Everest Three Passes Trek
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Experience the ultimate Himalayan adventure on the Gokyo Lake – Everest Base Camp Trek via Chola Pass, an epic journey in Everest Three Passes Trek that masterfully combines the legendary Everest Base Camp trek with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Gokyo Lakes. This route not only offers the iconic Everest Base Camp trekking experience but also treats trekkers to panoramic views from Gokyo Ri, which many consider even more spectacular and serene than the famous Kala Patthar viewpoint.
Beginning your Everest Three Passes Trek from the mountain airstrip of Lukla, the trail gently ascends through traditional Sherpa villages like Thame and Lungden, where you can experience authentic Himalayan culture and hospitality. As you continue, you’ll cross the stunning Renjo La Pass at 5,345 meters, entering the pristine Gokyo Valley, renowned for its series of tranquil turquoise lakes nestled among towering snow-capped peaks. The serene beauty of this high-altitude lake region provides a peaceful contrast to the demanding nature of the trek.
From Gokyo, the journey intensifies as you traverse the rugged and exhilarating Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. This challenging crossing leads you toward Lobuche and ultimately the iconic Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters, situated at the foot of the world’s highest mountain. Standing here, surrounded by towering glaciers and icefalls, is a humbling and unforgettable experience for any trekker.
The trek continues with the final crossing of the Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters, which takes you down into Chhukung and Dingboche, where you reconnect with the main Everest trail leading back to Namche Bazaar. This circular route not only tests your physical endurance but also offers deep spiritual rewards, making it an ideal challenge for seasoned trekkers seeking a true high-altitude Himalayan adventure.
While the Everest Three Passes Trek is not technically difficult in terms of climbing skills, it is important to note that all three passes rise above 5,000 meters. Proper acclimatization, good physical fitness, and careful preparation are crucial to fully enjoy and safely complete this journey. Along the way, trekkers are treated to unforgettable panoramic views of iconic peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam, which together create a spectacular Himalayan skyline.
More than just a physical challenge, this trek offers a profound immersion into the heart of Sherpa culture and Buddhist heritage, with many opportunities to visit ancient monasteries, interact with local communities, and gain insight into the spiritual traditions that shape life in this remarkable region.
If you are searching for the most complete and adventurous trek in the Everest region, this route is unparalleled. It combines physical endurance, natural grandeur, cultural richness, and remote solitude into a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience that will leave lasting memories and a deep connection to the mountains.
Tour Amenities
Your Nepal trekking journey begins! Our representative welcomes you at Tribhuvan International Airport with a nameplate and transfers you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Prepare for your Everest base camp trek and relax in the heart of Nepal’s vibrant capital.
A day for last-minute gear checks and shopping in Thamel. Alternatively, enjoy a sightseeing tour of iconic spots like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the famous Monkey Temple. A perfect cultural warm-up before heading to the Himalayan base camp region.
A thrilling 35-minute flight brings you to Lukla, the gateway to the EBC trek Nepal. After lunch, begin your trek. Descend to Phakding and then ascend gradually through pine forests to Monjo, a charming village near the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park.
Ascend through forests and over suspension bridges above the Dudh Kosi River. Enter Sagarmatha National Park and climb steeply to reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital and a key hub on the Everest base trek.
An essential rest day to avoid AMS. Short hikes to Khumjung, Syangboche Monastery, or Everest View Hotel help with acclimatization. Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse—this is where your Himalayan base camp trekking spirit truly awakens.
Follow the classic Everest Base Camp trail, with panoramic views of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. Reach Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region—famous for its serene mountain setting and views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
Continue deeper into the Khumbu region, passing beautiful forests and chortens. Cross the Imja Khola River and stay overnight in Orsho, a peaceful stop en route to Dingboche.
A gentle ascent to Dingboche, known for its spectacular views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and Makalu in the distance. This village lies in the shadow of the Himalayan giants, perfect for trekkers heading towards EBC or Kongma La Pass.
Short and scenic walk to Chhukung, a staging point for Island Peak and Kongma La Pass. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the next day’s high-altitude challenge.
Start early to cross the Kongma La Pass, one of the highest and most rewarding trekking trails in Nepal. The ascent offers views of Makalu and glacial lakes. After crossing the Khumbu Glacier, descend to Lobuche.
A shorter hike brings you to Gorakshep, the last village before Everest Base Camp. This arid but magical place sits right below the Khumbu Icefall.
Optional early morning hike to Kala Patthar for iconic sunrise views of Mount Everest or visit Everest Base Camp, the dream destination for every adventure seeker in Nepal. Return to Gorakshep for overnight.
Retrace your steps from Gorakshep back to Lobuche, descending 230m. Enjoy a more relaxed day as you transition from EBC to Gokyo region.
Continue toward Cho La Pass by reaching Dzongla, a perfect spot for stunning sunset views and early start next morning.
Start early for the Cho La Pass crossing—icy trails, prayer flags, and dramatic views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks. Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier to reach Gokyo Lakes, a highlight of Gokyo Valley trekking.
A well-deserved break. Explore the 5 pristine Gokyo Lakes, stroll along their shores, or just soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this Himalayan jewel.
One of the best panoramic passes in Nepal trekking, Renjo La offers views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and the Gokyo Lakes below. Descend to Lumde, completing the Three Passes Trek circuit.
Follow ancient Tibetan trade routes down to Thame, a remote Sherpa village with one of the oldest monasteries in the region.
Return to Namche Bazaar, the familiar vibrant town where you can relax and reflect on your unforgettable EBC and Gokyo trek Nepal experience.
A final day of trekking through the lush forests and rivers of the Everest base camp trail. Overnight in Lukla, where the trek concludes.
Fly back to Kathmandu, with stunning aerial views of the Himalayan base camp region one last time. Transfer to your hotel for rest.
A buffer day in case of flight delays from Lukla. Relax, shop, or explore more of Nepal’s capital.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Your Nepal adventure concludes, but the memories of this incredible journey will last forever.
