A demanding 16-day circuit through the Khumbu that crosses Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La, the Everest Three Passes Trek combines high alpine passes, glacial lakes and authentic Sherpa villages. Prepare for long days, high elevations and weather-dependent flights to Lukla.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the Lukla plane into thin air and a sky so close it feels tangible — ridgelines cut a clean line against a high blue that seems to push the world upward. The route threads mountain villages, glacial moraines and alpine lakes, climbing through Namche’s bustling terraces before the thin, sharp crossing of Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La.
Difficulty
difficult
Duration
16 days (approx.)
Fitness Level
Requires very good aerobic fitness and experience hiking 6–8 hours on consecutive days at altitude; previous high-altitude trekking strongly recommended.
Wildlife
History
The Khumbu has long been home to Sherpa communities whose trade and pilgrimage routes predate modern trekking; the area later became central to Himalayan mountaineering after the 1953 Everest ascent.
Conservation
Sagarmatha National Park regulates access to protect fragile alpine ecosystems; trekkers should pack out waste, use designated toilets where available, and support community-run lodges to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Unlock the Secrets of the Himalayas: A Challenging Everest Three Passes Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prioritize acclimatization
Use the scheduled rest days in Namche and Gokyo — slow ascent is the best prevention against altitude illness.
Expect varied underfoot conditions
Bring sturdy waterproof boots and trekking poles for stone steps, moraine and occasional snow on the cols.
Build buffer days for Lukla flights
Flights to/from Lukla are frequently delayed; keep at least one spare day in Kathmandu before or after the trek.
Carry cash and permits
Small villages accept limited cards — bring cash (Nepalese rupees) and carry your Sagarmatha National Park permit and TIMS card.
Down insulated jacket
Warm core layer for frigid nights and high-pass winds.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots (broken in)
Support and traction on rocky trails, moraine and occasional snow.
Sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C
Lodge sleeping temperatures can drop well below freezing at higher camps.
Trekking poles
Reduce impact on knees during descents and help on unstable moraines and snow slopes.