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Everest Three Passes Trek – 20 Days
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a 20-day journey through the Himalayas, offering some of the most stunning scenery the Everest Region has to offer—all experienced on foot. The adventure starts with your trip to the region and a brief yet spectacular flight to Lukla. From there, you follow the renowned Everest route, crossing three high-altitude passes: Kongma La at 5,535 meters, Cho La at 5,420 meters, and Renjo La at 5,360 meters.
Trip Grade
Extreme
Max Altitude
5,555 m
Accomodation
Hotel & Guesthouse
Transportation
Flight & Shared Tourist Vehicle
Everest Three Passes Trek – 20 Days Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400 m
Day 02
Fly to Lukla
Altitude: 2,840 m
Day 03
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440 m
Day 04
Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,880 m
Day 05
Trek to Tengboche
Altitude: 3,860 m
Day 06
Trek to Dingboche
Altitude: 4,410 m
This trek offers the chance to explore renowned destinations such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, Kala Patthar, and Thame. The itinerary includes two acclimatization days—one in Namche Bazaar and another in Dingboche—and provides optional visits to Hotel Everest View and Nangkartsang Peak.
A key highlight is reaching Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters above sea level, followed by an early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m), one of the most outstanding vantage points for viewing Mount Everest, offering what many consider the most breathtaking panorama in the region. You’ll also have the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri for sweeping views of the scenic Gokyo Valley and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The return journey takes you through Thame and Namche Bazaar back to Lukla, where you’ll catch a flight to Kathmandu. Along the way, you’ll stay in local guesthouses, allowing you to immerse yourself in the distinct atmosphere of the Himalayas, interact with residents, and learn about their daily lives and traditions.
Overall, this trip combines high-altitude trekking, mountain flights, stunning landscapes, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal adventure for experiencing the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Everest region.
Highlights
Begin with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, marking the start of your journey.
Traverse three towering Himalayan passes: Kongma La at 5,535 meters, Cho La at 5,420 meters, and Renjo La at 5,360 meters.
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m), offering one of the closest views of Mount Everest.
Reach the renowned Everest Base Camp, situated at 5,364 meters.
Ascend Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) for panoramic views of the stunning Gokyo Lakes below.
Discover traditional Sherpa communities in Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Thame, and the Gokyo Valley.
Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual centerpiece of the region.
Include two acclimatization days, with optional hikes to Hotel Everest View and Nangkartsang Peak.
Experience breathtaking landscapes—snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, rugged mountain passes, deep valleys, and centuries-old suspension bridges.
Rest each night in authentic local guesthouses along the trekking route.
Highlights
- Begin with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, marking the start of your journey.
- Traverse three towering Himalayan passes: Kongma La at 5,535 meters, Cho La at 5,420 meters, and Renjo La at 5,360 meters.
- Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m), offering one of the closest views of Mount Everest.
- Reach the renowned Everest Base Camp, situated at 5,364 meters.
- Ascend Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) for panoramic views of the stunning Gokyo Lakes below.
- Discover traditional Sherpa communities in Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Thame, and the Gokyo Valley.
- Visit the historic Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual centerpiece of the region.
- Include two acclimatization days, with optional hikes to Hotel Everest View and Nangkartsang Peak.
- Experience breathtaking landscapes—snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, rugged mountain passes, deep valleys, and centuries-old suspension bridges.
- Rest each night in authentic local guesthouses along the trekking route.
Everest Three Passes Trek – 20 Days Itinerary
01
DAY
Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m), you'll be greeted by our representative who will help transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind, recover from your journey, and prepare for the upcoming Everest Three Passes trek.
02
DAY
Fly to Lukla
Depart Kathmandu early in the morning on a scenic flight to Lukla (2,840 m), where you'll enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range during the 35-minute journey. Upon arrival at this remote mountain airstrip, settle into your guest house to rest and begin acclimatizing ahead of your trek to Everest.
Distance: 35 minutes
03
DAY
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Begin your trek from Phakding (2,610 m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), a lively Sherpa town that serves as the main trading center in the Everest area. The route takes you through scenic woodlands, across charming suspension bridges, and alongside historic villages before reaching your destination.
Duration: 5–6 hours
04
DAY
Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar
Spend the day adjusting to the altitude in Namche Bazaar. Consider a brief hike to Hotel Everest View at 3,880 meters—an ideal way to experience the surrounding landscape. After enjoying the outstanding scenery, head back to Namche Bazaar.
05
DAY
Trek to Tengboche
Depart from Namche Bazaar and hike to Tengboche (3,860 m), a journey that takes around 5 to 6 hours. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Himalayan range as you approach the well-known village of Tengboche, home to the Tengboche Monastery—one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in the Everest area.
06
DAY
Trek to Dingboche
Proceed on foot from Tengboche (3,860 m) to Dingboche (4,410 m), following the scenic Khumbu Valley. Enjoy stunning mountain vistas along the trail before reaching Dingboche, a charming village that serves as an important acclimatization point for trekkers heading to higher elevations.
Duration: 5–6 hours
07
DAY
Acclimatization Day at Dingboche
Spend the day acclimatizing in Dingboche with a hike up Nankartsang Peak, reaching an elevation of 5,083 meters. The climb provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and serves as an effective way to adapt to the high altitude. Afterward, we’ll head back to Dingboche for the night.
Duration: 4–5 hours
08
DAY
Trek to Chhukhung
The trek from Dingboche (4,410 m) to Chhukhung (4,730 m) is a relatively short journey through the scenic Imja Valley. This gradual ascent allows additional time for proper acclimatization ahead of crossing one of the region’s three high mountain passes.
Duration: 4–5 hours.
09
DAY
Trek to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass
Cross Kongma La, the first and highest pass at 5,535 meters, en route to Lobuche (4,910m), then enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas over the valley on your return. The day involves a fairly short but steep hike.
Duration: 7–8 hours
10
DAY
Trek to Everest Base Camp and Return to Gorak Shep
The trek continues from Lobuche (4,910 m) to the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), a major highlight of the journey. After spending the night at Base Camp and enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys, we return to Gorak Shep (5,164 m) for overnight accommodation.
Distance: 8–9 hours of walking
11
DAY
Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Lobuche
Begin early in the morning with a hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m), where you’ll enjoy stunning views of Mount Everest and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Afterward, head back to Gorak Shep before continuing on foot to Lobuche, where you’ll spend the night.
The total trekking time is around 8 to 9 hours.
12
DAY
Trek to Dzongla
Descend from Lobuche (4,910 m) to Dzongla (4,710 m), making a gradual downhill trek across rugged mountain terrain. This is a moderately short hike, serving as a brief pause before the demanding crossing of Cho La Pass.
Hiking duration: 4–5 hours
13
DAY
Trek to Gokyo via Cho La Pass
This demanding day involves an 8 to 9-hour trek from Dzongla to Gokyo Valley, crossing the striking Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters above sea level. The route follows a moderately challenging trail, one of the renowned three high passes in the region, before descending to Gokyo Valley (4,790 m), where we spend the night.
14
DAY
Hike to Gokyo Ri
This demanding day involves an 8 to 9-hour trek from Dzongla to Gokyo Valley, crossing the striking Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters above sea level. The route follows a moderately challenging trail, one of the renowned three high passes in the region, before descending to Gokyo Valley (4,790 m), where we spend the night.
15
DAY
Trek to Lungden via Renjo La Pass
Cross the final high mountain pass, Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), while trekking from Gokyo (4,790 m) to Lungden (4,368 m). Marvel at the magnificent mountain views while hiking back down to spend the night in Lungden.
Duration: 7-8 hours
16
DAY
Trek to Thame
Hike from Lungden to Thame (Downhill)
Descend from Lungden (4,368 m) to the historic Sherpa village of Thame (3,800 m) on a relatively gentle trek. After days of climbing, this route offers a more relaxed walking experience. The shorter journey moves away from high mountain passes and brings you deeper into the cultural and scenic core of the Everest area.
Duration: 4–5 hours
17
DAY
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Descend from Thame (3,800 m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), following the same picturesque route you previously climbed. As you make your way back toward the vibrant Sherpa settlement, you'll retrace your path through landscapes you've already crossed, having successfully navigated all three high mountain passes.
Duration: 4–5 hours
18
DAY
Trek to Lukla
Descend from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. This final day of hiking marks the end of your trek in the Everest region.
Distance: 6–7 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
19
DAY
Fly Back to Kathmandu
Take a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (35 mins) or Manthali/Ramechhap (20 mins) followed by a shared tourist vehicle drive to Kathmandu (if required). On your arrival, check-in and spend your remaining time touring Kathmandu or relaxing in the hotel.
Duration: 35 mins flight to Kathmandu or 20 mins flight to Manthali/Ramechhap + 5-6 hrs drive
20
DAY
Final Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your onward flight. Your unforgettable Everest Three Passes Trek comes to an end.
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Includes
- Airport arrival transfer in Kathmandu
- Airport departure transfer in Kathmandu
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap
- Shared tourist vehicle transfer from Manthali/Ramechhap to Kathmandu (if applicable)
- Guesthouse accommodation throughout the trek
- Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
- Acclimatization day at Dingboche
- Hike to Hotel Everest View
- Hike to Nangkartsang Peak
- Visit to Everest Base Camp
- Hike to Kala Patthar
- Climb to Gokyo Ri
- Crossing of Kongma La Pass
- Crossing of Cho La Pass
- Crossing of Renjo La Pass
Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal tourist visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking equipment
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porter
- Snacks and beverages
- Wi-Fi, charging, and hot shower fees
- Any services not mentioned in the itinerary
Equipment List for Everest Three Passes Trek – 20 Days
- Warm Beanie
- Sun Hat / Cap
- Buff or Neck Gaiter
- Sunglasses (UV Protection)
- Headlamp
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm
- Moisture-Wicking T-Shirts
- Thermal Base Layers
- Fleece Jacket
- Down Jacket
- Waterproof/Windproof Jacket
- Lightweight Gloves
- Insulated Warm Gloves
- Trekking Pants
- Thermal Base Layer
- Waterproof Rain Pants
- Sturdy Trekking Boots
- Warm Trekking Socks
- Gaiters (Optional)
- Camp Shoes / Sandals (Optional)
- Backpack / Daypack
- Duffel Bag (Optional if using a porter)
- Rain Cover
- Trekking Poles
- Sleeping Bag (Rated -15°C to -20°C)
- Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder
- Water Purification Tablets / Filter
- Personal First Aid Kit
- Personal Medications
- Altitude Medication (If prescribed)
- Hand Sanitizer
- Wet Wipes
- Toiletries
- Mobile Phone
- Power Bank
- Camera (Optional)
- Chargers
- Spare Batteries
- Passport
- Passport-size Photos
- Trekking Permits
- Travel Insurance
- Cash for Personal Expenses
Essential Information
Everest Base Camp Experience
One of the major highlights of the trek is visiting Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the starting point for climbers attempting the world's highest mountain. Reaching Base Camp is a memorable achievement and one of the most iconic experiences in the Himalayas.
Cross the Three High Passes
The Everest three passes trek is a wonderful opportunity to cross three high Himalayan passes: Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m). Each has its own allure and offers fantastic views of the mountains.
Kala Patthar Viewpoint
This early morning excursion to Kala Patthar (5,555 m) offers one of the best vertical views of Everest and the other Himalayan peaks surrounding the region. It is both the highest point on our trek and one of the most rewarding experiences.
Gokyo Ri
Our trek includes a hike up Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) for great views over the Gokyo Valley and the Himalayas
Acclimatization Days
The itinerary includes two acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche with an excursion each day to Hotel Everest View and Nangkartsang Peak.
Sherpa Villages
The trail takes you through several traditional Sherpa villages en route to Everest Base Camp including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gokyo and Thame.
Scenic Mountain Flight
Your trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and ends with a return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap. This is a unique and special opportunity to see the Himalayas from a different perspective
Guesthouse Accommodation
The trekking arrangements are made on a twin sharing basis at the local guesthouses along the trail. The pre and post trip accommodations are arranged in Kathmandu in hotels.
A Challenging Trek
This 20-day Everest Three Passes trekking includes high altitude trekking, great views, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Valley and crossing three passes that makes this trek one of the most thrilling adventures in the Everest region.
Everest Three Passes Trek – 20 Days FAQs
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a 20-day adventure that begins and ends in Kathmandu, including arrival, departure, trekking, acclimatization days, and domestic flights.
The highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar (5,555 m), offering spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
We cross three high mountain passes on the trek:
Kongma La Pass (5,535m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360m).
Yes, we visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m). From there, we return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Yes, there are two acclimatization days in the itinerary – one day in Namche Bazaar and the other day in Dingboche. During the acclimatization days, you can explore around Hotel Everest View and hike to Nangkartsang Peak.
We hike to Hotel Everest View, Nangkartsang Peak, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Ri. Throughout the trek, you get plenty of opportunities to witness the magnificent views of the Himalayas.
The package includes a hotel stay in Kathmandu and guesthouse stays during the trek.
We fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. On the return day, we can either take a flight back from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap followed by a shared tourist vehicle ride back to Kathmandu.
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