Everest Three Passes Trek
●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviewsCross all three high passes in the Everest region, Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, in a single 20-day circuit that includes EBC, Gokyo Lakes, and Kala Patthar.
Friends paying separately still get the group price.
On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Everest Three Passes Trek: What to Expect
Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m) in a single circuit
Three of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu covered in one route
Our own licensed guides, not contractors. The same team from day one to day twenty.
One of the most complete treks in Nepal that needs no climbing permit
The Everest Three Passes Trek is the complete Khumbu circuit. In 20 days you cross Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m), stand at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), summit Kala Patthar (5,545m) at dawn, climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for the four-peak panorama, and exit through the remote Bhote Koshi Valley that sees a fraction of the traffic on the main EBC corridor. Few treks in Nepal cover this much ground without a climbing permit.
This is a Level 4 Hard trek. Ten nights above 4,400m, three high passes, 7 to 9 hour days on the hardest sections, and a short glacier crossing on Cho La where crampons or microspikes may be needed. Prior completion of the EBC Trek or Gokyo Valley Trek is the recommended baseline. If this is your first time above 3,500m, start with one of those routes first.
The anti-clockwise circuit is designed around acclimatisation. You gain altitude gradually through the Imja Valley, cross Kongma La when your body is strongest mid-trek, descend through the Gokyo Valley for the lakes section, then exit via Renjo La and the Bhote Koshi Valley. Three structured acclimatisation days are built in. Every group is led by one of our own licensed guides. No outsourcing, no contractors.
For a direct comparison of the three Everest region routes, our EBC full guide breaks down what each one involves and who each is right for.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu
A MountainKick representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel. That evening we run a full pre-trip briefing covering the 20-day route, all three passes, gear check, permits, and Lukla flight logistics.
Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Early morning flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport. The trail drops gently alongside the Dudh Koshi River through pine forest to Phakding. An easy first day by design. During peak season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov) flights depart from Ramechhap, requiring a hotel pickup between 1am and 2:30am
Trek to Namche Bazaar
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River crossing suspension bridges before entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo. The final two hours are a steep sustained climb into Namche. On a clear day you get your first view of Everest above the ridge before reaching town.
Acclimatisation Day in Namche
First acclimatisation day. We hike to the Everest View Hotel at 3,880m with clear sight lines to Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, then return to Namche to sleep lower. Time to visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, Saturday market, or the Sagarmatha National Park visitor centre.
Trek to Pangboche
The trail climbs out of Namche through forest, drops to the Dudh Koshi River at Phunki Tenga, then ascends through rhododendron forest past Tengboche Monastery with its full Everest panorama. Continue downhill through birch forest to Pangboche, home to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu and close-up views of Ama Dablam.
Trek to Dingboche
The trail follows the Imja Valley above the tree line into open pasture with views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. Dingboche sits on the bank of the Imja River surrounded by ancient stone-walled fields. The air is noticeably thinner here and most trekkers sleep less well on the first night.
Acclimatisation Day in Dingboche
Second acclimatisation day. We hike to Nangkartshang Peak at 5,083m for panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, Cholatse, Tawache, and Ama Dablam, then return to sleep low. This is the last full rest day before the three high passes begin.
Trek to Chhukung
A short day into the Imja Valley. The trail ascends gradually through arid terrain with Lhotse’s massive south face filling the view ahead. Chhukung is a small settlement at the foot of the glacier. Short day. Chhukung Ri is tomorrow.
Acclimatisation Day in Chhukung
Final acclimatisation day before Kongma La. We climb Chhukung Ri at 5,546m for sweeping views of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam. This is the highest point reached before the passes begin and a reliable indicator of how your body is responding to altitude. Return to Chhukung to sleep low before tomorrow’s big day.
Cross Kongma La, Trek to Lobuche
The first and highest of the three passes. An early start from Chhukung, steep rocky ascent to Kongma La at 5,535m where prayer flags mark the top and views of Makalu, Lhotse, and the Khumbu Glacier open up in every direction. The descent to Lobuche is equally steep and loose underfoot. A long hard day that sets the physical standard for everything that follows.
Trek to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep
The trail follows the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to Gorakshep at 5,164m. After lunch, continue to Everest Base Camp at 5,364m at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall, the starting point of every Everest summit attempt. Return to Gorakshep before dark.
Summit Kala Patthar, Trek to Dzongla
4:00 AM start for Kala Patthar at 5,545m, the highest point on this trek and the best elevated view of Everest’s southwest face at sunrise. Return to Gorakshep for breakfast then descend west to Dzongla, a small remote settlement that serves as the base before Cho La. Rest and prepare for tomorrow.
Cross Cho La, Trek to Thangnak
The technical pass of the three. An early start from Dzongla, steep rocky climb to the Cho La glacier at 5,420m where crampons or microspikes may be required depending on conditions. Your guide assesses on the day and makes the final call. Views of Ama Dablam and Cholatse from the top. Steep descent to Thangnak on the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.
Trek to Gokyo
A short recovery day after Cho La. The trail follows the western edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier before the first view of the turquoise Gokyo Lakes opens up. The settlement sits on the eastern shore of the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. Afternoon free to rest and explore the lake shore.
Climb Gokyo Ri, Explore Gokyo Lakes
Gokyo Ri listed at 5,357m puts four 8,000m peaks on the same horizon: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. One of the best viewpoints in the Himalaya and significantly less crowded than Kala Patthar. Afternoon exploring the fourth and fifth Gokyo Lakes with views back across the Ngozumpa Glacier.
Cross Renjo La, Trek to Marlung
The third and final pass. The ascent from Gokyo climbs steadily westward on rocky trail with the Gokyo Lakes visible far below. From Renjo La at 5,360m you get one of the best views of Everest in the region with Gokyo Lake, Cho Oyu, and the Rolwaling Himal spread across the horizon. A long steep descent into the Bhote Koshi Valley and the remote village of Marlung.
Trek to Namche Bazaar via Thame
A long descent through the Bhote Koshi Valley, one of the least-walked corridors in the Khumbu. Pass through Thame, a historic Sherpa village with one of the oldest monasteries in the region and the birthplace of Tenzing Norgay. The trail rejoins the main Everest corridor for the final climb into Namche. The drop in altitude brings noticeable relief.
Trek to Lukla
Final day on the trail. Descend steeply from Namche through Monjo, past the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint, through Phakding and back to Lukla. The trail is familiar and moves fast. Arrive in the late afternoon with time to sort gear, celebrate with the crew, and get an early night before the morning flight.
Fly to Kathmandu
Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Weather-dependent, MountainKick handles any rebooking at no extra cost. Transfer to hotel on arrival. Farewell dinner included this evening.
Final Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. Hotel checkout at 12:00 PM. Luggage storage available if your flight departs later.
3D Route Map
Includes & Excludes
-
Airport and hotel transfers by private vehicle Both directions, all internal road transport included
-
2 nights hotel in Kathmandu 3-star, twin-sharing, breakfast included
-
17 nights teahouse accommodation on trek Twin-sharing throughout
-
Lukla Flights often via Ramechhap in peak season, with ground transfers included
-
Government-licensed guide Full time, from arrival to departure
-
Porter service One porter per two trekkers, 10kg per trekker (20kg per porter)
-
Oximeter and first aid kit Carried by your guide throughout the trek
-
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit Arranged by MountainKick
-
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit Issued in Lukla
-
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu Traditional Nepali meal on your return night
-
Duffel bag Yours to keep
-
All government taxes and official charges Nothing hidden
-
All meals during the trek Budget $25 to $40 a day, more above Lobuche and in the Bhote Koshi Valley
-
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu Wide range of restaurants near your hotel
-
Travel insurance ompulsory. Must cover trekking to at least 6,000m and emergency helicopter evacuation.
-
International flights to and from Kathmandu
-
Nepal visa fee On arrival at Tribhuvan Airport. 15 days $30, 30 days $50, 90 days $125. Bring cash.
-
Personal trekking gear and equipment Can be bought or rented in Thamel before departure
-
Crampons or microspikes Usually needed for Cho La. Rentable in Kathmandu or Namche.
-
Extra nights if flights are delayed Hotel and meals in Lukla or Kathmandu if weather holds your flight
-
Personal expenses Hot showers, WiFi, bottled water, alcohol, phone calls, laundry
-
Helicopter rescue Paid by your travel insurer, or by you if your policy doesn't cover it
-
Tips for guide and porter Customary but optional, usually around 10 to 15% of the trip cost
Enhance Your Trek
We Handle the Details
FreeWhere You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat
In Kathmandu you stay at a 3-star hotel in Thamel on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast included. Single supplement available on request. Upgrades to 4 or 5-star properties can be arranged.
On the trek you stay in teahouses every night. Rooms are simple — a bed, blankets, and a window. Shared bathrooms at most stops. Hot showers cost an extra $2 to $5 in Lukla, Namche, Dingboche and Gokyo. Above Lobuche facilities reduce significantly. Dzongla and Thangnak are the most remote stops on the circuit — basic but functional. Gorakshep teahouses are the coldest and most basic on the route.
Single rooms are limited above Namche during peak season. Book ahead through your guide. The Bhote Koshi Valley section (Marlung) has fewer teahouses than the main EBC corridor — your guide confirms accommodation in advance for this section.
Breakfast included in Kathmandu only, plus farewell dinner on the return night. All trek meals are on your own account, ordered from teahouse menus.
Dal bhat is the best option at every stop — filling, reliable, and free refills. Pasta, noodles, soups, and eggs are available on the main corridor. The Bhote Koshi Valley section has fewer menu options — expect simpler meals at Marlung. Avoid meat above Namche. Budget $25 to $40 a day, more in remote sections.
| Breakfast | $6 to $10 |
| Lunch | $10 to $15 |
| Dinner | $10 to $15 |
| Hot shower | $2 to $5 |
| WiFi (where available) | $3 to $5 a day |
| Hot drinks | $2 to $4 each |
| Bottled water | $2 to $4 above Namche |
| Charging devices | $2 to $5 per device |
What Our Trekkers Say
“The ultimate Everest trek”
Kumar was a fantastic guide for our Three Passes trek. We knew going in it would be challenging, but he made it feel manageable throughout. The passes themselves were incredible, especially Renjo La, and the views along the whole route went beyond what we expected. A very memorable few weeks…
“Tough trek, amazing experience”
We had a brilliant time doing the Three Passes with Jeevan. There were definitely hard days, but he was patient and never rushed us. The scenery shifts constantly along the route, and every pass felt like its own adventure. Kongma La was especially tough, but standing at the top made…
“An incredible Himalayan adventure”
Balram looked after our group extremely well, he knew the route, kept a good pace, and was always checking how everyone was feeling. The Three Passes route is hard work, but the views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu make every climb worthwhile. Would absolutely recommend MountainKick for this…
“A trek we will never forget”
Gopal was an excellent guide, and honestly a great person to have with us on such a demanding trek. We enjoyed the quieter trails just as much as the big mountain views. Crossing the passes and spending time in the different valleys made this feel like a proper journey through…
“Worth every step”
Lok Raj was brilliant from start to finish, calm, knowledgeable, and good at judging when to push on and when to slow down. The trek was physically demanding, particularly on the higher passes, but we always felt well looked after. The views from Cho La are something I won't forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The trek is 20 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, with 17 days on the trail. That includes three acclimatisation days. The hardest days are the three pass crossings, at 7 to 9 hours each. Most other days are 3 to 7 hours.
How difficult is the Everest Three Passes Trek?
This is the most demanding standard trek in the Everest region. Rated Level 4 Hard on our scale. Three passes above 5,300m, ten nights above 4,400m, and daily trekking of 7 to 9 hours on the hardest days. Cho La involves a short glacier crossing where crampons may be required. Prior completion of the EBC Trek or Gokyo Valley Trek is the recommended baseline. See our full difficulty guide.
How does this compare to the EBC Trek and EBC via Gokyo?
The standard EBC Trek (14 days) covers Base Camp and Kala Patthar, the essential Everest experience. The EBC via Gokyo (17 days) adds Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and one high pass (Cho La). The Three Passes Trek (20 days) adds all three passes plus the complete Renjo La circuit via the remote Bhote Koshi Valley. Choose Three Passes if you have 20 days, prior high-altitude experience, and want the most complete Khumbu circuit possible.
What is the acclimatisation plan?
Three acclimatisation days are built in before the passes, and each one follows the same rule: climb high, then sleep lower. On Day 4 you hike to 3,880m above Namche and sleep at 3,440m. On Day 7 you climb Nangkartshang to 5,083m and sleep at Dingboche, 4,410m. On Day 9 you climb Chhukung Ri to 5,546m and sleep at Chhukung, 4,730m.
By the time you reach Kongma La (5,535m) on Day 10, your body has already been near that height. The route then takes you over Base Camp (5,364m), Kala Patthar (5,545m), Cho La (5,420m), Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Renjo La (5,360m).
Do I need prior high-altitude experience?
Yes. This trek isn’t for your first time at high altitude. You spend ten nights above 4,400m and cross three passes above 5,300m. We recommend doing the EBC Trek or the Gokyo Valley Trek first. If you’ve never been above 3,500m, start with one of those routes.
What is Cho La and do I need crampons?
Cho La (5,420m) is the middle pass, and it includes a short glacier crossing near the top. Microspikes or crampons are usually needed, and they’re often essential in winter or early spring. Your guide makes the final call on the day. You can rent them in Kathmandu or Namche. If conditions are too dangerous, the backup is to descend via Dragnag to Gokyo.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be able to hike 7 to 9 hours carrying a 5kg daypack comfortably. A 10 to 12 week preparation plan is recommended: cardio 4 to 5 times per week including hiking with elevation gain, leg and core strength training twice a week, and at least 4 to 5 practice hikes of 6 or more hours with a loaded pack including some back-to-back days. The three consecutive high-pass days are the hardest stretch. Arriving physically prepared makes them achievable rather than survival exercises.
Can I join a group if I’m travelling alone?
Yes. Our group departures run on set dates with up to 8 trekkers, and every date runs even if you’re the only one booked. Group dates are $1,360 per person. If you’d rather go on your own dates, a private solo trip is $1,685.
What happens if a pass is closed?
Snow or ice can sometimes make a pass unsafe. Your guide decides on the day. If Kongma La is closed, you go round via Dingboche and Lobuche. If Cho La is closed, you go back down and round via Phortse. If Renjo La is closed, you return from Gokyo the same way you came. You still see most of the highlights, but it can add walking or a day. Any extra costs are paid by you, as set out in our terms.
How is altitude sickness managed on this trek?
Three acclimatisation days, a carefully sequenced elevation profile, and an experienced guide trained to recognise symptoms. Drink 3 to 4 litres of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,000m, and report any persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, or unusual fatigue to your guide immediately. Descending 300 to 500m usually brings fast relief. Talk to your doctor about Diamox before you leave. For a full breakdown read our altitude sickness guide.
What permits do I need?
You need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit. We also arrange a TIMS card. All of these are included and arranged by us. We just need your passport details and two passport-sized photos.
Since April 2023, Nepal’s rules require foreign trekkers on most routes to have a licensed guide. In the Khumbu, local authorities have pushed back on the rule and checks vary, but every MountainKick trek includes a licensed guide for the full trip.
What about the Lukla flights?
Your return Lukla flights are included. In peak season (March to May and September to November), most flights leave from Ramechhap’s Manthali Airport, about 4 to 5 hours’ drive from Kathmandu. That means a hotel pickup between 1am and 2:30am. Off-peak, flights usually leave directly from Kathmandu.
Lukla flights depend on the weather, and delays happen. We rebook your flight at no charge, but extra nights and meals are paid by you. On a trek this long, keep 2 to 3 spare days before your international flight home. See our Ramechhap flight guide.
How much cash should I carry?
The last reliable ATM is in Namche Bazaar, and teahouses don’t take cards. Budget $25 to $40 a day for food, or $35 to $50 a day with hot showers, wifi, charging and snacks. Food costs more above Lobuche and in the Bhote Koshi Valley. For 17 days on the trail, carry around $600 to $850 in Nepali rupees, in small notes.
What medical facilities are available on the route?
Lukla has a small hospital for basic care. Namche has a Himalayan Rescue Association aid post staffed during peak seasons. Pheriche has an HRA clinic open October to November and April to May. There are no permanent medical facilities above Pheriche. The remote Bhote Koshi Valley section has the fewest facilities on the entire circuit. For anything beyond basic first aid on the high passes, helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu is the only viable option.
What travel insurance do I need?
Travel insurance is compulsory, and you have to buy it before you arrive. It can’t be bought in Nepal. It must cover trekking to at least 6,000m and emergency helicopter evacuation. A rescue from the high passes can cost $3,000 to $6,000, and rescue companies usually want confirmation from your insurer before they fly. If your insurer doesn’t confirm in time, you pay the rescue company directly and claim it back later.
When is the best time to do the Three Passes Trek?
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). October and November give the most stable weather, clearest visibility, and best pre-dawn conditions for Kala Patthar. March and April are warmer with rhododendrons below Namche and expedition teams active above. Avoid monsoon (June to August) — trails above 4,000m become hazardous and high-pass conditions deteriorate significantly. Winter departures (December to February) are possible but Cho La conditions can be serious with temperatures on the passes dropping well below -20°C.
Can I add Island Peak climbing to this trek?
Yes. MountainKick offers the Everest High Passes with Island Peak (23 days) which combines all three passes with a guided summit of Island Peak at 6,189m. It is the most complete Everest region itinerary we offer.
What visa do I need for Nepal?
Tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. For a 20-day trek, get the 30-day visa minimum to include buffer days. Current fees: 30-day $50 USD, 90-day $125 USD. Bring USD cash, two passport-sized photos, and a passport valid for at least 6 months. Online pre-application available through Nepal’s Department of Immigration.
Departure Dates & Pricing
2 going from Australia
2 going from Australia
Your dates, your group, your way
Same route and guides, just your group. Tell us when you'd like to go and how many of you there are, and we'll send you a day by day plan with a price.
- Nothing to pay now
- Plan and price by email
- Confirm with a 20% deposit
"*" indicates required fields
Rather chat? Message us on WhatsApp
-
1
20% deposit: due on booking Secures your place on the departure. The deposit is non-refundable. We also need a copy of your passport.
-
2
80% balance: due on arrival Pay the rest in Kathmandu before the trip starts. Bank transfer, cash, or card (4% card fee).
| Cancel before you arrive | Deposit not refunded, nothing more to pay |
| Cancel after the pre-trip meeting | No refund |
| Date or name change | USD 200 per person |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
Weather delays and extra days cost extra, so travel insurance is required. We give you documents for any claim.
Read the full terms and conditionsPacking List
Footwear
ⓘ Boots must be broken in before you arrive. The descent from Kongma La and the Cho La glacier approach will expose any weakness in your footwear on the same day.
Clothing and Layers
ⓘ Temperature swings of 25 degrees between midday and midnight are normal above 4,500m. Three full layer systems are not excessive on this trek.
Head, Hands and Neck
ⓘ Wind chill on the passes is severe. Liner gloves alone are not enough above Lobuche. Expedition mittens are not optional for the Kala Patthar 4:00 AM start and the Cho La crossing.
Gear and Equipment
ⓘ Your porter carries the duffel. Keep your daypack under 5kg. Trekking poles are essential on this route, not optional — the Kongma La descent is steep and loose.
Health and Hydration
ⓘ Talk to your doctor about Diamox before you leave. It is available in Kathmandu but better discussed beforehand. We do not provide or recommend it ourselves. Your guide carries a professional kit and pulse oximeter.
Toiletries
ⓘ Laundry services are available in Namche and Gokyo during acclimatisation days. Quick-dry fabrics only — nothing else dries in 20 days at altitude.
Documents and Money
ⓘ ATMs exist in Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Khumjung. There are no ATMs anywhere else on this circuit. The Bhote Koshi Valley section is the most remote. Carry more cash than you think you need and use small denominations.
Trekking in Winter (Dec to Feb)
Trekking in Monsoon (Jun to Aug)
⚠ Monsoon is not recommended for the Three Passes Trek. Trails above 4,000m become hazardous, Cho La and Kongma La conditions deteriorate significantly with snow and ice, views disappear for days at a time, and Lukla flights get delayed frequently. This is the one trek in the Khumbu where the monsoon risk is highest.
Leave at home
-
Jeans Heavy, zero insulation when wet, takes days to dry
-
Cotton clothing Absorbs sweat, stays wet, causes dangerous chilling above 5,000m
-
Full-size towel Heavy and bulky. Microfiber only.
-
Laptop No need and you will regret the weight across 20 days
-
Valuables and jewellery Unnecessary risk. Leave at the hotel in Kathmandu.
-
Single light down jacket only Not enough for Dzongla and Gorakshep nights. Bring an expedition layer.
Sleeping bags, down jackets, expedition mittens, crampons, and microspikes can all be rented in Thamel or Namche Bazaar. We lend you trekking poles for free. If you'd rather have your own, buy a good pair in Thamel, as cheap ones wear out fast on three-pass terrain. We connect you with trusted shops at the pre-trip briefing. A duffel bag is provided to every trekker as part of the package.
Everest Three Passes Trek
Talk to Kumar and the team before you commit. Ask about gear, fitness, altitude or a private group.
Tales from the Himalayas
Travel Best Time to Trek Langtang Valley: Month by Month
Langtang is close to Kathmandu and good for much of the year, but the season changes everything from the views…
Annapurna Region Thorong La Pass: A Guide to the Big Day on the Annapurna Circuit
Thorong La at 5,416m is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. Here’s what crossing day is really like, from…
Everest Region Annapurna Circuit Teahouses: What the Rooms Are Really Like
Teahouses on the Annapurna Circuit range from comfortable lodges in Manang to bare rooms at Thorong Phedi. Here’s what to…