Welcome to Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Family Holidays Nepal will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, a vibrant district known for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, take some time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, you may choose to explore Thamel, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or simply relax at the hotel. This is a great opportunity to get acclimated to the local environment before your trek begins.
After breakfast, Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu. You will visit some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These sites offer insights into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Nepal. In the afternoon, you’ll travel by road to Manthali, a town located in the Ramechhap district, which serves as a gateway to the Everest region. The drive takes about 4 to 5 hours. You’ll spend the night in Manthali to position yourself for an early flight to Lukla the next morning.
Early in the morning, you will take a flight from Manthali to Lukla, a thrilling journey that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Lukla, you’ll meet your trekking crew and begin your trek to Phakding. The trek takes approximately 3 to 4 hours and descends through picturesque forests and across suspension bridges. Phakding is a charming village along the Dudh Koshi River, and you'll stay here overnight in a local lodge. Enjoy a warm meal and prepare for the days of trekking ahead.
After breakfast, start your trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the main trading hub of the Khumbu region. This trek takes about 5 to 6 hours and involves crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. The trail ascends through dense forest and passes through several small villages. As you approach Namche Bazaar, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Namche Bazaar is a bustling village with shops, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere. Settle into your lodge and rest for the night.
Today is dedicated to acclimatization, which is crucial for adjusting to the higher altitude. Spend the day exploring Namche Bazaar and its surroundings. You might visit the local market, the Sherpa Museum, or take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest and other surrounding peaks. This rest day helps your body acclimate to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Enjoy a leisurely day, and return to your lodge in the evening to relax.
After breakfast, trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche. This section of the trek takes about 5 to 6 hours and involves a mix of ascents and descents. The trail offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Tengboche is renowned for its beautiful monastery, which is a significant spiritual center for the local Sherpa community. Visit the monastery if time permits, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a lodge at Tengboche.
Begin your trek from Tengboche to Dingboche, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. The trail descends to the Imja Khola and then ascends through picturesque alpine meadows and small villages. Dingboche is a beautiful village located in a valley surrounded by impressive peaks, including Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. The altitude here is higher, so take it easy and stay hydrated. After settling into your lodge, enjoy the views and prepare for the next day’s acclimatization activities.
Today is another acclimatization day. Take a short hike to higher elevations to aid your acclimatization process. A popular option is to hike to Nagarjun Hill or the nearby ridge for panoramic views of the Himalayas. This hike will help your body adjust to the altitude and prepare you for the higher passes ahead. Return to Dingboche in the afternoon, relax, and enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks. This rest day is crucial for acclimatizing properly before tackling the higher passes.
Today’s trek takes you from Dingboche to Chhukung, a journey of approximately 3 to 4 hours. Chhukung is a small village that serves as a base for climbing Chhukung Ri. After reaching Chhukung, prepare for a climb to Chhukung Ri, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Island Peak and the towering Ama Dablam. The climb to Chhukung Ri takes about 2 to 3 hours and involves a steep ascent. After enjoying the panoramic views, return to Chhukung for the night.
Prepare for a challenging day as you cross the Kongma La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,535 meters. The trek from Chhukung to Lobuche takes about 6 to 7 hours, including the crossing of the Kongma La Pass. The trail ascends steeply to the pass and then descends to the Lobuche Valley. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. After crossing the pass, descend to Lobuche, where you will stay overnight in a lodge.
Today’s trek takes you from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and then to Everest Base Camp. The trek to Gorak Shep takes about 3 hours, and from there, you’ll continue on to Everest Base Camp, which takes an additional 3 to 4 hours. The trail involves traversing rocky terrain and moraines. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, take time to enjoy the views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks. Return to Gorak Shep for the night, where you’ll have dinner and rest after a long day of trekking.
Rise early for a hike to Kala Patthar, renowned for its stunning sunrise views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. The hike to Kala Patthar takes about 2 hours. After soaking in the panoramic views, return to Gorak Shep for breakfast. From there, trek back to Lobuche, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. The descent offers beautiful views of the Khumbu region and provides a chance to reflect on the breathtaking experiences of the past days.
Today, you’ll trek from Lobuche to Dzongla, a journey of about 3 to 4 hours. The trail involves a steady ascent and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Cholatse and Lobuche East. Dzongla is a small village located in a picturesque setting, offering a peaceful environment and excellent views. After arriving in Dzongla, check into your lodge and enjoy a warm meal. This shorter trek allows for a more relaxed pace and helps with acclimatization before crossing the next pass.
Today’s trek takes you from Dzongla to Gokyo, crossing the Cho La Pass en route. The trek involves a challenging ascent to the pass, which stands at 5,420 meters, and then descends to Gokyo. The trek takes about 7 to 8 hours and involves traversing rugged terrain and snow-covered paths. The views from the Cho La Pass are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. After crossing the pass, descend to Gokyo, a beautiful village situated beside Gokyo Lake. Check into your lodge and rest.
Enjoy a rest day in Gokyo to acclimatize and explore the area. Climb Gokyo Ri, which takes about 2 hours and offers breathtaking views of Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After descending from Gokyo Ri, you’ll have the option to visit the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes, which are located further along the valley. This day allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the Gokyo region and to rest before continuing with the trek. Return to your lodge in the evening to relax and prepare for the next day's journey.
Today’s trek involves crossing the Renjo La Pass, which stands at 5,360 meters. The trek from Gokyo to Lumde takes about 6 to 7 hours, including the pass crossing. The Renjo La Pass offers incredible views of the Everest region and the surrounding peaks. After crossing the pass, descend to Lumde, a small village situated in a beautiful valley. Lumde provides a tranquil environment and is a good spot to rest after a challenging day of trekking. Check into your lodge and enjoy a meal.
Begin your trek from Lumde to Namche Bazaar, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail descends through dense forests and follows the Bhote Koshi River. As you approach Namche Bazaar, you’ll notice the landscape changing from alpine to temperate. Once you arrive in Namche Bazaar, check into your lodge and enjoy a well-deserved rest. This is your final stop before heading back to Lukla.
Today, trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. The trail descends through beautiful landscapes and crosses several suspension bridges. As you approach Lukla, you’ll traverse the lush forests and terraced fields that characterize the lower Khumbu region. Once you arrive in Lukla, check into your lodge and celebrate the successful completion of your trek. Enjoy your last evening in the Everest region with a warm meal and reflection on your incredible journey.
Take an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The flight offers one last opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure—explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or relax at your hotel. In the evening, join a farewell dinner hosted by Family Holidays Nepal to celebrate the completion of your trek and share your experiences with fellow trekkers.
On your final day in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to prepare for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some additional time to explore Kathmandu or do last-minute shopping. A representative from Family Holidays Nepal will assist you with your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you’ve had a memorable adventure and look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal in the future.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is an exhilarating adventure that tests your limits while offering awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas. Conquering three high-altitude passes is tough, but the breathtaking scenery and sense of achievement make it an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is an adventurous and challenging trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It includes crossing three high-altitude passes: Kongma La (5,535 meters/18,159 feet), Cho La (5,420 meters/17,782 feet), and Renjo La (5,388 meters/17,641 feet). The trek offers unparalleled views of the Everest massif, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, and takes trekkers through remote and rugged terrain, passing by beautiful alpine lakes, glaciers, and traditional Sherpa villages. It is a demanding trek suitable for experienced trekkers looking for a comprehensive Everest region experience.
The ideal times to undertake the Everest Three Passes Trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) offer the best weather conditions with clear skies, stable temperatures, and minimal rainfall. During these times, the trekking trails are generally well-maintained and the views are spectacular. Winter can be extremely cold and snow-covered, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rains, which can lead to slippery trails and landslides.
The Everest Three Passes Trek requires excellent physical fitness and stamina. The trek involves long days of hiking over rugged terrain, significant elevation gains, and high-altitude passes. Trekkers should be in good health, have strong cardiovascular endurance, and experience with high-altitude trekking. Prior preparation, including regular cardiovascular and strength training, is recommended. It’s also crucial to acclimatize properly to handle the high altitudes and prevent altitude sickness.
To undertake the Everest Three Passes Trek, you will need the following permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): This permit helps in the regulation and safety of trekkers. It can be obtained in Kathmandu or Lukla.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required for entering Sagarmatha National Park, which covers the Everest region. It can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the park entrance.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: This is a relatively new permit required for the areas beyond Monjo. It is usually included in the trekking package or can be obtained in Lukla or Phakding.
The Everest Three Passes Trek typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete. This duration includes time for acclimatization, crossing the three passes, and buffer days for any unforeseen delays or weather conditions. The trek involves approximately 12-15 days of trekking, with additional days allocated for rest, acclimatization, and travel to and from the trailheads.
Accommodation on the Everest Three Passes Trek is mainly in teahouses or lodges. These are basic yet comfortable facilities with shared rooms and common dining areas. At higher altitudes, the lodges become more basic with fewer amenities. Expect simple bedding, a communal dining space, and basic bathroom facilities. It’s important to be prepared for the increased scarcity of amenities as you ascend to higher altitudes.
Packing for the Everest Three Passes Trek requires careful consideration. Essential items include:
Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), a waterproof and windproof outer layer, thermal socks, and durable trekking boots.
Gear: A high-quality sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles, a headlamp, and sunglasses.
Accessories: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, a first aid kit, personal hygiene items, and a water bottle or hydration system.
Documents: Passport, trekking permits, and travel insurance.
The Everest Three Passes Trek is generally safe if trekkers are well-prepared and follow safety guidelines. Proper acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness, and trekkers should listen to their bodies and adjust their pace as needed. It is highly recommended to trek with a reputable guide or agency to ensure safety and receive support in case of emergencies. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and challenging terrain.
Food options along the Everest Three Passes Trek include a variety of traditional Nepalese dishes and some international cuisine. Common meals are dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and soups. While the menu may vary between lodges, you can generally expect hearty and nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up. Some lodges may offer additional snacks and beverages.
