World → Asia → Nepal → Everest Base Camp
UPDATE. As of April 1, 2023 the Nepal government required that major treks can no longer be done independently. Hiring a guide is mandatory. The obvious alternative is the Indian Himalaya IF you want to hike independently.
We’ve done a strike through on sections that referred to past independent trekking. There’s some chance they will allow it again some time in future.
It SEEMS the least expensive, most independent, way to do Everest now is to organize everything yourself. Carry your own pack. And hire a registered guide willing to follow your intended itinerary. Leave a comment if we’ve got that wrong in late 2023.
Click PLAY or watch a 1 minute preview on YouTube.
In 2020 trekking mostly stopped due to the COVID pandemic.
The Everest region wasn’t as badly affected by the April 2015 earthquake as were Langtang, Manaslu and Annapurna.
Attention – In 2019, most flights to and from Lukla were flying into and out of Manthali airport, not Kathmandu. At least a 4 hour drive added each way.
Attention – Since October 2018, a new new local entry Khumbu permit is required for the Everest treks. If flying to Lukla, buy it there. If trekking from Jiri or Salleri buy it in Monjo. You can’t get it anywhere else. Cost is Rs 2,000 (approximately $20) for most foreigners.
The Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card is no longer required on Everest as this Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality of Solukhumbu district replaces it.
In summary, permits needed for independent foreigners as of 2019:
Khumbu permit – Rs 2,000 (approximately $20) at Lukla or MonjoSagarmatha Park permit – Rs 3,000 (Approx. US $30) in Kathmandu at the Tourism Board Office — or in Monjo at the Park Entrance Gate.
Easiest would be pay for both at Monjo Park Entrance.
If you sign on with a trekking guide, they will get all required permits for you.
Everest Base Camp / 3 Passes
Every hiker wants to see Sagarmatha – goddess mother of the world
There’s NO shortage of information on how to hike to Everest Base Camp (5,320m / 17,450ft) in Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal.
But the best route is fairly new, via three high passes:
Kongma La (5,535m)
Cho La (5,380m)
Renjo La (5,388m)
You can do one, two or three of those.
If 3 Passes are not challenging enough, you add a side trip to any of these trekking peaks:
- Kala Pattar (5,545m) … the most popular
- Gokyo Ri (5,483m) … similar vista to Renjo La
- Nangkartshang (5073m)
- Chukkung Ri (5,550m)
Pokalde Peak 5806m (19,048ft) is an option, too. But requires a climbing permit as does the much more popular Island Peak 6,189 m (20,305 ft).
Sacred Gokyo Lakes is a superb side-trip.
The focus of this page is this difficult 3 Passes route.
AT A GLANCE
- in 2013 we moved 3 Passes to our list of top 10 hikes in the world, replacing the Annapurna Circuit
- majority of hikers in the Everest region hire a guide, porter(s) and/or pack animal(s) but
it’s fairly easy to do independently - guided trekkers stay in lodges, or sprawling tent encampments
- October to November best months
- beginning of March to mid-May next best
- 16-18 days minimum for 3 Passes. 21 days would allow for rest / illness / sidetrip / and other unanticipated delays.
- if you don’t have time, it’s recommended 14 days just to get to Base Camp and back safely.
- generally easy hiking on good trails with a light pack. Some very challenging, potentially dangerous sections, if you cross any of the 3 Passes
- on the main trails buy food as you go and stay in simple “lodges”
- Everest trails are not expensive, but many spend more than they anticipate on luxuries
- be clear — you might have to QUIT if by bad luck or rushed ascent you suffer altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS).
- many suffer respiratory problems. And fatigue.
- in 2022, Kellinu Portelli died in his Lobuche room at night of high-altitude pulmonary edema.
- Dengue Fever reached Nepal 2004. Cases increasing ever since. Tourists advised to avoid mosquito bites.
Why We Like This Hike
- wonderful photographic opportunities
- it’s fun to leave the main trails, take to the paths less traveled
- very little gear is needed
- you can easily get pack weight down to 10kg (22lbs)
- walk with no tent, stove or food. Stay in lodges, eat in simple restaurants. Books are often available for rest days.
safe and easy to hike solo- no need to speak Nepali, only English
- food is good and quite safe (compared with Kathmandu)
- Everest is the goal. But our favourite peak is Ama Dablam, much more visible en route.
- guest houses sell “hot (luke warm) showers”
- at altitude, food tastes GREAT. The bakery in Tengboche is particularly good.
- Maoists never have bothered trekkers much in the Everest region because the one bridge entrance can be so easily policed
- keep your pack light by resupplying at stores like this one in Dingboche
Tred in the footprints of the great Everest mountaineers. Here’s the shrine of Babu Chiri Sherpa at Dughla Pass
Considerations
First concern of many is the flight in to Lukla Airport 9,380ft (2,860m), officially named Tenzing-Hillary Airport since 2008.
Click PLAY or watch a flight on YouTube.
Most Extreme Airports, broadcast on The History Channel in 2010, rated the airport as most dangerous in the world.
There have been plenty of accidents. Statistically, however, riding a Nepali bus to the Jiri trailhead may be even more dangerous. About 95% of Everest trekkers fly leaving the Jiri walk-up uncrowded.
- if you acclimatize well, and have enough days, it’s relatively easy to get to Everest Base Camp. Most of those evacuated or turned back were unable to acclimatize to altitude.
- the 3 passes are challenging. For example, Kongma La 5535m, is about 9hrs. No facilities. Remote. Rugged. Here’s Pokhalde Base Camp.
- all 3 passes are weather and health permitting. It’s easy to skip any one of the 3
- November 1995 a freak snow storm killed dozens (46 some say) of hikers, porters and guides throughout the Himalaya, most by avalanche. Bring suitable clothing. This Yak knows how to dress.
- Main trails are easy. But crossing glaciers can be difficult and dangerous. Get local advice before you do so.
When hiking independently, we’d follow guided groups. - some hikers buy Diamox in Nepal. It’s called Diamox Sequels in the USA.
- some even bring a course of antibiotics, just in case
- both men and women are advised to wear modest clothing respecting local culture
- treat water
- do not buy bottled water on the trek
- “squater” pit toilets are the norm though western toilets are increasingly available
- you’ll be tempted by pizza, beer, German bakeries and everything else. Almost everyone spends more money than they expect.
- bring a combination padlock for your door
- be wary of crossing bridges if you see pack animals — or heavily laden porters — approaching from the opposite direction. You might be knocked down.
All guides and lodges have phones. More hikers are carrying them.
In Kathmandu buy a SIM card from Nepal Telecom Namaste , the best network for the mountains. Data inexpensive. It works well at least up to Namche.
You might want to avoid telephone in the “wilderness”. But consider how many lives have been saved by modern communication.
- slow internet is available too. At cost. Right up to at Gorak Shep 5,164m.
Cost
As a guide is now required, negotiate cost with their trekking company.
Theseus » cost for guided trek in 2023
Guide was $30/day. Porter about $22/day. We spent another $40-$50/day in food and shelter.
At the end tipped VERY generously to the guide and porters. So for 10 days about $1000. Plus tips.
Cost of stay & food in Kathmandu about $150/day.
Plus flight to and from Kathmandu to Lukla.
______
Guiding company Pristine Nepal:
$800 – $5000 … depending, in 2023
For example, 14 Days EBC trek that includes a guide & porter, accommodation service, meals, permits, domestic-flight fare, transportation, and all other important services at $1,255.
Visa on arrival for most nations at Tribhuvan International, Kathmandu in 2019:
Multiple entry 15 days US$ 30
Multiple entry 30 days US$ 50
Multiple entry 90 days US$ 125
You can pay with credit card or other major currencies. The visa on arrival process is much faster and simpler than in the past. No need to bring passport photos as machines now take your mugshot photo.
In 2016 you could do an Everest trek for $400-$500 (2-3 weeks) to and from Lukla, independently. Frugal Sam and Danielle only spent about $40 / day (or $20 USD/day/person) carrying their own packs.
In 2019 while on the trail Nikki spent about $20 / day hiking up to Namche. About $45 / day above Namche.
Budget and carry at least $40 / day / person in cash to be on the safe side.
Up high, solar showers cost $4-6. Hot water bottles for your sleeping bag $3. Battery charging as high as $7. It adds up.
Bringing a stove & fuel for making your own hot drinks saves money. As does carrying a solar powered battery bank for recharging.
In case of emergency, carry more cash than you need. Nepalese rupees. It’s a cash economy in the mountains.
In 2019 the most we could take out of a bank machine at one time was 35000 NPR (about $300). We used Nabil Bank machines withdrawing directly from our bank cards, not credit cards, to reduce the transaction fee cost and avoid interest.
There is a currency exchange and ATMs in Namche. But the withdrawal limit is lower. The fee higher.
Evacuation by helicopter is expensive. Payment must be guaranteed in advance. Bring your credit card, just in case.
Consider purchasing good insurance coverage for this trip. World Nomads, for example, offers policies covering hikers up to 3000m, 4500m or 6000m.
In 2019 we bought 30 day visas for Nepal. And World Nomads insurance for those same 30 days.
Routes
get a trekking guidebook well in advance and decide on your destination each day. That way you can adjust for weather and fitness. It’s fairly common to take a rest day while ascending to acclimatize for altitude.- The solid red line on the map below shows the standard Base Camp trek. We recommend you add one, two or three of the high passes:
Kongma La (5,535m)
Cho La (5,380m)
Renjo La (5,388m)
- if you want to fly out as most do, consider buying your flight out of Lukla in Kathmandu in advance. You can change the date of your return, if necessary. It might be difficult to get a seat on a plane for the day you want if you try to buy in Lukla. No doubt your guide will take care of this for you.
- Namche Bazaar — one of our top 10 hiking towns in the world — is the end of civilization.
Almost no independent hikers tent. Yet BestHike editor Rick McCharles did (a few nights).
Tenting is absolutely unnecessary. But Rick enjoyed the experience. Surprisingly, dispersed tenting is not illegal in the National Park. But it’s best to be discrete.
Here’s the goal for every Base Camp trekker. Kala Patthar as seen from Gorek Shek. The intimidating mountain in the background is Pumori 7161m (23,494 ft).
And there is the BIG mountain as seen from Kala Patthar.
From the Nepal side, it’s difficult to get a good look at Everest. You must earn the privilege.
Many also trek to Everest Base Camp. It’s a harsh place.
This Google Earth flyover of a Base Camp trek via Cho-La gives you an excellent idea of the terrain. It includes a climb of Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) after acclimatization.
Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.
Hiking independently gives you the freedom to decide each day where you want to go next in the Khumba. There are many, many options once you get there. Decide day-by-day.
related – trekking to Everest North Base Camp in Tibet
Trekking Guides
Consider that you will then be tied into the group itinerary. You’ll travel only as fast as the slowest person in your group.
If not sure, go independently. And — if it turns out you need help — hire a porter, porter-guide or guide and porters yourself on the trail. That can be arranged next day from most lodges.
If you wait until you arrive Nepal, there are dozens of local companies eager to sign you on. Some are great, others less reliable. We would join up only with a company for which we had personal references.
Only TAAN registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu and Pokhara can legally organize treks and provide the services of a guide and/or porter with insurance. Be aware that no one else, no hotel, no street broker, no nice person you just met, not even a trekking guide is legally authorized to organize a trek. During the main seasons the agencies run regular group treks, both tea-house and camping styles …
A guide will show you the way, but not carry your gear. They may be Nepali or foreign. Many hikers are happier to be led — though you certainly can do this hike on your own without a guide. A good guide may enrich the trip for you.
A porter guide from the Trekking Workers’ Association of Nepal is a local who speaks English who may also carry a limited load, perhaps 15kg (33lbs). You can hire a porter guide if and when you need one on the trail for something like US$20 / day plus tip (2019). There is often an insurance fee added.
Check the website of one such porter guide to give you an idea of how it works – Devendra Pun.
Certainly, trekkers regularly have had trouble with guides:
- some can be insistent on where they want you to stop each night. This sometimes leads to conflict.
- they ask for more money, or gear they “forgot” to bring
- they may want to change / shorten the itinerary
- they may ask you hire an additional porter once you get on the trail
Kristen loved her trip with Anywhere Plus.
Compare some of these:
-
- Exodus HIGH PASSES OF EVEREST (about $200 / day / person)
- Bookmundi – 3 Passes (about $95 / day / person)
- Nepal Trekking Holidays 3 Passes
- Himalayan Wonders
- Jagged Globe 3 Passes
- Crusade Himalaya 3 Passes
- One World Trekking – 3 Passes
- World Expeditions Everest High Passes
- Third Rock Adventures
- Mountain Kingdoms 3 Passes
- Unique Paths High Passes
- International Mountain Guides 3 Peaks & 3 Passes
Logistics
If you sign on with a guide, let them organize everything. You are there simply to follow. And enjoy. There’s plenty of time to go off day hiking on your own.
For independent hikers …
get a guidebook earlydecide on what weeks of the year you could trekfinalize how much time you can spend on the trail (3 weeks being the goal)get to Lukla on foot or by airweather permitting, there are dozens of flights everyday Kathmandu to Lukla.the alternative to flying is to walk in from Jiri, 5-7 trekking days west of Lukla. You probably want up to 4 weeks for the Jiri itinerary.once in Lukla, decide day-to-daybest hike is 3 Passessecond best hike is 2 Passes, skipping Renjo
you can try to change your flight to an earlier day if finishing earlier than expectedvisit Kathmandu after you trek, not before. Many get sick in Kathmandu. Get sick after trekking, not before.donate any clothing or gear you don’t want to take home to the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP)TrekkingPartners.com (find others to hike with you)you can now book some lodges in advance online
If you want to hike in rather than take the plane to Lukla, check this post – Everything you need to know about Jeep to Phaplu or Salleri 2018
An intriguing alternative to the terrible 10 hour bone rattling bus rides to possible walking trailheads is flying to Tumlingter instead.
From Tumlingter (460m) you can walk to Lukla (8-12 days) via a little used route, sleeping at the few & rudimentary bhattis (teashops) with simple menus. Mostly dal bhat. Or you could tent en route. This can be done independently or you could hire a guide/porter en route.
Local Information
Best Trekking Guidebooks
Check to see that you are ordering the most recent edition.
- Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya (2009) – Bradley Mayhew & Joe Bindloss – is the first guide you should pick up. It’s got a good overview of 3 Passes.
- Cicerone Everest: A Trekker’s Guide: Trekking routes in Nepal and Tibet (2012) – Kev Reynolds
- Trek Everest Base Camp: The Ultimate Preparation & Survival Guide (PDF) – Jason Weise
- Trailblazer Trekking in the Everest Region, 5th (2009) – Jamie McGuinness
- The Everest Trek: The Everest Trek in the Nepal Himalaya from Jiri to Solu Khumbu, Gokyo and Kalla Pattar – Ian P Johnson
- Trailblazer Nepal Trekking & the Great Himalaya Trail – (2011) Robin Boustead
Best Travel Guidebooks
Yep. We still like Lonely Planet best.
Other Recommended Books
- Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster – Jon Krakauer
- A Beard In Nepal (2012) – Fiona Roberts
- Little Princes: One Man’s Promise to Bring Home the Lost Children of Nepal (2011) – Conor Grennan
- The Snow Leopard – Peter Matthiessen
- Travelers’ Tales Nepal – Rajendra S. Khadka
- The Chomolungma Diaries: What a commercial Everest expedition is really like – Mark Horrell
- Nepal Trek – A Woman Alone (2006) – Kay Petterson Shaw
- The Ascent of Rum Doodle – W.E. Bowman
Best Maps
You are not likely to get lost. Guidebooks are enough. Still, opening up a big map is a good excuse to take a break from walking. 🙂
Online Maps / Apps
Navigation is not difficult in this region. We use the free Maps.me app.
Best Web Pages
- Stingy Nomads – Everest Base Camp independently ($35.60/day)
- The Ultimate Guide To Walking The Everest Base Camp Trek Independently
- KimKim – Everest Region Treks
- Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek – A Complete Guide
- wikitravel – Everest Base Camp Trek
- Lonely Planet – Top Ten Detours off the Everest trek
- wikitravel – Trekking in Nepal
- living if (2012) – Nepal Trekking Tips
- Nepal Trekking Holidays
- World Nomads travel insurance
- TrekkingPartners.com (find others to hike with you)
- Staying online on Everest Basecamp 2018
Best Trip Reports
ramblin’ boy – 3 Passes Trek
- The Longer, The Better – Three Pass Trek (2016)
- Hank Leukart – Without Baggage (2014 guided)
- Stingy Nomads – Everest Base Camp Trek on a Backpacker budget
- Everest 2 Passes (2009) – besthike editor Rick McCharles
- living if (2012) – 3 Passes
- Backpacker – EVEREST CONFIDENTIAL: TREKKING THROUGH NEPAL’S KHUMBU REGION (2012) – Justin Nyberg
- Nepal Trekking Holidays – Paul Darlow – 3 Passes
- Everest Base Camp Trek w porter – FAQ (2013) – Escape Artistes
Leave a comment if you’ve got an up-to-date 3 Passes trip report to recommend.
Movies
First, watch Hank Leukart’s 2017 trip on YouTube.
Next PLAY this one or watch it on YouTube.
Click Play or watch Adrian Dmoch’s excellent edit on YouTube.
Click PLAY or watch some The Rest of Everest drone footage.
Click PLAY or watch Trigger Happy’s trip walking, rather than flying on YouTube.
Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.
Click PLAY or watch Ryan Van Duzer’s 2016 trip on YouTube.
Click PLAY or watch a flyover on YouTube.
If you are seriously researching 3 Passes, sit down and watch this longer mini-documentary.
The traveling Freeses go to Nepal and hike to Chukhung Ri, Kongma La, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Cho La, Gokyo Ri and Renjo La – November 2011.
Click PLAY or watch it on Vimeo.
Questions? Suggestions? Leave a comment on this page. Our editors will reply.
besthike.com 
Just to be able to hike to the Everest base camp would be the adventure of a life time for me. Will make hikin AZ look amateurish. haha
http://nepaltreckingguide.jimdo.com/
I liked your blog so much that I just changed my trekking plan. First I was going to trek Jiri-Lukla-Gokyo-Cho La-Island Peak-Amphu Labtsa-Lukla. I was going to do this independently except Amphu part. But now I think that I’ll leave the Amphu part to an other trip. How are the snow conditions in 3 passes during April-May? Any advice about the gear?
I’ve been to the Himalaya 4 times, … in Oct/Nov.
If you are carrying your own pack, my advice is to travel light. You can always buy anything extra you need in Nepal.
Last trip I picked up (fake) Gortex jacket and down jacket at the factory in Thamel.
I’m going in April, cannot wait ! Great information here to prepare myself a bit better.
Great information, 2 Aussies heading off on this trek on 19th March. Looks fantastic and looks to be even better then our Peru trek.
Hi, thanks for the greatfull info, I am going begin may to Kathmandu, will stay there 3-4 day than will do the three passes track. the only thing that i dont know is, do i need a tent because i dont know if everywhere louges.
Thanks
Bunyan
No need to carry a tent. It’s easy to trek lodge to lodge.
Thanks for your amazing website – so many places to go! I’m planning to do 3 Passes independently in November. You mention that guides are available in most villages. Does this mean that it would be easy enough to hire a guide for the Kongma La day, or any other days involving potentially dangerous glacier crossings, difficult to follow trails etc?
Thanks,
Drew
Yes it is.
On arrival at any lodge, inquire. I’m sure you can hire a guide same day from almost any lodge.
I just came back from Solukhumbu to Kathmandu. There’s another access point from Sallari/Ringmo. It’s about 2 days from Lukla (via the Jiri route). It’s a great alternative if you couldn’t get a flight out of Lukla. From Sallari it’s easy to hire a jeep back to Kathmandu, but be prepared to spend 18 hours on the road. Sometimes it’s also possible to call the jeep directly to Ringmo, it will shave 3 hours off. The cost is about 30 USD.
Thanks Long. Good to know.
Hi Rick, I went May the route via Thame then Renjo pass and cho la pass to ebc. Unfortunately i didnt go to kongma la pass because i hurt my ankle on renjo pass. Therefore i will go back next year because it was realy cool. btw i didnt not before trekking, that was my first trekking at all. and it was not difficult.
Next year i would like do the annapurna circuit and the route from jiri to lukla and of course the kongma la pass.
I would like do the island peak also do you have any info about the island peak, how can i get favorable to the island peak.
thanks and best rgds
bunyan
I’ve not climbed Island Peak. Seems easy to join a group going, however, out of Kathmandu.
Hello Bunyan, I am planning for EBC and three passes this October. I would like to get some information regarding this trek. Could you please drop me a message at ishpeaks@gmail.com. Thanks.
http://www.aboutnepaltreks.com/everest-three-pass-trek.html
Everest three pass trekking also call Everest 3 passes trek, high pass trekking in Nepal. Everest three pass trek is located in world popular Khumbu area. This is land of sherpa and first mountain Everest climber Ten jingNorga sherpa. 20 days long trekking Everest three pass trek provide to people to enjoy with breathtaking view of high mountain, Himalaya, Sherpa culture and green jungle still above 4000 m. so this all would be interesting for you.
http://www.aboutnepaltreks.com/everest-three-pass-trek.html
Everest three pass treks mostly love by adventures travelers and young student group. traveler have to cross 3 world highest pass which is above 5000 m and so there would be high chance of altitude sickness . so this we call in Nepal one of adventures activities to do this trek.
http://www.aboutnepaltreks.com/everest-three-pass-trek.html
http://www.aboutnepaltreks.com/ghorepani-poonhill-trek.html
Hi,
I returned from Nepal June 1st and did independently 3 passes clockwise. I managed to find some amazing companions on my from Lukla up and we didn’t have any need for guides. But if you are unexperienced trekker the guide might be a good idea. However I did hire a porter for Cho La and Kongma La to keep up with my travel mates who have been in Nepal already over 4 months. I used the porter until the highest point of those passes. Price was about 3000 rupies for each pass. Sometimes local porter is a lot better guide than Kathmandu guide. We guided in two occasions groups with guides. For most guides it looks like compass and ability to read maps is not in their abilities list.
I found the clockwise direction much better than the opposite. In both Cho La and Kogma La you can do the hard part first – glacier crossing and steep ascent. In Cho La we actually did the glacier crossing day before. And of course the scenery is better – all the beutiful mountains are in front of you instead back.
In April in all passes it started snowing in the afternoon, but we managed to do all of them before the snowing started. In Cho La one guided group that came after us gat lost in snow storm, but they manged to find they way after snowing stopped.
One advise I would give is give yourself time, for first week I thought that this is hell and I’m not in as good shape as I thought. All the up hills and lack of oxygen made me slow, short of breath and so week. My mates were use to high altitude after over 4 months in Nepal and as they were moving steadily and discussing the meaning of life, I was swearing and moving my legs very slowly far behind them. But after 10 days I realized that this is fun and I can even talk while walking.
Have a nice adventure!
Jukka
Thanks for the update, Jukka. 🙂
It’s mentioned on this page that in 2013 you could do the trek for about $400-$500 (3 weeks) if doing it independently. I’d be interested to hear a few more opinions on this from people who have done the trek in the past year or so.
We’re going to do this trek in October 2014. We’ll be doing it independently, probably mostly sticking with the local food but probably with some apple pie and beer every now and then too. I imagine we’ll be happy to pay for hot showers every few days, and battery charging too. There will be two of us (my girlfriend and I).
Also, are US dollars useful on the trek or only rupees?
I can’t wait!
You need rupees. They don’t want dollars.
That means taking enough rupees to be sure you don’t run out. … Which means you’ll probably spend more rupees than you expected.
Hi Rick, my girlfriend and I are off to do the 3 Passes in October. Some people have suggested that it’s worth having microspikes (http://kahtoola.com/product/microspikes/) or something similar for the passes and glaciers. Is this overkill do you think? I’ve read various trip reports, some people say the passes are extremely dangerous and difficult, others say they’re no big deal (the comment above mine for example). It’s hard to know what to expect. Obviously we wouldn’t attempt the passes in bad weather, but apart from that, what precautions do you suggest?
Thanks very much,
Drew
I would not take any special footwear for the snow and ice. The route is quite well trodden.
Hi Drew, i did it in Mai 2014 and in my aspect the Chola pass was exacting then the other two.
and i did it with crossing shoes,
i dont know maybe in october is ther more snow.
It is amazing there. I want to do it again.
Rgds Bunyan
This post is amazing, and makes me want to ask you for some advice.
It was suggested to me that i start hiking this trek form Jiri, because coming from a lower elevation means you get to pass through some more diverse terrain and landscape (this is a priority of mine). Is this something you would recommend? do you know how many days it would add onto the trek? would the section from Jiri to Lukla still have tea house accommodation and be easy to do solo?
the other trek that has been recomended to me for the purposes of seeing a variety of terrain is the manaslu trek. could you say if one is better than the other for hiking in diverse landscapes (a variety of forests and more lush regions, as opposed the the more arid high mountain terrain)?
Very few trek to Lukla. But the few I met that did told me they enjoyed it. There are teahouses, but not nearly as many. Get a good guidebook if you do trek rather than fly.
I’ve done Everest and Manaslu over the past few years. For me Everest is slightly better. You cannot hike Manaslu independently, only with a guide.
We did the 3 -passes and started from Paphlu which was great. Because of the weather there were no flights from Lukla to return to Kathmandu, so we walked out via Jiri (another four days). All in all it was a breathtaking tour which took us 5 weeks. The sights were great, the thin air no problem, but the four weeks over 4500m were very col! So take a warm sleeping bag and maybe a pee-bottle.
Hi
First of all thank you for all the information about the trek.
I am a girl and I plan to do the trek in October. I am a bit confused about which permits do I need. What exactly in TIMS and where can I get it. I plan to start the trek in Bhandar. I am solo independent tracker. If there is anyone with similar plans can contact me on
palmanova.cen@gmail.com
All the best
Palmanova
I found a great trekking partner and new friend via this site:
http://www.trekkingpartners.com/
If you do not get that information in advance, go directly to this organization in Thamel, Kathmandu. It’s easy to find.
(KEEP) Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (Porters’ Clothing Bank)
They will send you to this big building, Tourism Board office in Kathmandu, not quite so easy to find. That’s where you get the 2 permits you need for Everest trekking independently.
Thank you.
🙂
As being a owner of legal travel agency (Attentive holiday tours and travel) and legal trekking agency ( Himalaya Arirang Trek http://www.trekadventurenepal.com) I have great experience of arranging trekking packages in Everest region. If anyone is planning to trek in Everest please go through above post the post is providing correct information. If you have any question please feel free to email me. I will provide free information. Wish you a wonderful trekking in Everest.
This post is amazing, and makes me want to ask you for some advice.
It was suggested to me that i start hiking this trek form Jiri, because coming from a lower elevation means you get to pass through some more diverse terrain and landscape (this is a priority of mine). Is this something you would recommend? do you know how many days it would add onto the trek? would the section from Jiri to Lukla still have tea house accommodation and be easy to do solo?
http://www.wellnepaltreks.com/nepal/trekking/everest-region/everest-high-pass-trekking.html
(http://nepalflightticketbooking.com/charter-services/muktinath-darshan-with-helicopter.html)
Those with enough time (3-4 weeks) prefer to start from Jiri. There are quiet trails and teahouses all the way up to Lukla. Solo and independent, no problem.
I know I was altitude sick for a day on arrival in Lukla by plane.
The only downside is the hellish ground transport to Jiri from Kathmandu. That scares me more than the plane landing in Lukla.
Compliments for your fantastic website!!! I really like it! This Summer we hiked the West Coast Trail and Sunshine to Assiniboine and both loved them!
We are considering to do the hike from Jiri to Namche Bazar and than continue to Everest Basecamp / 3 Passes. Would September (starting around September 1) be a good month to do this?
Marcel
September is NOT a good month in our opinion. November and May … and the months either side are best. September is end of monsoon.
On the other hand, people do the trek year round.
http://www.tibettravel.org/tibet-travel-advice/best-time-to-everest.html
Wow, what an amazing resource. I’m planning to go to Nepal in mid feb to early March and the time is pretty much fixed. I was thinking of doing the Manaslu but after reading this I really want to do the three pass circuit (with Gokya lakes of course :)).
Do you recommend this trek in mid to late Feb? Ill be bringing a tent in case a tea house happens to be closed. Thoughts?
Thanks!
February would be nice, I think. But cold. Bring (or buy in Kathmandu) plenty of warm clothing.
In that area enough teahouses will be open, I believe, but the tent is a good idea. Just in case.
Hi Rick, I’m doing the trek in about a month but can’t decide whether to go clockwise or anticlockwise. Would you recommend one direction over the other in terms of views? I prefer steep ascents to steep descents does this favour one direction over the other?
Thanks
I truly doubt your knees will be able to tell the difference. The total ascent and decent is so close I suspect the impact force will be about equal.
So … no advice. The passes are not all that steep in any case, as I recall. Merely long and high. No severe problem if you are acclimatized and the weather is good.
Hi i would prefer anticlockwise like i did last year and i will do it in march again and including the island peak. I hope everything will go smooth.
If somebody will join, don’t hesitate to contact me
brgds bunyan
I’d be interested in hiking with you if you have not left already!
Hi Rick,
This article is absolutely great and I would like to ask you a few more questions just to be sure, because I plan to do this trip (EBC 3 passes) next October/November and I want to do it independantly as much as I can. I have done the Kilimanjaro and have some experience with long, solo trekking, but Nepal is all new to me.
My first (and main) concern is about accommodation. Are there plenty of lodges along the route, even when taking the three passes? The only map I have doesn’t give a lot of information and I’ve never been able to know if yes or no, it was 100% feasable alone without a tent.
Second, do you recommand doing this alone, without any guide or porter? Accepting the idea that I will only take the road when the locals in the lodges say the weather is good enough, is it secure or are there any specific very dangerous parts?
Thank you very much, this is incredibly helpful!
Alex
There are no lodges on the passes themselves, but nobody carries a tent. (Except me.)
They are not difficult in good weather, when acclimatized. On any given day there are many people crossing each Pass in October/November.
You stay at the closest lodge to the Pass. Then get going early on the day of the crossing. Weather is a factor. You may opt not to go on any given day, depending on the skies.
The bigger factor is Everest. When the weather forecast is good, you may want to dash up to Base Camp as quickly as possible. Otherwise, that peak may be clouded over.
The one night I tented just over one of the passes was bloody cold. My hiking shoes froze solid.
You can do Everest base camp independently however for the three passes its better to have guide in 2014 in September we were trekking with a big group and we say some individual traveler in trouble 1 russian coupple were badly sick and some Chinese tourist were missing their friends however it depends on weather and how well you are if you haven’t trek yet hope this post will help if anything email2sherpa@gmail.com
Hi guys my girlfriend and I are planning to trek the 3 passes and the EBC next month. I have been told we need to hire a guide in order to obtain the permits for the trek as of the new law. How true is this?. We would rather not hire a guide and do it on our own. If the going does get tough, we might hire a porter at one of the tea houses.
Newal
You don’t need a guide or any extra permits to trek to Everest Base Camp or the 3 passes.
Some of the guiding companies like to hint that you do. They want your cash.
If you dont want to hire a guide hire a porter guide it would be better
Hi Rick thank you for the information. Our plan is to start early on the 30/03/15 to lukla from KTM and finish the trek by 14/04/15.I will pop in later for more advice, if anything does change. Thanks again.
Hi Rick or anyone else that knows,
Just wondering what your experience of the snow conditions are like around late April to late May (if you’ve ever trekked in the region during this time). The weather bureau gives you a feel for the the lower altitudes (i.e. 14-25 degrees C). Would you recommend snow pants or gaiters for snow walking if there is any on the passes. Trying to pack light and smart as I want to carry my own things.
Cheers, Phil
I’ve gone 5 times. In November.
I love the clear, cold skies.
But many argue that April / May is better. Prepare for melting snow and muddy conditions, just in case.
Hope this helps.
Thanks Rick, Sure does!
great topic!
I will do this:
Dag1:
Vanaf Lukla ga naar beneden naar Cheplung ( 2500m )
Ga naar Phakding ( 2600m )
Dag2:
Ga van Phakding naar Namche bazaar ( 3440m )
Dag3:
Namche Bazaar naar Thame ( 3800m )
Dag4:
Thame naar Marulung ( 4200m )
Dag5:
Marulung naar Rermo Pokhari ( 4875m )
Dag6:
Rermo Pokhari via Renjo Pass ( 5345m ) naar Gokyo ( 4750m )
Dag7:
Gokyo naar Gokyo Peak ( 5480m ) en terug naar Gokyo ( 4750m )
Dag8:
Gokyo naar Nyimagawa ( 5050m )
Dag9:
Nyimagawa via Cho La pass ( 5420m ) naar Dzongla ( 4840m )
Dag10:
Dzongla naar Lobuche ( 4920m )
Dag11:
Lobuche naar Gorakshep ( 5160m )
Dag12:
Gorakshep naar EBC ( 5560m ) naar Lobuche ( 4920m )
Dag13:
Lobuche via Kongma La Pass ( 5535m ) naar Camp ( 5200m )
Dag14:
Camp naar Chhukung ( 4730m )
Rustdag
Dag15:
Chhukung naar Island Peak Base Camp ( 5100m )
Dag16:
Island Peak trek niet tot de top ( 6000m )
Dag17:
Chhukung naar Pangboche ( 3900m )
Dag18:
Pangboche naar Namche Bazaar ( 3400m )
Dag19:
Namche Bazaar naar Lukla ( 2800m )
Maybe I put Pokalde and Kala Pattar in as well… I have 40 days for trekking!
I’ll do it in november/december… So I guess I need crampons? 🙂
btw dag means day and naar means to 😀
Hi Nick, if you have 40 days for trekking, so you have plenty of time. Thing about starting in Jiri and walk to Namche instead of flying to Lukla. We trekked the three passes tour from Jiri to Namche, ChukungRi, Kongma La, EBC, Cho La, Gokyo Ri, Renjo La and flying back from Lukla in 2011. Starting in Jiri needs 5 days more but it’s really worth, because you are walking in a different area — djungle, tea plants, orange trees– so it’s a different and an additional impression to the landscape above Lukla and it’s good for acclimatization and definitly good for condition.
I’m not sure, but I would recommend doing the three passes against clock-wise. Your plan takes a lot uphill and time to reach the passes. As i remember as usual the view was clearer in the morning, so reaching the pass early is not a bad idea.
We have done the trek in November and we didn’t need crampons. Down from ChoLa, –in your direction up to–, was a little bit slippy, but not difficult. But this depends to the weather conditions.
but whatever you will do in this area, you will enjoy it.
Greetings
juergen
Interesting reading .Our group of 3 plus a guide (Dhil…brilliant man who we’ve used for two other treks in past) plus 2 porters is leaving for Nepal tomorrow19th March 2015…the 3 Peaks Trek looks like a great challenge for us….a little harder maybe than our last trek (Manaslu & Tsum Valley plus Thorong La & Larke Pass in 2013.) Regards, Bruce Field
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Looking for recommendations for a guide/porter for basic needs and organization to do the Three Passes the fall 2015
Thanks
Click through and compare some of the trekking guiding companies on this page.
I was there in Feb and we hired a porter/guide at Lukla itself who turned out to be absolutely fantastic. Let me know if you need one and I’ll send across his details and you could get in touch with him.
This is a great article and answered many questions I had in mind including best direction (clockwise/anticlockwise), best time, footwear, tents v/s lodges, etc. Many thanks for putting together the article and also thanks for responding to all questions; those answers are also very informative.
I am planning to solo this trek in late October (15 Oct to 1 Nov) and have two questions:
1/ After the recent earthquakes, are there any changes to the route? More importantly, are all the lodges operational?
2/ I have charted out 18-day itinerary (Kathmandu to Kathmandu). I see most people are saying this is a 21-day trek; given that I am going anticlockwise I would have acclimatized sufficiently by the time I reach Loubuche/Gorakshep and then can pace up a bit towards the end after Gokyo, and therefore I believe 18 days would not be too short.
Any suggestions?
Many thanks in advance,
– Kedar
I feel 18 days is just right. I could have made it in 15 days on the trail counting 2 rest days on the trail.
If you have to catch a flight, however, there’s a chance the planes won’t be flying the day you need to get out. It would be great to have 2-3 days in Kathmandu end of your trip as a safety margin.
I’ve not heard of any earthquake problems in the Everest region.
First of all… thanks for all of the great info! So many of my questions have been answered on this single site.
I have opportunity to travel to Nepal in late August and early September. I realize that this is the end of the monsoon season and I’m curious about what to expect (other than potential rainy days) while doing the 3 passes trek? Should I be concerned about snowfall at the high passes? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
Many lodges will be closed. … It’s a bit risky logistics wise.
hmm …
Another major problem is the aftermath of the Earthquake. I can’t imagine what kinds of new problems may have been created even though the Everest region was not affected.
Best try to contact people in Kathmandu. Get first hand local advice.
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Everest three pass trekking is a wonderful trekking itinerary in the region of Everest which also includes some of the popular and tough passes in the region. The three passes which you come across during the trek are Kongma-La Pass, Cho-La Pass and Renjo-La Pass. The trail to the three pass trekking takes you to the Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La Pass moving towards the higher elevation. Besides, the trekkers will also have the opportunity to enjoy trekking in the Everest region and will also come across some of the popular places in Everest like Namche, Thame and Kala Patthar, also known as the Everest Base Camp. Everest three pass trekking is generally tough in nature as you have to cross the passes all of which are above 5000 meters of altitude.
Some of the major attractions of the Everest three pass trekking are the places you come across during the course of the trek. The places include the region of Kalapatthar, Gokyo Valley along with its beautiful lake and the Gokyo peak also called as the Gokyo Ri. Everest High Pass and three passes trekking satisfies the desire of every trekker who intends to trek and explore along the region of Everest and at the same time who also wants to enjoy the wonderful views of the tall mountains of the Everest region.
Everest three pass trekking (Kongma-La, Cho La and Renjo-La Pass) starts from the Capital city of Kathmandu when you take a mountain flight to Lukla, flying above the mountains and enjoying the 30 minutes of flight. Upon landing at the Lukla Airport, your real journey starts when you start hiking to Phakding and Namche Bazaar. It is a long itinerary lasting for more than 20 days.
Everest three pass trekking is a wonderful trekking itinerary in the region of Everest which also includes some of the popular and tough passes in the region. The three passes which you come across during the trek are Kongma-La Pass, Cho-La Pass and Renjo-La Pass. The trail to the three pass trekking takes you to the Kongma La, Cho La and Renjo La Pass moving towards the higher elevation. Besides, the trekkers will also have the opportunity to enjoy trekking in the Everest region and will also come across some of the popular places in Everest like Namche, Thame and Kala Patthar, also known as the Everest Base Camp. Everest three pass trekking is generally tough in nature as you have to cross the passes all of which are above 5000 meters of altitude.
Some of the major attractions of the Everest three pass trekking are the places you come across during the course of the trek. The places include the region of Kalapatthar, Gokyo Valley along with its beautiful lake and the Gokyo peak also called as the Gokyo Ri. Everest High Pass and three passes trekking satisfies the desire of every trekker who intends to trek and explore along the region of Everest and at the same time who also wants to enjoy the wonderful views of the tall mountains of the Everest region.
Everest three pass trekking (Kongma-La, Cho La and Renjo-La Pass) starts from the Capital city of Kathmandu when you take a mountain flight to Lukla, flying above the mountains and enjoying the 30 minutes of flight. Upon landing at the Lukla Airport, your real journey starts when you start hiking to Phakding and Namche Bazaar. It is a long itinerary lasting for more than 20 days.
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Hi, thanks for the great article!
I understand that there is a difference between trekking ‘independently’ and trekking ‘solo’. I am planning to do the three passes trek in April, would it be reckless to attempt it on my own without a guide or porter? Additionally, is it really that easy to hire a guide or porter during the trek? I would like to see what I can do myself, but don’t really want tot get caught out further up in the mountains.
Thanks in advance.
Seb.
I did the first two of the three passes independently and solo. No problem.
I waited until the weather was good. AND I waited to follow larger guided groups in a couple of cases, once to see where they crossed a snow field.
It is VERY easy to hire a guide for a day or more pretty much anywhere. At your guesthouse make a request the night prior for the next day. They will find someone for you.
Thanks for the prompt reply! So there isn’t any point at all in securing a guide in Katmandu?
I have also thought of a few other questions, if you wouldn’t mind sparing the time?!
Is it easy to communicate when getting accommodation during the trek? I was anticipating needing a guide to haggle at the tea houses?
The impression I have got is that a guide is absolutely not required for the basecamp part of the trek, can you confirm this??
Can your recommend any specific maps for the trek? I searched for the two you specify in the above text, and they only seem to cover the base camp part of the trek. Or is it easier to just buy a map in Katmandu?
Seb.
The language on the Everest Base Camp trek is English. All the Nepalis speak it there.
The majority of people do Base Camp without a guide. It’s a hike. If you have enough days to acclimatize to altitude, it’s not a problem.
Wait for Kathmandu to buy a map. You have many options in dozens of bookstores. Most people use the simple maps in their guidebooks, however.
I’m really impressed with the details in this article. Kudos for this. But I must admit that few details in this article has to be updated.
Leave another comment with anything you’d like to update, Rahul.
Its wonderful trekking, I have been 25 times. I never forget it. http://www.asianhikingteam.com/everest-trekking-three-passes.html
Alpine Eco Trek is a well-known government licensed trekking and travel company in Nepal, offers a wide range of travel and adventure tours for individuals and groups wishing to visit Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and India. We are a highly professional team with 19 years of experience organizing heritage, cultural and pilgrimage tours, trekking, climbing and mountaineering expeditions, whitewater rafting, jungle safaris and other activities in the Himalayan regions.
Hi Rick, thanks for your amazing website. We are planning to take this trip :))
Could you please help us?
I am little bit confused about terms. At the beginning of the article you say: September to mid-November best months, but in the comments above there are comments about September is not the best due to closed lodges, bad weather conditions (monsoon)… So which month is the best? October?
And my second question is: How can we prepare to high altitude? How can we to train? We have experience only from European Alps.
Thank you!
Jakub
Hi Jakub.
For me NOVEMBER is the best month. April / May next best.
But you could possibly do the hike any time aside from the monsoon.
I got sick for a day flying into Lukla. Safest would be to plan extra days in Namche Bazaar (or even Lukla) to acclimatize. If you have 15 days total for Base Camp, acclimatizing should not be a major problem.
To add 2 or 3 Passes, 18 days would be better.
GOOD LUCK.
Hi Rick
My partner and I are doing the 3 passes trek in April. We are camping and not using a guide or porter.
Can you advise as to what is best with the following:
1. Flights to and from Lula to Kathmandu- best to buy online now or in Kathmandu- is there much of a price difference
2. National park permits- get them in Kathmandu or at park entrance?- is there anyway of getting them Prior to arrival in Kathmandu.
Any other advise?
We realise there is no need to camp,but we want to. Packing as light as possible.
Thank you
Buy your flight tickets in Kathmandu. Shop several tourist agencies to compare price.
Surprisingly, you can get your permit at arrival at the Park gate. But it would be safer to pick it up in Kathmandu if you have time.
Hi Rick! First of all, thanks for the amazing information on your website!
I’m kind of deciding which trek I want to do in Nepal. One the ultimate things for me is doing a hike like this all by myself. That means no companions, no guides, porters etc. I am aware of the dangers that come with that, so it’s really hard to decide if this trek is not too much. I’m fit, young, and quite experienced with hiking, though I’ve done only a couple hikes in the Himalayas. Do you think that I could do this by myself? How many people will go on this hike per day (mid April)? And is the trek easy to follow?
Secondly, how much cold should I expect? I’ve got proper sweaters, a hat and gloves, but I’m mostly wondering about my jacket. It’s a gore-tex, wind and waterproof jacket, but it’s more of a raincoat rather than a thick winter jacket. Combined with proper sweaters, is that enough or not at all?
I did 15 days on Everest trails mostly on my own. But you’re never alone. There are hikers everywhere. It’s a treat to be out of sight of other people once in a while.
It’s very safe. Probably the safest trek in Nepal after Annapurna.
It does go below freezing most nights. The teahouse rooms are not heated. I always take a full hooded down jacket on high treks, just in case. I’m never cold with one of those. You could pick one up a knock-off in Kathmandu for less than $50. I’m still wearing the one I bought for $40. Quality is quite good.
What is the two passes trek? Is that Everest base camp and gokyo ri?
How does it compare with the three passes?
How dangerous is the three passes trek?
Thanks a lot for sharing this perfect article.I really, really appreciate your time and efforts for writing such a quality article.
I have done 3 passes much time but I haven’t been 5th lake.
Hi Rick
great website,thanks a million for having all your replies.i have a couple of Qs if you dont mind?
I have been to the himalayas 2 times before…1st time ebc trek and last year i did the goyko lakes/ebc trek.March 18.Now i want to do 3 passes,goyko ri,kallapathar,ebc island peak and back to lukla…i really want to do it solo as much as i can.obviously i need to hire a climbing guide for island peak.my questions are
1..any reccomadations on hiring a climbing guide?
2..is it possible to go solo and hire a guide from goyko to take me across the pass?
3..is March a good time you reckon?
4..is it possible to do the passes solo or just follow a groups path maybe?
5..in March would it be okay to go over the passes in my walking boots and not crampons?
6..im getting mixed reports on paying for lodges at night.some say lodge is free once you eat there? or do you think theres a fee for staying the night?
I’ve never hired a climbing guide. Seems to me all the companies in Nepal hire different licences guides for each trip. So it may not make much difference.
It’s easy to hire a guide for a day. For a pass. Ask at any Teahouse. They can set it up.
March is a bit early, I’m guessing. But if weather cooperates all 3 passes are quite doable alone.
I wouldn’t bring crampons, myself.
It costs both for a room and for food. Normally you eat the evening meal where you are sleeping, but you don’t have to. I’ve never had free bed for buying dinner on any of my 6 trips to Nepal.
Nice video clips about the trekking of three passes
Great article! Thanks you so much for compiling all of this information. I plan to do the hike this coming October/November. Two questions? How much of a detour is it to include Island Peak and Kala Patthar? Also, is it possible to hire a guide for Island Peak at the tea houses or Island Peak base camp? I am looking to do the trek independently but think I should probably have a guide for the summit. Thanks and happy travels!
Though I’ve never done it, I believe you CAN hire a guide for Island Peak of the teahouses. Or they may take a commission to find a group for you to join.
Not sure about Kala Patthar. I assume it’s the same story.
Hi
Where is the best place to buy a ticket to lukla? I arrive Tuesday afternoon but wish to get my permit and fly wed afternoon to lukla…will this be possible do you think?
Thank you, great web page
There are travel agencies everywhere in Thamel selling Lukla flights. You can’t miss them.
Flights are early morning, however, so you’ll have to pack quickly for the trek.
Buy it online, offseason it is the cheapest way… Check Tara Air… Paid $167 vs. $179 (from agent) one way to Lukla.
Also, you don’t need any permits from Kathmandu…. The TIMS card isn’t valid anymore in the Solukhumbu. Instead you need to buy a trekking permit in Lukla (NPR 2,000), plus the Sagarmatha N.P. Permit that you can get in Monjo (NPR 3,390). Be careful, don’t buy the TIMS card because you will still need to buy the local permit in Lukla and ‘waste’ NPR 2,000…
Thanks richdrogpa. I added a note about the new trekking permit replacement for TIMS on our information page.
Ryan Van Duzer did some nice videos about this trek.
I did the Everest trek (from Lamosangu) in 1974 and 1981. Facilities were non existent / very basic but really, you don’t need much. At 67, I’d love to do it again and this website has me tempted. These days I’m a keen cyclist so I’m confident I could develop the fitness needed. Unfortunately, I’ll probably have to do it alone.
One thing I’m not clear on is whether you need to take your own sleeping bag as I would really like to keep my pack weight to under 7kg.
Staying in Tea Houses you could probably NOT take a sleeping bag.
Almost everyone does, however. For comfort. You might take a very light weight sleeping bad and cover yourself with the provided scratchy comforters.
Most of the tea house have you able to get blankets in the Everest area, but main season time is better to have your own sleeping bag.
Hey Lance,
From November to March Trekking in the Everest region, I would take your own sleeping bag. Any other month, you could be fine with just provided blankets at lodge. A sleeping bag is just more comfortable and it really gets colder at high elevations. In February, I easily got 14° to 25°F inside lodges overnight above 14,000ft. But I met lot of folks who didn’t take one, even in February. They were cold but survived;)
This year monsoon jump earlier in Nepal, since 4 day weather has been not good, just raining and cloudy.
Everest region is one the wonderful trekking in Nepal for an amazing panorama.
https://www.enjoynepaltreks.com/trek/everest-base-camp-trek/
here s another detail info for your Everest Three Passes trek.
https://basecampadventure.com/nepal/trekking/everest-three-pass-trek/
Thank you for info
Hi. Is it necessary to book lodges in advance? I did ABC trek four years ago and the lodges close to ABC (Deurali, Macahpuchre BC) and Tadapani were completely booked out. So maybe some places on this trek will be crowded as well and booking in advance is needed? I want to trek next April. Oh and one more question: is there snow in those passes in April?
Good question. Is there any way to book tea houses?
If so, that would be new to us.
You could try asking management at your first teahouse to telephone ahead to your next teahouses for booking. It’s likely they will have the phone numbers. There’s phone coverage all the way to Base Camp.
Hey Rick,
Great collection of useful information man. Btw lodge booking is actually possible now at least in the Everest Region. You can check it out here:
https://honeyguideapps.com/namche.d840302e4958.everest-region
However, just like some airbnb bookings, most booking are “Request to Book” rather than “Book Now”. (Disclosure: I am one of the cofounders of HoneyGuide that has built the lodge booking system for Everest.)
Also, I noticed that a few of the links in the above article are broken.
http://www.yetizone.com/Everest/Trek/Everest_Trek.shtml
http://ww1.nepal-trekking-holidays.com/
cheerios,
asis.
Thanks asis. I’ve taken care of the broken links. And added a link to your site.
Thanks Rick. Given that you have been to so many treks around the world, I would like to take your opinion about something. Let me know how I can reach you? Or you could just drop an empty email at asis.shrestha4122 [at] gmail dot com. Enjoy your Norway trek man. Looks fab.
It’s great information. Thanks for the info.
What about experiencing Nepal’s wonderful places? With himalayan treks, you will have an unforgettable experience while you are on your vacation. Enjoy trekking with some of the professional trekkers in the area. Unwind and relax with the perfect vacation you can experience. Hope this gives some insight.
Thanks for really valuable information, I am leaving in 3 days and planning to do 3 passes trek in 19-20 days starting in Phaplu.
Anybody need any information or service regarding to trekking or any package tour in Nepal please feel free to contact me.
Hi! Your article was really helpful while planning my trip for Three Passes trek. I have some valuable information about the trek. Would be great if you could add the links for the future hikers to find out:
About Jeep from Phaplu/Salleri to Kathmandu – https://nomadjoseph.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-jeep-to-phaplu-or-salleri/
About mobile internet and Wi-fi situation along the way – https://nomadjoseph.com/staying-online-on-everest-basecamp-trek/
Everything you need to know about permits and fees for hiking in Sagarmatha Nationalk Park – https://nomadjoseph.com/sagarmatha-national-park-permit-fees/
Thanks a lot!
Thanks for the information, Joseph.
Did anyone do the three passes trek these last weeks? (March 2019). I heard due to the heavy winter the passes are blocked.
yes now is open 3 passes, our guide Nabara already did and back to Lukla today, and many other groups are leading now for the 3 passes trek, but you need mini-crampons.
Thank you!
I am Rollo Simth from Canada just return from Everest 3 passes Trek.
Yes Everest 3 passes Trek is open but at Lungdhen [4380m] Lodge was not open , We were lucky our Guide Sonam Sherpa got one big dome Tent (Tent for 4 people – we were 7 but nice and worm).
We advice – Good if you take one Tent and some rope too.
Thanks! I’m trekking solo though. Right now I hear Renjo and Cho la pass is blocked. Hopefully it will clear up soon.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Trekking is adventurous, it may end your life. It is important to make a plan after reviewing and collecting information from various authorized sites and experienced person. Great job, really appreciable work. http://mytrip2nepal.com/everest-basecamp-trek.html
Everest base camp trek as well as Everest high pass trek its better to have guide.
there are lots of treks need guide and few not.
Nepal with different trekking & Hiking
Nepal is a beautiful country in Nepal. It is a landlocked country in Asia. There are many mountains ranges in Nepal. Many trekking area have different trekking options. Everest regions have many trekking. They are Everest base camp trek as well as Everest high pass trek. Everest view trek as well as renjo la pass trek is stunning trek. Gokyo Everest base camp trek as well as Gokyo valley trek has opportunities to see lake and rivers in high elevations. Everest base camp helicopter tour is one day tour to see Everest base camp. Everest base camp trek in helicopter is trek on the way up and return back on helicopter. We have Everest base camp luxury trek as well as Everest luxury trek for people who like luxury trek.
Everest base camp trek in January as well as Everest base camp trek in February is trek with stunning view. Everest base camp trek in March as well as Everest base camp trek in April are loved for clear day and blue sky. Everest base camp trek in May is chance to see climbing groups and tent in base camp. Everest base camp trek in august as well as Everest base camp trek in September are the beginning of another big season. It is stunning view as well as nice weather. Everest base camp trek in October as well as Everest base camp trek in November have many tourist for trek. Everest base camp trek in December is the end months for ebc trek.
Annapurna region is also the best trekking area. Annapurna base camp trek is also known as Annapurna sanctuary trek. Ghorepani poon hill as well as mardi himal trek are short trek in this region. Annapurna circuit as well as Annapurna base camp trek with ghorepani is long and wonderful trek. There are many nice treks in Langtang region. Langtang valley trek as well as tamang heritage trek is short trek. Langtang gosainkunda and helambu trek are one of the pilgrimage area trek. Gosinkunda pass trek is also a pilgrimage trek. Helambu trek as well as chisapani nagarkot trek is short and sweet trek.
There are lots of trek in restricted area of Nepal. Upper mustang trek as well as Manaslu is one of them. We have kanchanjunga base camp trek also to experience tenting trek. We also have lower Dolpa trek as well as upper Dolpa trekking for tenting. We have 12 days Everest trek as well as 13 days ebc trek in Everest. we have 14 days everest base camp trek as well as 15 days Everest base camp trek.
Besides that we have Base camp helicopter tour in Annapurna. Magic Himalaya Treks have lots of tour as well as trek. Visit Nepal and support us for Visit Nepal 2020.
http://www.magichimalayatreks.com/mt-everest-helicopter-charter-flight-tour-to-base-camp/
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Hi Rick,
Your blog and the comments are very helpful. I am planning to do the 3 high passes with EBC and Island Peak climb at end. Do you suggest clockwise trip and from Namche Bazar back to Chukyung to do Island Peak?
Thanks again.
Sorry, I meant anticlockwise.
Thanks for sharing this great article. Travelers will get enough information about Everest region.
I am really happy to say it’s an interesting post to read.
I learn new information from your article. Great job. Keep it up!!
Everest Three Pass Trek
TIMS Card is no longer valid if you fly direct to Lukla from Kathmandu.
Sagarmatha National Park Permit will cost around Rs 3000 plus an additional tax of 13% to this amount = 3390 per person
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
Local government of Khumbu directly collect NPR 2000 Per Person from each foreigners. Please note that this permits cannot be obtained in Kathmandu. First if you are flying through Lukla you can obtain this is Lukla.
[[Whereas if you trek from Jiri then it requires TIMS Card
-TIMS card that are issued- one for an Independent trekker and one for an organized trekker.
Cost
TIMS Card for Independent Trekker
Color- Green
Cost- Rs 2000 Per Person
Photos – 2
Collected by- Self
TIMS Card for Organized Trekker
Color- Blue
Cost- Rs 1000 Per Person
Photos – 1
Collected by – Local Trekking Agency
** In addition it also requires Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit which cost around Rs 2000 per person]]
Hello, any news on the trek for the current spring hiking season? It seems like the weather is still pretty unsettled. Talked to a guy yesterday, whose brother is a guide, and his brother just came back from trying to reach EBC. Said he couldn’t go above 5,000 meters due to snow. We are in pokhara currently and will be ready to start the trek a week from now but don’t know when we should go.
Good luck, Ryan.
The longer you wait for EBC, the better. On the other hand, restrictions may be put in place while you are there.
Consider flying home instead.
Thanks Rick, yes trekking permits are cancelled now and the airports all all closed until at least April 1. Things are changing fast. Currently looking at some other treks outside of the restricted areas.
This Three High Pass Trek in the lap of Himalayas is a complete trekking trail that you do not need another trek to reach other attractions. In other words, Everest Three High Pass Trekking is Everest Circuit Trek covering, Thame, Renjo La Pass, Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp, Kalapatthar, Kongloma Pass, Chukung Valley, Tengboche Monastery, Namche and world-known Lukla Airport.
https://www.trekkingtrail.com/everest-three-high-pass-trek
What else you need: One best Everest Three High Pass is Enough
Great article for travellers.Very informative and thanks for the time to highlight beauty of Nepal.
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Very nice post! Thank you very much for sharing this post.This is very helpful for the travelers who are planning a trip to here.
Wow, what an amazing article to read through, i am so jealous with all these amazing pictures as i have seen on your post, well done and can’t wait to travel back to the mountain soon on post covid-19. Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek (5-6 Days)
A very informative article related to Everest Three Pass Trek. Thank you for such a great article.
Orbit Alpine Adventure is leading trekking company at Nepal organizing trekking, Tour, climbing and many more outdoor activity. Please fell free to contact us. https://www.orbitalpineadventure.com/everest-base-camp-trek, https://www.orbitalpineadventure.com/everest-base-camp-helicopter-tour, https://www.orbitalpineadventure.com/everest-base-camp-trek-return-back-by-helicopter
Informative. Thanks for sharing. If anyone need more info about this trip this might be helpful as well. https://www.greenvalleynepaltreks.com/everest-three-high-passes-trek.html
Very beautiful post. Thanks for sharing all this with us.
Everest Base Camp Trek 10 Days
Thanks For The Articles Guys
Thank you for excellent article. https://www.orbitalpineadventure.com/everest-base-camp-helicopter-tour, https://www.orbitalpineadventure.com/everest-base-camp-trek-return-back-by-helicopter
Wow, what a blog!
Nice! Amazing trekking places that you shared with us. I read your blog & all information of trek you covered here its too good, I never read this kind of blog before. I personally recommend to read this blog to all traveler & my friends. Thanks You!
beautiful trek,
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Great Article Thank you so much for sharing.
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True information. Nice Article.
True Information. Nice Article.
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Very informative article!
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Great blog! Yes, to anyone seeking the ultimate adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on the Everest Base Camp 3 Passes Trek. Be prepared for a transformative journey that will test your resilience, reward your determination, and leave you with a sense of accomplishment that words cannot fully express.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful informative blog