The Everest Three Passes Trek in Nepal’s Everest Region has become more popular after being featured by many international sites and magazines (such as The New York Times). It is one of the less crowded, off-the-beaten-path treks in the Khumbu Region. Many travelers hike to Everest Base Camp (EBC) every day, while far fewer hikers choose the Three Passes route.
The Three Passes Trek is a high-altitude circuit trail that crosses three of the Everest Region’s highest mountain passes and, at times, intersects the standard EBC route. More information regarding this route is provided below.
Why Choose the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The Three Pass circuit trail in the Everest Region includes some of the major destinations such as Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Kala Patthar, Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. So you will see the same places as on the standard EBC trail, but with many additional bonuses!
- It is remote and off-the-beaten-path. Only 5-10% of the 45,000 EBC trekkers follow the Everest Three Pass Trek. So you can enjoy the scenery without too many tourists!
- On this trail, expect to be surrounded by four of the world’s highest mountains, including Mt. Everest. Not to mention that the three high passes are all above 5,000 m (16,404 ft). Very few places on Earth have this combination!
- The Three Passes Trek offers a lot more side trips than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek. You can spend more than 3 weeks and venture into different places.
- It is the only trekking trail in the entire Khumbu Region that follows a complete circuit. Unlike the classic Everest Base Camp trail, every day is a new trail as you make a loop on this trek.
- It is part of the Great Himalaya Trail (GHT). The Three Pass Trek is one of the major sections of the Great Himalaya Trail. The GHT is a long-distance trekking route stretching approximately 1,700 km (1,056 mi) across Nepal from east to west. Check out this cool short video from Luca and Liz.
Where Does the Everest Three Passes Trek Start?
This trek starts from Lukla (you will need to fly from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla), a small mountain town with a small airport. Statistically speaking, Lukla Airport (also called Tenzing Hillary Airport) is often considered one of the world’s most challenging airports, primarily because of its weather, altitude, and the short, sloping runway. But don’t worry, this is the usual jump-off point for most Everest treks and expeditions, and thousands of people safely fly in and out every year.
After two or three days following the classic EBC trail from Lukla to Namche, the Three Passes Trek takes you to Thame or Dingboche, depending on the route you choose.
How many days will this take? For a hiker with some basic trekking experience, this can be completed in about 3 weeks (17 to 21 days), depending on the itinerary, acclimatization days, side trips, and walking pace.
Which Route Should You Take?
There are several options to take, but it is best to follow the trail that gradually gains altitude. In fact, the Three Passes Trek is well known for being off the beaten path in the Everest Region. The route from Namche to Thame (clockwise route) takes you to the first high pass in just two days. This could be risky, given that the altitudes of these passes exceed 5,000 m (16,404 ft). If you choose this route, it is highly recommended to have one acclimatization day in Mirlung. Although some travel bloggers have posted itineraries without a rest day, I personally see this as increasing the risk of altitude sickness.
Therefore, I always suggest trekkers take the other route from Namche, or as others refer to it, the counter-clockwise route. On this route, you follow the classic EBC trail all the way to Dingboche, then continue to the first pass, Kongma La, at 5,535 m (18,159 ft). This is a good route for acclimatization and helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The Everest Region has one of the highest rates of altitude sickness among trekking destinations due to its high elevations. We advise you to take as many acclimatization and side trip hikes as possible to help ensure you complete your trek safely.
Trek Route Map
Click on the map below to explore the full Everest Three Passes Trek route. Use the zoom controls in the top-left corner to zoom in or out and view the trail, villages, mountain passes, and major landmarks in greater detail.
Itinerary
Planning your daily route is one of the most important parts of preparing for the Everest Three Passes Trek. The itinerary below is designed by our local trekking experts to help you gain altitude gradually in a counter-clockwise direction, include proper acclimatization days, and safely cross the three high mountain passes of Kongma La (5,535 m / 18,159 ft), Cho La (5,420 m / 17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,360 m / 17,585 ft).
Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp Trek, this route forms a complete circuit through the Khumbu Region. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic destinations such as Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and traditional Sherpa villages while enjoying ever-changing Himalayan landscapes.
| Day | Itinerary | Major Altitude | Sleep Altitude | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu → Lukla → Phakding | Lukla – 2,840 m (9,318 ft) | 2,610 m (8,563 ft) | 8 km (5 mi) | 3–4 hrs |
| 2 | Phakding → Namche Bazaar | Namche Bazaar – 3,440 m (11,286 ft) | 3,440 m (11,286 ft) | 10–11 km (6.2–6.8 mi) | 6–7 hrs |
| 3 | Acclimatization: Namche Bazaar → Hotel Everest View → Namche Bazaar | Hotel Everest View – 3,880 m (12,730 ft) | 3,440 m (11,286 ft) | 5–6 km (3.1–3.7 mi) | 3–4 hrs |
| 4 | Namche Bazaar → Tengboche | Tengboche – 3,860 m (12,664 ft) | 3,860 m (12,664 ft) | 10–11 km (6.2–6.8 mi) | 5–6 hrs |
| 5 | Tengboche → Dingboche | Dingboche – 4,410 m (14,469 ft) | 4,410 m (14,469 ft) | 10.5–11 km (6.5–6.8 mi) | 5–6 hrs |
| 6 | Acclimatization: Dingboche → Nagarjun Hill → Dingboche | Nagarjun Hill – 5,100 m (16,732 ft) | 4,410 m (14,469 ft) | 5–6 km (3.1–3.7 mi) | 4–5 hrs |
| 7 | Dingboche → Chhukung | Chhukung – 4,730 m (15,518 ft) | 4,730 m (15,518 ft) | 5 km (3.1 mi) | 2–3 hrs |
| 8 | Chhukung → Kongma La Pass → Lobuche | Kongma La Pass – 5,535 m (18,159 ft) | 4,910 m (16,109 ft) | 11 km (6.8 mi) | 8–9 hrs |
| 9 | Lobuche → Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp → Gorak Shep | Everest Base Camp – 5,364 m (17,598 ft) | 5,140 m (16,864 ft) | 11–12 km (6.8–7.5 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 10 | Gorak Shep → Kala Patthar → Dzongla | Kala Patthar – 5,545 m (18,192 ft) | 4,830 m (15,846 ft) | 16 km (9.9 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 11 | Dzongla → Cho La Pass → Thangnak | Cho La Pass – 5,420 m (17,782 ft) | 4,700 m (15,420 ft) | 8–9 km (5–5.6 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 12 | Thangnak → Gokyo | Gokyo – 4,790 m (15,715 ft) | 4,790 m (15,715 ft) | 4 km (2.5 mi) | 3–4 hrs |
| 13 | Acclimatization: Gokyo → Gokyo Ri → Gokyo | Gokyo Ri – 5,357 m (17,575 ft) | 4,790 m (15,715 ft) | 4–5 km (2.5–3.1 mi) | 3–4 hrs |
| 14 | Gokyo → Renjo La Pass → Marlung | Renjo La Pass – 5,360 m (17,585 ft) | 4,210 m (13,812 ft) | 13–14 km (8.1–8.7 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 15 | Marlung → Thame → Namche Bazaar | Thame – 3,820 m (12,533 ft) | 3,440 m (11,286 ft) | 14–15 km (8.7–9.3 mi) | 6–7 hrs |
| 16 | Namche Bazaar → Lukla | Namche Bazaar – 3,440 m (11,286 ft) | 2,840 m (9,318 ft) | 18–19 km (11.2–11.8 mi) | 6–7 hrs |
| 17 | Lukla → Kathmandu | Kathmandu – 1,400 m (4,593 ft) | 1,400 m (4,593 ft) | Flight | 30–40 min |
How Difficult is the Three Passes Trek?
The difficulty level of the Three Passes Trek is graded 9 out of 10. So it is not an easy trek. The main challenge on the classic Everest Base Camp route is altitude sickness. For the Three Passes Trek, however, you also need to be mindful of the constantly changing weather and be prepared to walk across melting glaciers, rocky trails, and fallen rocks.
While it is an amazing experience, there are also some perils along the way, and it is important that all trekkers are aware of this. Altitude sickness and getting lost on the high passes due to the constantly changing weather are two of the most common risks, but these can be mitigated by:
- Follow the proper itinerary, which includes enough acclimatization days.
- Cover the right amount of distance and elevation each day. Above 3,000 m (9,843 ft), it is generally recommended that your sleeping altitude should not increase by more than 300–500 m (984–1,640 ft) per day, with an acclimatization day every 3–4 days.
- Always check the weather forecast.
- Choose the right trekking gear for you that is suitable for this trek.
- Give yourself some training before embarking on the trail. Even regular, basic exercises like swimming, yoga, aerobics, and running can improve your fitness and endurance, making trekking at high altitudes easier.
When is the Best Time for Three Passes Trek?
Time is crucial for this trek. Due to the high passes, the weather might be challenging. Trekking in the perfect season with perfect weather is the key to success on this trek. Typically, there are two seasons that are considered safest throughout the year.
High season (September to November and March to May)
The best time for the Everest trek is autumn. Especially from September to November, Nepal offers a clear, cloudless sky, making it possible to see stunning views of the Himalayas from any corner of the country. For this trek, I would recommend a slightly different window from mid-October to mid-December. Although all available online references suggest that September to November is best, in my experience over the past couple of years, the monsoon has continued until the second or third week of September. So this could be challenging for someone traveling in a short time frame, as the Lukla flights are always uncertain due to weather, particularly during the monsoon.
Can You Hike the Everest Three Passes Trek Independently?
The short answer is YES! You can do this trek alone or independently without a guide. In fact, there are many independent trekkers on the classic EBC route. However, on the Three Passes trail, you will find very few people trekking without a local guide, mainly because of the constantly changing weather and the trail’s crossing of a glacier. That means the trail near the glacier can change from season to season and sometimes after heavy snowfall.
The trail between Chhukung and Lobuche via Kongma La 5,535 m (18,159 ft) is one of the most challenging sections. The route across the glacier and rocky terrain can change over time, especially after snowfall or bad weather. We advise you to gather as much information as possible from locals before crossing the first pass. Do not forget to bring your own GPS device and follow the track as you walk.
Overall, although you technically can trek the Three Passes alone, we suggest that no one ever trek alone in the Himalayas, where even a simple incident can become life-threatening.
How Much Does the Three Passes Trek Cost?
This is probably the most common question from a hiker. The answer depends on which company you hire and which service you choose. There are many quotations available online; however, let me break it down to a fair price so you have an idea of how much to spend, and you will know if other companies are charging you the right price:
- Experienced English-speaking licensed guide – USD 25-30 per day
- Round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Lukla – USD 257 each way or USD 514 return
- Flight cost for the guide – USD 70 each way or USD 140 return
- National Park fee and Municipality entry fee – USD 40 per person
- Food (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) – USD 25-30 per day (excluding soft drinks, alcohol, desserts, snacks)
- Accommodation – USD 7-15 per night
The cost breakdown above may vary depending on the company you choose. An international company would definitely charge three times as much as a local company. For first-time travelers, you may normally go with international agencies because of their branding and your confidence in safety. However, I assure you that local agencies in Nepal can deliver perfect service and the same level of quality at a fraction of the price. It actually doesn’t matter whether you go with the more expensive or the cheaper ones, as everyone sleeps in the same category of teahouses. There is no such thing as a 5-star teahouse in the mountain regions. In addition, everyone in the mountains has the same quality and choice of meals.
How to Find a Good, Affordable Local Trekking Company in Nepal?
Here are some tips for finding a suitable travel company for your next adventure. Some of my suggestions below could save you a couple of hundred dollars, while still ensuring you receive the best service. At the same time even if you choose to go with big brother (expensive company) you should make sure that the company you choose has all of this!
- Look for a company that is not on the top advertising section page of Google. Because these companies would pass the cost of advertising on to clients.
- Check companies listed on the second or third page of Google, as local companies in Nepal do not have sufficient resources or financing to compete with large international travel companies that may appear on the first page of Google.
- Avoid third-party booking agencies, as local travel companies are likely required to pay at least 15%-30% commission to these websites.
- Check a company’s legal documents page to ensure they are registered and appropriately licensed by the Nepal Government.
- Check what other travelers say about the company, such as on Tripadvisor. These are independent reviews from clients, verified by Tripadvisor, so you can be sure of the type of service these companies are capable of providing. If they treat 90% of their clients well, chances are, you will experience the same service.
- Check with a local company to confirm that their guide has a license, first aid and high-altitude training, insurance, and is equipped with the right hiking gear.
- Check with a company if they are concerned about your safety. If they have proper contracting, a good relationship with a helicopter rescue company, and an approved international hospital in Nepal. You may not need this service, but in an emergency, it is VERY important.
- Before your guide calls the helicopter company, make sure the company provides a Pulse Oximeter. This device will help track whether your body has acclimatized. Do you really need to cancel this trip mid-trip and go to the hospital? By keeping track of your blood oxygen levels and blood pressure, you can also monitor and act at the first signs of altitude sickness.
- Compare prices with a few other companies to make sure you are getting a good deal. At the same time, do not go with a price that is too low or too high. Stay with a medium one.
- A local company would appreciate it if you write a positive review or recommendation in travel forums or websites. You may get a discount for you and your friends!
- Make it easy and safe with payment gateways like PayPal and e-transfer. Do not pay 100% in advance. However, most companies require at least a percentage of the total amount as a booking confirmation.
- Agree to meet with the guide prior to departure to get an idea of his experience level and whether you are compatible.
- Bring cash instead of paying by card. You will save 4% if you pay in cash.
If you would like to know more about our company, contact us at nestadventure@gmail.com.
Conclusion
EBC is the most famous base camp trek in Nepal, but you do not have to follow the classical trail like the other 40,000 travelers. Instead, take the Everest Three Pass Trek trail for a different Everest adventure and authentic Everest experience. This is definitely not an easy trek, so you need to be extra cautious and prepare your body and mind for this adventure. Trust me, while it is difficult, it is definitely worth it. This is the ultimate trek for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path version of EBC. If you want to know more, please contact us.
FAQs
Yes. The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered one of Nepal’s most challenging teahouse treks. It crosses three high mountain passes above 5,300 m (17,388 ft), requiring good fitness, proper acclimatization, and previous trekking experience.
Most trekkers complete the Everest Three Passes Trek in 17–21 days, depending on the itinerary, acclimatization days, side trips, and weather conditions.
The highest point is Kala Patthar, which stands at 5,545 m (18,192 ft) above sea level.
The trek crosses three famous passes:
– Kongma La – 5,535 m (18,159 ft)
– Cho La – 5,420 m (17,782 ft)
– Renjo La – 5,360 m (17,585 ft)
Yes. The Three Passes Trek is significantly more difficult than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek because it includes three high passes, longer trekking days, and more demanding terrain.
The best seasons are March to May and late September to November, when the weather is generally stable and mountain views are at their best.
A guide is not mandatory in the Everest region, but hiring an experienced local guide is highly recommended for navigation, weather conditions, and safety, especially when crossing high passes.
The total cost usually ranges from US$1,500 to US$2,000, depending on the itinerary, group size, guide, porter, accommodation, flights, and services included.
You will need two permits for the Three Passes Trek:
– Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
– Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
TIMS card is not required for the Everest region trek.
The complete circuit covers approximately 160–170 km (99–106 mi), depending on the itinerary and side trips.
Most experienced guides recommend trekking counter-clockwise, starting through Dingboche and crossing Kongma La first. This direction provides better acclimatization before reaching the highest pass.
Yes. Since the trek reaches elevations above 5,500 m (18,045 ft), there is a significant risk of altitude sickness. A gradual itinerary with acclimatization days is essential.
