EVEREST THREE HIGH PASS TREK 13 DAYS

GOOD TO KNOW

Altitude Awareness 🏔️

Hiking in the Everest region requires several nights over 5,000 meters, when the oxygen is significantly depleted. As a result, this greatly increases the chances of altitude sickness, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Preventing this condition requires acclimatization. Take regular rests, drink plenty of water, and do not climb too high too fast. Don’t ignore symptoms, and if they worsen, descend to a lower altitude.

Physical Fitness 💪

This is a challenging and physically demanding trek that should be prepared with a stamina and strength. It’s not merely about walking, but hiking steep hills and long days of hiking — sometimes up to 10 hours. Cardio workouts, strength training, and endurance hikes are highly recommended in advance to prepare for the long-distance conditions. This is a trek that will challenge and reward you, if you’re used to long outings or walking in difficult conditions, but it is not for the faint of heart.

Acclimatization Days 🏕️

It also ensures that you acclimatize properly, another key aspect of your trek. Along the way, you’ll find rest days to allow your body to acclimate to thinning air at a high altitude. One such stop is Chhukung, where you can spend a day and acclimatize by hiking up to Chhukung Ri (5,550m) to acclimatize better. On these dates, it is important not to overexert yourself and to acclimatize before ascending to greater heights. Missing acclimatization days can give you altitude sickness, which can be the end of a trek.

Weather Conditions 🌦️

For those already in the Himalayas, the weather is known to be proverbial at this time period, so aim for living in higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures can be quite warm, but as soon as the sun goes down, it can get really frigid. A gale or storm and rain — or snow — may be encountered on your trek as well. Higher altitudes exacerbate these conditions, so being properly prepared is imperative. Cold mornings and nights are unavoidable, especially when camping at Gorakshep and Kala Patthar. Always take layers when you set out, such as a warm jacket, gloves, and hat.

Packing Essentials 🎒

If you are preparing for the Everest Three High Pass Trek you need to start packing. The climate fluctuates greatly, depending on how high above sea level you are, and what time of day it is. Pack lightweight but warm clothes such as insulated jackets, trekking pants, and moisture-wicking base layers. A solid pair of boots with good ankle support is key for walking up and down rugged terrain. Also think about sun protection, in the form of sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses, as UV exposure is more intense in high altitudes. A cold-weather sleeping bag, and waterproof jacket and pants will keep you comfortable on the trek.

Hire a Guide or Porter 🧑‍🌾

Having a guide or porter on a trek helps in many ways including safety, cultural insights, and a more enjoyable experience. Having a guide not only gives valuable insight into the region’s culture, history, and geography, but also keeps you on track and helps make the most out of your trek. Porters will carry your heavy gear, easing the load so you can concentrate on the very hike. They also know the local conditions well, so in case of any unforeseen circumstances, their assistance can prove to be invaluable!

Cultural Etiquette 🙏

The Everest region is home to the Sherpa people and their traditions and customs play an important part in the culture of the area. Be respectful and be mindful of local customs. Always ask before snapping pictures of people, and respect an area’s silence and reverence, as in Tengboche Monastery. “If you pass by a village, a simple ‘Namaste’ is quite enough — just as you should not be looking at them as wildlife, but you should respect their lifestyle.” Making an effort to understand their culture can go a long way to make your experience even better and help maintain a very good relationship between trekkers and locals.

Permits Required 📝

To begin the Everest Three High Pass Trek, trekkers are required to obtain a few permits that are mandatory for entering the Sagarmatha National Park and the surrounding region. Sagarmatha National Park Permit and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card. You can arrange these permits through your trekking agency which you will find at the start of the trek and will go smoothly and legally. Without the required permits, access to certain areas could be delayed or incluson barred.

Best Trekking Seasons 🌸

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is best done in the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. The months also offer stable weather with clear skies for the best views of Mount Everest and neighboring peaks. With fewer tourists than either spring or autumn, you'll find the trekking paths far less crowded, offering a more serene and silent experience. Winter (December to February) is punishing, with snowstorms and freezing temps, while the summer monsoon (June to August) brings torrential rains that turn trails treacherous and perilous.

Risk of Altitude Sickness 🚑

With altitude sickness a permanent threat, even for the most experienced trekkers, at such high altitudes their health is always paramount. Just as well, we need to prepare for the early symptoms of illness: headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. And if you start feeling unwell at any point, let your guide know right away. It’s always safer to go down and recover rather than push forward. That said, it’s essential to listen to your body and not to ignore any symptoms of altitude sickness. This becomes a grave matter in high-altitude treks and if managed properly, can turn the tide in terms of your well-being.