The Three passes (3 passes) Everest base camp trek 2025

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Trip Facts
  • Duration 20 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max Altitude 5644m
  • Trip Start and End From Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Season Mar - mai, Oct-Nov
Highlights

Trek Highlights – Three Passes Everest Base Camp Trek

  • Multiple High Passes: Cross three challenging high passes (e.g., Kongma La, Cho La, Renjo La) that test your trekking skills and reward you with panoramic Himalayan vistas.

  • Everest Base Camp Experience: Walk the iconic trail to Everest Base Camp, witnessing the raw beauty of the Khumbu region and its majestic peaks.

  • Scenic Flights: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views on the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, setting the tone for your Himalayan adventure.

  • Diverse Landscapes: Traverse through lush rhododendron forests, rugged glacial terrain, and traditional Sherpa villages, each offering unique cultural insights and natural beauty.

  • Acclimatization & Rest Days: Carefully planned rest days in Namche Bazaar and other key locations to ensure proper acclimatization, enhancing your overall trekking experience.

  • Expert Guidance: Led by experienced, government-licensed trekking guides and supported by porters, ensuring safety and personalized attention throughout the trek.

  • Cultural Encounters: Immerse yourself in the local Sherpa culture with visits to ancient monasteries, bustling local markets, and traditional villages.

  • Flexible Departure Options: Choose from fixed departure dates during peak seasons or opt for a private, customized itinerary that fits your schedule.

Three passes (3 passes) Everest base camp trek

The three-pass trekking is the more challenging circuit in the Khumbu region than other classic treks to Everest Base Camp. This circuit can be traversed under good weather conditions and those who are physically fit and ambitiously seeking the thrills of the Himalayan adventure trek. East to West the high mountain passes are Renjola (5376,/17,634 fits) Chola Pass (5420m,/17,783fit) and the last pass is Kongmala Pass (5527m,/18,135fit)
Kalapatthar 5555m

The adventure includes all the mountain scenery you can take and more, with soaring mountains and alpine landscapes surrounding you at every step. It offers a glimpse of the lifestyle and culture of the world-renowned mountain race Sherpas. In addition to experiencing the Buddhist Sherpa culture. Some consider this strenuous trek to be the best of the Everest trek. It is designed to include panoramas of the famous pea, including Everest (8848m) Lhotse (8511m), Nuptse (7864m), Cho-Oyu (8201m), Makalu (8475m), among others from this viewpoint.

Itinerary

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Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative will meet you, and then you will be transferred to the hotel. From here, check in, freshen up, and spend your time at Thamel, the colorful tourist hub of Kathmandu. We meet in the evening, discuss the trek, and prepare you for it.

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsFree
  • Max Altitude1340m

Kathmandu is the historical and cultural heart of Nepal. The city presents a wonderful mixture of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence. City guide can be arranged by paying addition charge

 

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsB
  • Max Altitude1340m

A flight to Lukla and a landing on a steep mountain runway brings us to the start of our trek at the village of Lukla. After meeting the crew, we head up the Dudh Koshi Valley and stay overnight in Phakding. On the way, we come across fields of potatoes and buckwheat and also pass through small Sherpa villages.

Kathmandu - Lukla flights have been removed, instead alternate route from Manthali Airport of Ramechhap which is 130km from Kathmandu. To get there you will have to depart from Kathmandu as early as 2 a.m. by shuttle bus. You can travel a day before by reserving a jeep or by Bus paying an extra charge for the vehicle.

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2623m

We trek along the Dudh- Koshi River and cross some suspension bridges over it, we cross the Sagarmatha National Park control point at Monjo. From Monjo, we continue the path along DudhKoshi up to Larja Dobhan. After we cross the last suspension bridge over Dudh Koshi at Larja Dobhan, we begin the long stiff ups hill up to Namche Bazaar. On the way, we notice the first view of Mount Everest. While on the way we may witness the monkeys, leopards, mammals, and many varieties of prey birds (Eagles, Falcons, and Himalayan Vultures).

 

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3446m

Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu. It is an ideal place to spend a day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before heading off towards Tengboche. To acclimatize, we can visit the Khunde Hospital, set up by Sir Edmund Hillary, or take a one-hour walk up to the Everest View Hotel above Namche for the sunset view of Ama Dablam (6856m), Nuptse (7896 m), Lhotse (8511m) and Everest (8848m) then late afternoon return to Namche Bazaar.

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3446m

Trek to Thame via Thamo. This trail is the entry route to Tibet through Nangpa La Pass. Nearby is Cho Oyu 8012m, which was first, summated in 1954. Thame is a popular village to many famous Sherpa mountaineers, including Apa Sherpa 27 times,  Kami Rita Sherpa who has scaled the mountain 24 times, and Ang Rita Sherpa, who summited Everest eleven times without oxygen. It was also a childhood home of Tenzing Norgay, who was (with Sir Edmund Hillary) one of the first men to climb Mount Everest. It is also where the famous Lama Zopa Rinpoche, the Lawudo Lama, head of The Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT) was founded in 1975 by Lamas Thubten Yeshe and Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, who began teaching Buddhism to Western students in Nepal. The FPMT has grown to encompass over 160 Dharma centers, FPMT, was born. The Thame monastery is one of the oldest in the Khumbu region and is famous for the annual Mani Rimdu festival. Afternoon excursion around Thame  and overnight lodge

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3960m

We climb up increasingly in the flat and wide valleys of the pasturage. With panoramic Himalayas in the background. Animals like yaks, Himalayan goats, etc…can be seen grazing on the pastures. Further away, is a hamlet (Makyo) with a beautiful landscape, farms of potatoes, and yak shelters in numerous places. After passing the hamlet, we ascend towards Lungden by crossing a metal bridge.

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude4500m.

We leave early morning and moving up gradually, we will have an impressive panoramic view from Renjo la (5360m)  over the Himalayan range of Makalu (8463m), Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8501m), Lhotse Sar (8386m), Cho Oyu (8153m)….You can also catch sight of  Bhote Koshi Valley and  Chola Pass…,

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude5360m/4900m

If the weather is clear this morning wake up early in the morning for the sunrise (optional) from Gokyo Ri  (Gokyo Peak 5350m) from where we can admire the great view of the sunshine and panoramic views of Himalayan ranges such as Makalu (8463m), The Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8501m), Lhotse Sar (8386m), Cho Oyu (8153m).  Not only this, again we are not far away from another marvelous site of the valley along with Bhote Koshi, Chola Pass. Then we slowly but surely climb down towards the Gokyo Lake. After breakfast short walk, as we needed to get prepared to make a long walk through Chola pass for the next day. We gently walk down just up to the first lake of the Gokyo and then we cross Ngozumpa glacier to reach Dragnak.

 

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude(5357m) (4900m) (4500m)

We start our trek early in the morning as today is the toughest day of our entire trek. The pass is not itself difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. We need to be careful as the trail is vertical and the rocks glazed by ice add trouble to the trekkers making the trail slippery. Though the trail from the foot of the pass climbs through a ravine and a rocky trail we climb up continuously.  From the Cholo pass we have the stunning view of the pyramidal Ama Dablam the range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soar on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. We trek downhill through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla, another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak, and the Pheriche village far below.

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude(5368m) (4950m)

Today's walk will be a bit brief and easy. Thus, we would get more time to observe and relax. We climb down from Dzongla cross a bridge and then transverse through a grassy trail. Enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak we stretch up eventually through a ridge. Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and Thamserku Taboche are seen looming prominently. Curving round through the wide gravelly river bed, we will be at Lobuche. Overnight at Lobuche.

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude4900m

The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. On the trail, we perceive a 360-degree vista of snowy mountain peaks. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will find snow-capped mountains looming all around us including the top of the world - Mt. Everest and we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a grey-green knoll beneath Mt. Pumori. We ascend a slope uphill at a slow pace to Kala Patthar, we can pause to catch our breath at several outstanding viewpoints to snap pictures.
Upon arrival on the top of Kalapathar, the prayer flags are hovering over the cairns. We sit on the Kala Patthar where rocks our eyes take an unbelievable Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another. After capturing unforgettable photos of the snow-capped mountain, walk back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stop,

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude5644m/5100m

After breakfast, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, we really appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the Spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. Everest actually is not visible from here. By now we have met the ultimate objective of our trip. Back to Labuche for overnight stop
 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude5300m/4900m.

We start again our trek early morning walking through Khumbu glacier towards east. After crossing the glacier and river the trail leads up to the pass which is the highest pass of this trip. There will be no tea shop and water resource so that you will have to carry few bottles of water and packed foods. After hard climb to the top, the trail drops steep down to the Chukung valley where your day ends. Stay overnight at the lodge.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude4730m

Today is an easy day which is downhill through the valley. The trail continues leads down to the Dingboche then after the walking valley gets change through few Sherpa villages. After Pangboche village the trail drops down to the river and cross the bridge. After that the trail leads up to the Tengboche where the oldest Monastery situated on the top of the hill. Evening visit Monastery, see the Buddhist chanting ceremony and overnight at the lodge.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3967m

Today your day starts walking steep downhill through the Rhododendron forest. Once you get at the bottom of the hill, cross the bridge and steep climbing again through the pine and Juniper forest to the Khumjung. After explore the village at Khumjung,Lunch and continue walk to the Namche Bazzar for overnight.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3446m

Finally we return to Lukla where the trek began, which will seem like a lifetime ago. Enjoying time to reflect on the trek as a group and the personal achievement of all those who took part. Also giving you time to explore the town.

 

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2800m

Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited for one last time on the 20 minute Scenic flight back to Manthali then transferred back to Kathmandu

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBL
  • Max Altitude1340m

Free day reserved for shopping or if weather condition of the previous day unfavorable return flight Lukla/Kathmandu,

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsB
  • Max Altitude1340m

(Departure time from hotel will be fixed as per your flight schedules for the return)

 

  • MealsB
  • Max Altitude1340m

Not satisfied with this regular itinerary?

Are you thinking to plan your custom trip now.

Included
  • Transfer:  Airport / Hotel pick up & drop by private car/van as per group size.
  • Flight Manthali/Lukla/Manthali.
  • Full board meals during the trekking, accommodation in twin sharing Lodges.  (Meals can be choose from Menu) (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea and coffee.) (Except beverage)
  • An Experienced & Professional Government license holder English speaking trained Trekking guide.
  • Sagarmatha National park permit
  • New Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) permit to the trekking region. You will require 4 passport size photos.
  • 4 nights at Hotel Inernational Gues House in Katmandu or Similar category on a twin sharing bed and BB basis.
  • First aid kit will be available during the trek.
  • All personal gears and group equipments will be carried by porter i.e. (1 porter for 2 clients, one porter carry max 20-25 kg).
  • Staffs Insurance.
  • Domestic airport taxes.
Excluded
  • Meals in Katmandu except breakfast (Near about $US 10 – 15 per day/person)
  • Nepal entry Visa Fee (You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Nepal ’s Airport in Katmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos.
  • International Airfare and Airport Taxes.
  • Entrance fees in the Historical site /Monument at KTM.
  • Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks or bar menu.
  • Personal trekking Equipment, travel and medical insurance & helicopter in case for emergency Rescue evacuation, personal expenses,
  • Any expenses caused by reason beyond our control such as roadblock due to natural climates and accidents and unforeseen events etc…
  • Tips and Gratitude.

Departure Dates

Friday Feb 28, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
PriceUS$ 1,775.00
AvailabilityAvailable

Departure Notes for the Three Passes Everest Base Camp Trek

We offer both fixed departures and private treks for the Three Passes Everest Base Camp Trek throughout the year. Below are the essential details to assist you in planning your adventure:

Fixed Departure Dates

📅 Regular Group Departures: We schedule group treks during the prime trekking seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). These periods offer the most favorable weather and trail conditions. You can join an existing group or request a customized departure date to suit your schedule.

Private & Customized Departures

🔹 Tailored Treks: If our fixed departure dates don't align with your plans, we can arrange a private trek tailored to your preferred schedule. This option is ideal for individuals, couples, families, or private groups seeking a personalized experience.

Last-Minute Bookings

✈️ Spontaneous Plans: We accommodate last-minute bookings; however, to ensure the availability of guides, accommodations, and necessary permits, we recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance.

Minimum & Maximum Group Size

👥 Group Requirements: Our fixed departures require a minimum of 2 trekkers to proceed. For private treks, we cater to solo travelers as well as larger groups. Discounts are available for groups of 5 or more.

Flight & Transport Considerations

🛫 Lukla Flights: The trek commences with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Due to variable weather conditions in the Himalayas, flight schedules can be unpredictable. We recommend allocating buffer days in your itinerary to accommodate potential delays.

Extra Days & Weather Buffer

Weather Contingencies: The Himalayan weather is unpredictable. We advise adding an extra day or two to your itinerary to manage potential delays, ensuring you don't miss your international flight home due to unforeseen circumstances.

How to Confirm Your Booking?

Reservation Process: To secure your spot, a 30% deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance payable upon arrival in Kathmandu. Payments can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or cash.

Need More Information?

📩 Contact Us: If you have any questions about departure dates, availability, or trek customization, feel free to contact us anytime! Our team is here to assist you in planning your perfect Himalayan adventure.

Embark on this unforgettable journey through the Three Passes and Everest Base Camp with us, and experience the majestic beauty of the Himalayas like never before.

The Three passes (3 passes) Everest base camp trek 2025 FAQs

  • Helicopter flights back to Kathmandu from Lukla can be pre-arranged at an extra cost. This facility is particularly popular during the peak season when road transfers may be lengthy.

  • This trek requires moderate to high fitness levels. Regular cardiovascular and strength training is recommended for all participants.

  • • Physical training: There should be cardio exercises, strength exercises, and practice hikes to develop strength and stamina.

    • Acclimatization: Make sure there is some acclimatization day or two so that you can get used to the high altitude and reduce the possibility of getting mountain sickness. Gear: You need to have the necessary trekking gear, which includes strong boots and warm clothing along with a good quality sleeping bag.

  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This is required by all trekkers trekking into the region of Everest.

    Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: Introduced in October 2018, this is the new permit that replaced the TIMS card for the Khumbu area.

    These permits shall be arranged by us.

  • Most accommodations will be in teahouses, which are standard in their services with beds, shared toilet facilities, and meals. You will be accommodated in a hotel in Kathmandu with more facilities and services.

  • The standard itinerary for this trek planning is for 20 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including days for acclimatization and possible weather interruptions.

  • The best seasons for trekking are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)—stable weather affords clear views. Treks can also be done in monsoons (June- August) or even in winter, with added challenges such as heavy rains or snow.
     

  • This trek is considered strenuous due to its length, high altitudes, and challenging terrain. It is suitable for trekkers who are physically fit and have prior high-altitude trekking experience.

  • This is one of the most challenging and popular circuits in the Khumbu region, which allows trekkers to cross three high mountain passes: Renjo La (5,376m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,527m). This track enables one to view panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho-Oyu, and Makalu. It is meant for those who would want to experience something exotic and comprehensive in the Everest region.

  •  

    Panoramic Everest Viewpoint – Pikey Peak is one of the best non-touristy spots to see Everest.
    Sacred Pilgrimage Site – Visit Dudh Kunda, a revered glacial lake.
    Rich Sherpa Culture – Explore monasteries and traditional villages.
    Less Crowded Trails – Escape the busy Everest routes and enjoy pristine nature.

  • he trek leaders are professional, licensed by the Government of Nepal, and other necessary support, including porters in the ratio of one for two trekkers. The company will be handling full logistics and permit requirements, including transport arrangements.

  •  A minimum of 2 trekkers is needed for fixed departure. We organize private treks for a solo trekker to any size group, with a discount for those in a group of 5 or more.

  • Private and custom treks are available, either suiting well with the laid out program or interested in personalized experiences

  •  Due to the unpredictable nature of the Himalayan weather, it is always recommended that you have an extra buffer day in your itinerary. This extra day may save you from missing your international flight back home if you have delays in flights from Lukla.

  • We recommend booking around 2-3 weeks in advance of your desired departure date. This is particularly important for the case of last-minute trekkers to secure guide services, permits, and accommodations.

  • The best time to trek the region is during Spring (March-May) and Autumn(September-November) when the weather is fairly stable and conditions are perfect.

    • Experience Everest Base Camp and the stunning Gokyo Lakes
    •  Cross the challenging Cho La Pass for an adventurous twist
    • Summit Gokyo Ri for unparalleled views of Everest and surrounding peaks
    • Immerse in Sherpa culture and visit ancient monasteries
    •  Witness breathtaking glaciers, high-altitude landscapes, and serene alpine lakes
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