Overview

Along this challenging and rewarding adventure in the Everest region, you'll encounter three high mountain passes – Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La, each offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You'll witness the incredible Gokyo Lake, with it's crystal-clear waters and friendly yaks. And of course you'll visit the base camps of iconic peaks like Everest, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu, giving you a glimpse into how climbers prepare for their expeditions. You'll also have the opportunity to summit smaller peaks like Sundar Ri, Gokyo Ri, and Chukung Ri, offering challenging side-trips with solitary views. In this guide, I'll cover a couple different itinerary options to make this journey your own.

Essential Information

Three Passes Trek Map (GPS Route)

Learn how to download the map for your own offline use by reading how I navigate on the trail .

Itinerary Options

Now, let's explore the different itinerary options for the Three Passes Trek. As you might be able to see from the map, you have two major decisions to make: where to start and which way to go.

Where to start?

Lukla is the typical starting point of many treks in the Khumbu region. However, you have a couple of options to reach here. You can either take a jeep to a village lower in the Solukhumbu valley and walk to Lukla, or you can fly directly to Lukla from Kathmandu. Flying is faster and more convenient, but flights are weather-dependent, can be subject to delays and cancellations, and are more expensive. If you have a few extra days and wish for a more authentic experience, consider starting your trek from lower in the Solukhumbu Valley. This path allows you to explore lesser-visited villages, witness the majestic summit of Pikey Peak, and save some money by avoiding the flight to Lukla. I chose this option to immerse myself in the local culture and discover hidden gems. The typical starting points are Jiri, Salleri, Dhap, or Phaplu. Most hotels in Thamel, Kathmandu, can help you organize your journey to the starting point. Check out my Pikey Peak Trek for more information.

Which way to go?

Next, you'll have to decide whether to go clockwise or counter-clockwise on your journey. After reaching Namche Bazaar, the path splits. Going clockwise will offer you quieter trails and tea houses, and if Everest Base Camp is your main destination, you'll save it for last, building up the excitement. Additionally, the views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Gokyo Lake as you descend from the passes are truly awe-inspiring. On the other hand, going counter-clockwise provides a gentler elevation gain and a slightly more defined acclimatization schedule. Personally, I opted to go clockwise for fewer crowds and better vistas, and I was not disappointed.

Does it Matter?

No matter where you choose to start or which direction you go, get ready for an adventure that will leave you in awe.

Itinerary

The trek typically takes around 19-21 days to complete, depending on the route and your pace. You have a couple options to make this itinerary your own. Personally, I decided to start from lower in the valley instead of flying to Lukla and walk the loop clockwise for better views and fewer crowds.

Personal Highlights

Every part of my 21 days was breathtaking, and there are infinite possibilities to add side trips to your itinerary, but here is what stands out most for me.

Renjo Pass

Easily my favorite of the three passes, Renjo stands out for its breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Gokyo Lake. As I walked down towards Gokyo, I couldn't keep my eyes away.

Thame

Thame is a charming village surrounded by majestic mountains. Take a well-deserved rest day here and consider an acclimatization hike to Sundar Peak for even more mesmerizing views. Don't miss the chance to visit Thame Monastery and spend some time wandering around the village to observe the yaks and horses, essential companions of the Khumbu region.

Gokyo Lake

Gokyo Lake is a tranquil gem nestled amidst the Himalayas. There are many options for day hikes in the area, such as the other lakes or Gokyo Ri. Take your time to walk around the mesmerizing blue waters, and let the serenity of the place rejuvenate your spirit.

Kongma Pass

At the zenith of Kongma Pass, a spectacle of unparalleled grandeur unfolds. Behold a realm where frozen lakes shimmer like jewels, and colossal mountains stand as sentinels of the heavens. This is a vista that ignites the spirit and commands reverence, a testament to the indomitable spirit of nature and humanity intertwined.

Dzongla to Lobuche

As you traverse this path adorned by the majestic presence of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants, you will be enveloped in a profound sense of wonder. These moments of tranquil exploration have etched themselves as cherished memories in my heart.

Weather and Seasons

Having visited Nepal across various seasons, I've realized that there isn't best time to visit, as each season has its advantages and drawbacks. Select the time that matches your preferred weather, scenery, and crowd conditions. Personally, I find late Spring and early Winter appealing due to favorable weather and fewer crowds.

Recommended Gear

Prepare for the incredible Three Passes Trek in Nepal with the right gear essentials. Layered clothing is a must for unpredictable weather, ensuring adaptability to varying conditions. While villages provide water, pack water purification gear for peace of mind. Carry a 1-liter water bottle, a sun hat, and quality sunglasses to combat the intense mountain sun. Don't forget trail mix for energy between meals, easily sourced from Kathmandu's Asan Market. Slip into comfy flip flops or socks after trekking, and keep devices charged with a substantial power bank due to limited charging spots. Capture memories with a reliable camera and skip camping gear unless exploring remote areas. Lastly, ensure you have enough cash to cover expenses for the entire trek. With these essentials, get ready for an unforgettable adventure amidst Nepal's stunning landscapes on the Three Passes Trek.

Costs

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