The Three High Passes Trek in the Everest region is a challenging and rewarding adventure for experienced trekkers. This trek takes you through three high-altitude mountain passes, each offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and an opportunity to explore remote parts of the Everest region. The trek is considered one of the most demanding and scenic routes in Nepal, attracting trekkers looking for more than just the typical Everest Base Camp trek.
Main Highlights of the Three High Passes Trek:
Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters / 17,585 feet):
This is the first of the three passes. The Renjo La Pass provides stunning views of Mount Everest, Makalu, and other surrounding peaks.
The trek from Gokyo Lake to Renjo La is a tough climb, but once at the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Everest region.
Gokyo Lakes, which is part of the Gokyo Valley, is a major highlight before crossing this pass.
Cho La Pass (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet):
This is the second pass and is located between the Gokyo Valley and the Everest Base Camp area. It’s often considered one of the most challenging parts of the trek due to steep ascents and descents, especially in the winter when the pass can be snow-covered.
The views from the top of Cho La Pass, including views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, are unforgettable.
Kongma La Pass (5,535 meters / 18,159 feet):
The third and highest pass, Kongma La, is a strenuous trek, but it rewards trekkers with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
The trail to this pass is rugged and steep, making it the most challenging of the three.
Itinerary Overview:
The trek generally lasts between 18-21 days, depending on the pace and rest days taken during the trek. Here’s a basic outline of the itinerary:
Day 1-2: Arrive in Kathmandu and prepare for the trek.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla, then trek to Phakding.
Day 4-5: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (the gateway to the Everest region), allowing time for acclimatization.
Day 6-7: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche and then to Dingboche, further acclimatizing.
Day 8: Rest day in Dingboche or explore the surrounding area.
Day 9-10: Trek from Dingboche to Gokyo via the Gokyo Lakes.
Day 11-12: Cross Renjo La Pass, then trek to Lungden.
Day 13-14: Trek from Lungden to Dzongla.
Day 15-16: Cross Cho La Pass to reach the Everest Base Camp area and continue to Lobuche.
Day 17-18: Cross Kongma La Pass and descend to Pheriche or Dingboche.
Day 19: Trek back to Namche Bazaar.
Day 20-21: Descend to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu.
Difficulty Level:
The Three High Passes Trek is demanding and requires a good level of physical fitness.
Acclimatization is essential due to the high altitudes, so trekkers should be prepared for potential altitude sickness.
Some technical skills may be helpful, particularly when crossing the Cho La Pass (which may involve scrambling over rocks or crossing glaciers, depending on conditions).
Best Time to Trek:
The best times to do the Three High Passes Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally clear, and the temperatures are more manageable.
Winter and monsoon should be avoided due to the risk of snow and rain, which can make the passes more difficult and dangerous to cross.
Preparation and Gear:
Physical Fitness: Train before the trek to ensure you are physically prepared for the high altitudes and the strenuous trek.
Clothing: Bring clothing suitable for cold weather, including warm layers, waterproof gear, and good trekking boots.
Altitude Awareness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take your time to acclimatize properly.
The Three High Passes Trek is an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Everest region, offering challenging terrain and stunning views. It’s ideal for trekkers who want to push their limits and explore some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Himalayas, all while avoiding the crowds of the traditional & Classic Everest Base Camp Trek.