Everest High Pass Trek Cost: Permits, Guides, Porters, and Transport
Everest High Pass Trek Package Cost:
Everest Three Passes Trek package prices with Global Adventure Trekking starts from USD 1,299 per person for groups of 6 to 12, USD 1,696 for groups of 2 to 5, and USD 1,749 for solo trekkers. Every package includes your guide, accommodation, meals, permits, flights, sleeping bag, down jacket, and trek map; everything is covered from Kathmandu to Kathmandu for Nepal Trekking Permits 2026.
Three Pass Trek Permits:
Three mandatory permits are included in your package costs for the Everest Three Passes Trek: the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,000), the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (NPR 2,000), and the TIMS Card (NPR 2,000). You do not need to arrange or pay for these separately.
Porter on the Everest High Pass:
Porter services are not included in the standard package but are strongly recommended. A porter costs USD 300 for the full 19-day trek and can be shared between two trekkers. On long pass days, like Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, letting a porter carry your main bag makes a significant difference to your safety, energy, and enjoyment on the trail.
Transport During Nepal’s Three Passes Trekking in Nepal:
All ground transport is included from airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu and your round-trip flight between Kathmandu and Lukla (or Ramechhap during peak season). During spring and autumn, Lukla flights operate from Ramechhap Airport, approximately 5 to 6 hours by road from Kathmandu. The shared jeep transfer to Ramechhap is arranged and included in your package.
For a personalized quote based on your group size, dates, or any custom extensions, contact our trekking experts today!
2026/2027 Early Bird Offer: Everest High Pass Trek
Book the Everest High Pass Trek for 2026/2027 and secure your spot on this incredible Himalayan adventure. Lock in the best price and enjoy flexible cancellation, including free cancellation up to 60 days before your departure date.
Everest High Pass Trek Early Bird Booking Benefits:
- Discounted rates up to 10%
- Book 6 to 12 months in advance and get 10% off.
- Book 3 to 6 months in advance and get 5% off.
- Bonus spa and wellness hampers.
- Priority access to preferred departure dates.
- Flexible cancellations and trip upgrades.
Bookings are limited. Reserve your Everest High Pass Trek 2026/2027 slot now!
A Typical Day During the Everest High Pass Trek
A typical day on the Everest Three Passes trek follows a rhythm that your body quickly settles into. On regular trekking days, mornings begin around 6:30 AM with the smell of fresh tea and the sight of snow-capped peaks glowing in the early light outside your teahouse window. Breakfast is hearty and warming, like eggs, local bread, porridge, or Tibetan bread with honey, washed down with ginger tea or coffee, fuel for you before a long day on the trail.
Before you set off, your GAT guide will brief you on the day ahead, the route, estimated hours, altitude gain, and anything to watch out for on the trail. By around 8:00 AM, you are walking. The pace is deliberately slow and steady on the trail because your body at altitude performs best when you conserve energy and breathe rhythmically. Each regular trekking day covers between 6 and 9 hours of walking across terrain that shifts from lush river valleys and rhododendron forests in the lower sections to rocky moraine and icy ridgelines as you gain altitude.
Lunch is a mid-trail stop at a local teahouse, a welcome rest with a staple meal of Dal Bhat, noodle soup, or pasta to refuel before the afternoon push. You’ll typically reach your overnight teahouse by late afternoon, leaving time to explore the village, visit a local monastery, or simply sit outside with a cup of tea and take in the mountains around you.
Evenings are one of the best parts of the Everest High Pass Trek. The communal dining hall fills up with trekkers from around the world, all gathered around the warm wood-burning stove. Dinner is served early, usually by 7:00 PM, and the conversation flows naturally. After dinner, most trekkers are in bed by 9:00 PM. Sleep at altitude is your most important recovery tool, and an early night makes a real difference on the trail for the next day’s Three High Pass adventure.
Customized Your Everest High Pass Trek in Nepal
Our 19-day Everest High Pass Trek offers an immersive experience of the Everest region. This trek is meticulously crafted by our travel experts. However, we understand that each traveler has their unique preferences. To adhere to your needs and requirements, we offer a fully customizable Everest High Pass Trek. By customizing this trek, you can experience a seamless blend of Himalayan adventure and culture immersion at your desired pace, add acclimatization days, or include a trek extension to some of the most beautiful regions in the Everest region, including the following:
Trip Extension Alternatives
Island Peak Climbing:
Island Peak Climbing is a thrilling adventure that can be combined with the Everest High Pass Trek. This is an ideal exploration opportunity for trekkers seeking technical mountaineering experience. During this extension, you can enjoy breathtaking summit views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. View Island Peak Climbing.
Pikey Peak Base Camp Trek:
The Pikey Peak Base Camp Trek is a lower-region adventure that offers panoramic views of iconic mountains, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. During this trek, you can enjoy the thrills of trekking the rugged Himalayan terrain and also experience the rich culture, lush rhododendron forest trails, and ancient monasteries of the region. View Pikey Peak Base Camp Trek.
Ama Dablam Base Camp:
The Ama Dablam Base Camp trek is a less-frequented route that introduces you to the true serenity of the Himalayas. This picturesque trek leads you to the base of one of the most stunning mountains and offers views of the Everest landscapes, cultural immersion in Sherpa villages, and an intimate experience of the Himalayan mountaineering life. View Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek.
Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling Valley Trek:
The Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling Valley Trek is a remote Himalayan journey into Nepal’s largest glacial lake. During this trek, you can enjoy the dramatic mountain views, Sherpa and Tamang culture, lush valleys, and the serene trails away from the conventional Everest crowds. View Tsho Rolpa and Rolwaling Valley Trek.
Whether you want to add extra acclimatization days, travel on a private departure on your own dates, adjust the pace for a more relaxed journey, upgrade your accommodation at lower-altitude lodges, or combine the Three Passes Trek with a peak climbing extension like Island Peak, our team can arrange it. There are no rigid rules on customization. If you have a specific goal, timeline, or physical consideration, tell us, and we will build the itinerary as per your travel style.
Everest Three Passes Trek Route: Full Circuit
The Everest High Pass Trek follows a counter-clockwise loop around the Everest massif in the Khumbu region of northeastern Nepal. The full circuit covers approximately 130 kilometers over 13 trekking days (19 days total), beginning and ending in Kathmandu via a scenic mountain flight to and from Lukla (2,840 m).
Stage 1: Approach (Days 2 to 3)
Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding-Namche Bazaar: The Lukla Flight Trek Nepal kicks off the trek. Two days of walking along the Dudh Koshi River through Sherpa villages and suspension bridges bring you to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the gateway to the Everest region.
Stage 2: Acclimatization & Climb (Days 4 to 8)
Namche Bazaar-Tengboche-Dingboche-Chhukung: Five days of gradual ascent through rhododendron forests, ancient monasteries, and alpine valleys. Two acclimatization days at Namche and Chhukung to prepare your body for the high passes ahead.
Stage 3: First Pass: Kongma La (Day 9)
Chhukung-Kongma La (5,535 m)-Lobuche (4,940 m): The hardest pass of the three. A pre-dawn headlamp start leads to a sunrise at the rocky summit of Kongma La, followed by a steep descent along the Khumbu Glacier to Lobuche.
Stage 4: Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar (Days 10 to 11)
Lobuche-Gorak Shep-EBC (5,364 m)-Kala Patthar (5,545 m) -Lobuche: The emotional heart of the trek. Stand at the foot of Everest at Base Camp, then wake before dawn to climb Kala Patthar for the closest sunrise view of the Everest summit on earth.
Stage 5: Second Pass: Cho La (Days 12 to 13)
Lobuche-Dzongla (4,830 m) -Cho La (5,420 m) - Gokyo (4,800 m): A short recovery day to Dzongla is followed by the most technical crossing of the trek with an icy glacier ascent over Cho La Pass, where crampons may be needed, descending to the serene Gokyo Lakes.
Stage 5b: Gokyo Rest Day (Day 14)
Gokyo-Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) -Gokyo: A pre-dawn climb to Gokyo Ri delivers one of the finest panoramas in the Himalayas, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu above the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The rest of the day is free to explore the Gokyo Lakes.
Stage 6: Third Pass: Renjo La (Day 15)
Gokyo-Renjo La (5,360 m)-Marlung (4,210 m): The most scenic pass of the three. From the summit of Renjo La, Everest, Cho Oyu, and the Gokyo Lakes all appear in one jaw-dropping panorama before a long descent into the remote Thame Valley.
Stage 7: Return (Days 16 to 18)
Marlung-Namche Bazaar-Lukla-Kathmandu: Two final trekking days descend through Thame village and along the Dudh Koshi back to Lukla, completing the full loop. An early morning flight on Day 18 returns you to Kathmandu.
Everest Three Passes Trek: Permits and Regulations (2026 and 2027)
Permit Fee Updates
You require three mandatory permits for the Everest Three Passes Trek. The passes are checked at Monjo, at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park.
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3000 (approx. USD 25) per person for foreign nationals.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit: NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 17) per person
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Trekkers are required to carry their TIMS card before beginning their Everest Base Camp Trek. The permit costs NRS 2000 per person.
Note: All three permit costs are fully included in your GAT Everest Three Passes Trek package. You do not need to arrange or pay for any permits separately. Our Global Adventure Trekking team handles everything before your trek begins.
Everest High Pass Trek: New Trail Regulations 2026 and 2027
-
Mandatory Guide Requirement
The Nepal government has imposed a new rule, since 2023, requiring all foreign trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. The rule is enforced to ensure the safety of the trekkers and the conservation of the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Himalayan destinations along the three high passes, including the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Valley.
Drone usages are permitted in the Everest region but require multiple permits from the concerned authorities. You will need to secure permits from government bodies, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation. To avoid the hassle of queuing in government offices, contact our travel experts, and we will secure the necessary permits for you.
When to Go on the Everest Three Passes Trek in 2026 and 2027?
The best time for the Everest Three Passes Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are the times when the weather is stable with ideal conditions to take on the challenging ascents and descents.
The post-monsoon month of autumn gives you clear visibility with unobstructed views of the mountains. While the temperatures in lower-altitude regions are manageable, you will face sub-zero conditions in the higher elevations; pack your gear accordingly.
In spring, you will trek in the subtropical regions surrounded by lush rhododendron and wildflower blossoms. The temperatures are warmer, but higher regions like Kongma La Pass can still have freezing conditions. Spring brings occasional afternoon showers, but it is unlikely to disrupt your plans.
Everest Three High Passes Seasonal Overview
| Season |
Weather Conditions |
|
Monsoon (June to August)
|
- Heavy rainfall with unpredictable weather conditions
- Slippery trails are prone to injuries
- Flight cancellations or delays
- Best to avoid
|
|
Autumn (September to November)
|
- Peak trekking season
- Stable weather and clear visibility
- Nights are cold. High-altitude regions can reach temperatures below freezing
|
|
Winter (December to February)
|
- Inaccessible trails in the higher elevation zones due to excessive snow.
- Extremely cold temperatures
- Recommended only to seasoned trekkers with proper equipment and gear.
|
|
Spring (March to May)
|
- Good conditions for trekking
- Mild temperatures in the lower regions. Expect temperatures to fluctuate between 5°C and 20°C in the lower regions
- High-altitude regions can be freezing
|
Everest High Pass Trek Accommodation: Himalayan Teahouse Trekking
Comfortable nights make for stronger trekking days, and we take accommodation seriously on the Himalayan Teahouse Trekking to Everest Three Passes Trek. In Kathmandu, you will stay in a clean, well-located 3-star hotel in Thamel, with hot water, Wi-Fi, and everything you need to rest up before and after the trek.
Out on the trail, accommodation shifts with the altitude. In lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, you will find well-established lodges with attached bathrooms, hot showers, and reliable facilities. Higher up at Chhukung, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Gokyo, and Marlung teahouses are simpler but full of warmth. The hospitality of Sherpa hosts at high altitude is one of the most memorable parts of any Khumbu trek.
Extra Facilities on the Trail
Electricity and Charging: Most teahouses run on solar power. Device charging is available at most stops for an extra NPR 300 to 600 per device. We suggest you carry a power bank for backup on busier days.
Wi-Fi and Mobile Network: Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses for a small fee. Connectivity is decent in Namche Bazaar, but it becomes slow above Dingboche. Download your offline maps, podcasts, and reading before heading higher.
Heated Dining Halls: Every teahouse has a communal dining room warmed by a wood-burning stove. The natural gathering point each evening for trekkers to share stories, eat well, and wind down after a long day on the trail.
Food and Drinking Water on the Everest Three Passes Trek
You will eat well on this Three Passes trek. Teahouses across the Khumbu region serve simple, nourishing meals throughout the day, the Nepali staple of Dal Bhat being the most popular choice among trekkers and guides alike, and for good reason. It is filling, hot, and comes with free refills.
In lower villages like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, menus get more varied; expect Tibetan bread, momo, noodles, potatoes, porridge, and even pizza, pasta, and pancakes at the better-stocked teahouses. Higher up, menus simplify, but meals remain hot and satisfying.
For drinking water, teahouses along the route sell boiled water that you can refill into your own bottle. To help protect the pristine environment of Sagarmatha National Park, we strongly encourage carrying a reusable bottle and water purification tablets rather than buying single-use plastic bottles at every stop.
Your Everest Three Passes Trek Guide: Born in Khumbu, Certified, Experienced
The Everest Three Passes Trek is a challenging high-altitude circuit trek that crosses three passes above 5300 m and traverses glaciated terrain to a height of 5545 m at Kala Patthar. Who guides you through this is hugely important. All three high-pass treks at Global Adventure Trekking are accompanied by a government-certified, English-speaking Sherpa guide who has walked this very route numerous times and knows every trail, teahouse, and weather pattern along the way.
Our Sherpa guides are not just certified professionals; they are Khumbu locals who grew up in the shadow of these mountains. They know when to push, when to rest, and when the weather on Cho La or Renjo La demands a change of plan. The most demanding sections of the trek are the pre-dawn headlamp ascent of Kongma La, the icy glacier crossing of Cho La, and the long exposed descent from Renjo La. Your guide's experience is what keeps you safe, on route, and on pace.
The Everest Three Passes Trek GAT Guide:
- Government-licensed by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) with a valid trekking guide.
- Your guide is Wilderness First Aid trained and provided with a pulse oximeter to monitor your blood oxygen levels throughout the trek.
- Fluent in English and conversational in several other languages
- A wealth of information on Sherpa culture, local history, Himalayan flora and fauna, and the geography of the Khumbu region
- Trained to recognize early warning signs of altitude sickness (AMS), Khumbu cough, and other high-altitude health issues and to react quickly when necessary.
Your Sherpa guide is with you every step of the way, from your first morning in Kathmandu to your last descent into Lukla, guiding you along the route, overseeing the teahouse logistics, briefing you on the day ahead each morning, and ensuring you experience the Everest Three Passes Trek safely, confidently, and at the right pace for your body.
Why Book the Everest Three Pass Trek with Global Adventure Trekking?
Global Adventure Trekking takes pride in being your trusted Nepal travel partner. We ensure a safe, well-paced journey with expert guides for the Everest Three Pass Trek. We have 30 years of experience in the Nepali trekking industry. Our in-depth geographical, cultural, and linguistic expertise allows us to deliver extra.
While booking with Global Adventure Trekking, be assured of:
- Seasoned and professional guides.
- Guides and support staff with fluency in English and conversational skills in several other languages.
- Good knowledge of local languages.
- Friendly, helpful, and proper services throughout the trekking itinerary.
- Our professional guides and staff at Global Adventure Trekking are dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for every trekker.
- Free pre-trek consultation from expert guides
- Flexible booking dates.
- Special offers
- Affordable prices
- Friendly services
Furthermore, we focus on communal sustainability and economic development of the rural trekking routes. We provide 5% of our total income toward the welfare of these rural communities.
Everest High Pass Trek Difficulty: Is This Trek Right for You?
The Everest High Pass Trek is rated Strenuous, the greatest difficulty grade on our scale. This is not a beginner trek. Crossing three passes above 5,300 m, trekking 7 to 9 hours per day for up to 18 days, and navigating glaciated terrain on Cho La Pass all demand a strong fitness base, high-altitude experience, and genuine mental resilience.
- Daily Distance: 10 to 18 km on regular days, up to 14 km on pass days. You need to be comfortable hiking all day, back-to-back.
- Daily Duration: 7 to 9 hours of walking, including ascents and descents, which build endurance with long training hikes before departure.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,545 m at Kala Patthar; acclimatization matters more than raw fitness at this elevation.
- Pass Terrain: Rocky, steep, and icy, Cho La Pass requires crampons, so proper footwear and trekking poles are essential.
- Trek Length: 19 days total, with 2 dedicated acclimatization days; you must be comfortable with multi-week physical activity.
Who is this trek suitable for?
- Trekkers who have completed at least one previous multi-day high-altitude trek (such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, or Manaslu Circuit Trek)
- Trekkers who can walk 6 hours or more than that with a daypack on consecutive days without major fatigue
- Trekkers with no serious respiratory, cardiovascular, or joint conditions (consult your doctor if unsure)
- Trekkers who are comfortable with basic navigation on rocky and snowy terrain
Read our detailed blog on How Difficult Is the Everest High Pass Trek before booking, or contact our expert team for a free pre-trek consultation.
If you're not sure yet. Talk to our team via WhatsApp +977 9841527688.
Physical Fitness and Training Guide: Nepal Three High Passes Trek
The Nepal Three High Passes Trek is one of the most physically demanding treks in the Himalayas. Your fitness level will directly affect your safety and enjoyment, given 19 days of trekking, three passes above 5,300 m, and daily walking hours of 7 to 9 hours. We strongly recommend starting a structured training program at least 3 to 6 months before your departure date.
Fitness Requirements:
To comfortably complete the Everest Three Passes Trek, you should be able to do the following:
- Several days of walking 6 to 8 hours a day with a daypack (5 to 7 kg) in a row and not feeling too tired
- Sustain a steady uphill pace for 3 to 4 hours at a time
- Recover quickly after strenuous hiking days with adequate rest
- Maintain cardiovascular output at reduced oxygen levels
Recommended Everest High Pass Trek Training Programme (12 Weeks)
- Stage 1: Foundation (Weeks 1 to 4) 3 to 4 days per week of cardio (running, cycling, or swimming), 60 minutes per session. Add 2 or 3 hours of weekend hiking with a light pack to build trail legs.
- Stage 2: Build (Weeks 5 to 8) Increase to 4 or 5 days per week. Introduce stair climbing and incline treadmill sessions. Extend your weekend hikes to 5 or 6 hours and start carrying a 5 kg to 7 kg backpack.
- Stage 3: Peak (Weeks 9 to 11) Train 5 days per week. Do back-to-back weekend hikes: 6 hours on Saturday, 4 hours on Sunday. Add strength work: lunges, squats, and core exercises. Push pack weight up to 8 kg.
- Stage 4: Taper (Week 12) Pull back on intensity. Short hikes only. Prioritise rest, sleep, and good nutrition in the final week before your departure.
Altitude-Specific Training Tips
- If possible, do a shorter high-altitude trek (like Langtang or Annapurna Base Camp) in the months before the Three Passes trek
- Train in cold weather conditions to prepare your body for sub-zero temperatures at the passes
- Practice breathing exercises to improve lung capacity and oxygen efficiency
- Include yoga or stretching routines to improve flexibility and reduce injury risk on steep descents
- Consult a sports physician or physiotherapist if you have any pre-existing knee, back, or cardiovascular conditions
What to Expect on the Khumbu Three Passes Trek: Daily Physical Demands
On pass days of Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, expect 8 to 10 hours of trekking over steep, rocky, and sometimes icy terrain. These are the hardest days of the trek and require both physical endurance and strong mental determination. On regular trekking days, you will cover 10 to 18 km at an altitude between 3,440 m and 5,170 m.
Altitude Sickness on the EBC Three Passes Trek: Symptoms, Prevention and Evacuation
Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness, or AMS) is one of the most serious risks on the Everest Three Passes Trek. Trekking to altitudes of 5,545 m at Kala Patthar and crossing three passes above 5,360 m means your body is regularly exposed to oxygen levels significantly lower than at sea level. Understanding the symptoms, prevention strategies, and evacuation process is essential before you begin this strenuous Himalayan trek.
What is Altitude Sickness (AMS)?
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) occurs when you ascend too fast, and your body cannot adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels at high altitude. The Everest High Pass Trek’s altitude sickness risk is higher than on a standard Everest Base Camp trek because the route includes three consecutive high passes: Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m), with limited time to recover between them.
Common AMS Symptoms:
- Persistent headache that does not go away with rest or hydration
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Dizziness and fatigue beyond normal trekking tiredness
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) at high altitudes
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in hands, feet, or face
- Khumbu cough (a persistent dry cough caused by breathing in the cold)
Warning: If AMS symptoms progress to confusion, inability to walk straight, or a persistent dry cough with pink frothy sputum, these are signs of High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)—both life-threatening conditions requiring immediate descent and emergency evacuation.
How GAT Prevents Three Pass’s Altitude Sickness during the Trek
Our 19-day Everest High Pass Trek itinerary is carefully designed with two acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) and Chhukung (4,730 m) to give your body time to adapt in the best way. We follow the internationally recognized principle of 'climb high, sleep low' hiking to a higher elevation during the day and returning to a lower-altitude teahouse to rest and recover.
- Acclimatization Day 1 Namche Bazaar (Day 4): Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) and return to Namche (3,440 m)
- Acclimatization Day 2 Chhukung (Day 8): Optional hike to Chhukung Ri (5,040 m) and return to Chhukung (4,730 m)
- Gradual daily elevation gain was kept within safe limits wherever possible
- Guides trained in Wilderness First Aid and high-altitude medical response
- Pulse oximeters carried by guides to monitor blood oxygen levels throughout the trek
Altitude Sickness Prevention Tips for Trekkers
- Ascend slowly: never skip acclimatization days, even if you feel fine
- Stay well-hydrated: drink 3 to 4 litres of water per day during the trek
- Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
- Eat regular, carbohydrate-rich meals to maintain energy levels
- Consult your doctor about Diamox (Acetazolamide) before your trek (a commonly prescribed medication for AMS prevention)
- Inform your guide immediately if you feel any symptoms
Emergency Evacuation: What Happens if You Get Altitude Sickness?
If a trekker develops serious symptoms of altitude sickness, AMS, HACE, or HAPE, our guides are trained to act quickly. Your safety is our top priority on the Everest Three Passes Trek. These are the steps if you get altitude sickness:
- Step 1: Descend: Immediate descent to a lower-altitude teahouse to relieve symptoms
- Step 2: Oxygen: Supplemental oxygen is administered if available; a Gamow bag is used in severe cases
- Step 3: Evacuation: Our team contacts the rescue coordination centre and arranges a helicopter evacuation if required
- Step 4: Insurance: Your emergency helicopter evacuation must be covered by your travel insurance—see our insurance section below
Note: Helicopter evacuation from the Everest region can cost between USD 3,000 and USD 6,000. This is why comprehensive travel insurance with high-altitude helicopter rescue coverage is compulsory for the Everest High Pass Trek.
Everest Three Passes Trek Travel Insurance: What You Need
For the Everest Three Passes Trek, travel insurance that covers everything is not optional. It is a must. The crossing of three high passes over 5,300 m, the trek to Kala Patthar (5,545 m), and the 17 nights spent at altitude carry genuine risks of altitude sickness, injury, and flight disruption. A helicopter evacuation alone can cost between USD 3,000 and USD 6,000 without the right insurance.
Minimum Insurance Limit
- High-altitude helicopter rescue and emergency evacuation cover up to a minimum of 6,000 m
- Medical costs are covered up to a minimum of USD 100,000
- Coverage for weather-related or medical cancellations for trip cancellation and interruption
- Emergency medical transport back to your country of residence
- Lost, delayed or stolen baggage
- Personal liability
The importance of helicopter evacuation coverage
The remoteness of the Khumbu means that in a medical emergency, there is often no option but to airlift the patient out by helicopter. HACE, HAPE, major falls, or cardiac events at altitude require immediate airlifting to a hospital. Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover trekking above 4,000 m.
Note: Always check that your policy covers the Everest High Pass Trek’s altitude before you buy it.
Important: GAT needs proof of valid travel insurance prior to the start of your trek. We suggest that you carry a printed or digital copy of your policy and emergency contact number while trekking on the Everest Three Passes Trek.
Do I Need a Porter on the Three Passes Trek in Nepal?
Our standard Everest High Pass Trek package includes a licensed trekking guide but does not include a porter. While this keeps the base package price accessible, we strongly recommend hiring a porter to make your journey safer, more enjoyable, and more sustainable.
Why Hire a Porter?
- The Everest Three Passes Trek involves 7 to 9 hours of trekking per day at high altitude, and carrying a heavy pack significantly increases fatigue and the risk of altitude sickness.
- A lighter daypack (3 to 5 kg) allows you to focus on your footing on steep, icy pass sections like Cho La and Kongma La.
- Porters are local community members, and hiring one directly supports the livelihoods of Sherpa and highland communities along the trek.
- Your guide's primary role is navigation, safety, and cultural engagement, but a porter handles your main baggage independently
Porter Pricing and Bag Weight Limits
- Porter cost: USD 300 per porter for the full 19-day Everest High Pass Trek.
- One porter can carry a maximum of 20 to 22 kg total
- Two trekkers can share one porter (each trekker's bag up to 10 to 11 kg)
- Porters carry your main duffel bag; you carry your own daypack with water, snacks, camera, and layers
Note: To add a porter to your booking, simply contact our team before your departure date. Porters are local professionals insured and equipped by GAT as part of our responsible trekking commitment.
Everest High Pass Trek for Solo Trekkers
Solo trekkers are very welcome on the Everest Three Passes Trek. Whether you are an independent adventurer joining one of our fixed group departures or prefer a private solo itinerary, GAT has options designed to make your solo Himalayan adventure safe, social, and rewarding.
Can I do the Everest Three Passes Trek Solo?
Yes, but with one mandatory condition. As of 2023, Nepal's government requires all foreign trekkers, including solo trekkers, to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide. Solo trekking without a registered guide is no longer permitted in the Everest region. This rule applies to all routes within Sagarmatha National Park, including the Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La high passes circuit.
Solo Trekker Pricing:
- Solo trekkers joining a fixed group departure pay the standard per-person group rate; there is no solo surcharge on the trek itself.
- Single Room Supplement: A single supplement fee applies at lower-altitude hotels (Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche) where twin-sharing is the default
- Single supplement pricing varies by hotel tier; contact our team for the current rate
- Benefits of Joining a Group Departure as a Solo Trekker
- Meeting new fellow trekkers from around the world and sharing experiences makes the high-pass days more motivating and memorable.
- The shared guide cost is already factored into the group rate; there is no additional cost for guide services
- Greater safety on demanding pass days (you are never alone on the most challenging sections of the trek)
- Social evenings at teahouse dining halls are one of the most celebrated parts of the Everest trekking experience
If you want a fully private solo itinerary, GAT can arrange a fully customized 19-day Everest Three Passes Trek on your preferred dates with a dedicated private guide. Contact our trekking experts for a tailored quote.
Group Trek vs. Private Trek: Which is Right for You?
Global Adventure Trekking (GAT) offers the Everest High Pass Trek as both a fixed-group departure and a fully customized private trek. Each option offers a different experience, price point, and level of flexibility. Here is a quick comparison to help you choose:
| Feature |
Group Trek (group-joining trek): Fixed Departure |
Private Trek: Custom Trek |
| Price |
From USD 1,299/person |
Higher: Based on group size |
| Departure Dates |
Fixed Dates |
Flexible |
| Group Size |
Up to 12 trekkers |
Solo, couples, families, or corporate groups |
| Pace |
Standard itinerary pace |
Set your own pace with extra acclimatization days |
| Itinerary |
Fixed 19-day route |
Fully customizable: add extensions, extra side trips, other extension adventures, or pass options |
| Guide |
Shared experienced guide |
Dedicated private guide |
| Best Deal For |
Solo travelers, budget-conscious trekkers, and social experiences |
Families, trekkers with specific needs, and special occasions. |
Tip: If you are a solo traveler joining a group departure, a single supplement fee applies for private room accommodation at lower-altitude hotels. Contact us for current single supplement pricing. Start planning your customize trek with GAT.
Trekking the Ngozumpa Glacier: Nepal’s Longest Glacier in the Himalayas
One of the most awe-inspiring highlights of the Everest Three Passes Trek is the journey along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the entire Himalayan range, stretching approximately 36 kilometers from the slopes of Cho Oyu down into the Gokyo Valley.
Clockwise vs. Counter-Clockwise: Why We Go Counter-Clockwise
GAT runs the Three Passes Trek counterclockwise from Kongma La to Cho La to Renjo La, so you acclimatize progressively, tackle EBC while still building fitness, and hit the remote Gokyo and Renjo La sections at peak acclimatization. It is the safest and most rewarding sequence for the full circuit.
Everest High Pass Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek: Which One is Right for You?
Both the Everest High Pass Trek and the classic Everest Base Camp Trek explore the treasures of the Khumbu region, but they offer different experiences in terms of difficulty, duration, and what you see along the way.
Everest High Pass Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC Trek)
| Category |
Everest High Pass Trek |
Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC Trek) |
| Duration |
19 Days |
14 Days |
| Route Style |
Full loop circuit |
Out-and-back |
| Maximum Altitude |
5,545 m (Kala Patthar) |
5,545 m (Kala Patthar) |
| High Passes |
3 High Passes: Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), Renjo La (5,360 m) |
None |
| Glacier Cross |
Cho La Pass |
None |
| Difficulty Level |
Strenuous |
Moderate to Challenging |
| Ideal For |
Experienced trekkers with high Himalayan experiences. |
First-time high-altitude trekkers |
| Everest Base Camp |
Included |
Included |
| Kala Patthar |
Included |
Included |
| Gokyo Lakes |
Included |
Not included |
| Gokyo Ri |
Included |
Not included |
| Ngozumpa Glacier |
Included |
Not included |
| Thame Valley |
Included |
Not included |
| Crowd Level |
Moderate |
High |
| Starting Price |
USD 1,299 per person |
USD 1,150 per person |
| Best Season |
Spring and Autumn |
Spring and Autumn |
| Requiring Training |
3 to 6 months of structured training |
2 to 3 months of general fitness training |
Everest High Pass Trek Cancellation and Refund Policy
A 20% deposit to confirm your booking, which is refundable. Balance payable on arrival in Kathmandu. If you need to cancel, please send a written notification to our team. Cancellation charges will apply depending on how close you cancel to departure: 30% if cancelled within 15-30 days, 40% within 10-15 days, 75% within 8-10 days, and 100% if cancelled within 7 days or less.
Note: The first 10% deposit is non-refundable for trip cancellations, but you can postpone your trip at no extra cost. In the event of natural disasters, political unrest, or other unpredictable circumstances outside our control, we will offer a full refund or an alternative trip of equal standard. For full booking, payment, and cancellation terms, please see our Terms & Conditions.
Book with Confidence!
Preparations for the 19-Day Everest Three Pass Trek 2026/2027: Necessary Gear and Equipment Checklist
The Everest Three Pass Trek is a demanding journey suitable for those with a good level of endurance and stamina. Preparing for the trek is crucial to completing this difficult journey. You can engage in cardio training and hiking practice to tackle diverse terrains. Also, packing wisely is crucial for your comfort and safety.
Additionally, there is a risk of altitude sickness during the trek. Therefore, acclimatization is crucial for a safe and successful trek. Our itinerary is meticulously crafted with precise rest days in key locations like Namche Bazaar and Chhukung. These days, you will hike to a higher altitude before returning to your low-altitude teahouse to rest and refuel for the more demanding trek ahead. This also helps your body adjust to the thinning air, reducing the risks of altitude sickness.
Here is a comprehensive list of necessary gear and equipment:
Head
- Trekking Hat/Cap
- Headlamp/ Flashlight (with extra batteries), good quality
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Woolen hat / beanie (for cold weather)
- Bandana/Buff (for dust and sun protection)
- Sunblock (Sunscreen) (SPF 40 or higher)
- Insect Repellent (for lower trekking areas)
Body
- Base Layer Shirt: Two (moisture-wicking, breathable fabric)
- Trekking Jacket: A pair of lightweight (water-resistant/windproof)
- Insulating Layer: A pair (fleece, down jacket, or sweater for warmth)
- Rain Jacket/poncho (lightweight, waterproof)
- Trekking Trousers/Pants: Two pairs (comfortable and durable)
- Long-sleeve shirt: 1 pair (for sun or insect protection)
- Underwear: Two pairs (moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric)
- Compression Garments (for reducing muscle fatigue, optional)
- Gore-Tex or a similar waterproof jacket
Lower Body
- Trekking Pants: Two pairs (convertible into shorts if needed)
- Thermal Leggings: one (for cold weather)
- Shorts: Two (optional, for warmer weather)
- Knee Guards/Support (for those who need extra knee protection)
- Hands: Protect your hands with warm gloves
- Light inner gloves (for lower-elevation trekking)
- Insulated or down gloves (high-altitude trekking)
- Waterproof gloves (wet season)
Footwear
- Trekking Boots/Shoes (comfortable, waterproof, with good grip and ankle support)
- Gaiters (to protect from mud, snow, or rocks entering boots)
- Thick Socks: Two pairs (merino wool or synthetic, moisture-wicking)
- Lightweight Socks: Two pairs (for warmer weather or layering)
- Sandals/Flip-flops (for campsite/rest stops)
Extra Suggested Items
- Sleeping bag
- Drying towel
- Trekking Poles
- Cash (extra Nepali rupees for additional expenses)
- Backpack + 60 L (Rucksack) (with rain cover and hydration system)
- Hydration System/Water Bottles/Camelback
- Water Purification Tablets/Filter
- Snacks (Energy Bars, Dried Fruits, Nuts)
- First Aid Kit (with basics like bandages and antiseptic, as per personal need)
- Portable Power Bank (to charge devices)
- Camera or Smartphone (to capture the views)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, shampoo, etc.) Feminine hygiene products as needed
- Wet wipes
- Emergency Whistle
- Dry bags
- Clothing Layer
- Hand sanitizer
