16-17 Days
5554M
Hard
The Three Passes Everest Trek is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Everest region in Nepal. This trek is perfect for experienced hikers and mountaineers seeking an extraordinary journey amidst the world's highest peaks.
The trek derives its name from the three high mountain passes that must be crossed during the journey: Renjo La Pass (5,388m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535m). These passes offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among others. Crossing these formidable passes requires endurance, physical fitness, and acclimatization to the high altitude, making it a truly rewarding and memorable experience.
The trek typically begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town nestled in the Khumbu region. From Lukla, trekkers make their way through picturesque Sherpa villages, dense forests, and alongside roaring rivers. The trail passes through Namche Bazaar, a bustling market town and the gateway to the Everest region. Here, trekkers have an opportunity to acclimatize and explore the local Sherpa culture.
Continuing the trek, you ascend higher into the stunning Gokyo Valley, known for its turquoise lakes and magnificent glaciers. The first pass, Renjo La, awaits you beyond Gokyo, offering awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. From there, the trail descends to Thame, a traditional Sherpa village renowned for its monasteries and warm hospitality.
The next challenge comes in the form of Cho La Pass, a demanding ascent involving steep climbs and rocky terrain. As you conquer this pass, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of Ama Dablam and other majestic peaks. The trail then leads you to the iconic Everest Base Camp, where mountaineers gather to prepare for their ascent of the world's highest mountain.
After relishing the breathtaking views of Everest Base Camp, you embark on the final pass, Kongma La. This pass offers spectacular vistas of the Khumbu Glacier and the mighty peaks of Pumori and Nuptse. The descent from Kongma La leads you to the vibrant village of Dingboche, renowned for its terraced fields and ancient monasteries.
From Dingboche, you retrace your steps through Tengboche, famous for its Buddhist monastery, and finally reach Namche Bazaar. After bidding farewell to the Khumbu region, you make your way back to Lukla, marking the end of this incredible journey.
The Three Passes Everest Trek is a test of physical endurance, mental resilience, and a profound appreciation for the natural wonders of the Himalayas. It offers trekkers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique Sherpa culture, witness stunning landscapes, and stand in awe of the world's highest peaks.
For more details
Three Passes Everest Trek
Day 1 Kathmandu 1360m to Lukla by air {this takes about 30 mins…trek to Phakding – 3-4 hrs
Day 2 Trek to Namche Bazaar – 5-6 hrs trek
Day 3 Acclimatise at Namche with some rest without being idle
Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Thame [3800m/12470ft]: 4 – 5 hrs
Day 5: Trek Thame to Marlung (4210m/13810ft): 5 – 6 hrs
Day 6: Trek from Marlung to Tso Relmo – 2-3 hrs
Day 7: Trek from Tso Relmo to Gokyo. Cross Renjo pass [5360m/17580ft] – 8-9 hrs
Day 8: Trek from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri
Day 9: Trek from Gokyo Ri to Tragnak – 5-6 hrs
Day 10: Trek from Tragnak to Dzongla. Cross the Cho La – 7-8 hrs
Day 11: Trek from Dzongla to Gorakshep – 5-6 hrs
Day 12: Trek from Gorakshep to Lobuche {4940m}. Hike to Kalapathar {5545m} 5-6 hrs
Day 13: Trek from Lobuche to Chukung {4750m} – 6-7 hrs
Day 14: Trek from Chukung to Tengboche (3860m) – 5-6 hrs
Day 15: Trek from Tengboche to Namche – 5-6 hrs
Day 16: Trek from Namche to Lukla – 6-8 hrs
Day 17: Lukla to Kathmandu by air 1350m