For those seeking the wild and less-traveled areas of The Khumbu while also exploring Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Everest Base Camp, the Three Peaks and Three Passes trek is ideal. This route, longer and more challenging than the standard Base Camp trek, involves crossing three passes above 5300m and ascending three peaks over 5400m.
The Passes include Renjo La (5388m), Cho La (5380m), and Kongma La (5535m). Alongside crossing these passes, trekkers ascend three walking peaks: Gokyo Ri (5483m), Kala Pattar (5545m), and Chukkung Ri (5550m), each offering uniquely different views of the Everest massif. This adventurous trek provides ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts interested in capturing some of the world’s highest peaks.
Our Nepal Himalayan Adventure Everest ‘Three Peaks and Three Passes’ trek commences in Lukla, proceeding to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, before venturing west to Thame and the remote Nangpa La, a well-used crossing point for traders between Tibet and Nepal.
The first pass, Renjo La, leads trekkers into the Gokyo Valley for a rest day by the third Gokyo Lake. From there, the route ascends Gokyo Ri, offering the best views of Everest according to many.
The trek then traverses the Ngozumpa Glacier before reaching the beginning of the next high pass, Cho La. Crossing Cho La involves a steep ascent to the actual pass, which is often icy, before descending into the Khumbu Valley.
Once on the Khumbu side of Cho La, the trek continues to Lobuche and Gorak Shep. Kala Pattar is the second peak, followed by a visit to Everest Base Camp. The route then retraces back to Lobuche before heading east over Kongma La to Chukkung.
From Chukkung, the route ascends Chukkung Ri (5550m) nestled under the mighty Nuptse-Lhotse wall. This vantage point offers fantastic views of the North Ridge of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu.
The trek concludes by descending the main Everest trail and visiting the monastery at Tengbouche before passing through Namche Bazaar en route to Lukla.
The challenging nature of this trek requires preparedness for long, strenuous days, although it is feasible for fit trekkers.
Trip Highlights
- Category: Nepal Himalaya Adventure trek
- Region: Khumbu, Nepal
- Grade: Challenging (Grade 4)
- Duration: Minimum 21 days of trekking
- Maximum altitude: 5550m
- Accommodation: Lodges
Itinerary for Three Peaks, Three Passes Trek (Everest Region)
This 23-day itinerary is a challenging trek in the Khumbu region of Nepal, culminating in a climb of Gokyo Ri (5,367m) and Kala Pattar (5,643m), offering stunning views of Mount Everest (8,848m).
Days 1-2: Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Spend a day exploring the city’s temples, palaces, and gardens. Prepare for your trek by purchasing any necessary supplies.
Day 3: Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m), the gateway to the Everest region. Trek to Phakding (2,610m), a small village nestled in the Dudh Kosi Valley.
Days 4-5: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), a bustling Sherpa trading town and gateway to the upper Everest region. Spend two days acclimatizing to the altitude by exploring the town and its surrounding villages.
Day 6: Trek to Thame (3,800m), a traditional Sherpa village located in the Thame Valley. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas and learn about Sherpa culture.
Day 7: Trek to Lungden (4,380m), a small village with a gompa (monastery) and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 8: Acclimatization day in Chhuklung (4,730m). Take a short hike to nearby viewpoints or explore the village.
Day 9: Trek to Gokyo (5,367m) via Renjo La pass (5,360m). Gokyo is a group of villages with stunning views of the Ngozumpa Glacier and the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Day 10: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,367m) for panoramic views of the Everest region. Enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayas before descending back to Gokyo.
Day 11: Trek to Thangna (4,690m) across the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.
Day 12: Cross Cho La pass (5,420m) to Lobuche (4,910m), a challenging day with stunning views.
Days 13-14: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,164m), the starting point for the climb of Kala Pattar. Spend a day acclimatizing and enjoying the views of Everest and other peaks.
Day 15: Climb Kala Pattar (5,643m) for the best views of Everest in the entire trek. Descend to Lobuche.
Day 16: Cross Kongma La pass (5,535m) to Chhuklung. This is another challenging day with breathtaking views.
Day 17: Final rest day in Chhuklung. Relax and enjoy the views before starting your descent.
Day 18: Ascend Chhuklung Ri (5,463m) for more amazing views of the Everest region. Descend back to Chhuklung.
Days 19-22: Trek back down the valley, stopping at Pangbouche (3,930m), Namche Bazaar, and Phakding. Enjoy the changing scenery and the opportunity to reflect on your adventure.
Day 23: Fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Depart Nepal or spend more time exploring the city.
Overall, this is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and an unforgettable experience in the Everest region.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- This is a demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and experience.
- Make sure to properly acclimatize to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
- Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions.
- Hire a qualified guide to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
