Zenith Treks & Expedition Blog
Everest Three Higher Pass Trek
Everest Three Passes Trek: The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure Guide
If you are looking for an adventure beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route, the Everest Three Passes Trek is the ultimate Himalayan journey. Crossing three challenging high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—this circuit trek offers a comprehensive loop around the Khumbu region, combining raw wilderness, turquoise glacial lakes, and unmatched views of four 8,000-meter peaks.
This ultimate guide covers everything you need to plan your trek, including a tested 18-day itinerary, detailed cost estimates, permit requirements, high-pass difficulty ratings, and safety advice.
Quick Trek Overview
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Total Distance | Approx. 160 – 170 km (100–105 miles) |
Trek Duration | 16 to 19 Days |
Maximum Altitude | 5,644m (Kala Patthar) / 5,535m (Kongma La Pass) |
Trek Difficulty | Strenuous / Challenging |
Best Seasons | Autumn (Sept–Nov) & Spring (March–May) |
Required Permits | Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit & Sagarmatha National Park Permit |
Why Choose the Everest Three Passes Trek?
- Three High Mountain Passes: Experience the challenge of crossing Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La in a single continuous circuit.
- The Pristine Gokyo Lakes: Marvel at the vibrant turquoise glacial lakes and cross Nepal’s largest glacier, the Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Includes Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: You don't miss out on the bucket-list spots—EBC (5,364m) and Kala Patthar (5,644m) are fully integrated into the itinerary.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Serenity: Leave behind the crowded main trails as you navigate through quiet valleys like Thame, Lungden, and Chhukhung.
Detailed 18-Day Anti-Clockwise Itinerary
Pro Tip: Trekking counter-clockwise allows for superior altitude acclimatization before hitting the highest pass (Kongma La).
- Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla (2,860m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m) | 3-4 hours
- Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) | 5-6 hours
- Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar | Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m)
- Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche / Deboche (3,860m) | 5 hours
- Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m) | 5 hours
- Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche | Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m)
- Day 7: Dingboche to Chhukhung (4,730m) | 3 hours
- Day 8: Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m) to Lobuche (4,940m) | 8-9 hours (Pass 1)
- Day 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,164m) & Hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) | 6-7 hours
- Day 10: Early Hike to Kala Patthar (5,644m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m) | 7 hours
- Day 11: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) to Thagnak (4,700m) | 7-8 hours (Pass 2)
- Day 12: Thagnak to Gokyo (4,790m) | 3-4 hours across Ngozumpa Glacier
- Day 13: Morning Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Rest in Gokyo | Panoramas of Cho Oyu, Lhotse, & Everest
- Day 14: Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m) to Marlung / Lungden (4,210m) | 7-8 hours (Pass 3)
- Day 15: Lungden to Thame (3,800m) | 4-5 hours
- Day 16: Thame to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) | 4 hours
- Day 17: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,860m) | 6-7 hours
- Day 18: Flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu / Manthali
The Three High Passes Breakdown
1. Kongma La Pass (5,535m / 18,159ft)
- Terrain: Loose scree, steep boulders, and glacial terrain.
- Highlights: Raw wilderness, views of Pokalde, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
- Verdict: The highest and physically most demanding of the three passes.
2. Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft)
- Terrain: Steep rock scrambles, icy slopes, and a flat glacier walk.
- Highlights: Direct connection between Everest Base Camp and the Gokyo Valley.
- Verdict: Microspikes are frequently required due to the icy surface on the glacier.
3. Renjo La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft)
- Terrain: Well-paved stone steps leading down into the quiet Bhote Koshi Valley.
- Highlights: Panoramic view of Everest and Gokyo Lake framing the skyline.
- Verdict: Visually stunning and considered the most accessible pass of the three.
Estimated Cost Breakdown (2026 Updated)
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
Required Permits (Both) | ~$50 USD |
Flights (Kathmandu/Manthali – Lukla Roundtrip) | ~$400 - $450 USD |
Teahouse Lodging & Meals | $35 - $50 USD per day |
Licensed Guide | $30 - $35 USD per day |
Porter (Optional but recommended) | $20 - $25 USD per day |
Total Estimated Budget (18 Days) | $1,500 – $2,200 USD |
Required Permits & Logistics
To trek the Three Passes route, you need two official permits:
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: NPR 3,000 (~$23 USD) per person, obtainable in Lukla or Monjo.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 (~$23 USD) + 13% VAT, obtainable at Monjo or the Department of National Parks counter in Kathmandu.
Essential Packing List Highlights
- Footwear: Broken-in high-ankle trekking boots and microspikes (essential for icy pass traverses).
- Clothing: Thermal layers, down jacket (-15°C rating), windproof shell pants and jacket.
- Gear: 30–40L daypack, 4-season sleeping bag (-15°C rated), trekking poles, and polarized UV sunglasses.
- Safety & Hydration: Water purification tablets, basic first-aid kit with Diamox (altitude medicine), and power banks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How hard is the Everest Three Passes Trek compared to EBC?
The Three Passes Trek is significantly more demanding than standard Everest Base Camp. You cross three passes over 5,300m, trek across glaciers, and endure longer daily walking hours (up to 9 hours on pass days). Excellent physical fitness is mandatory.
Do I need microspikes for the Three Passes Trek?
Yes, microspikes or light crampons are essential, especially when crossing the Cho La Pass glacier and cold icy stretches near Kongma La.
When is the best time to attempt the Three Passes Trek?
The prime seasons are Autumn (September to November) for crisp skies and stable weather, and Spring (March to May) for warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons. Winter brings heavy snowfall that often closes the high passes.
Final Thoughts
The Everest Three Passes Trek offers an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Khumbu Himalayas. Respect the altitude, schedule dedicated acclimatization days, and travel with a licensed local guide to safely navigate this bucket-list circuit.