If you’re looking for the ultimate trekking experience in the Everest region, the Everest Three High Passes Trek – 17 Days delivers a challenge like no other. This 17-day adventure is not just a journey through the shadows of the world’s tallest mountains—it’s a test of endurance, a feast for the soul, and a window into Sherpa culture and remote Himalayan life.
Unlike standard Everest Base Camp treks, the Three Passes route is designed for seasoned trekkers who want more—more mountains, more solitude, and more altitude. Crossing three dramatic high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—this circuit offers a 360-degree Himalayan experience.
Why Choose the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The Three High Passes Trek is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding routes in Nepal. While it includes a visit to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and the famous viewpoint of Kala Patthar, it also leads you off the beaten path into lesser-traveled sections of the Khumbu. You’ll traverse glacier fields, stay in tiny Sherpa villages, and climb above 5,000 meters not once, but three times.
This trek is for those who want the complete Everest experience—not just to see Everest, but to feel the wildness and vastness of the Himalayas from every angle.z
Major Highlights
- Conquer three iconic high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La
- Visit Everest Base Camp and climb Kala Patthar (5,545m) for jaw-dropping sunrise views of Mount Everest
- Explore the Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for sweeping panoramas
- Trek through remote valleys, high plateaus, and ancient glacier fields
- Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture in villages like Namche Bazaar, Thame, and Dingboche
- Witness unmatched views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and more
17-Day Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary (Overview)
Day 1: Fly to Lukla (2,840m), Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
A thrilling flight into the world’s most famous mountain airstrip starts the journey. From Lukla, you’ll descend to the quiet riverside village of Phakding.
Day 2: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing high suspension bridges before a long climb to the vibrant Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day in Namche
Spend the day acclimatizing. Short hikes to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung offer great vistas and help your body adjust to the altitude.
Day 4: Trek to Tengboche (3,867m)
A scenic hike leads to Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region, with Everest and Ama Dablam standing tall in the background.
Day 5: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)
The path winds past Pangboche and into the alpine landscapes of Dingboche, where the mountains seem impossibly close.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Rest and explore the surrounding ridges. Hike up Nangkartshang Peak for stunning views of Makalu and Lhotse.
Day 7: Trek to Chhukung (4,730m)
The trail continues to the small village of Chhukung, the base for crossing Kongma La, with incredible views of glaciers and rocky cliffs.
Day 8: Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m), Trek to Lobuche (4,940m)
A long, demanding day. The first pass, Kongma La, involves steep climbs and glacier crossings, but the rewards—epic views—are well worth the effort.
Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), Return to Gorakshep (5,170m)
Reach the legendary base camp of the world’s highest mountain. After exploring the area, return to Gorakshep for the night.
Day 10: Climb Kala Patthar, Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)
Before dawn, hike up Kala Patthar for a golden sunrise over Everest. Then descend and head toward Dzongla, a quiet village on the route to Cho La.
Day 11: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m), Trek to Thangnak (4,700m)
Cho La presents another high-altitude challenge with a glacier crossing and rocky descent into the Gokyo Valley.
Day 12: Trek to Gokyo (4,790m)
A relatively short day leads to Gokyo, a dreamlike village beside turquoise lakes. The surrounding landscape is unreal.
Day 13: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,360m), Rest in Gokyo
Ascend Gokyo Ri in the early morning for one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas—from Everest Three High Passes Trek – 17 Days to Cho Oyu and countless others.
Day 14: Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m), Trek to Lungden (4,380m)
The final pass, Renjo La, offers pristine alpine beauty and less-traveled trails. Descend into the quiet Bhote Koshi Valley.
Day 15: Trek to Thame (3,800m)
Thame is a historic village and home to famous mountaineers. Explore its monastery and serene surroundings.
Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Reconnect with the main trail as you head back to Namche, where comfort and civilization await.
Day 17: Trek to Lukla
The final stretch of your journey leads back to Lukla. Celebrate the end of an epic adventure!
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Three Passes Trek are:
- Spring (March–May): Clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons.
- Autumn (September–November): Crisp air and unbeatable mountain visibility.
Winter (Dec–Feb) is possible but extremely cold. Monsoon season (June–August) is not recommended due to rain and poor visibility.
Is This Trek for You?
This is a physically demanding trek, suitable for experienced hikers or those who have trained for high-altitude conditions. You’ll be trekking above 5,000 meters on multiple days, often over rugged terrain and in remote locations.
Preparation, mental strength, and proper acclimatization are key. But the payoff is immense—a trek that pushes your limits and rewards you with some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on earth.
Final Thoughts
The Everest Three High Passes Trek – 17 Days is a true Himalayan odyssey, offering not just a trek but a transformational journey. It challenges your body, inspires your mind, and fills your heart with memories that will last a lifetime.
For those seeking more than just Everest, this trek is the ultimate experience. Three high passes, one giant adventure.
