Everest Three Passes Trek Difficulties
The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging routes in the Everest region, involving long trekking days, high-altitude terrain, and three demanding mountain passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). Each pass requires steep ascents and descents, often on rocky, icy, or snow-covered trails. Trekkers must be prepared for daily hikes of 6 to 9 hours and fluctuating weather conditions. The high elevations increase the risk of altitude sickness, so we include proper acclimatization days and rest stops in key villages like Namche, Dingboche, and Gokyo. With strong physical fitness, mental endurance, and support from our experienced guides, this epic circuit trek is achievable—even for those aiming to push their limits.
AMS and Safety on the Everest Three Passes Trek
At Aarohi Holiday, your safety comes first—especially on a high-altitude challenge like the Everest Three Passes Trek. This trek involves crossing three mountain passes above 5,000 meters, making altitude acclimatization absolutely critical. Our experienced guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention, first aid, and emergency response, and they monitor each trekker closely for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), such as headache, nausea, or fatigue.
To reduce AMS risk, we follow a carefully planned itinerary with acclimatization days in key locations like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo. Our team prioritizes a slow, steady pace, ensuring your body adjusts naturally to the elevation. In case of any serious symptoms, we’re fully equipped to coordinate a safe descent or helicopter evacuation. With the right guidance and safety protocols, you can take on the Three Passes with confidence.
Travel Insurance for Everest Three Passes Trek
Aarohi Holiday strongly advises all trekkers to secure comprehensive travel and medical insurance before starting the Everest Three Passes Trek. This demanding high-altitude journey crosses three passes above 5,000 meters and ventures into remote areas where access to medical care is extremely limited.
Your insurance must specifically cover high-altitude trekking up to at least 5,600 meters and include emergency helicopter evacuation, medical expenses, accidents, and personal injury. We also recommend adding coverage for trip cancellations, delays, lost baggage, and other unforeseen events.
With reliable insurance and our experienced support team, you can focus on enjoying the adventure—knowing you’re fully protected throughout the trek.
Everest Three Passes Trek Itinerary
The Everest Three Passes Trek is the ultimate Himalayan adventure, combining the highlights of the Everest region with three dramatic high mountain passes. Your journey begins in Kathmandu with a cultural sightseeing day before a scenic flight to Lukla, the starting point of the trek. From there, you’ll hike through charming Sherpa villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar, gradually gaining altitude while taking in spectacular mountain views.
The route leads to Tengboche and Dingboche before heading to Chhukung, where you’ll cross the first pass—Kongma La (5,535m)—en route to Lobuche and Everest Base Camp. After visiting Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Everest, the adventure continues across the challenging Cho La Pass to Gokyo Valley, home to turquoise lakes and majestic scenery. After an acclimatization day, you’ll tackle the final Renjo La Pass and descend through remote villages like Lumde and Thame before returning to Namche and Lukla. A flight back to Kathmandu marks the end of this unforgettable circuit trek through the heart of the Khumbu.
Everest Three Passes Trek Cost
The cost of the Everest Three Passes Trek depends on the trekking season, group size, and service preferences. Our comprehensive 20-day package is priced at USD 1,990 per person, covering all essential services from your arrival in Kathmandu to the final departure. This includes guided trekking, domestic flights, accommodations, meals during the trek, permits, and more—ensuring a safe and seamless adventure across the three high passes.
This rate is based on solo travelers, but group discounts of 5% to 10% are available, and group leaders may join the trek free of cost. At Aarohi Holiday, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing with no hidden charges—just great value for one of Nepal’s most epic trekking experiences.
Important Notes for Everest Three Passes Trek
- In peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), Lukla flights operate from Ramechhap Airport, about 5–6 hours by road from Kathmandu. During the off-season, flights typically depart from Kathmandu Airport. Aarohi Holiday provides all required transfers, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to your trek.
- A scenic helicopter ride from Kathmandu to Lukla takes about 40–50 minutes and costs approximately USD 600 per person. It’s a fast and convenient option for trekkers who want to avoid flight delays or save time at the start of their Everest Three Passes Trek.
- This itinerary includes shared tourist bus transportation to Ramechhap. If you prefer a private jeep for added comfort and flexibility, let us know in advance—we’ll gladly arrange it and inform you of the additional cost.
- Each porter carries up to 20kg, shared between two trekkers. We recommend keeping your personal load under 10kg for comfort and efficiency. A duffle bag will be provided for your gear.
- All meals during the trek are included, but please note that hot showers and device charging at teahouses or lodges may incur extra charges, payable directly on the spot.
- Meals and entry fees for sightseeing in Kathmandu are not included in the trek package and are to be covered by the traveler.
- Drones are not permitted without prior government approval, which is difficult to obtain. Unless you’re a professional with time for paperwork, it’s best not to bring a drone on the trek.
Physical Fitness for Everest Three Passes Trek
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a physically demanding high-altitude adventure that requires excellent fitness and endurance. With multiple passes above 5,000 meters and long trekking days of 6 to 9 hours, you’ll face steep ascents, rugged terrain, and changing weather conditions. Preparing with regular cardio exercises such as hiking, running, cycling, or swimming, combined with strength training and stamina-building workouts, will greatly improve your trekking experience. With proper conditioning and the guidance of our expert team, most healthy and well-prepared trekkers can successfully complete this challenging yet rewarding journey.
Trekking Day for Everest Three Passes Trek
Each day on the Everest Three Passes Trek involves 6 to 9 hours of trekking through diverse and challenging terrain. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set out on trails that pass through traditional Sherpa villages, alpine forests, rugged mountain passes, and glacial landscapes. The route includes steep ascents and descents, often on rocky or snowy paths, with elevations reaching above 5,500 meters at the highest passes. Regular rest stops and a midday lunch break help maintain your energy as you soak in breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Your experienced guides ensure a steady pace to support acclimatization and safety throughout the trek.
Nepal Visa Entry Procedure
For entry into Nepal, there are visa requirements everyone (except Indian nationals) must complete before being allowed to pass through immigration. This is for air travel as well as overland transportation. Most visitors may obtain a visa to enter Nepal, however, there are exceptions. Three options are available for entry
Please have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry, and have cash ready, preferably in US dollars, though there are other currencies Nepal Immigration accepts. If you are entering via overland, you must have US cash and 3 passport photos. For arrival by air, the kiosks at the airport take your picture for you.
- 15-day single entry: US $30
- 30-day single entry: US $50
- 90-day multiple entries:US $125
For the most up to date list of exceptions for visa on arrival or to obtain the most current visa information, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website.
Arrival Instruction
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our company representatives are stationed to welcome you to the country. We request you to carefully look for your name being held by our representatives following the events upon landing. The representatives are responsible to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. You will see men offering you to carry luggage and take you to your destination as you exit the airport. We request you pay no attention to these people and follow the designated representatives and follow their instructions. You will also need to keep an eye on your luggage and belongings to avoid any complications.
