Everest Three High Pass Trek 17 days

Start-End Location

KTM-KTM

Difficulty

Challenging

Grade: Easy

Suitable for beginners. Gentle walks and low altitudes.

Grade: Moderate

Requires basic fitness. Rolling terrain with steep climbs.

Grade: Strenuous

Demanding. High altitude trails and rough terrain.

Grade: Challenging

Very demanding. High passes and glacial walking.

Transportation

Flight to & from Lukla

Max. Altitude

5,535 m

Trip Duration

17 Days

Meals

Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Highlights of the Trek

Three High Mountain Passes: Cross the three spectacular passes of the Everest region — Kongma La Pass (5,535m), Cho La Pass (5,420m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360m), making this one of Nepal’s most adventurous trekking routes.
Everest Base Camp: Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and experience the incredible atmosphere beneath the world's highest mountain.
Kala Patthar Sunrise View: Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from Kala Patthar (5,545m), one of the best viewpoints for Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri: Explore the beautiful turquoise glacial lakes of Gokyo Valley and hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and other peaks.
Spectacular Himalayan Views: Witness some of the world’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and Nuptse.
Sherpa Culture and Heritage: Experience the unique lifestyle, traditions, monasteries, and warm hospitality of Sherpa communities in Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and remote mountain villages.
Remote Himalayan Landscapes: Trek through peaceful valleys, glaciers, rocky trails, and less crowded routes while experiencing the true wilderness of the Khumbu region.
Tengboche Monastery: Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual centre surrounded by incredible Himalayan scenery.
Scenic Flight to Lukla: Begin and end your adventure with a thrilling mountain flight between Kathmandu and Lukla, offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayas.

Overview

The Everest Three High Pass Trek 17 Days is one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking adventures in Nepal. This incredible circuit takes you beyond the traditional Everest Base Camp route, crossing three high mountain passes — Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m).

The trek combines the best attractions of the Everest region, including Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri, while passing through remote valleys, glaciers, traditional Sherpa villages, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp Trek, this route offers a more adventurous experience with fewer crowds, challenging high-altitude crossings, and unforgettable views of the world’s highest peaks.

With proper acclimatization, good physical preparation, and the support of experienced guides, the Everest Three High Pass Trek provides a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure.

What Makes the Everest Three High Pass TrekTrek Unique?

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is unique because it offers the complete Everest region experience in one challenging journey. Instead of following only the classic Everest Base Camp route, trekkers explore hidden valleys, cross three dramatic mountain passes, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the authentic Sherpa culture.

The combination of high-altitude adventure, breathtaking scenery, and remote Himalayan landscapes makes this trek one of the ultimate trekking experiences in Nepal.

Trek Difficulty

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is considered one of the most demanding trekking routes in Nepal. The trail involves long walking days, steep climbs, glacier crossings, and three passes above 5,000 metres.

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended. Trekkers should have good physical fitness, endurance, and mental preparation to complete this challenging Himalayan adventure.

Best Season for Everest Three High Pass Trek

The best seasons for the Everest Three High Pass Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best. Winter trekking is possible but more challenging due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, while the monsoon season brings rain and slippery trails.

Preparation for Everest Three High Pass Trek

Due to the challenging nature of this trek, proper preparation is essential.

Improve physical fitness with regular hiking, cardio, and strength training.
Prepare for long walking days at high altitude.
Carry proper trekking equipment and warm clothing.
Allow enough time for acclimatization.
Be prepared for changing Himalayan weather conditions.
Follow the guidance of experienced trekking guides.

Why Choose Everest Three High Pass Trek?

Experience three of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.
Explore Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Visit the stunning Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Ri.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the world’s highest mountains.
Experience authentic Sherpa culture and Himalayan traditions.
Trek through remote and less crowded mountain trails.
Challenge yourself with one of Nepal’s most rewarding adventures.

Trek with Ruby Alpine Trails

Choosing Ruby Alpine Trails for your Everest Three High Pass Trek ensures a safe, comfortable, and memorable Himalayan experience.

Our experienced local guides have extensive knowledge of the Everest region and understand the challenges of high-altitude trekking. We carefully design itineraries with proper acclimatization, safety measures, and personalised service.

We provide experienced guides and porters, quality accommodation arrangements, permit assistance, and reliable support throughout your journey. Our commitment is to deliver an authentic trekking experience while supporting local communities and responsible tourism.

Start Your Adventure

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is the ultimate Himalayan adventure for trekkers seeking a challenging and unforgettable experience beyond the classic Everest Base Camp route. Crossing three spectacular high passes — Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La — while exploring Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, and remote Sherpa villages, this trek offers an incredible combination of adventure, culture, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

With proper preparation and the support of our experienced local guides, you can safely explore the remote beauty of the Khumbu region and create lifelong memories in the heart of the Himalayas. If you are ready to challenge yourself and experience one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking adventures, the Everest Three High Pass Trek with Ruby Alpine Trails is the perfect choice.

Included

Domestic flights and drive from Manthali to Lukla and return.Flights to Lukla typically operate from Ramechhap during the peak trekking seasons, which run from April to May and October to November.
Three meals daily (Italian, Chinese, Nepali, Indian, European options)
Accommodation in tea houses as per the itinerary
Kitbag and sleeping bag (for temperatures down to -25°C)
Everest National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permits
Government-licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide
One porter per 2–3 participants
Meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance for guide and porter.
Necessary paperwork, taxes, and government fees.
Certificate of appreciation upon completing the trek.

Excluded

International airfare and Nepal entry visa fees.
Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
Personal gear for extreme temperatures.
Emergency evacuation (covered by travel insurance).
Beverages (soft drinks, alcohol, tea/coffee), water, desserts, hot showers, and laundry.
Tips for guide and porter.
Any costs not listed under "cost included," including delays due to weather, landslides, illness, or other unforeseen events.

Itinerary

Trek Distance8 km

AccommodationPhakding / Tok-Tok

MealsLunch & Dinner

Duration3 to 4 Hours

Drive from your hotel to the domestic airport then mountain flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. During the peak trekking seasons (March–May and September–November), flights may operate from Manthali Airport, requiring an early morning drive from Kathmandu.
After landing, begin an easy downhill trek through traditional Sherpa villages, pine forests, and across suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River before reaching Phakding. The gentle walk allows your body to begin acclimatizing to the increasing altitude.

Trek Distance10–11 km

AccommodationNamche

MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Duration5-6 hours of trek

After breakfast, follow the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful pine forests and cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. Passing through Monjo, you enter Sagarmatha National Park before beginning the final steep climb to Namche Bazaar.
If the weather is clear, you'll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest along the way. Namche Bazaar is the bustling trading hub of the Khumbu region and an important acclimatization stop.

Trek Distance8–9 km

AccommodationNamche

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration4-5 hours round trip

Today is reserved for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. A short hike to the famous Hotel Everest View rewards you with magnificent views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks.
You can also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, local monasteries, or explore Namche Bazaar before returning to your lodge for rest.

trek Distance9-10 km

AccommodationThame

Mealsbreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration5-6 hours

Leaving the main Everest Base Camp trail behind, follow a quieter route towards the traditional Sherpa village of Thame. The trail passes through peaceful forests, prayer flags, chortens, and small settlements while offering beautiful mountain scenery.
Thame is one of the oldest villages in the Khumbu region and is well known for its monastery and famous Sherpa mountaineers.

trek Distance12km

AccommodationLungdeng

Mealsbreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration5-6 hours

Today's trail gradually climbs through remote alpine landscapes towards Lungdeng. Passing yak pastures, stone-built villages, and rugged mountain terrain, the route becomes quieter as you approach the high Himalayas.
Lungdeng is a small mountain settlement where you'll spend the night while preparing for tomorrow's crossing of Renjo La Pass.

Trek Distance12-14 km

AccommodationGokyo

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration9-10 hours

Today is one of the most spectacular days of the trek. An early morning climb leads to Renjo La Pass, where breathtaking panoramic views await, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes below.
After enjoying the views, descend carefully towards the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo Valley, passing dramatic glacial landscapes before reaching Gokyo village.

Trek Distance12 km (round trip)

AccommodationGokyo

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration7-8 hours

Today is dedicated to exploring the spectacular Fifth Gokyo Lake (Ngozumpa Tsho). The trail follows the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, offering incredible views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Nuptse.
After enjoying one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region, return to Gokyo for the night.

Trek Distance8-9km

AccommodationThangnak

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration4-5 hours

Wake early for a sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri, one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region. The summit rewards you with unforgettable panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the emerald Gokyo Lakes.
After descending to Gokyo for breakfast, cross the rugged Ngozumpa Glacier before reaching the small settlement of Thangnak, where you'll prepare for the challenging Cho La Pass crossing.

Trek Distance12-14km

AccommodationZhongla

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration8-9 hours

Today is one of the most demanding days of the trek. An early morning ascent leads to the spectacular Cho La Pass, where you'll cross rocky terrain and, depending on the season, snow and ice.
From the top, enjoy magnificent views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and surrounding Himalayan peaks before descending carefully to Zhongla, a peaceful village nestled beneath towering mountains.

Trek Distance7-8 km

AccommodationLobuche

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration4-5 hours

After breakfast, continue along a gradual trail through rocky moraines and glacial landscapes towards Lobuche. The route offers impressive views of Nuptse, Pumori, Lobuche Peak, and the Khumbu Glacier. As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
Lobuche is an important overnight stop before reaching Everest Base Camp, allowing additional acclimatization at high altitude.

Trek distance12 km

AccommodationGorak Shep

MealsBreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration7-8 hours

Today's journey follows the rugged trail to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest and lunch, continue across rocky glacial terrain to the legendary Everest Base Camp.
Standing at the foot of the world's highest mountain is an unforgettable experience. During the climbing season, colourful expedition tents create an exciting atmosphere beneath the Khumbu Icefall. After exploring the base camp, return to Gorak Shep for the night.

trek distance9-10 km

AccommodationLobuche

Mealsbreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration6-7 hours

Wake early for a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar, the highest viewpoint of the trek. The summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and the surrounding Himalayan giants.
After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, retrace the trail back to Lobuche through the spectacular Khumbu Glacier valley.

trek distance12-13 km

AccommodationChhukung

Mealsbreakfast,Lunch & Dinner

Duration9-10 hours

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek as you cross Kongma La Pass, the highest of the three Everest passes. The steep ascent leads to incredible panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Cholatse, and surrounding glaciers.
After enjoying the spectacular scenery, descend through rugged alpine terrain to the peaceful village of Chhukung.

trek distance15-16 km

AccommodationTengboche

Mealsbreakfast,lunch & Dinner

Duration7-8 hours

Leaving the Imja Valley, descend through Dingboche and Pangboche while enjoying magnificent views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest. The trail passes traditional Sherpa villages, alpine meadows, and colourful rhododendron forests before reaching Tengboche.
Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual centre of the Khumbu region, surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery.

trek distance10-11 km

AccommodationNamche Bazaar

Mealsbreakfast, lunch & dinner

Duration5-6 hours

After breakfast, descend through beautiful forests of rhododendron and pine to the Dudh Koshi River. Cross suspension bridges and pass through Phunki Tenga before climbing gently back to Namche Bazaar.
Enjoy your final evening in the lively Sherpa town, where you can relax, explore local cafés, and celebrate completing the Three High Passes Trek.

trek distance18 km

AccommodationLukla

MealsBreakfast ,lunch & dinner

Duration7-8 hours

Today is the final day of trekking as you descend through Monjo, Phakding, and several traditional Sherpa villages before making the final gradual climb back to Lukla.
Enjoy your last walk through the beautiful Khumbu Valley while crossing suspension bridges and following the Dudh Koshi River. Upon arrival in Lukla, celebrate the successful completion of your Everest Three High Pass Trek with your trekking crew.

Mealsbreakfast

After breakfast, board an early morning flight from Lukla, enjoying one final aerial view of the spectacular Himalayan mountains. During the peak trekking seasons (March–May and September–November), flights may operate to Manthali Airport before continuing by road to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel or the international airport according to your travel schedule, marking the end of your unforgettable Everest Three High Pass Trek with lasting memories of Nepal's highest mountains.

Availability

No upcoming departures are currently scheduled. Please contact us to arrange a custom date.

Essential Trip Information

Accommodations

During the 17-day trek, you'll stay in carefully selected lodges providing the best comfort in the Everest region. Enjoy a variety of teahouses and lodges offering basic but comfortable facilities throughout the trek. Rooms typically feature twin-sharing beds with warm blankets. Hot showers and charging points are available at most stops, though they come with an additional fee in higher altitude. To secure the best accommodations, early bookings during peak seasons are recommended.
Internet Services

Most teahouses along the Everest region offer Wi-Fi, with Everest Link prepaid internet cards available for purchase. While the connection is generally suitable for basic communication, it can be slow and unreliable at higher altitudes. Buying an NTC (Nepal Telecom) SIM card before your trek is another good option, as it provides mobile data coverage in many parts of the Everest region. However, keep in mind that even NTC service does not work in some remote areas and high mountain passes, so occasional loss of signal is normal.
Food on the Everest three high passes trek

Meals on the Everest Three High Passes Trek are simple, nutritious, and designed to provide the energy needed for long trekking days. Breakfast usually includes porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, pancakes, or toast with tea or coffee. Lunch and dinner commonly feature Dal Bhat, fried rice, noodles, momos, soups, and other hearty local dishes. Snacks such as boiled potatoes, chapati, chocolates, and energy bars are available at most teahouses. Hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot lemon with ginger and honey are widely served, while boiled or filtered drinking water is available. At higher altitudes, vegetarian meals are recommended as they are generally fresher and easier to digest. Staying well hydrated and carrying a few extra energy snacks will help you stay comfortable throughout the trek.

Packing Essentials

Clothing
- Quick-dry trekking shirts: 4–5
- Thermal base layer (top & bottom): 2-3sets
- Fleece jacket: 1
- Down jacket: 1 (provided if required)
- Waterproof shell jacket: 1
- Waterproof pants: 1
- Trekking pants: 2-4
- Warm fleece pants (optional): 1
- Underwear: 6–8 pairs
- Sports socks: 5–6 pairs
- Heavy wool socks: 2–3 pairs
- Light gloves: 1-2 pair
- Insulated waterproof gloves: 1 pair
- Sun hat: 1
- Warm beanie: 1
- Buff/neck gaiter: 1–2
Footwear
- Waterproof Trekking Boots: 1 pair (well broken-in)
- Camp Shoes or Sandals: 1 pair
- Gaiters : 1 pair
- Trekking Socks: 4–5 pairs
- Warm Wool Socks: 2-4 pairs
Backpack & Bags
- Day Backpack (30–40L): 1
- Duffel Bag: 1 (provided if using our porter service)
- Rain Cover: 1
Trekking Gear
- Trekking Poles: 1 pair
- Headlamp: 1 (plus spare batteries)
- Sleeping Bag (-25°C): (Provided if you don't have your own)
- Micro Crampons: (Provided when required for icy trail conditions)
- Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder: 2 litres total capacity
- Water Purification Tablets or Filter
- Thermal Flask (Optional): 1
Personal Items
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- SPF Lip Balm
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Biodegradable Soap
- Quick-dry Towel
- Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitiser
- Personal Medications
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Passport & Passport Copy
- Travel Insurance
- Cash (Nepalese Rupees)
Electronics
- Camera or Smartphone
- Power Bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
- Charging Cable & Nepal Plug Adapter
- Spare Camera Batteries (Optional)
Snacks
- Energy Bars (6–10)
- Chocolates
- Mixed Nuts & Dried Fruits
- Electrolyte Powder (4–6 sachets)

Frequently Asked Questions

The Three Passes Trek is considered a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. It involves long days of hiking, steep ascents and descents, and the need to cross high mountain passes, above 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). Altitude sickness is a concern, so proper acclimatization is crucial.

The Three Passes Trek typically takes about 17 to 19 days, depending on the pace, weather, and time spent at each location for acclimatization. This includes rest days to help adjust to the altitude and to explore key areas like Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp.

The Three Passes Trek is a high-altitude trek in the Everest region of Nepal that crosses three major mountain passes: Kongma La (5,535 meters / 18,159 feet) Cho La (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet) Renjo La (5,388 meters / 17,677 feet) This trek offers stunning views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other peaks, while passing through remote Sherpa villages and serene lakes like Gokyo Lakes.

The highest point of the Three Passes Trek is Kongma La at 5,535 meters (18,159 feet), but trekkers will cross other high passes and reach altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) multiple times, making it a physically demanding trek that requires proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

No. of Pax Price per Pax

1 Pax USD $1,650

2 Pax USD $1,550

3–4 Pax USD $1,530

5–6 Pax USD $1,510

No. of Pax

Price per person —

No. of travelers 1

Total Price —

Clients Review

Ruby Alpine Trails Pvt.Ltd

5.0

Based on 8 reviews

review us on

Prem Tamang

1 month ago

Haowen C

2 months ago

Extremely great experience with yakub! 3rd time with him in nepal, doing ABC, Lang Tang (Yala Peak) and Manaslu Circuit. Highly recommend!

Amol Tamang

2 months ago

Jonathan Then

2 months ago

Had the best experience during our Manaslu Circuit Trek in early April 2026 with the most experience guide Yakub!

Jacob Koh

2 months ago

Yakub is the best guide u will get in Nepal. I trust my life with him. He brings the best crew u can get and the crew makes so much difference to ur hike!!!

Ber

2 months ago

Amazing experience with Yakub and his team! Did a couple of hikes with him, including Manaslu Circuit and Langtang valley! Highly recommend

Evan Dutton

2 months ago

I completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek in 2019 with Yakub Ghale, whom I met through a different trekking company at that time. It was truly an unforgettable experience in Nepal. Huge thanks to Yakub for his excellent guidance, deep local knowledge, and constant support throughout the journey. He was professional, friendly, and always focused on our safety and comfort.

Recently, I saw his company, Ruby Alpine Trails, shared on social media, and I couldn’t stop myself from writing this review. After experiencing his guiding service personally, I can confidently say he has now built a strong and trustworthy trekking company.

I highly recommend Ruby Alpine Trails to anyone planning to visit or trek in Nepal. With his passion, expertise, and dedication, I am sure he and his team will organize an exceptional and memorable journey for every traveler.

Thank you, Yakub, for making this adventure so special!