3 high passes trek
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Duration
23 days
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Group
16 Pax
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Difficulty
Moderate To Strenous
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Accommodation
Hotel / Lodge
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Max.Altitude
5,438m
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Season
All Season
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Everest High Passes Trek takes us to the Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Valley and its tranquil Lakes, GokyoRi for amazing views of the landscape. More importantly, this route introduces trekkers to the remote and untouched Nangpa La Valley, the Sherpa village of Marlung and the monastery village of Thame. Moreover, trekkers tread on world famous routes while crossing three high passes Kongma La (5,535/18,159 ft), Cho La (5420m/17,782ft) and Renjo La(5,340m/17,520ft).
We begin our Journey to the Everest High Passes Trek with a sightseeing day in Kathmandu which offers a brief exploration of the temples, shrines, bazaars and restaurants of Kathmandu. We take a stimulating mountain flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla on the following day followed by trek up through the classic route to the Sagarmatha National Park playing with mighty DudhKoshi river, colorful landscapes, Gompas and monasteries in the land enclosed by the soaring peaks. After reaching the summit of Kongma La, as we compose our way to the Everest Base Camp we marvel at the spectacle of Khumbu icefall cascading from the Western Cwm. Our trek to the viewpoint of Kala Patthar is followed by the tough climb through Cho La that finally takes us to the cobalt-blue lakes at Gokyo. After enjoying awe inspiring views from the fifth lake and GokyoRi, we make our way to the next great pass, the Renjo La. Making a night in Marlung we follow a little of the route used for centuries by the Tibetan Traders via Nangpa La to get to Thame. Following the classical route, we drop down to Lukla and fly back to Kathmandu leaving behind our foot prints in the shadow of the Everest.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)
Upon arriving at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by our airport representatives who will warmly greet you and transfer to the hotel on a private tourist vehicle. We provide 3-star accommodation in the city and we arrange for a trip briefing with dinner in the evening.
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Day 2
Visit old town of Kathmandu
A professional guide and vehicle are provided for a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu city. We visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city along with other interesting cultural monuments that dot the valley. These include Boudhanath Stupa (the largest Buddhist shrines in the world), Pashupatinath (the holiest Hindu temple in the world), Durbar Squares (Palaces and fortresses of medieval Kings), along with other popular cultural attractions. We get to observe the lifestyle of Nepalese people, holy sadhus and monks, fascinating history as well as awe-inspiring architecture.
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Day 3
Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m/9,186 ft). Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563 ft)
Early in the morning, you will be transferred to the airport in Kathmandu for a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla. The airport guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding (2,610m). There will be some time to explore the village while our Sherpa crew sorts and loads trekking equipment and baggage. The trek starts with a descent to Dudh Kosi River, from where the wider trail leads us to the village of Ghat (2,550m), and then to Phakding on an easy-paced walk.
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Day 4
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,286 ft)
Walking along the shores of Dudh Kosi, we get to cross the serene river many times on exhilarating suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. A little further, we enter Sagarmatha National Park from where the trail climbs steeply with picturesque sights. After trekking for a few hours, we reach Namche Bazaar, known as the Gateway of Everest.
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Day 5
Namche Bazaar acclimatization day
In order to acclimatize to the altitude gained and thinner air, we spend a day in Namche Bazaar. There are several quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, money exchange services, internet cafes and bakeries at this town, also the largest in the Everest region. We pay a visit to the museum nearby known for its traditional artefacts that showcase the Sherpa culture. We also hike to Syangboche Airport from where we can see rewarding vistas of stunning sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan panorama.
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Day 6
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Deboche (3,800m / 12,467ft)
We ascend out of the village and follow a high, fairly level path above the Dudh Kosi enjoying spectacular mountain views of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse as we go. We pass the various shops set up by Tibetans selling trinkets and then descend through forest of blue pine to cross the Dudh Kosi again at Phunki (3,250m). We make another ascent on a switchback trail, sometimes made quite dusty by yak trains, to reach the spectacularly sited Thyangboche Monastery (3,867m) from where there are brilliant views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and Taboche to the north and northeast, Thamserku and Kantega to the southeast and Kwangde to the southwest. Thyangboche Monastery was seriously damaged by fire in 1989 but has since been rebuilt and there will be time to visit both the monasteries and a museum. We reach our teahouse at Deboche. 6 hours walk.
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Day 7
Trek from Deboche to Dingboche (4,350m/14,272 ft)
We descend through meadows and rhododendron forest, past the Buddhist nunnery at Deboche, to the Imja Khola. Then up along the north bank of the river, with spectacular views of AmaDablam, to a teahouse at Orsho. Crossing the confluence of the Khumbu and ImjaKholas we continue to Dingboche (4410m). 7 hours walk.
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Day 8
Dingboche acclimatization day
A day for acclimatization and exploring: you can do a day’s walk up the Imja Khola valley through Bibre at 5,060m to the yak huts at Chukhung. Here are good views of the east face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse-Nuptse wall. Or you can walk north, up along the valley side to the ruined Nangkartshang Gompa, or continue up to nearby Nangkartshang peak with its fantastic views. 5 hours walk.
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Day 9
Trek from Dingboche to Chukhung (4,710m/15,453 ft), back to Dingboche
A day’s walk up the Imja Khola valley through Bibre at 4,570m to the yak huts at Chukhung and on to a small view point above at 5,546m to the Chukkung Ri. Here are good views of the east face of Ama Dablam and the Lhotse- Nuptse wall. About 8 hours walk.
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Day 10
Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109 ft)
We start 6 am after Breakfast and with Pack Lunch towards the pass, a gentle strong along the valley at first, followed by a steep ascent into the deep valley between Pokalde Peak and Chhukung. This will be a big day as we ascend to the Kongma La pass (5530m) amid the crags of this outlying ridge from nearby Nuptse. From the pass we descend steeply to the Khumbu Glacier which we cross, clambering up the moraines on the far side to reach the meadow by the Italian high altitude research pyramid where we plan to camp the night. The difficulty of today's trek should not be underestimated, particularly in snow conditions where the trek across the glacier at the conclusion of the day can be quite exhausting. About 8 hours walk. Lobuche (4910m)
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Day 11
Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,365m/17,602 ft) and to Gorakshep (5,180m/16,995 ft)
This morning we will have an early start and head up to Everest Base Camp itself. Our trek starts with a gentle ascent initially which later develops into a steeper ascent of about half an hour. A descent back down then brings us to Gorakshep (5150m) where we will check into our lodge. The trail splits at this stage and goes to the small peak of Kala Pattar one way and Everest Base Camp in the other. We will take the Base Camp route and head up to take a look. There may be the possibility to meet climbers and their crew at the camp on their way up the mountain. Once we have explored the Base Camp and seen all it has to offer we will retrace our steps back to GorakShep where we will spend the night.
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Day 12
Trek from Gorakshep to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109 ft)
Taking the other route today we have a steep ascent, which brings us to the top of Kala Pattar (5545m). From here, on a clear day, we will have the opportunity to see the breath taking views of the surrounding mountain peaks; Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku, Tawache, Pumori Gyachung Kang plus Khumbu Icefall and Glacier. After taking in this fabulous sight we will head back down again back to Gorakshep and on to Lobuche for our overnight stay. 6-7 hrs walk
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Day 13
Trek from Lobuche to Dzonghla (4,710m/15,453 ft)
We head west towards the Cho La Pass, contouring around a head and towards the picturesque Dzong La Pass which cuts across a jagged spur that descends from the summit of Lobuche Peak. The path takes an obvious, gently ascending line, but is very narrow and in snowy conditions can be slippery. High on the flanks of Lobuche we will lunch beside a glacial lake before a long descent to a magnificent settlement at the foot of Cholatse, near the base of the Cho La pass. About 4-5 Hours walk. Dzongla 4830m. For those who feel up to it, there is an optional climb of Awi Peak at 5245m
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Day 14
Trek from Dzongla to Tagnag (4,350m / 14,272ft)
Trek over Chola La (5,430m) Tagnag at 4,800m, 7-8hrs. The views today are magnificent as we leave the Everest watershed and enter that of Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world. The crossing is hard work, involving a steep scramble up rock boulders and then a walk across the gently ascending, snow-covered glacier that caps the pass. However, the views of the route ahead, and of the glacier itself, are breath-taking. We descend steep boulder strewn slopes to the Gokyo valley below. This is a valley of turquoise lakes and great glaciers. For the first (and steepest) part of the descent there are discernible paths that zigzag down the mountainside - slippery in snow! The ground then levels out and the path all but disappears as we hop across a field of boulders. Finally we climb a gentle slope to the top, from where its all downhill (for today at least!), following a narrow river valley all the way to its base where we stay overnight at Tagnag, a small Sherpa settlement nestled beneath great rock walls, just a stone's throw from the Ngozumba Glacier
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Day 15
Trek from Tagnag to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715 ft)
We cross the glacier and ascend the lateral moraine valley past beautiful lakes with Siberian ducks Swimming across the mirror-calm surface, to the village of Gokyo 4,790m. An easy day.About 5 hours walk.
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Day 16
Hike from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5,438m/17,841 ft) and back to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715 ft)
Again we make early start to get the best views. Crossing a stream we make a long steep ascend to the small peak called Gokyo Ri to the northwest at 5,360m. Excellent views from here of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Makalu. About 6 hours walk.
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Day 17
Trek from Gokyo to Lungden (4,300m / 14,108ft)
The days walk is rewarding as the top exposes the view of Everest massif in the east, Rolwaling Himal in the west with other snowy peaks towards north. An early morning start for the steep climb up to the Renjo-la pass (5,345m) before descending to the settlement of Lungden 4380m. There is a chance we will meet Tibetan Traders descending from the Nangpa La pass that leads through the Himalayas from Tibet with their caravans of woolly yaks laden with goods. About 7 hours walk.
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Day 18
Trek from Lungden to Thame (3,800m / 12,467ft)
We walk for about 4 hours through a stunning landscape on an old trade route to Tibet to the village to Thame, the birthplace of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, the first man to summit Mt. Everest along with Sir Hillary.
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Day 19
Trek from Thame to Monzo (2,825m/9,268 ft)
Our trail today first descends to the river before hiking on the gradual and beautiful trail towards the village of Namche. The trail then descends to join the main trail to Namche Bazaar. After lunch we descend even further to Monzo (2840m). Approximately 7hrs.
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Day 20
Trek Monzo to Lukla (2,800m/9,186 ft)
Retracing our steps along the east bank of the Dudh Kosi we make our final ascent down to Lukla, arriving sometime in the middle of the afternoon, affording ample time to relax and enjoy the feeling of a job well done. Lukla itself is a thriving community that is an eclectic mix of Sherpas, yaks, trekkers and soldiers and makes for a fascinating place to explore at the end of the trek. Total walking: Approx 5 hours. Ascent 100m/descent 140m.
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Day 21
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)
Today we fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla, and during your flight you can enjoy some last-minute glimpses of the mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can rest, relax and go sightseeing throughout the day.
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Day 22
Leisure day in Kathmandu
This is a leisure and free day in Kathmandu for exploration. You are free to go souvenir shopping, spa and more exploration of the city, or extend your trip to include bungee jumping, rafting, mountain biking, Everest mountain flight and other adventurous activities. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner at Mul Chowk Restaurant’s cozy and elegant dining ambience.
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Day 23
Departure from Nepal
The trip concludes today. You will be dropped at Kathmandu's Tribhuwan International Airport by our airport representative for your flight departure from Nepal.
What's included
Price Details
Please enquire with us for prices
Price Includes
- - All ground transportation by private vehicle for airport and hotel pick up/drop off, sightseeing and transfers
- - All domestic flights (if any)
- - Accommodation in teahouses and hotels
- - All meals during trek
- - Entry permit to parks, monuments and cultural landmarks
- - Trekking guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s) their daily wages, food, accommodation and other expenses
- - Comprehensive medical kit
- - In case of emergency, we can send helicopters for evacuation, manage all paperwork, and deal with related insurance companies (provided the client has valid insurance)
Not included
- - International airfare and airport departure tax
- - Travel insurance covering medical treatment and evacuation by ground and air
- - Nepal entry visa, obtained upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu
- - Rescue and evacuation
- - Extra road transport/flight cost in case member returns earlier
- - Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and if applicable, in Pokhara
- - Items of personal nature like laundry, communication and bar bill
- - Tips for trip staff and driver. (Tipping is appreciated)
- - Other expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section
Life on Trek
Trekking staff
Whilst on the trek, the Nepali guides and porters will ensure that you are well looked after. Every trek has an English speaking guide, known as the Sirdar, who is in overall charge. It is his responsibility to organize the trek en route and manage the guides and porters and deal with the local peoples and they are experts in trek organization, as well as being able to discuss the local culture, religion, and landscape. In addition there will be other guides, sometimes referred to by the generic term Sherpa, who will be your walking companions on the trek and will assist the Sirdar in organizing the logistic of the trek. On camping treks there will be full kitchen crew who are responsible for all aspects of catering. And finally there will be porters who are the transportation system of the Nepali mountains. They will carry the duffle bags and other equipment as necessary.
Accommodation
- Fully equipped Camping treks - accommodation is provided in spacious 2 person tents. We use this method for our climbing trips and some treks where lodges are less frequent.
- Lodge trek - accommodation is provided in the local Nepali lodges, some times known as tea- houses. It is usually necessary to share a double room. We use this method for our treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions.
Food
On camping treks, all food is prepared by the trek cook - an expert in preparing delicious camp food. And most importantly, special care is taken to provide well - boiled, purified drinking water. On lodge treks, food is provided in the lodge and this ranges from delicious local specialties to common western dishes. If necessary, bottled water can be purchased from the lodges for a small fee, although many trekkers prefer to use fresh water with the added precaution of a purifying agent. You could bring some Chocolate or special energy drinks for yourself as these are hard to get in the Himalayas.
A typical trekking day
A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset. The day starts with an early wake up call. You then pack up your gear and enjoy a rousing breakfast before starting your morning's walk. The Sirdar will already be organized loads to porters and or animals, and your group will then set off on the trail at a leisurely pace, enjoying the view and stopping to take photographs. After 2-3 hours walk you stop for lunch. This lasts for about 90 minutes which gives you time to relax, or explore the local village. The afternoon's walk is usually shorter and we arrive at the campsite or tea-house in plenty of time to relax and savour the surroundings. Later in the evening dinner is served, giving you an opportunity to sample the delicious food, talk over the day's events, and look forward to another special day on the trails of Nepal.
Health and safety on the trek General
- A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on the trek. However we advise that you also carry your personal first aid kit which includes specific items of preference.
- We will, in an emergency, arrange for helicopter evacuation. (Note that you are required to hold insurance for this unlikely eventuality).
- All meals on our camping trips are prepared to strict hygiene standards specifically for our groups, under the supervision of the trekking staff.
- We use tea-houses that we now have strict hygiene standards and provide a broad menu.
High Altitude
Anyone can be affected by Altitude Sickness. However, our itineraries are specifically designed to minimize the risks associated with trekking to high altitudes by building in acclimatization and rest days. In the event of any symptoms we will ensure that the individual descends to a lower altitude to gain a quick recovery.
And finally……….. It must be stressed that whilst trekking in the Nepal Himalaya is challenging and rewarding, you must be prepared for he occasional inconvenience or discomfort. The correct mental attitude to trekking is as important as being physically prepared.
Equipments
All equipment and food, and your own personal backpacks are carried by the porters or pack animals. It is only necessary to carry a camera or small daypack ! On camping treks all necessary camp equipment is provided - this includes dining tent, dining table and chairs, toilet tent, foam mattresses, and all cooking equipment. The only kit that you will need to bring is your own personal equipment and clothing.
Recommended Trekking Kit
The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend that you take with you. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.
Footwear
- Walking boots with suitable ankle support that have been worn - in prior to the trek, and which are waterproof.
- Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking andor for traveling
- Warm socks for colder areas.
- Gaiters ,,in case of rain or snow.
Leg wear
- Loose, casual trousers for trekking.
- Thermal leggings for colder areas.
- Long skirt for women as an alternative to trousers
- Waterproof trousers
Body
- Selection of T-shirts, and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton.
- Thermal shirt for colder areas.
- Warm shirt, possibly fleece, for colder areas.
- Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
- Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment for higher altitudes.
- Down jacket (optional for cold nights & mornings: can be hired in Kathmandu cheaply)
Head Hands
- Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava.
- Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking.
- Sunglasses or goggles.
- Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
- Warm gloves.
Other Items
- Strong rucksack, or large holdall to be carried by porters
- Day sack to be carried personally.
- Plastic bags or stuff sacks to storeseparate trekking gear inside your main bag.
- One liter water bottle.
- Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
- Sleeping bag 4 season.
- Torch, ideally head torch.
- Camera and film! - for those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalaya.
- Toilet items and towel.
- Large handkerchief bandana for neck.
Recommended Mountaineering Kit
In additional to the items mentioned above for trekking the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.
- Plastic or Leather mountaineering boots, with gaitors & crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
- Fleece trousers or salopettes.
- Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing.
- Ice ace, and ski poles (Note: ice axe can hired in Kathmandu)
- Climbing harness
- 2 X tape slings
- 2 X screw gate karabiners.
- Descended abseil device Ascender
9 days
Moderate
Moderate To Strenous
