What is the Everest Three High Passes Trek?
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is a 19-day challenging and adventurous trekking circuit in the Everest region of Nepal. It includes crossing three high passes: Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m), along with visits to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Gokyo Lakes.
How difficult is the Everest Three High Passes Trek?
This trek is considered strenuous and is best suited for trekkers with good physical fitness and prior trekking experience. The high altitude, steep ascents, and long walking days make it a physically demanding journey.
What is the best time of year for the Everest Three High Passes Trek?
The best seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These periods offer clear skies, good visibility, and stable weather conditions for safe high pass crossings.
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
You will stay in teahouses or local lodges along the route. These provide basic but comfortable accommodation with shared or private rooms, simple bedding, and communal dining areas.
Do I need a guide and porter for this trek?
While it is possible to do the trek independently, hiring a professional guide and porter is highly recommended due to the remote trails, potential navigation difficulties, and high altitude risks.
What permits are required for the Everest Three High Passes Trek?
You will need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. Both are mandatory for all trekkers in this region.
How do I prepare for the altitude on this trek?
Proper acclimatization is crucial. The itinerary includes acclimatization days in places like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Staying hydrated, ascending gradually, and considering preventive medication like Diamox can help minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
What is the total trekking distance covered?
The total distance covered during the Everest Three High Passes Trek is approximately 115 kilometers (about 71 miles), starting and ending at Lukla.
Is travel insurance necessary for this trek?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Make sure your policy covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation, as these are essential for safety in the Everest region.
What are the daily walking hours during the trek?
On average, you will walk 5 to 8 hours per day. Some longer days, especially during high pass crossings, may require 8 to 10 hours of continuous trekking.
Are Lukla flights affected by weather?
Yes, flights to and from Lukla are often delayed or canceled due to weather conditions. It is recommended to keep extra buffer days in your itinerary for flexibility.
Do I need crampons or special gear for this trek?
Microspikes or light crampons are recommended during colder months or if there is snow on the passes. Trekking poles, warm layers, and good quality hiking boots are also essential.
Is there internet and charging facilities on the trail?
Yes, most teahouses offer Wi-Fi and charging services for a small fee. However, connectivity may be limited in higher and more remote areas.
What food options are available on the trek?
Teahouses offer a variety of meals including Dal Bhat, fried rice, noodles, pasta, pancakes, eggs, soups, and hot drinks like tea and coffee. Vegetarian options are widely available.
What are the highlights of the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The main highlights include panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, crossing the three high passes, visiting Gokyo Lakes, walking along the Ngozumpa Glacier, and standing at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Can beginners do the Everest Three High Passes Trek?
This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers due to its length, altitude, and technical challenges. Beginners should gain experience with lower altitude treks first.
What happens in case of altitude sickness?
If you experience severe altitude sickness symptoms, the guide will arrange for immediate descent and, if necessary, helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu. That’s why travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential.
What is the cost of the Everest Three Passes Trek?
The cost varies depending on the trekking agency, group size, and inclusions. On average, expect the package to range from USD 1,500 to USD 2,000 per person, covering permits, guide, porter, flights, accommodation, and meals.
Is drinking water safe on the trail?
It is recommended to use water purification tablets, filter bottles, or purchase boiled water from teahouses to avoid waterborne illnesses during the trek.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, most trekking agencies offer flexible itineraries. You can customize the trek by adding side trips like Island Peak climbing, longer acclimatization days, or other Everest region highlights.