Everest Three Passes Trek - 19 Days
Everest Three Passes Trek is a demanding trek that thoroughly explores the Khumbu region, linking the central Everest and Gokyo trails with an additional trail to the east and the west. It is the ultimate trekking experience in the Everest region, encompassing the most among all treks in terms of scenery, locations and cultural experience. It includes three passes over 5 300m/17 400ft, namely Kongma La (5535m), Cho La (5430m) and Renjo La (5355m).
This trek, with the possibility of inclement weather conditions, demands initial fitness and stamina, thorough acclimatization and long slow-paced ascents. Because of the challenging nature of the trail, it is less trodden than the classic EBC Trek route making it perfect for trekkers looking to get away from the bustle of the crowds. The transverse route can be tackled in either direction. The easier anticlockwise direction is described below.
The Everest Three Passes trek begins with a flight to Lukla, and further trek to Namche Bazaar for a rest and acclimatization day.
The eastern arm adds a trek to Chhukhung for a second acclimatization day; walk to Chhukhung Ri or Island Peak BC – for fantastic views of the Nuptse – Lhotse and north Ama Dablam glaciers. The first pass, Kongma La, crosses onto the Everest Base Camp trail. Head for Gorak Shep, the last village; visit the Everest Base Camp and climb Kala Patthar for sunrise views of the Everest group.