The Everest region in Nepal is home to some of the most adventurous and scenic trekking routes in the world. Among them, the Everest Three Pass Trek stands out for its physical demands, breathtaking landscapes, and the sense of accomplishment it brings. One of the most common questions from first-time trekkers is, “What is the three pass in Everest?” This refers to three high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m)—that together form a circular route through the heart of the Khumbu region. These passes connect the main valleys and offer access to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and a variety of Sherpa villages, creating one of the most complete trekking experiences in the Himalayas.
A Journey Through the Heart of Khumbu
The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small airstrip perched high in the mountains. From there, the route follows the Dudh Kosi River valley through beautiful forests and across suspension bridges to reach Namche Bazaar. This bustling Sherpa town is the main hub of the Khumbu region and a perfect place for acclimatization. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, the Three Pass Trek takes you off the main route and into quieter, more remote areas, where the landscape feels untouched and wild.
After Namche, the trail gradually ascends through Tengboche and Dingboche, offering early views of Ama Dablam and other peaks. The first major challenge is the crossing of Kongma La Pass, the highest of the three. It is often snow-covered and requires a long, steady climb, but the views from the top are spectacular, with vistas of surrounding glaciers and peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. From here, the trail descends to Lobuche and eventually reaches Everest Base Camp, the iconic goal for many trekkers.
Crossing High Passes and Reaching Hidden Valleys
The second pass, Cho La, is one of the most exciting and technically interesting sections of the trek. After visiting Base Camp and climbing Kala Patthar for stunning views of Mount Everest, trekkers make their way toward the icy trail leading to the Cho La crossing. This route includes glacier travel, rocky scrambles, and a steep descent into the Gokyo Valley. The effort is well worth it, as the emerald-blue Gokyo Lakes and the viewpoint of Gokyo Ri offer some of the best panoramas in the entire Everest region.
The final pass, Renjo La, connects the Gokyo Valley with the remote Bhote Koshi Valley. This stretch of the trek is quieter, with fewer tourists and a more peaceful atmosphere. The climb to Renjo La is gradual but long, and from the top, trekkers are rewarded with wide views of the Everest range, including Everest itself, glistening above a sea of snow-capped peaks. The descent leads to the tranquil village of Thame and eventually loops back to Namche Bazaar, completing the full circuit.
Physical Demands and Acclimatization
The Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most physically demanding treks in Nepal. The multiple days above 5,000 meters require excellent cardiovascular fitness, strong legs, and careful acclimatization. Altitude sickness is a real concern, so most trekkers take several rest days along the way and follow a slow ascent. Even experienced hikers find the high passes challenging, particularly in snowy or windy conditions. Hiring a knowledgeable guide can be extremely helpful for safety and navigation.
Best Time to Trek
The ideal seasons for the Everest Three Pass Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the skies are generally clear, temperatures are moderate, and the mountain views are spectacular. Winter brings severe cold and deep snow, making the passes risky or impassable, while summer sees frequent rain and slippery trails due to the monsoon.
An Adventure Worth Every Step
The Everest Three Pass Trek is much more than a walk to Everest Base Camp. It is a full-circle journey through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Himalayas, offering not just physical challenge but also deep cultural immersion in the Sherpa heartland. For experienced trekkers seeking a true test of endurance, variety, and beauty, this trek is one of the most rewarding adventures in the world.