Three Passes (Everest)
Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La — three 5,000m+ passes plus EBC. Best on a full acclimatised schedule.
Overview
The Everest Three Passes trek is the most complete and demanding loop in the Khumbu, linking the region’s three great high passes — Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m) and Renjo La (5,360 m) — with Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar and the Gokyo Lakes in a single circuit.
It is a serious high-altitude trek for fit, experienced trekkers, with long days, exposed passes that can hold snow and ice, and sustained time above 5,000 m. The reward is the fullest possible Everest experience, away from the crowds for much of the route.
Highlights
- ▸Three passes above 5,300 m: Kongma La, Cho La, Renjo La
- ▸Everest Base Camp and sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
- ▸The Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri
- ▸A complete, crowd-free circuit of the Khumbu
- ▸Spectacular high-mountain scenery in every direction
What's included — from $2,400
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- ✓All teahouse / lodge accommodation on the trail
- ✓Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while trekking
- ✓All trekking permits and conservation-area fees
- ✓Ground transport between the city and the trailhead
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and official paperwork
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal
- ✕Nepal entry visa fee
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking gear and clothing
- ✕Meals and accommodation in cities / on rest days
- ✕Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging and bottled water on the trail
- ✕Tips for your guide and porter
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed as included
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Three Passes trek cost in 2026?
A guided Everest Three Passes trek typically costs USD 1,600–2,100 per person — more than EBC because it is longer (18–21 days) and more demanding. Includes guide, porter, lodging, meals and permits; Lukla flights vary.
How hard is the Three Passes trek?
It is the hardest standard Khumbu trek — graded Strenuous-plus. Expect long days, three icy passes over 5,300 m and weeks at altitude. Excellent fitness, prior high-altitude experience and the right gear are strongly recommended.
How many days does the Three Passes trek take?
Typically 18–21 days round trip from Lukla, including acclimatisation and weather buffer days for the passes.
What permits do I need?
The Sagarmatha National Park permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit, plus a licensed guide. Lekaly arranges them.
When is the best time for the Three Passes trek?
October–November and April–May. The high passes can be blocked by snow outside these windows, so timing and a flexible itinerary matter more than on lower treks.
Related treks
Plan Three Passes (Everest) with Lekaly
Get this itinerary, offline maps, verified teahouse contacts and permit help in the Lekaly app — or request a quote from vetted local agencies.