Three Pass Trek – The Everest

This trek features a mix of terrain, including forested paths, rocky trails, scree slopes, exposed ridgelines, and glaciated sections, some can be challenging based on the current situtation. The highest point typically reached on this itinerary is Kalapathar 5600 meters, which requires a steady ascent with scarmbling on the last section. While no technical climbing is involved, basic scrambling skills and a reasonable level of agility are beneficial. If you are moderately fit and well-prepared, you'll likely do just fine with proper acclimatization. Nevertheless the altitude is never to be taken lightly and its important to follow your guides expertise and guidance.

If you experience discomfort—whether due to altitude, fatigue, or illness—our guide team is trained to assess and respond promptly. Depending on the severity, options may include rest, change of trail,  descending to a lower altitude, or even arranging emergency evacuation if necessary. Your safety is always our top priority. Based on the situation we can provide you optional side trip to a safer ground.

On average, you can expect to trek between 5 to 8 hours per day. This may vary based on the itinerary, terrain, and your pace. The trek is designed with acclimatization in mind, allowing for gradual altitude gain and rest days when needed. However some days especially descending down are long and sometimes can take up 10-11 hrs.

While this trek is for experienced hiking individuals, cardiovascular endurance is highly recommended. Daily walking over varying terrain requires stamina, leg strength, and mental preparedness. Consistent pre-trek training—walking, jogging, or stair climbing—will significantly enhance your experience.

It’s advisable to consult your doctor regarding preventive medication such as Diamox (Acetazolamide). While not mandatory, it can aid acclimatization for some individuals. 

Diamox (acetazolamide) is widely used to help prevent symptoms of altitude sickness during high-altitude trekking. It works by speeding up the body's natural acclimatization process. Health experts, including those in wilderness and mountaineering medicine, recommend its use in certain cases.

When should I consider taking Diamox?

• If you are ascending rapidly to elevations above 2,500 meters (8,200 ft).
• If you have experienced altitude sickness before.
• If you're unable to follow a gradual ascent schedule due to time limitations.

What is the recommended dosage?

• For prevention: 125 mg twice a day (every 12 hours), starting 1–2 days before the ascent and continuing for 2 days after reaching your highest sleeping altitude.

For treatment of mild symptoms: 250 mg twice a day can be used, but rest or descent is still the primary solution.

Are there side effects?

Some people may experience:

• Tingling in fingers or toes.
• Increased urination.
• Mild nausea or dizziness.
• Changes in taste, especially with carbonated drinks.

These side effects are usually harmless and go away on their own.

Important Notes:

• Diamox is not a substitute for proper acclimatization. A slow and steady ascent, rest days, and listening to your body remain the most effective ways to prevent altitude sickness.
• Consult your doctor before using Diamox, especially if you have sulfa allergies or other medical conditions.
• Stay well-hydrated, as Diamox can increase fluid loss through urination.

Nevertheless we prioritize natural acclimatization and build rest days into the itinerary accordingly.

A personal medical kit is essential. We recommend including:

• Altitude sickness tablets (if advised), Anti-diarrheal medication, Painkillers, paracetamol or ibuprofen), Anti allergy, Blister plasters, Rehydration salts.

Any personal prescription medication
Your guide will carry a group first-aid kit for emergencies including emergency oxy cans.

You’ll carry a small daypack (20–30L) with essentials like water, snacks, a jacket, and camera. Your main gear will go into a duffel bag or large backpack (60–80L), carried by our porters. Please limit the porter load to a maximum of 10-12 kg per person.

First we truly believe with our proper guidance you will be able to complete the trip and thats what we call our success. If you choose to end your trek early due to your own personel reason or laziness, on your request our team will arrange your safe return to a lower altitude or back to Kathmandu, depending on your preference and condition. however in this case you will not be eligible for refund or any optional side trip.  Any changes in logistics will be managed with your comfort and safety in mind, though additional costs may apply. 

You’ll stay in locally operated teahouses, all most all of them have a great views offering twin-shared rooms with basic bedding i.e. mattress, pillow and blanket. Most of the tea houses are wooden structures, some are concrete and some are prefab. Bathroom and toilets are seperate and doesnt comes with amenities at all. There can be option for room with attached toilet/bathroom but note, especially in winter the plumbing system might gets freezed and can get smelly.

Meals typically include Nepali staples such as dal bhat, pasta, noodles, soups, eggs and other items, all served warm and fresh. Boiled drinking water, boiled water is usually available at an extra cost at teahouses, and we recommend using purification tablets or filters. Dinnings have a chimney heating system, which mostly gets on during the evening time.

Hot showers (gas/solar) are available at teahouses for an additional fee, the price ranges from 200 - 700 rs based on the elevation and remoteness. However, due to high altitude and limited facilities, we suggest limiting showers. Laundry services are rare on the trail, so plan to bring enough clothing or quick-dry items for the duration of the trek. You can do self laundry, but please calculate the time required for drying.

Basic electricity (solar or generator) is available in most teahouses for charging devices, often at an extra cost. Wi-Fi is sporadic and unreliable, especially at higher altitudes. Mobile network coverage exists in lower sections of the trek, but it becomes limited as you gain elevation. In general Nepal has 2 major telecom companies that provide the network services, which are known as “Namaste” or Nepal telecom a govt company and “Ncell” which is a private company. Nepal telecom generals have broader network coverage especially in the rural area.

Tipping is customary in Nepal and greatly appreciated. While it’s discretionary, a general minimum guideline is:

• Guide: USD 15 per day.
• Porter: USD 10 per day.

Tips are typically given at the end of the trek in a group ceremony as a gesture of gratitude. 

The Kongma La Pass crossing at 5,535m is the highest and most demanding section of the Three Pass Trek Everest, involving a steep ascent over rocky terrain and a descent across the Khumbu Glacier. Our Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified guides assess trail conditions daily and ensure a safe, paced crossing for the entire group. With proper acclimatization and expert guidance, this high-altitude challenge is entirely manageable for well-prepared trekkers.

The Cho La Pass glacier trek at 5,420m involves navigating a steep, icy slope that often requires microspikes or crampons for safe footing. Our guides are highly experienced in this specific terrain, providing hands-on assistance and setting a cautious, deliberate pace to ensure your safety. This thrilling section connects the remote Gokyo Valley to the classic Everest Base Camp trail, offering a profound sense of alpine adventure.

Reaching the Renjo La Pass altitude of 5,360m rewards you with some of the most spectacular, sweeping panoramic views in the entire Everest region. From the summit, you will witness a breathtaking 360-degree vista featuring Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, all glowing above the serene turquoise Gokyo Lakes. The descent into the tranquil village of Lungden is a steep but highly rewarding conclusion to the high passes.