Everest Three Passes Trek

Breakfast precedes your pilgrimage to Swayambhunath, where pilgrims spin prayer wheels beneath the iconic Buddha eyes, monkeys patrol ancient shrines, and the Himalayas pierce the horizon. Next, explore the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square with its ancient palaces and temples. Continue to Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture. Enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine or international flavors for lunch between sightseeing.

Swayambhunath: This ancient Buddhist sanctuary, dating back over 2,000 years, features Nepal's iconic white stupa adorned with the all-seeing Buddha eyes. The hilltop complex includes smaller shrines, prayer wheels, and resident monkeys. A spiritual carnival of altars, revolving prayers, and simian sentinels. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains a vital pilgrimage destination and offers panoramic Kathmandu Valley views.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases Nepal's royal history through exquisite Newari architecture. The square features historic places like Hanuman Dhoka, the sacred Kumari Ghar (Living Goddess residence), and temples including Taleju and Kal Bhairav. These intricately carved monuments offer a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square (Lalitpur)UNESCO World Heritage Site, dazzles with Newari architectural mastery. The square's highlights include the stone-carved Krishna Mandir, the exquisite Patan Museum, the golden-roofed Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, and the ornate Bhimsen Temple. Each courtyard and temple showcases the valley's unparalleled wood and metal craftsmanship.

Hotel

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Your Everest View Trek kicks off with an exhilarating 30-minute mountain flight to Lukla, offering aerial views of terraced hills and snow-capped peaks. After landing at one of the world's most adventurous airports, begin your trek descending through fragrant rhododendron forests alongside the Dudh Koshi River's turquoise waters.

The 3-4 hour hike covers 9km of well-maintained trails, passing traditional Sherpa villages with prayer-flag adorned bridges. Arriving in Phakding (2,651m), you'll find cozy teahouses nestled by the river - the perfect spot to acclimatize while enjoying your first close-up mountain vistas. As the sun sets behind the peaks, rest well knowing tomorrow brings Namche Bazaar and your first Everest views.

Flight: 40 min

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Travel Distance: 8 km

Simple Lodge

B

Your journey continues with a captivating 5-6 hour trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the vibrant Sherpa capital. Following the roaring Dudh Koshi River, you'll cross several dramatic suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge at 3,200m. The trail weaves through fragrant pine forests, offering teasing glimpses of Himalayan giants between the trees. The final steep ascent rewards you with entry to Sagarmatha National Park, where snow leopards and colorful pheasants roam. Suddenly, Namche appears - a bustling amphitheater of lodges, bakeries and gear shops clinging to the mountainside. Here, you'll spend two nights acclimatizing, exploring the lively market streets and enjoying your first proper views of Everest from the viewpoint above town.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Travel Distance: 11 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today is a vital rest day to help your body adjust to the altitude. Start by visiting the Sherpa Museum to learn about local traditions and mountaineering history. Later, take a short hike to Khumjung Village, home to the Hillary School and a revered yeti scalp at the local monastery. For spectacular mountain views, trek to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), where you can enjoy coffee with breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Remember to drink plenty of water, move gently, and soak in Namche’s vibrant atmosphere. Its bakeries, gear shops, and cozy cafés make it the perfect place to recharge before continuing your journey.

Simple Lodge

B

Today's 5-6 hour trek takes you deeper into the heart of the Khumbu region, ascending to the spiritual center of Tengboche (3,867m). The trail begins with a descent to the Dudh Koshi River, crossing swaying suspension bridges adorned with colorful prayer flags. As you climb steadily, each turn reveals breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, and the iconic Ama Dablam, its pyramid peak dominating the skyline.

The path winds through fragrant rhododendron forests and traditional Sherpa settlements, where you might spot yaks grazing in high pastures. Your destination, Tengboche Monastery, emerges dramatically against a backdrop of snow-capped giants. This sacred site, the largest Buddhist monastery in the region, offers peaceful courtyards for meditation and stunning sunset views.

As evening falls, the mountains glow in alpenglow while monks chant prayers. Overnight in cozy lodges, listening to the distant sound of monastery bells echoing through the Himalayan night.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Travel Distance: 10 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today's 5-6 hour trek elevates you to 4,410m as you journey from Tengboche to Dingboche, entering the dramatic Imja Valley. The trail descends through fragrant rhododendron forests to cross the Imja Khola on a sturdy bridge, then climbs steadily past Pangboche village, home to the region's oldest monastery. With each step, the landscape transforms – lush valleys give way to rugged alpine terrain, where stone-walled fields showcase the Sherpas' remarkable high-altitude agriculture. Towering peaks surround you: Ama Dablam's imposing face, the icy Lhotse wall, and Everest's distant summit peeking between ridges.

Arriving in Dingboche, you'll find cozy lodges nestled among barley and potato fields. Take time to acclimatize, sipping ginger tea while admiring the sunset painting Nuptse's massive face in golden hues, a perfect end to your ascent into the high Himalayas.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Travel Distance: 9 km

Simple Lodge

B

Nestled at 4,410m, Dingboche charms visitors with its stone-walled fields protecting barley and potatoes from mountain winds. Today's vital pause unlocks stunning Himalayan panoramas.

The Nagarjun Hill hike rewards with 360-degree panoramas of Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam's iconic pyramid. Alternatively, explore Chhukung Valley's glacial moraines beneath Taboche's towering face. Both routes provide essential altitude adaptation while showcasing the Khumbu's raw beauty.

As afternoon clouds dance around Ama Dablam's summit, return to Dingboche's cozy lodges. Enjoy warm drinks while watching sunlight fade on the Imja Valley's sculpted peaks, nature's perfect high-altitude classroom for aspiring mountaineers and trekkers alike.

Simple Lodge

B

Today's challenging yet rewarding trek takes you from Dingboche (4,410m) to Chhukung (4,730m), followed by an ascent of Chhukung Ri (5,550m). The trail winds through glacial moraines with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse wall growing ever closer.

After 2-3 hours, reach Chhukung village, where mountaineers prepare for Island Peak climbs. Fuel up with lunch before tackling the steep 2-hour climb to Chhukung Ri's summit. Pace yourself – the thin air demands patience. Your effort is rewarded with one of the Khumbu's finest panoramas: Makalu's sharp pyramid, the massive Lhotse face, and hanging glaciers glistening in all directions.

Descend carefully to Chhukung as afternoon clouds roll in. Celebrate your high-altitude achievement with a warm meal in this rugged mountain outpost, surrounded by some of Earth's most dramatic peaks.

Climbing: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 14 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today brings the trek's most challenging yet spectacular section – crossing the 5,535m Kongma La pass. Depart Chhukung before dawn with headlamps illuminating the rocky trail as you ascend through a lunar-like landscape of moraines and glacial lakes.

The 4-5 hour climb rewards you with sunrise over Makalu's towering pyramid and 360-degree views of Himalayan giants. Seal your achievement where Everest dominates the horizon, bookended by icy giants.

The steep 3-hour descent to Lobuche (4,910m) traverses ancient glacier paths. Arriving exhausted but exhilarated, settle into a cozy lodge where hot drinks and mountain stories await. As night falls, the Khumbu Glacier's eerie rumble reminds you of nature's power at these altitudes.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 10 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today brings the trek's most iconic moment – reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m). The challenging 3-hour ascent to Gorak Shep (5,164m) winds through the Khumbu Glacier's rocky moraines, with Pumori's towering face guiding your way. After a quick tea break at the world's highest settlement, continue towards EBC.

The 2-hour traverse across the glacier's frozen waves reveals surreal ice sculptures and climbers' tents dotting the moraine. At Base Camp, stand where legends begin their Everest summit bids, surrounded by the Khumbu Icefall's jagged seracs and the mighty Lhotse-Nuptse wall. Prayer flags snap in the wind as you absorb this mountaineering mecca's raw energy.

Return to Gorak Shep as dusk paints Everest in alpenglow, completing your pilgrimage to the roof of the world.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 13 km

Simple Lodge

B

Your pre-dawn ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545m) begins under a blanket of stars, headlamps tracing the steep switchbacks. As dawn breaks, witness Everest's summit glowing crimson above the Khumbu Glacier - the world's highest peak unveiled in its full majesty alongside Nuptse and Pumori's towering faces.

After capturing this unforgettable sunrise, descend carefully to Gorak Shep for breakfast. The return trek to Lobuche (4,910m) follows the moraine's rocky path, now familiar yet still awe-inspiring. Arriving by midday, enjoy a well-earned rest at your lodge. Spend the afternoon reliving your summit experience through photos and journaling, while acclimatizing for the days ahead as yaks graze outside your window.

Hiking: 8-9 hrs.

Travel Distance: 7 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today's 4-5 hour trek transports you from Lobuche to the secluded village of Dzongla (4,830m), offering some of Khumbu’s most dramatic mountain scenery. The route carves through Khumbu’s lateral moraine, Ama Dablam’s snow-capped apex glowing at day’s end.

As you contour around the valley, the landscape transforms – jagged peaks give way to turquoise glacial lakes, while the trail occasionally crosses boulder fields requiring careful footing. Dzongla emerges like a mirage, its handful of lodges perched dramatically beneath the towering walls of Cholatse and Lobuche peaks.

Spend the afternoon soaking in 360-degree Himalayan vistas from your lodge, watching sunlight dance across the glaciers. This peaceful haven provides perfect preparation for tomorrow's crossing of the challenging Cho La pass.

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Travel Distance: 6km

Simple Lodge

B

Your pre-dawn departure from Dzongla begins the most exhilarating day of the trek. The steep 3-hour climb to Cho La Pass (5,420m) traverses boulder fields and glacial terrain – crampons may be needed in icy conditions. As sunrise illuminates the Khumbu, you'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Everest's southwest face and the Ama Dablam-Lhotse wall.

The technical descent to Thagnak requires careful footing on loose scree before leveling out across the Ngozumpa Glacier's vast expanse. Marvel at the glacier's surreal blue pools as you approach Gokyo’s stunning turquoise lakes. Arriving at Gokyo (4,750m), the sight of prayer flags fluttering against Cho Oyu's massive face will leave you breathless, both from altitude and awe.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Travel Distance: 6 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today's pre-dawn climb to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) rewards early risers with sunrise painting Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu in golden hues. The steep 2-3 hour ascent culminates in one of Nepal's finest viewpoints, where four 8,000m peaks become visible across the glaciated landscape.

Descend for a leisurely breakfast before exploring Gokyo's magical turquoise lakes. The 4th and 5th lakes shimmer like jewels beneath the Ngozumpa Glacier's icy fingers. Walk along their shores, spotting Brahminy ducks gliding across mirror-like surfaces reflecting towering peaks.

Spend the afternoon resting at your lodge, sipping tea while watching sunlight dance on Cho Oyu's massive face. This perfect acclimatization day blends adventure with serenity in the heart of the high Himalayas.

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Simple Lodge

B

Your pre-dawn departure from Gokyo begins with a steady climb towards Renjo La Pass (5,360m), where sunrise unveils a breathtaking panorama of Everest, Makalu, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes below. The 3-4 hour ascent over rocky moraines rewards you with one of the Khumbu's most spectacular viewpoints.

The descent into the remote Bhote Koshi Valley winds through yak pastures and traditional Sherpa hamlets. As you lose altitude, the air grows thicker, rejuvenating your body after days at high elevation. Arriving in Marlung (4,210m), enjoy the village's peaceful atmosphere and warmer temperatures.

Settle into a cozy lodge, savoring your accomplishment over hot lemon tea as the sun sets behind the Nangpai Gosum peaks – a perfect finale to your high mountain crossings.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Travel Distance: 11 km

Simple Lodge

B

Today's 6-7 hour descent follows the Bhote Koshi River through lush rhododendron forests, where the air grows noticeably thicker as you lose altitude. Passing through Thame village, you'll witness traditional Sherpa life unchanged for generations - yak caravans, prayer wheel-lined trails, and ancient monasteries clinging to cliffs.

Arriving in bustling Namche Bazaar (3,440m) feels like returning to another world. Treat yourself to a hot shower, bakery treats, and souvenir shopping in this vibrant mountain town. Cap your day with sunset drinks at the Everest View Hotel, where Ama Dablam's golden glow reminds you how far you've come.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Travel Distance: 15 km

Simple Lodge

B

Your final trekking day begins with a pleasant descent through the Bhote Koshi Valley, where the trail winds past traditional water-driven prayer wheels and through fragrant pine forests. As you approach Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the familiar hum of this Himalayan hub welcomes you back - the clatter of yak bells mixing with laughter from cozy cafés.

Reward your journey with a fresh cinnamon roll from Hermann's Bakery and browse colorful market stalls for souvenirs. The afternoon offers one last pilgrimage to the Everest View Hotel's terrace, where you'll raise a toast to your adventure as the sun sets behind Ama Dablam's iconic peak.

Tonight, celebrate with your team over steaming plates of dal bhat, sharing stories that will last long after you leave these magical mountains.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 19 km

Simple Lodge

B

Your Everest adventure concludes with an unforgettable morning flight from Lukla's dramatic mountain airstrip. As the tiny aircraft lifts off, catch final glimpses of the Khumbu's snow-capped peaks through your window - a breathtaking aerial farewell to the world's highest mountains.

Touching down in Kathmandu, the city's vibrant energy welcomes you back. After checking into your hotel, spend your afternoon wandering through Thamel's colorful alleys, hunting for souvenirs or enjoying a well-deserved massage. As evening falls, gather with your team for a celebratory dinner, reminiscing about conquering Everest's foothills while savoring authentic Newari cuisine.

Flight: 40 min

Hotel

B

On your twentieth day, enjoy a free morning in Kathmandu before your departure. As your flight time approaches, you’ll be transferred to the airport in time for your onward journey.

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Ø  The best times for this trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and mountain views are clear.

Ø  This trek is highly challenging and not recommended for beginners. Prior high-altitude trekking experience, physical fitness, and acclimatization are crucial.

Ø  A guide is not mandatory, but it's recommended for safety, navigation, and managing the challenges of the high passes. Experienced guides are familiar with the terrain and altitude.

Ø  You will need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit for this trek. These can be obtained in Kathmandu.

Ø  A high level of physical fitness is necessary due to the long trekking days, high altitudes, steep ascents, and demanding terrain. Cardiovascular training and strength are essential.

Ø  Essentials include warm clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a down jacket, a daypack, a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather, and a trekking pole.

Ø  Highlights include crossing the three challenging high passes, visiting Everest Base Camp, exploring the Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Lakes, and enjoying panoramic mountain views.

Ø  Some customization is possible. You can extend your stay in specific regions, add side trips, or explore nearby attractions. Discuss these options with your trekking agency.

Ø  Altitude sickness is a concern, especially when crossing the high passes. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and monitoring of symptoms are crucial to minimize the risk.

Ø  Teahouses and lodges are available along the route, providing basic but comfortable accommodations and meals. These are convenient for trekkers.

Ø  It's best to book through a reputable trekking agency before your trip. They can assist with permits, accommodations, and logistics for this challenging and rewarding trek.

Ø  The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its high-altitude passes and rough terrain. Trekkers should have prior high-altitude trekking experience and be in good physical condition.

Ø  In case of emergencies, there are helicopter rescue services available in the Everest region. It's essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation.

Ø  You can trek independently if you have previous trekking experience and are well-prepared. However, many trekkers choose to join organized groups for safety and convenience.