Everest Three High Passes Trek – 20 Days
Into the Khumbu: A Journey to Everest Base Camp and three High Passes
This is a high-altitude odyssey that begins the moment the plane drops onto Lukla’s short runway and only builds from there. You’ll step off into a world of rushing rivers and suspension bridges, crossing the Tharo Kosi and Dudh Kosi as the trail climbs through Phakding toward Namche Bazaar, your first true taste of Khumbu life. From Namche you’ll already be scanning the skyline for Ama Dablam’s elegant spire, Thamserku’s serrated ridges, and the distant bulk of Kusum Kanguru.
From Namche the route pushes into quieter, tougher country, hikes to Thame and Lungden offer narrow trails, yak pastures, mani walls, and the steady, unhurried rhythm of Sherpa villages. Then comes Renjo La, a long, exposed pass that opens onto the turquoise Gokyo lakes and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, before a pre-dawn climb to Gokyo Ri and a glacier crossing to Thaknak. On clear days the Renjo La and Gokyo viewpoints present Mts. Everest and Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Cholatse, and Kangtega.
The toughest, most technical section follows: the eastern approach to Cho La, a glacier traverse and steep climb that demands concentration and grit, then a dramatic descent to Dzongla and on to Lobuche. From there you cross the Changri Shar moraine to Gorak Shep, prepare, and push for Everest Base Camp- an unforgettable, humbling place where the Khumbu Icefall and the highest peaks surround you. Before nightfall you descend back to Gorak Shep to rest, then rise again for Kala Patthar’s sunrise panorama that sets Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and dozens of spires alight, with Pumori, Lingtren and Changtse clearly etched on the horizon.
Then, over the next few days, its onto Kangla Pass, and a gradual descent to Tengboche. Here, you’ll re-enter lower forests and Sherpa culture in Namche. The final day to Lukla brings celebrations, then an early flight to Ramechhap, onto Kathmandu and a farewell dinner that closes this fierce, life-affirming journey.
This trek asks everything of you- endurance, focus, humility, and in return delivers raw mountain grandeur, Sherpa cultural encounters, and a sense of achievement few journeys can match.
Trek Cost Details (2025 & 2026)
Everest and Three High Passes
Group Size – Cost PP (USD)
1 –
2-3 –
4-5 –
6-7 –
8-10 –
11+ –
$2,581
$1,857
$1,669
$1,607
$1,468
Contact Us
Notes
• We do not merge travellers into mixed groups — your trek is private and personalised.
• Need a trek to fit your budget? Contact us — we’re happy to help tailor your experience.
Highlights
- A thrilling high-altitude flight to Lukla.
- Bustling Namche Baazar, the captail of the Khumbu, with amazing views of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam.
- Sherpa culture, mani walls, prayer flags, Tengboche Monastery, and village life in Thame, Pangboche, and others.
- A visit to Tengboche Monastery.
- Renjo La Pass and Gokyo Lakes, long exposed pass with turquoise high-altitude lakes and sweeping views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse.
- Gokyo Ri sunrise, an iconic viewpoint over the Gokyo lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, and a skyline of major 8,000m peaks.
- Cho La Pass traverse, a technical, glacier-steep crossing that tests concentration and rewards with raw alpine scenery.
- Everest Base Camp, the emotional high point: the Khumbu Icefall, the hub of expedition life, and close company with Everest’s massif.
- Kala Patthar sunrise, pre-dawn climb with a panoramic, colour-filled sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and many spires.
- Glacial landscapes, walking across Ngozumpa and Changri Shar moraines, with dramatic crevasses, seracs and high‑altitude vistas.
- Wildlife and high alpine environment, chances to see Himalayan birds, yak pastures and changing vegetation zones from forest to barren moraine.
- Descent through classic Khumbu villages, a return through Tengboche, Pangboche and Pheriche, reconnecting with Sherpa hospitality and warm lodges.
Itinerary
Arrival & Preparation:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1355m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport our staff will greet you and escort you to your 3* hotel in Kathmandu. Depending upon your arrival time you may spend free time visiting nearby cultural sites, shopping or simply resting at the hotel. Overnight 3★ Hotel. Driving 1 hour.
Day 2: Trek preparations in Kathmandu
Today we’ll finalise your trek preparations and complete the necessary permits. You’ll have the day to rest and adjust to Kathmandu’s time zone. You can explore the city’s cultural sites, browse local shops, or take care of any last-minute gear needs. In the early evening, you’ll meet your guide for a detailed trek briefing. Overnight 3★ hotel.
Into the Khumbu Region:
Day 3: Kathmandu to Phakding (2610m)
Early morning you will be picked up by your guide and drive to Ramechhap domestic airport, from where you will take the 20 minute flight to Lukla, (the Lukla flights depart from Ramechhap during peak season and Kathmandu during the off-season). Once at Lukla we will meet with the rest of our team and head to Pakding. Firstly, we will cross the Tharo Kosi river on a local-style suspension bridge. Beyond the Tharo Kosi the trail climbs towards Ghat (2590m), we will cross a bridge over the Dudh Kosi river to our overnight lodge in Phakding. Prayer flags and small chorten along the way offer glimpses of the region’s Buddhist heritage. Overnight Tea House. Driving 5-6 hours. Flying 20 minutes. Trekking 3 -4 hours.
Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m).
From Phakding we follow the valley of the Dudh Kosi river, crossing the river a total of five times on suspension bridges. We climb steeply over a rocky ridge towards Benkar (2630m), where we have views of Mt. Thamseku (6,623m). Just beyond Manju village, the trek enters the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. Beyond the national park entrance, the trail makes a steep rocky descent towards Jorsale (2830m), which is the last village before Namche Bazaar. We then continue, eventually crossing over the Hilary Suspension Bridge, reaching Topdada. After a gentle climb of about an hour and a half through pine forests, Namche Bazaar is reached. Overnight Hotel. Trekking 5 – 6 hours.
Acclimatisation & Scenic Ascent:
Day 5: Acclimatisation in Namche Bazaar
This is the first of two scheduled acclimatisation days. You can spend the day exploring Namche Baazar itself or your guide will take you to the Tourist Visitor Centre near to the headquarters of the Sagamatha National Park. Trekking a few hundred vertical feet during the day will help you to acclimatise. Namche Baazar is the main centre of the Everest region and has government offices, ATM, internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and a colourful market each Friday evening and Saturday. Overnight Lodge.
Day 06: Namche to Thame (3,800m)
After a short uphill climb, the path opens to sweeping views, Kongde Ri (6,187m) rises to your left, while the elegant spire of Kusum Kanguru (6,373m) stands to your right. Descending into pine and juniper forest, you pass through the peaceful villages of Phorte and Samde, where mani walls and prayer flags mark the way. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Bhote Khosi River, the trail leads to Thame, a serene Sherpa village nestled beneath the cliffs, offering a glimpse into the region’s quieter rhythms. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 4-5 hours.
Day 07: Acclimatisation in Thame:
Today is our second acclimatisation day as our trek ascends higher. From Thame, a gentle one-hour uphill walk leads to Thame Monastery, one of the oldest in the Khumbu region, where you can explore its prayer halls and take in sweeping mountain views. Or, if you prefer, an optional acclimatisation hike takes you higher above the village towards Sundar Peak or Thame Teng. In the afternoon you can wander through Thame itself, meeting locals, watching yak caravans, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Overnight Tea House.
Into the High Khumbu:
Day 08: Thame to Lungden (4,500m)
Leaving Thame behind, the trail climbs steadily through alpine terrain. We follow the Bhote Khosi upstream, now trekking along its opposite bank. Passing through the remote hamlets of Marlung and Tangmote, prayer flags flutter and yak pastures stretch across the hillsides. At Trangga, the trail opens to superb views of Kongde Ri, its massive flanks rising behind you. The final ascent to Lungden is gradual but steady, leading to a high-altitude village nestled beneath rugged cliffs, a quiet staging point for the Renjo La Pass ahead. Overnight Tea House. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Day 09: Lungden to Renjo La Pass (5,360m), onto Gokyo (4,800m)
Today’s trek is one of the most spectacular on the entire route. The ascent to Renjo La begins early, winding through high alpine terrain. As you climb, the horizon unfolds, as Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Makalu, and Cholatse rise in majestic silence. From the top of Renjo La Pass, the view is breathtaking: below lies the turquoise expanse of Gokyo Lake, with Gokyo Village nestled beside the massive Ngozumpa Glacier – the longest in the Himalayas. After soaking in the panorama, you descend carefully to the lakeside settlement of Gokyo, a serene village surrounded by icy peaks and glacial waters. Overnight Lodge. trekking 8-9 hours
Glacier Worlds and High Crossings:
Day 10: Gokyo to Gokyo Ri, onto Thaknak (4,750m)
Before breakfast, you make the early morning ascent to Gokyo Ri (5,360m), one of the finest viewpoints in the Khumbu. As the sun rises, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu shimmer in the morning light. After descending to Gokyo for breakfast, the trail continues across the Ngozumpa Glacier, a surreal landscape of ice and rock, with views of Gokyo Ri behind and Cho Oyu towering ahead. The final descent leads to Thaknak, a quiet settlement tucked beneath the mountain. Overnight Lodge. trekking 5-6 hours.
Day 11: Thaknak to Cho La Pass (5,420m), onto Dzongla (4,830m)
Today’s trek is strenuous as the trail climbs steeply from Thaknak. The eastern approach to Cho La involves a careful glacier traverse, crampons may be needed as the path skirts the edge of a frozen lake. At the top of the pass, prayer flags flutter in the wind, marking one of the great crossings of the Khumbu. From this high vantage point, the views are extraordinary: jagged ridgelines, deep crevasses, and the distant silhouettes of Everest region peaks. The descent to Dzongla is steep and dramatic. Arriving in Dzongla, you’re greeted by sweeping views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Louche Peak, and the valley leading to Pheriche. Overnight Lodge. trekking 7-8 hours
Approaching Everest:
Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche (4,910m)
The trail begins with a gentle descent before crossing a small stream and rising steadily toward the high valley of Lobuche. The path soon straightens and climbs, offering a stunning sweep of Himalayan giants, Ama Dablam’, Thamserku, Lobuche Peak and Nuptse. To your left, the dark waters of Chola Tsho (Cholse Lake) shimmer beneath the cliffs, Along the way, you may pass small chortens and prayer flags. By early afternoon, you arrive in Lobuche, a windswept settlement perched beneath towering peaks. Overnight Lodge. Trekking: 3 hours
Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,100m), onto Everest Base Camp (5,360m)
Today marks one of the most anticipated moments of the trek. The trail leads across the Changri Shar Glacier. As you approach the edge of Gorak Shep the terrain flattens briefly, offering a dramatic view of the Khumbu Icefall. After lunch, taking water and your padded jacket, you begin the two-hour ascent to Everest Base Camp. The path follows the glacier’s edge, with towering peaks all around: Pumori, Nuptse, and the dark pyramid of Everest itself looming above. Reaching Base Camp is both humbling and exhilarating. After spending time at the camp, you descend back to Gorak Shep for the night. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 7-8 hrs.
High Passes and Panoramic Summits:
Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545m), back to Lobouche (4,910m)
We rise early for the steep, pre-dawn climb to Kala Patthar, ascending over rocky terrain. As the sun breaks over the eastern horizon, the panorama is unforgettable, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kantega, Kusum Kangaru, Tawache Peak, Labhuche Peak, as well as Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Icefall, and several lakes. After soaking in the views, we descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then begin our journey down to Lobouche, offering a peaceful rest after a powerful day. Overnight Lodge. Trekking 6-7 hours.
Day 15: Lobuche to Chukung( 4,700m) via Kangla pass ( 5,545m).
Leaving Lobuche after an early breakfast, the trail climbs steadily through rocky terrain and glacial moraines before ascending to Kangla Pass, a challenging but rewarding crossing that offers sweeping views of Makalu, Baruntse, and the Imja Valley. After pausing to take in the dramatic scenery, the route descends gradually into the Imja Valley, winding past alpine meadows and yak pastures with Ama Dablam’s striking peak in sight. By late afternoon you reach Chukung, where a lodge provides a warm meal, rest, and recovery. Overnight Lodge. Trekking 7-8 hours.
Descent Through the Khumbu:
Day 16, Chukung to Tengboche (3800m).
From Chukung, the trail descends through the Imja Valley, passing stone-walled fields and small settlements before joining the main Everest route near Pangboche. The walk offers striking views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks as you continue gradually downhill, crossing suspension bridges and winding through rhododendron and pine forests until we reach Tengboche. Home to its famous monastery and panoramic mountain vistas, this offers you a peaceful overnight stay amidst the spiritual heart of the Khumbu. Overnight Lodge. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Day 17, Tengboche to Namche bazaar ( 3440m).
Today, the trail descends through rhododendron and pine forests, passing small villages and suspension bridges as you make your way back towards the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar. The route offers glimpses of Everest and Ama Dablam before winding steadily down into the valley, with time to pause at tea houses or enjoy the scenery along the way. We arrive in Namche, where the lively atmosphere, shops, and lodges provide a welcome contrast to the quiet mountain trails, and a comfortable place to rest. Overnight lodge. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Day 18, Namche bazaar to Lukla (2840m).
The final day of the trek begins with a steady descent from Namche Bazaar, crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and retracing familiar forested trails dotted with prayer flags and small villages. The path undulates gently, offering time to reflect on the journey as you pass chortens and mani walls before the last gradual climb into Lukla. Here, there is a chance to celebrate your achievement with your team, and a well-earned rest, marking the completion of your Himalayan adventure. Overnight Lodge. Trekking 6-7 hours.
Farewell and Departure:
Day 19: Lukla to Ramechhap, onto Kathmandu
Weather permitting, we take the morning flight back to Ramechhap (the Lukla flights fly to Ramechhap during peak season and Kathmandu during off-season). Upon arrival in Ramechhap, we will travel by private vehicle to your 3* hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for, sightseeing, souvenir buying, or simply relaxing. In the evening, we invite you as our guest to enjoy a traditional Nepali farewell dinner together with our team in Kathmandu. Overnight 3★ Hotel. Flying Time 20 minutes. Driving 5-6 hours.
Day 20: Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll through the city or a short visit to a nearby temple. Our staff will escort you to the airport for your onward journey. Or, if you’re keen to explore more of Nepal’s wonders, we can help to arrange a custom extension to your trip.
What’s Included in your Your Everest Three High Passes Trek
Your adventure is thoughtfully designed to include everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and culturally rich experience — from airport transfers to farewell dinner.
- All hotel–airport transfers as per itinerary
- Kathmandu 3★ hotel – 3 nights, bed & breakfast
- Round-trip airfare and taxes between Ramechhap and Lukla (total 15kg luggage allowance)
- Round trip private transport between Kathmandu and Ramechhap airport
- 16 nights lodge and tea-house accommodation on trek
- Three meals a day during trek: breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea or coffee
- Fully licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (salary, food, equipment, insurance included). Assistant guide provided for every six trekkers
- Porter service (one porter per two trekkers; salary, food, insurance included)
- All necessary national park fees, permits, and paperwork
- Local and government taxes
- First aid kit available during trek
- Emergency helicopter arrangement (cost covered by your insurance )
- Complimentary trekking map to keep
- Complimentary trekking duffle bag to keep
- Complimentary loan of sleeping bag during trek
- Farewell dinner
What’s Not Included
- While we’ve covered the essentials, here are a few things you’ll need to arrange separately:
- International airfare and arrival/departure taxes to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fees upon arrival (please bring accurate USD cash and two passport-size photos)
- Personal travel/trekking insurance — You must have insurance, covering trekking up to 5,545m and rescue in case of emergency
- Additional expenses in tea-houses (Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, laundry, bottled drinks, speciality coffees (espresso, latte etc), snacks, bar bills, phone calls, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Extra night(s) accommodation in Kathmandu if returning early from the trek
- Tips for guides and porters
