Cross the three highest trekking passes in the Everest region, stand at Everest Base Camp, explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes and enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu from some of the Himalaya's finest viewpoints
The Everest 3 Passes Trek is widely regarded as the ultimate trekking adventure in Nepal, combining the classic Everest Base Camp Trek with the spectacular high-altitude crossings of Renjo La Pass (5,360m), Cho La Pass (5,420m) and Kongma La Pass (5,535m). This demanding journey offers everything the Everest region is famous for: towering Himalayan peaks, remote Sherpa villages, glacial valleys, turquoise alpine lakes and some of the finest mountain scenery on Earth.
Beginning with the iconic flight to Lukla, the Everest 3 Passes trek trail follows ancient trade routes through the heart of the Khumbu, passing Namche Bazaar, Thame, Gokyo, Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Along the way, trekkers experience the rich culture of the Sherpa people, visit centuries-old monasteries and enjoy constantly changing landscapes ranging from lush pine forests and river valleys to vast glaciers and high mountain passes.
The trek reaches Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the legendary starting point for Everest expeditions, and Kala Patthar (5,545m), widely considered the best viewpoint of Mount Everest. The journey also includes the stunning Gokyo Lakes, often regarded as one of the most beautiful alpine lake systems in the Himalaya. Designed for experienced trekkers seeking a genuine challenge, the Everest 3 Passes Trek delivers an unforgettable combination of adventure, achievement and world-class Himalayan scenery.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Everest 3 Passes Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive to Manthali, fly to Lukla (2,886m) and trek to Phakding (2,640m), approx. 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3,800m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Acclimatisation hike and rest day in Thame.
Day 6: Trek from Thame to Lungde (4,368m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Lungde to Gokyo (4,790m) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m), approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 8: Trek from Gokyo to Thaknak (4,700m), approx. 2 hours.
Day 9: Trek from Thaknak to Dzongla (4,830m) via Cho La Pass (5,420m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 10: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 11: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorak Shep and return to Gorak Shep (5,170m), approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 12: Sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and trek to Lobuche (4,940m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 13: Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m), approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche (3,860m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 15: Trek from Tengboche to Phakding (2,640m), approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 16: Trek from Phakding to Lukla (2,860m), approx. 3-4 hours.
Day 17: Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where a member of our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, the remainder of the day is free to relax, recover from your journey and prepare for the trek ahead. You will meet us and your trek leader for a detailed briefing and have time for any last-minute equipment purchases.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive to Manthali, fly to Lukla (2,886m) and Trek to Phakding (2,640m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
A very early start to Manthali by road and then a short flight will take you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, begin trekking immediately along a pleasant trail through Sherpa settlements and forested hillsides. The route follows the Dudh Kosi River, passing mani walls, prayer wheels and suspension bridges before reaching the riverside village of Phakding.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trek follows the Dudh Kosi Valley through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages. After entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, continue to Jorsalle before tackling the famous climb to Namche Bazaar. Along the ascent, weather permitting, enjoy your first views of Mount Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse. Namche Bazaar is the vibrant commercial and cultural centre of the Khumbu region.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3,800m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the main Everest Base Camp trail behind, follow an ancient trade route once used by Tibetan traders and yak caravans. The quieter trail traverses forests, rivers and traditional settlements while offering excellent views of Kongde Ri and Teng Kangpoche. Thame is one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the region and home to an important monastery.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Acclimatisation Hike and Rest Day in Thame (B L D)
Today is dedicated to acclimatisation. A gradual hike above the village helps your body adapt to the increasing altitude while providing outstanding views across the surrounding valleys and mountains. You may also visit the historic Thame Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek from Thame to Lungde (4,368m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
The trail climbs steadily through increasingly remote high-altitude terrain. The valley widens and the crowds disappear as you approach the isolated settlement of Lungde. Surrounded by vast mountain landscapes, Lungde serves as the gateway to Renjo La Pass.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Lungde to Gokyo (4,790m) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m) | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L D)
One of the most spectacular days of the trek. A challenging ascent leads to Renjo La Pass, where panoramic views stretch across Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and the stunning Gokyo Lakes below. The descent reveals one of the finest mountain panoramas in Nepal before reaching the beautiful lakeside settlement of Gokyo.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Trek from Gokyo to Thaknak (4,700m) | Approx. 2 Hours (B L D)
A shorter day allows time to enjoy the remarkable scenery of the Gokyo Valley. Follow glacial moraine trails alongside the turquoise lakes before arriving at the small settlement of Thaknak, perfectly positioned beneath Cho La Pass.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 9: Trek from Thaknak to Dzongla (4,830m) via Cho La Pass (5,420m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Crossing Cho La Pass is one of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the trek. The route ascends through rocky terrain and glacial landscapes before reaching the pass, where magnificent views extend across the surrounding Himalayan giants. A long descent leads to the isolated settlement of Dzongla beneath the impressive face of Cholatse.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 10: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route traverses high alpine terrain with excellent views of Pumori, Nuptse and the Khumbu Glacier. The gradual ascent to Lobuche offers a glimpse of the rugged environment that characterises the upper Khumbu region.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 11: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorak Shep and Return to Gorak Shep (5,170m) | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L D)
Follow the edge of the Khumbu Glacier towards the legendary Everest Base Camp. Surrounded by towering peaks and shifting ice formations, this iconic destination provides a unique insight into the world of Himalayan mountaineering. After spending time at Base Camp, retrace your steps to Gorak Shep.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 12: Sunrise Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Trek to Lobuche (4,940m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
An early morning ascent to Kala Patthar rewards you with arguably the finest view of Mount Everest available to trekkers. As the sun rises over the Himalaya, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and countless surrounding peaks glow in the morning light. Descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast before continuing back to Lobuche.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 13: Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung (4,730m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535m) | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L D)
The final and highest of the Three Passes. Kongma La Pass is remote, rugged and far less travelled than other sections of the Everest region. The crossing offers dramatic views of glacial valleys, towering peaks and the vast Himalayan landscape before descending into the beautiful Imja Valley and the village of Chhukung.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 14: Trek from Chhukung to Tengboche (3,860m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Descend through the Imja Valley with outstanding views of Ama Dablam dominating the skyline. As the altitude decreases, alpine terrain gradually gives way to forests and traditional Sherpa settlements. Arrive at Tengboche, home to the region’s most famous monastery.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 15: Trek from Tengboche to Phakding (2,640m) | Approx. 8-9 Hours (B L D)
Continue descending through rhododendron forests, suspension bridges and Sherpa villages. The trail retraces part of the classic Everest Base Camp route while offering one final opportunity to enjoy the remarkable scenery of the Khumbu.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 16: Trek from Phakding to Lukla (2,860m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
The final day of trekking follows the Dudh Kosi River back to Lukla. Arriving at the bustling mountain airstrip marks the successful completion of one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding trekking adventures.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 17: Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu (4-5 hours drive) (B)
Take an early morning flight from Lukla to Manthali and then a drive will take you to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest after your journey through the Everest region.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your Everest Three Passes Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather conditions, trail conditions, flight schedules or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Everest 3 Passes Trek Map
Additional Information
Please note: Direct flights between Kathmandu and Lukla may be available depending on the season, weather conditions and airport traffic. During peak periods, flights are often operated via Manthali Airport.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional but highly recommended | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Everest 3 Passes Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
21 Days
Annapurna Region
Strenuous/Difficult
