High Pass Trek

Everest Base Camp in Khumjung, Nepal ...

🏔️ Trek Overview

Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, the Three Passes route forms a loop that connects the four major valleys of the Khumbu: Imja, Khumbu, Gokyo, and Thame. This route not only includes iconic highlights like EBC and Kala Patthar but also ventures into less-traveled areas, offering solitude and a deeper connection with the landscape.

Trekkers can choose to complete the loop clockwise or counterclockwise. The counterclockwise direction is often preferred as it allows for a more gradual ascent, aiding in acclimatization.

🌤️ Best Seasons to Trek

The optimal times for the Everest Three Passes Trek

Spring (March to May): Characterized by stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views.
Autumn (September to November): Known for crisp air, clear skies, and vibrant festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is generally discouraged due to heavy rains and potential landslides. Winter (December to February) brings extreme cold and snow, making high passes potentially impassable.

🧾 Permits Required

Trekkers must obtain the following permits:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Approximately $30 USD.
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): Approximately $10 USD.

These permits can be arranged through trekking agencies or obtained in Kathmandu and Monjo.

🧗 Difficulty Level

The Everest Three Passes Trek is rated as strenuous due to its high altitudes, challenging terrain, and long duration. Trekkers should be prepared for steep ascents and descents, potential altitude sickness, and varying weather conditions. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended.

🏋️ Preparation Tips

Physical Training:

Engage in cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, and swimming, along with strength training focusing on legs and core, at least 2–3 months prior to the trek.

Altitude Acclimatization:

Incorporate hikes to higher elevations during training to simulate trekking conditions.

Mental Preparation:

Familiarize yourself with the trek’s challenges and practice mindfulness or meditation to build mental resilience.

Gear Checklist:

Essential items include thermal clothing, trekking poles, a four-season sleeping bag, water purification tablets, and a first-aid kit.

🏠 Accommodation & Meals

Throughout the trek, accommodation is provided in teahouses, offering basic amenities such as twin-sharing rooms and communal dining areas. Meals typically include local dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, and soups. While facilities are basic, they offer a warm and communal atmosphere.

Transportation

On this Everest Three Pass Trek, all transportation expenditures are comprising our package. On the first day, we will transfer you to your accommodation by our private automobile. And on the second day, we will tour the Kathmandu Valley with our private vehicle.

We will be flying by plane from Kathmandu City to Lukla or vice versa. For majority of the 17 days of this journey, we will be walking on foot to reach our stops. On the last day, we will come to your hotel pick you up, and drive you to the airport.

Insurance

Also, do not forget to get travel insurance before starting the Everest High Pass Trek because the hazards of high-altitude trekking will be covered by the insurance. In case of a very serious emergency such as serious illness or injury, we may have to transport you to the nearest hospital using a helicopter.

Each evacuation or rescue will be your financial obligation; thus, please ensure that your insurance coverage covers these charges. So, look for a great insurance company that has the best deals around.

What to expect from this trip

You get to cross three main passes (Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La, the highest at 5,535 meters), and trekking at high altitudes undergoes a challenge that you will face during the 22-day Everest Three Pass Trek.

From every pass, you will be treated to spine-tinglingsights of the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest and other peaks. Monasteries with prayer flags and turning wheels are available for the different cultural experiences. Enjoy a close-up of nature and the local people’s culture while spending time in the nearby towns.

Along the way, you will climb Kala Patthar, which offers breathtaking views of the Khumbu, and reach Everest Base Camp (EBC). We have to pass Kongma La Pass and ascend to Dingboche, which makes it challenging. The trek path also passes via the excellent Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Lakes, and Gokyo Ri.

We promise that your 20-day Everest Three Pass trek will be an adventure of a lifetime, full with thrilling moments and incredible, life-changing memories that will brighten your day every time you think back on these days.