The Everest Three High Passes Trek is considered one of the most adventurous and rewarding lessons on the Everest side. This trek provides experienced trekkers with the combined physical challenge and stunning Himalayan views to make the complete loop through the Khumbu, including Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and three high passes: Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
This guide will prepare you through every necessary step for this epic adventure, including details about the route, gear, and acclimatization.
Why You Would Pick the Everest Three High Passes Trek
Unlike the regular Everest Base Camp, this circuit will take you through untamed routes to high alpine terrains. You would be climbing glaciers on your way through vast alpine wilderness overlooking four of the tallest peaks in the world-Vier.
Some reasons to pick it up for a trek:
- It covers Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and the three major passes.
- Trails are less crowded, so you get to enjoy the solitude more.
- Great training for acclimatization and high-altitude trekking.
- Opportunities for rewarding pictures and cultural exposure
The Trek Overview
- Duration: 18 to 21 days
- Maximum elevation: 5,535 m (Kongma La Pass)
- Starting/ending: Lukla
- Trek difficulty: Challenging
- Permits required: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, TIMS Card
It is highly recommended to trek with a registered guide and a reputable company, such as Everest High Pass Adventures, for safety and logistical reasons.
Highlights of Three Passes
Kongma La Pass (5,535m)
Being the highest and most challenging of the three, the pass connects Chhukung to Lobuche and provides fantastic views of the Khumbu Glacier.
Cho La Pass (5,420m)
This icy pass links Dzongla with Gokyo Valley. It involves a glacier crossing, so good glacial footing is required: microspikes or crampons are advisable.
Renjo La Pass (5,340 m)
The last pass gives dramatic views over Gokyo Lakes and a very unique view of Everest all adorned with prayer flags. Often considered the most beautiful of the three.
When to Go
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather, rhododendrons in full bloom
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and good mountain views
- Better avoided: Monsoon season, i.e. rain season (June to August) and harsher deep winter (December to February) due to snow and poor visibility.
Packing Essentials
- Four-season sleeping bag and down jacket
- Microspikes or crampons along icy patches
- Trekking poles and sturdy boots
- Sunglasses with ample UV protection and more sunscreen
- Water purification tablets or filter
- First Aid kit and Diamox (consult your physician)
Travel light, because if you exceed 15 kilograms, it is too heavy for porters.
Acclimatization Tips
- Spend two nights in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to adjust to the altitude.
- The golden rule: climb high, sleep low.
- Stay well-hydrated, avoid alcohol, and limit caffeine intake.
- Watch for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Why trek with Everest High Pass Adventures
A local expert guarantees your safety, together with cultural insights and smoother logistics. Ensuring use of certified guides, custom itineraries, and porter services at your pace and comfort, a team of Everest High Pass adventure managers has decades of experience in leading treks over the highest Himalayas in Nepal.
Better avoided: Monsoon season, i.e. rain season (June to August) and harsher deep winter (December to February) due to snow and poor visibility.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp Three-High-Pass Traverse is more than just a trek. It is a full Himalayan test that stretches your endurance while rewarding you with memorable views and cultural exchanges. If taken with preparation and a good guide, this trek can be a lifetime adventure.
