing rooms. Higher altitude lodges may have limited facilities such as shared toilets, no heating, and paid hot showers.
What kind of food is available during the trek?
Meals are typically Nepali and Tibetan-style, with options like dal bhat, noodles, pasta, fried rice, and momos. The package includes three meals per day plus fresh fruits in the evening. Drinks and desserts are not included.
When is the best time to do the Three Pass Trek?
The best seasons are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) when weather conditions are stable, skies are clear, and the views are at their best. Winter and monsoon treks are not recommended due to snow and poor trail conditions.
What permits are required for this trek?
You’ll need:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
These are included in the package and arranged by the trekking agency.
Is there a helicopter included in the trek?
Yes. This 10-day trek includes a shared helicopter flight from Dingboche to Lukla, offering a scenic and time-saving exit after completing the trek circuit.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 5504 Reviews
Emily Zhao
Singapore
May 28, 2025
Professional Trek, Heartfelt Memories – Led by Tshering
I signed up for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Sherpa Expedition based on a friend’s recommendation, and now I can confidently say it was the best travel decision I’ve ever made. Our guide, Tshering, was truly special. Calm, experienced, and incredibly warm-hearted, he guided us through every step with confidence and care. What I admired most was how he made sure everyone in the group felt supported. Whether it was helping with altitude or simply offering a kind word during steep climbs, he was always there. The trek itself was stunning—every day revealed a new landscape and view. We trekked through rhododendron forests, past rivers and waterfalls, and finally reached the snow-filled amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp. Sherpa Expedition managed all logistics perfectly—from flights to accommodation to delicious meals at the tea houses. Tshering taught us about the culture, pointed out peaks, and even made us laugh during the tough sections. The views from base camp were beyond anything I’ve ever seen—pure magic. I left Nepal with new friendships and a heart full of gratitude. Thank you, Tshering, and thank you, Sherpa Expedition, for an unforgettable experience.
Laura Petrovic
Canada
May 13, 2025
Absolutely Magical Trek with Guide Dendi
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp was one of the most magical experiences of my life. Sherpa Expedition made the entire journey smooth and stress-free, and a huge part of that was thanks to our guide, Dendi. His professionalism, combined with his kindness, made him the perfect companion for this adventure. Dendi was extremely knowledgeable and knew the region inside out—he explained the culture, the peaks, and ensured we were adjusting well to the altitude. Every day was an adventure—crossing rivers, walking through thick forest trails, and climbing toward snow-covered landscapes. Sherpa Expedition’s planning was excellent. The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara was on time, the porters were friendly and hardworking, and the tea houses we stayed in were comfortable and offered surprisingly good food. Dendi checked our health daily, helped with gear issues, and created a supportive group atmosphere. When we finally reached base camp, the sheer beauty brought tears to my eyes. It felt like standing in the heart of nature. This was not just a trek, but an emotional and beautiful journey. I’m thankful to Dendi and the Sherpa Expedition team. I would absolutely recommend this company for anyone looking to experience the Himalayas.
Marcel Mastenbroek
Netherlands
April 9, 2025
Beautiful adventure
My brother and I had a great trip to the Everest Base Camp. Together with Santa our very well informed gide, who took care of us in a fantastic way and gave us much information during the hike, and Gulzen our porter (who carried each day our two bags of 10kg each plus his own bag....unbelievable). We had a wonderful time in the beautiful Himalayas, it was a lifetime experience!
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