Explore Adventures

Three Passes Trek

Cross three of the most spectacular high-altitude passes in the Khumbu region — Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This challenging circuit offers unparalleled views and a true test of endurance.

19 Days
5545m Max
Challenging

From

$1449

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4.9(89 reviews)
Lukla to Lukla

About This Trek

The Three Passes Trek is one of the most iconic and sought-after trekking experiences in the Everest Region of Nepal. This 19-day journey takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas, reaching a maximum altitude of 5545m.

Cross three of the most spectacular high-altitude passes in the Khumbu region — Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This challenging circuit offers unparalleled views and a true test of endurance.

Throughout the trek, you'll experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of the local communities. The trail passes through dramatic glacial valleys, high-altitude deserts, and pristine alpine environments. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and comfort while sharing their deep knowledge of the region's history, flora, and fauna.

This trek is rated as "Challenging" and is designed for experienced trekkers seeking a demanding adventure with significant altitude gains and remote terrain.

Duration19 Days
Max Altitude5545m
DifficultyChallenging
Group Size2-12

Trek Highlights

Cross three legendary passes above 5,300m

Visit turquoise Gokyo Lakes

Climb Gokyo Ri for 360° panoramas

Stand at Everest Base Camp

Sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m)

Remote and less-crowded trails

Dramatic glacial landscapes

Full Khumbu region immersion

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Welcome dinner and trek briefing with your guide. Explore Thamel district if time permits.

1400m
11.6km approx.

Travel to the trek starting point. Depending on the route, this may involve a scenic flight or a drive through beautiful Nepalese countryside. Brief orientation walk in the afternoon.

2455m
17.5km approx.

Trek through lush valleys, suspension bridges, and terraced hillsides. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

2999m
16.6km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

3368m
17.2km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3701m
14.5km approx.

Rest day for proper acclimatization. Optional short hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning views. This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude and ensuring your safety for the higher sections ahead.

4012m
10.5km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 8 hours.

4307m
9.8km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

4591m
15.5km approx.

Early morning start to reach the highest point of the trek at 4865m. Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This is the highlight of your Three Passes Trek. Descend to a lower camp for the night.

5545m
9.5km approx.

Rest day for proper acclimatization. Optional short hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning views. This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude and ensuring your safety for the higher sections ahead.

5132m
13.6km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

5392m
8.6km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

5151m
10.2km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

4598m
9.1km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

4163m
13.9km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3782m
16km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

3433m
12.9km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

3108m
15km approx.

Final day of trekking. Descend through forests and villages. Celebration dinner with the trekking team in the evening.

2076m
8.6km approx.

Return to Kathmandu by flight or vehicle. Free time for shopping and sightseeing. Farewell dinner with the team to celebrate your achievement.

1400m
17.7km approx.

What's Included

Included

  • Airport & hotel pickup/drop-off
  • All ground transportation
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Teahouse & camping accommodation
  • Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • All necessary permits and entry fees
  • First aid kit and oximeter
  • Sleeping bag (if required)
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Trek completion certificate
  • Government taxes and service charges

Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking gear and clothing
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Alcoholic and bottled beverages
  • Hot showers and device charging (where available)
  • Emergency evacuation costs (covered by insurance)
  • Any costs arising from itinerary changes due to weather or health

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this trek.

The Three Passes Trek is rated as "Challenging". This is a demanding trek that requires excellent physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. You should be able to trek 6-8 hours daily on rough terrain. We strongly recommend a training program starting at least 3 months before departure.
The best seasons for the Three Passes Trek are Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov). During these periods, you can expect stable weather, clear skies, and excellent mountain views. The autumn season (September-November) typically offers the clearest visibility, while spring (March-May) brings beautiful rhododendron blooms. Monsoon (June-August) and winter (December-February) are generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall and extreme cold respectively.
The trek price of $1449 per person includes airport/hotel transfers, all ground transportation, experienced English-speaking guide, porters (1 per 2 trekkers), all accommodation during the trek, three meals per day, necessary permits and entry fees, first aid kit, and a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. Government taxes and service charges are also included.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to $100,000, trek-related accidents, trip cancellation, and medical treatment at altitudes up to 5545m. We can recommend reputable insurance providers that cater specifically to high-altitude trekking.
We recommend starting your training at least 8-12 weeks before the trek. Focus on cardiovascular fitness (running, cycling, swimming), leg strength exercises (squats, lunges, stair climbing), and practice hikes with a loaded backpack. Try to include some uphill walking to simulate trail conditions. Yoga and stretching are also beneficial for flexibility and mental preparation.
The Three Passes Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5545m. Our itinerary is carefully designed with proper acclimatization days built in. We follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Our guides are trained in recognizing symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and carry pulse oximeters and first aid kits. We also have contingency evacuation plans. Staying well-hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and avoiding alcohol at high altitudes are key prevention strategies.