Everest Three Passes Trek – Renjo La Pass (5,3401m), Cho La Pass (5420m), and Kongma La Pass (5,530m) – are crossed in this epic Everest area trek. Rated as one of best experiences of, if not the best of Everest region, this journey provides ample excitement, adventure, and without a doubt, life-long memories.
Covering the distance of 153 Km, The HV Treks’ Everest Three Passes Trek is a 21 day trek. Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, chortens, prayer flags, the hospitality of the Sherpa and their timeless villages, raging rivers, and Yak caravans provide the backdrop in the lower elevations. Each Pass brings momentous panoramic views of the major peaks in this roof-of-the-world. “Stunning”, to describe the experience, is an understatement. The presence of Mt Everest, or Sagarmatha as the Nepalis know it, becomes intimate as we encounter it day after day. The HV Treks’ adventure includes climbing Gokyo Re peak (5,330m) and camping by the Gokyo lakes. These pristine glacial lakes are magical. The Trek starts and finishes in Lukla, which is a short but scenic flight from Kathmandu. So many of our trekkers have said this trek is without parallel in the world… it’s like visiting the realm of the gods.
Brief Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 02: Kathmandu-Lukla (flight) 2840m – Phakding (2610 m)2-3 hours
Day 03: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours
Days.04: Namche Bazaar Rest/ Acclimatization
Day 05: Namche (3,440 meters) to Thame (3,800 meters). 4 – 5 hours Walk
Day 06: Thame (3,800 m) to Marulung (4,210 m). 5-6 hours Walk
Day 07: Marlung (4,210 m) to Lungden (4,380 m). 2 – 3 hours Walk.
Day 08: Lungden (4,380 m) – Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) – Gokyo (4,800 m). 8-9 hours Walk
Day 09 : Gokyo Village (4,800 m) – Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)to Thaknak 5-6 hours Walk
Day 10: Thaknak to Dzongla (4,830m) vis the Cho-La Pass (5,420 m) . 7-8 hours Walk
Day 11: Dzongla (4,830 m) to Lobuche (4,940 m). 4-5 hours Walk
Day 12: From Lobuche (4,940 m), we walk through the trail of the Everest Base Camp Trek. to Gorak Shep (5,170 m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). 8 – 9 hours Walk.
Day 13: Gorak Shep (5,170 m) hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and Descend to Lobuche (4,940 m). 7 – 8 hours Walk
Day 14: Lobuche (4,940 m) to Kongma La (5,535 m) to Chhukung (4730 m). 8-9 hours Walk
Day 15: Chhukung (4,730 m) to Tengboche (3,860 m). 5-6 hours Walk
Day 16: Tengboche – Monjo (2835m) 5- 6 hours
Day 17: Monjo–Lukla (2840m)4-5 hours
Day 18: Lukla – Kathmandu (1337) by flight 35 minutes to Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 19: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu or Half Day Bhaktapur Sightseeing (13370m)
Day 20: Departure from Kathmandu (13370m)
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern to Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Please understand that the HV Treks trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found prudent. Unfavorable circumstances may occur during the trek. Dangerous weather conditions, the condition of a group member, natural events such as landslides can force changes in the itinerary. All efforts will be made to keep to the planned itinerary. The HV Treks leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary.
Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Also Important: on Domestic Flight (Kathmandu – Lukla)
The Government of Nepal has announced an issue for the flight operation to Lukla. Due to heavy traffic congestion in Kathmandu airport, most of the flights from and to Lukla are managed from Ramechhap airport which is located 130km from Kathmandu (approximately 3-4 hours drive). However, direct flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is available in off-seasons.
Alternatively, helicopter arrangements can be made on 4 people sharing basis with the addition of USD $ 550 for one-way flight per person to change your airplane flights to the helicopter. We will try to coordinate and form groups at the airport for this arrangement, but we cannot guarantee it. The jeep drive to Ramechhap and flight to Lukla is almost always guaranteed unless the flight is canceled due to bad weather conditions.
Travelers are suggested to advise us on the preferred alternatives for the flights to/from Lukla affected due to possible delays or disruptions.
Important Also:
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and ensure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
You are welcomed to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal renowned for historical monuments, Hindu Temples, and Buddhist Stupas/Monasteries. We meet our guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative will be waiting with a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition placard with our guests’ names displayed. After dropping luggage at the hotel, guests are taken for a short sightseeing tour.
Day 02: Kathmandu-Lukla (flight) 2840m – Phakding (2610 m)2-3 hours
Today we are going to have an exciting and adventurous flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. We can compare this flight with the Moutain Flight. The flight is supposed to be exciting due to the climatic conditions; especially visibility and wind that affect our flight most may cause to delay. In a little turboprop with the capacity of about 14 passengers, we fly in the altitude up to 3500 m to Lukla. If the day is clear we are lucky to view in the north the ranges of snow peaks of the huge mountains bordering with Tibet. And to the south, we can view the beautiful small villages and terraces of the fertile lands. After landing in Lukla, we walk downhill up to Chheplung then we walk uphill along the Dudhkoshi River to Phakding. Wooden and suspension bridges in the several points welcome us to cross the river. We rest in Phakding today, the Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition trekking guide will take a report and give a briefing in every evening about the trek that we are going to make next day.
Day 03: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours
Today the path goes uphill and downhill to Namche Bazar. We reach Monjo, a village which is the entrance of the Sagarmatha National Park too. This point is a very popular place so the trekkers don’t miss the chance to take some pictures over here. This is the point where our permit and TIMS cards are checked. Then we walk downhill to Dudh Khosi. We walk along the Dudh Koshi river crossing wooden and suspension bridges in several points. After we cross Larja Bridge over Dudh Koshi River, we can view the panoramic glance of Mt. Everest in about one and half an hour’s walk. We head to Namche Bazar, the very famous village in the Everest Region. We can hire horse if wish/needs at this point. We have a camp here. Especially the Friday and Saturday markets are very famous here. People from far and near come to make their business. Various things (local and imported) are displayed for sale. Especially people from Khumbu area (upper Namche Bazaar) come for shopping here on those markets.
Days.04: Namche Bazaar Rest/ Acclimatization
Today Hiking to Everest view hotel or Khumjung village
Since we are in the Everest Region Trek, we can view the Mt. Everest almost from everywhere. We rest in Namche Bazaar today, especially for the acclimatization. The tribes living in Namche Bazaar are the Sherpas in a majority. We can experience somehow the lifestyle of Sherpas who has a closed culture with the Tibetan. We can visit the museum about the Himalayan people. This is the place with army camp, health post, school, police check post, bakeries, internet cafes, discos, bars, snooker, pool, foreign money exchanger etc. are available. We can have a taste of local wine, alcohol, food etc. Number of shops and lodges welcome the tourists over here. Many trekkers stay here at least one or for several days for acclimatization. Especially the Friday and Saturday markets are very famous here. People from far and near come to make their business. Various things (local and imported) are displayed for sale. Especially people from Khumbu area (upper Namche Bazzar) come for shopping here on those market days. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition guide will arrange for our visit to the various places today.
Day 05: Namche (3,440 meters) to Thame (3,800 meters). 4 – 5 hours Walk
Today from Namche Bazaar, we will start ascending uphill. The hike involves a remarkable walk thru the dense green forests of pine, juniper, birch, and rhododendron. On the route, we will follow a river gorge and cross many small streams. We will encounter Buddhist Stupas, prayer paintings, and player flags too. Enjoying the splendid views of gigantic peaks, we will reach the Sherpa village of Thame. At Thame, we can have a rest while enjoying the warm drinks and snacks that the tea houses offer. From the Thame village, a short and steep climb uphill takes us to the Thame Monastery, the place of spirituality. We can enjoy the ceremony when the Lamas pray with chants and healing sounds of pipes called gyaling and drums. After a lovely time at the monastery, we will return to our tea house for a hot dinner. Overnight at Thame.
Day 06: Thame (3,800 m) to Marulung (4,210 m). 5-6 hours Walk
Today starting at Thame, after walking over a shallow pass, we will reach Tomboche. From there, we will walk to a river valley. The valley is full of rubble and boulder. We will see the snow-clad mountain ranges nearer. After a hike over hard and hurdles, we will reach Marulung. Once there we will enjoy a hot dinner and a quick sleep in a tea house at Maruleng.
Day 07: Marlung (4,210 m) to Lungden (4,380 m). 2 – 3 hours Walk.
Today After having warm breakfast at the tea house in Marlung, get ready for a hike up to Lungden. This hike is a sort of acclimatization hike. Enjoying the splendid views of spectacular Himalayas so near, we will walk to Lungden. There are few tea houses in Lungden where we can stay overnight. We will have time for rest and relaxation. Enjoy our day at Lungden and spend night here.
Day 08: Lungden (4,380 m) – Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) – Gokyo (4,800 m). 8-9 hours Walk
Today we will start walking from Lungden after taking breakfast. From Lungden, we will trek to Gokyo via Renjo La pass. The walk is strenuous as it involves crossing the Renjo La pass. At first, we will ascend the trail from Lungden unless we reach the big pastures and stone huts at the top. From the top, we will see splendid views of the valley below and the towering peaks including Cho yu. The trail now flattens as we walk towards the Renjo La Pass. Continuing the trail, witnessing the spectacular scenarios, we will reach to the top of Renjo-La (5,316m). The Renjo La Pass is one of the best viewpoints of the entire trek. The pass exhibits incredible mountain vistas. Also, we will get the best sight of the entire Gokyo Valley. From the pass, the trail is a descend down thru a rugged moraine trail. Finally, we will reach the bank of the Gokyo Lake where the Gokyo village sits. Gokyo lake site is one of the highest altitude settlements in the world. Spend night in a teahouse in Gokyo lake site.
Day 09 : Gokyo Village (4,800 m) – Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)to Thaknak 5-6 hours Walk
Today from the Gokyo lake site hotel, we will start early in the morning to Gokyo Ri. The beautiful summit of Gokyo Ri offers splendid views of at least four 8000m mountains, including Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. There are other smaller 7000m snow-clad mountains that you can observe from this viewpoint. Gokyo village a small settlement , and the Ngopnma glacier, the largest glacier in the Nepalese Himalayas and back to Gokyo lake site village. From here after breakfast, we will trek to Thaknak. The walk is enjoyable. We will be surrounded by a Himalayan atmosphere. Walking along the rugged trail while enjoying the great natural scenarios is an awesome experience. Spend night in Thaknak
Day 10: Thaknak to Dzongla (4,830m) vis the Cho-La Pass (5,420 m) . 7-8 hours Walk
Today Starting from Thangnak, we will continue towards the Cho La base thru an ascending trail. The Cho-La Base Camp is at high altitude. So, the temperature there is quite cold.
Walking over the snowy and icy trails up to the top of Cho La pass is physically challenging. From the pass, we will walk along the snowy trail to Zongla. We can see a great view of Mt. Cho oyu, Mt. Lotse and Mt. Amadablam from Dzongla. Stay in a teahouse in Dzongla.
Day 11: Dzongla (4,830 m) to Lobuche (4,940 m). 4-5 hours Walk
Today we will leave for Labuche. The route is slightly uphill. But most of the trail involves flat sections. On the way, while we feel tired, we can stop for a while to have birds eye view of the beautiful lakes and the stunning Mt. Ama Dablam.
On the trails to Lobuche, we will walk thru the pasture land and the most exotic sceneries of the Himalayan landscapes. Lobuche is a small Tibetan settlement in the Khumbu region, they are the migrant from Tibet. We will find tea houses at Lobuche where we can spend night.
Day 12: From Lobuche (4,940 m), we walk through the trail of the Everest Base Camp Trek. to Gorak Shep (5,170 m) to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). 8 – 9 hours Walk.
Today First, we will walk towards Gorak Shep. Gorak Shep is a beautiful village near the Everest Base Camp.
After reaching Gorak Shep, we will check into a teahouse to spend night. After resting for a while, it’s time to trek to the Everest Base Camp. We can leave our luggage at the tea house. A memorable hike from Gorak Shep takes us to the Everest Base Camp. We will enjoy our splendid moments at the base camp. The gorgeous sceneries of the Himalayas are breathtaking. Spending some time on the lap of Everest we will descend down to the tea house at Gorak Shep to spend night.
Day 13: Gorak Shep (5,170 m) hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and Descend to Lobuche (4,940 m). 7 – 8 hours Walk
Today from Gorak Shep, we will walk to the best vantage point in the Everest region, Kala Patthar. The impressive view of Mount Everest, Khumbu glacier, stunning lakes, and the snow-capped mt. peaks is amazing from this point. After enjoying the sightseeing at Kala Patthar, we will descend down to Lobuche to spend night.
Day 14: Lobuche (4,940 m) to Kongma La (5,535 m) to Chhukung (4730 m). 8-9 hours Walk
Today from Lobuche we’ll ascend uphill towards the Kongma La pass. The pass is also a high altitude pass. Crossing it can be challenging and physically more demanding yet, scenic at the same time. After crossing the pass, we will descend down to Chukkung, a small Sherpa settlement. We spend night in Chhukung.
Day 15: Chhukung (4,730 m) to Tengboche (3,860 m). 5-6 hours Walk
Today we are following the bank of Imja river, we will leave Chhukung village. Along the way, we will walk across lovely villages at Pangboche, Dingboche, Orsho, and Shomare. Following the trails of the Khumbu region, we will cross the hamlets of Milingo and Deboche and we will reach Tengboche. Spend night in Tengboche.
Day 16: Tengboche – Monjo (2835m) 5- 6 hours
We start back, back down to Namche Bazaar, back on the main trail that in the other direction, climbs to Everest Base Camp. Staying only briefly in Namche,we go to Monjo for the night. This isin order that we may arrive inLuklathe next day relatively relaxed.As before, the route follows the Dudhkoshi River, though this time pleasantly downhill. We cross the same single wide wooden plank suspension bridges. InMonjo,if we wish, we can visit the Uche Chholing Gompa.
Day 17: Monjo–Lukla (2840m)4-5 hours
Returning to Lukla, we will spend the night. Arriving in the afternoon, we will have time to enjoy the hospitality of Lukla. Like Namche Bazaar, it is a central town with markets, restaurants, cafes, bakeries, bars, and banks. And as in Namche Bazaar, each Thursday, local people come for the weekly open-air market. As the trekis now over,in the evening we all, the Himalayan Vacation and Treks guests and staff, have a party.
Day 18: Lukla – Kathmandu (1337) by flight 35 minutes to Kathmandu (1337m)
We fly to Kathmandu. Again, depending on the weather conditions,delays or cancellationsare in the realm of possibilities. If necessary and prudent, a charter plane/helicopter may be hired so that guests will not miss their international flightsfrom Kathmandu. US $ 250-350 is the usual cost.
Day 19: Rest/Shopping in Kathmandu or Half Day Bhaktapur Sightseeing (13370m)
This day is free time. If you wish, a sightseeing trip to the ancient temple/king’s seat of the world heritage site of incredible Bhaktapur can be arranged. The tour lasts 4 hours (it is an additional upcharge). In the evening, a Farewell Dinner is given by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition.
Day 20: Departure from Kathmandu (13370m)
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye. It will be not only goodbye, but also the welcome for next visit to Nepal.
Number of participants
Minimum number of participants: 2
Maximum number of participants: 14
Max Altitude: 5,545 meters
Best Season: March-November
Difficulty Level: Hard
December ,January and February
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So trekking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in Himalayas. Though it gets colder in night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively less trekkers on the trail.Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikings and cultural tour.It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Timal homestay,Timal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour for this places. Chitawan National park Bardiya National Park are also the places to have live experience of culture and rituals.
March , April and May
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze is felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of cloud can be seen in the sky during this season.So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal .So many tourist from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalyan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period.Peak climbing period can be enlength upto June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programmes during this period.This period offer plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.Except rhododendrons , many kind of natural flora and fauna makes Nepal very beautiful during this season
June ,July and August
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slight difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang , Upper Dolpa , Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
September , October and November
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our trek. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes.This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is the popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain , Tihar and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for civil workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favourable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal.Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period.So many tourist come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m are the best destination for climbing in this season.Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of nature of Nepal in this season.
Equipment & Packing List
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items