Everest High Pass trek is a great choice for hikers who want something more than the standard Everest Base Camp route. It includes all the highlights of the Everest region but adds three dramatic high passes—Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La.
What Is the Everest High Pass Trek?
The Everest High Pass Trek is a circular route in the Everest region. It connects three high mountain passes, each above 5,000 meters. The trek also includes visits to:
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Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
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Kalapatthar (5,545m) for sunrise views of Mount Everest
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Gokyo Lakes, a beautiful glacial lake system
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Traditional Sherpa villages like Namche, Thame, and Dingboche
The journey usually takes 18 to 22 days, depending on rest days and pace. It begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
The Three High Passes
1. Kongma La Pass (5,535m)
This is the highest and often the most difficult of the three. The trail is rocky and steep, and there are no teahouses along the pass. You’ll need to carry enough water and snacks before starting the climb.
2. Cho La Pass (5,420m)
Cho La is known for its icy sections and a short glacier crossing. It connects the Everest Base Camp trail with the Gokyo Valley.
3. Renjo La Pass (5,360m)
Renjo La is considered the most scenic. From the top, you can see the Gokyo Lakes, Mount Everest, and other surrounding peaks. The descent to Gokyo is steep but manageable.
Who Is This Trek For?
This trek is for people who have some experience with multi-day hiking and want a bigger challenge. It’s physically demanding because of the high altitude and long walking hours. However, you don’t need climbing skills or ropes to complete the route.
Acclimatization is key. It’s important to go slow, drink plenty of water, and take rest days to avoid altitude sickness.
Where You Stay
There are teahouses along the route where you can eat and sleep. They offer basic meals like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and tea. Rooms are simple with twin beds and shared toilets.
It’s a good idea to bring a warm sleeping bag, as nights can be very cold at high altitudes.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for this trek are:
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Spring (March to May) – clear skies and rhododendron blooms
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Autumn (September to November) – stable weather and great views
Winter is very cold, and summer brings rain and cloud cover, making the trail slippery and the views less clear.
Things to Keep in Mind
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Trekking permits are required (TIMS and Sagarmatha National Park entry).
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A guide is not mandatory, but highly recommended for safety.
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You’ll need travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking.
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Be prepared for cold weather, especially at the passes.
Final Thoughts
The Everest High Pass Trek is a challenging but deeply rewarding experience. It lets you explore the less-crowded parts of the Everest region, see remote valleys, and cross high alpine passes—all while being surrounded by some of the tallest mountains on Earth.
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