About Everest High Pass Trek
The Everest High Pass Trek is the most adventurous and challenging trek in the Khumbu region specially designed for those who are seeking more than just a classic trek. Also known as the Everest Three Passes Trek, the venture is popular as an amazing journey in Nepal's Himalayas that includes trekking on prominent Everest roads as well as exploring the Khumbu region's distinctive gems. The three passes trek takes you to the remote part of the region, where you get to explore hidden villages, fine valleys, high passes, narrow gullies, and beautiful moraines.
The name of the package itself says three high passes, in which you will cross three high and challenging passes of the Khumbu region, Renjo La Pass, Cho La Pass and Kongma La Pass. Crossing these passes is difficult, however, the views you get to witness from the top of them are sensational. The pass trekking is a perfect way to explore the Khumbu region and its unspoiled beauties.
The trek that includes the high passes is not for everyone! You have to be physically fit with strong stamina and endurance to go on this trek. From tempting landscape views to the panoramic Himalayas, rich culture and tradition of the locals, adventure, challenges, bright rushing days, and calm starry nights, the trek is a truly rewarding venture.
At some places, you will find yourself surrounded by other fellow trekkers and locals talking, smiling, and exploring, whereas at some point there will be only you and the Himalayas alone spending time with each other. The three passes trek represents the perfect balance of everything that one might need during the trek.
The rugged landscape of the high passes is populated by the famous high mountain people named “the Sherpas” following a customary way of life. The trek offers a chance to witness the land of the Sherpa and visit Buddhist monasteries along with occasional sightings of rare wildlife like musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, snow leopard, pheasants, and snow cocks. And, the most legendary Yeti is believed to be living in this region as well.
The trekking in the Everest region is suited for serious adventurers searching for a hard trek in Nepal's Everest region that includes crossing high mountain passes. In its 22-days length, this journey takes you to indigenous Sherpa cultures, a primitive lifestyle, breathtaking mountains, and high passes. Along the route, you'll see Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Nuptse, and Makalu, as well as some of the world's highest massifs.
In addition, this trek brings you to two of the most popular Himalayan vistas, Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar. Kala Patthar, at 5,643m above sea level, is the highest point on the trek. You can obtain a 360-degree view of the mountains from the summit of this viewpoint, which includes Mt. Everest, Pumori, Lingtren, Nuptse, and Changtse.
Outfitter Nepal has extensive expertise in conducting treks in Nepal's Himalayas. Our Three Passes 22-days trek itinerary package allows you to go on the most thrilling adventure of your life. Join us on one of our Three Passes Trek departure dates, or get in touch with us to tailor an Everest trek to your specific needs. Enjoy this exhilarating, breathtaking journey knowing that our qualified, experienced guides and porters will be ready to assist you at every turn. At Outfitter Nepal, we go to great lengths to ensure that all of your trekking aspirations come true. We look forward to assisting you in creating lifelong memories on your holiday, which can be completely tailored to your preferences.
It is impossible to convey all about the place and its beauty in a single article. Explore blogs on our website!
Here are some of the most compelling reasons to book your Three Passes Trek to Everest with us.
Lukla flight and why? Find the things you will get to see & experience during the Everest Three High Pass Trek
A short 35 minutes flight will take you to the starting point of the ultimate Everest Trek, Lukla. Flying to Lukla is amazing, and it takes a lot of courage to stay on that short trip. The flight will be breathtakingly beautiful and exciting. One of the greatest pleasures of trekking in the Everest region is the flight. What is it about this flight that makes it so thrilling?
It is, in fact, the landing strip of Lukla Airport. At 525 meters (1,729 feet), it has one of the world's shortest runways and one of the world's highest airports at 9,334 feet (2,845 m). When you factor in the steepness of the runway, which dangles from the side of a mountain, you've arrived at the ultimate destination.
The adventurous Trek through Sagarmatha National Park
The Three Passes Trek through Sagarmatha National Park takes you through a variety of climatic zones and vegetation. You travel through Sagarmatha National Park from Monjo onwards, which is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. This park is also a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. The trek includes numerous ascents and descents, as well as traversing various streams and dense woodlands. During the climb to Everest Base Camp, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kwangde, Kangtaiga, and Gyachyung Kang can be seen.
Sagarmatha National Park has long been used as a refuge for endangered animals and birds. The Red Panda and Snow Leopard are two rare animals found in Sagarmatha National Park. The birdlife of Sagarmatha National Park has long been a lure for visitors.
Best trekking route in the Everest Region
This High Pass trek in the Everest Region allows you to experience the spectacular beauty of the world's highest mountain, Mt. Everest. The tour begins with a scenic Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla. The Everest region route begins in upper Phakding and follows the Dudh Koshi valley, turning in the direction of Sherpa's "bustling Namche Bazaar," in which we are surrounded by beautiful Himalayan views.
The beauty of the village surroundings, such as the exquisite Rhododendron, Magnolia, and enormous fir forest, will astound you while trekking. This journey will take you through the exhilarating Gokyo Valley, which is located adjacent to the Khumbu, as well as the Everest Base Camp.
Spend the night in the biggest Sherpa residence area, Namche Bazar
Namche Bazaar is a significant stop on the High Pass route. It's a great place to visit if you want to explore Nepal's Himalayan area and mountains. The first view of Everest may be seen along the paths from Monjo to Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar, at 3,500 meters above sea level, is the beginning point for treks to Everest and other Himalayan peaks. It's a bustling market town with everything from trekking and climbing equipment to Tibetan trinkets.
The picturesque Namche serves as the Everest region’s entrance. It also serves as a memorial to previous mountaineering trips and gives information on Sherpa culture and lifestyle. Yak cheese and butter are well-known in Namche. Namche was once a major trading centre in the Khumbu region, located on the side of an arch-shaped mountain with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks from all points in the valley. One of the highlights of the journey is Namche! Trekkers usually remain here for several days to acclimate. It's a given that your visit to Namche will be enjoyable!!
Visit the oldest and the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region, the Tengboche monastery
Throughout the Everest trek route, the Tengboche Monastery is the main attraction for trekkers, mountaineers, and everyone else. This old monastery, which is also a very important religious holy site in Khumbu, offers breathtaking views of Mt. Amadablam and the surrounding Himalayas. All pilgrims and visitors who enter this hallowed site will be blessed by Guru Rinpoche.
Lama Gulu erected the Tengboche monastery in 1961, but it was devastated by the 1934 earthquake. The monastery was later restored in the same year. However, the monastery was destroyed by fire in 1989 and had to be rebuilt. Regardless of these tragedies, the Tengboche monastery is the Khumbu region's oldest and largest.
Cross three high passes: Kongma La Pass, Cho La Pass & Renjo La Pass
The Everest Passes Trek Itinerary package provides an overview of Everest trekking. You'll traverse through three high passes: Kongma La pass, Cho La pass, and Renjo La pass, as well as see Everest Base Camp. As we climb towards Gokyo valley lake and view point of Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, we get stunning views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. It is considered a difficult journey and is favoured by adventure seekers who want to experience everything. The trail to these passes is tough, steep, and rocky. However, upon reaching the top of all these three passes, you can see the fantastic landscape views.
Explore the Everest Base Camp
What can be more intriguing than reaching the base of the world's highest mountain, Mt. Everest? Reaching Everest Base Camp itself is a huge achievement. From here, you can see panoramic views of numerous Himalayan mountains like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Baruntse, and Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, etc.
At the foot of the Khumbu Glacier, Everest Base Camp is surrounded by some of the world's most recognized peaks. For trekkers from all over the world, the Everest Base Camp is a must-see! Every year, thousands of hikers visit Everest Base Camp and other Nepalese circuits without attempting to reach the peaks. Mt. Everest's base camp is located at the base of the world's tallest mountain (8,848 m). Reaching the Everest Base Camp is a significant accomplishment in and of itself. Beautiful views of the Himalayan Mountains and glaciers may be seen from Everest Base Camp.
Spend a couple of nights in the picturesque Gokyo Lake Valley
Gokyo valley is one of the most beautiful villages, where you will spend the night in the Khumbu region. Located in stunning Gokyo Valley, Gokyo village presents a calm and peaceful environment. Even though you will see fellow trekkers during the peak season, still, the atmosphere here is divine.
The trek in the High Pass region is an exciting excursion to a remote settlement in the magnificent Gokyo Valley, where only a few trekkers make the route. The views you'll get here are magnificent. Surreal beauty includes high Himalayan Mountains, massive glaciers, icefalls, chilly streams, and shimmering lakes.
Witness stunning Gokyo Lake
The Gokyo Lakes, located in the Sagarmatha National Park and close to the Everest Base Camp, are a fantastic place to relax and enjoy a peaceful and exciting atmosphere. At an altitude of 4,700m to 5,000m above sea level, these lakes are the world's highest freshwater lakes. The Gokyo Lakes are made up of six lakes, the largest of which is Thonak Lake. These lakes are unique in that they have higher oxygen levels even at higher elevations. The lakes receive fresh water from the Ngozumpa glacier, which is also the largest glacier in the Himalayas. The turquoise blue colour of the lake surrounded by snow-covered mountains under the blue sky is mesmerizing to see.
Trekking to these tranquil and clean lakes is a fantastic way to see a variety of fascinating and enchanting sights. Gokyo Lakes is noted for its spiritual aspect as well as its challenging treks and tourism. These lakes are significant religious sites for Hindus and Buddhists. This location is packed with worshippers for the holy baths in the lakes during the Janai Purnima festival in August. People venerate this location as the home of Nag Devata (Snake God). The site's main attraction is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.
Things you should know before keeping the High Passes in your Everest Trek Plan!
Three High Passes Trek itinerary
The trek begins with a short thrilling flight to Lukla. From here, you will trek following the Dudh Koshi River and Sagarmatha National Park to reach Namche Bazar. From here, the trail ascends to Chhukung via Tengboche and Dingboche. Trekking on a rugged steep path, you will ascend to the first pass, Kongma La Pass. Descend from the pass towards Lobuche, and head to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep. From here onwards, the trail moves to Gokyo valley crossing the second pass, Cho La Pass. And, then comes the third and final pass, Renjo La Pass. Passing by Lunde and Thame, you reach Namche Bazaar and head back to Lukla.
Everest High Pass Trek Cost
A group of 12 persons can embark on the 22-days trek for US$ 1700. This is the standard package price from Outfitter Nepal. We can also manage the package budget if you have a party of more than 12 people. If you're a solo trekker or a small group of travellers, the cost of the High Passes trek can range from US$ 1800 to US$ 2100, depending on your budget. Please keep in mind that if you want to change the accommodation or food services included in the overall standard pricing package, the trek cost will increase.
Even during trekking in the Everest region, we can upgrade your accommodation options for you to a deluxe hotel room or tourist standard accommodation with attached toilets for the deluxe and luxury plans. The cost of luxurious accommodation in the Everest Region can reach US$150 per night, while lodges at higher elevations are more basic and have fewer amenities which may not go as high.
Therefore, the cost of a trekking package in the Everest region can vary depending on whether you want to personalize your accommodations or make modifications to the itinerary! To learn more about the services offered with the standard Trek cost for the three passes trek, read the cost including and cost excluding parts.
Best time to go trekking in the Everest Three high Pass
The motto reads, "Nepal for all seasons." Trekking in Nepal is always a good idea because you can trek any time of year. Spring and autumn are, however, the best seasons for trekking in the Everest Region while also including the three passes! The weather has become more consistent and pleasant, making the travel more enjoyable. The weather is more stable and moderate in these months. Spring is from March to May, whereas autumn is from October to November.
If you trek during the monsoon season, it becomes tougher. The path becomes muddy and hazardous during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall. You must take care when moving. Thus, if you are a newbie, it is better to avoid trekking during the Monsoon. If you're a seasoned hiker, you'll relish every challenge regardless of the season.
You can trek in the Everest region in the winter, but most trekkers will not choose to do so due to the intense cold. The greatest time to photograph the Himalayas is in the winter. The trail is usually crowded, however as you will be doing the most difficult trek in the region, you will not see as many fellow trekkers. Likewise, the Everest region is completely encased in snow during the winter. This will make walking and passing the paths tough.
Accommodation During the High Pass Trek
We can also assist you in finding a high-end hotel and teahouse while staying within your budget. Luxury and premium hotels and lodges, as well as budget hotels and lodges, are available during the Everest trekking. The rooms offer amenities like as comfortable mattresses with cushions, electric blankets, hot and cold showers, free Wi-Fi, and more. The rooms are normally small yet comfortable, and they are usually shared by two people. A mattress, blanket, and pillow are among the items in the room. If you're travelling alone, we can arrange for separate accommodations.
What to eat during trekking in the Everest Region?
Your body will require enough carbohydrates and proteins because we'll be trekking at high altitudes around the world's tallest peak. The food we provide on this walk is simple and sanitary! We encourage people to eat local cuisine and delicacies since they are far more hygienic. It's not preferable to have frozen foods that take days to get to the trails.
We handpick the best hotels, resorts, and restaurants, ensuring that the food is fresh, healthy, and delicious. We recommend Dal Bhat, a Nepalese cuisine that provides enough carbohydrates and protein for your body. You'll get plenty of protein from the lentils, beans, and pulses soup. Syakpa, commonly known as Sherpa stew, is another favourite dish! Seasonal vegetables will also be served in the guest's house, providing your body with essential nutrients.
You can sample other menu items including Momo (dumplings), locally grown Barley, Buckwheat, Millet, and Corn Roti (Bread), noodles, sandwiches, bakery products, tea, coffee, and more if you give them a chance. Buckwheat, millet, and barley are high-fiber grains that are also nutritionally dense. Noodles, spaghetti, macaroni, pizza, lasagna, various curry dishes, and fried rice are just a few examples of cuisines that may be prepared with minimal effort.
We propose liquids such as green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, and garlic soup (which is a must) as well as fresh vegetable products at high heights. Even though non-vegetarian options, we will not recommend them because the meat in such facilities may not be as sanitary.
How difficult is it to cross the Three High Passes?
This is one of the most difficult treks in the Khumbu region. You will cross three high passes of the region. The trail will include numerous ascends and descends through steep rugged paths. You will trek on glacier moraines and glacial paths. Therefore, good health and strong stamina are needed to go on the trekking journey.
The essentials to a successful trek, though, are average physical health and self-confidence. It's a good idea to start exercising and running a few weeks before the trip to improve your strength and ability for this adventure. Your prior trekking experience can be beneficial.
If you have a history of medical concerns, you must contact your doctor before embarking on this expedition. Before scheduling this trek, anyone with pre-existing medical issues such as heart, lungs, or any other major ailment should inform your tour operators.
How fit do you have to be for trekking for crossing the Three High Pass?
Walking for three weeks is physically demanding. This challenging three passes trek will need you to walk for approximately 6 hours per day on average. There is no other choice; you can't give up in the middle since there are no other options. You have to be emotionally and physically prepared to perform this Everest area three high pass trek.
You'll need to prepare your body so that you don't become fatigued easily. You should prepare for this trek by doing smaller climbs or treks to get to know yourself better.
For this trek, it's also crucial to be mentally strong. You'll be travelling in an area where there are no facilities. Here, good meals and warm clothing are considered luxuries. To be able to adjust to the rural lifestyle, you will need to prepare and motivate yourself. Prepare for the worst-case scenario, but don't overthink it. The difficulties of the trek in the Everest region will increase if one is not mentally prepared.
Trekking is delightful if you enjoy the journey without feeling rushed. If you love nature, she will love you back. So take in the scenery, enjoy your ride, and keep yourself motivated.
What should you do to prepare yourself for the high pass Trek?
We urge that you practice and prepare carefully for the trek before packing your bags and heading to the Himalayas. We recommend that you participate in cardio-related activities and take brief walks around your city.
Every day on this journey, you will gain approximately 300 to 700 meters in height. You'll be walking from Lukla, at 2,840 meters, to Kala Patthar, at 5,643 meters. As a result, the risk of high altitude sickness is great on this trek. Make sure your body and mind can cope with the elevation change. If you've never hiked before, start with a less challenging lower-altitude journey before taking on this challenge.
Is Everest High Pass trek the right choice for you?
Keep in mind that the trekking itinerary is not a five-star vacation. This trek will take you over three high passes totaling over 5,000m. You'll also reach a maximum elevation point of 5,643m. As a result, this trek necessitates both physical and mental fitness. As a result, this trek is best suited to experienced trekkers with prior Himalayan trekking expertise. If this is your first experience trekking in the Himalayas, we recommend starting with less difficult treks in the Everest or Annapurna regions.
The trek to the three passes is a 22-days trek that takes you into the Himalayas for 17 days. This expedition will require you to walk five to six hours every day on average. If you believe you have the stamina to take on this task, we're convinced you'll be able to do it.
Are there any alternative routes to the High Pass Trek?
There are various routes to choose from, but it is better to select one that gradually increases in elevation. Some clockwise routes from Namche to Thame take only five or six days to reach the first high pass. Unlike the counter-clockwise path, it takes at least 8-9 days to reach the Kongma La pass, the first high pass.
One of the biggest reasons affecting three passes Trek Difficulty is not choosing the right itinerary. It is assumed that these passes are above 5,000 meters in altitude. As a result, trekkers can use the alternate route from Namche, as indicated. The EBC trek leads to Dingboche. From there, you'll follow the path to Kongma-la, the first pass. This is an excellent approach for avoiding altitude sickness and acclimatization.
How long is the duration of the trek in the High Pass Region?
You will have to walk for 6 hours on average every day for nearly three weeks, if not longer. Landslide-affected places, steep trails, and frightening terrains make up the itinerary. Climbs are challenging, and glaciers add to the difficulties of the trek. It's dangerous to cross the glaciers. You'll have to step on the ice, and the warm weather may cause the ice to break if you do it later in the day.
The most difficult aspect of the trek is the numerous uphill, which are quite arduous in comparison to other uphill treks. You may also have to climb boulders and landslide-prone regions. The trekking route passes across a few glaciers, which are difficult to cross due to their slippery nature. You will be forced to walk on diminishing ice. There is a possibility of cracking the ice if you traverse this glacier after 10 a.m.
One thing to keep in mind is that during the three passes trek, you will have to cross the glacier before reaching or crossing the Cho La Pass. This glacier takes around 40 minutes to cross and will be terrifying and tough since you will be walking across melting ice that is becoming thinner and thinner. To avert this, you must cross this glacier before 10 a.m. because the ice tends to melt as the sun rises.
Do you need any guide to do the Three High Pass Trek?
Hiring an experienced guide is the best way to ensure your safety on the trek region. At Outfitter Nepal, we always encourage choosing qualified, licensed guides, and this list is no exception! A trained guide will be familiar with both the path and local weather patterns, as well as how to respond to them. In the event of an emergency, a skilled guide should also be conversant with first aid and the best procedures. We hope that this blog has given you some useful information that you can implement during your trekking in the Everest region.
A good guide can mean the difference between crossing the three passes and not crossing the three passes. And we can tell you that your trip to the Everest Region will be both comfortable and fun thanks to our experts at Outfitter Nepal!
We, at Outfitter Nepal, have a lot of experience leading treks in Nepal's Himalayas. Our Everest Region Trek packages will take you on the most exciting experience of your life.
What is the weather condition in the Everest region?
Remember that the weather in the Himalayas, particularly in the upper stages of the trek, is typically unpredictable. In the upper elevations of the trek, you may be subjected to intense cold, rain, and, in the worst-case scenario, snow. Make sure you're prepared to deal with unexpected events. Furthermore, even if you're trekking during the summer, we recommend bringing extra clothing and weather protection to deal with such conditions.
During the peak season, the weather is mostly fine and very consistent. Even yet, the temperature lowers suddenly and unexpectedly at night. And temperatures below freezing can be extremely uncomfortable, so bring plenty of layers and warm inners gear when trekking in this area.
The weather can also cause a delay in the commencement of the trek. Taking a flight to Lukla is the only way to go to the Everest region in a short amount of time. Thus, the early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is frequently cancelled owing to inclement weather. The weather must be favourable for a plane to safely land at the Lukla airport. Hence, this airport is regarded as one of the most dangerous in the world. So, if you're trekking in the Everest region, you should plan on taking a few extra days to cover your trek and make it go as smoothly as possible.
There's also a good chance that an avalanche will occur, so you should be especially cautious. Thus, you must be careful while trekking in the Everest Region.
Are there any ATM services in the Everest Region?
The three passes journey does not include an ATM because it takes you to a secluded location. Namche has the last ATM service in the Everest Region. After Namche, there are no ATM terminals. Since the trek begins in Namche, make sure you bring adequate cash for the journey.
What is the basic stuff I should not forget during trekking in the Everest Region?
- Trekking Boots
- Sandals/Crocs
- Few pairs of undergarments
- High quality down jacket and pant
- Thermal wears
- T-shirts and trousers
- Trekking pole
- A pair of gloves
- Woolen hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water purification tablets
- Energy bars
What should I do to prevent AMS?
Our 22 days of Everest trekking to the Three High Pass gives your body enough time to adjust to the altitude. Doing everything slowly, walking at a moderate steady speed like a snail, and drinking plenty of liquids is the best way to avoid any difficulties.
The most common symptom of altitude sickness is a minor headache, but other symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) include exhaustion, dizziness and loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, difficulty walking, and rattling breath. Medications should be carried out if necessary!
Are any permits needed for the Everest Region Trek?
A TIMS (USD 10) permit and a Sagarmatha National Park permit (USD 30) are required, as they are for other Everest region treks. At Outfitter Nepal, we will arrange all these permits for you. TIMS permit is taken in Kathmandu and your Sagarmatha National Park permits in Monjo (a village checkpoint you'll pass through on the first day of your trip) if you're organizing your trek yourself.
Why should you choose Outfitter Nepal?
- We understand our client’s expectations and have never failed to surpass them. On our Trip Advisor and Review pages, you can see what our prior customers have to say about us.
- We only hire local trekking guides and porters in the Himalayan regions of Everest and other locations.
- At Outfitter Nepal, we put the safety and security of our customers first. We place a high value on customers' happiness. Hence, we go to great lengths to ensure that our guests enjoy a memorable time in Nepal's Himalayas.
- Our Professional Local Trekking Guides are well-educated and multilingual, including English, which is widely spoken. The guides are government-licensed and highly trained, while the porters are physically fit owing to the high altitude. We take trekking in the Everest Region seriously while still making it entertaining!
- We have guaranteed departure dates and we never cancel on you!