SHORTERST EVEREST THREE HIGH PASS TREK 11 DAYS
SHORTERST EVEREST THREE HIGH PASS TREK 11 DAYS
The Shortest Everest Three High Pass Trek is a thrilling and demanding adventure that is best for experienced trekkers in search of an extraordinary challenge in the Everest region. It is not an easy trek and its 11 days definitely take its toll on beginners; as three major high passes — Kongmala Pass, Renjo La Pass, and Cho La Pass — cause it to take some effort to get to their breathtaking view of the horizon, and even when it takes one you should be sure of one's stamina and altitude tolerance. Spread into steep climbs, rugged terrain, and high-altitude tests, the trek is perfect for experienced prospects looking out for an extreme Hindu Kush experience.
The adventure starts with a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu at dawn which is reputed to be one of the most exciting airports on the planet. The flight is a breathtaking view of the Himalayas, and is the beginning of your trek. Upon landing in Lukla, you will start your trek (a hike to Jorsalle, a small settlement in the foothills). This pause grants you a little respite before proceeding to the sacred Everest site of Tengboche Monastery. The hike from Lukla to Tengboche offers spectacular views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other massive peaks, acclimatizing you for the ordeal to come.
Once at Tengboche, you’ll make your way towards Chhukung, where you’ll dedicate a day to acclimatization and preparing for all the high-altitude high-water marks ahead. The first pass you’ll cross is the Kongmala Pass at over 5,500 meters (18,000 feet). This is one of the highest points of the trek with a 360-degree view of Everest massif & another mountain. After crossing the Kongmala Pass, you’ll head to Everest Base Camp, a bucket-list destination that many trekkers have only one such trip in their life. The proximity allows close-up views of Everest’s impressive sheer face, and being at the base of the world’s highest peak is a true moment of awe!
Then it’s the hike up to Kala Patthar, one of the most photographed views in the Everest area. To witness the sunrise from Kala Patthar is to see Everest and its neighbors illuminated with the first light of day.
After Base Camp and Kala Patthar, you'll descend through Dzongla before tackling Renjo La Pass. More than 5,300 meters (17,500 feet) high, this pass has sweeping views of Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other towering Himalayan behemoths. Crossing the Renjo La leads hikers down the other side, or toward the illustrious Gokyo Lakes — a handful of glacial turquoise bodies of freshwater aligned by soaring mountain forms.
On the last few days of the trek, you’ll pass through Thame, a quiet Sherpa village, then trek down first to Phakding, and finally back to Lukla. Fly back from Lukla to Kathmandu - This is the end of an exciting, challenging, and memorable journey.
The Shortest Everest Three High Pass Trek is a tough and challenging trek that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the Everest region. Its not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to test the limits of their endurance and to witness the Himalayas in all its untamed beauty.
This trek is not for beginner trekkers. It is only suitable for very highly experienced trekkers who have completed several treks at altitudes above 5000 meters. Additionally, please note that from March to May and September to December, the Lukla flights will operate from Ramechhap. You will need to drive 5-6 hours from Kathmandu to Ramechhap to catch the flight.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla & Trek to Jorsalle (2,740m) - Duration: 7-8 hours.
Your adventure begins with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small town located in the Khumbu region. The flight offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, preparing you for the trek ahead. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will start your trek to Jorsalle, following the trail through lush forests and local villages along the Dudh Koshi River. This day’s trek allows you to acclimatize gradually to the altitude while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Day 2 : Trek from Jorsalle to Tengboche (3,867m) - Duration: 7-9 hours.
Today’s journey takes you to Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. You will trek through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, crossing bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and passing through villages like Benkar and Phunki Tenga. Along the way, you will get glimpses of the towering peaks of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Everest. Once at Tengboche, you can visit the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3 : Trek from Tengboche to Chhukung (4,730m) - Duration: 7-8 hours.
From Tengboche, you’ll continue trekking toward Chhukung. This day’s trail takes you along the Imja Khola River and through the villages of Pangboche and Somare, with stunning views of the Everest massif. Chhukung lies at the base of Island Peak and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This will be an important acclimatization stop before you prepare for the high-altitude passes ahead.
Day 4 : Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535m) & Trek to Lobuche (4,910m) - Duration: 7-9 hours.
This is one of the most challenging days of the trek as you will cross the Kongma La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,535 meters. The ascent to the pass is steep, and the weather can be unpredictable, but the views from the top are worth the effort. Once over the pass, you will descend to Lobuche, where you can rest and take in the magnificent views of the surrounding peaks, including Pumori and Nuptse.
Day 5 : Trek to Gorakshep & Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & Return to Gorakshep - Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today, you will continue your journey to Gorakshep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. The trek involves crossing rocky terrain and glaciers, with the mighty Everest looming above. Upon reaching Gorakshep, you will drop your gear and head to Everest Base Camp. Standing at the base of the world's highest peak is an unforgettable experience. After soaking in the views, you’ll return to Gorakshep to rest for the night.
Day 6 : Hike Up to Kala Patthar (5,555m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m) - Duration: 6-7 hours.
An early morning hike to Kala Patthar will reward you with one of the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. The sunrise from this vantage point is one of the highlights of the trek. Afterward, you will trek down to Gorakshep, gather your belongings, and head toward Dzongla. The route is scenic but involves a moderate descent and ascent, passing through alpine meadows and rocky landscapes.
Day 7 : Cross Cho La Pass (5,420m) & Trek to Gokyo (4,790m) - Duration: 9-10 hours.
Today, you will cross the Cho La Pass, another challenging high-altitude pass at 5,420 meters. The terrain is rocky and snowy, and the weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for difficult conditions. Once you cross the pass, you will descend toward Gokyo, a beautiful village located by the Gokyo Lakes. The stunning turquoise waters and the surrounding mountain views make this one of the most scenic parts of the trek.
Day 8 : Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360m) & Trek Down to Thame (3,820m) - Duration: 7-9 hours.
The day begins with the ascent to Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters. The pass offers extraordinary views of Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, you will descend toward Thame, a charming Sherpa village with a rich history. Thame is a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the traditional Sherpa culture.
Day 9 : Trek from Thame to Phakding (2,640m) - Duration: 6-7 hours.
From Thame, you’ll descend to Phakding, passing through lush forests and quaint villages. The trail is more relaxed today, providing an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the lower Khumbu region. Upon arrival in Phakding, you can relax and prepare for the final stretch of the trek.
Day 10 : Trek from Phakding to Lukla (2,860m) - Duration: 4-5 hours.
The last day of trekking brings you back to Lukla, where the trek began. This is a relatively short trek, offering a final chance to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Everest region as you retrace your steps along the Dudh Koshi River. Upon reaching Lukla, you can celebrate the completion of your incredible journey.
Day 11 : Fly Back to Kathmandu - Duration: 35 minutes.
On the final day of your trek, you’ll take a flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The scenic flight provides one last opportunity to admire the majestic Himalayas before you return to the bustling city of Kathmandu, where your adventure concludes.
SERVICES
What’s Included in Your Package:
- Domestic Airport pick-up and private car/jeep transport.
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruit is served every evening after dinner.
- Accommodation in trekking lodges (Tea Houses) throughout the trek.
- All necessary paperwork, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Round-trip Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flights, along with private airport transfers and domestic airport taxes.
- A highly experienced, friendly, knowledgeable, English-speaking, government-licensed guide, with all his salary, meals, accommodation, transport, and insurance covered.
- Strong and helpful Sherpa porters (one porter for every two trekkers), equipped with proper safety and walking gear, including their salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
- Comprehensive medical supplies, including a first aid kit.
- Emergency helicopter service arrangements (covered by your travel insurance company).
- Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if you don’t have your own; to be returned after the trip).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt.
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Oxygen meter to monitor your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily, helping to detect any symptoms of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) and ensuring your well-being during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
What’s Not Included in Your Package:
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch and dinner).
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easily obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu). Visa fees are as follows: $30 USD for a 15-day visa, $50 USD for a 30-day visa, and $125 USD for a 90-day visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, additional services).
- All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, and cold or hot drinks during the trek (purchased along the way or in the tea houses).
- Desserts and sweet items such as chocolate, cake, pie, and pudding.
- Hot showers and battery charging services at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is customary).
- Excess baggage over 10 kg for the Lukla flight.
Note: If you need to return early from the trek due to illness or any unforeseen circumstances, the costs for the flight, hotel, meals, mountain rooms, etc., are non-refundable. You will be responsible for any additional expenses in Kathmandu, including hotel and food costs.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
🏃♂️ Physical fitness requirement:
The Shortest Everest Three High Pass Trek is a tough adventure only for the trekkers with great physical fitness. It means long days, physically demanding days, high in the mountains, and endurance and strength and learning to deal with rough and tumble conditions. It is not recommended for novice trekkers or those with little trekking experience.
🌄 Zodiac Insight: High Altitude Considerations
As you’ll hit high-altitude passes during the trek, you’ll also need to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Get Fit for Trekking Above 5,000 Meters (16,400 Feet) Some symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue so it's important to listen to your body and take rest days if needed.
🌤️ Weather Conditions:
The weather on Everest can change unpredictably, with freezing at altitude in winter. Dress in layers, warm jacket, gloves, hat. Look up the forecast for your dates of travel to make sure you’re ready for a variety of conditions.
📝 Permits & Documentation:
If you want to trek in the Everest region, you will require a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card and a Sagarmatha National Park permit. These are organized by your trekking agency before leaving and these permits are necessary for your safety and access to the protected areas of the region.
🏡 Lodging & Amenities:
While hiking you will stay in teahouses, basic lodges that serve simple meals in common dining areas and offer shared rooms. Expect basic facilities including toilets and hot water, but the higher up you go, the more rudimentary the facilities will be. But during the trek, it’s always good to have rustic preparations.
👨🏫 Guides and Porters:
It is highly advised to trek along with a licensed guide and porter for both safety and ease of use. You will also benefit from some hands-on experience of traveling light, as the trek includes a guide who knows the region's terrain like the back of his hand and a porter who will carry your heavy luggage, ensuring you focus on the trek itself.
💧 Hydration & Nutrition:
At high altitudes, staying hydrated is critical. You'll want to bring a reusable water bottle, and water purification tablets or a filter to ensure drinking water along the way is safe. You’ll also have to eat a balanced diet with plenty of energy-rich snacks because trekking, especially at high altitudes, takes more fuel for your body.
Altitude Sickness Prevention: 🛑
To reduce the chance of altitude sickness, make sure to drink plenty of fluids, steer clear of alcohol, and take it slow and easy. Acclimatization days are incorporated into the trek to give your body a chance to adjust to the altitude, but always be attentive to your own health and get help if you do not feel well.
🛡️ Travel Insurance:
Be sure to have good travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical helicopter evacuation, and other emergencies. This will assure you in case you require medical assistance or evacuation on the trek.
🌍 Environmental Responsibility:
Trekking in the Everest region is about moving through fragile ecosystems. Be mindful of your environmental impact by staying on marked trails, not littering and using eco-friendly products. Obey local laws and treat the nature around you appropriately so that the area is preserved for future trekkers.
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FAQS
Is the Shortest Everest Three High Pass Trek suitable for beginners?
No, this trek is designed for experienced trekkers who have high-altitude trekking experience. The terrain is rugged, and the trek involves crossing high passes at over 5,000 meters, making it challenging.
How long does the trek take?
The trek lasts for 11 days, including acclimatization days and the actual trekking days to cross the three high passes and reach key points like Everest Base Camp.
What are the main passes we will cross during the trek?
The trek involves crossing three major passes: Kongmala Pass, Renjo La Pass, and Cho La Pass. These passes are among the highest in the region, providing incredible views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Do I need special permits for this trek?
Yes, trekkers need a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card and a Sagarmatha National Park permit to trek in the Everest region. These can be arranged by your trekking agency.
What kind of physical fitness is required for this trek?
The trek requires good physical fitness, as it involves long trekking hours and high-altitude conditions. Trekkers should have prior experience with high-altitude treks and be in excellent cardiovascular shape.
Will there be opportunities to acclimatize during the trek?
Yes, there will be acclimatization days built into the itinerary, which will allow your body to adjust to the altitude before continuing to higher elevations.
What type of accommodation will be available during the trek?
You will stay in teahouses along the route, which provide basic amenities like shared rooms and simple meals. As you gain altitude, the accommodations become more basic.
What should I pack for this trek?
Pack lightweight, high-performance gear suitable for cold weather, including warm layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy trekking boots, gloves, a hat, and trekking poles. Don’t forget a water bottle and snacks for energy.
Is there any risk of altitude sickness during the trek?
Yes, due to the high altitudes, there is a risk of altitude sickness. To minimize this, it’s important to pace yourself, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take acclimatization days when needed.
Is travel insurance necessary for the trek?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Make sure it covers high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and any potential emergencies. This ensures peace of mind in case of unexpected situations during the trek.
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