The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most thrilling and challenging treks in Nepal. It is perfect for adventure lovers who want to see not just Mount Everest, but many other giant peaks while crossing high mountain passes.
This trek covers three of the highest and most famous passes in the Everest region: Kongma La Pass (5,535m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360m). Along the way, trekkers visit beautiful valleys, traditional Sherpa villages, and famous places like Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes.
Starting the Trek
The journey usually starts with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small airstrip on a steep hillside. From Lukla, you begin walking through charming villages like Phakding and then reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Khumbu region. Namche is a good place to rest and get used to the high altitude.
After acclimatizing in Namche, the real adventure begins. Unlike the regular Everest Base Camp Trek, the Three Passes Trek takes you on a longer and more challenging path through the wild parts of the Everest region.
The Three Passes
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Kongma La Pass (5,535m):
This is usually the first and highest pass. It is steep and tough, but the views are incredible. You can see Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and many other giant peaks. After crossing Kongma La, you descend towards Lobuche, close to Everest Base Camp. -
Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar:
After Kongma La, most trekkers visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) to stand close to the world’s tallest mountain. Many also climb Kala Patthar (5,545m) for a jaw-dropping sunrise view of Everest and surrounding peaks. -
Cho La Pass (5,420m):
Next is Cho La Pass, another tough climb that takes you over a glacier. After crossing Cho La, you reach Gokyo, a beautiful valley known for its clear blue lakes. -
Renjo La Pass (5,360m):
The last of the three passes is Renjo La. The climb is steep, but once you reach the top, you are rewarded with one of the best panoramic views in the entire Everest region. You can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes below.
After crossing Renjo La, you slowly make your way down to Thame village and eventually back to Namche Bazaar and Lukla.
Highlights of the Trek
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Cross three challenging and beautiful high passes
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Visit Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for close-up Everest views
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See the amazing Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for a stunning sunrise
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Explore remote valleys and traditional Sherpa villages
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Experience the rich culture of the Khumbu region
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Witness some of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Everest Three High Passes Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is usually clear, and the mountain views are at their best. Trekking in winter is possible but very cold, while the monsoon season brings heavy rain and slippery trails.
Difficulty and Preparation
This trek is considered very challenging. It is longer and harder than the standard Everest Base Camp trek. Trekkers must cross high passes where the air is thin and the weather can change quickly. You should be physically fit, mentally strong, and have some experience with multi-day hikes.
Acclimatization days are very important to avoid altitude sickness. Walking slowly, drinking plenty of water, and listening to your body are key.
Hiring an experienced guide or porter is highly recommended for safety, especially in the high mountain passes.
Final Thoughts
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a true adventure. It takes you through some of the most beautiful and wild parts of the Everest region. You see the world’s highest mountains, cross icy passes, and experience the warm culture of the Sherpa people.
It’s a tough trek, but for those who complete it, the rewards are endless — breathtaking views, unforgettable memories, and the pride of completing one of the greatest treks on Earth.