Overview
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding trekking adventures, designed for experienced trekkers looking to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Himalayas. This circuit trek takes you through three of the highest and most spectacular passes in the Everest region; Kongma La Pass (5535m), Cho La Pass (5420m), and Renjo La Pass (5360m) - offering breathtaking views of some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest (8848.86m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Nuptse (7861m), and Ama Dablam (6812m). Along the journey, you will traverse remote valleys, visit ancient monasteries, explore the bustling Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, and experience the rich culture and traditions of the Khumbu region.
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Manthali, followed by a short but thrilling flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. From Lukla, the trek starts with a gentle walk to Phakding before ascending to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Everest region. A day is spent here acclimatizing, with a rewarding hike to Khumjung and Khunde villages via the famous Everest View Hotel, offering stunning panoramas of Everest and surrounding peaks. The trail continues through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, where trekkers can witness Buddhist rituals with a backdrop of towering mountains.
Ascending further, the trek leads to Dingboche, where another acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Peak provides incredible vistas. The route then heads towards Chhukung, a small settlement at the base of Kongma La Pass, before crossing the first and highest of the three passes, leading to Lobuche. From here, the adventure continues to Gorakshep, where trekkers visit Everest Base Camp (5364m), the iconic site where climbers prepare for their summit push. A sunset hike to Kala Patthar (5560m) offers one of the most mesmerizing views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Descending to Dzongla, the trail then takes on the challenge of Cho La Pass, a steep and icy climb that rewards with unparalleled views before reaching the pristine turquoise lakes of Gokyo. A rest day in Gokyo allows for an exploration of Gokyo Ri (5360m), which presents breathtaking 360 degree views of the Himalayas. Continuing the adventure, the final high pass, Renjo La, is crossed, offering one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region, before descending to Lungden and rejoining the classic Everest trail at Namche Bazaar.
The final days of the trek involve retracing the route back to Lukla, where a short flight takes trekkers to Manthali, followed by a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Everest three high passes trek is a true test of endurance, featuring remote trails, high-altitude landscapes, and unforgettable Himalayan panoramas. With the expert guidance of Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition, adventurers can experience this once in a lifetime journey with safety and support, ensuring an incredible and fulfilling experience in the world's most breathtaking mountain region.
Major Viewpoints & Mountains of the trek
The Everest Three High Passes Trek offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the entire Himalayan range. Throughout the journey, trekkers witness an awe-inspiring lineup of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest (8848.86m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8481m), Cho Oyu (8201m), Nuptse (7861m), Ama Dablam (6812m), Pumori (7161m), and Thamserku (6608m). These snow-capped giants dominate the skyline, creating an unforgettable trekking experience.
The trek’s major viewpoints include Kala Patthar (5560m), known for its unparalleled sunrise and sunset views of Everest, offering the closest possible vantage point of the world's highest mountain. Another highlight is Gokyo Ri (5357m), which provides a mesmerizing 360-degree view of four of the world's highest peaks; Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—along with the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes. Additionally, the three major high passes; Kongma La (5535m), Cho La (5420m), and Renjo La (5360m) each serve as breathtaking viewpoints, offering dramatic landscapes of glaciers, deep valleys, and rugged Himalayan terrain.
Aside from these iconic spots, several other vantage points along the trail enhance the experience, such as Everest View Hotel near Namche Bazaar, which presents a spectacular first glimpse of Everest. The Nangkartshang Peak (5121m) near Dingboche provides stunning views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding peaks, making it an excellent acclimatization hike. Every step of the trek unfolds new vistas, making it one of the most scenic journeys in the Himalayas.
Natural Attractions: Landscapes, Glaciers, and Lakes
The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes adventurers through some of the most diverse and dramatic landscapes in Nepal. The journey begins with lush green forests, rivers, and waterfalls in the lower Khumbu region before transitioning into rugged alpine terrain, glacial moraines, and high-altitude deserts. Trekkers walk through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity, where they may spot rare wildlife like musk deer, Himalayan Thar, Danphe (Nepal’s national bird), and even snow leopards in remote areas.
A major highlight of this trek is its glaciers, including the Khumbu Glacier, the largest in Nepal, stretching from Everest Base Camp. Trekkers also cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas, which extends below Gokyo Lakes. The Gokyo Lakes system, consisting of six pristine alpine lakes, is another breathtaking feature of the trek. These sacred lakes, shimmering in turquoise hues, offer a surreal contrast to the surrounding white snow and dark rocky terrain.
Additionally, the trek passes through stunning glacial valleys such as Imja Valley and Gokyo Valley, with their breathtaking scenery and remote, untouched landscapes. The high passes themselves; Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La provide unique natural beauty, featuring icy pathways, frozen lakes, and towering peaks on all sides. This combination of forests, rivers, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes makes the Everest Three High Passes Trek a truly diverse and unforgettable experience.
Cultural Attractions: Sherpa Villages, Monasteries & Traditions
One of the most enriching aspects of the Everest Three High Passes Trek is the deep immersion into Sherpa culture, as the journey takes trekkers through traditional Sherpa villages that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Namche Bazaar, the biggest Sherpa settlement, is the commercial hub of the region, filled with colorful markets, trekking shops, and cozy teahouses. It serves as a cultural melting pot where trekkers can experience Sherpa hospitality and visit the Sherpa Museum, which provides insights into their history, mountaineering legacy, and Buddhist traditions.
Another significant cultural landmark is the Tengboche Monastery (3860m), the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in the Everest region. Surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan views, the monastery is an essential stop where trekkers can witness daily Buddhist prayers, ancient murals, and sacred ceremonies. Further along the route, villages like Khumjung and Khunde offer more cultural experiences, including a visit to the Khunde Hospital and the famous Khumjung Monastery, which is said to house a purported Yeti scalp.
The trek also introduces travelers to smaller, less-visited villages like Phortse, Pangboche, Lungden and Thame, where they can experience authentic Sherpa lifestyle, traditional yak farming, and age-old Buddhist practices. Along the trails, trekkers will come across mani walls (prayer-inscribed stones), prayer flags, chortens (stupas), and ancient monasteries, which reflect the deep spiritual essence of the region. The cultural richness, combined with the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, makes this trek more than just a physical journey—it becomes a spiritual and cultural awakening.
Best Time for Everest Three High Passes Trek
Choosing the right season for the Everest Three High Passes Trek is crucial for a successful and enjoyable experience. The best time for this trek is during spring (March to Jun) and autumn (October to December) when the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayan peaks are at their best.
Spring (March to Jun) is a fantastic season for this trek as the temperatures gradually warm up after winter. The trails come alive with colorful rhododendron blooms, adding a vibrant touch to the already stunning landscapes. During this time, visibility is excellent, allowing for uninterrupted panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other towering peaks. The moderate temperatures make high-altitude trekking more comfortable, though the high passes may still have snow from the winter months, making for a challenging but rewarding adventure.
Autumn (October to December) is considered the most popular trekking season due to the stable weather conditions and crystal-clear mountain views. After the monsoon season, the air is crisp, and the landscape appears fresh and lush. With minimal chances of rainfall and snowfall, crossing the three high passes; Kongma La (5535m), Cho La (5420m), and Renjo La (5360m) becomes safer and more manageable. The autumn months also bring festive energy, as trekkers may get to witness Nepal’s biggest festivals, Dashain and Tihar, adding a cultural element to the journey.
While winter (January to February) and monsoon (July to August) are less favorable seasons, they still offer unique experiences. Winter brings freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, making the high passes extremely difficult to cross, though the trails are quieter for those seeking solitude. The monsoon season, on the other hand, brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the chances of landslides, though the landscape is lush and green.
Everest Three High Passes Trekking Difficulty Level
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, demanding a high level of physical fitness, endurance, and previous trekking experience. It is classified as a strenuous and high-altitude trek due to its long trekking days, steep ascents, rugged terrain, and the need to cross three high passes above 5,300 meters. Trekkers must be prepared for extreme weather conditions, high-altitude effects, and physically demanding trails.
One of the biggest challenges of this trek is altitude sickness, as trekkers reach elevations above 5,500 meters multiple times throughout the journey. Proper acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche are essential to help the body adjust to the thinning oxygen levels. Symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath can occur, making it necessary to trek at a steady pace and stay well-hydrated. The three high passes; Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La involve steep ascents, icy paths, and glacial crossings, requiring both stamina and trekking experience.
Daily trekking hours range between 5 to 9 hours, with some of the longest and most strenuous days occurring when crossing the high passes. The terrain includes rocky trails, moraine paths, glacier crossings, and steep descents, requiring good trekking gear, warm clothing, and strong mental resilience. While no technical climbing skills are needed, prior experience in high-altitude trekking, multi-day treks, and long hikes is highly recommended. Hiring a professional guide and porter through Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition can significantly enhance safety and overall trekking experience.
Why Choose Everest Three High Passes Trek with Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition
Selecting the right trekking company is key to ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized adventure in the Himalayas. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition is a trusted and experienced trekking operator that specializes in high-altitude adventures, offering expert guidance, personalized services, and a deep understanding of the Everest region.
One of the main reasons to choose Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition is their highly experienced and professional team of guides and porters. The company employs local Sherpa guides who are not only knowledgeable about the trekking routes but also deeply connected to the history, culture, and traditions of the Khumbu region. Their expertise ensures safe navigation through challenging terrain, proper acclimatization strategies, and real-time assistance in case of any altitude-related issues.
Additionally, the company prioritizes safety, comfort, and responsible trekking practices. They provide well-planned itineraries with adequate acclimatization days, ensuring that trekkers can enjoy the journey while reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Their trekking packages include comfortable teahouse accommodations, hygienic meals, and well-maintained trekking equipment, making the experience as smooth as possible. Moreover, Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition is committed to sustainable tourism, supporting local communities and promoting eco-friendly trekking practices.
By choosing Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition, trekkers undertake the Everest Three High Passes Trek with confidence, security, and a team dedicated to making the adventure unforgettable. From breathtaking mountain views and cultural immersion to expert guidance and logistical support, their services ensure an enriching and hassle-free Himalayan trekking experience.
The Everest Three High Passes Trek, organized by Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition, offers an unparalleled adventure through majestic mountains, pristine landscapes, and rich Sherpa culture. Whether it’s the jaw-dropping views from high passes, the serene beauty of Gokyo Lakes, or the spiritual experience in remote monasteries, every moment of this trek is an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Manthali (474 m), 5 to 6 hrs.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Manthali, a small town in the Ramechhap district. The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours, winding through the lush hills, terraced farmlands, and rural villages of Nepal. Manthali serves as the gateway for flights to Lukla, offering an alternative to the busy Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After reaching Manthali, you will check into a local lodge and rest for the night, preparing for your early morning flight to Lukla.
Day 2 : Fly to Lukla (2,840 m) then trek to Phakding (2,610 m), 15 min flight and 3 to 4 hrs trekking.
An early morning flight from Manthali to Lukla marks the start of the trekking journey. The 15 minute flight provides breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas before landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, one of the most thrilling airstrips in the world. Upon arrival in Lukla, you’ll meet the trekking crew, finalize gear, and begin the trek to Phakding. The trail descends gradually through rhododendron and pine forests, passing through villages like Chheplung and Ghat before reaching Phakding, a charming settlement along the Dudh Koshi River.
Day 3 : Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), 6 to 7 hrs trekking.
Today’s trek follows the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. You will pass through Monjo, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where permits are checked before continuing toward Namche Bazaar. The final stretch involves a steep uphill climb, but the reward is spectacular your first glimpse of Everest in the distance. Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa town, serves as the main trading hub of the Khumbu region and offers a range of accommodations, bakeries, and trekking gear shops.
Day 4 : Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar and hike to Khumjung and Khunde via Everest View Hotel (3,880 m), 4 to 5 hrs hiking.
To help with acclimatization, you will spend a day in Namche with a short yet rewarding hike to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest-altitude hotels in the world. From here, you can admire panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The hike continues to Khumjung and Khunde, traditional Sherpa villages where you can visit the Hillary School and Khumjung Monastery, which houses a supposed Yeti scalp. You will then return to Namche for an evening of rest and exploration.
Day 5 : Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860 m), 5 to 6 hrs trekking.
The trail follows a scenic path with stunning views of Everest and Ama Dablam before descending to Phunki Tenga, a small riverside village. After crossing the river, the ascent to Tengboche begins, a challenging but rewarding climb. Tengboche is home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region, where trekkers can witness a peaceful evening prayer session amidst a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Day 6 : Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m), 4 to 5 hrs trekking.
Descending through lush forests, you will cross the Imja Khola before climbing steadily toward Pangboche, the last permanent Sherpa village en route to Everest Base Camp. Continuing along the barren, windswept landscapes, you reach Dingboche, known as the "summer valley" due to its open fields and yak pastures. The higher altitude is noticeable here, so you will take it slow and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Day 7 : Acclimatization day in Dingboche and hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,121m), 3 to 4 hrs hiking.
A second acclimatization day includes a rewarding hike to Nangkartshang Peak, offering panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The steep climb provides excellent acclimatization while giving you a sense of the high-altitude trekking experience. You will return to Dingboche in the afternoon for a well-earned rest.
Day 8 : Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730m), 2 to 3 hrs trekking.
A short but important trek to Chhukung prepares you for the challenge ahead. The trail offers spectacular views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and the glaciers surrounding the valley. Upon arrival, you can rest or explore the nearby ridges for even better mountain panoramas.
Day 9 : Chhukung to Lobuche (4,910 m) via Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), 8 to 9 hrs trekking.
The first high pass of the trek, Kongma La, is a challenging ascent through rugged terrain and glacier moraines. The climb is demanding but rewarding, with mesmerizing views from the top. After crossing the pass, you descend to Lobuche, exhausted but exhilarated.
Day 10 : Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,140 m) and evening hike to Kala Patthar (5,560 m), 6 to 7 hrs trekking.
Today’s journey takes you further into the high-altitude wilderness of the Everest region as you trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. The trail initially follows the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, with stunning views of towering peaks like Pumori, Nuptse, and Everest itself. The rugged terrain and increasing altitude make the trek more challenging, but the breathtaking scenery keeps your spirits high.
Upon reaching Gorakshep, you will take a short break before preparing for the highlight of the day—an evening hike to Kala Patthar (5,560 m). This viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, glowing golden in the light of the setting sun. Other Himalayan giants such as Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori add to the stunning spectacle. After soaking in the magical views and capturing unforgettable photos, you will descend back to Gorakshep for an overnight stay, resting before the next day’s trek to Everest Base Camp.
Day 11 : Hike Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), return to Gorakshep and trek to Dzongla (4,830 m), 6 to 7 hrs trekking.
This is the most exciting day for many trekkers as you finally reach Everest Base Camp (EBC), the iconic site where climbers prepare for their ascent of the world’s highest peak. After an early morning breakfast in Gorakshep, you will trek along the glacier moraine, navigating rocky terrain to reach the base camp. Upon arrival, you can take in the breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall, the first challenge faced by mountaineers attempting to summit Everest. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and appreciate the immense energy of this legendary place.
After spending some time at EBC, you will trek back to Gorakshep for lunch before continuing your descent toward Dzongla (4,830 m). The trail gradually descends, taking you away from the Everest Base Camp route and toward the next phase of your adventure the Cho La Pass crossing. Dzongla is a peaceful and less crowded area, with magnificent views of Cholatse and Lobuche peaks. You will settle into a teahouse here, resting in preparation for the challenging day ahead.
Day 12 : Dzongla to Gokyo (4,790m) via Cho La Pass (5,420m), 8 to 9 hrs trekking.
Today is one of the most demanding yet rewarding days of the trek as you cross the Cho La Pass (5,420 m). You will start early, ascending the steep and rocky trail that leads to the top of the pass. The final section of the climb involves navigating an icy section, often requiring micro-spikes or crampons for safety. Reaching the summit of Cho La is a moment of triumph, as you are surrounded by spectacular Himalayan peaks, including Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Baruntse.
The descent from the pass is steep and requires caution, leading into a rugged glacier field before transitioning into grassy pastures. The landscape changes dramatically as you make your way toward Dragnag, a small settlement before Gokyo. After a short break, you will continue along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, before finally arriving in Gokyo (4,790 m), a stunning valley beside turquoise glacial lakes. After a long and strenuous day, you can relax at a comfortable teahouse, enjoying the breathtaking views of Gokyo Lake and Cho Oyu (8,188 m), the sixth-highest mountain in the world.
Day 13 : Rest and exploration day in Gokyo.
After several days of challenging trekking, today is a well-deserved rest and exploration day in Gokyo. For those who still have energy, an early morning hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) is highly recommended. This viewpoint offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes. Watching the sunrise from here is an unforgettable experience.
For a more relaxed exploration, you can visit the fifth and sixth Gokyo Lakes, which are situated further up the valley and provide pristine, untouched scenery. Alternatively, you can take a short walk around the third lake and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this remote mountain paradise. The day is also an opportunity to recover, enjoy good food, and prepare for the next high pass crossing Renjo La.
Day 14 : Gokyo to Lungden (4,380 m) via Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), 8 to 9 hrs trekking.
Another exhilarating and demanding day awaits as you cross the Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), the final high pass of the trek. The trail ascends gradually above Gokyo, with stunning views of the lakes below. The final section is a steep climb to the top of Renjo La, where a magnificent panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Rolwaling Himalayas unfolds before you.
The descent from Renjo La is steep but incredibly scenic, passing through remote landscapes untouched by the usual trekking crowds. The trail winds down into the Bhote Koshi Valley, eventually reaching Lungden (4,380 m), a small settlement that offers basic yet comfortable teahouses. The dramatic contrast between the snowy high-altitude passes and the greener landscapes below makes today’s trek truly unforgettable.
Day 15 : Lungden to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), 6 to 7 hrs trekking.
Leaving the high-altitude wilderness behind, you will gradually descend toward Namche Bazaar, retracing ancient Tibetan trade routes. The path follows the Bhote Koshi River, passing through traditional Sherpa villages like Thame, home to one of the oldest monasteries in the Khumbu region.
Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you return to the bustling heart of the Everest region. Here, you can celebrate your successful trek with a warm meal, a hot shower, and perhaps even some souvenirs from the local markets.
Day 16 : Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m), 6 to 7 hrs trekking.
The final day of trekking retraces your steps through the familiar trails of the Sagarmatha National Park, passing by Monjo, Phakding, and several scenic suspension bridges. As you descend, you’ll feel the increasing oxygen levels, making the walk easier compared to the high-altitude sections.
Upon reaching Lukla, you can celebrate with your trekking team, enjoy a relaxing evening, and reflect on the incredible journey you have just completed.
Day 17 : Fly to Manthali and drive to Kathmandu, 5 min flight and 6 to 7 hrs driving.
Early in the morning, you will take a short yet thrilling flight from Lukla to Manthali, where the vast Himalayan landscapes slowly transition into rolling hills and river valleys. After landing in Manthali, you will embark on a 6 to 7-hour drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the lush scenery of rural Nepal along the way.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can finally relax, enjoy a celebratory meal, and reflect on your epic Everest Three High Passes Trek with Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition.
Inclusions
What is included?
- Permit: All the necessary trekking permits.
- Accommodation: 1 night hotel in Manthali and 15 nights in lodge during the trek.
- Road transportation: Pick-up and drop-off from Kathmandu to Manthali via a private vehicle.
- Domestic flight: Round trip from Manthali to Lukla includes applicable departure taxes.
- Meal: On full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with a cup of tea or coffee each meal during the trek, as well as seasonal fresh fruit dessert every evening after dinner.
- Filed staff: An experienced government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide and necessary porter normally 1 porter for 2 trekkers who carry max 25 kg, as well as their meals, transportation, insurance, accommodations, and equipment. If there are more than 4 people in a group, there will be a guide assistant.
- Equipment: Each of you is given a waterproof duffle bag by our agency to use during your trek. Leave the materials you don't need for trekking in your travel bag at your hotel in Kathmandu.
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
- Water purification tablets to purify your water during the trek for safe drinking water.
- An oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse level during the trek in the mountain is very useful for all trekkers to be aware of high altitude sickness.
- We assist in arranging emergency rescue operations in the event of complex health conditions, and your travel insurance will cover the cost.
What isn't included?
- Fares for international flights
- Nepal entry visa fee on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport: US$ 50 for 30 days.
- All meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
- Personal expenses: shopping, snacks, boiled water, extra tea/coffee, cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc.
- Your personal trekking/hiking gear
- Travel insurance that is mandatory for emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation
- Tips for guides and porters that are highly recommended
- Additional costs may occur due to causes beyond our control, such as landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.
- All other services, costs, and expenses not listed in the list of costs included.
- If you depart earlier than the itinerary program, your payment will not be refunded, and early arrival or late departure expenses will not be covered by your trip cost.
Complimentary
Food & Accommodations during the trek
The Everest Three High Passes Trek takes trekkers through remote Himalayan villages, where food and accommodations are provided by traditional teahouses. These teahouses, run by local Sherpa families, offer basic but comfortable lodging with meals that provide essential energy for the demanding trek. The rooms are typically twin-sharing with wooden beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Some lodges in major villages like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo offer attached bathrooms, but as the trek ascends to higher altitudes, facilities become more basic, often with shared bathrooms and limited hot showers.
In terms of meals, teahouses serve a variety of Nepali and international dishes, though the menu options become more limited at higher altitudes. The most popular and recommended meal is Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali dish consisting of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles. This meal provides plenty of carbohydrates and protein, crucial for maintaining energy levels during the trek. Other common meals include noodles, soups, pasta, momos (dumplings), fried rice, pancakes, eggs, and Tibetan bread. While some tea houses offer meat dishes, it is advisable to stick to vegetarian meals as meat is transported from lower altitudes and may not always be fresh.
For breakfast, trekkers can enjoy options such as porridge, muesli, omelets, toast, and tea or coffee. Snacks such as chocolates, biscuits, and energy bars can also be purchased along the way, though they tend to be more expensive at higher elevations due to transportation costs. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition ensures that trekkers receive nutritious and hygienic food throughout the journey, making sure they stay well-fed and energized for the challenges ahead.
Drinking Water on the trek
Staying hydrated is crucial for high-altitude trekking, as dehydration can increase the risk of altitude sickness. Drinking at least 3 to 4 liters of water per day is recommended, especially when trekking through high passes. There are multiple sources of drinking water along the trail, but trekkers need to ensure that the water is properly purified before consumption.
Bottled water is available in teahouses and small shops along the route, but the cost increases significantly at higher elevations due to transportation difficulties. To reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly trekking, trekkers are encouraged to use refillable water bottles and water purification methods such as water purification tablets, Steripen (UV water purifiers), or portable filters. Most teahouses provide boiled water, which can be refilled for a small fee and is one of the safest drinking options.
Natural water sources such as streams, rivers, and glacial lakes are available throughout the trek, but these should never be consumed without proper purification due to potential contamination from livestock, human activity, or bacteria. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition advises trekkers on safe drinking water options and promotes responsible trekking practices to ensure minimal environmental impact.
Charging Facilities on the trek
Electricity is available at most tea houses along the trekking route, but charging electronic devices comes with certain limitations and additional costs. In lower regions like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, teahouses have regular power supply, and charging may be free or available for a small fee. However, as trekkers ascend to higher elevations, electricity is primarily solar-powered, and charging costs range from $2 to $5 per device.
To avoid frequent charging fees, trekkers are advised to bring extra batteries, power banks, or solar chargers to keep their devices powered throughout the journey. Cameras, mobile phones, GPS devices, and headlamps are the most commonly used electronics, and carrying a high-capacity power bank can be extremely helpful. Some teahouses may have USB charging ports, but it’s best to carry an adapter with multiple plug options, as Nepal uses Type C and Type D electrical outlets.
During the trek, the availability of charging facilities decreases in remote areas such as Dzongla, Lobuche, and Gorakshep, and on days when trekkers cross Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La Passes, there may be no charging options at all. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition advises trekkers to conserve battery life by using devices only when necessary and keeping them in warm pockets at night to prevent battery drain due to cold temperatures.
Network & Communications on the trek
Staying connected during the Everest Three High Passes Trek can be challenging due to the remoteness of the region and limited network coverage. However, there are several options available for communication, including local SIM cards, Wi-Fi services, and satellite phones.
Local mobile networks such as NCELL and Nepal Telecom (NTC) provide 4G and 3G coverage in lower areas, including Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Dingboche. As trekkers ascend higher, network reception becomes weaker and more unreliable, especially in remote villages like Gokyo, Lobuche, Dzongla, and Gorakshep. Purchasing a local SIM card with a data package in Kathmandu is a good option for those who wish to stay connected, but coverage cannot be guaranteed at all points along the trek.
Many tea houses offer Wi-Fi services for a fee, ranging from $2 to $10 per hour, depending on the altitude and location. The Everest Link Wi-Fi system provides internet access in many parts of the region, though it can be slow and unreliable, particularly in bad weather. For those needing a more reliable connection, satellite phones can be rented in Kathmandu, but they are expensive and typically used only in emergencies.
Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition ensures that trekkers remain informed about network availability and provides communication options for emergency situations. Guides and staff carry walkie-talkies or satellite phones for safety and coordination, ensuring that help is always within reach if needed.
Weather Conditions during the trek
Weather conditions on the Everest Three High Passes Trek vary significantly depending on the season, altitude, and time of day. Due to the high-altitude terrain, temperatures can drop drastically, and weather patterns can change unexpectedly, making it essential for trekkers to be well-prepared for all conditions.
In spring (March to May), the weather is generally stable and mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in lower regions and -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) at higher elevations. This season offers clear skies, warm trekking conditions, and beautiful blooming rhododendrons, making it one of the best times for the trek.
During autumn (September to November), temperatures are similar to those in spring, with dry, crisp air and excellent visibility. The days are warm, but nights can be cold at higher altitudes, especially when crossing the three high passes. Temperatures at the top of Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La can drop to -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F), so proper layering is essential.
Winter (December to February) brings extreme cold and heavy snowfall, making the trek significantly more difficult. Daytime temperatures can drop to -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), while nights at higher elevations can plunge to -20°C (-4°F) or lower. The high passes may be covered in deep snow, making them nearly impassable. Monsoon season (June to August), on the other hand, brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and low visibility, though it is the least crowded time to trek.
Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition provides detailed weather updates, expert guidance, and proper gear recommendations to ensure trekkers are fully prepared for all weather conditions. Their experienced guides are trained to handle unexpected weather challenges, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.