| Duration : | 17 nights and 18 days. |
| Trip start/end: | At Kathmandu/Lukla. |
| Grade: | Difficulty due to high altitude. |
| Accommodation style: | Lodge Trek. |
| Best season: | September to December and March to June. |
| Highest elevation: | Chhukung Ri 5,550 meters. |
| Viewpoints: | Nagar Tshang, Chhulung Ri, Kala Pathar and Gokyo Ri. |
| Villlages: | Namche, Khunjung, Khunde, Phortse and Pangboche. |
| Ethnic group: | Majority of Sherpas community. |
| Culture: | Buddisum. |
| Himalayan scenery: | Thamserku, Kusum Kangaru, Kwangde, Tabuche, Ama Dablam,Kangtenga, Mt. Cho Oyu, Gyachungkang, Mt. Makalu, Island Peak, Peak 14, Peak 38, Nuptse, Lhotse, Everest, Pumari and Khubutse. |
| The Lakes: | Chola Tsho, Imja Tsho and 1st of 6th Gokyo Lakes. |
Three High Passes Trek is a demanding route in Nepal’s Everest region. Long daily hikes at high altitudes are the main challenge, and the three mountain passes above 5,000 meters make it even more demanding, requiring thorough preparation. The trek forms a circuit through remote valleys and high passes, shaped by glaciers and rugged terrain. It also includes cultural sites, panoramic viewpoints, ice fields, and iconic mountains, offering a rich Himalayan experience. Prior experience with multi-day trekking and excellent fitness are strongly recommended to complete this adventurous route safely and enjoyably.
First, take the 30-minute flight from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to Lukla Airstrip, though flights are highly weather-dependent and often delayed or cancelled. From Lukla, continue to Namche Bazaar, often called the Sherpa capital, before beginning the counter-clockwise circuit of the Three High Passes Trek. Some trekkers choose to drive to Ramechhap and fly from there, or start on foot from lower villages such as Jiri or Phaplu for a longer trek. This route offers a first glimpse of snowy mountains shining in the sunrise light, especially if you get a window seat on the left, as the small plane weaves between dramatic Himalayan peaks. Lukla Airport, with its short, sloping runway, is thrilling and memorable.
To acclimatise, spend two nights each in Namche, Dingboche Village, and Chhukung. At each location, take short hikes to higher elevations, stay hydrated, and monitor your well-being as you enjoy the scenery. Ascend gradually, rest as needed, and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness, including headache, nausea, loss of appetite, or dizziness. If you experience any of these, stop and rest, descend if necessary, and wait until you recover before continuing. After leaving Chhukung, continue at a steady pace, drink water regularly, and cross Kongma La at 5,535 meters on the way to Lobuche for a safe and rewarding journey.
Start in Lobuche and head north along the Khumbu Glacier Ridge to reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters. After visiting Base Camp, spend the night in Gorakshep. The next morning, climb Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) for sunrise views of Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha. Then leave the Everest Base Camp Trek and continue toward Dzongla Valley, marking the transition to the following segment of your journey.
Cho La is one of the most challenging passes. It has a snowy summit, slippery sections, and a short rock scramble near the top. From Dzongla, cross Cho La Pass (5,330 meters), continue to Thangnak, and then go from Thangnak to Gokyo Lake (4,850 meters). This trek suits those with previous high-altitude trekking experience and comfort in exposed mountain environments. Essential gear includes micro spikes for icy terrain, sturdy trekking poles, warm layers, and waterproof gloves. Snow or ice can increase the difficulty, and the steep descent calls for watchful footing.
We spend two nights in Gokyo Valley, visiting Fifth Lake at 5,030 meters and ascending Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters. From the summit, we enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. The lakes, Ngozumba Glacier, and neighbouring peaks leave a lasting impression.
Next, we cross Renjo La, our third high pass at 5,360 meters, and continue through the Bhote Koshi Valley. Enjoy views of Everest, Gokyo Lake, and Nangpa La, a 5,700-meter pass on the trade route to Tibet. Finally, descend to Lukla and complete the Three High Passes Trek.
The Three High Passes trek usually takes 17 to 21 days, though the route and pace can change that. Adjust to the altitude while enjoying different scenery and crossing the trek’s mountain passes. After you finish the trek, you can fly from Lukla to Ramechhap or Kathmandu the next day.
The best times for the Three High Passes trek are March to May and September to December, when the weather is usually clear and stable. Enjoy great mountain views and comfortable temperatures on the trek.
Cost & Dates:
The following costs and dates are per person for online booking. If the 3 High Passes Trek departure dates do not match your needs, please DM us, and we will be happy to customise your trip for the date that works best for you.
If you are in a group (2 to 15 people), we offer a discount on the package.
Trip departure dates:| Trip Date | Trip Name | Price | Space Left | Status | - |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Sep 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 28 Sep 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 5 Oct 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 12 Oct 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 19 Oct 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 26 Oct 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 2 Nov 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 9 Nov 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 16 Nov 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 23 Nov 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 30 Nov 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 7 Dec 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 14 Dec 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 21 Dec 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 28 Dec 2026 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 7 Mar 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 14 Mar 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 21 Mar 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 28 Mar 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 4 Apr 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 11 Apr 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 18 Apr 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 25 Apr 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 2 May 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 9 May 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 16 May 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 23 May 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 30 May 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 19 Sep 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 26 Sep 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 3 Oct 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 10 Oct 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 17 Oct 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 24 Oct 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 31 Oct 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 7 Nov 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 14 Nov 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 21 Nov 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 28 Nov 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 5 Dec 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 12 Dec 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 19 Dec 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open | |
| 26 Dec 2027 | Three High Passes Trek | $1,850 per person | 15 | Open |
More info for extra cost:
Please read the cost carefully, including and not including the above. All meals are included, along with tea and coffee, while on the trek. We do not provide drinking water, which can be purchased at the lodge for $1 to $3 per litre. You can opt for water-purifying tablets as a more affordable solution. Wi-Fi, battery charges, and hot showers are omitted. Wi-Fi is $6 per card. Battery charging costs $1 to $4 per hour per device (a power bank can be a cheaper solution). The gas shower is $3 to $7 per head.
If the Lukla flight is cancelled due to weather conditions, you are responsible for any additional hotel nights and meals in Kathmandu and Lukla for the extra days. You do not need to pay an extra fee to reschedule the Lukla flight due to the weather cancellation. But there may be less priority for flight-cancelled passengers the following day. In the event of unexpected circumstances, such as weather-related flight cancellations, we offer an alternative trip.
We ensure the trekking staff are provided with warm enough equipment. We do our best for your safety. However, we suggest you buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers flight cancellation, medical treatment, and Helicopter rescue/emergency evacuation. Please purchase a policy covering trekking activities up to 5,550 meters for your trekking days.
Note: We offer down jackets and sleeping bags for rental. The rental fee is $1.5 per sleeping bag and down jacket per day.
Note: The names of other agencies are more similar to ours. Please remember that we are known as “High Camp Trekking.”