Deviate from the normal Everest Base Camp trek trail, and wander into the depths of the Khumbu valley with the Everest Three High Passes Trek. This is a chance to test your patience and your stamina, by crossing the three highest passes in Everest region. Come explore one of the most difficult trekking trails in Nepal. While there are fairly good trials in some areas, some areas of the trail are potentially dangerous and all the more exciting.

Proceeds from your trek will be used by the Volunteers Initiative Nepal, to help poor, marginalized communities and women living in rural areas of Nepal. You have the opportunity to directly help and visit the people you help. Do not make your journey just something that satisfies you. Be sure to make a change in the world and your excitement and satisfaction are surely set to become double fold.

Tread upon the footprints of mountaineers that climb Everest and take part in this exhausting yet deeply satisfying journey to explore the wild Khumbu region. Enroll in this chance to make your trekking dreams come true, with the one in a million opportunity to help out marginalized communities of Nepal.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Mixed with the chance to give back to the people living in Nepal, the Everest Three High Passes Trek is an amalgamation of spectacular mountain scenery, mixed with the warm and welcoming faces of ethnic inhabitants.

You will need a proper physique and immaculate physical strength to be a part of this journey. Your patience is surely set to get tested in the duration of this long, exhausting yet extremely exciting journey. The high passes of Kongma La (5535 m), Cho La (5380 m) and Renjo La (5388 m). As well as 5 other peaks will be crossed before this 23-day journey is over.

This trek is considered to be one of the top treks in Nepal and should be ideally carried out in the spring season when the flowers are in full bloom and the cold does not bite into you. This tough trek passes through high altitudes, rocky terrain and has longer walking hours per day. Demanding ascents and descents are normal and the average walking hours per day is 6 hours.

The trek starts in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu and takes trekkers into Lukla. The flight to Lukla is considered to be one of the most fascinating flights across the world, with spectacular mountain scenery. From this point, the Everest Three Pass Trek follows the same itinerary of the Everest Base Camp Trek, up to the entry-point of Everest, Namche. From here we walk to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche monastery, and one of the most scenic spots in Everest region. After witnessing the spectacle of the sky-high mountain peaks like the Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and Ama Dablam, we move on to Dingboche. The trek traverses through the Imja Khola valley to Chukkung now. From here, we cross the Kong Ma La Pass (5530m).

Kong Ma La Pass offers spectacular scenery of the ridge of Nuptse. From here, it is a steep descent to the Khumbu Glacier, followed by which we reach the Everest Base Camp. After witnessing the views of the Everest from up close and climbing the Kalapatthar peak, we move on to cross the Cho La Pass (5300m) to reach Gokyo. After exploring the azure blue beauty of the lakes of Gokyo, we cross the Renjo La Pass (5345m) and finally end the incredible trekking journey in Lukla.

Guides and porters are easily accessible and the mountain scenery of the Everest region is something worth picturing for a long time to come. Avoid AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) by following the rules of acclimatization, and this tour is surely set to be one of the most incredible experiences of a lifetime. Highlights of this journey surely have to be the passage through lush meadows, beautiful rhododendron forests and the perfect view of the peaks like Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and the mighty Everest along with the moraine of the Khumbu glacier.

Highlights

Trek to the world-famous place in Nepal and world
One of the most popular trekking destinations globally.
Winters are extremely cold and harsh, making trekking challenging.
Witness lush meadows, thick rhododendron forests, and vibrant valleys.
Immerse yourself in natural beauty, culture, and unique traditions.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Today, you arrive in the capital of this beautiful country in Nepal. With a promise to create a change and leave a positive footprint in the country you visit, you will be transferred to the hotel. Relax around the premises of the hotel, or simply stroll around the streets to explore the colorful nightlife of the capital. No meals included.

Day 2 :

Sightseeing around Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a perfect destination for architectural freaks, because of the abundance of perfect looking temples, monasteries, and architectural creations. Explore divine sculptures of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square and the Patan Durbar Square. You will be given a brief description about the trek to follow. BLD included.

Day 3 :

Kathmandu- Lukla- Phakding (2610m)

The trek actually commences today but is started off by a flight to Lukla. The flight to Lukla is considered to be one of the most thrilling experiences in Nepal. The views of the majestic peaks of the Everest region will welcome you with open arms. After landing in the small airstrip in Lukla, it is time to trek through the Dudh Koshi Valley to Phakding. This area is known for the tantalizing views of the mountain peaks of Everest region. Approximately 3 hours of walk and 25 minutes of fly time. BLD included.

Day 4 :

Phakding- Namche (3440m)

Today, we will enter the “entry way to Everest”. Namche Bazaar was a former trading point for Tibetans and Nepalese and is still known for its massive “haat” or “bazaar” that takes place every year. It is a modern village with proper accommodation facilities, Wi-Fi, and materials ranging from trekking materials to souvenirs for loved ones back home.

Start the walk from Phakding and cross from one river bank to other. Cross magnificent forests of magnolia, rhododendron and giant fir to reach Namche via Jorsale. Approximately 7 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 5 :

Acclimatization at Namche

This day is rightly set aside for acclimatization, in order to reduce the chances of suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness. We will hike to the villages of Kunde and Khumjung, which are situated under the rocky peak of Khumbila. There is a monastery to visit in Khumjung, while Khunde is home to the Edmund Hillary Hospital.

We also have the option to hike towards the birthplace of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa at Thame. Walk further to Phurte, to explore the majestic views of the peaks of the Everest region shining in their full glory. Approximately 5-6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 6 :

Namche- Tengboche (3867m)

It is time to move out from the heartland of the Sherpa people, and cross the Trashinga Village in order to reach Tengboche at the end of the morning. We will cross the settlement of Phunki Thangka and pass through a forest to reach Tengboche. Tengboche is the home of the most beautiful viewpoints of Everest region and is home to the famous Tengboche monastery. Approximately 6 hours of walking time is required. BLD included.

Day 7 :

Tengboche- Dingboche (4110m)

Descend down to the Imja Khola in the wee hours of the morning, by passing through beautiful forests of rhododendron. Cross the Buddhist nunnery and move from the northern bank of Imja Khola to Pangboche. This area offers up close views of the mighty Ama Dablam peak. Cross the confluence of the Imja Khola and the Khumbu River to reach the settlement of Somare. Dingboche is a summer settlement and offers up close view of the Khumbu Glacier and peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Approximately 7 hours of trek. BLD included.

Day 08 :

Acclimatization at Dingboche

Another day targeted for acclimatization. Explore the Imja Khola valley and walk up to Bibre. From here move on to visit Chukhung, filled with several yak huts. Chukhung offers the perfect views of the Nuptse- Lhotse ridge and the Ama Dablam peak.

You can also opt to walk up to the Nangkarthsang peak (5100m), which offers spectacular views of the Chalotse and Tawoche peaks. Return to Dingboche. Approximately 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 09 :

Dingboche- Chhukkung (4110m)

Follow the sides of the Imja Khola valley and walk up to Bibre. From here move on to visit Chukhung, filled with several yak huts. Chukhung offers the perfect views of the Nuptse- Lhotse ridge and the Ama Dablam peak. Climb the viewpoint of the Chukkhung Ri, and explore the views of the fantastic snow and ice formations of the Amphu Lapsa. Approximately 8 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 10 :

Chukkung- Kong Ma La (5530m) – Lobuche (4930m)

Of the three passes, we will be crossing the first pass today. Start off early morning in order to climb a steep ascent to Kongma La Pass. The scenery is spectacular as the Pokalde Peak rears behind us and the ridge of the Nuptse appears directly above. The glaciers of Kongmatse are in full glory as we reach a small lake. From here, a steep path finally brings us to the Kong Ma La pass. Breathe in the amazing kaleidoscope of mountain scenery as you descend down to the Khumbu Glacier. The day ends in the summer settlement of Lobuche. Approximately 9 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 11 :

Lobuche- Everest Base Camp (4260m) -Gorakshep (5184m)

This is yet another long day, which takes us to the base camp of the mighty Everest. Follow the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep. From Gorakshep, the path splits into two. One follows the path to the Everest Base Camp while the other one moves towards the Kalapatthar Peak. Climb the lateral moraine of Khumbu Glacier and reach the Everest Base Camp. Views of the Nuptse above us, Pumori behind us and the Khumbu icefall in all its shining glory, is a sight to behold and remember. Spend the night in Gorakshep. Approximately 10-12 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 12 :

Gorakshep- Kalapattar (5545m) – Lobuche (4910m)

Ascend the peak of Kalaptahhr which essentially means black rock. Start off steeply out from Gorakshep and climb the peak to observe the spectacular views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Pumori, Tawache and last but not the least, Everest. Retrace the steps back to Lobuche. Approximately 7 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 13 :

Lobuche- Dzongla (4830m)

We are now moving closer to the second pass of the Everest Three High Pass Trek. Start the day by walking through the terminal moraine of Khumbu glacier, follows by the passage through the Dzong La Pass. With the views of the twin peaks of Tawoche and Chalotse cheering us on. We reach the base of the Lobuche peak. Cross the Cholatso lake and end the day in the settlement at the foot of the Cholatse mountain, Dzongla. Approximately 5 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 14 :

Dzongla- Cho La (5300m)- Thagnak (4700m)

Leave the watershed of Everest and enter the watershed of Cho Oyu. The day starts off by passing through steep rock boulders. The views are magnetizing as we move towards the Gokyo Valley beyond the Cho La Pass. The ascent up to the Cho La Pass is difficult, yet highly entertaining. Breathe in the views offered by the pass and descend down to the Sherpa settlement of Thagnak, situated near the Ngozumoa glacier. Approximately 7-8 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 15 :

Thagnak- Gokyo (4790m)

The trek today is a fairly easy one and takes us through the lateral moraine of the Ngozumpa glacier. Tread along the fascinating paths to reach the Longpongo Lake. Walk past walled meadows to the azure blue beauty of the Gokyo Lake. Explore the beautiful Gokyo valley in the afternoon. Approximately 5 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 16 :

Hike to Gokyo Ri (5360 m)

Hike to the perfect viewpoint of Gokyo Ri early in the morning. The views of the perfect high peaks like the Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu are simply breathtaking. Stroll around and visit other glacial lakes strewn across the mystical Gokyo valley. Approximately 6 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 17 :

Gokyo- Renjo La Pass (5345m) – Lundgren (4380m)

We will be crossing the third pass of the Everest Three High Pass Trek today. This day will reward us with the views of the Everest on the east, Rolwaling Himal on the west. Start off with a steep and barren oath to the Renjo La Pass, followed by a descent to the Rermo Lake. End the day upon reaching the settlement of Lundgren. Approximately 7 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 18 :

Lungden- Thame (3800m)

A shorter day through amazing landscapes as we end the day in Thame. Leave the desolate mountain scenery behind and enter the treeline via the Nangpa La. Follow the Bhote Koshi River and finally end the day in the birthplace of Tenzing Norgay at Thame. Approximately 4 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 19 :

Thame- Monzo (2840 m)

Yet another easy day as we follow a gradual trail to Namche Bazaar. From here, it is an easy descent down to the settlement of Monzo via Jorsale. Approximately 7 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 20 :

Monzo- Lukla (2840m)

It is finally time to end the trek as we reach the statement of Lukla via Phakding. Leave the Sagarmatha National Park and descend through the banks of the Dudh Koshi to reach the Lukla plateau. An optional excursion to the monastery above the river is highly recommended upon reaching the plateau. Approximately 5 hours of walk. BLD included.

Day 21 :

Lukla- Kathmandu (1300m)

Time to bid goodbye to the incredible memories of the Everest region and fly back to the capital. This day is an indication of all that you have achieved and the lives you have touched by willing to be a part of Volunteers Initiative Nepal. With hearts fluttering over the experiences of the past few days, it is finally time to return back to Kathmandu. Afternoon free for relishing the perfect Nepali cuisine. Breakfast included.

Day 22 :

Optional Sightseeing in Kathmandu

This day is separated out for individuals who wish to embark on an optional sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Explore the architectural spectacles of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square as well as the ambiance of the Pashupatinath Temple. Explore the serenity of Boudhanath or simply stroll around the streets of Kathmandu today. Breakfast included.

Day 23 :

Departure

After all that you have experienced over the past few days, and after all you have provided to the marginalised communities in Nepal, ii is finally time to bid goodbye to this incredible nation with happy hearts. Breakfast included