Everest Three Passes Trek

Upon arriving in Kathmandu (1,400 m), you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day resting or exploring Thamel before attending a pre-trek briefing and enjoying a welcome dinner.

After the morning meal, you will transfer to explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and receive your trek briefing for the Everest adventure.

Pashupatinath Temple: Sitting peacefully by the Bagmati River. Pashupatinath is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It attracts numerous devotees, especially during the Maha Shivaratri festival. The complex features stunning pagoda roofs, sacred statues, and riverfront cremation sites, reflecting deep spiritual traditions and vibrant religious ceremonies year-round.

Boudhanath: Boudhanath Stupa, with its colossal white dome and all-seeing Buddha eyes, stands as a powerful symbol of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Pilgrims from around the globe circumambulate the stupa, chanting prayers. The surrounding area buzzes with colorful monasteries, souvenir shops, and cozy cafes, offering a serene space for meditation and reflection.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square is a rich repository of history, showcasing centuries-old palaces, temples, and intricately carved wooden structures. This lively square was the royal seat of Nepal’s kings and remains a vibrant cultural center. Visitors experience the rich Newari heritage, bustling markets, and traditional festivals set against a backdrop of timeless architecture.

After completing sightseeing, you will transfer to the hotel for a briefing about the trek. You can also visit the Thamel area for trekking preparation.

Your journey kicks off with an exhilarating dawn flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a mountain town nestled at an altitude of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet), marking the gateway to the Everest region. The short 30- to 40-minute flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys below. Upon landing at Lukla Airport, you’ll meet your trekking team and prepare for the first day on the trail.

From Lukla, the trek to Phakding is a gentle descent through rhododendron forests and charming Sherpa villages. Along the way, you cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, immersing yourself in the beautiful landscape. You’ll arrive at Phakding in the afternoon to rest and acclimatize for the days ahead.

The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar begins with a scenic walk along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges that offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The trail gradually ascends through pine and rhododendron forests, passing small Sherpa villages where you can experience local culture and hospitality.

As you approach Namche Bazar, the path steepens, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas of Everest and other Himalayan giants. Namche, the bustling Sherpa trading hub at 3,440 meters (11,286 feet), welcomes trekkers with vibrant markets, cozy teahouses, and stunning panoramic views, making it the perfect place to rest and acclimatize.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization in Namche Bazar to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. While it’s a rest day, you’ll stay active with a short hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m / 12,730 ft), offering one of the first clear views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail winds past the Syangboche airstrip and several quaint Sherpa villages.

After the hike, return to Namche Bazar and spend the afternoon exploring its lively markets, bakeries, museums, and monasteries. This vibrant mountain town offers a perfect mix of cultural insight and Himalayan charm, helping you recover and prepare for the journey ahead.

Leaving Namche Bazar, the trail contours along the hillside, offering magnificent views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. You’ll trek through rhododendron forests and pass several chortens, mani walls, and small villages. The path descends steeply to the Dudh Koshi River at Phungi Thenga, a great spot to rest and enjoy lunch.

After crossing the river, a steady uphill climb through pine and fir forests leads to the spiritual heart of the Khumbu, Tengboche. At 3,860 meters (12,664 feet), it’s home to the region’s largest monastery, Tengboche Monastery, where you can witness evening prayers amidst a breathtaking Himalayan backdrop.

The trail descends through forests of birch and rhododendron, passing the charming village of Debuche. You’ll cross the Imja Khola River via a suspension bridge and climb steadily toward Pangboche, one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the region. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam towering above.

After leaving Pangboche, the path climbs gradually into open highlands, offering sweeping views and a sense of true altitude. As you approach Dingboche, the valley opens up dramatically, revealing expansive views of the Imja Valley and surrounding peaks. At an elevation of 4,410 meters (14,464 feet), Dingboche serves as a key stop for rest and altitude adjustment.

Today is a vital acclimatization day in Dingboche to prepare for higher elevations ahead. Instead of resting entirely, you'll take a short but steep hike to Nangkartshang Peak (4,700 m / 15,420 ft). The route offers magnificent views of Makalu, Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. This active acclimatization helps your body adjust to the altitude safely.

After descending, you'll return to Dingboche, a windswept village nestled in a broad valley surrounded by towering peaks. Spend the afternoon exploring local teahouses, relaxing, or observing high-altitude farming. This slower pace supports recovery while maintaining your physical readiness for the trek ahead.

The journey from Dingboche takes you up through vast alpine fields dotted with vivid wildflowers and edged by mani stone walls. You’ll pass traditional Sherpa farms and yak grazing areas, enjoying clear views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks. The peaceful landscape provides a refreshing contrast to the earlier forested trails.

As you approach Chhukung at 4,730 meters (15,518 feet), the terrain becomes rockier, framed by towering peaks and glaciers. Chhukung is a small, charming village that serves as a popular base for climbers aiming for Island Peak. Here, you can rest and prepare for acclimatization or further trekking adventures.

Today is one of the most demanding yet rewarding days of the trek as you cross the high Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters. Departing Chhukung before sunrise, your headlamp lights the rugged trail through a dramatic landscape of ice, rock, and hidden glacial lakes.The uphill trek is challenging, but the morning light unveils stunning Himalayan peaks, including the towering Makalu.

At the summit, take in breathtaking 360-degree panoramas before beginning the challenging descent. The trail winds down across glacial debris and rocky terrain toward Lobuche (4,910 m). Upon arrival, relax in a warm teahouse, grateful for a day of true Himalayan adventure.

Departing from Lobuche, the trail skirts the Khumbu Glacier, offering striking views of towering peaks and icy formations. The path climbs gradually over rocky ground and glacial moraines, eventually reaching Gorak Shep (5,164 m). After a short rest and lunch, you continue your trek toward the iconic Everest Base Camp.

The hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) is thrilling, offering close-up views of the Khumbu Icefall and towering peaks like Nuptse and Pumori. Soak in the moment, take photos, and return to Gorak Shep for the night, proud of reaching this legendary destination.

Rise early for the pre-dawn climb to Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), the best vantage point for a panoramic sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. The steep one- to two-hour ascent rewards you with golden morning light illuminating the world’s highest peaks, an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, begin your trek toward Dzongla (4,830 m / 15,846 ft). The trail winds through glacial valleys and rugged terrain, passing quiet alpine landscapes beneath soaring cliffs. Arriving in the peaceful village of Dzongla, you’ll rest and prepare for the upcoming Cho La Pass crossing.

Set off from Dzongla towards the formidable Cho La Pass (5,420 m / 17,782 ft). The climb starts with a steep, rocky ascent that soon gives way to a glacier-covered trail. Crampons may be needed as you navigate icy sections. At the summit, you're rewarded with stunning views of towering peaks and the pristine Cho La Glacier.

Descending carefully, the trail winds down into the remote and dramatic Thagnak Valley, a hidden gem surrounded by rugged cliffs and moraine walls. After several hours, arrive in Thagnak (4,700 m / 15,420 ft) to rest and recover amid the serene Himalayan wilderness.

Leaving Thagnak, the trail descends gently along the Dudh Koshi River, passing through rocky valleys and scattered yak pastures. The path meanders across streams and moraine ridges, offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The landscape here is vast and rugged, with clear skies revealing distant summits.

As you approach Gokyo, the trail climbs slightly to the peaceful village nestled beside the turquoise waters of Gokyo Lake at 4,790 meters (15,715 feet). Gokyo is a tranquil settlement famous for its stunning lakes and spectacular views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and other giants, perfect for rest and exploration.

Start your day with an early morning climb to Gokyo Ri Peak (5,360 m / 17,585 ft), a steep but rewarding hike. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, as well as the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes below. The sunrise from here is truly breathtaking, offering unforgettable Himalayan vistas.

Upon descending, dedicate time to visiting the quiet Gokyo Lakes and village. Wander along the shores of the pristine lakes, visit local monasteries, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this remote mountain sanctuary before continuing your trek.

Begin early with a challenging ascent to Renjo La Pass (5,360 m / 17,585 ft), one of the highest passes on the trek. The climb is steep but rewarding, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The stark, alpine landscape and crisp mountain air make the effort unforgettable.

After crossing the pass, descend into the remote valley leading to Lungden (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). This quiet Sherpa village offers traditional stone houses and yak pastures, providing a peaceful setting to rest and acclimatize amid stunning mountain scenery.

The descent from Lungden passes through quiet highlands with stone fences, roaming yaks, and sporadic chortens. You'll follow the Bhote Koshi River, passing small settlements like Marlung and Thame, one of the oldest and most culturally rich Sherpa villages. Enjoy breathtaking sights of towering snowy mountains and traditional Buddhist monasteries as you walk.

As you continue your descent, the landscape gradually shifts from alpine to forested terrain. The final stretch into Namche Bazaar feels familiar and welcoming. Upon arrival, you can relax in the comfort of lodges, visit local bakeries, and reflect on your incredible journey through the high Himalayas.

The final trekking day begins with a long descent from Namche Bazaar, retracing your steps along the Dudh Koshi River. You'll cross several suspension bridges, pass familiar villages like Monjo and Phakding, and walk through pine and rhododendron forests. The trail is scenic but can be hard on the knees due to steep downhill sections.

After several hours of trekking, you'll arrive back in Lukla, where your Everest adventure began. Take time to celebrate with your trekking team, enjoy a hearty meal, and reflect on your accomplishments. This final evening in Lukla marks the perfect close to a remarkable journey.

Wake up early for your scenic mountain flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Weather permitting, the short 30–35 minute flight offers breathtaking final views of the snow-capped Himalayas, deep valleys, and terraced hills as you bid farewell to the Khumbu region. It's a fitting end to your unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can finally relax, refresh, and enjoy the comforts of city life. Use the rest of the day to explore local markets, visit a spa, or enjoy a celebratory meal reflecting on your incredible Everest trekking experience.

Enjoy one last morning in Kathmandu before departing for the airport. With your trek complete, you’ll leave Nepal carrying cherished experiences, mountain memories, and a deep connection to this extraordinary Himalayan land.