Everest Three Passes Trek - 18 days

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best trekking seasons to take on the Everest Three Passes Trek. These seasons provide the stability you need for crossing high mountain passes like Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. Similarly, the clear skies let you spot weather changes early on. This helps you descend quickly and avoid getting trapped on exposed ridges. You’ll trek through fewer frozen trails because of the daytime temperatures around 12–15°C, hence safer footing. The thinner snowpack ultimately makes the passes more navigable. Additionally, they bring in long daylight hours (10–11 hours) so that you get enough time to complete strenuous sections without rushing.

In contrast, winter brings in knee-deep snow that buries trail markers. As a result, the pass crossings become dangerous or outright impassable, with avalanches being a constant threat on their steep slopes. Likewise, in the summer, monsoon rains turn rocky paths into slippery streams, trigger landslides and floods, and clouds block the mountain views you trekked so far to see. These unpredictable weather conditions make timing the three-pass crossings a gamble. Both seasons are risky and not recommended unless you’re a seasoned trekker looking for a real challenge.

Read More: Restricted and Challenging Treks In Nepal

The difficulty level of the Everest Three Passes Trek is moderate to challenging. For the veteran and experienced trekkers, the trekking destination might be a bit less challenging; however, for beginners, this is among the most strenuous treks in Nepal. Several factors influence the difficulty level of the Three High Pass Trek, which are explained below:

High Risk of Altitude Sickness During Multiple Passes Above 5,000m

The high altitude is one significant factor influencing the difficulty of the Everest Three Passes Trek. In this trek, the highest elevation you will be trekking above the altitude of 5,200m for many days. Trekking in these high elevations will increase the chance of altitude sickness. Any trekkers suffering from altitude sickness will not be able to complete the trek and will need immediate medical attention.

Long Trek Duration with 6-7 Hours of Daily Walking Over 18 Days

The Everest Three Passes Trek is challenging mainly because of its long distance and duration. The total duration of this trek ranges from 15 to 18 days, and every day, trekkers have to trek for 6-7 hours to cover a lot of distance. Since the trekkers must work several hours daily for at least two weeks, it will tire them. Hence, trekkers need to increase their physical stamina.

Technical Passes and Steep, Icy Routes Like Cho La, Kongma La, and Renjo La

The EBC High Pass trek is one of the longest treks in Nepal, and when you compound it with the challenging routes that the trekkers have to pass daily, it makes the trek quite tricky. In the lower altitude, the trekking route can be more accessible; however, as the altitude increases, trekkers must pass through rocky valleys, steep ascents, glacial moraines, and slippery, snowy mountains. Naturally, trekkers will find it hard to trek in these trekking conditions easily.

Unpredictable Weather and Flight or Trail Delays in the Khumbu Region

Trekking in the Khumbu region, also known as the Everest region, can be difficult because the weather can be unpredictable. If you’re trekking during the off-season, be careful. The weather can make the Everest Three Passes trek more challenging. Even though the weather is usually good during the peak season, it can freeze at night, dropping below freezing. So, it’s important to pack lots of layers and warm clothes. Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla might be canceled if the weather is bad because it’s essential to have safe conditions for landing. When trekking in the Everest region, it’s wise to plan for extra days to allow for possible weather delays and ensure your trek goes smoothly.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. The trek difficulty ranges from moderate to challenging, even for those with prior trekking experience. However, it is crucial to know if the trek is suitable for you. Here are some factors to consider to know if this trek suits you.

High Trek Cost for Flights, Permits, and Remote Logistics

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most expensive treks in Nepal due to the high cost of flights to Lukla and the remote nature of the Khumbu region. It costs USD 1,920 per person; however, the price can be reduced to USD 1,250 if you do a private group trek. It is costlier than the standard EBC trek, but still more budget-friendly than the Everest Luxury Trek, the remote Upper Mustang trek, or some mountaineering expeditions. You can also decrease the overall cost of the trek by trekking in less ideal trekking conditions.

Health Requirements for Multiple Passes Above 5,000m

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging but adventurous treks. This trek takes you to an altitude of over 5,000m, which might suit some people but not others. Trekking at high altitude is not ideal for individuals with pre-existing lung or heart conditions or those who experience difficulty breathing. So, if you have that medical condition, it is wise to consult your doctor first, but this trek might not suit you if the issue is critical.

Time Commitment of 18 Days for Full Trek

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is one of the longest treks in Nepal. Naturally, this trek’s duration is 18 days. So, if you don’t commit to spending about two weeks on your trekking days, this is not for you. While it may be possible to shorten the trek by skipping acclimatization days, we do not recommend it due to the high risk of severe altitude sickness that could force you to end your trek prematurely.

If you want to know why this trek is exciting even though it’s tough, you can explore Triple Thrills on the Everest Three Passes Trek to learn more.

After a short flight to Lukla, there are a few ways to approach the Everest Three Passes trek, including clockwise and anticlockwise routes. This trek will follow the anticlockwise route, beginning with a gentle descent along the Dudh Koshi River towards Phakding village. This path is well-traveled and takes you through lush pine and rhododendron forests and several iconic suspension bridges. You pass by smaller, charming Sherpa villages and mani stones, where you get your first glimpses of the stunning mountainous scenery and lifestyle.

The trail then continues with a climb to the busy town of Namche Bazaar, where you must acclimate for a day to the higher altitude. From here, you ascend through the Imja Khola valley toward spiritual hubs like Tengboche and Dingboche. This section of the trek leads you away from the main Everest Base Camp route, and the landscape opens up into broad, alpine valleys.

As you approach the three high passes, Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, the terrain opens to dramatic glacial valleys, rugged ridges, and sweeping Himalayan panoramas. The route eventually descends back via Namche and Lukla, completing the full circuit, while offering you a continuous sense of remoteness, high-altitude adventure, and immersion in the Sherpa way of life.

• Stunning high-altitude trek, which consists of fun, thrill, and adventure. Trekking has a particular risk, but the reward is inspiring and motivating.
• One of the significant reasons for trekking the three high passes trek is to explore the amazing Gokyo Valley and get closer to the Gokyo Lakes.
• One of the primary reasons that make the Three Pass term attractive is to visit the Everest Base Camp, Gorakhstep, and hike towards Kala Patthar for the stunning views of the mountains.
• For wildlife lovers, the EBC 3 Passes trek can be attractive as you will pass through Sagarmatha National Park, where you will get the chance to see some of the rare floras and faunas like Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, and others.
• Trekking the Khumbu region and reaching EBC camp is quite an achievement, and when you go further and conquer the three passes, your sense of accomplishment is quite high.

The Everest Three-Pass Trek cost starts from USD 1,250 to 1,950 based on the number of trekkers in the group. The more people in the trekking group, the price per person decreases considerably, and vice versa. Furthermore, the Everest Three Passes Trek is among the toughest treks in Nepal, which is why trekking with groups, guides, and porters is recommended.

The Everest Three Passes Trek’s overall cost also depends on other common factors such as meals, accommodation, transportation, guides’ fees, porters’ fees, guides and porter tips, etc. So, before planning for the trek, you might need to consider your budget and determine which trek you need, whether budget-friendly or luxurious. Moreover, before booking the trek, compare the costs of many other trekking companies and check for discounts, concessions, etc.

Often, trekking companies provide discounts, free services, amenities, etc, during the festivals, special occasions, or the anniversaries of the trekking agency. So look for deals and other aspects that decrease the overall amount before booking the trek. However, trekkers must focus not only on discounts but also on the reputation and ratings of the trekking agency.

Accommodations play a vital role in high-altitude trekking, such as the Everest Three Passes Trek. It is where you will spend your acclimatization or resting time and eat your meals. Hence, learning about all the accommodation options from lower to higher altitudes is necessary. You can get more comfortable or semi-luxurious teahouses in lower-altitude towns like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Phakding. However, as you trek higher to Dingboche, Chukung, and Gokyo, they become more basic, with only minimal facilities.

In most of the treks, the trekkers will stay in teahouses. The teahouses are tiny houses with expansive rooms and twin beds. In the teahouses, trekkers have to share the bed, and since it has an attached bathroom, they also have to share the bathroom. The teahouses will give you all the items, like pillows, blankets, bedsheets, etc, to make your sleep warm and cozy. However, it is also wise to carry your sleeping bags to make it more comfortable.

Drinking plenty of water is essential for high-elevation treks like this to provide your body with adequate fluids and prevent sickness. You can request a drinking water refill at the tea houses or lunch stops. The primary drinking water sources at high altitudes are taps and handle pumps, which are unsuitable for drinking water. So it is wise to request the teahouses to filter and boil the water before drinking. You may have to pay extra to the teahouse for their services.

Some places might charge extra for hot water. Similarly, you will also find drinking water taps throughout the lower segments of the trail. Similarly, freshwater streams are plenty on the way to refill your bottles. Keep purification tablets with you to be extra safe while drinking water here. Mineral water will be available at every lodge, and the cost will be a minimum of $1 & maximum of $4 for a bottle.

Everest 3 High Passes Trek occurs at high elevations, and your body needs enough nutrition. We ensure that you get enough nutritious food throughout the trek.  During the trek, each day, the trekkers will have three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The guides hand-select the lodges for fresh, hygienic, tasty, and nutritious food.

Breakfast

Breakfast is an essential meal of the day as it is the first one. There are several menus for breakfast, such as eggs, chapati, bread, soups, toast, etc. During high altitudes, many trekkers often skip breakfast to start the trek early, which is not ideal and should not be considered. In the initial portion of the trek, trekkers have to cover more distance; breakfast is essential for the initial burst of energy.

Lunch and Dinner

Lunch and dinner are also crucial during trekking, as trekkers need to consume food with carbohydrates and proteins. The menus for lunch and dinner are somewhat similar. When you visit, try Nepali dishes like Dal (lentil), Bhat (rice), Tarkari (curry), Momos (dumplings), and Chowmein (noodles). Drinking plenty of liquids such as green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, and garlic soup is essential. Eating fresh vegetables is also recommended. In trek regions, non-veg items are available, but we don’t recommend them due to hygiene concerns. Dairy items, alcoholic drinks, caffeinated items, and hot chocolates should be avoided. The menu offers traditional, Asian, and Western food, but it becomes shorter as the altitude increases and you reach the remote areas.

Internet and phone connectivity are essential in high-altitude remote treks like the Everest Three Passes Trek. Connecting with your loved ones or a trekking agency is necessary. For internet access, the Everest region has been primarily served by Everest Link since 2014. You can purchase data cards at the teahouses on the trail, which offer various packages (e.g, a 10GB card costs around $20). The signal is generally good enough for messaging and basic browsing, but may be unreliable for video calls or streaming.

The phone network, however, is not available at all parts of the trek. While mobile connections from providers like Ncell and NTC work well in lower sections, coverage becomes very poor or non-existent in high-elevation areas like the passes and valleys. Therefore, your only reliable communication option at the highest points will be a satellite phone, which you can rent.

Quick insight: Teahouses charge additional costs (around $2-$5 per hour) to charge your electronic devices.

Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal. However, it is also one of the most challenging treks as well. The trek is attractive to many trekkers for the stunning view of the mountains, valleys, etc, but there is a certain level of difficulty, which is why trekkers need to pay attention to their safety. The trekkers must prepare for the trek before and during the trek.

The most important thing to prepare for a high-altitude trek like the Everest Three Pass trek is to know that the trek is challenging and that many factors increase difficulty levels, like altitude sickness, rugged terrains, dynamic weather, etc. To tackle each of these problems, the trekkers must prepare it beforehand. For altitude sickness, they must learn how to acclimatize correctly; they must be physically fit to tackle the difficulty, so it’s essential to raise the stamina level by engaging in some exercises that focus on increasing cardio level and overall strength.

The best time to trek the Everest Three High Passes is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is generally stable and the views are clear. However, the monsoon season (June to August) can also be a good time to go, as the trails are less crowded and the scenery is lush and green.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is widely considered the most challenging route in the Everest region. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp Trek, this journey is a more demanding circuit that requires you to consecutively cross three high-altitude passes and climb viewpoints like Gokyo Ri. The continuous series of strenuous ascents and descents over passes like Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La sets it apart.

The trek’s difficulty is compounded by prolonged exposure to extreme altitude, as you spend several days above 5,000 meters. Thus, the risk of altitude sickness is higher than in other treks. Additionally, you trek in the more remote sections that have rougher terrain than the main trekking highway, demanding a higher level of physical endurance.

While it is the most demanding in its region, it is not the most challenging trek in all of Nepal. Treks to the remote areas like Kanchenjunga or Dolpo are often considered more difficult due to their extreme isolation and technical terrain than the Everest Three Passes.

The highest point of the Everest Three Passes Trek is the KongLa Ma Pass. This pass is at an elevation of 5535 meters, the highest point the trekkers will reach during this trek. To achieve the highest elevation of the trek, the trekkers pass through the tough, challenging terrains of the Kong La Ma pass. Several opportunities to trek above the 5000m include Cho La Pass and Renjo La Pass.

The Three Pass Trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, where the trekkers will pass through some difficult atmosphere, but the reward is worth it. To complete the Three Pass trek, the trekkers must be physically trained and have good endurance. The trekkers must also have decent mental stability so they don’t crumble under the pressure.

Everest Three Passes Trekking is one of Nepal’s most fun and challenging treks. However, this trek can be attractive to people with specific personal preferences. For trekkers who have not experienced it, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a true high-altitude challenge with less-traveled paths that test both physical and mental endurance. Thus, you have a sense of accomplishment unlike any other journey. Here are some things you can expect from the Everest High Passes Trek:

• Majestic Three High Passes: The trek will take you across the iconic Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La, each with its own unique challenges and rewards.
• A Gallery of Himalayan Giants: You can witness the majestic views of several of the world’s highest peaks, including Mt Everest (8849m), Ama Dablam (6856m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Lhotse (8516m), Nuptse (7861m), and Pumori (7165m).
• An Unparalleled Sense of Accomplishment: After overcoming all the difficult passes and remote terrain, you will feel an immense sense of pride.
• Sherpa Cultural Experience: You get a more authentic Sherpa culture in the lesser-visited villages, visit ancient monasteries, and experience their unique hospitality.
• Variety of Scenery: The trek offers a journey through lush forests, serene river valleys, high alpine pastures, and stark, rocky glacial landscapes with fewer crowds.
• A Transformative Journey: Beyond the physical challenges, the trek is a gratifying experience that will leave you with a profound sense of accomplishment and inner strength.

• 5 AM—6 AM: You can start your day on the EBC trek by waking up early at the teahouse where you stayed. The trek begins from around 5 AM to 6 AM, and you can enjoy a tasty local breakfast with a breathtaking view of the region’s mountains, peaks, and valleys.
• 7 AM—8 AM: Get ready for the hike after breakfast. Pack essential items and wear layers of clothes suitable for the altitude. Prepare a separate handbag for things you’ll need along the way, like snacks, chocolates, water bottles, and sunglasses.
• 8 AM to 12 or 1 PM: You will start hiking around 8 or 9 AM, depending on when you wake up. This part of the hike usually takes 4-5 hours. After walking for that long, it will be time for lunch, depending on your plan.
• 12 PM to 1 PM: You’ll have an hour-long break for lunch and relaxation. The guide or trekking agency will bring you to a suitable teahouse for lunch, where you can enjoy local dishes like Dal and Bhat and Western options such as pizzas, burgers, and spaghetti at some teahouses.
• 1 PM to 4 PM: After resting and having lunch, we walk in the afternoon. This walk takes 4-5 hours. Because we might be tired, we will walk a short distance and stroll around. We will visit different villages, old temples, monasteries, etc., and the sun’s light cast shadows on the mountain towns when it gets darker.
• 4 PM to 5 PM: It’s evening and time to go to the teahouse. It’s best to go before sunset when there’s still light outside.
• 5 PM to 7 PM: You can put your bags in your room when you arrive in the village. Relax by the fire with a hot cup of tea or coffee and chat with the locals. You can also ask for internet access to connect with your loved ones, explore the villages, visit local temples and monasteries, and meet local people.
• 7 PM to 8 PM: It’s time for dinner. You may have local meals, but some teahouses offer Western options, too. Join everyone for dinner, as it’s a great time to share stories and socialize.
• 8 PM to 10 PM: It’s essential to head to bed early after dinner. You have a tough day of trekking tomorrow, so getting a good night’s rest is wise. Wish your crew goodnight and try to fall asleep quickly to give your body and mind the rest they need.

To trek in the Everest region, you need a few permits. For every trekker wishing to hike, the EBC needs at least two permits: the Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Municipality permits. Trekking the EBC via Jiri also requires another license in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area permit. Before the application for the municipality permit, every trekker must issue the TIMS card, which is now optional, so let’s get into them.

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Everest Base Camp lies in the middle of one of Nepal’s most prestigious national parks, Sagarmatha National Park. First, trekkers must get a Sagarmatha National Park permit from the Nepal Tourism Board or Monjo’s Sagarmatha National Park entrance gate. It costs NPR 3000 per person and supports park conservation.

Khumbu Municipality Permit

To begin your trek in the Khumbu region, you must obtain a permit from Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality. This permit is required for all visitors to the area. You can get the license at the Lukla Checkpoint on your first day of trekking or at the Monjo checkpoint if you are trekking through Jiri or Salleri. The cost of the Khumbu Municipality permit is approximately $16.

Gaurishankar Trekking Permit

If you’re traveling to Everest Base Camp from Jiri, you may need a permit for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area. To begin your journey, take a bus or private car to Jiri, which is a 7 to 8-hour trip from Kathmandu. Once in Jiri, obtain the permit, and you can start your hike to Everest Base Camp. You can purchase the license in Shivalaya or the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. The Gaurishankar Conservation Area permit costs $16 or NPR 2000.

TIMS Card

When trekking in Nepal, you can get a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card from the Nepal Tourism Board or a TIMS counter in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This card allows you to track your movements and receive emergency support in some areas of Nepal. If trekking independently, getting permits for the three passes (Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La) from the Nepal Tourism Board or the entrance gates to each pass is necessary.

When you go high up in the mountains, the air gets thinner, and it has less oxygen. This can make you feel sick. You might feel this way if you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp. The condition of falling ill during the high altitude trek is called Altitude Sickness. It is also known as the Acute Mountain Sickness. The altitude sickness can be mild or severe. Simple altitude sickness symptoms can be nausea, vomiting, headache, fever, coughing, tiredness, shortness of breath etc. To help your body get used to the high altitude, you’ll have some rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Some people might get sick, but most don’t. Tell your guides if you have a headache, nausea, or trouble breathing.  Here are some of the remedies for the altitude sickness:

• Proper acclimatization is the best remedy for acute mountain sickness. Ascend and Descend gradually, and do not rush towards the altitude.
• Make sure you are trekking high, but you are lowering altitude for sleep. This practice will minimize the chance of altitude sickness.
• Keep yourself hydrated all the time. Dehydration is another major cause of altitude sickness. Drink at least 7 to 8 liters of water every day.
• Avoid taking caffeinated products or alcohol during the trek as they cause dehydration.
• Take medicines like Diamox during the high-altitude trek, which can give you instant relief from altitude sickness.
• If the symptoms persist, immediately lower the altitude, and let your guides know if the condition develops serious.

The Everest Three Pass Trek is quite challenging as trekkers have to trek for several days, and each day, they have to trek for 7 hours to cover more distance. Hence, there is a high probability that the trekkers can get fatigued if they are not physically fit. Being physically fit and raising your endurance level of physicality will help you cover more distance and not leave your trekking crew hanging. Here are specific ways to improve your physical fitness.

Cardiovascular exercises are the best way to make your core strong and give you an uplift in your stamina. Exercises like jogging, swimming, running, and hiking with backpacks are the best way to raise your physical fitness.
Strength Exercises: Staying strong before trekking is crucial so you can carry your heavy baggage and trek for a long time.
Breathing Exercises: It is important to breathe fresh air during your expedition in the high altitude. These breathing exercises, like yoga, meditation, etc., can also raise physical fitness.

In the lower altitude city areas, there are banks, money exchanges, and ATM cards, which you can use to exchange or withdraw cash. However, it is not as accessible in the remote Sherpa villages. Namche is the Sherpa hub where many services are available, so you can withdraw money or exchange cash, but make sure you carry extra cash.

When traveling to rural areas of the trek, please be aware that cards are not accepted. Carrying enough cash with you is recommended, especially in the higher elevation areas of Khumbu. ATMs, banks, and money exchange services are available at Kathmandu, Lukla, and Namche Bazaar. Planning wisely for the upcoming week while you are in Namche is essential.

Travel Insurance is very important for travelers or trekkers, especially those heading to different countries for the adventure in the Himalayas. The main reason for issuing travel insurance for these adventure treks is to prevent the trekkers from incurring additional expenses during the trek. For this trek, the travel insurance must cover the high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation, saving them thousands of dollars if anything unforeseen happens.

Travel insurance covers medical expenses, luggage loss, property damage, flight cancellations, personal liability, etc. However, keep in mind there are certain expenses that travel insurance does not cover, and they are prior medical conditions, expensive jewelry, private items, injuries due to risky activities, or drug abuse.

We are experienced. Our team has managed treks in the Everest region for well over two decades.
* Our guides are fluent in English, Nepali, and Local Sherpa dialects. They know the terrain, culture, people, and the Sagarmatha national park through & through.
* HST will provide you best value services for your money. No hidden cost, every step with HST is transparent and clear. We value our clients over profit any day.
* Your safety is the top priority while trekking with the HST team.
* We go the extra mile to assure you of a complete trekking experience in Nepal. HST is your ideal choice for trekking in Nepal.

Here is a general gear checklist for the on-season trek.

Upper Body: –

A long-sleeve thermal base layer

• Trekking shirt
• Insulation layer
• fleece jacket
• Warm Down Jacket
• Gloves
• Waterproof jacket
• T-Shirt lightweight

Head: –

• Beanies and ear warmers
• Sunhat & Scarf
• Headlights with extra batteries

Face: –

• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Sunscreen
• Dust Masks
• Lip Balm
• Face /Body wipe

legs & Boots: –

• Trekking Pants, two pairs
• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking boots
• Sport Shoes
• Gaiters
• Crampons (If snow or Ice)
• Slippers
• Thermal Leggins
• Underwear & thick Socks

Essentials Gear: –

• Trekking pole
• Sleeping bag
• Towels
• Raincoat
• Water bottle
• Backpack or Day pack

Toiletries: –

• Quick-drying towel
• Toilet paper
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• soap
• Shampoo
• Small mirror
• Nail cutter
• Personal accessories: –

Money
Camera
Phone
Watch
Power bank
Extra batteries for the Camera

Extra: –

Diary & Pen
Books
Extra Passport copy and Photos
Binocular
Firsts Aid Kits

Note: The above list can be customized per the trekkers’ seasons and necessities.