Complete Three Passes Trek guide: 18-22 days crossing Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La — combining EBC and Gokyo Lakes into one epic Himalayan circuit.
Quick Answer
Three Passes Trek takes 18–22 days crossing Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,345m) combining EBC and Gokyo Lakes. Cost: $1,800–$3,000. For experienced trekkers only with excellent fitness and 4 rest days. Best seasons: October–November and April–May only.
Three Passes: The Ultimate Khumbu Circuit
The Three Passes Trek is the most challenging and rewarding trek in the Khumbu region — crossing three high passes above 5300m (Kongma La 5535m, Cho La 5420m, Renjo La 5345m) while combining Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes into one 18-22 day circuit. Fewer than 5% of Khumbu trekkers attempt the Three Passes, making much of the route refreshingly uncrowded.
Route and Day-by-Day Overview
The classic counter-clockwise route: Days 1-4: Lukla to Namche to Tengboche with acclimatization. Days 5-7: Dingboche with acclimatization. Day 8: Kongma La Pass (5535m) to Lobuche. Days 9-10: Gorak Shep, EBC, Kala Patthar sunrise. Days 11-12: Cho La Pass (5420m) to Dragnag. Days 13-15: Gokyo, Gokyo Ri summit (5357m). Day 16: Renjo La Pass (5345m) to Lungden. Days 17-19: Descend to Namche, Lukla.
Fitness Requirements and Who Should Attempt This
The Three Passes Trek is rated 'extreme' and requires excellent physical fitness, previous high-altitude trekking experience, and strong mental resilience. You'll spend 18+ days above 3500m with three consecutive days crossing passes above 5300m. NOT suitable for beginners, families with young children, or trekkers without altitude experience. A certified guide is strongly recommended.
Permits, Costs, and Equipment
Permits: Sagarmatha NP Permit ($30) + TIMS Card ($20). Lukla flights $150-220 return. Total cost: $1800-$3000. Equipment must include: expedition-grade down jacket, crampons, Cat 4 glacier glasses, 4-season sleeping bag (-20°C), and satellite communicator for emergencies. Proper mountaineering boots are non-negotiable.
Plan Your Three Passes Expedition
SnapTrip's Himalayan Trek Planner generates detailed itineraries with daily altitude profiles and pass-crossing logistics. Book an experienced Sherpa guide through our Book a Guide feature — local expertise on the passes is invaluable. This is the trek of a lifetime. Start at SnapTrip.
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