Everest Three Passes Trek – 19 Days

• Flight Distance: 138 km (86 miles)
• Flight Duration/ Trek Duration: 25-30 minutes / 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch &Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) & Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft)

The day begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla, one of the world's most dramatic and iconic airstrips, perched precariously in the mountains. As the plane cuts through the morning mist and rises above the hills, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas gradually come into view—a truly breathtaking sight. Upon landing, you will feel the crisp mountain air and sense the palpable excitement of trekkers beginning their journey. After meeting your porters and finalizing preparations, begin your trek with a gentle descent to Phakding.

The route to Phakding meanders through scenic landscapes of pine forests, suspension bridges, and picturesque Sherpa villages with mani walls and prayer wheels that spin in the wind. Along the way, enjoy views of the Dudh Koshi River and pass through tiny hamlets that offer a glimpse into rural mountain life. The trail is relatively easy and helps you ease into the rhythm of trekking. Upon arriving in Phakding, you will check into a comfortable teahouse, where you can enjoy hot tea and a hearty meal. Spend the evening by the fireplace, chatting with fellow trekkers or reading about the local culture and customs of the Khumbu region.

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m /11,283ft)

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Khumbu region as you follow the Dudh Koshi River upstream, crossing several thrilling suspension bridges draped with colorful prayer flags. The trail passes through charming villages like Tok Tok, Benkar, and Monjo, offering glimpses of terraced fields, pine forests, and distant snow-capped peaks. At Monjo, you will officially enter the Sagarmatha National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and complete the necessary permit checks before continuing onward.

As you ascend further, the landscape becomes more dramatic with the thundering river below and towering cliffs above. After crossing the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, the trail steepens sharply as it zigzags uphill through a dense forest. Despite the physical challenge, the reward is immense: on a clear day, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Finally, you’ll arrive at the bustling Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, the commercial and cultural hub of the Everest region. Nestled in a natural amphitheater, Namche offers modern comforts such as bakeries, internet cafes, and gear shops. Settle into a cozy lodge and take the evening to rest, explore the lively town, and acclimate to the higher altitude.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m /11,283ft)

Acclimatization is essential for a successful high-altitude trek, and Namche Bazaar provides the perfect place to adapt. Rather than staying idle, you’ll go on a short but steep hike to the Everest View Hotel—one of the highest hotels in the world—which offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the distinctive peak of Ama Dablam. This active rest helps your body adjust to the thinner air while rewarding you with stunning Himalayan vistas. Along the way, you may pass through the Syangboche airstrip and local Sherpa settlements that give insight into high-altitude life.

After the hike, return to Namche for a leisurely afternoon. You can visit the Sherpa Culture Museum to learn more about the history and traditions of the Sherpa people, or explore the well-stocked local market where traders from Tibet sometimes pass through. The town also features several bakeries and cafés where you can enjoy apple pie or a cappuccino while journaling your experiences. Take it easy this evening, staying hydrated and warm in your lodge. This vital day of rest and mild activity ensures that you are physically prepared for the challenging days ahead in the higher Himalayan terrain.

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Tengboche (3,870m /12,694ft)

The journey from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche is a scenic and spiritually uplifting one, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and visits to important cultural landmarks. The trail initially follows a relatively flat ridge with splendid views of Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku before descending into the Dudh Koshi Valley. You’ll pass through picturesque settlements such as Sanasa and Phunki Thenga, where you can stop for tea or lunch amidst the peaceful ambiance of the forested riverbank.

The final stretch is a steep uphill climb through pine and rhododendron forests, which come alive with color during the spring bloom. Emerging from the forest, you’ll reach the sacred village of Tengboche, home to the largest and most famous monastery in the Everest region. Tengboche Monastery, framed by the backdrop of Ama Dablam, is a serene place to witness afternoon prayers and soak in the spiritual essence of the mountains. Spend the night in a local teahouse, taking in the breathtaking scenery and feeling a deeper connection with the natural and cultural heritage of the Himalayas.

• Trek Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Dingboche (4,410m /14,470ft)

After a peaceful morning in Tengboche, continue your trek toward the windswept alpine village of Dingboche. The trail initially descends through forests of fir, juniper, and rhododendron as it crosses the Imja Khola River via a suspension bridge. Along the way, enjoy incredible views of the snow-dusted peaks of Kangtega and Ama Dablam, which loom dramatically above the valley. As you climb steadily, the tree line starts to fade, giving way to open terrain and the arid landscape characteristic of higher altitudes.

You will pass through Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the region and home to another important monastery. The final stretch of the trek leads through increasingly barren terrain until you reach the village of Dingboche, surrounded by stone-walled fields designed to protect crops from the strong Himalayan winds. Settle into your teahouse and spend the evening watching the golden hues of sunset reflect off the snow-clad peaks. Dingboche offers a unique mix of remoteness, serenity, and breathtaking views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and other Himalayan giants.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Dingboche (4,410m /14,470ft)

Today is another crucial acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the high altitude before you ascend higher. Instead of staying idle, you’ll embark on a short yet invigorating hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), a viewpoint located on a ridge above Dingboche. This steep ascent offers magnificent panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the valley below. The climb not only helps improve your acclimatization but also rewards you with a profound sense of the vastness and beauty of the Himalayas.

After spending time at the summit, descend back to Dingboche for a relaxed afternoon. Use this time to rehydrate, reorganize your gear, and interact with fellow trekkers. You might also engage with locals to learn about life in these high-altitude settlements, understanding their agricultural practices and Buddhist beliefs. As night falls, the starlit skies over the Himalayas create a mesmerizing view, and you can reflect on the journey ahead. The calm and stillness of Dingboche offers a perfect environment to mentally and physically prepare for the more demanding treks in the coming days.

• Trek Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Chhukung (4,730m /15,518ft)

The trail from Dingboche to Chhukung is relatively short but essential as you continue your gradual acclimatization process before crossing your first high pass. The route ascends gently through the Imja Valley, surrounded by glaciers and snowy peaks, with exceptional views of Island Peak and the southern face of Lhotse. You’ll walk along stone-walled fields and past yak pastures, with the air getting crisper and thinner as you gain altitude.

Arriving in Chhukung, a small settlement nestled among giant peaks, you’ll check into a teahouse and take the afternoon to rest or explore the surroundings. If you’re feeling strong, a short acclimatization hike to Chhukung Ri (5,550m) is highly recommended, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Imja Valley and toward Ama Dablam. In the evening, enjoy a warm meal while watching the sun set over the surrounding peaks. Rest well tonight, as the next day brings one of the trek’s major highlights—the Kongma La Pass.

• Trek Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
• Trek Duration: 8-9 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Kongma La Pass (5,535m /18,159ft)

Today is a challenging and rewarding day as you cross Kongma La, the first and highest of the three passes on this trek. Start early with a packed breakfast, as the climb is long and demanding. The route ascends through a steep and rugged trail filled with scree, ice, and boulders. The higher you go, the more awe-inspiring the views become, with majestic peaks like Makalu, Baruntse, and Lhotse towering above the horizon. Upon reaching the Kongma La summit, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, marking your achievement.

After enjoying the panoramic views, descend carefully through a glacial valley toward Lobuche. The descent can be slippery and requires caution, but the stark, icy beauty of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding landscape make it unforgettable. Upon reaching Lobuche, a popular stop for Everest Base Camp trekkers, check into your teahouse and relax. The town is a convergence point for multiple trekking routes, so you’ll likely meet adventurers from around the world sharing stories over hot meals.

• Trek Distance: 14.9 km (9.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Everest Base Camp (5,364m /17,598ft)

Today is a landmark moment of your journey as you visit Everest Base Camp, the launching point for summit expeditions. Start with a gradual ascent to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. The terrain is rocky and rugged, skirting the edge of the Khumbu Glacier with towering peaks rising on all sides. After checking in at your teahouse and a short rest, continue onward to Base Camp, weaving through a dramatic landscape of glacial moraines and ice formations.

Standing at Everest Base Camp, you’ll be surrounded by the highest mountains in the world. Though the peak of Everest is not visible from here, the atmosphere is electric with the presence of climbers preparing for their ascent and the sheer scale of the Khumbu Icefall. Take your time to soak in the energy and snap memorable photos with the iconic base camp rock. Return to Gorak Shep for the night, filled with a deep sense of accomplishment and wonder.

• Trek Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) & Dzongla (4,830/15,850ft)

Wake up early for the climb to Kala Patthar, the highest point many trekkers reach on the Everest trails. The pre-dawn hike is steep and cold, but the reward is extraordinary. From the summit, you’ll witness a jaw-dropping sunrise over Everest, with the entire Himalayan range bathed in golden light. The 360-degree panorama includes Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and Lingtren—all just a stone’s throw away.

After descending back to Gorak Shep and enjoying breakfast, continue your journey with a scenic trek to Dzongla. This lesser-trodden path leads you away from the main EBC route and into quieter terrain, passing glacial streams and dramatic cliffs. Upon reaching Dzongla, settle into your teahouse and enjoy views of the surrounding peaks, including Cholatse. This peaceful village is your gateway to the next great challenge—Cho La Pass.

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Cho La Pass (5,420m /17,782ft)

Today brings the thrilling challenge of crossing the icy Cho La Pass, a high-altitude route that demands physical stamina and focus. Begin early, ascending over rocky trails that eventually give way to snow and glacial ice. As you climb higher, the scenery becomes increasingly surreal, with glaciers shimmering under the rising sun. At the summit, a sea of peaks unfolds around you, offering a sense of immense scale and raw natural beauty.

The descent is steep and icy, so careful footing is essential. You’ll follow the glacial path toward Thagnak, a small and quiet settlement nestled beneath Cho Oyu. After such an intense day, the peacefulness of Thagnak is a welcome respite. Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest well, knowing you’ve conquered another of the three great passes of the Everest region.

• Trek Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Gokyo Ri (5,357m /17,575ft)

Gokyo Ri is another iconic viewpoint on the trek, and today, you’ll climb to its summit for some of the best panoramic views of the Himalayas. The climb begins early in the morning, as you head up a steep path from Gokyo village. The altitude will make the ascent challenging, but the views along the way are worth every step. As you gain altitude, you’ll be treated to increasingly breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. From the summit of Gokyo Ri, the view is one of the most stunning on the entire trek. You will see a panoramic sweep of the Himalayas, with Everest standing tall in the distance, flanked by other towering peaks, glaciers, and the shimmering Gokyo Lakes below.
After reaching the summit and soaking in the views, you will descend back to Gokyo village, where you will have the rest of the day to explore the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. The lakes are nestled in the valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and the serene atmosphere makes them a perfect place for reflection. You can take a leisurely walk around the lakes, capturing the beauty of the turquoise waters against the backdrop of the mountains. These lakes are an integral part of the region’s ecosystem, and their vivid colors make them a photographer’s dream.

The rest of the day is free to relax and recover. You can visit the surrounding areas, take in the landscape, or simply rest in the comfort of your lodge. Gokyo is one of the most peaceful and picturesque locations on the trek, and it offers an opportunity to reconnect with nature and appreciate the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. The day ends with a quiet evening, allowing you to prepare for the next leg of your journey, which will take you over the challenging Renjo La Pass and onward to Lungden.

• Trek Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Renjo La Pass (5,360m /17,585ft) & Lungden (4,380m/ 14,370ft)

Renjo La Pass is one of the most beautiful and remote passes on the Everest Three Passes Trek, and today you will face the challenge of crossing it. The day begins with a steep ascent from Gokyo, as you make your way towards the pass. The route is rocky and rugged, with snow-covered paths in some sections, and the altitude makes it even more demanding. As you climb, the views become increasingly spectacular, with towering peaks and glaciers surrounding you. When you finally reach the top of Renjo La, you will be rewarded with one of the most awe-inspiring vistas of the trek, with Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other peaks all visible from the summit.
The descent from Renjo La is equally challenging, as the path is steep and rocky. You will carefully make your way down, passing through valleys, and the landscape gradually changes from snowy peaks to more alpine terrain. The descent is long, but as you make your way into the valley, you’ll notice a more verdant landscape, with patches of grass and small shrubs. Lungden, your destination for the day, is a small village located at a lower altitude, where you can rest and recover from the challenges of the pass. Lungden offers a quiet, peaceful environment and serves as a great place to relax before continuing the trek toward Thame and beyond. You will spend the night here, reflecting on the stunning views and challenging terrain you’ve navigated today.

• Trek Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Altitude: Thame (3,820m /12,533ft)

The trek from Lungden to Thame is a relatively easier and more relaxed day compared to the previous days, but it still offers stunning scenery and a chance to experience the local Sherpa culture. The trail winds through beautiful valleys and passes small villages, where you will encounter traditional Sherpa homes and friendly locals. The route follows the path along the Bhote Koshi River, and the surrounding peaks continue to impress with their towering presence.
As you approach Thame, you’ll see the village perched on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Thamserku and Kongde Ri. Thame is known for its rich cultural history and is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region. Once you arrive in Thame, you will have the opportunity to explore the village and visit the Thame Monastery, which holds deep religious and cultural significance for the Sherpa people. The evening will be spent in the serene village, where you can relax and prepare for the final leg of your trek back to Namche Bazaar.

• Trek Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m /11,283ft)

Today, you’ll retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, where the trekking journey started to feel more familiar. The route from Thame to Namche is a moderate descent through lush forests, with occasional views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through small settlements and interact with the local Sherpa people, who are always welcoming and kind. As you approach Namche, you’ll begin to feel the excitement of nearing the end of your trek.
Namche Bazaar, a bustling market town, will be a familiar sight as you arrive. The town is lively and offers plenty of opportunities to shop for souvenirs or relax in a café. You’ll have the chance to reflect on your incredible journey through the Everest region and enjoy some well-earned rest. The evening in Namche will be a celebration of your accomplishments, and you can enjoy a delicious meal while reminiscing about the stunning vistas and unforgettable experiences of the past few weeks.

• Trek Distance: 17.9 km (11.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Altitude: Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft)

On the final day of the trek, you will make your way back to Lukla, where your journey began. This will be a long day of trekking, as you descend through beautiful forests, cross rivers, and pass through villages. The trail is relatively easy compared to the previous days, but it still offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As you approach Lukla, the excitement of completing the trek will grow.
Once you reach Lukla, you’ll have a sense of accomplishment and relief. You will spend the night in a comfortable lodge, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. This will be the perfect time to celebrate your achievements with fellow trekkers and the local Sherpa guides and porters who made your adventure possible. The next morning, you will take the flight back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your extraordinary Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo.

• Flight Distance: 138 km (86 miles)
• Flight Duration: 25-30 minutes
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400m/ 4,600ft)

The final leg of your Everest Three Passes Trek involves an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The flight is short but spectacular, offering a last glimpse of the Himalayan peaks you’ve spent the past few weeks trekking around. The plane navigates through the deep valleys and narrow air corridors, offering an aerial view of the rugged landscapes you’ve traversed on foot. The weather in the morning is often clearer, providing beautiful views of the mountains one last time. As you fly out of Lukla, you’ll be able to spot Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other peaks in the distance, and the memories of the trek will flood your mind.
Upon landing in Kathmandu, the bustling capital city will feel like a world away from the remote mountain villages you’ve just left behind. You’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and take a well-deserved break after the physical and mental challenges of the trek. After some rest, you may want to spend the afternoon exploring Kathmandu’s cultural landmarks, such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, or the ancient Boudhanath Stupa. It’s a good time to reflect on your journey, shop for souvenirs, or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The evening can be spent enjoying a celebratory dinner, sharing stories of your adventure with fellow trekkers, and savoring Nepali cuisine.

• Drive Duration: 30-45 minutes
• Meal: Breakfast
• Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400m/ 4,600ft)

On the final day of your trip, you will have some free time to relax or do any last-minute shopping in Kathmandu before heading to the airport for your flight home. If you have extra time, you can take a guided city tour or visit local markets and artisans to pick up souvenirs from your adventure. Kathmandu offers a wealth of cultural experiences, and this day provides a chance to soak in its rich history and vibrant energy one last time.
As you prepare to depart, you will reflect on the incredible trek you’ve completed, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the amazing views you’ve witnessed. The journey to Everest Base Camp and across the Three Passes will undoubtedly remain one of the most significant experiences of your life. The memories of the mountains, the people you met along the way, and the sense of accomplishment you feel will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. You’ll leave Kathmandu with a heart full of memories, knowing that you’ve conquered one of the most remarkable trekking circuits in the world. After your flight departs, you will begin your journey home, already thinking about your next adventure in the Himalayas or beyond.