Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, has long captivated the hearts and minds of adventurers seeking to test their limits and push beyond the boundaries of human potential. While summiting Everest itself is a formidable challenge, there is a legendary route that incorporates three high mountain passes, known as the Three Passes trek. This article takes you on an exhilarating journey through the Everest region, exploring the awe-inspiring landscapes, the physical and mental demands, and the triumphs experienced by those who undertake this extraordinary adventure.
- The Three Passes Trek: The Three Passes trek is a remarkable route that traverses three challenging mountain passes in the Everest region of Nepal: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,340m). This route offers a unique and more demanding alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp trek, allowing trekkers to explore remote valleys, picturesque Sherpa villages, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
- Preparation and Training: Embarking on the Three Passes trek requires thorough preparation and physical fitness. Trekkers need to acclimatize to the high altitude, build endurance, and be mentally prepared for the rigors of the journey. Training often includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking in high-altitude environments to simulate the conditions faced during the trek.
- Kongma La Pass: The journey begins at Lukla, a small airstrip nestled amidst the Himalayas. From there, trekkers make their way to Everest Base Camp, passing through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. The first challenge of the Three Passes trek awaits at Kongma La Pass. Scaling this pass requires careful footwork, as trekkers negotiate steep ascents, icy slopes, and potentially adverse weather conditions.
- Cho La Pass: After descending from Kongma La Pass, trekkers continue towards the stunning Gokyo Valley, renowned for its turquoise lakes and panoramic views. The second pass, Cho La, presents its own set of challenges, including steep climbs, glacier crossings, and a physically demanding ascent to the pass itself. The reward, however, is a surreal panorama of snow-capped peaks and the awe-inspiring Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Renjo La Pass: Having conquered Cho La Pass, trekkers venture into the less frequented region of Thame, home to Sherpa culture and warm hospitality. The final challenge of the Three Passes trek awaits at Renjo La Pass. This pass offers breathtaking views of Everest, Nuptse, and other towering summits. The descent from Renjo La leads to the picturesque village of Thame, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the Sherpa way of life.
- Accomplishment and Reflection: Completing the Three Passes trek is an accomplishment that fills trekkers with a profound sense of achievement and awe. The journey tests not only physical endurance but also mental resilience and determination. Each pass conquered, each step taken, brings trekkers closer to the realization of their dreams and the humbling power of nature.
- The Rewards of the Journey: Beyond the physical challenges and stunning landscapes, the Three Passes trek offers trekkers a transformative experience. It provides a chance to witness the rich Sherpa culture, visit ancient monasteries, and interact with locals who have made these formidable mountains their home. The journey fosters a deep appreciation for nature’s grandeur and a sense of humility in the face of its immensity.
Trekking in Everest region
Group size of the Trek
Minimum one person
Maximum 15 person
Trek features :
- One of the best trekking adventure trip in Nepal
- spectacular mountain views of Everest ranges
- Rhododendron flowers forest, many types of orchids
- Old monasteries & pristine glaciers.
- Sherpa’s culture & practices.
Grade : Hard / strenuous
Elevation: Max. 5565m.(Kongma La pass )
Accommodation : Tea House/ Tented camp
Food: Continental
Equipment List
The requirement of equipment is diffrent for each trek. these are common requirment of personnel things for most of our treks. Please feel free to ask for advice we will provide you the best suggestion.
Clothing and Equipment Check List
- Pair of T-shirts and half pants
- Fleece jacket and warm Trousers
- Raincoats & water proof pants
- Down jacket
- Thermal underwear
- Windproof jacket
- Fleece/wool warm hat
- Baseball hat or sun hat
- Snow & sun glasses
- Fleece gloves
- Socks – 3/4 pairs
- Socks- woolen
- Trekking shoes
- Ligh sport shoes
- Small rucksack for daypack
- Waterbottle (metal )
- Kit Bag medium size
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Sleeping bag down ( -5-10 degree)
- Flash light & batteries
Personal things
- Small kit bag (valuable things can put inside , pocket knife )
- Sun Cream & lip care cream
- Moist towels for personal hygiene
Everest with 3 passes Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in kathmandu (1350m.) airport ,Pick up then transfer to Hotel.
Day 2: Full day Sight seeing in Kathmandu valley & Trekking preparation.
Trek started
Day 3: Fly to Lukla then trek to Phakding
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 5: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar
Day 6: Trek to Thame (3800m.)
Day 7: Trek to Marulung(4200m.)
Day 8: Trek to Renjo- la pass(5345m) then trek to Gokyo (4750m.)
Day 9: Hike to Gokyo RI (5400m), back to Gokyo & trek to Thanga (4710m.)
Day 10: Trek to chola -Pass(5420m.) then trek to Dzongla (4850m)
Day 11: Trek to Lobuche (4900m)
Day 12: Trek to Gorakshep (5160m), hike to Everest Base Camp (5380m)
Day 13: Hike to Kalapatthar (5545m), back to Lobuche (4900m)
Day 14: Trek to Chukung (4740m) via Kongma La Pass (5565m.).
Day 15: Trek to Pangboche (3900m)
Day 16: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m)
Day 17: Trek to Lukla (2805m)
Day 18: Fly to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel, farewell dinner in Nepali restaurant .
Trek finished
Day 19: Rest , shopping
Day 20: Fly out to the destination or Visit Pokhara & Chitwan (Really famous for crystal lake with panorama mountain views , Jungle safari & many more)