We had just crossed the third high pass when I looked back and saw the sun hitting the peaks behind us. The light turned the mountains golden, and for a moment, everything felt still. That moment, after days of walking, climbing, and adjusting to the altitude, made the Everest 3 Pass Trek feel like more than just a trail — it was a journey into something wild and rare.
What Is the Everest 3 Pass Trek?
The Everest 3 Pass Trek is one of the most complete and adventurous routes in the Everest region. It connects three high mountain passes:
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Kongma La (5,535 meters / 18,159 feet)
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Cho La (5,420 meters / 17,782 feet)
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Renjo La (5,360 meters / 17,585 feet)
Each pass offers a different view, a new challenge, and a fresh story. Along the way, we visited Everest Base Camp, walked beside the stunning Gokyo Lakes, and stood on Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest.
Trek Stats and Route Overview
This trek is long and tough, but if you’re looking for a true Himalayan adventure, it’s the one to do.
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Total Distance: About 160 kilometers (100 miles)
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Duration: 17 to 21 days
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Highest Point: Kala Patthar (5,545 meters / 18,192 feet)
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Main Stops: Lukla – Namche – Chukhung – Lobuche – Dzongla – Gokyo – Marlung – Lukla
We started and ended the trek in Lukla, after flying in from Kathmandu. From there, we followed the classic trail to Namche Bazaar, where we rested and adjusted to the altitude. Then, we took the clockwise route — hitting Kongma La first and Renjo La last — which many trekkers say is the most balanced way to go.
The Three Passes Experience
Each pass felt different. Kongma La was the wildest — no lodges between Chukhung and Lobuche, and the trail was rocky and raw. Cho La took us over a glacier and under hanging icicles. The wind howled, and it felt like walking through a frozen cathedral. Renjo La gave us the best views — a perfect panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes below.
We walked between 5 to 8 hours each day. Some days were easier; some days pushed our limits. But every day brought something new — a yak herd crossing a bridge, prayer flags dancing in the wind, or hot tea shared in a smoky teahouse.
Acclimatization and Trail Life
Altitude was a big factor. We planned rest days in places like Dingboche and Gokyo. This gave us time to breathe, explore nearby viewpoints, and recover. We drank lots of water, ate simple meals, and moved at a slow, steady pace.
The trail community kept us going — guides, porters, and other trekkers always had a smile or story to share. One evening, in a tiny lodge in Dzongla, we sat around the stove and listened to a local guide sing an old Sherpa song. That kind of moment doesn’t happen every day.
Why This Trek Stands Out
The Everest 3 Pass Trek is not just long — it’s layered. Every pass feels like a chapter in a book. The trail links forests, rivers, glaciers, and villages in a way that few treks can. It’s not just about Everest. It’s about everything around it.
If I had to describe the trek in one word, I’d call it elemental. It strips things down to what matters — warmth, breath, light, and footsteps. You carry your world on your back and learn to find joy in simple things.
Final Thoughts
The Everest 3 Pass Trek is for those who want more than just a glimpse of Everest. It’s a full-circle journey — long, hard, and unforgettable. We finished the trek stronger, calmer, and more connected to the mountains than ever before. If you're up for a challenge, this trek will give you more than you can imagine — and leave you wanting to return.
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