The 3 Passes Trek
Above map is for area reference only. Days displayed are not applicable
The Three Passes Trek
Kongma La Pass - Elevation - 5,535 m (18,160 ft)
Cho La Pass - Elevation - 5,420 m (17,782 ft)
Renjo La Pass - Elevation - 5,360 m (17,585 ft)
This world renowned trek is a challenging endeavour involving long days with some bouldering, scrambling and modest glacier and snow travel. Although the route is not technical or exposed, spiked rubber pull-ons and good quality hiking boots are highly recommended. The trek makes a complete circuit from Lukla and ends in Thame, encompassing 3 high passes between large valley systems that traverse almost the entire Khumbu region. One really gets a feel for the more remote areas of the Solu-Khumbu and how it all ties together.
The Trek can be completed either clockwise or counter clockwise. It can also be completed in stages as there are trails in and out through the Gyoko valley, if necessary.
A high level of fitness and stamina is required to complete this trek. It is truly worth the effort! Each of the passes takes a full strenuous day and a rest day between each is usually needed, especially in a group trek.
TRIP OUTLINE:
Three Passes Route - Counter Clockwise
Day 1: Fly to Lukla & trek to Ghat - 2 hours mostly downhill.
Day 2: Ghat to Jorsalle - 6 hours mostly uphill
Day 3: Jorsalle to Namche Bazaar - 4 to 6 hours strenuous uphill
Day 4: Namche - rest & altitude acclimatization
Day 5: Namche to Khumjung - 4 hours with a visit to Kunde Peak on the way (unparalleled views of Everest, Lhotse, & others)
Day 6: Khumjung to Deboche - 6-7 hours mostly uphill with a stop at the highest monastery in the world at Tengboche
Day 7: Deboche to Dingboche - 6 hours
Day 8: Dingboche - rest & altitude acclimatization day
Day 9: Dingboche to Laboche via Kongma La Pass - 7 hours strenuous
Day 10: Laboche to Gorak Shep - 3 hours plus and ascent of Kalapatar
Day 11: Gorak Shep to Dzongla - 6 hours
Day 12: Dzongla to Gokyo - 8-9 hours strenuous
Day 13: Gokyo rest day - optional ascent of Gokyo Ri
Day 14: Gokyo to Lungden over Renjo Pass - 8 hours strenuous
Day 15: Lungden to Thame - 5 hours downhill
Day 16: Thame to Kathmandu via helicopter