If you want a big challenge in the Himalayas, the Everest Three Pass Trek is for you. I had heard that it’s one of the toughest treks in Nepal. People said it’s long, high, and full of ups and downs. They were right. But they forgot to tell me one thing, it’s also one of the most beautiful treks I’ve ever done.
The Everest Three Pass Trek takes you across three high mountain passes: Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m). You also visit popular spots like Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Kala Patthar. The full trek can take 17 to 21 days, depending on your pace. I finished mine in 19 days, and every day felt like a new story.
This trek is not just long—it’s also very high. That’s why fewer people do it. While over 40,000 people trek to Everest Base Camp each year, only about 5,000 try the full Three Passes route. That means the trails are quiet, and you often walk in peace. I loved that part. Some days, I didn’t see another person for hours.
I started the trek from Lukla, a small mountain town with a short runway. The flight there was scary but exciting. From there, I walked to Namche Bazaar, the main town in the Khumbu region. I rested there to get used to the altitude. Acclimatization is very important on this trek. If you go too fast, you can get sick. I saw some trekkers turn back because of headaches and nausea.
The first pass I crossed was Kongma La. It was steep and full of snow, but the views were worth it. I saw tall peaks all around me, including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse. After that, I reached Everest Base Camp. Standing there, near the ice and rock, was a dream come true. I took deep breaths and just looked at everything in silence.
The second pass, Cho La, was harder. It was icy, and we had to be careful not to slip. But we made it. After that, I reached Gokyo, a quiet village by a blue lake. I climbed Gokyo Ri early one morning and saw the sunrise over Everest. I will never forget that view.
The final pass, Renjo La, was cold and windy, but the trail was clear. From the top, I looked back at Gokyo and saw mountains lined up like a painting. My legs were tired, but my heart was full. I had crossed all three passes. I felt proud, happy, and thankful.
I stayed in small tea houses along the way. The food was simple—rice, soup, and tea—but warm and filling. The people were kind and helpful. Each night, I sat by the fire, talked with other trekkers, and looked at the stars.
So, is the Everest Three Pass Trek hard? Yes. But it’s also one of the most rewarding treks in the world. If you are fit, patient, and ready to face the cold and climb high, you can do it. The best time to go is March to May and September to November, when the weather is clear.
This trek gave me more than pictures. It gave me stories, strength, and peace. I went to walk in the mountains, but I found much more. If you ever get the chance, take it. The Everest Three Pass Trek will change you in the best way.
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