Three Passes and Everest Base Camp 20 days
Best: Autumn / Spring
Next departure: Oct 17 - Nov 5, 2026 · 10 spots left
Three Passes & Everest Base Camp Trek
INR 120,000
Cross three high passes in the Everest region.
A very strenuous Everest adventure combining Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La with Everest Base Camp, Gokyo and remote Himalayan valleys.
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- 4.9/5 rating
- 15+ years
- 15,000+ trekkers
Next departure Oct 17 — 10 spots left
“I had an incredible experience with Himalayan Wonders on my Everest Base Camp trek. From start to finish, everything was handled professionally and with great attention to detail.”
Ashish Thakral
Trekking Facts
- Trek Name
- Everest Three Passes & Base Camp Trek
- Best Season
- Autumn & Spring
- Transportation
- Domestic flight / tourist vehicle
- Accommodation
- Tea house
- Grade
- Very Strenuous
- Highest Point
- 5,535m approx.
- Duration
- 20 Days
- Group Size
- Min 1 to Max 10
- Culture
- Sherpa
- Himalayan Sights
- Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam
- Attraction
- Renjo La, Cho La, Kongma La, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo
Three Passes and Everest Base Camp Itinerary
Day 1
Kathmandu: Arrival Day
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital and cultural hub of Nepal! We’ll be waiting with a warm greeting and easy transfer to your hotel. Plan on an evening briefing on last-minute specifics about your trek and an early lights-out: you have a big day ahead.
Day 2
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight and Phakding
After a short morning flight to Lukla, you'll be introduced to your guide and porter. Kick off your trek with an easy walk through Chaurikharka village and descent towards Dudhkoshi Ghat (2,530m/8,300ft). The trail follows the bank of the Dudhkoshi River until Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft), where we will be staying for the night to acclimatize. Enjoy your free time in Phakding, a popular stopping point. Lukla Flights are departing and returning to Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu due to ongoing upgrades at Kathmandu Airport. Its about a 4 hour drive to Ramechhap from Kathmandu so we will get started for the airport around 2 am. The return drive at the end of the trek is between 4 and 6 hours depending on traffic.
Day 3
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
We'll have breakfast in Phakding before gearing up for the trek to Namche Bazaar, the biggest sherpa village in Nepal. Our trail takes us first over the Dudhkoshi River via a long suspension bridge, and then through a beautiful pine forest to Monjo, about two hours away. Soon thereafter, we will approach the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park for a brief permit check and then descend to Dudh Kosi River (spotting Mani stones along the way!) en route to Jorsale. Lunch will be served here, and then it's uphill to Namche. Our path along the riverbank is flanked by two crossings, one of which is the Hillary Suspension Bridge. It's a tough climb up the hill to our resting place, but you'll be rewarded in Namche Bazaar with your first glimpse of Everest in its majesty.
Day 4
Namche Bazaar: Rest and Acclimatization Day
At this point, we take a well-deserved break! Today will be spent resting and allowing our bodies to become acclimatized to the lofty altitude. There's an optional 2 hour hike to Everest View Point, an uphill walk that will help speed acclimatization. Otherwise, spend the day exploring Namche Bazaar. Check out the Sherpa museum for an overview of the Sherpa culture and history of mountaineering. On Saturdays, the Hatt Bazaar is open for trading and an intimate look at the locals' marketplace. It is part of the larger Namche Bazaar, a shopping hub filled with all manner of trekking and mountaineering clothing and equipment.
Day 5
Namche Bazaar to Debouche/Melingo
Breakfast in Namche Bazaar fuels us for another day of trekking towards Everest Base Camp today! Breathtaking views of the Himalayas - Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde - are some of the highlights not to be missed. Our destination, Phortse, is known as one of the most beautiful places in the Everest region. Its views, which include Ama Dablam, are legendary.
Day 6
Debouche/Melingo to Dingboche
The trail today parallels the canyon of the raging Imja Khol River with its glacial blue waters. It's a gradual climb up to the village of Pangboche, the biggest settlement of Sherpas in the region. Enjoy a great opportunity to observe a typical Sherpa village and have lunch with the locals! The intrepid can brave a brief hike to the Pangboche monastery, one of the oldest in the area. Our afternoon trek will be a difficult one, as the landscape gives way to dry, deserted mountains and we hike towards Dingboche. Depending on trail conditions and tea house availability we may take the route on the other side of the river through Phortse. This trail diverges after Namche on Day 5 and basically parallels the trail to Debouche but on the opposite side of the river. The two trails merge back together in Pangboche.
Day 7
Dingboche: Rest and Aclimitazation Day
This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure! Savor a full day of exploring Dingboche and the surrounding valleys of Chhukung and Imja, the latter of which links with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park. Taking an optional trek to the valleys will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You'll need your rest for the penultimate day of ascent tomorrow.
Day 8
Dingboche to Chhukung
Today is a short days trek up the valley to the small village of Chukhung which lies near the base of Island Peak which is a popular trekking peak for first time climbers. You can do a short day hike from your tea house after lunch up the beautiful valley.
Day 9
Chhukung to Kongma La - Lobuche
The Kongma La pass is the first real challenge of the Three Passes and it's a steep climb up to the top from Chukhung. Once on top you will have fantastic views of Cholatse, Pokalde, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu and Ama Dablam. On the decent you will cross the Khumbu Glacier before you reach Lobuche where you will spend the night.
Day 10
Lobuche to EBC - Gorakshep
This is it! Our big day kicks off with an initial, relatively easy trek from Lobuche to Gorekshep. The subsequent, straight trail to Everest Base Camp is harder, involving rocky dunes and moraine, formed accumulation of unconsolidated glacial debris. On the way to our destination, we'll approach the famed Khumbu Glacier and icefall, located on the slopes of Everest. At the Base Camp, our goal, you'll have the chance (during the spring climbing season) to meet climbers attempting to scale the mountain’s summit. Break out your cameras for unbelievable views of breathtaking beauty. As the afternoon sun starts to wane, we'll head back to Gorekshep for some much-needed rest and relaxation after a grueling and busy day.
Day 11
Gorakshep to Kalapathar - Dzongla
We'll wake before dawn today to trek towards Kalapathar (which means "black rock") for a fiery, glorious sunrise over Mt. Everest. The day's first light will illuminate your spectacular view of Nuptse Nup, Changtse and Lhotse.This may be, of the whole journey, your most opportune moment to snap amazing pictures of Everest and its neighboring peaks. Afterwards, it's back to Gorekshep for breakfast and onwards to Dzongla.
Day 12
Dzongla to Cho La - Thaknak
This could be the most challenging day of the trek as you go over the pass. Fortunately, having already visited Everest Base Camp you should be getting used to trekking at the high altitude and feeling stronger. If the weather is bad crossing the pass can be difficult. Crampons are not normally used but microspikes can be helpful if the weather is at all bad. It's a tough climb to the top but the amazing views more than make up for it.
Day 13
Thaknak to Gokyo
We continue down into the Gokyo Valley and cross the Ngozumpa glacier the longer glacier in this part of the Himalayas and an impressive sight. We should reach Gokyo by lunch. After lunch you should have time to walk up to one of the lakes in the valley and get some great views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 14
Gokyo to Gokyo Ri
Today is a rest day in Gokyo and a chance to further acclimatize. Its also an opportunity to take a day hike and climb Gokyo Ri which offers one of the best views of Mount Everest in the entire region. The small village of Gokyo lies on the shores of Dudh Pokhari (the third lake) and views of the lake with a backdrop of mount Pharilapche (6017 m / 19741 ft) rising above it have almost become iconic. Gokyo is famous for its six lakes and the day affords the chance to visit these as well.
Day 15
Gokyo to Renjo La - Lungden
This is another challenging day as you go over Renjo La the last of the Three Passes and descend to Lungden in the Thame Valley. Renjo La is the pass connecting the Thame and Gokyo Valleys. It's a tough days hiking but the views of Cho Oyu (8,201m), Makalu (8,463m), Lhotse (8,516 m) and Everest (8,850m) are well worth it.
Day 16
Lungden to Thame
The Thame Valley does not see a lot of trekkers so it's a good escape and the small villages are more traditional. A lot of Climbing Sherpas have made their home in the traditional village of Thame. It's a fairly easy walk that is mostly downhill today.
Day 17
Thame to Namche Bazaar
We'll pass through a check post today before arriving at the world's loftiest hydroelectric power station, which provides electricity for most of the upper Khumbu region. We'll pass gompas, prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens en route to Namche Bazaar, where we'll again stop for an overnight rest.
Day 18
Namche to Phakding and Lukla
After breakfast, we trek toward the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then pass through several local villages. Our arrival in Lukla brings an evening in our last Tea House and, traditionally, a party with your trekking crew: you made it! Thanks to great teamwork and perseverance, you've accomplished a physical feat of which others only dream. This is your last night on the mountain, which can be bittersweet.
Day 19
Lukla to Kathmandu
In the morning, you'll hop a brief flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (See Note), where your journey both began and ends. You'll transfer to your hotel upon landing for some much-needed solo rest and reflection after your trek conquering the Himalayas. We'll reunite in the evening for a farewell dinner at one of the best Nepalese restaurants in town, where we'll be eager to hear your feedback on the trip. Lukla Flights are departing and returning to Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu due to ongoing upgrades at Kathmandu Airport. Its about a 4 to 6 hour drive from Ramechhap back to Kathmandu depending on traffic.
Day 20
Kathmandu: Departure Day
It's your last day in Nepal! Grab some breakfast, and then take in some last-minute shopping in Kathmandu. We'll make sure you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport with plenty time before your flight home. At this time, we'll say our goodbyes and bid you farewell, armed with warm memories and gorgeous photos to show your loved ones. END OF OUR SERVICES. All distances and time estimates are approximate.
Three Passes and Everest Base Camp Gallery
What's Included
- 20 day adventure, 18 of which include 3 meals a day
- 2 nights of accommodation in Kathmandu, breakfast included
- Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Ramecchap and Lukla *
- Accommodation while trekking
- Airport transfers
- Everest trekking permit and TIMS (traveler security) Card
- Fully-licensed, English-speaking guide
- Porter service
- Local and government taxes
- First aid kit
- Trip completion certificate
- Farewell dinner
- 1 Himalayan wonders T-shirt
Why Base Camp Hikes
15+ Years in the Himalayas
Decades of experience planning and operating treks across Nepal and the Everest region.
Experienced Sherpa Guides
Trek with experienced local guides who know the Everest trail, altitude, weather and mountain conditions.
Real Humans on WhatsApp
Speak directly with our team before, during and after your trek — without call-centre handoffs.
Complete Trek Logistics
Transfers, permits, accommodation, flights and trekking arrangements are coordinated by one team.
Trusted & Officially Registered in Nepal
Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) · TAAN · Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) · verify our TAAN membership →
Meet Your Trek Experts
Real people in Kathmandu and India who plan your trip and answer your questions - not a call centre.
Nishes Thapa
Operations Director
Oversees operations in Nepal with over 15 years of trekking experience in the Himalayas. Works directly with our guides and porters and personally organizes every trek, hand-picking the best guides in the region.
Anand Dongre
Adventure Expert, India Office
Runs our India office operations out of Nagpur. Has trekked in Nepal himself several times and helps coordinate with guests, bringing excellent knowledge of the different treks on offer.
What Travelers Say
Traveler experiences with our parent company, Himalayan Wonders · Source: Tripadvisor
★★★★★
“Went for the EBC trek with Himalayan Wonders a few weeks ago, and it was truly a wonderful experience thanks to their team. Our guide, Mr. Garba Rai, was incredibly helpful, fun, and supportive throughout the journey.”
Aparna Nair Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Our Everest Base Camp guide (Pasang Dawa) made this journey even more unforgettable. He took great care of us throughout the trek, always making sure we were safe, comfortable, and motivated.”
Charan Teja Reddy Chinthakuntla Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Had a wonderful time with Bhanu Ji. Superb trek lead, fantastic experience, perfect weather prediction, and great knowledge on all peaks. Thanks!”
Vivek Iyer Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Ram Prasad Bhattarai was our trek leader, and he was exceptional in every way. He provided clear briefings and well-planned day-by-day schedules, which kept everything organized and stress-free, and he always made sure the whole group stayed safe.”
Vajeeram Bhoopalan Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“We went to Everest Base Camp through Himalayan Wonders. One of the greatest experiences of my life was made so much enjoyable by this team! Garba Rai, my guide, was amazing throughout - every day he would take care of my little needs like I was his family…”
Guru Kulkarni Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“I had an incredible experience with Himalayan Wonders on my Everest Base Camp trek. From start to finish, everything was handled professionally and with great attention to detail.”
Ashish Thakral Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Our recent Annapurna Circuit Trek done with the wonderful support of Himalayan Wonders has been a great experience. They took utmost care of our group of 5 friends from Kathmandu airport up to the completion of the trek.”
Vaijayanti Ingawale Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“Good humble guides, good support, good back up at remote areas, good team and flexible with group travel. Travelled with my son.”
Praveen Kumar Manchi Laxminarayana Read this review on TripAdvisor →
★★★★★
“6 of us went for EBC trek in Oct first week 2024. Lots of uncertainty due to floods and weather conditions - Himalayan Wonders took care of the flights, choppers, anything, in a very short notice.”
Krishna Kumar Lakshmi Prakash Read this review on TripAdvisor →
From the Trail
From the Trail: Guest Videos
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Three Passes and Everest Base Camp Questions
How challenging is the Three Passes & Everest Base Camp for a typical trekker?
The Three Passes & Everest Base Camp is graded Very Strenuous - this sits at the harder end of what we offer - sustained climbing, serious altitude, and long days that are best attempted with real trekking experience behind you.
When is the best season to experience the Three Passes & Everest Base Camp?
Autumn and Spring are when most people go, and for good reason - skies are clearest, trails are driest, and the mountain views the trek is built around actually show up.
How high does the Three Passes & Everest Base Camp take you?
The Three Passes & Everest Base Camp tops out at 5,535m. The itinerary is paced to get you there gradually rather than quickly, which is the difference between a good trip and a miserable one at that height.
What local culture and communities will you experience on the Three Passes & Everest Base Camp?
Sherpa culture shapes everything about this trek, from the monasteries along the trail to the families running the tea houses you'll sleep in each night.
Which Himalayan peaks can you expect to see along the Three Passes & Everest Base Camp?
Everest, lhotse, makalu, cho oyu, ama dablam frame the route for much of the way, giving you a reason to keep looking up even when the trail underfoot is demanding your attention.
Gear You'll Need
Be prepared for changing Himalayan conditions. Here are the essential items we recommend bringing for your trek.
Trekking Boots
Good ankle support and grip for rocky, uneven trails.
Down Jacket
Warmth for cold mornings, evenings and high-altitude nights.
Sleeping Bag
Rated for sub-zero temperatures at teahouse altitudes.
Trekking Poles
Take pressure off your knees on long descents.
Backpack
A daypack for essentials you'll want on the trail.
Headlamp
For pre-dawn starts and teahouses without steady power.
Water Bottle
Reusable and insulated, so it won't freeze overnight.
Sunglasses
UV protection against strong high-altitude glare.
Trek Preparation Guide
Get Trek-Ready
- Build fitness: Walk, hike, or climb stairs regularly before your trek.
- Train for altitude: Include longer walks with gradual elevation gain.
- Pack smart: Carry only essential clothing, gear, medicines, and personal items.
- Break in boots: Wear your trekking shoes before the trip.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and limit alcohol before and during the trek.
- Sleep well: Arrive rested and ready for the trail.
- Prepare for weather: Himalayan conditions can change quickly, so carry suitable layers.
- Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with trekking and emergency evacuation coverage is recommended.
Useful Trekking Resources
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