Embark on the Everest Three Pass Trek: Conquer breathtaking heights, embrace the adventure, and witness nature’s majestic beauty.
Everest Three Pass Trek Cost
Trip Overview of the Everest Three-Pass Trek
Everest High Pass Trek aka Everest Three Pass Trek is a demanding and prominent trekking trail in the Khumbu region of Nepal, which is set amongst staggering mountain landscapes. As the trekking trail progressed across three passes located in higher elevations mainly Khongma La Pass (5,535m) Chola La Pass (5,368m) and Renjo La Pass (5,338m), the trek got its widely celebrated name. Also, the trek leads to Everest Base Camp, Kalapathar, and Gokyo Valley with its idyllic Gokyo Lake accompanied by heavenly vistas of snow-capped mountaintops. Awe-inspiring scenery, phenomenal and eminent peaks, abrupt ridges, and radiant villages contribute to a trek that renders experiences that trekkers cannot forget in their lives.
Everest High Pass Trekking is performed at higher elevations that often encounter swift weather changes. The escapade commences from a picturesque 30-minute flight to Lukla but the village of Phakding is the site from where our trekking adventure is set in motion. Afterward, an abrupt ascend leads to the Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar which is running over with splendid outlooks of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse face. Then, we come across the Sherpa villages of Tengboche, Dingboche, and Chhukung. Consequently, we climb the Chukung Ri (5,546m). We now cross beyond our first Everest Pass, the Kongma La Pass. It is a gorgeous Pass, showcasing the astonishing outlooks of Mt.Thamserku, Mt Ama Dablam, Mt. Kongtega, and other several mountains and glacial lakes in front of our eyes. We have now conquered the first Pass of our escapade. Moving on to the next, we trek to Lobuche and continue to Gorak Shep. From there, we proceed to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and Kalapathar where we witness the wonderful vistas embracing Ngozumpa Glacier which is the largest in the Nepalese Himalayas alongside several renowned snow-capped mountain peaks such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and many more. Thereafter, we cross Cho La Pass and arrive at Gokyo. Here, we observe the mesmerizing Dudh Pokhari and make an ascent to the Gokyo Ri (5,357m). Subsequently, we cross Renjo La Pass. After a lovely view from the top, we descend to Marlung which marks the completion of a feat of trekking through three formidable Everest Passes.
This trek rewards trekkers with vistas including the world’s highest peaks from comfortable elevation alongside the thrill of adventure. Additionally, this awesome trek widens the experience of trekkers beyond trekking; the individuals acquire exposure to the peak climbing expedition which benefits them greatly. So are you dauntless enough to accept the Everest High Passes challenge?? If yes, contact us right now!!!
Highlights of the Three Pass Trek:
- Travel across lofty and flat-headed Khongma La Pass (5,535m), Chola La Pass (5,368m), and Renjo La Pass (5,338m).
- Hike to a vantage point (Kala Patthar) to see proud aspiring snow-clad peaks including Mt. Everest.
- Plunge yourself into the divine setting of pristine and turquoise Gokyo lakes fenced with snowy crags.
- Explore the antiquated souvenirs in the Sherpa Museum.
- Experience the solitary Himalayan cultures and taste the mouth-watering cuisines prepared from local products.
- Witness the enriched Sherpa Culture and friendly people
- Visit some of the old Tibetan monasteries
- Explore the rich flora and fauna of the Sagarmatha National Park
- Capture the captivating and picturesque soaring peaks above the alpine meadow
- Cascading waterfalls at the lower valley and glaciers rivers and lakes at the high elevation.
- trek on the world's most famous trekking trail that never experienced before
Everest Three Pass Trek Itinerary:
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
- Day 02: Kathmandu Explore and Trek Preparation Day
- Day 03: Kathmandu to Lukla (2860m) and Treks to Phakding (2651m)
- Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3438m)
- Day 05: Rest Day in Namche Bazaar
- Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche(3860m)
- Day 07: Tengboche to Dingboche (4360m)
- Day 08: Rest Day in Dingboche
- Day 09: Dingboche to chhukung (4750m), climb chukung Ri (5546m)
- Day 10: Cross to Kongma La pass (5535m), Treks to Lobuche(4940m)
- Day 11: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5170m), Visit Everest Base Camp (5364m)
- Day 12: Treks to Gorak Shep to Kala Patther(5545m), then to Lobuche (4940m)
- Day 13: Lobuche to Dzongla (4830m)
- Day 14: Trek to Gokyo (4800m) Via Cho La Pass (5368m)
- Day 15: Rest Day in Gokyo and Climb Gokyo Ri (5357m)
- Day 16: Gokyo to Marlung (4210m) Via Renjol La Pass (5360m)
- Day 17: Marlung to Namche Bazaar
- Day 18: Namche bazaar to Lukla
- Day 19: Lukla to Kathmandu/ Free Day in Kathmandu
- Day 20: Final Departure/ Next Destination
Everest Three Pass Trek Cost and Package for 2025-2026
The world’s famous Everest Three Pass trekking takes you to the closest point at the top of the world without climbing. The massive classical trek needs domestic flight in and out of Kathmandu and Lukla, food, accommodations, and permits are the basic requirements that have relatively less cost than luxuries helicopter add-in. The Himalayan trekking path company is designed with three special Everest Base Camp Trekking packages that have different pricing right here.
Standard Everest three-pass Trekking costs USD (1900 to 2200)
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 2000 for a solo
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 1800 per person ( 2 to 6 pax Group)
- Everest Three PassTrekking Cost: USD 1700 per person (8 to 10 pax Group)
What is included in Standard Packages?
- All airport transfers by private vehicle
- 2 Nights Standard Hotel Accommodations in Kathmandu with Breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu Flight
- A professional trekking guide
- All the accommodations in Mountain
- All the required documents, permits, and government tax
- Foods (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) in Mountain
- 4 Times Tea or Coffee
- Porter Service (2 Guests: 1 porter)
- Rescue service for emergency case
- Fresh fruit and dry food
Deluxe Everest Three Pass Trekking cost: USD (2200 to 2400)
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 2400 for a solo
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 2300 per person ( 2 to 6 pax Group)
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 2200 per person (8 to 10 pax Group)
What is included in Deluxe Packages?
- All airport transfers by private vehicle
- 2 Nights Deluxe Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu Flight
- A professional trekking guide and Porter (2 guest Porter)
- All the accommodations in Mountain
- All the required documents, permits, and government tax
- All the Foods (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- 3 times hot drinks (Tea or Coffee) and fresh fruit
- Hot Shower, Drinking Water
- Dessert at Dinnertime
Super Deluxe Everest three pass Trek cost: USD (2400 to 2700)
- Everest Three PassTrekking Cost: USD 2700 for a solo
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 2500 per person ( 2 to 6 pax Group)
- Everest Three Pass Trekking Cost: USD 2400 per person (8 to 10 pax Group)
What is included in Super Deluxe Packages?
- All airport transfers by private vehicle
- 2 Nights Deluxe Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast.
- A day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
- Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu Flight
- A professional trekking guide and Porter (2 guests: 1 Porter)
- All the accommodations in Mountain
- All the required documents, permits, andgovernmenttaxx
- All the Foods (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- 4 times hot drinks (Tea or Coffee) and fresh fruit
- Hot shower (gas or eclectic) and Wi-Fi Accordingly available
- Drinking water, Chocolate bar, and Dessert at Dinnertime
Everest Three Pass Trek requires a gear list
- Sleeping bag (–10° to -20°this will be sufficient on most treks)
- Silk Liner (according to your preference)
- Backpack (size depends on whether or not you have porters
- Hiking boots* (break them in beforehand)
- Camp shoes (your reward after a long day)
- Wool socks (bring a few pairs of varying thicknesses)
- Lightweight trekking pant
- Trekking short
- T-shirts (lightweight wool is great)
- Underwear
- Long underwear/Wool thermals
- Sweater
- Fleece
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Heavyweight pants for high elevations (also good for camp)
- Heavy down jacket (can be rented in Kathmandu)
- Winter hat
- Winter gloves
Accessories
- Water purification (pump, tablets, or SteriPen; bring from home)
- Water bottles (at least 3 liters total capacity)
- Baseball cap (the sun is strong at all elevations)
- Hiking poles (lessen the impact on your joints)
- Sunglasses (essential when you cross the snow line)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Reading materials (Kindle may be best)
- Journal and pens
- Camera with extra batteries
- Daypack (for your rain jacket, snacks, camera, etc.)
- Heavy-duty duffle bag (preferred by porters)
- Gators (many people wear them but they are not mandatory)
Personal Supplies
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, floss, etc.)
- Biodegradable bar soap
- Face/body wipes
- Biodegradable washing liquid
- Throat lozenges, lip balm
- Medications (Ibuprofen, others if necessary)
Three Pass Trek Detailed Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
We extend you our cordial Namaste!! Welcome to Nepal!! Renowned around the world as the land of the formidable Himalayas and the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the light of Asia; Nepal is also an epitome of diverse culture, time-honored heritages, and traditions. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, we will meet and exchange warm regards with each other. Then, you’ll be guided to your hotel where you can relax and provide rest to your jet-lagged body succeeding in a tiresome flight. At the end of the day, you may wander around the delightful Thamel market and get familiar with the Nepalese atmosphere.
Day 02: Kathmandu Explore and Trek Preparation Day
After some healthy breakfast, you’ll be invited to our office where we’ll hold a pre-trip meeting. You’ll be introduced to your trekking guide with whom you can have a conversation regarding your upcoming escapade. Thereafter, we’ll depart for a full-day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu and explore the buildings and monuments that illustrate the history, customs, fine arts, and craftsmanship of ancient ethnic groups who resided in this particular region. Commencing the tour with a visit to the most sacred Hindu Temple of Pashupatinath, the focal point of Hindu beliefs; we then explore the sacred Buddhist Stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. These two stupas are some of the largest stupa structures on the entire planet and are considered ancient architectural marvels. Finally, we conclude our day with a look at Basantapur Durbar Square. The Durbar Square complex reflects the artistic prowess of the Malla craftsmen via extremely beautiful wall paintings, wood and stone carvings, and numerous sculptures and monuments dedicated to deities of multiple religions.
Day 03: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m) and Trek to Phakding (2,651m)
Early in the morning, we’ll board a scenic domestic flight to the mountainous village of Lukla. During this short flight of 30 mins, we’ll fly over the lofty mountain ranges and observe the picturesque landscapes and awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks. Once we land in Lukla, we will get our first taste of trekking as we initiate our trek to Phakding. We’ll follow the trail that makes an ascent on a mountain slope along the banks of the spurting Dudh Koshi River. Afterward, the trail advances to Chheplung (2,700m) and then reaches Ghat (2,590m), a village famed for eye-catching Mani stone, large prayer wheels, and a cluster of prayer flags. From here, short leads to Phakding (2,651m).
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438m)
Today, we’ll make our move across several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River on our quest to Namche Bazaar. Keeping that in mind, we’ll pursue the trail that makes its way beyond the Sherpa villages of Benkar, Monjo, and Jhorsalle. Alongside these villages, the trail extends across pinewoods and rhododendrons forest, and of course, the territory of Sagarmatha National Park. Along the way, we can catch a distant sight of beautiful mountains such as Kusum Kanguru (6,369m), Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse. Before we arrive at Namche Bazaar, we must get ahead of an abrupt upward slope of a few hundred meters. Also known as ‘Gateway to Mt. Everest’; this village is the prime commercial hub of the whole Khumbu region and has witnessed economic prosperity, all thanks to Himalayan tourism.
Day 05: Rest Day in Namche Bazaar (3,438m)
Day five is exclusively sorted out for acclimatization and rest. As the Himalayan region is positioned at a higher altitude with a lower amount of oxygen when compared to oxygen-rich region lower regions; trekkers and climbers must accommodate the change in atmosphere. This process is known as acclimatization. When failed to do so, trekkers tend to develop the initial symptoms of AMS like dizziness, headache, etc. that may turn into a more severe form, ultimately causing death. To speed up this process, we can go for a short hike to the Hotel Everest View or nearby scenic villages like Khumjung and Khunde where we can witness exquisite mountain vistas including Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse. In the time of late afternoon, you can stroll around Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Museum, and get acquainted with its people and their customs.
Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m) 6-7 hours trek
This entire day, we are accompanied by the aspiring outlooks of snow-clad mountain peaks of Everest, Khumbila, Lhotse Taboche, and Nuptse as we trek on the trail and face a couple of ups and downs. Subsequently, we’ll arrive in Khumjung Village, the largest settlement in Khumbu Region then proceed to the village of Sanasa where the trail splits into two; one leads to Gokyo Lakes, another to Everest Base Camp (EBC). We’ll follow the trail to EBC then progress through the pinewoods then traverse a suspension bridge covered with prayer flags built over Dudh Koshi River to Phunki Tenga. From here, we’ll make an abrupt ascend beyond Pinewoods and come up to Tengboche (3,860m). This Sherpa Village renders sublime vistas embracing Ama Dablam, Everest, and Nuptse and harbors the largest monastery in the Khumbu Region. Explore Tengboche rest of the day.
Day 07: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360m)
Day seven of our escapade offers a pleasant and easy trek. At the break of the day, we’ll move downhill on the moderately wide trail enveloped by the lovely woods of rhododendron to Debuche. Keeping with our advance, we’ll maintain our pace and range over the sparkling Imja Khola and end up at Pangboche (4,360m). This village is home to Pangboche Monastery. En route, we can take pleasure in prepossessing landscapes complemented by snow-covered mountaintops. Thereupon, we’ll proceed to Imja Valley and move uphill to Dingboche (4,360m).
Day 08: Rest Day in Dingboche
The Sherpa Village of Dingboche possesses a classic feature i.e. rock walls that surround it. This man-made barrier protects crops of barley, buckwheat, and potatoes in the farmland from herbivores and freezing wind. Well-renowned among visitors for the vistas of Ama Dablam and Mt. Everest; Dingboche renders an ideal place to rest as well as acclimatize for trekkers and climbers.
Day 09: Dingboche to Chhukung (4,750m), climb Chukung Ri (5,546m)
This very day, we’ll push forward on the trail progressing through the farmlands equipped with artificial rock fences beyond the Imja Valley and Bibre. Gazing the spell-binding vista of Ama Dablam and surrounding mountains, we’ll traverse a chilly stream and get to Chhukung (4,750m). Thereafter, we’ll make headway in the direction of Chukung Ri (5,546m). This very peak offers the climbing experience to newbie climbers as the peak is technically non-challenging. Ascending to the top of this peak can take 4-5 hours. The apex delivers a stupendous as well as a close-up outlook of Ama Dablam and Amphu Labsa.
Day 10: Cross to Kongma La Pass (5,535m), Trek to Lobuche (4,940m)
This morning, we’ll advance to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass. As the location is remote, there are no teahouses on the way; therefore, we must prepare ourselves well with packed lunches and plentiful water. Despite this, if you enjoy utter nature, you can take delight in the isolation of the region. There are two paths to reach Kongma La Pass; one is to the northwest of Chhukung over the Nuptse Glacier moraines and the other returns to Bibre then climbs above the Niyang Khola. With a cairn next to Buddhist prayer flags, the vertex of the pass bestows vistas embracing the snowy peaks of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongtega, and neighboring mountains adjacent to glacial lakes. Now comes the most difficult part i.e. the downhill trek on the abrupt trail. After the uphill advance on the farthest side, the trekking trail steers to the north via Khumbu Glacier and then continues to Lobuche (4,940m).
Day 11: Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,170m), Explore Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Pursuing the rugged trail, we’ll move forward past the Khumbu Glacier to arrive at Gorakshep (5,170m). From this point onward, the trail ascends to the Everest Base Camp. Situated in the foothills of the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest; the Base Camp offers a place to climbers and mountaineers where can prepare both physically and mentally for an expedition to the summit. Without any use of special equipment, you can set foot in the Everest Base Camp. You can observe colorful tents belonging to various Everest expedition groups during the climbing season. From the Base Camp, you can witness the sublime view of Khumbu Icefall. But you are denied a perfect view of Mt. Everest because of the position of the Base Camp i.e. at the base of Everest itself. For that elegant vista, we have to wait till we reach Kalapatthar. Eventually, we’ll return to Gorakshep (5,170m).
Day 12: Trek to Kalapatthar (5,545m), then to Lobuche (4,940m)
Before dawn, we’ll push forward for the most strenuous trek of our entire journey. As we’ll be trekking in the dark with the temperature reaching up to 5-100C, our endurance will be tested to its limit. At the same time, this particular trek proves to be worthwhile; as the top of Kalapatthar (5,545m) bestows mind-boggling vistas of high mountains, which few in the world ever witness in their entire lifetime. Appraised as the best viewpoint in the Khumbu region; Kalapatthar provides a chance to catch the glittering panorama of Mt. Everest along with its adjacent peak under the first light of the day. After this sightseeing, we’ll be on the road to Lobuche (4,940m).
Day 13: Lobuche to Dzongla (4,830m)
Succeeding the trek on the primary EBC trail for a couple of hours, we’ll separate ourselves from the main path and then proceed to Dzongla with the sublime vistas of towering summits. Progressing across stupas beside the trail, we’ll make an ascent beyond the Chola Tsho Lake and continue past the Chola Tsho Lake to traverse a bridge over Chola Khola. In the end, we arrive at Dzongla (4,830m)
Day 14: Trek to Gokyo (4,800m) via Cho La Pass (5,368m)
Before the crack of dawn, we’ll advance to the other side of Cho La Pass as the weather tends to turn ugly during mid-day. As the trail advances through high elevation, abruptly unbounded rock and slippery ice sheets on some segments; present difficulties during the trek. The top of the Cho La Pass exhibits cairns and fluttering prayer flags. Once you turn your head around, you can get a glimpse of elegant lakes next to majestic peaks from the apex. Afterward, we’ll descend the trail to Thangnak and then pass by the edge of Ngozumpa glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. We now march beyond the second Lake of Gokyo Lake system which comprises altogether six lakes; eventually continuing to Gokyo Village (4,800m). This alluring village is positioned at the lap of Gokyo Ri (5,357m), beside the Dudh Pokhari (Third Lake of Gokyo Lake System).
Day 15: Rest Day in Gokyo and Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) 3-4 hours trek
It’s day fifteen of our travel venture and today, we’ll explore the prepossessing Gokyo Region. We’ll hike to the top of the Gokyo Ri (5,357m) where we can take pleasure in fascinating landscapes comprising turquoise-hued lakes of Gokyo Lake System alongside the elegant view of peaks encompassing Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. Subsequently, we trek to Fourth and Fifth Lakes. We can discover the close-up view of the Ngozumpa Glacier, Mt. Cho Oyu, and Gyachung Kang from Fifth Lake. Later, we return to Gokyo Village.
Day 16: Gokyo to Marlung (4,210m) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m) 7-8 hours trek
To conquer our third and final Khumbu Pass, we trek from Gokyo along the trail that initially continues along the Dudh Pokhari. From his point onwards, we’ll hike for about 2-3 hours to the top of Renjol La Pass (5,360m). Along with this segment of the trail, the vistas of Himalayan and Rolwaling Massifs will be on our side. From the highest elevation of 5,360m, you can see the picturesque landscapes comprising lakes and glaciers. Thereafter, we will descend downhill down the south side eye-catching Angladumba Tsho Lake. Furthermore, we can also observe Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake next to the trail which heads to Lumde via a tapered valley congested with huge rocks. From here forward, the trail stays with the length of Bhote Koshi River to Marlung (4,210m)
Day 17: Marlung to Namche Bazaar 5-6 hours trek
This morning, we proceed downward on the trekking trail, which extends over the Bhote Koshi River to Taranga and then continues across suspension bridges to Thame i.e. famous for the monastery i.e. oldest in the whole region. Through many Sherpa Villages, the trail ends up at Namche Bazaar.
Day 18: Namche Bazaar to Lukla
The trekking trail progresses adjacent to the rushing river of Dudh Koshi beyond the rugged terrain and woodlands of rhododendrons, pine, and oaks guided by the mountain scenes. Lastly, the trail concludes where it had originally started i.e. Lukla. You may take a stroll around Lukla village and recall the reminiscence of your previous adventure.
Day 19: Lukla to Kathmandu/ Free Day in Kathmandu
Today marks the end of your escapade in Nepal. Bidding farewell to the Khumbu Region, you’ll board a flight back to Kathmandu. In the capital city, you can spend the rest of your day either by taking a rest in your hotel room. Or you can explore the remaining monuments located within the vicinity of the city and perform some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Day 20: Final Departure/ Next Destination
We extend our hearty gratitude and hope to see you again during your next travel venture in Nepal. We are confident that we can assist you with our expertise and services. You may get your hands on another odyssey. If you don’t want it, then you can take the flight back to your home. One of our representatives will escort you to Kathmandu Airport; 3 hours before your flight, so that you don’t have to face any unwanted last-moment troubles.
The Best season for Three Pass Trek
The iconic three-pass trek in Everest is one of the best trekking trails for those who want to experience the hidden beauty of the Everest region, highlighting its unique blend of nature and culture. This challenging yet rewarding trail is suitable for both novice and seasoned trekkers. To ensure a better view and a less strenuous trip, it's important to choose the right time to trek. The best seasons for the three-pass trek are autumn and spring, when the weather is stable and clear, and temperatures are pleasant.
The best time to explore Everest High Pass Trekking is from February to May and September to November. Eventually, the lodges are mostly sold out and the trail is mostly busy with trekkers. If you like to skip the crowd maybe the months of December and February are the alternate times to visit the wonder. Winter and rainy seasons are not perfect to witness the Himalayan vista, due to the poor visibility you face with canceled flights and hits on the regular itinerary.
- Autumn Season: September, October, and November are the months of the autumn season, which is considered the best time for trekking the Three Pass Trek in Nepal due to favorable weather conditions. This period follows the rainy season, providing temperatures that are neither too cold at high elevations nor too hot in lower areas. The weather remains stable and clear, with a reduced chance of snowfall and rain.
- Spring Season: March, April, and May mark the Spring Season, which is regarded as the second-best time for trekking, following the Autumn Season. During this period, the weather is stable, and the skies are clear. The views of the mountains are particularly stunning, and in the lower valleys, you can enjoy the sight of blooming rhododendrons and various other wildflowers. Additionally, the trekking trails are less crowded compared to the Autumn Season.
- Rainy Season: The months of June, July, and August mark the rainy season in the region. This is not the ideal time for trekking on the Everest Three Pass Trek, but with careful planning, you can still consider a longer holiday. During this season, flights and transportation may be affected by poor weather conditions, and the views of the valley and mountains may not be as spectacular. Additionally, cloud cover can reduce visibility, and the rain can make the trails wet and slippery.
- Winter Season: The months of December, January, and February mark the winter season. This season is generally not ideal for high-pass treks, such as the Everest Three Pass trek, due to cold temperatures, snowfall, and the potential for snow to block the trails. However, if you're looking for a challenge, you can attempt the three-pass trek in winter, provided you are well-prepared, remain flexible with your schedule, and have the appropriate gear. Please note that flights may often be delayed due to clouds and bad weather during this time.
Everest Three Pass Trek Permits and Cost:
The Everest Three Pass trek requires Three specific permits, are a Sagarmatha National Park permit, a TIMS Card, and a Local Government (Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit) To obtain the necessary permits for the Three Pass Trek, you must carry your original passport to the entrance gate in Lukla. The required permits and their costs are as follows:
- Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Fee: Rs 3,000 per person
- Sagarmatha National Park Fee: Rs 3,000 per person
- TIMS Card Fee: Rs 2,000 per person
All required permits are included in the package for the Three Pass Trek.
How to travel from Kathmandu to Lukla?
When traveling from Kathmandu to Lukla, you have a few options. Lukla serves as the gateway to the entire Everest region's trekking trails. The most common way to reach Lukla from Kathmandu is by taking a scenic flight, which takes approximately 35 minutes. Alternatively, helicopter services are available, ranging from shared to private options. Recently, a road has been constructed connecting Kathmandu to Surke Village, which is situated just below Lukla. If you want to experience the lower part of the Everest region without flying, this route is ideal for the Everest Three Pass Trek. In case flights are canceled due to bad weather, you can travel overland to Surke Village. This option involves a scenic but longer drive from Kathmandu. If you prefer, you can also stay overnight in Salleri before continuing to Surke Village.
Due to increased air traffic, flights between Kathmandu and Lukla have become frequently disrupted and often canceled due to long hold times. Typically, flights to mountainous areas operate in Mountain Time to take advantage of clearer weather during the morning hours. When flights are canceled, many trekkers can become stranded, prompting the Nepalese government to change operations by shifting the route to Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu. As a result, flights now operate between Lukla and Ramechhap during the peak seasons of September, October, November, March, April, and May. During the rest of the year, flights operate between Kathmandu and Lukla. There are many options to travel between Kathmandu and Lukla as below:
Round-trip Flights Between Kathmandu and Lukla: Just USD 450 per Person
The most efficient method to travel between Kathmandu and Lukla is by taking a brief 35-minute flight on a small twin-engine aircraft. This option is not only one of the quickest ways to make the journey but also provides a scenic experience. During peak seasons, flights may be limited due to air traffic; however, direct flights are typically available from late May to early September and from late November to early March. The round-trip fare for this flight is USD 450 per person. Should you wish to book your flight, please reach out to us, and we will assist you in securing your reservation with ease.
Travel between Kathmandu and Ramechhap and the Cost
There are several options for traveling between Kathmandu and Lukla. However, during the peak seasons from March to May and September to November, flights will only be available from Ramechhap to Lukla. Therefore, you will need to travel overland from Kathmandu to Ramechhap before taking a flight to Lukla. Upon completing your trek, you will return via the same route. If you choose to travel by shared jeep, the cost is USD 20 per person, while a round trip will cost USD 40. For those opting for a private car, the fare is USD 120 one way and USD 240 for a round trip, accommodating up to three passengers. Alternatively, if you prefer to travel by jeep, the cost is USD 180 for one way and USD 300 for a round trip, with a capacity for six passengers. The distance between Kathmandu and Ramechhap is approximately 140 km, which typically takes around 4 to 5 hours to cover.
The flight between Ramechhap and Lukla and the Cost
To travel from Ramechhap to Lukla, it is necessary to depart from Kathmandu around midnight. Typically, flights in the mountainous region are scheduled for early morning, as this is when weather conditions are most favorable. Flights are often disrupted after noon due to changes in air pressure and cloud formation. Consequently, it is advisable to leave Kathmandu very early in the morning by car or jeep. If you prefer not to travel at night and have the flexibility, you may consider arriving in Ramechhap a day before your flight to Lukla. The flight duration is approximately 15 minutes, with a one-way fare of USD 180. For a round trip, the cost is USD 360 per person.
Travelling Kathmandu and Lukla in a Helicopter and the Cost
Helicopter services are offered for travel between Kathmandu and Lukla. Traveling by helicopter is among the most convenient and comfortable options, although it is significantly more costly than other modes of transportation. The one-way fare for a shared helicopter ranges from USD 500 to USD 600 per person. For a round trip, the cost will be doubled. If you are part of a group of five and wish to experience a helicopter ride, the total cost will be USD 2,200 for the entire helicopter, accommodating all five passengers.
Three Pass Trek without taking a flight
In the present day, it is possible to explore the Everest region entirely without flying, utilizing overland transportation from Kathmandu to the trailhead at Surke or Tham Danda. This approach not only allows for an immersive experience of the lesser-known lower Everest region but also serves as a cost-effective means of travel. For those interested in the three-pass trek, flying is not a necessity either. If time permits, consider spending a night in Salleri before proceeding to Tham Danda, which is a short drive and an ideal spot for rest. Continuing directly to Tham Danda is also an option, though it requires approximately 12 hours of driving from Kathmandu. Recently, a new road has been opened to Surke. The fare for a shared jeep from Kathmandu to Tham Danda is USD 90 per person one way, and if you choose to return overland, the total cost will be USD 180 per person.