Everest Three Passes Trek

Overview

 

“The mountains are calling, and I must go.”

– John Muir

 

Everest Three Passes Trek is the quintessential Himalayan adventure, pushing trekkers past Everest Base Camp to Nepal’s remotest and most beautiful scenery. Through three high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—you’ll trek on glaciers, turquoise lakes, and hidden Sherpa valleys. This trek offers the ultimate Everest experience with maximum exposure to Everest, revealing unrivaled mountain scenery and extensive Sherpa heritage exposure. If you are craving a trek that pushes, motivates, and rejuvenates you, this one is for you. The Three Passes Trek is not a trek—it’s a legend unfolding.

 

 

 

Attractions – The Wonders along the Everest Three Passes Trek

 

💠 Everest Base Camp (5,364m)

The world’s most iconic trekking destination, where mountaineers prepare to conquer Everest.

 

💠 Kongma La Pass (5,535m)

The highest and most challenging pass, rewarding trekkers with views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

 

💠 Cho La Pass (5,420m)

A thrilling glacial crossing, where ice and sky merge into an unforgettable Himalayan dreamscape.

 

💠 Renjo La Pass (5,360m)

A jaw-dropping panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, and the emerald Gokyo Lakes.

 

💠 Gokyo Lakes (4,790m – 5,000m)

Nepal’s highest freshwater lake system, shimmering in surreal shades of turquoise.

 

💠 Kala Patthar (5,545m)

The best Everest viewpoint, offering a legendary sunrise over the highest peaks on Earth.

 

💠 Namche Bazaar (3,440m)

The vibrant Sherpa capital, filled with markets, bakeries, and adventure seekers.

 

💠 Tengboche Monastery (3,867m)

A spiritual sanctuary framed by the mighty Ama Dablam.

 

💠 Ngozumpa Glacier

The longest glacier in Nepal, stretching like a frozen river through the Himalayas.

 

💠 Thame Village (3,800m)

Birthplace of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, Everest’s first summiteer, and a hidden gem of Sherpa heritage.

 

 

 

Accessibility

 

The Everest Three Passes Trek starts in Lukla (2,860m), far into the Khumbu. The trip to Lukla is an adventure in itself, with flights or overland travel via twisting Himalayan roads. Travelers must be ready for conditions that vary, as the location is far out and hard to reach. For those who take the challenge, though, reward awaits in terms of landscapes that are untouched by time and culture with mountainous traditions galore. By plane or by land, the journey to Lukla is the start of one of Nepal’s greatest trekking excursions.

 

 

𖥟  By Road

For those who would rather have an alternative to flying, an overland journey to Phaplu (2,413m), followed by a trek to Lukla, is a gradual acclimatization process. The 8-10 hour road journey from Kathmandu to Phaplu is on bumpy mountain roads. The trek from Phaplu to Lukla takes 2-3 days, going through remote Sherpa villages, green forests, and scenic rivers. It is the best option for trekkers who wish to be fully involved in the process, as opposed to rushing into high altitudes.

 

 

 

Accommodation in Everest Three Passes Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek exposes you to some of Nepal’s most remote and stunning landscapes, with accommodations varying from high-end hotels in Kathmandu to humble but welcoming teahouses along the trail. Although the services thin out as you ascend higher, Sherpa courtesy means that every halt is one to remember.

 

 

𖥟  Accommodation in Kathmandu

Before and after your hike, Kathmandu has a range of hotels to accommodate different comfort requirements. We arrange for you to stay in 3-star or 4-star hotels so that you can rest well before setting out on your adventure.

 

What to Expect in Kathmandu:

Clean rooms with en-suite bathrooms and hot showers

24-hour electricity supply, Wi-Fi, and room service

Restaurants serving Nepali, Indian, and Western cuisine

Laundry and luggage storage area for extra convenience

Airport transfers and trek briefings for a seamless experience

 

 

𖥟 Teahouses & Lodges Along the Trail

The trek’s remoteness means that accommodations are plain but sufficient. Teahouses—small, family-run lodges—are the backbone of Everest trekking, providing a cozy place to rest, hearty meals, and a taste of Sherpa culture.

 

 What to Expect in Teahouses:

Twin-share wooden cabins with basic bedding and blankets

Shared dining rooms with wood-burning stoves for warmth

Toilets may be shared (some have squat-style toilets)

Hot showers available for a small fee (solar-heated in most areas)

Limited Wi-Fi and charging points (generally available for a small fee)

 

 

 

Amenities

 

✻ Food & Water

Trekkers are offered healthy, locally cooked food to keep energy levels high at high altitudes. Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, dumplings, and yak cheese are common, offering a balanced diet. Freshly cooked food at teahouses ensures hygiene and snacks like energy bars and soups offer sustained energy. Purified water is available at lodges, but purification tablets or a portable filter are recommended. Bottled water is not available due to environmental concerns, and trekkers have to replenish from filtered or boiled supplies. Proper nutrition and hydration are key to enduring the challenging Everest Three Passes trek.

 

 

✻ Electricity & Charging Facilities

Electricity is available in teahouses along the route but is mostly solar and limited at higher altitudes. Charging phones, cameras, and power banks costs a minimal fee. Weather conditions could affect electricity supply, and hence trekkers should carry portable solar chargers or spare batteries. Charging points are found in a few teahouses in shared areas but with limited usage time. Power banks with multiple charges ensure the required devices continue to function for navigation and photography. The trek provides a chance to unplug and experience the pure beauty of the Himalayas.

 

 

✻ Mobile Network & Internet Connectivity

Cell phone coverage on the Everest Three Passes Trek is patchy and limited. At Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, trekkers can get a 3G or 4G signal, but beyond these villages, the signal disappears. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi for an additional fee, which is slow and unreliable. Satellite phones are recommended for emergency use. Hiking in remote areas is all about a digital detox, so tourists can become immersed in nature and Sherpa culture. Offline maps have to be downloaded before navigation, so hikers are always in the right direction even when the internet is not available.

 

 

✻ Health & Medical Facilities

There are limited health posts and clinics in the major villages of Namche and Pheriche, but away from these towns, medical facilities are scarce. Trekkers must carry an individual first-aid kit that includes medication for altitude sickness, painkillers, and dressings. Drinking plenty of fluids, gradual acclimatization, and good sleep prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS). Serious illness or injury can be evacuated by helicopter, but only based on comprehensive travel insurance. Guides monitor trekkers’ health on the trek for safety and any alteration to the itinerary.

 

 

✻ Banking & Payment Facilities

Trekkers must carry enough cash in Nepali Rupees (NPR) because ATMs are limited to Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar, and their functionality is uncertain. The lodges, teahouses, and local shops along the trail do not take credit cards or electronic payment, so there needs to be planning with cash. Costs increase with altitude, and more money may need to be budgeted for charging batteries, internet, snacks, or extra equipment rentals. It is advisable to draw a sufficient amount of money in Kathmandu or Lukla to cover all expenses while trekking, for easy transactions on the way.

 

 

✻ Toilets & Sanitation

Toilet facilities during the trek are sparse but good enough. Lower-altitude teahouses provide Western-style toilets, and the higher camps have predominantly squat toilets. There are fewer facilities in the remote areas, and some of the trekkers prefer to bring wet wipes and biodegradable toilet paper along. There are hot showers below lower altitudes for a minimal fee but run out with increased altitude. Hot water bucket showers are available in some teahouses. The trekkers should be in good hygiene by using hand sanitizer and soap so that they avoid infections and stay healthy in rough conditions.

 

 

✻ Safety & Trekking Support

Our expert guides and porters ensure the safety of trekkers by providing navigation, altitude checking for illness, and emergency assistance. Guides carry first-aid kits, assist with acclimatization, and adjust pace as required. Trekking at high altitude is risky, but adhering to proper acclimatization timetables and maintaining hydration reduces complications. For severe conditions, helicopter evacuations are available under mandatory travel insurance. The trails, although rough, are well-signposted, and with our professional staff, trekkers have a secure but exhilarating experience in the world’s most stunning scenery.

 

 

 

Echoes of the Local – The Guardian of the Passes

Long ago in the Khumbu Valley, years before trekkers walked these trails, there was an elderly Sherpa named Tashi Norbu known as “The Guardian of the Passes.” He lived alone, remotely high above Gokyo, where the winds droned through prayer flags, and the mountains whispered secrets only the fearless could hear. One winter, a lone visitor had fallen in a snowstorm close to Renjo La. Tashi found him, took him back to his stone hut, and nursed him on yak butter tea and campfire stories of Everest legends.

 

Years after, the traveler returned—not to hike, but to thank the man who saved him. He searched all the valleys, all the monasteries, but Tashi was nowhere to be found—his hut empty, the fire gone cold. But on the summit of Renjo La, there was one single scarf fluttering in the breeze—the same scarf that Tashi used to wear.

 

Others claim he was a mountain spirit, always watching over those who ventured across.

 

 

 

Inclusion and Exclusion

 

Inclusions & Services Provided

☑       Full-Board Meals – Enjoy wholesome and energy-dense meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) daily, specially designed for high-altitude trekking.

☑       Daily Beverages – Stay hydrated with four rounds of tea or coffee daily, including morning, mid-day, afternoon (with light snacks), and evening.

☑       Evening Treats – Fresh seasonal fruits served post-dinner for a healthy and satisfying end to your meals.

☑       Comfortable Accommodation – Stay in comfortable, well-maintained teahouses along the trail, offering warmth, hospitality, and stunning mountain views.

☑       Professional Trekking Support – Hike with a licensed, insured, and experienced guide, along with porter support (1 porter between 2 trekkers) for a seamless and enjoyable trek.

☑       Effortless Transfers & Permits – Private vehicle transfers and all trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Rural Municipality) arranged for your convenience.

☑       Safety & Health Monitoring – Daily oxygen level and heart rate monitoring, first-aid kit, and helicopter arrangement in an emergency (insurance paid) for your safety.

☑       All-Inclusive Pricing – Govt. taxes, service charges, and an assistant guide for a group of 5+ trekkers for a hassle-free experience.

☑       Lifetime Deposit Policy: Secure your spot with a lifetime deposit, allowing you to postpone or reschedule your trek without losing your booking deposit

☑       Free Booking: Secure your trek without any initial payment, allowing you to organize and finalize your trip at your convenience—no risk, no pressure.

 

 

 

Exclusions: What’s Not Included

☒       Pre-Trek Arrangements – Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek are not included.

☒       Visa & Entry Fees – Nepal entry visa fees must be arranged separately ($50 for a 30-day visa, payable on arrival).

☒       Insurance – Travel, trekking, and medical insurance are mandatory for safety and emergency evacuation coverage.

☒       Travel Costs – International airfare to and from Nepal is not included in the package.

☒       Beverages & Personal Expenses – Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and other personal expenses are at the trekker’s discretion.

☒       Teahouse Amenities – Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging at teahouses are available at an extra cost.

☒       Gratuities – Tips for guides, porters, and drivers are not included but are customary and highly appreciated.

We cover all the essential aspects of your trek so you can focus entirely on the adventure. These exclusions ensure transparency, allowing you to plan accordingly for a smooth and well-prepared experience in the Himalayas.

 

 

Permits & Regulations for the Everest Three Passes Trek

 

Permits required to embark on the Everest Three Passes trek, you need two essential permits:

 

✔  Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

This permit allows you to enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and contributes to conservation efforts.

 

✔  Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

This replaces the TIMS card and aids in supporting local infrastructure and tourism management.

Permit Charges Sagarmatha National Park Permit

🔸 USD 30 per person

 

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

🔸 USD 20 per person Please note that permit fees may vary based on government regulations.

 

 

Where to Get Permits

🔸 You can obtain the Sagarmatha National Park Permit at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the Monjo Checkpoint.

🔸 For the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, you can get it at Lukla or Monjo.

All the permits and other operational procedures are managed by our team of professionals for your hassle-free adventure toward the Himalayas.

 

 

 

Essential Advice for Trekkers

 

⦿ Acclimatize Properly

Ensure you take time to acclimatize to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness. Stick to the principle of “climb high, sleep low.”

 

⦿ Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the trek. Dehydration can significantly affect your performance and overall well-being at high altitudes.

 

⦿ Pack Light, But Smart

Only carry the essentials. Prioritize warm clothing, a reliable pair of hiking boots, and a good-quality sleeping bag for higher altitudes.

 

⦿ Physical Preparation       

Focus on cardiovascular and strength training exercises to build stamina. Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate trek conditions.

 

⦿ Mind Your Footwear

Invest in high-quality, comfortable hiking boots. Well-fitted boots are essential for tackling the rugged terrain.

 

⦿ Embrace Local Culture

Respect local traditions and customs. Positively engage with the local community and learn about their culture for a richer experience.

 

⦿ Be Prepared for the Weather

Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Always bring layered clothing and be prepared for sudden temperature changes.

 

⦿ Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Help preserve the environment by minimizing your impact on nature. Respect wildlife and dispose of trash responsibly.

 

⦿ Listen to Your Body

If you feel unwell or fatigued, don’t push yourself. Rest and adjust your schedule if necessary. Remember, safety comes first.

 

⦿ Travel with a Licensed Guide

For safety and smoother navigation, hire an experienced, licensed trekking guide who knows the route and the terrain well.

 

 

 

Why Himalayan Explore Line?

 

🔶 Safety & Expert Guidance

Led by government-licensed guides with first-aid and crisis-management expertise.

Daily oxygen-level and altitude safety health check-ups.

Emergency response and evacuation protocols always ready.

 

🔶 Smooth Logistics

Essential permits and private transfers arranged in advance.

Pre-booked lodges/teahouses with verified hygiene and comfort.

Gear rentals and porter services streamlined for convenience.

 

🔶 Cultural & Scenic Sophistication

Immerse in Himalayan villages, ancient monasteries, and local traditions.

Trails showcasing iconic peaks, pristine valleys, and biodiverse forests.

Cultural interactions, from tea ceremonies to folklore storytelling.

 

🔶 Luxury Nutrition

Energy-providing nutritious meals at high altitudes.

Vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-free meal choices.

Tea/coffee break daily with local sweets.

 

🔶 Clear Pricing

Unambiguous packages without additional charges.

Ethical operation: fair labor practices, sustainable operations.

Inquiries and modifications available 24/7.

 

 

Our Commitment

We deliver secure, culturally enhancing Himalayan journeys with meticulous logistics, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience.

 

 

 

Terms and Condition

 

Reservation and Payment

To confirm your booking, a 30% non-refundable deposit is required. The remaining balance can be paid before your trip. We recommend confirming your reservation before arriving in Nepal to help us plan your journey smoothly.

Payments can be made via digital wallet, credit card, or bank transfer (processing fees may apply). A 4% surcharge applies to all card payments, including deposits and other transactions. Bookings are only confirmed once you receive a Client Confirmation Letter from us. To receive this, you must complete the booking form with accurate details such as your name, contact info, and travel dates.

 

 

Policy on Cancellations and Refunds 

 

By Client:

• More than 2 months before departure: 80% refund

• 2 months to 29 days before: 70% refund

• Less than 15 days before: 50% refund

• Less than 7 days before: 50% credited toward a future trip (non-refundable if unused)

We strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance at booking. No refunds will be issued if you cancel after the trip has started, including for unused services like accommodation, transport, meals, or activities.

 

 

By Company:

If Himalayan Explore Line must cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances—such as natural disasters, flight cancellations, strikes, civil unrest, illness, quarantine, government restrictions, or severe weather—you will be offered an alternative trip of equal value and features, agreed upon mutually.

Please note that major changes do not include adjustments to airline carriers, flight schedules, or itineraries, provided the departure and return dates remain unchanged. Similarly, changes to hotel accommodations are not considered major as long as they are within the same category.

 

 

Itinerary Changes:

Weather in high-altitude areas is unpredictable, and domestic flight delays at the start or end of the trip may lead to itinerary changes. Flexibility is essential, as local conditions can affect plans, accommodations, or transport on short notice.

Clients are responsible for any extra costs caused by delays, natural disasters, or if alternative arrangements (e.g., helicopter flights) are chosen. These changes are binding, and any additional expenses beyond our control will be the client’s responsibility.

 

 

Insurance:

Himalayan Explore Line does not provide travel insurance. Clients must secure insurance covering high-altitude emergencies, medical costs (including pre-existing conditions), repatriation, trip delays, cancellations, and personal liability. Proof of insurance is mandatory. The company reserves the right to cancel your participation without a refund if valid insurance cannot be provided upon request.

 

 

Acceptance of Terms:

By booking with Himalayan Explore Line, you agree to the terms and conditions, including any updates. It is your responsibility to stay informed and comply with any changes.