This 19‑day circuit threads three 5,300m passes through the Khumbu: Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La. Expect glacier moraines, Gokyo’s blue lakes, tea‑house nights and sustained high‑altitude trekking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You rise before dawn in Kathmandu, the city lights shrinking beneath a small Twin Otter as it arcs toward Lukla. The air tastes of diesel and anticipation; below, the Khumbu valley opens into a chain of ridgelines, monasteries and prayer flags that mark the route inward. Over the next three weeks the trail alternates between rhododendron forests and wind-scoured moraines, climbing steep switchbacks to Chhukung, threading narrow ice-scarred gullies over Cho La and cresting the Kongma La and Renjo La passes above 5,300 m.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
19 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness with prior multi‑day hiking experience; able to carry a daypack and sustain 6–8 hour days at altitude.
Wildlife
History
The Khumbu has long been a trade corridor between Nepal and Tibet; Sherpa communities shaped local mountaineering support networks since early Everest expeditions.
Conservation
The trek passes through Sagarmatha National Park, where waste management and responsible trekking (pack‑in/pack‑out and minimal fuel wood use) are ongoing priorities to protect fragile high‑altitude ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Everest Three High Pass Trek 19 days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prioritize acclimatization
Built‑in rest days in Namche and Dingboche reduce AMS risk — don’t skip them and keep daily elevation gain moderate.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, broken‑rock‑rated hiking boots with firm ankle support are essential; microspikes can help on icy sections in shoulder seasons.
Sun and wind protection
High altitude intensifies UV and wind chill — pack a high SPF sunscreen, UV sunglasses and a windproof shell.
Permit and documentation
Sagarmatha National Park permit and TIMS are required; carry passport copies and keep permits handy for park checks.
Insulated down jacket
Critical for sub‑zero nights and high‑altitude wind chill.
fall
Sturdy trekking boots
Support and ankle protection on rocky, uneven trails and scree.
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and stabilize on loose scree and icy patches.
High‑SPF sunscreen & glacier glasses
Protects skin and eyes from intense UV at altitude and reflective snow glare.