Three Passes with Lobuche East Peak

Three Passes with Lobuche East Peak
  • Duration23 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Hard
  • Maximum Altitude 6119m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Size 1+
  • Accommodation Hotel/Teahouse/Lodge
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Best Season March to May and September to December

Three Passes with Lobuche East Peak is an exhilarating expedition that combines trekking through three high mountain passes in the Everest region of Nepal with the challenging ascent of Lobuche East Peak. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, remote trails, and the thrill of conquering a Himalayan peak.

Undertaking the Three Passes with Lobuche East Peak expedition is a physically demanding and challenging endeavor. Prior trekking experience, physical fitness, and proper acclimatization are essential. It is highly recommended to embark on this adventure with experienced guides or mountaineering companies who can ensure your safety, provide the necessary equipment, and guide you through the intricacies of the route and the climb.

Overall, the Three Passes with Lobuche East Peak expedition is a thrilling and rewarding experience that combines the beauty of high mountain passes with the exhilaration of summiting a Himalayan peak. It offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, cultural exploration, and a true sense of accomplishment in the heart of the Everest region.

Highlights
  • Renowned Mountain Passes: The Three Passes route takes you through three high-altitude mountain passes: Renjo La Pass (5,388m/17,513ft), Cho La Pass (5,380m/17,650ft), and Kongma La Pass (5,535m/18,159ft). Crossing these passes offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Remote and Less Crowded: The Three Passes route is less traveled compared to the popular Everest Base Camp trek. As a result, you'll have the opportunity to experience the wilderness, solitude, and tranquility of the region, away from the crowds.
  • Scenic Landscapes: The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, including glacial valleys, alpine meadows, rugged terrains, and picturesque villages. You'll encounter beautiful lakes, towering mountains, and breathtaking panoramas at every turn.
  • Technical Mountaineering: Climbing Lobuche East Peak requires technical mountaineering skills, including the use of crampons, ropes, and ice axes. The ascent involves crossing glaciated terrain, negotiating steep slopes, and navigating through crevasses.
  • Majestic Summit Views: From the summit of Lobuche East Peak at an elevation of 6,119m (20,075ft), climbers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The vistas from the top are truly awe-inspiring.
  • Himalayan Achievement: Reaching the summit of Lobuche East Peak is a significant accomplishment. It offers a sense of pride and fulfillment, allowing climbers to celebrate their mountaineering skills and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Everest region.
  • Sherpa Villages: Along the journey, you'll have the opportunity to visit traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Pangboche. These villages provide insights into the unique Sherpa culture, their warm hospitality, and their connection to the mountains.
  • Buddhist Monasteries: The region is dotted with Buddhist monasteries, including the famous Tengboche Monastery. These monasteries offer a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local religious traditions and practices.
Itinerary

As you arrive at TIA, our team will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the hotel in the city. You can freshen up and take a rest. You can also explore the vibrant market of the Thamel area which is popularly known as the tourist hub in Kathmandu. 

  • Max. Altitude:1400m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, you will wake up early in the morning and take a 30-minute senic flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. After you reach Lukla you will begin your trek. You will walk for 4-5 hours and reach Phakding today. The trekking trail will take you through the Dudh Koshi Valley, passing through small villages and forests. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in Phakding.

  • Max. Altitude:2,835 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You will trek to Namche Bazar from Phakding. The trek trail will take you through beautiful pine forests along the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross several suspension bridges beautifully adorned with colorful prayer flags. Your trail will take you through Monjo which is the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. 

After climbing steeply for 5-6 hours, you will finally reach Namche Bazar popularly known as the sherpa capital. You will stay overnight in Namche Bazer.
 

  • Max. Altitude:3,450 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the first acclimatization day of this trek. You will wake up, eat breakfast, and take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks. The Everest View Hotel is one of the luxury hotels built at the highest altitude in the world. You will stay overnight in Namche Bazaar.  In the afternoon you can walk around Namche, and explore the market, people, and food at your own pace. 

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early in the morning and trek through rhododendron forests, passing by small villages like Phunki Tenga. After walking for 5-6 hours you will reach Tenboche Monastery. Overnight stay at Tenboche.
 

  • Max. Altitude:3,800 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will descend through forests to Deboche, then climb gradually to Pangboche. You will walk for about 5-6 hours and reach Dingboche from Tenbouche. You will overnight stay in a teahouse in Dingboche.

  • Max. Altitude:4,410 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is your second acclimatization day. You will take a short hike to Nagarjun Hill for acclimatization and views of Makalu, Lhotse, and other peaks. You can rest and prepare for the coming trek days. You will stay overnight in Dingboche.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, wake up, have your breakfast, and begin walking for Chhukung. You will walk for 2-3 hours and then reach your target destination. The trail trek is scenic, passing through yak pastures and small villages. You will stay in a teahouse in Chhukung.
 

  • Max. Altitude:4,730 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, you trek to Island Peak Base Camp from Chhukung. You will trek for 3 - 4 hours and reach the base camp. The view from the camp is amazing. Prepare for the summit attempt.
You will overnight stay in Camp at Island Peak Base Camp.
 

  • Max. Altitude:5,100 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, you will wake up early in the morning and ascent to the summit. The climb involves crossing glaciers and climbing steep snow slopes. Afterward, on the same day, you will descend back to Chhukung after the summit. You will stay overnight in Chhukung.
 

  • Max. Altitude:6,189 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will wake up early in the morning and start your trek to Lobuche via Kongma La Pass. The path is challenging and involves climbing steep, rocky terrain. After walking for 8 -9 hours you will finally reach Lobuche. You will stay overnight in Lobuche.
 

  • Max. Altitude:5,535 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will trek to Gorak Shep, a small settlement at 5,164 meters. After reaching Gorak Shep, continue the trek toward EBC. Spend some time in the base camp, click some pictures, and return to Gorak Shep for the night. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in Gorak Shep today.

  • Max. Altitude:5,364 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You will today hike to Kala Patthar for a spectacular sunrise view of Everest. Descend and trek to Dzongla. After walking for about 6-7 hours you will reach Dzongla. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in Dzongla.
 

  • Max. Altitude:4,830 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today your trek trail will take you through Cho La Pass. Cross the challenging Cho La Pass, which involves walking on glaciers and rocky trails. Then, after walking for about 7-8 hours descend to Dragnak. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in Dragnak.

  • Max. Altitude:5,420 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, your trek trail takes you to beautiful Gokyo, passing through glacial valleys and streams. You can explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes upon arrival. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in Gokyo.
 

  • Max. Altitude:4,800 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early in the morning and climb to Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. You will also explore the 4th and 5th Gokyo Lakes. This is a rest and acclimatization day for the trek. You will stay overnight in a teahouse in Gokyo.
 

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, cross the Renjo La Pass, enjoying breathtaking views of the Everest region. You will descend to Marlung or Thame. After walking for 7 - 8 hours you will reach your destination. You will stay overnight in a teahouse.

  • Max. Altitude:5,340 meters
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today after having breakfast you will trek through the traditional villages of the Thame Valley. After walking for 5-6 hours you will reach Namche Bazaar. You will stay overnight in Namche Bazar.
 

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, you will descend through the Dudh Koshi Valley, retracing your steps to Lukla. You will Celebrate the completion of the trek. You will stay overnight in Lukla.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After waking up early, you will take a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. Our team will transfer you to our hotel. You can do last-minute shopping or sightseeing. You will stay overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
Our team will bid farewell to Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Everest Three Passes Trek.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Notes: The flight from Lukla to Kathmandu is redirected to Ramechhap due to traffic congestion and a high influx of tourists during the high season. The high tourist season in Nepal is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In the season of tourism, there are many international and domestic flights operating in different sectors which is more than capacities of the small Tribhuban international airport. Due to this reason, there is the problem with air traffic and delays in Lukla flights too. Lukla flights are only in the morning time and it does not fly during day time due to heavy wind and foggy weather on the way to Lukla. If the flights are from Ramechaap, there is no issue of air traffic and flight duration is also less than from Kathmandu. Flight to Ramechhap will add 5 hours approx. to your journey. It seems like an added inconvenience but let’s see the brighter side

Cost Details
Includes

1. Arrival & Departure by Private Car

2. Accommodation in a standard hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights on sharing basis

3. All meals are prepared by our experienced cook during the climb

4. All accommodation and food (breakfast, lunch and Dinner (main course only) in lodges before base camp

5. All Domestic Flight tickets with Airport Tax

6. All camping equipment and gear, including two-person tent, dining tent, toilet tent, porter tent, and Kitchen tent

7. All camping equipment, including kitchen equipment, tables, chairs/stools, etc

8. Porters/pack animals to carry all personal gear and group equipment

9. Experienced Guide/Escort

10. Private Transport from Kathmandu to/ from trek starting and ending points

11. Basic first Aid kit

12. Trekking maps

13. Trekking permit & fees, National Park entry fees, Conservation fees

14. Insurance for all staff

15. High altitudes chamber bags (PAC) for very high altitudes

Excludes

1. International Air-fare

2. All bar bills during the trek (soft drinks, hot drinks & alcoholic drinks)

3. PCR Tests

4. Items of personal drinks, Dessert, and main meals in cities

5. Your Travel Insurance

6. Hot showers during the trek

7. Personal trekking equipment

8. Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

9. Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is respected but it is not obligatory)

FAQs
  • Everest shares the border with Nepal and Tibet, an autonomous region of China. At 8,848.86 meters (29,032 feet), it is the tallest point on Earth above sea level. 

  • The trek generally takes around 18 to 21 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and your pace.

  • Yes, prior trekking experience is recommended for the Everest Three Pass Trek. The trek involves steep ascents, long hikes, and high-altitude conditions, requiring a good level of fitness and familiarity with trekking in rugged terrains.

  • Essential items to pack include warm clothing layers, a good quality sleeping bag, sturdy trekking boots, a backpack, a down jacket, a rain jacket, trekking poles, a first aid kit, high-altitude medication, water purification tablets, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera.

  • Yes, altitude sickness is a concern during the trek, as you will be crossing high mountain passes. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, ascending gradually, and being aware of symptoms are crucial. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before the trek.

  • The Everest Three Pass Trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness, endurance, and stamina. It involves long and steep ascents and descents, as well as walking for several hours each day at high altitudes.

  • The Everest region is home to various wildlife, including Himalayan thar, musk deer, snow leopards (rarely spotted), and a variety of bird species. However, spotting wildlife requires luck and patience.

  • Teahouses along the route offer a variety of meals, including Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Western dishes. Dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, pasta, and fried rice are commonly available. Vegetarian and vegan options are also offered.

  • It's advisable to carry enough cash in Nepalese Rupees to cover your expenses during the trek. ATMs are available in some larger villages, but they may not always be reliable or accessible, and it's better to be prepared.

  • There are rescue services available in the Everest region in case of emergencies. It's important to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuations. Contact local authorities or your trekking agency for assistance in case of emergencies.

  • The three highest passes are Kongma La Pass, 5,535 m/ 18,159 ft, Cho La Pass, 5,420m /17,782 ft and Renjo La Pass 5,360 m /17,560 ft . 

  • Like most of the trekking in the Everest Region, trekking in the Three Pass in Everest requires two main permits.

    Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
    Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance
    [Note: TIMS card is not required for this trek]

    1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
    Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit can be obtained at the Entry Gate in Monjo.

    The cost of the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit is different for people of different countries.

    For Nepalese – Rs. 100 (Nepali) / 0.84 (USD),

    For SAARC countries -Rs. 1500 (Nepali) / $12 to $13 (USD),

    For Other countries -Rs. 3000 (Nepali) / $24.5 to $26 (USD),

    Note: The above cost is per person and costs an additional 13% VAT.

    Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit
    Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit can be obtained at Lukla.  it can’t be obtained at Kathmandu.

    The cost of the permit to Khumbu Rural Municipality is the same for all nationals which is NPR 2000 or $16 to $18. However, the cost is applicable for 4 weeks only.

    If you decide to visit for more than 4 weeks, you have to pay  NPR 2500 which is equal to 20 to 22 USD.

  • Three Pass trek is one of the longest trekking done in Nepal. The trekking distance ranges between 160 kilometers(99 miles) and 185 meters(115 miles), depending upon the side trips you take.

    And the distance from Kathmandu to Lukla is additionally 138 km which is just a 30-minute flight.

  • Three Pass Trekking is one of the hardest destinations around Everest. You will walk through the three passes which all are above 5300 meters. The trek is classified as Difficult trek and  EBC Trekking is classified as Intermediate.

    And you will be walking for around 5-8 hours of constant walking through the varying lands.

    Walking in the rough, steep, and sloppy paths along with the snowy paths are toiling but rewarding. It will give you a lifetime experience.