Grade: Very Challenging | Location: Nepal | Maximum altitude of: 5545 m
| Duration:14 - 24 Days
Hey everyone! I want to tell you about an amazing trek I experienced. It was unforgettable because I got to see stunning views at the top of the world in a nearby destination. In this post, I'm sharing my research and adventure with fellow enthusiasts. Get ready for an incredible journey as we explore the magic of the Exploring Everest's 3 Passes. Brace yourself for breathtaking views, push your limits, and create lasting memories in the heart of the mighty Himalayas.
The Exploring Everest's 3 Passes Trek in a nutshell: It's perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. You'll trek through three jaw-dropping mountain passes—Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La—each offering spellbinding views.
HIGHLIGHTS
Duration - Traditionally spanning 2 to 3 weeks.
Max. Elevation - 5,545 meters at Kala Patthar.
Difficulty - Very Challenging.
Accommodation - Along the route, trekkers stay in teahouses, providing a cozy and communal atmosphere.
To trek in the Everest Region Three Passes, you'll need two permits:
1. KHUMBU RURAL MUNICIPALITY PERMIT
Foreign nationals, including SAARC citizens, pay NPR 2,000 for the first four weeks, increasing to Rs. 2,500 afterward (No VAT).
Obtain this permit in Lukla if flying, or in Monjo at the Sagarmatha National Park Counter for those arriving from Jiri or Salleri.
Important: No alternative offices in Kathmandu issue this permit.
2. SAGARMATHA NATIONAL PARK ENTRY PERMIT.
Foreign nationals pay NPR 3,000; SAARC nationals pay NPR 1,500; Nepalis pay NPR 100, with an additional 13% VAT.
Passport required for this permit; children under 10 enter for free.
( Note: The permit prices I mentioned are as of the last update in 2023. For any new updates, please check with the Government of Nepal, Ministry of Home Affairs )
HOW TO REACH:
Arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal.
The most common and popular way to travel from Kathmandu to Lukla is by air. Flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are operated from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). The airlines that commonly operate flights to Lukla include:
Yeti Airlines
Buddha Air
Simrik Airlines
Sita Air
Goma Air
These airlines offer daily flights to Lukla, but schedules can be subject to weather conditions. The flight is relatively short, taking about 25 to 30 minutes, and it provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
To reach Jiri from Kathmandu, opt for a bus or private vehicle, enduring a several-hour journey with variable road conditions. Alternatively, combine bus and jeep travel for flexibility.
Guide and porter
Licensing a guide and porter is optional for this trip. For added comfort and assistance, they can be easily hired in Lukla or Jiri instead of Kathmandu. If you prefer self-organization, it's feasible to arrange along the trek route.
Map View from Lukla to Lukla:
BRIEF ITINERARY:
TREK ITINERARY FROM LUKLA- EVEREST REGION THREE PASSES ( WITH FLIGHT )
DAY 1
ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m).
Explore the cultural and historical landmarks in Kathmandu.
DAY 2
FLY TO LUKLA, TREK TO PHAKDING (2,610m)
Morning flight to Lukla.
Trek to Phakding 3 - 4 hours.
Phakding offers serene views of the Dudh Koshi River.
DAY 3
NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,440m)
Trek to Namche Bazaar 5 - 6 hours.
Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest, provides panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
DAY 4
NAMCHE BAZAAR (ACCLIMATIZATION DAY)
Rest day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization.
Explore the Sherpa Cultural Museum and enjoy stunning views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
DAY 5
TENGBOCHE (3,870m)
Trek to Tengboche 4 - 5 hours.
Tengboche Monastery offers breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
DAY 6
DINGBOCHE (4,410m)
Trek to Dingboche 5 - 7 hours.
Dingboche is surrounded by beautiful landscapes with views of Island Peak and Lhotse.
Enjoy the stunning views of Ama Dablam and explore nearby viewpoints.
DAY 7
CHUKHUNG (4,730m)
Trek to Chukhung 3 - 4 hours.
Acclimatization day in Chukhung.
Chukhung Valley offers close-up views of Island Peak and the Lhotse wall.
DAY 8
CHUKHUNG (REST DAY)
Rest day in Chukhung.
Explore the stunning Chukhung Ri for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
DAY 9
LOBUCHE VIA KONGMA LA PASS (5,535m)
Trek to Lobuche 6 - 8 hours.
Kongma La Pass provides panoramic views of the Everest region.
DAY 10
GORAK SHEP VIA EVEREST BASE CAMP (5,380m)
Trek to Gorak Shep 3 - 4 hours.
Everest Base Camp offers an up-close view of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks.
DAY 11
GORAK SHEP TO KALA PATTHAR (5,545m)
Trek to Kala Patthar 3 - 4 hours.
Kala Patthar provides one of the best views of the Everest region, including all the highest peaks and the Khumbu Glacier. You can arrange a trek based on weather conditions for sunrise views or sunset views.
DAY 12
DZONGLA (4,200m)
Trek to Dzongla 4 - 5 hours.
Dzongla offers beautiful views of the Ama Dablam.
DAY 13
GOKYO VIA CHO LA PASS (5,420m)
Trek to Gokyo 8 - 9 hours.
This is the most challenging day of the trek. Also, Cho La Pass offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
DAY 14
GOKYO (REST DAY, VISIT GOKYO RI, 5,330m)
Rest day in Gokyo with an optional visit to Gokyo Ri 4 - 5 hours.
Gokyo Ri provides breathtaking panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu. You can arrange a trek based on weather conditions for sunrise views or sunset views.
DAY 15
LUNGDE VIA RENJO LA PASS (5,340m)
Trek to Lungde 6 - 7 hours.
Renjo La Pass offers a fantastic panorama of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
DAY 16
THAME (3,800m)
Trek to Thame 4 - 5 hours.
Thame is a traditional Sherpa village with a monastery.
DAY 17
NAMCHE BAZAAR (3,440m)
Trek to Namche Bazaar 4 - 5 hours.
Namche Bazaar provides an opportunity for shopping and experiencing the local culture.
DAY 18
LUKLA VIA PHAKDING (2,850m)
Trek to Lukla 5 - 6 hours.
Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, offers a sense of accomplishment.
DAY 19
DEPART KATHMANDU
TREK ITINERARY FROM JIRI ( Without Flight)
Note: Please be aware that both itineraries are designed for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Feel free to customize them to better suit your preferences and physical fitness. If you're up for a more challenging adventure, you can condense the schedule to around 18 days, taking into consideration your physical fitness and mental health. However, due to time constraints, I followed the Lukla itinerary to complete this trek within 15 days.
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
This is the most famous trek because of Everest, so you don't need to worry about accommodation and meals; everything is available on this trek. There are sufficient tea houses for a comfortable stay, and food is readily available. If you prefer, you can also carry your personal tent. While food costs may increase with elevation, it is advisable to stick to a minimum budget for your stay.
BEST TIME TO TREK
SPRING (PRE-MONSOON):
MARCH TO MAY
ADVANTAGES:
Mild temperatures during the day make trekking comfortable.
Blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers create a colorful landscape.
Clear skies and excellent visibility for mountain views.
Moderate temperatures at higher altitudes.
CONSIDERATIONS:
Popular trekking season, so trails and teahouses might be busier.
Higher chances of obtaining clear views, but weather can still be unpredictable.
Autumn (Post-Monsoon): September to November
AUTUMN (POST-MONSOON):
SEPTEMBER TO NOVEMBER
ADVANTAGES:
Stable weather conditions with clear skies and excellent visibility.
Mild temperatures, making it comfortable for trekking.
Post-monsoon, providing clearer views of the landscape.
CONSIDERATIONS:
High demand for permits and accommodations, especially in popular trekking areas.
Cooler temperatures at higher elevations, especially towards November.
During these seasons, the weather is relatively stable, and the views of the Himalayas are usually stunning. Trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides. Winter (December to February) is also not the ideal time as the temperatures are extremely cold, and high-altitude passes may be closed due to snow.
DIFFICULTIES:
The Everest Region Three Passes Trek presents challenges such as high altitudes, unpredictable weather, technical pass crossings, long and strenuous days, basic facilities in remote areas, permit regulations, isolation, and the need for physical and mental stamina. Adequate preparation, acclimatization, and experienced guidance are essential for a successful and safe trek.
NECESSARY ACCESSORIES:
High-Quality Down Jacket-
Provides essential insulation in cold temperatures at high altitudes.
Lightweight and compressible for easy packing.
Lower Layers-
Thermal Base layers, Hiking Pants - Comfortable, quick-drying pants suitable for various terrains, Insulated Pants.
Waterproof Shell Pants-
Protection against rain and snow.
High-Quality Trekking Boots-
Provide support on varied terrain.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing-
Layered clothing for changing temperatures.
Backpack with Rain Cover-
To carry essentials with weather protection.
Sleeping Bag-
Suitable for sub-zero temperatures.(A sleeping bag is not necessary as tea houses provide warm blankets. However, if you prioritize hygiene, it's advisable to carry your sleeping bag.)
Trekking Poles- Assist in balance and reduce strain.
Headlamp/Flashlight-
Essential for dark sections of the trail.
Water Purification-
To stay hydrated with safe water.
Sun Protection-
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
First Aid Kit-
Including altitude sickness medication.
Trekking Map and Compass-
Navigation aids in remote areas.
Power Bank-
Ensure a charged device for communication.