Everest Three Pass Trek (Renjo-La, Cho-La, Kongma-La)
The Everest Three Passes Trek includes Renjo La (5,465m), Cho La (5,375m), and Kongma La (5,553m). It is a challenging and strenuous trek, renowned in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Along this trail, trekkers experience a spectacular variety of Himalayan scenery and breathtaking views from the summits of the three passes.
This trek offers views of four of the world’s eight highest peaks: Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Cho Oyu (8,201m) and Makalu (8,463m).
The trek provides both an adventurous and well-structured experience. The three high passes Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La link the major valleys of the Everest region. The trek also includes ascents of Gokyo Ri (5,350m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m), one of the best viewpoints for Mount Everest. This trek offers arguably the ultimate Everest experience in the Khumbu Himalaya.
The highlights of the Three Passes Trek include trekking through the valleys, visiting Ama Dablam Base Camp, Everest Base Camp and a sunrise walk to Kala Patthar, which offers magnificent views of Everest and surrounding peaks. Other attractions include crossing Renjo La to reach the scenic Thame Valley, visiting Gokyo Lakes and enjoying electrifying views from Gokyo Ri. This trail also leads to Nangpa La and the Tibet-China border.
Everest High Pass Trekking is demanding and requires an experienced guide and porter due to the challenging routes. We provide highly professional guides and porters to ensure your trek is safe, healthy and successful. Everest View Treks and Expedition is a leading trekking company in Nepal, serving clients from Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, India, Sikkim and Darjeeling for the past three years. We take excellent care of transportation, accommodation, permits and other travel necessities. With our experienced team of guides, porters and cooks, you are guaranteed to enjoy your trekking adventure in Nepal.
Additional Information
Meals
During the Renjo La–Cho La–Kongma La Three Pass EBC Trek, trekkers can enjoy traditional Nepali meals, ethnic cuisines and international dishes such as Tibetan, Continental, Italian and Indian food. Options include pizza, chips, apple pie, hot chocolate, a variety of breads, drinks and snacks. Breakfast is served at the tea house or lodge where you spend the night. Lunch is served along the trail and dinner and breakfast are provided at the tea house where you stay overnight.
Accommodations
Accommodations during the trek are on a twin-sharing basis and included in the trip cost. They are selected based on hygiene, service quality, food and location. There are two types of accommodations: 15 nights will be spent in standard tea houses, lodges or hotels, typically with unheated rooms, wooden beds and foam mattresses. While we strive to provide the best tea houses available, some remote locations only have shared washing and toilet facilities.
Health and Experience Requirements
The Renjo La–Cho La–Kongma La Three Pass EBC Trek is suitable for passionate adventurers who can walk 6–7 hours a day with a light day pack. On some days, trekking may require even longer hours. Walking at high altitudes is physically more demanding than at lower altitudes. Individuals in good physical condition with above-average fitness and some hiking experience can complete this trek. A positive attitude, self-confidence and determination are key to success. Regular exercise and jogging for several weeks before the trek can help enhance strength and stability.
Travel Insurance
All clients must have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, accidents, air ambulance, helicopter rescue and treatment costs. Please note that we do not arrange or sell insurance.
Acclimatization
The trek itinerary is planned with careful attention to the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Ascending too quickly at high altitudes can cause serious medical conditions. Above 5,000m, oxygen levels are approximately 50% lower than at sea level. The body needs time to adapt to lower oxygen levels so itineraries allow sufficient time for acclimatization. Proper planning is essential to minimize the risk of AMS. Symptoms may include mild headaches, fever, loss of appetite or stomach discomfort.
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,275m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will need to complete customs formalities, including visa processing. Our representative will be waiting for you at the arrival gate holding an Everest View Treks display board. You will then be transferred to Hotel Manaslu or a similar category hotel. Overnight stay is included with bed and breakfast (B/B).
Kathmandu Flight to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
Early in the morning, your trek guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Kathmandu Domestic Airport to catch your flight to Lukla (2,840m). The flight is on a twin-engine aircraft and offers dramatic views of terraced hills and the Himalayan giants.
Upon arrival in Lukla, you will meet your porters (Sherpas) who will carry your luggage during the trek. From Lukla, the trail descends steeply for a short distance and then continues to Chheplung (2,660m) and Thado Koshi. Here, you will cross a suspension bridge and enjoy views of Mt. Kusum Kanguru (6,367m) at the head of the valley.
After crossing the bridge, the trail climbs slightly to reach Ghat (2,590m) on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, where you can make a short visit to a monastery. Then, the trail continues with an easy walk followed by a gentle climb to reach Phakding (2,610m). Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Phakding Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Today, the trail crosses the Dudh Koshi River and climbs gently up the valley to Toktok (2,760m) and Benkar (2,710m). The trail stays close to the river and passes through beautiful blue pine and rhododendron forests, which are especially spectacular in spring when the flowers bloom. Along the way, you will also see scenic waterfalls. From Benkar, you can admire the snow-capped peaks of Thamserku (6,623m) and Khumbi La (5,765m).
At Benkar, we cross the Dudh Koshi River. A short walk brings us to Monjo (2,840m). Just beyond Monjo, the trek enters Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, where permits will be checked. After this, the trail descends steeply over rocky terrain to large farm areas, crosses another bridge over the Dudh Koshi, and continues along the west bank.
A short distance up the river is Jorsale (2,830m). The trail follows the river for a while, then re-crosses the Dudh Koshi, and after some ups and downs, begins a steep climb near the confluence of the Bhote Koshi and Dudh Koshi rivers. After a short climb and crossing another bridge, the trail ascends steeply toward Namche Bazaar (3,440m).
About one hour before reaching Namche, you may catch your first views of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Nuptse (7,879m). Namche Bazaar is the gateway to the Khumbu region and the main trading village in the area. It hosts a busy Saturday market and serves as a meeting point for Hindu traders from the lowlands and Tibetan yak caravans arriving via the glaciated Nangpa La pass.
Overnight stay is at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Acclimatization is essential before heading to higher altitudes. Most trekkers schedule an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar as part of their trek. Today, you may choose to take a day excursion to Thame Village or a nearby viewpoint, but it is best to discuss your plans with your guide the night before.
A trek to Thame takes approximately 7–8 hours round trip and is popular for visiting Thame Monastery. However, many trekkers prefer the easier option of visiting a viewpoint to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas. From here, you can see peaks including Mt. Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Lhotse Shar (8,382m), Nuptse (7,879m), Peak 38 (7,591m), Ama Dablam (6,856m), Thamserku (6,623m), Kangtega (6,783m), Kusum Kanguru (6,367m), Cholatse (6,335m), Tabuche Peak (6,495m), Khumbi La (5,765m), and Kwangde Ri (6,011m), among others.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Namche Bazaar Trek to Thame (3,800m) – 5–6 Hours Walk
After breakfast in Namche Bazaar, the trail leads to the old village of Thamo, an easy walk through the valley. Thamo is a small Sherpa village where you can explore the local culture. From Thamo, the trail continues to Thame.
After lunch in Thame, you can rest and then explore the Sherpa village, its culture, and lifestyle. You can also visit a small hydropower station in the area and the local monastery, which offers insight into the region’s religious heritage.
Overnight stay will be at a basic lodge with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Thame Trek to Lumde (4,137m) – 4–5 Hours Walk
After breakfast at the lodge, enjoy an easy walk to Marlung along the Bhote Koshi River where you can take a short break. The trail then leads uphill to Lumde through a dry valley offering beautiful views of snow-capped mountains and the surrounding landscape.
Today, you will not pass any Sherpa villages as Thame is the last village in the valley. Once you reach Lumde, hike slightly higher than the lodge to help with acclimatization.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Lumde Trek to Renjo La Pass (5,465m) and Gokyo Lake (4,790m) – 8–9 Hours Walk
After breakfast, the trail leads uphill for about an hour and a half and then continues with an easy walk for a while. At the end, there is a steep climb to reach the top of Renjo La Pass, where you will enjoy an amazing view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse and the surrounding peaks.
You will also see Gokyo Lake with breathtaking views. From the top of Renjo La, the trail descends to the third lake, Gokyo Lake, where you will reach your lodge. After some rest at the lodge, you can take a short climb to the ridge to explore the nearby glacier and its small glacial lake, which is stunning to see.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Gokyo Ri – Gokyo (5,483m)
Gokyo is famous for its marvelous views and beautiful shimmering high-altitude lakes. Acclimatization at Gokyo is an ideal opportunity to enjoy the outstanding beauty of the Gokyo Valley.
Today, we take a steep climb to the top of Gokyo Ri (5,483m), which rewards you with stunning views of the entire Khumbu Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang. The Gokyo Valley is home to six beautiful lakes. After enjoying the views, we return to Gokyo Village.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Gokyo to Dragnag (4,700m)
Today we leave the Gokyo Valley and descend to Dragnag, which is the gateway to Cho La Pass.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Thagnak – Cho La Pass – Dzongla (4,830m / 15,840ft) – 7–8 Hours
Today, we trek to Cho La Pass, one of the highlights of this trip. This will be one of the toughest days. The pass itself is not technically difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. The trail can be slippery as the vertical rocks are glazed with ice, so caution is required.
The trail climbs continuously from Phedi through a ravine and rocky terrain. Along the way, we trek past the side of a frozen lake before reaching the top of the pass, which is decorated with prayer flags. On the descent, we pass through some crevasses before arriving at Dzongla, a beautiful village offering panoramic views of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak and Pheriche Village far below.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m / 16,207ft) – 4–5 Hours
Today, we trek from Dzongla to Lobuche. The trail begins with a descent from Dzongla and crosses a bridge before continuing along a grassy path. Enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak, the trail climbs gradually through a ridge. Along the way, you can admire the mountains of Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku and Taboche towering prominently. The trail curves through a wide gravelly riverbed before arriving at Lobuche.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170m) – Everest Base Camp (5,364m) – Gorak Shep – 8–9 Hours
Today, we trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. On the way, we pass the pyramid signpost and catch views of the north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbutse and Mt. Nuptse. A small ascent leads to Thangma Ri from where we enjoy a 360-degree panorama of snowy mountains.
Climbing steeply through the Changri Glacier, we reach Gorak Shep and are surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks including Mt. Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp, crossing the dried-up Gorak Shep Lake. Along the way, we pass the Indian Army mountaineers' memorials. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, we gain a deep appreciation for climbers who brave the hazardous Khumbu Icefall. The mountaineers' tents, in bright colors, stand out against the gray surroundings, especially in spring. From Base Camp, you can view Nuptse, Khumbutse and Pumori, although Everest itself is not visible from this point.
The sunset view from Kala Patthar is considered more spectacular than the sunrise. Trekkers who wish can hike to Kala Patthar today with the help of guides and Sherpas for an unforgettable sunset view. As the sun’s rays hit the snow-capped peaks, the resulting scenery is truly indescribable.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Gorak Shep to Lobuche via Kala Patthar (5,550m) – 6–7 Hours
We start early and climb Kala Patthar, located below the giant Mt. Pumori. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire Everest South Face, Cho La, Cholatse, Nuptse and other surrounding peaks.
After enjoying the views, we descend back to Gorak Shep and continue our trek to Lobuche.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Lobuche Trek to Chukung via Kongma La Pass (4,730m) – 6–7 Hours Walk
After breakfast at the lodge, we begin our trek along the Khumbu Glacier toward the east. After crossing the glacier and a river, the trail climbs up to Kongma La Pass, the highest pass of this trip. There are no tea shops or water sources along the way, so it is important to carry enough water for the climb.
After reaching the top, the trail descends steeply into the Chukung Valley, where the day’s trek ends.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Chukung Trek to Tengboche (3,867m) – 5–6 Hours Walk
Today is an easier day with mostly downhill walking through the valley. The trail descends to Dingboche and continues through several Sherpa villages. After passing Pangboche Village, the trail drops to the river and crosses a bridge. It then climbs gently up to Tengboche, where the oldest monastery in the region is located on top of the hill.
In the evening, you can visit the monastery to witness the Buddhist chanting ceremony.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Tengboche Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – 4–5 Hours Walk
Today, the trek begins with a steep downhill walk through the Rhododendron forest. At the bottom of the hill, we cross a bridge and then climb steeply through pine and juniper forests to Kyangjuma. From Kyangjuma, the trail continues to Namche Bazaar.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Namche Bazaar to Phakding and Lukla (2,800m / 9,184ft) – 16 km, 6–8 Hours Walk
After breakfast, we trek toward the Hillary Suspension Bridge and pass through several local villages along the way. Arrival in Lukla marks the end of your trek, and the evening can be spent at a proper hotel celebrating with your trekking crew. Thanks to teamwork and perseverance, you have accomplished a remarkable physical feat that many only dream of. This is your last night in the mountains, which can be a bittersweet moment.
Overnight stay will be at a guesthouse with breakfast, lunch and dinner included (B/L/D).
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
In the morning, you will take a short flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, where your journey both began and ends. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for some well-deserved rest and reflection after conquering the Himalayas. In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese restaurants in the city and enjoy hearing your feedback about the trip.
Overnight stay will be at a hotel with breakfast included (B/B).
Fly Home – Farewell
Today, you say goodbye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end. We hope you enjoyed the tour with us and are confident that you will return to explore more of the Himalayas in the future. Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Everest View Treks will transfer you to the airport. On your way home, you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Includes/Excludes
- Arrival-Departure from Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Kathmandu Hotel two nights with bed and breakfast plan.
- Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to kathmandu flight tickets for clients & guide only 15 kg luggage allowed.(10 kg big bag and 5 kg hand bag)
- Best available lodge and tea house accommodation during the trek.
- All food ; Breakfast, Lunch and dinner during the trekking.
- Domestic flights and exit taxes.
- A trekking or hiking leader - Fluent English speaking, experienced, knowledgeable with assistant trek guide (4 hikkers:1 assistant guide) and needed Sherpa porters (2 trekkers:1 porter) together with their payments, assurance, gears, foods and accommodations.
- All necessary national park fees, permits and paper works (Sagarmatha national park permits and TIMS)
- Entire administration and local Taxes
- All guide and porter salary and food insurence. Gov taxes.
- Fresh Fruit after dinner everyday
- 1 pc snickers or mars chocolate each person every day
- 3 cup tea, or Coffee with meal B/L/D.
- Trek Completion Certificate
- Complimentary Trekking Kit bag(Return after Trek)
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- Trekking Map
- First Aid Kit
- Nepal Visa fees on your airport arrival (You should bring accurate USD cash and two passport size picture)
- Personal expenses (Shopping, Laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, mineral water or boiled water, Phone calls, hot shower etc)
- Your Lunch and dinners in Kathmandu (This apply also early come back from trek then the fixed itinerary)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu than above itinerary.
- Tips for guides and porters
- Rescue in case emergency.