Three passes trek

21 DAY TREKKING

Experience
great hights

The Three Passes Trek takes you deep into the heart of the Khumbu, crossing three high passes; Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m), while also visiting Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar (5,550m). This challenging route offers breathtaking views and is perfect for trekkers looking for a truly complete and adventurous experience in the Himalayas.

  • Cross 3 high passes: Renjo La, Cho La & Kongma La
  • Reach Everest Base Camp
  • Beautiful Gokyo Lake
  • More remote valleys and quiet trails
  • Stunning Himalayan views
  • Certified and experienced guide
  • Return flight Lukla
  • Fair pay and good care for all staff
  • Adventure of your lifetime

difficulty

Comfort

From €2.650,-

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Trek duration

21 days
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The Three Passes Trek was tough but so beautiful. We saw amazing mountains and quiet valleys. Our guide and porter were very kind and knew a lot about the area. They took great care of us the whole way. We felt safe and supported every day. I really recommend Sherpa Trekking for this big adventure!

J. & P. Hoogendoorn, The Netherlands

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

Elevation: 1.300m/4.264 ft

Your guide will be waiting for you upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. He will bring you to your hotel in the vibrant city centre of Kathmandu; Thamel. Take your time to rest after long travels or go explore around Kathmandu

Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and trek preparation

Elevation: 1.300m/4.264 ft

Today you will have time to acclimatize and explore beautiful Kathmandu. A city guide will pick you up at the hotel and take you on a tour to visit the most iconic places.

In the afternoon there will be time to buy some last necessary items if you need. Your guide will check your gear to see if you have everything you need. In the evening you will have dinner together with the guide and have a full briefing of the upcoming trip.

Day 3: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding

Elevation: 2.651m/8.700ft | Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours |  Distance: 8km

You will be picked up early in the morning to go to the airport in Kathmandu or Ramechap. From there you will fly to one of the most famous airports in the world; Lukla Airport. This is the gateway to Everest and where your journey will start. After meeting the porters and all the luggage is packed the trekking will finally begin! A gentle trek leads you through lush forests and small Sherpa villages to Phakding.

Day 4: Phakding – Namche Bazaar

Elevation: 3.440m/11.280 ft | Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours | Distance: 11km

Today you will cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. Right after crossing this bridge you’ll have your first view on Everest! You will be now climbing steadily into Namche Bazaar, the heart of the Khumbu region.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar

Elevation: 3.440m/11.284ft | Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours | Distance: 8km

A day to adjust to the altitude. We will explore the vibrant town, visit the Everest View Hotel or museum and hike to Khumjung village. With gaining 500m altitude we will have proper acclimatization.

Day 6: Namche Bazar –  Thame 

Elevation: 3.800m | Trek time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 9 km
Leave the main Everest trail and head northwest through quieter villages and yak pastures to the serene village of Thame, home of many famous Sherpas.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Thame

Spend another day at altitude. You can hike to the ridge above the village or visit Thame Monastery. A perfect way to build strength for the passes ahead and enjoy the beautiful views.

Day 8: Thame – Lunde

Elevation: 4.380m| Trek time: 4–5 hours | Distance: ~8 km
Follow the trail higher into remote terrain. Lunde is a small seasonal settlement, a good place to rest before Renjo La, the first of the three passes!

Day 9: Lunde – Renjo La Pass (5,360m) – Gokyo 

Elevation: 4.790m | Trek time: 7–8 hours | Distance: ~10 km
A big day! Today you are going to cross your first pass of the trekking. Renjo La offers one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Gokyo Lakes. Descend to the peaceful village of Gokyo.

Day 10: Rest Day at Gokyo 4.790m 
Optional hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for sunrise views of the Himalayan giants. Or just relax by the lake and soak in the mountain beauty.

Day 11:Gokyo – Dragnag 

Elevation: 4.700 | Trek time: 3–4 hours | Distance: ~4 km
Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier to reach Dragnag. The trail can be tricky, with shifting rock and ice, so take your time and trust the excellent guiding of the Sherpas.

Day 12: Dragnag – Cho La Pass (5,420m) – Dzongla

Elevation: 4.830m | Trek time: 7–8 hours | Distance: ~8 km
Your second pass is on the programm today. A challenging but rewarding hoke across the glaciated pass. Cho La involves scrambling and careful steps across maybe some icy sections before reaching Dzongla.

Day 13: Dzongla – Lobuche 

Elevation: 4.910m | Trek time: 4–5 hours | Distance: ~6 km
An easier trail today, with most beautiful views of Ama Dablam and the Khumbu Glacier. Arrive in Lobuche for a warm meal and rest.

Day 14: Lobuche – Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) – Gorakshep 

Elevation: 5.140m | Trek time: 7–8 hours | Distance: ~12 km In the morning we will hike to the highest mountain village in the Everest region; Gorakshep. Here we will have some tea or lunch. After we will follow the rocky trail along the glacier to reach Everest Base Camp. You now will stand at the start of where many people start their journey to the top of the world. Snap photos and soak in the atmosphere before returning to Gorakshep.

Day 15: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m), Return to Lobuche

Elevation: 4.910m | Trek time: 6–7 hours | Distance: ~10 km
Optional is an early morning ascent of Kala Patthar for unforgettable sunrise views of Everest. Then descend back to Lobuche.

Day 16: Lobuche – Kongma La Pass (5,535m) –  Dingboche 

Elevation: 4.410m | Trek time: 7–8 hours | Distance: ~10 km
Today it is time for the final and highest pass. The Kongma La, is wild and beautiful. Enjoy  your last time above the 5.000m and enjoy the amazing views. After crossing, descend to the fertile fields of Dingboche.

Day 17: Dingboche – Deboche (3,820m)

Elevation: 3.820m | Trek time: 5–6 hours | Distance: ~10 km
Walk through Pangboche and visit the ancient monastery. The easy trail will lead you back into greener, more forested valleys. 

Day 18: Deboche – Namche Bazaar

Elevation: 3.440m | Trek time: 5–6 hours | Distance: ~10 km
Retrace your steps to Namche. Enjoy a hot shower and maybe a piece of cake from the bakery! 

Day 19: Namche Bazar – Lukla

Trek time: 6–7 hours | Distance: ~18 km
Final trekking day. Cross back over familiar bridges and villages to reach Lukla. Enjoy your final hours of hiking through the Himalayas and the nice vibe of Lukla. In the evening it is time to celebrate with your whole team and say goodbye to the porters! Make sure you show your gratitude by tipping. 

Day 20: Fly back to Kathmandu
Say goodbye to the Khumbu as you fly to Kathmandu. Free afternoon to relax or shop for souvenirs. In the evening you will meet your guide one last time for farewell dinner and showing your gratitude to him. 

Please know that due to bad weather the flight can be delayed or cancelled. Make sure you have an extra day before you are departing back home. 

Day 21: Departure Day
Transfer to the airport for your flight home or next destination.

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Travel DETAILS

About the Accommodations

In Kathmandu, you will stay in a comfortable hotel with a private bathroom.

During the trek, you’ll spend the nights in trekking lodges, which are typically made of wood or natural stone and located in or near small villages. Accommodation is in private rooms (usually with two single beds) where you’ll sleep in your sleeping bag. The rooms are equipped with mattresses and pillows, and at higher altitudes, where it can freeze at night, extra blankets will be provided to cover your sleeping bag.

The facilities are basic and usually shared with other guests. Showers are often available for a fee, and if you’re lucky  they may even be warm.

In the dining area, you’ll find a heater powered by wood or yak dung. However, it’s advisable to bring warm clothing. A down jacket will come in handy.

Electricity is available for a fee, and Wi-Fi is often offered, although power outages or intermittent connectivity can occur. You can buy an Everest Link data package in Lukla or Namche for Wi-Fi in the lodges, which is a more cost-effective option than paying at each lodge individually.

Note: It is not always possible to pre-book a single room in the trekking lodges.

About the Meals

In Kathmandu, breakfast is included. For lunch and dinner, you’ll have the opportunity to explore charming local restaurants.

During the trek, meals are included, you can choose from the menu at each lodge. For breakfast, you can choose from options like pancakes or oatmeal. For lunch and dinner, you’ll find dishes such as Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, pasta, pizza, and much more. Meals are always served in the lodge where you’re staying.

You can fill your thermos with tea at a fee at most places for your journey, this fee is not included.

We recommend purifying tap water with purification tablets or iodine. Increasingly, you’ll also find shops where you can refill your water bottle with purified water (for a small fee).

Note: Bottled mineral water is available in many places, but we advise against purchasing it due to the significant plastic waste issue in Nepal.

Included
  • 3 hotel nights in Kathmandu including breakfast. Two upon arrival and one night after returning back after the trekking.
  • 11 nights in trekking lodges
  • All meals and tea during the trekking
  • Domestic return flight to Lukla
  • Entrance to Sagarmatha National Park and TIMS permit
  • Transfers according to the program
  • English-speaking Nepalese guide during the trek
  • Porters for luggage transport (up to 12 kg per person)
  • Trekking map (provided on site)
Not Included
  • International flights
  • Other meals and beverages
  • Entrance fees (if applicable)
  • Tips for local staff
  • Visa
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
About the Activities

You’ll be trekking on ancient, wide, yet rocky and sometimes steep footpaths, which are still the primary routes for local transportation. Along the way, you’ll often encounter carefully constructed stone steps, though the steps can be high and challenging for comfortable walking. The paths and stairs are frequently covered with animal droppings and can be quite dusty, especially during the dry trekking season. Be cautious on trails along steep rock faces to avoid falling rocks from above, and take care not to rush.

Occasionally, you’ll cross rivers via metal suspension bridges. These bridges can sway and may be over 20 meters high, but they are solidly built to Swiss standards.

The difficulty mainly comes from the days spent at high altitude, where the air is thin, and the terrain requires significant elevation gains and losses. The biggest challenge is preventing altitude sickness, which can be managed by acclimatizing slowly and drinking plenty of water. The itinerary we offer ensures proper acclimatization, so most trekkers have no issues with the altitude. It’s important to maintain a slow and steady pace, regardless of your fitness level. Take plenty of breaks, enjoy the views, and avoid rushing your ascent.

The rough mountain climate, with significant temperature variations and the possibility of strong winds, is also a factor to consider.

This is a challenging trek that requires excellent physical condition, experience with mountain hiking, and determination.

With your guide, the planned route can always be adjusted, especially in case of weather changes. Each day includes an estimated walking time and altitude gain. The total trek is about 150 km long, meaning the daily distance is not too large, but this is necessary given the high-altitude terrain.


Additional Days

This trip allows you to add extra rest days by staying two nights instead of one at certain locations. If you decide to extend your stay during the trek, additional costs will apply for the guide and porter.

You can also extend your time in Nepal by combining this trek with another adventure from our range of offerings. 

Special Insurance

When trekking in Nepal, it is essential to have travel insurance that includes helicopter evacuation as part of the policy coverage.

FAQ

The best seasons for trekking in Nepal are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and stunning views. Spring is known for blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides crisp air and excellent visibility. Winter and monsoon treks are possible in certain regions, but conditions can be challenging.

Yes, most trekking areas require permits. The main ones are:

  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card – Required for most treks.
  • National Park/Conservation Area Permits – Needed for regions like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang.
  • Restricted Area Permits – Required for treks in Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpo, among others.

When you book trekking with Sherpa Trekking Adventures the needed permits are always included. 

Trek difficulty varies:

  • Easy: Short treks like Poon Hill or Langtang Valley (4-7 days).
  • Moderate: Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit (10-16 days).
  • Challenging: High-altitude treks like Three Passes, Manaslu, or Mera Peak.
    Physical fitness is important, but previous trekking experience isn’t always required.

For us it is important that you will enjoy the trekking and feel safe. That’s why we can adjust your trekking to your level of fitness. 

While some treks can be done independently, hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insights. Porters can carry your heavy bags, allowing you to enjoy the trek with less strain. In restricted areas (like Upper Mustang or Manaslu), a guide is mandatory.

Beyond safety and convenience, hiring local guides and porters also helps support the local economy. Trekking tourism is a major source of income for many Nepali families, especially in remote areas. By choosing to trek with a guide and porter, you are directly contributing to their livelihood, ensuring they have a fair wage and sustainable employment. Many guides and porters have years of experience and valuable knowledge of the mountains, making your trek both safer and more enriching.

Packing depends on the trek and season, but essentials include:

  • Clothing: Layered clothing (base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof gear).
  • Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots.
  • Gear: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, headlamp, water purification tablets.
  • Health & Safety: First-aid kit, personal medications, sunscreen, sunglasses.

We always share a full packing list required for your trekking in advance.

To prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS):

  • Acclimatize properly (take rest days, especially above 3,000m).
  • Hydrate well (drink 3-4 liters of water daily).
  • Ascend slowly (don’t gain more than 500m in altitude per day above 3,000m).
  • Consider medication (Diamox can help, but consult a doctor).
  • Listen to your body (descend if symptoms worsen)

Note that preventing altitude sickness is not always possible. AMS is unpredictable condition even when you take all the necessary measures.

At Sherpa Trekking Adventures, we prioritize proper acclimatization because it is the best way to prevent altitude sickness. Our itineraries are carefully designed to allow your body to adjust naturally to higher elevations, reducing the risk of AMS.

Additionally, our guides are trained to detect early symptoms of altitude sickness and know exactly how to handle the situation. They monitor trekkers closely and will adjust the pace or itinerary if needed to ensure your safety. If symptoms become serious, they will arrange for immediate descent or evacuation if necessary. Your health and well-being in the mountains are always our top priority.

Most trekking routes offer teahouses (basic lodges with dormitory-style or private rooms).

Higher-end lodges are available in popular areas like Everest and Annapurna.

Camping is required for remote treks.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is essential. It should cover:

  • High-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m or more if climbing).
  • Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue).
  • Medical expenses and trip cancellations. 

Without the necessary insurance we can’t offer you our services.

  • Train in advance: Focus on cardio, leg strength, and endurance.
  • Practice hiking with a loaded backpack.
  • Break in your trekking boots to avoid blisters.
  • Research the trek and pack accordingly.