Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of Nepal’s most complete and challenging trekking adventures. Over 18 days, it takes you deep into the Sagarmatha National Park, combining the Everest Base Camp route with three iconic high-altitude passes. Moreover, this journey offers unmatched Himalayan scenery, diverse landscapes, and an authentic cultural experience with the Sherpa people. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, this circuit pushes further. You will cross Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) to unlock spectacular panoramas of the world’s tallest mountains, making this trek a true test of endurance and spirit.

Beginning the Journey: Lukla to Namche

Your adventure starts with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800 m), the gateway to the Khumbu region. From Lukla, the trail winds through Sherpa villages and crosses the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. Soon, you arrive at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the bustling hub of the Khumbu. Namche is not only a trading center but also an important acclimatization stop. Here, you can enjoy views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku while adjusting to higher altitudes.

Towards Everest Base Camp

From Namche, the trail leads higher through Tengboche and Dingboche. The first great challenge of the trek is Kongma La Pass (5,535 m). It is the toughest of the three passes, offering sweeping views of Makalu and the Khumbu Glacier. The route then descends toward Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), where climbers from around the world gather each season. A sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) gives you the most iconic view of Everest, bathed in golden light.

Crossing Cho La and Exploring Gokyo

Next comes the second pass, Cho La (5,420 m). This dramatic crossing often requires walking across a glacier, adding an element of adventure. The descent brings you into the pristine Gokyo Valley, home to the famous Gokyo Lakes. These six turquoise lakes are considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. From the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), trekkers enjoy breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in Nepal.

The Final Challenge: Renjo La Pass

The last pass, Renjo La (5,360 m), rewards trekkers with some of the most stunning Himalayan vistas. From its summit, you can see four 8,000-meter peaks—Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—standing tall above countless smaller mountains. Furthermore, the descent from Renjo La brings you to Thame, a quiet Sherpa village with historic monasteries. Finally, the route circles back to Lukla, completing this extraordinary circuit.

Best Seasons for the Everest Three Passes Trek

a. Spring (March–May): Mild weather, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons make this one of the best times.

b. Autumn (September–November): The most popular season with stable weather, warm days, and excellent mountain visibility.

c. Winter (December–February): Less crowded, but very cold. Proper gear and preparation are essential.

d. Summer (June–August): Monsoon rains make trails slippery and cloud the views, so it is the least recommended season.

Why Choose the Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek?

This 18-Day trek is ideal for adventurers seeking more than just Everest Base Camp. Besides, it combines high passes, sacred lakes, cultural immersion, and unparalleled Himalayan views. While challenging, it remains accessible to fit trekkers with proper acclimatization and determination. With its perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and culture, the Everest Three Passes Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Nepal’s Himalayas.

Trek Map

Everest Three Passes Trek

Additional information on Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek:

Dossier disclaimer:

This trip details here are compiled with due diligence and provided in good faith. However, please be aware that information contained herein is subject to alteration and does not form a contractual agreement between the client and Cordial Trek Pvt. Ltd. The published itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We are always committed to providing you with an enriching and enjoyable trip.

Booking your Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek:

We are offering maximum flexibility for our guests’ convenience to book their trips into the Everest region for 2026, 2027, and 2028. You may thus choose a date that best suits your schedule. Regarding your booking, please select one of the two available options. You may either pay USD 100 per person as a deposit amount to confirm your trip or pay the full amount upfront. If you opt for the deposit, the remaining is payable via Online / Card Swipe / Cash. We accept all convertible currencies including USD, AUD, CAD, EURO, GBP, SGD, etc. when you arrive in Kathmandu.

Booking your International Flight:

For your Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek, you should plan to arrive in Kathmandu on Day 1 and depart on Day 18. However, the Lukla flights can be canceled due to adverse weather, so having some extra one or two buffer days can prevent any issues with your return tickets.

Checklist for Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek:

Please click here for a complete checklist of your Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek. Be sure to read it carefully and pack accordingly as per your personal preferences.

Arrival information:

Once you’ve booked your flight ticket, please share the details with us. Our airport representatives will then be waiting for you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, holding our official name ‘Cordial Trek’ and your nameplate as you exit the airport terminal. Additionally, if you’re arriving earlier, we can arrange accommodation for extra nights and add-on tours as well for additional cost and provide complimentary airport pickup.

Flight to Lukla and return:

During the peak season, typically from mid-March to mid-May in spring and late September to late November in autumn, flights to Lukla and back operate from Ramechhap airport. At other times of the year, they depart from Kathmandu. We will however arrange the approximately 4-hour drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap Airport at no additional cost. Optionally you may as well book a direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport with additional costs (USD 400).

Trek starting and ending days:

The actual trekking days are from Day 2 to Day 16. You’ll fly to Lukla on Day 2 to commence the trek and return to Lukla on Day 16. On Day 17, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu and be transferred to your hotel. Expect to spend 15 nights and 15 days completing the Everest Three Passes Trek. You’ll begin your trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp including three high passes Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La. The overnight stays will be in villages including Phakding, Namche, Deboche, Dingboche, Chhukhung, Lobuche, Gorakshep, Dzongla, Gokyo, Lungden, Thame and Lukla. Moreover, each day’s trek will begin around 07:30 AM and conclude in the late afternoon with frequent breaks to catch your breath. You’ll have numerous photo opportunities along the way and enjoy breakfast and dinner at the same place, while lunch is en route.

Additionally, your guide will provide you with regular briefings about timing and stops every morning before the trek begins.

Accommodation in Kathmandu:

In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in 3 Star Category Hotels with twin / double sharing beds.

Accommodation in the Mountains:

During the trek, your accommodation options are teahouses. Although basic, these Everest tea houses are clean and provide a comfortable place for a good night’s rest.

Food during the trip:

In Kathmandu, your package includes breakfast only, typically served buffet-style except on the day of your Lukla flight, when you’ll receive a packed breakfast. During the trek, you will be provided with full board meals and may choose from a menu offering local and international cuisines.

Note: It is highly advisable to stick to vegetarian food from your arrival in Kathmandu until the end of your trek, as proper toilet facilities are not available everywhere along the trail.

Baggage and weight limit:

On your flight to Lukla, the total baggage weight allowance is 15 kgs, combining both checked and carry-on baggage. Ensure you pack approximately 10/11 kilos in your checked bag and 5/4 kilos in your carry-on to stay within the 15-kilo limit. If you have items you don’t need on the trek, you can leave them at the Kathmandu hotel for storage at no cost. Remember to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.

Drinking water during the trek:

Bottled water is available along the trail; however, we highly encourage bringing your own reusable water bottles to minimize single-use plastic waste. To ensure safe drinking water, we will be happy to provide water treatment pills at no additional cost. You may also use flavorings to improve the taste. Staying properly hydrated is crucial during the trek, so aim to drink at least 3 liters of water each day to maintain energy and support your body at high altitudes.

Electricity, Charging and Wi-Fi:

Please keep in mind that you’re embarking on a trek to the Everest region and not exploring urban areas. While some facilities like charging and Wi-Fi are available at an extra cost, they are not guaranteed. We also recommend against planning to work or conduct online meetings during the trek, allowing you to fully enjoy the mountain experience.

Cash for extras and tipping:

You should have Nepali rupees for expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled drinks and Wi-Fi. Plan to carry about USD 200 to 300 equivalent Nepali rupees. Additionally, set aside 150-200 USD for tipping your guide and porter. The amount can vary based on the level of service provided by the field staff members.

Availability of Guide & Porter:

Every two travelers will be provided with a single porter and an experienced guide. The baggage however must be divided between 12.5 kgs each as every porter carries a maximum of 25 kgs. Both guide and porter will be insured and well equipped with necessary items and first aid kit.

Highlights of Everest Three Passes 18-Day Trek:

1. Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)

2. Trek via three of the highest passes in the world (all above 5,000 m)

3. A thrilling flight to and from Lukla Airport

4. Trek inside Sagarmatha National Park

5. Explore Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri Peak

6. Experience Sherpa culture and traditions

7. Chance to unravel the mysteries of abominable Yeti