Explore the best way to do Three High Passes Trek in the Everest Region in Nepal.
How To Do The Everest 3 Passes Trek In Nepal?
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The Everest 3 Passes Trek is a thrilling adventure for trekkers in Nepal. It includes crossing three high-altitude passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. These passes are challenging but offer incredible views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
The trek combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with scenic side trips. Popular spots like Gokyo Ri and the Ngozumpa Glacier add breathtaking highlights to the journey, making it unforgettable for adventure lovers.
This trek is physically demanding and requires good fitness and preparation. Trekkers also climb basic peaks such as Kala Patthar, Chhukung Ri, and Gokyo Ri for stunning panoramic views.
The trek allows you to experience the beauty of the Himalayas and Nepal’s rich culture. It typically takes 15-21 days to complete and is best done in spring or autumn for clear weather.
This article will provide you with an idea of how you can do the Everest 3 Passes Trek in Nepal with no hassle. It will also provide the best itinerary to perform the challenging three high passes trek in Nepal.
Understanding the Everest 3 Passes Trek
The Everest 3 Passes Trek is a thrilling adventure in Nepal's Everest region. It offers a complete Himalayan experience, including breathtaking views and cultural encounters.
What is the Everest 3 Passes Trek?
The Everest 3 Passes Trek is a circular trek that covers the Everest region's most iconic landmarks. It combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with thrilling side trips. The trek involves crossing three passes, each over 5,000 meters.
It also includes visits to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Khumbu Glacier. Trekkers experience the beauty of the Himalayas and the unique culture of Sherpa villages. It is ideal for adventure seekers wanting a comprehensive Everest experience.
Major Highlights
This trek includes incredible landmarks and stunning views. Key highlights are:
Visit Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
Scenic exploration of Gokyo Lakes at 4,700–5,000 meters (15,400–16,400 feet).
Khumbu Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, at 4,900 meters (16,076 feet).
Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Khunde, Thame, Pangboche, and Dingboche.
Panoramic views of Everest at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) and Lhotse at 8,516 meters (27,940 feet).
Best Time for 3 Passes Trek in Nepal
Choosing the right time for the Everest 3 Passes Trek is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey. The trek's high-altitude trails require stable weather and clear views.
Spring (March- May) and Autumn (September- November) are the best seasons for Everest Passes. These months offer mild temperatures and excellent visibility.
Winter brings icy trails and extreme cold, making it very challenging. Monsoons (June- August) bring heavy rain and slippery paths. This can make hiking risky and dangerous.
Required Permits
Before starting the Everest Three Passes trek in Nepal, you'll need a few permits. The Sagarmatha National Park Permit costs $30 per person. This permit allows you to enter and trek through the national park.
You also need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, which costs $30 per person. These permits are necessary for the Everest region. Himalayan Scenery Treks will handle all your permits. You can focus on enjoying your trek and making memories.
Physical Fitness
The Everest Three Passes Trek is challenging. You will face long days, steep ascents, and high altitudes. In some areas the high altitude can make breathing harder. This includes Namche Bazar (3,440 meters / 11,286 feet), Dingboche (4,410 meters / 14,469 feet), and Gorak Shep (5,164 meters / 16,942 feet).
It is important to have good physical fitness to handle these conditions. Prior trekking experience will help you manage the terrain. If you're not sure about your fitness, start preparing well in advance.
Here are some tips to prepare:
Hike with a Backpack: Practice hiking uphill with a backpack. Start with light loads and increase weight gradually.
Cardio Training: Do cardio exercises like running or cycling for 30 minutes 3-4 times a week.
Strengthen Legs and Core: Do squats, lunges, and planks to build leg and core strength.
Altitude Training: If possible, hike at higher elevations or use an altitude mask to train.
Build Endurance: Go on long hikes, 4-6 hours, at least once a week to improve stamina.
Related: How Difficult is Everest Base Camp Trek
Route Overview and Trekking Itinerary
The Everest 3 Passes Trek begins at Lukla (2,860 meters / 9,383 feet). It is known for the famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport. Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region. It offers dramatic mountain views.
The first major stop is Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters / 11,286 feet). It is a vibrant Sherpa town and the hub of the Khumbu region. Namche Bazaar has a busy market and offers great views of Everest and Lhotse.
Next, you reach Tengboche (3,860 meters / 12,664 feet). This village is home to the iconic Tengboche Monastery. The monastery is one of the largest in the region. It provides stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks.
After Tengboche, you arrive at Chhukung (4,730 meters / 15,518 feet). It is a small village with close-up views of Island Peak and Lhotse. Chhukung is also a base for climbers attempting Island Peak.
From Chhukung, you head to Dzongla (4,830 meters / 15,847 feet). It is a remote village surrounded by towering mountains. Dzongla offers excellent views of Cho Oyu.
The next stop is Gokyo (4,750 meters / 15,580 feet). Gokyo is known for its serene Gokyo Lakes. The lakes are considered one of the most beautiful places in the region.
Finally, you reach Thame (3,820 meters / 12,533 feet). Thame is known for its historical significance. It is home to the Thame Monastery, which holds spiritual importance for the Sherpas.
Kongma La Pass
Kongma La Pass is the first high pass on the Everest 3 Passes Trek. It offers breathtaking views of the Khumbu Glacier. The pass is considered the hardest and longest of the three passes. The distance is 10.61 km (6.6 miles).
The trek takes about 6 to 9 hours, depending on fitness and weather. You walk for hours through a gorge between the Nuptse (7,861 meters / 25,791 feet) and Pokalde (5,806 meters / 19,049 feet) peaks.
Cho La Pass
Cho La Pass connects the Everest Base Camp route with the Gokyo Valley. The walk from Dzongla (4,830 meters / 15,847 feet) to Thagnak (4,700 meters / 15,419 feet) takes 7 to 8 hours. The total distance is about 8 km (5 miles).
From Cho La, trekkers can see peaks like Cholatse (6,440 meters / 21,130 feet), Nirekha (6,140 meters / 20,110 feet), and Lobuche East (6,119 meters / 20,073 feet). The trail has rockfall risks, so it’s best to hire a guide.
Renjo La Pass
Renjo La Pass is the final pass on the trek. It offers stunning views of the Gokyo Lakes and Everest. Many consider it the best spot to view Everest from a distance.
From Renjo La, you can see Everest (8,848 meters / 29,029 feet), Lhotse (8,516 meters / 27,940 feet), Nuptse (7,861 meters / 25,791 feet), Makalu (8,485 meters / 27,838 feet), Cho Oyu (8,188 meters / 26,864 feet), and Ama Dablam (6,312 meters / 20,711 feet). It’s close to the Nepal-Tibet border, with the Nangpa La Pass (5,700 meters / 18,701 feet).
Side Trips from Three High Passes
During the Everest 3 Passes Trek in Nepal, you can take side trips to enjoy extra views. Climbing Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters / 17,575 feet) gives you a panoramic view of the mountains. You can see Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu from there.
Another option is climbing Chhukung Ri (5,550 meters / 18,209 feet) for more stunning views. You can also visit the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, which are at high altitudes. Another highlight is the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal. It is under the world’s sixth-highest mountain, 8,188 metres (26,864 ft).
Suggested Itinerary
This itinerary will help your three-pass trip with ease;
Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) and easy hike to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft) | 3 Hours
Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft) | 7 Hours
Day 3: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar | Explore Namche and hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m/12,723ft) | 4 Hours
Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m/12,664ft) | 7 Hours
Day 5: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m/14,469ft) | 6 Hours
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche | Explore Dingboche Bazar
Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung Village (4,730m/15,518ft) and hike to Chhukung Ri (5,546m/18,192ft) | 6 Hours
Day 8: Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m/18,159ft) and trek to Lobuche (4,940m/16,207ft) | 7 Hours
Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,164m/16,942ft) and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft) | 5 Hours
Day 10: Strenuous hike to Kalapatthar (5,555m/18,225ft) and return to Lobuche | 5-6 Hours
Day 11: Trek from Lobuche to Dzongla (4,830m/15,849ft) | 6 Hours
Day 12: Trek from Dzongla to Gokyo via Cho La Pass (5,368m/17,611ft) | 6 Hours
Day 13: Acclimatization day at Gokyo | Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft) | 6 Hours
Day 14: Trek to Marlung via Renjo La Pass (5,360m/17,585ft) | 7 Hours
Day 15: Trek from Marlung to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft) | 6 Hours
Day 16: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) | 5 Hours
Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,428ft | 45 Minutes
Challenges of the 3 Passes Trek
The 3 Passes Trek in the Everest region offers incredible views and adventure, but it also comes with challenges. The terrain is physically demanding, and the weather can be unpredictable.
Additionally, trekkers need to prepare for high-altitude conditions, which can lead to health risks. Understanding these challenges can help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable trek.
High Altitude and Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
The trek involves crossing elevations over 5,500 meters, which increases the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
To avoid AMS, it's crucial to take acclimatization days, especially at Namche Bazaar and Gokyo. These breaks help your body adjust to the high altitude. A guide is essential to monitor symptoms and provide support. Make sure to hydrate and take it slow to avoid AMS-related complications on the trip.
Physically Demanding Terrain
The 3 Passes Trek involves long days with steep ascents, rocky trails, and icy passes. It requires physical strength, endurance, and good trekking gear. To tackle these challenging conditions, you’ll need trekking poles and sturdy boots. Prepare for a strenuous journey, as the terrain is demanding and tiring.
Additional Tips for the 3 Passes Trek in Nepal
Pack light: Keep your backpack as light as possible. Only carry essential items to avoid unnecessary strain.
Pre-trek fitness: Build endurance before the trek by hiking or doing cardio exercises to prepare for long, challenging days.
Trek with a guide: A knowledgeable guide will help navigate the trails, provide valuable information, and assist in case of emergency.
Altitude sickness awareness: Know the symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, dizziness, nausea) and take breaks as needed.
Stay ahead of the weather: Start your trek early to avoid afternoon storms and unpredictable weather conditions at high passes.
Practice with your gear: Test your trekking boots, poles, and other equipment before the trek to ensure comfort and function.
Carry extra snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits are great for quick refuelling during the trek.
Backup power: Carry a portable power bank to charge devices like phones or cameras, as electricity can be limited at higher altitudes.
Related: How Difficult is Manaslu Circuit Trek
Weather and Trail Conditions
The weather in the Everest region can change quickly. This is especially true at the passes. Icy roads and slippery conditions make trekking difficult. Kongma La Pass (5,535m) is particularly challenging. Glaciers and snow-covered paths add to the difficulty. Sudden weather changes are common in the area. It is important to be prepared for these conditions.
Tip: Be cautious on icy trails and use trekking poles for balance.
Additional Equipment
Before embarking on the trek, it's essential to be fully prepared. The trek takes you through high altitudes and challenging terrain, so the right equipment is crucial for safety and comfort. Here’s a list of essentials you should carry for the trek:
Backpack (40-50L) for carrying your gear comfortably
Sleeping Bag (rated for -10°C to -20°C)
Trekking Poles to help with stability on steep ascents and descents
Sturdy Hiking Boots with good ankle support
Gaiters to protect against snow and mud
Waterproof Jacket and Pants to protect against rain and wind
Thermal Layer (base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer)
Hat, Gloves, and Buff for warmth and sun protection
Sunglasses with UV protection for high-altitude sun
Headlamp with extra batteries
How to Prepare for the Everest 3 Passes Trek in Nepal
Preparing for the High Passes Trek requires planning. You need the right equipment and physical preparation. It is also important to have good support. Here are some tips to help you get ready.
Gear Essentials
To ensure comfort and safety, bring the following gear:
Waterproof Trekking Boots: These keep your feet dry. They are essential on wet trails, like those around Namche Bazaar and Gokyo.
Trekking Poles: Poles help with balance. They are useful on steep ascents and descents, especially on passes like Cho La and Renjo La.
Winter Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag keeps you warm. It’s important in cold areas like Gokyo and Kala Patthar.
Warm Layers: Wear warm clothes to protect from the cold. These are especially needed in the mornings and at high altitudes like Everest Base Camp.
Training for Endurance
Training is important to prepare your body. Focus on building strength and stamina before the trek.
Uphill Hikes: Practice uphill hikes. This helps you prepare for tough passes like Kongma La and Renjo La.
Cardio Workouts: Do cardio to strengthen your heart and lungs. This will help you handle the altitude and long days in places like Gokyo and Lobuche.
Long Walks: Take long walks on rough terrain. This prepares you for trails in Tengboche and Dingboche.
Packing Tips
Packing light is important. But don’t forget these essential items:
First Aid Kit: Although our team carries a first aid kit, keeping a backup for minor injuries is important. It is especially needed in remote areas like Dzongla and Lobuche.
Sunscreen: Use sunscreen to protect your skin. This is important at high altitudes like Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp.
Snacks: Carry energy-boosting snacks. They are useful during long trekking days through Namche Bazaar and Gokyo.
Choosing the Right Support
Guides and porters are essential for a safe trek. They help you navigate the terrain and provide support. A guide ensures you stay on track. Porters carry your heavy gear, making your trek easier. They also assist with safety and cultural concerns.
Having the right support from Himalayan Scenery Treks allows you to focus on the stunning views of the Himalayas, especially around Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Namche Bazaar.
Accommodations and Meals on the Trek
Accommodations and meals are key to the 3 Passes Trek. Lodges provide different levels of comfort. Meals are simple but give energy for trekking.
Here's what you can expect along the way.
Accommodation
During the 3 Passes Trek, accommodations range from basic to comfortable. Most lodges offer simple rooms with shared facilities. Luxury lodges are available until Dingboche, but after that, you are in for a basic teahouse.
Lukla (2,860m): Basic and luxury lodges available. Shared bathrooms are common.
Namche Bazaar (3,440m): Options include comfortable lodges with hot showers and attached bathrooms.
Tengboche (3,860m): Basic teahouse with shared bathrooms.
Dingboche (4,410m): Few lodges with better facilities. Some have attached bathrooms, but most are basic.
Lobuche (4,940m) and onwards: Basic teahouses with limited amenities.
Meals
Meals on the trek are simple but energy-packed to fuel your journey. Expect warm, freshly prepared options.
Dal Bhat: A Nepali staple with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables.
Noodles: Fried or soupy noodles with vegetables or meat.
Tibetan Bread: Fried bread, often served with jam or honey.
Porridge: Warm and filling, perfect for breakfast.
Mo:Mo: Nepali-style dumplings with vegetables or meat.
Fried Rice: A quick, hearty meal option.
Tips:
Carry energy bars for extra stamina during long days.
Pack a lunch for challenging routes like Kongma La Pass and Cho La Pass.
Private vs. Group Trekking
Choosing between private and group trekking depends on your travel style and preferences. Both options have their own advantages, and understanding them can help you plan better.
Private trekking offers a highly personalized experience. You can enjoy a custom itinerary that suits your interests and travel goals. The pace is flexible, allowing adjustments based on your comfort level. A dedicated guide and porter provide individual attention, ensuring a comfortable and tailored journey. This option is ideal for those seeking privacy, luxury, or a unique experience.
Group trekking is a more social and cost-effective option. Costs are shared among participants, making it budget-friendly. It’s a great way to meet and bond with fellow trekkers who share similar interests. However, group treks follow fixed schedules and pre-planned routes, which may limit flexibility. This option works best for those who enjoy camaraderie and don’t mind a structured plan.
Conclusion
The Everest 3 Passes Trek in Nepal is a thrilling adventure through Nepal's stunning Himalayas. With proper preparation, including acclimatization and essential gear, you can enjoy breathtaking views and cultural insights. Whether you choose private or group trekking, this challenging journey offers unforgettable experiences for adventure seekers.
