Everest Three Passes Trek

Welcome to Nepal! Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will proceed to the immigration area to obtain your visa on arrival. Here's a quick overview of the visa process:

Visa on Arrival: Available at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) and major land borders. To obtain your visa:

Fill out an arrival card at the immigration counter. Submit your passport (valid for at least 6 months), and a recent passport-size photo, and pay the visa fee:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days: USD 125

You can also apply for a visa online up to 15 days before arrival by visiting the Nepal Immigration website to speed up the process. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa at Nepalese embassies abroad before your trip.

Visa Extensions: You can extend your visa at immigration offices in Nepal. Extension fees start at USD 45 for an additional 15 days.

Once you’ve completed the visa process, proceed to the security checkpoint to have your belongings scanned. Afterward, you’ll head to the luggage collection area to retrieve your bags.

When you exit the luggage area, you’ll move toward the arrival hall. As you step outside the terminal, you’ll see a designated area where people gather to greet arriving passengers. Look for a sign with your name or the Luxury Holidays Nepal board just outside the exit gate. Our team will be there, ready to welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Once picked up, you will be driven to your hotel in Thamel, the bustling tourist hub of Kathmandu. You'll check into a comfortable 3-star hotel (upgrades to 4-star or 5-star hotels are available). After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the local area at your leisure.

Step 1: Early Morning Transfer to the Airport

• Early in the morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel and driven to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight to Lukla.
• The flight departs early to avoid weather-related delays, which are common in the Lukla region.

Step 2: Scenic Flight to Lukla (2,860m) – 30-40 minutes

• Board a small aircraft (typically a twin-otter plane) for a scenic 30-40 minute flight to Lukla.
• Enjoy stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks, as well as the dramatic landscape of terraced hills and valleys.
• Upon landing at the Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla (one of the world's most famous mountain airports), you will meet your trekking guide and porters.

Step 3: Trek Briefing and Gear Check in Lukla

• After disembarking, you’ll have a brief rest at a teahouse in Lukla, where you can refresh, adjust your gear, and get a final briefing from your guide before starting the trek.
• Ensure your daypack contains essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and personal items for the day's trek.

Step 4: Begin Trek to Phakding (2,610m) – 3-4 hours

• The trek from Lukla to Phakding is relatively gentle, with a gradual descent along the trail that passes through small villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests.
• You'll follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges along the way.
• The trail offers the first glimpse of local Sherpa culture, and you will pass several prayer stones, stupas, and mani walls.

Step 5: Arrive in Phakding (2,610m)

• After about 3-4 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Phakding, a charming village situated on the banks of the Dudh Koshi River.
• Check into your guesthouse and relax after the trek.
• You’ll have time to explore the village, take in the peaceful surroundings, or rest at your teahouse before dinner.

Step 6: Overnight in Phakding

• Enjoy dinner at the guesthouse and relax for the night. Phakding is at a lower altitude than Lukla, which helps with acclimatization before the trek to Namche Bazaar the next day.
• Overnight stay at the best available guest house

On this day, you’ll trek from Phakding (2,610m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), a journey of 5-6 hours. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags, and passes through small villages like Monjo and Jorsalle. After entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, the path becomes steeper as you ascend through pine forests with occasional glimpses of Mount Everest. The final stretch is a challenging uphill climb to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital and gateway to the Everest region. You’ll settle into a guesthouse and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this famous mountain town.

You’ll spend the day in Namche Bazaar (3,438m) for rest and acclimatization. This is crucial to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness as you ascend further. You can explore the lively town, visit the local market, and immerse yourself in the Sherpa culture. For those feeling energetic, a short hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m) is a great option, offering spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. You can also visit the Sherpa Museum or the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Centre to learn more about the region’s history and culture. This acclimatization day will prepare you for the higher altitudes ahead.

You’ll trek from Namche Bazaar (3,438m) to Tengboche (3,870m), a journey of 5-6 hours. The trail starts with a relatively easy walk, offering incredible views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as you traverse along the ridge. You’ll pass through small villages like Kyangjuma and Phungi Thenga, where you’ll descend to the Dudh Koshi River before beginning a steep ascent through rhododendron forests. The final climb leads to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in the Everest region. Upon arrival, you can explore the monastery and enjoy the serene surroundings with spectacular mountain views.

You’ll trek from Tengboche (3,867m) to Dingboche (4,360m), a journey of 5-6 hours. The trail begins with a descent through forests of rhododendrons and juniper, crossing the Imja Khola River via a suspension bridge near Pangboche, the highest year-round settlement in the region. As you trek, you’ll pass through the picturesque villages of Deboche and Shomare, with stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak along the way. The trail gradually climbs higher, leading to the wide-open valley of Dingboche, where the landscape becomes more barren and the altitude more noticeable. Dingboche is a beautiful spot for acclimatization, with fields surrounded by stone walls to protect crops from the cold winds. You’ll rest at a local guesthouse, preparing for the higher altitudes ahead.

You’ll spend a valuable acclimatization day in Dingboche (4,360m) to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. While it’s a rest day, light activity is recommended to aid acclimatization. You can take a short hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), which offers incredible panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding peaks. The hike provides a gradual altitude gain, helping your body adjust without overexertion. Alternatively, you can explore the village of Dingboche, surrounded by fields enclosed by stone walls, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Imja Valley. This day of rest and gentle hiking is crucial for preparing you for the upcoming challenges of the trek.

Step 1: Morning Start in Dingboche (4,360m)

• Begin your day with breakfast at your guesthouse in Dingboche.
• After preparing your gear for the day, you’ll leave Dingboche and head toward Chukhung, following the valley.

Step 2: Trek to Chukhung (4,730m) – 3 hours

• The trek from Dingboche to Chukhung is a gradual ascent through a wide, open valley with stunning views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak.
• The trail passes through alpine meadows and stone-walled fields, providing a scenic and peaceful walk.
• After about 3 hours, you’ll reach Chukhung, a small settlement with a few guesthouses, and take a short rest before continuing your climb.

Step 3: Start the Climb to Chukhung Ri (5,546m) – 3-4 hours

• After a brief rest, begin the ascent to Chukhung Ri, a steep but rewarding climb.
• The trail is rocky and involves a sharp elevation gain, so it’s important to pace yourself.
• As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Baruntse.

Step 4: Reaching the Summit of Chukhung Ri (5,546m)

• After a challenging climb of 3-4 hours, you’ll reach the summit of Chukhung Ri, offering some of the best views in the region.
• From the top, you can see the towering peaks of the Himalayas, with Ama Dablam and Makalu dominating the skyline.
• Take time to rest, capture photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views before descending.

Step 5: Descend Back to Chukhung (4,730m) – 2-3 hours

• After spending time at the summit, begin your descent back to Chukhung.
• The descent is faster but still requires caution, especially on the steep sections.
• Once back in Chukhung, you’ll settle into a guesthouse for the night and rest after a strenuous but rewarding day.

Step 6: Overnight in Chukhung

• Enjoy dinner at your guesthouse and relax for the night, preparing for the next day’s trek.
• Chukhung is an ideal spot for acclimatization, with great views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Step 1: Early Morning Departure from Chukhung (4,730m)

• Start your day early with breakfast in Chukhung to ensure you have enough daylight to cross the challenging Kongma La Pass.
• Pack plenty of water and snacks for the long, strenuous day ahead.

Step 2: Begin the Trek to Kongma La Pass (5,535m)

• The trail starts with a steady ascent as you leave Chukhung and head toward the Kongma La Pass, one of the highest and most demanding passes in the Everest region.
• The path is steep and rocky, passing through a desolate landscape of glacial moraines and alpine meadows.

Step 3: Reaching the Kongma La Pass (5,535m) – 4-5 hours

• After a tough climb, you’ll reach the top of the Kongma La Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the vast Khumbu Glacier.
• Take some time at the top to rest, take photos, and enjoy the awe-inspiring mountain vistas before beginning the descent.

Step 4: Descend from Kongma La Pass

• The descent from the pass is steep and requires careful attention, as the path can be slippery and rocky.
• You’ll pass through the Khumbu Glacier and its surrounding rocky terrain, where the landscape is marked by glacial lakes and moraines.

Step 5: Trek to Lobuche (4,940m) – 2-3 hours

• After descending from Kongma La, the trail gradually levels out as you approach Lobuche.
• The route follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
• Upon arrival in Lobuche, you’ll check into your guesthouse, rest, and enjoy dinner after a long, challenging day.

Step 6: Overnight in Lobuche (4,940m)

• Settle into your guesthouse and rest for the night in Lobuche, a small village that serves as a key stop for trekkers heading toward Everest Base Camp.

Step 1: Early Morning Departure from Lobuche (4,940m)

• Start the day with breakfast at your guesthouse in Lobuche and prepare for the trek to Gorak Shep.
• Today is one of the most anticipated days, as you will visit Everest Base Camp.

Step 2: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,164m) – 3-4 hours

• The trail begins with a gradual ascent along the rocky moraine of the Khumbu Glacier.
• You will trek through rough terrain with incredible views of Mount Pumori, Everest, and Nuptse.
• The path becomes more challenging with glacial debris and boulders as you approach Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp.
• After about 3-4 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Gorak Shep where you will check into a guesthouse, have a rest, and enjoy lunch before continuing to Everest Base Camp.

Step 3: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) – 2-3 hours round trip

• After lunch, begin the exciting trek to Everest Base Camp.
• The trail follows the rocky and icy terrain along the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, with awe-inspiring views of Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks.
• After about 1.5-2 hours, you’ll reach Everest Base Camp, where climbers prepare for their summit attempts. Although you won’t see the summit of Everest from base camp, the atmosphere is electric with excitement.
• Spend some time at the base camp to soak in the views, take photos, and celebrate reaching this iconic destination.

Step 4: Return to Gorak Shep (5,164m) – 1-1.5 hours

• After spending time at Everest Base Camp, you’ll retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep.
• The return journey takes about 1-1.5 hours, and once back, you can rest and relax at your guesthouse after a long day.

Step 5: Overnight in Gorak Shep

• Enjoy dinner at your guesthouse and rest for the night in Gorak Shep, preparing for the early morning climb to Kala Patthar the following day.

Step 1: Early Morning Ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545m) – 2-3 hours

• Start the day before dawn to make the most of the incredible sunrise views from Kala Patthar.
• The trek to Kala Patthar is steep and challenging, with a rocky ascent, but it's worth it for the spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
• After about 2-3 hours of trekking, you’ll reach the summit of Kala Patthar (5,545m), which offers the best close-up view of Mount Everest.
• Take time to enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayas, capture photos, and soak in the awe-inspiring views.

Step 2: Descend Back to Gorak Shep (5,164m) – 1-1.5 hours

• After spending some time at the summit, begin your descent back to Gorak Shep.
• The descent is quicker and takes about 1-1.5 hours.
• Once back in Gorak Shep, take a short rest and enjoy breakfast at the guesthouse.

Step 3: Trek from Gorak Shep to Lobuche (4,940m) – 3-4 hours

• After breakfast and some rest, you’ll start your return trek to Lobuche.
• Retrace your steps along the rocky moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, passing familiar terrain.
• The trek back to Lobuche takes about 3-4 hours, and although it's a descent, it still requires energy after the early morning climb.

Step 4: Arrive in Lobuche

• Upon reaching Lobuche, check into your guesthouse and take some time to rest after a long and physically demanding day.
• Enjoy a warm meal and reflect on the day’s incredible achievements, including reaching Kala Patthar.

Step 5: Overnight in Lobuche

• Rest for the night at your guesthouse in Lobuche, preparing for the next day’s journey toward Dzongla.

You’ll trek from Lobuche (4,940m) to Dzongla (4,830m), a relatively short but scenic journey of 3-4 hours. The trail gently descends and then gradually ascends through a rugged landscape along the Khumbu Glacier, offering stunning views of peaks like Awi Peak and Cholatse. As you move away from the busier routes, the path becomes quieter, winding through grassy meadows and rocky terrains. Upon arrival in Dzongla, a peaceful stop with a few cozy teahouses, you can relax and soak in the panoramic mountain views, preparing for the challenging Cho La Pass crossing the next day. This shorter trek allows you to acclimatize while enjoying a serene evening in Dzongla.

Note: The trek from Lobuche to Cho La Pass typically covers a distance of around 8-10 kilometers (5-6 miles) and takes about 5-6 hours to reach the pass, depending on weather and individual pace. The path is challenging, with rocky, steep ascents and glacier sections, making it a strenuous part of the journey. After crossing Cho La Pass (5,420m/17,783ft), the trek continues with a descent toward Thangnak and eventually Gokyo

Step 1: Early Morning Departure from Dzongla (4,830m)

• Start the day early to ensure ample time to cross the Cho La Pass before afternoon winds or weather changes.
• Have a hearty breakfast and pack extra snacks, as it’s a long and demanding day.

Step 2: Begin the Ascent to Cho La Pass (5,420m)

• The trek begins with a steep, rocky ascent, moving across rugged terrain with boulders and scree.
• The trail requires careful navigation and pacing as you approach the icy path leading to the pass.

Step 3: Cross the Glacier and Ice Fields

• After the initial climb, you’ll encounter a small glacier before reaching Cho La Pass. Use caution as the ice can be slippery.
• Crampons may be helpful if the ice is hard-packed or if conditions are particularly cold and icy.

Step 4: Reaching Cho La Pass (5,420m)

• After a challenging ascent of 3-4 hours, you’ll reach the top of Cho La Pass.
• Take some time to rest, capture photos, and appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lobuche, and the surrounding peaks.

Step 5: Descend from Cho La Pass to Thangnak (4,700m)

• Begin the descent from the pass, which is steep and requires careful attention, especially in icy sections.
• After the steep descent, the trail becomes less challenging as you make your way to Thangnak, a small village where you can take a rest.

Step 6: Continue Trek to Gokyo (4,800m) – 2-3 hours

• After resting in Thangnak, continue on the trail to Gokyo, passing along the glacial moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier.
• The final stretch offers views of Gokyo’s turquoise lakes, with stunning mountains framing the landscape.

Step 7: Arrive in Gokyo and Settle into Guesthouse

• After a full day of trekking, arrive in Gokyo, a beautiful high-altitude village situated by the stunning Gokyo Lakes.
• Check into your guesthouse, have a warm meal, and rest after a long, adventurous day.

Step 1: Early Morning Ascent to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – 2-3 hours

• Begin the day with an early morning hike to Gokyo Ri to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas.
• The ascent is steep but rewarding, offering panoramic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and the surrounding peaks.
• After 2-3 hours, you’ll reach the summit of Gokyo Ri, where you can capture stunning photos of the Himalayan range and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes below.

Step 2: Descend Back to Gokyo (4,800m) – 1 hour

• After enjoying the views from Gokyo Ri, descend back to Gokyo village.
• The descent is quicker and provides a chance to take in the views from different angles as you head back down.

Step 3: Tour of the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes – 2-3 hours

• After a rest and some refreshments, set off to explore the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes.
• The hike is gentle and takes you further into the valley, offering serene views of the turquoise lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
• These lesser-visited lakes provide a tranquil experience and are perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

Step 4: Return to Gokyo Village

• After exploring the lakes, return to Gokyo village where you can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and rest for the evening.
• This day allows you to acclimatize further while enjoying the beauty of the Gokyo Valley.

Step 1: Early Morning Departure from Gokyo (4,800m)

• Begin the day early with breakfast at your guesthouse in Gokyo.
• Set off with plenty of water and snacks for the long trek, as today you’ll cross the challenging Renjo La Pass.

Step 2: Trek to Renjo La Pass (5,360m) – 3-4 hours

• The trail initially climbs steeply out of Gokyo toward Renjo La Pass, passing through rugged landscapes and rocky paths.
• As you ascend, take in the incredible views of the Gokyo Lakes and surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest and Lhotse.
• After about 3-4 hours of steady climbing, you’ll reach the top of Renjo La Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Himalayas and the turquoise lakes below.

Step 3: Rest and Enjoy Views at Renjo La Pass

• Take a break at the summit to rest, hydrate, and capture photos of the breathtaking scenery.
• From the top of the pass, you’ll have one of the best views of Mount Everest and the vast Himalayan range.

Step 4: Descend from Renjo La Pass

• Begin the descent, which is steep at first and requires careful attention on the rocky path.
• The trail gradually becomes less challenging as you descend further, with views of distant valleys and terraced hills.

Step 5: Trek to Marlung (4,210m) – 2-3 hours

• After completing the descent from Renjo La, follow the trail toward Marlung, a small Sherpa village located along the Bhote Koshi River.
• The path becomes more gradual, and the terrain shifts to a mix of alpine meadows and Sherpa settlements.

Step 6: Arrive in Marlung and Settle into Guesthouse

• After 7-8 hours of trekking, arrive in Marlung and check into your guesthouse.
• Rest, enjoy a warm meal, and relax after a long and rewarding day crossing Renjo La Pass.

You’ll trek from Marlung (4,210m) to Namche Bazaar (3,438m), a 5-6 hour journey that gradually descends through picturesque Sherpa villages and scenic landscapes. The trail follows the Bhote Koshi River with a few uphill and downhill sections, passing through small settlements like Taranga and Thame, known for its historic monastery and serene atmosphere. As you continue, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The final stretch is a steady descent toward the bustling village of Namche Bazaar, where you can enjoy the comfort of a cozy guesthouse, explore local shops, and celebrate your return to this iconic Sherpa hub.

You’ll trek from Namche Bazaar (3,438m) to Lukla (2,800m), a 6-7 hour journey marking the final day of your trek in the Everest region. The trail descends steeply at first, with stone steps leading down to the Dudh Koshi River, passing through beautiful forests of rhododendron and pine. You’ll cross several suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags and pass familiar villages like Monjo, Phakding, and Chheplung along the way. As you approach Lukla, take in the last views of the surrounding mountains and savor the achievement of completing this incredible trek. Upon arrival in Lukla, you’ll settle into your guesthouse for a restful evening, preparing for your flight back to Kathmandu the next day.

You’ll take an early morning flight from Lukla (2,860m) back to Kathmandu (1,324m), marking the end of your trekking adventure in the Everest region. The scenic 30-40 minute flight offers a final glimpse of the Himalayan mountains before you land at Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Luxury Holidays Nepal will transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, where you can rest, freshen up, and enjoy the comforts of city life. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Kathmandu, shop for souvenirs, or relax. In the evening, we’ll host a special farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant to celebrate the completion of your trek.

It’s time for your final departure from Kathmandu. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll have some free time to relax or do any last-minute shopping, depending on your flight schedule. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of your trek in the Everest region and a deep appreciation for Nepal's culture and landscapes. Safe travels.