Everest High Passes Trek – 15 Days

Challenge yourself with the Everest High Passes Trek, a 15-day adventure through the remote highlands of the Khumbu region. This exhilarating trek takes you through dramatic landscapes, ancient trade routes, pristine glacial valleys, and traditional Sherpa villages, offering panoramic views of some of the world's highest peaks. Designed for experienced trekkers seeking a physically demanding and unforgettable journey, this route connects the three major passes of the Everest region – Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m).

Trek Overview

The journey starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a mountain airstrip that serves as the gateway to the Everest region. From Lukla, the trail leads to Phakding, surrounded by lush sub-tropical forests, and then continues to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa town that serves as the cultural and trading hub of the Khumbu.

Spend time acclimatizing in Namche while enjoying views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Visit the spiritual center of the region at Tengboche Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in the Himalayas, surrounded by rhododendron and conifer forests.

As the trail ascends, pass through the high-altitude villages of Dingboche and Chhukung, where trekkers can hike to Chhukung Ri (5,550m) for spectacular views of the Imja Valley and surrounding peaks. The route then leads over the first major pass, Kongma La, descending to Lobuche, located near the Khumbu Glacier.

From Lobuche, the trail moves to Dzongla and crosses the Cho La Pass, a challenging section known for its steep ascents and icy terrain. Continue on to Gokyo, a tranquil village nestled beside the stunning Gokyo Lakes, and ascend Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for one of the finest panoramic views in the Himalayas, including Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse.

After exploring the sacred Gokyo Lakes, trek across the final high pass, Renjo La, which connects the Gokyo Valley to Marlung. This section of the trek follows ancient trading routes along the Dudh Pokhari, a sacred alpine lake, before reconnecting with the main Everest trail and returning to Namche Bazaar.

The trek concludes with a descent to Lukla, where you’ll take a flight back to Kathmandu, ending your high-altitude Himalayan experience.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to undertake the Everest High Passes Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular trekking seasons in Nepal. The weather is generally stable, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures during the day. This season offers blooming rhododendron forests, vibrant alpine flora, and excellent mountain visibility. Temperatures at higher altitudes remain cold but manageable with proper gear.

Autumn (Late September to November)

This is considered the ideal time for trekking in the Everest region. The monsoon rains clear the skies, resulting in spectacular views of the Himalayas. Days are generally sunny and crisp, while nights can be chilly, especially above 4,000 meters. Trails are at their busiest during this time, so early booking is recommended.

Other Months:

• Winter (December to February): Extremely cold and snowy at high passes, with many teahouses closed. Suitable only for highly experienced trekkers with winter trekking/mountaineering skills.
• Monsoon (June to mid-September): Heavy rainfall, cloud cover, slippery trails, and risk of landslides. Not recommended for this trek.

Physical Fitness and Trekking Requirements

The Everest High Passes Trek is a challenging and demanding adventure that requires excellent physical fitness and mental stamina. It involves long trekking days, often 6–9 hours, over rugged terrain, steep inclines, glacier crossings, and altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters. Trekkers should have previous experience at high altitude (above 4,000m) and be well-prepared through a training regimen that includes cardiovascular workouts, strength training, endurance hiking, and load-bearing walks with a backpack. This trek is not suitable for beginners or those with heart, respiratory, or joint issues unless medically cleared and adequately trained. Preparation should begin at least two to three months in advance to ensure you're physically and mentally equipped for the altitude and terrain.

Lukla Flight and Alternative Options

The Lukla flight is the most common and convenient way to begin the Everest High Passes Trek. Lukla, home to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport (2,800m), is a small mountain airstrip and serves as the gateway to the entire Everest region. Flights to Lukla typically depart from Ramechhap Airport (about 4–5 hours' drive from Kathmandu) during the peak trekking seasons — spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) — to avoid congestion and air traffic at Kathmandu Airport. During the off-season or in rare cases, flights may still operate directly from Kathmandu.

Lukla flights are highly weather-dependent, as the mountainous terrain and short runway make flying in poor visibility dangerous. Delays and cancellations are common, especially during the monsoon or winter months. Trekkers should always build buffer days into their itinerary for flexibility in case of delays.

Alternative Options to Reach Lukla or the Trailhead:

• Helicopter Flights: A faster, more reliable but expensive alternative. Helicopter flights to Lukla (or directly to Namche in some cases) are available and often used when regular flights are canceled or delayed.
• Overland + Trekking Route (Jiri or Phaplu): For those who want to avoid flying altogether, it's possible to travel by road to Jiri or Phaplu, followed by several days of trekking to reach Lukla or Namche. This classic route adds 5–7 extra days but offers a more gradual acclimatization and scenic introduction to the Khumbu region.

No matter the route, the Alpine Club of Himalaya assists with all logistics, including flight bookings, transportation to Ramechhap, and alternative travel plans if needed, ensuring a smooth start to your trek regardless of conditions

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization Preparation

Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a common risk on high-altitude treks like the Everest High Passes, especially since the route includes several days above 4,000 meters and crosses three passes above 5,000 meters. Symptoms can range from mild headaches and fatigue to more serious conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). To reduce the risk, the itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo, allowing the body to adjust gradually. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace, avoiding alcohol, and eating well are all critical for safe acclimatization. Trekkers are advised to consult a doctor before the trip, and medications like Diamox may be used under guidance. All guides from the Alpine Club of Himalaya are trained to recognize symptoms of altitude sickness and are equipped to respond with first aid and oxygen support when necessary.

Meals During the Trek

Throughout the Everest High Passes Trek, you will be served nutritious, freshly prepared meals at local teahouses. Typical meals include rice, pasta, noodles, potatoes, soups, eggs, vegetables, and the famous Dal Bhat—a staple Nepali dish of lentils, rice, and curry. Breakfast usually includes items like porridge, pancakes, toast, and eggs. While the menu is largely vegetarian, some teahouses offer meat dishes, although it's advisable to avoid meat at higher elevations due to lack of refrigeration. Snacks, energy bars, and electrolyte powders are useful to carry for added nutrition and energy between meals.

Drinking Water on the Trail

Safe drinking water is essential on the Everest High Passes. While bottled water is available for purchase in teahouses, it becomes increasingly expensive with altitude and contributes to plastic waste. A more sustainable and cost-effective option is to treat local tap or stream water using water purification tablets, filters, or UV sterilizers. Many trekkers bring reusable bottles and refill them along the way. Staying hydrated is also key to preventing altitude sickness, so aim to drink at least 3–4 liters of water per day.

Accommodation

Accommodation along the route is in locally-run teahouses, which offer basic but comfortable lodging. Rooms usually include twin beds with foam mattresses, blankets, and pillows. However, it’s recommended to bring a four-season sleeping bag for extra warmth, especially at higher elevations where nighttime temperatures can drop significantly. Toilets range from Western-style to squat, and some lodges offer hot showers for an additional fee. While facilities are simple, the hospitality of the local hosts makes the experience warm and welcoming.

Guide and Porter Services

Hiring a licensed trekking guide and porter through a reputable company like Alpine Club of Himalaya significantly enhances the safety and enjoyment of your trek. A professional guide not only ensures proper acclimatization and route navigation but also shares insights into the local culture, customs, and geography.

A porter carries your main luggage, allowing you to trek with just a light daypack. For comfort and ethical labor practices, one porter is assigned for every two trekkers, ensuring the workload is manageable and fair. This arrangement allows you to focus on the journey while supporting the local economy responsibly.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for anyone undertaking the Himalayas Trek. Your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking up to 5,500 meters, including emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation or interruption. The Everest High Passes is a remote and physically challenging section of the trek, where access to medical facilities is limited. In case of injury, altitude sickness, or extreme weather, timely evacuation may be necessary. Always review the policy details and ensure it covers adventure activities specific to the Everest region.

Passport and Visa Requirements

To enter Nepal, travelers must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry. Tourist visas are required for most nationalities and can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or online through the official Nepal eVisa system. It's recommended to carry multiple passport-sized photos for the visa application and trekking permits. Always verify the latest visa regulations with the nearest Nepali embassy or consulate before traveling.

Acclimatization During the Trek

Acclimatization is a crucial part of the Everest High Passes Trek, given the extreme altitudes and the demanding nature of the route. The trek reaches elevations above 5,000 meters multiple times — including Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes — where oxygen levels are significantly lower than at sea level. To help your body adapt and minimize the risk of altitude sickness, the itinerary includes scheduled acclimatization days in key locations such as Namche Bazaar (3,420m) and Gokyo (4,750m). These rest days aren’t for complete inactivity; instead, they involve short hikes to higher altitudes followed by a return to lower sleeping elevations, a method known as “climb high, sleep low.” This approach boosts the body's ability to adjust to reduced oxygen levels.

In addition to designated acclimatization days, the trekking pace is kept gradual to allow your body time to adapt with each gain in elevation. Hydration, proper nutrition, and rest are strongly emphasized throughout the trek. Trekkers are encouraged to drink 3–4 liters of water per day and avoid alcohol or sleep aids at high altitude. Our guides at the Alpine Club of Himalaya are trained to monitor signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and make necessary adjustments to the itinerary if needed, including extra rest or descent if symptoms develop. With a carefully crafted route and expert guidance, proper acclimatization becomes a built-in safety measure to ensure both a rewarding and secure trekking experience.

Entry Permits and Trekking Authorization

Several official permits are required to undertake the Everest High Passes trek as the trail passes through national parks and restricted areas. These include region-specific trekking permits and an entry pass for the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, trekkers must register at multiple checkpoints along the trail for safety tracking and environmental conservation purposes. All necessary permits are arranged by the Alpine Club of Himalaya as part of the trekking package to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Final Notes

Before embarking on the Everest Three Passes Trek, it is vital to ensure that all your gear is thoroughly tested and properly fitted. Ill-fitting boots, untried technical equipment, or unfamiliar layering systems can cause discomfort or pose safety risks at high altitude. It is equally important to test your backpack’s load-bearing comfort well in advance of your departure. Proper physical preparation, reliable and tested gear, and open communication with your guiding company will help ensure a smooth, safe, and memorable Himalayan adventure. The Alpine Club of Himalaya is committed to supporting you throughout your trek, so please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns before or during the journey.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by the Participant

If a participant chooses to cancel their booking for the Everest Three Passes Trek, they must notify the Alpine Club of Himalaya in writing (via email or official communication) as early as possible. The following cancellation charges apply:

• 60 days or more before the trek start date:
  A cancellation fee of 20% of the total trip cost will be deducted.
• 30 to 59 days before the trek start date:
  A cancellation fee of 50% of the total trip cost will be charged.
• Less than 30 days before departure:
  The entire trip cost is non-refundable.

These charges cover administrative expenses, permits, pre-arranged logistics, and potential opportunity losses incurred due to late cancellations.

Cancellation by the Organizer

In the rare event that the Alpine Club of Himalaya must cancel the Everest Three Passes Trek due to unforeseen or uncontrollable circumstances such as natural disasters, extreme weather, or regional safety concerns, participants will be offered the following options:

• A full refund of all payments made
  OR
• The option to reschedule the trek for a future available date.

The safety of all trekkers and staff is our highest priority, and cancellations are made only when absolutely necessary.

Force Majeure Clause

The Alpine Club of Himalaya is not responsible for cancellations, delays, or additional expenses arising from force majeure events, including but not limited to:

• Earthquakes, floods, landslides
• Political unrest or border closures
• Epidemics, pandemics, or health emergencies
• Airspace shutdowns or airline disruptions

In such cases, participants are responsible for any extra personal costs such as accommodation, flight changes, or insurance claims. We strongly recommend that all trekkers purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and force majeure situations before joining the trek.