A demanding 20-day traverse of the Khumbu that links Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar and the Gokyo lakes via Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La. Expect long high-altitude days, teahouse nights and panoramic Himalayan exposure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You emerge from the thin, oxygen-keen air at Lukla and the valley opens: prayer flags snap, a glacier rumbles in the distance, and the trail climbs into a world that measures time by altitude rather than clocks.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
18–20 days
Fitness Level
Requires excellent cardiovascular fitness, multi-day endurance and prior high-altitude trekking experience; able to carry a daypack and short stretches with a 8–12 kg load.
Wildlife
History
The trail traces centuries-old Sherpa trade and pilgrimage routes through the Khumbu; Sagarmatha National Park was established in 1976 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Conservation
Teahouse culture concentrates impact—carry out waste where possible, avoid single-use plastics, and follow guide instructions to protect fragile alpine vegetation and water sources.
Reserve your spot on the Everest Three High Passes Trek - 20 Days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prioritize acclimatization days
Build and respect rest days at Namche, Dingboche and Gokyo to reduce altitude sickness risk and improve summit-day performance.
Allow buffer for Lukla flights
Flights to/from Lukla are weather-dependent—book an extra day in Kathmandu or at trip end to avoid missed connections.
Carry cash in small denominations
Tea houses, tips, and basic supplies are cash-only in many villages; ATMs are unreliable above Lukla.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, broken-in waterproof boots with ankle support and seasonal microspikes or light crampons will save time and energy on icy sections.
Insulated down jacket
Lightweight, compressible warmth for high-altitude mornings and pass crossings.
Sturdy waterproof trekking boots
Support and protection on rocky moraines and wet trails between villages.
Crampons or microspikes
Critical for icy approaches on Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La in cold months.
winter
Headlamp with spare batteries
Early starts and long pre-dawn ascents (Kala Patthar, passes) require reliable lighting.