Everest Three Passes Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, one of our friendly representatives from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will be waiting to warmly welcome you to Nepal. After greeting you and assisting with your luggage, you will be transferred to your hotel, ideally located in the heart of Thamel, Kathmandu’s lively tourist district. This initial day is designed for rest and recovery after your long flight, allowing you to acclimate to the bustling atmosphere of Nepal’s capital city. In the evening, we invite you to join us at our travel office for a meet-and-greet session where we will discuss your trekking itinerary in detail, answer any last-minute questions, and ensure your trekking permits and equipment are in order. The rest of the evening is yours to explore Kathmandu’s vibrant streets, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or simply relax at your hotel.

Traveler’s note: Most hotels in Kathmandu are situated around Thamel, known as a backpacker’s paradise filled with souvenir shops, trekking gear stores, and lively restaurants—perfect for a casual stroll.

After a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s domestic airport for a breathtaking early morning flight to Lukla. The flight, lasting about 40 minutes, offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the rolling foothills of Nepal. Landing at Lukla’s famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport, known for its dramatic runway perched on a mountain ridge, you will meet your trekking team and finalize preparations before setting off. The trek begins with a gentle descent toward the village of Phakding, following the Dudh Khosi River. The trail is peaceful and shaded by towering blue pines and rhododendrons, and you’ll cross suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. Phakding offers a warm guesthouse stay where you’ll enjoy a comforting dinner and rest well, preparing for the days ahead.

Traveler’s note: Flights to Lukla can be delayed by weather, especially in the cold season. It’s advisable to schedule extra days in case of delays.

Following an early breakfast, the trek to Namche Bazaar begins with a mixture of uphill climbs and descents through forests of rhododendron, blue pine, and cedar. You will pass through small villages like Benkar and Monjo, where trekking permits are checked at the Sagarmatha National Park entrance—the official start of Everest territory. As you gain altitude, the views become more dramatic, with snow-capped peaks emerging on the horizon. The last section involves a steep climb up a ridge, rewarding you with a spectacular entrance to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa trading hub perched in a natural amphitheater surrounded by Himalayan giants such as Everest and Ama Dablam. After settling into your guesthouse, take some time to explore the vibrant local market and relax with a hot meal.

Traveler’s note: Namche is a cultural hotspot with excellent bakeries and trekking shops. Charge your cameras—there will be plenty of photo opportunities!

Today is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude while exploring the surrounding area. After breakfast, take a leisurely hike to the nearby village of Khumjung via the scenic Khumjung Ridge. This walk offers some of the best panoramic views of Everest and the neighboring peaks. In Khumjung, visit the famous monastery which houses a purported Yeti skull, and don’t miss the Hillary Statue commemorating the legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary. Explore the Sherpa Museum and the quaint German Bakery back in Namche Bazaar, sampling fresh bread and coffee. This day is both restorative and culturally enriching, giving you a deeper appreciation of the Sherpa way of life. Return to Namche for a cozy dinner and a restful night.

Traveler’s note: Namche is the largest Sherpa settlement in the region, with rich traditions and warm hospitality. The local school and monastery are highlights.

After breakfast, you will set off on a moderate three-hour trek to Tengboche, home to one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in the Khumbu region. The trail winds through pine forests and rhododendron shrubs, offering spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Arriving at Tengboche, you will have the chance to explore the monastery, witness monks in meditation, and learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop make it a special place to rest and reflect. As the day ends, enjoy the incredible sunset views over the Himalayan peaks, painting the sky with warm hues. Overnight accommodation is at the guesthouse near the monastery, surrounded by the serene mountain environment.

Following breakfast, your trek continues through scenic valleys and past yak pastures as you head toward Dingboche. The trail offers magnificent views of towering peaks and deep river valleys, making the journey as inspiring as the destination. You will cross the Imja River to reach the village of Devuche before ascending to Dingboche, nestled in a beautiful alpine valley. This village is known for its stunning natural surroundings and is a great place to observe Himalayan wildlife and local farming practices. The crisp mountain air and tranquil environment provide the perfect setting for rest and acclimatization. Your guesthouse in Dingboche will be warm and welcoming after a day of trekking, where you can enjoy a hearty dinner and prepare for tomorrow’s acclimatization hike.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. After a nourishing breakfast, you have the option to hike for two to three hours to either Dingboche Peak or the nearby Chhukung Valley. Both routes offer exceptional views of Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and other Himalayan giants. The hike is a great way to improve your acclimatization while enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery of the region. The peaceful village of Dingboche provides a warm atmosphere to relax and socialize with fellow trekkers. The day is perfect for photography, journaling, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views before continuing on the more challenging sections of the trek.

After breakfast, you will depart Dingboche and trek through stone-walled fields that showcase traditional farming in this rugged terrain. The trail winds through the Imja Valley, following the river and passing small settlements. This section is less crowded, providing an immersive experience in the high Himalayas. Upon reaching Chhukung, a small village surrounded by towering peaks, you will check into your guesthouse and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Chhukung is a popular base for climbers attempting Island Peak and offers stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. The evening here is calm and serene, perfect for early rest to prepare for the next day’s challenging pass crossing.

After an early breakfast, you will prepare to cross the first major pass of the trek, the Kongma La Pass, which sits at an impressive 5,820 meters. The journey begins with a descent towards the pass itself, marked by cairns and fluttering Buddhist prayer flags, symbolizing good luck and spiritual protection. The climb to the pass involves negotiating a rocky moraine, a thrilling challenge that rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Khumbu region. After crossing Kongma La, you will descend gradually through a rugged landscape, trekking northward along the Khumbu Glacier, an awe-inspiring river of ice that flows down from some of the highest peaks on Earth. This dramatic terrain eventually leads you to Lobuche, a small settlement surrounded by towering mountains, where you’ll relax and refuel with a hearty dinner before resting overnight in a cozy guesthouse, preparing for the next day’s adventures.

Following a nourishing breakfast, your trek continues with a relatively short, but exhilarating hike of about two hours to Gorakshep, a small settlement that serves as the gateway to Everest Base Camp. As you ascend, stunning views of Mt. Everest, Pumori, and other iconic Himalayan peaks will surround you, creating unforgettable memories and photo opportunities. Upon arrival in Gorakshep, you’ll enjoy lunch before embarking on the final leg to Everest Base Camp itself. The trail leads through the dramatic Khumbu Icefall area, where you can witness the ever-shifting ice formations that challenge climbers attempting Everest’s summit. Standing at Everest Base Camp, at 5,364 meters, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering spectacular views and a profound sense of accomplishment. After soaking in the scenery, you will stay overnight at the base camp in a guesthouse, surrounded by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the world’s highest mountains.

You will rise early, around 4 am, for a pre-dawn hike to Kalapathar, which stands at 5,550 meters and offers arguably the best panoramic sunrise views of Mt. Everest and Pumori. The trek to the summit is challenging but immensely rewarding, with the early morning light illuminating the Himalayan giants in spectacular colors. After witnessing the phenomenal sunrise, you will descend back to Gorakshep for breakfast and check-out. Your journey then continues downhill to Dzongla, a peaceful village nestled at 3,830 meters, where you’ll spend the night. The descent offers a chance to reflect on your high-altitude accomplishments while enjoying the changing scenery and flora. Dinner in Dzongla is a comforting end to an intense day, as you prepare for the crossing of the second high pass the following day.

Another early start is essential today as you set out before 5 am to cross the second major pass of your trek: the Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. The climb is steep and demanding, but the breathtaking vistas along the way make every step worthwhile. At the summit, you’ll find cairns and prayer flags where trekkers pause for a well-earned rest and the perfect photo opportunity to capture the surrounding Himalayan panorama. After taking in the views, you will descend toward Thangnang, a quiet village located on the southern side of Mt. Cho-Yu. The trail here leads through rugged terrain and yak pastures, with the towering peaks always visible nearby. Upon arrival in Thangnang, you’ll enjoy a warm dinner and a restful night in the guesthouse.

Traveler’s note: Don’t hesitate to ask your guide for the names of the many mountains visible from the pass — it’s a great way to deepen your connection with the landscape.

Following breakfast, your journey continues with a trek toward Gokyo, a picturesque village famous for its stunning glacial lakes. The trail first takes you across the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier, an impressive natural feature that stretches for miles. Crossing the glacier offers a unique trekking experience through rocky moraines and ice formations. After the glacier, you’ll pass a series of turquoise lakes, collectively known as the Gokyo Lakes, until reaching the third and largest lake, where the village is located. Gokyo is a peaceful settlement nestled amid some of the highest mountains in the region, offering spectacular reflections of Everest, Cho-Oyu, and other giants on its lake surface. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be in a comfortable guesthouse where you can rest and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Traveler’s note: The lakes around Gokyo are among the largest and deepest in Nepal, creating beautiful photo opportunities and a serene environment.

Today begins with an early wake-up call around 4 am to climb Gokyo Ri, a 5,360-meter peak overlooking the village. The climb is moderately challenging but well worth the effort, as the summit offers 360-degree panoramic views of some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and Makalu. From the top, you can enjoy sweeping vistas over the Gokyo Lakes below and the vast Himalayan landscape beyond. After spending time at the summit, you will descend back to Gokyo village for breakfast and a relaxing day of exploring the lake surroundings. The peaceful ambiance and natural beauty of this area provide a perfect setting to unwind. If time permits, an optional walk to Machermo may be arranged to explore more of the valley. Dinner and overnight are spent at the guesthouse in Gokyo.

Traveler’s note: The views from Gokyo Ri are often regarded as some of the best in the Everest region—make sure your camera is ready!

After breakfast, you’ll embark on the final major challenge of the trek: crossing the Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters. This pass offers extraordinary views not only of the Everest region but also the distant Rolwaling range. The climb is demanding but rewarding, with spectacular landscapes unfolding as you ascend and descend the pass. Upon crossing Renjo La, the trail leads you downhill to the village of Lumde, nestled in a beautiful valley. The descent from the pass is refreshing after the climb, with views of lush valleys and traditional Sherpa villages. You’ll be welcomed in Lumde with warm hospitality and a cozy guesthouse where dinner and overnight rest await. This day marks the completion of the three high passes, a significant milestone in your trek.

Today’s journey begins with a pleasant downhill hike from Lumde, easing your legs after the previous challenging days. You will cross a river early in the hike, after which the trail flattens and becomes more leisurely. The path meanders through yak pastures and small traditional villages, offering glimpses of Sherpa life and culture. Thame is a historic Sherpa village known for its rich Buddhist heritage and stunning mountain views. Here, you can explore ancient monasteries and enjoy the warm hospitality of local guesthouses. The slower pace of today allows for cultural immersion and some well-deserved rest before the final days of the trek. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the guesthouse in Thame.

After breakfast, you’ll set off on the gradual descent toward Monjo, retracing some of your earlier steps through the Sagarmatha National Park. The trek passes through forests and valleys with frequent views of Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and even distant glimpses of Mt. Everest. The familiar trail through the park marks the nearing end of your trek, allowing for reflection on the journey. Monjo is a quaint village and serves as the final checkpoint before Lukla. The guesthouse here provides a comfortable place to rest and enjoy a final peaceful night in the mountains, surrounded by natural beauty and the gentle sounds of the forest.

Today you will enjoy your last day of trekking, retracing the scenic trail along the Dudh Khosi River back to Lukla. The familiar path passes through Phakding and other small villages, allowing you to savor every moment in the Everest region. Lukla, bustling with trekkers and local traders, offers a chance to celebrate your achievements and enjoy a well-earned rest. Many groups arrange a farewell party with local Sherpas and guides to commemorate a successful and unforgettable journey. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at a comfortable resort in Lukla, where you can relax and reflect on your incredible adventure.

Traveler’s note: Consider organizing a farewell event with your guide to celebrate with the locals. Also, rest well tonight as the morning flight awaits!

After an early breakfast and check-out, you will be transferred to the Lukla airstrip for your flight back to Kathmandu. The flight offers stunning views as you descend from the high Himalayas to the bustling city below. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will meet you at the domestic airport and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore Kathmandu’s historic sites, or shop for souvenirs. This is a perfect time to unwind and celebrate the successful completion of your trek. Overnight accommodation is provided in your Kathmandu hotel.

Traveler’s note: Kathmandu has many cultural treasures and vibrant markets. Let us know if you want to arrange sightseeing tours.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel with the entire day free to spend as you wish. Whether you want to explore Kathmandu’s ancient temples, visit museums, or simply relax and shop, the choice is yours. In the evening, Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will host a special farewell dinner featuring live Nepali cultural performances. This festive evening allows you to experience traditional music and dance, celebrate your journey with fellow trekkers, and say goodbye to your guides and new friends. It’s the perfect conclusion to your adventure, blending cultural immersion with heartfelt farewells. Overnight stay will be at your Kathmandu hotel.

After your final breakfast in Kathmandu and check-out, a representative from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your scheduled international flight. We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories of the Everest Three Passes Trek, along with a deep appreciation for the majestic Himalayas and warm Nepali hospitality. We wish you a safe journey home and invite you to join us again for your next adventure to Rediscover Nepal.