Everest Three Pass Trek

Today’s itinerary encompasses an exploration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, featuring a diverse array of Stupas, Temples, and Palaces. Your personalized sightseeing experience will be expertly curated by our knowledgeable city guide at TMG, ensuring an enjoyable and insightful journey.

Kathmandu Durbar Square
Your first destination, Kathmandu Durbar Square, boasts historical significance as a former ceremonial site and palace where coronations of monarchs once took place. Today, it stands as a captivating palace-museum, offering a glimpse into royal life. Wander amidst the awe-inspiring monuments, temples, and statues dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Prepare yourself for a visit to Swayambhunath, perched at a considerable altitude and boasting over 2,000 years of history. This iconic Buddhist Stupa is renowned for its striking likeness of Lord Buddha on each of its sides. The stupa’s base is adorned with the sculpted representations of the 5 Dhyani Buddhas – Vairocana, Ratnasambhava, Amitabha, Amoghasiddhi, and Aksobhya, symbolizing the wisdom of Lord Buddha. Visitors flock to this sacred site for its panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley.

Pashupatinath
Pashupatinath, while ancient, receives ongoing care and maintenance from Nepal’s Hindu Committees. This significant temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, lies in close proximity to central Kathmandu. Please note that the main entrance to Pashupatinath Temple is restricted to Hindus only. However, as a visitor, you can appreciate its architectural grandeur from a distance. If you’re fortunate, you may witness a Hindu cremation ceremony taking place, providing a unique cultural insight.

Bouddhanath
Our final stop, Bouddhanath, is another revered Stupa and a crucial pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Adorned with a prominent white dome akin to Swayambhunath, it holds sacred significance. Legend has it that the stupa contains the remains of either Kasyapa Buddha (a Buddha incarnation) or Lord Buddha himself. Encircling the stupa’s base, you’ll find 108 small images of the Dhyani Buddha Amitabha, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection and exploration. Feel free to visit at your convenience to appreciate these intricate images.

We look forward to embarking on this enriching cultural journey with you, exploring the heritage and spirituality of Kathmandu’s World Heritage Sites.

Following our trek preparation yesterday, we also ensured your insurance details were in order. It is imperative that you carry a copy of your travel medical insurance policy with you throughout the journey.

Today, an exciting day awaits. After a hearty breakfast, we will make our way to the domestic airport. Prepare to embark on a breathtaking 35-minute mountain flight to the renowned Tenzing-Hillary Airport, also known as Lukla Airport. During this scenic flight, you will have the privilege of witnessing the majestic Himalayas, with the towering Everest being the crowning jewel.

Upon landing in Lukla, our trekking adventure commences as we head to Phakding, accompanied by an experienced trekking guide. Along the trekking trail, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of Mt. Nupla (5,885m), Kusum Kanguru (6,367m), and the magnificent Mount Kwongde Range. As we progress, we’ll traverse the picturesque Dudh Kosi Valley, a natural wonder in itself. Should your curiosity beckon, there’s an opportunity to visit a monastery in Phakding, providing a spiritual and cultural dimension to our journey.

Continuing our journey, we will trace the enchanting Dudh Kosi River, leading us to the village of Tok Tok. Along the way, prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring vista of Thamserku, a majestic mountain that graces the horizon.

The trekking trail will take us on an ascent through Chomoa and Monjo, marking our entry into the Sagarmatha National Park. Here, you will be greeted by a mesmerizing display of cascading waterfalls, a testament to nature’s grandeur. The path will undulate, leading us both uphill and downhill, creating a dynamic and engaging trekking experience.

As we meander through this pristine wilderness, you will find yourself surrounded by charming villages adorned with vibrant flowers, including the colorful Rhododendron, elegant Magnolia, and towering fir trees. This harmonious blend with nature will accompany us as we make our way to Namche. Throughout this leg of the journey, you will have numerous opportunities to feast your eyes upon the mountains, with the majestic Mt. Everest and Nuptse gracing the landscape with their unparalleled beauty.

Acclimatization is a critical phase of our journey, as it involves adapting to the higher altitudes we will encounter in the days ahead. However, this does not entail simply resting in the comfort of a lodge. Instead, we have a special treat in store for you to make the most of this acclimatization day.

To witness the ultimate spectacle of the mighty Himalayas, we invite you to embark on a short hike to the Everest View Hotel. This prestigious vantage point offers an awe-inspiring panorama that includes some of the world’s most iconic peaks, such as Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku, Kusum Kangru, Khongde, and Khumbu, among others.

While this hike may be brief, it is worth noting that trekking in the Everest Region is always physically demanding due to the high altitudes and rugged terrain. However, the reward of gazing upon the majestic mountains in all their glory is truly impressive. From this vantage point, you will be treated to a captivating 180-degree view of the Himalayan giants, and the memories forged during this experience will undoubtedly stay with you for a lifetime.

Continuing along the trekking trail, we journey through picturesque villages like Sanasa and Phungi Thanga, each offering unique glimpses of local life. As we traverse this terrain, take a moment to pause and marvel at the breathtaking presence of some of the world’s most renowned peaks, including Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Kwangde, Tabuche, and the iconic Ama Dablam. Additionally, you’ll be treated to a close-up view of the majestic Thamserku, a sight that will undoubtedly capture your heart.

Amidst the fatigue of our trek, we reach the historic Tengboche Monastery, a place of solace and spiritual significance. This sacred site provides respite from the physical demands of our journey and offers a chance to reflect on the incredible beauty and cultural richness of the region. Keep your eyes peeled along the way for the chance to spot the iconic pheasant, a testament to the diverse wildlife that calls this region home.

Following a hearty breakfast, embark on your journey towards Dingboche, beginning with a descent that leads you past Chortens, Mani walls, and serene landscapes. As you make your way, you’ll cross the Imja Khola, a pivotal point along the route. One of the main attractions on this leg of the trek is the spectacular view of Ama Dablam, a mountain revered for its stunning beauty and distinctive shape.

Continue your trekking adventure by crossing the confluence of the river, and then prepare to ascend once more along a steep trail that eventually leads you to Dingboche. Notably, this trail also serves as the gateway to other trekking peaks such as Island Peak and Pokalde Peak, making it a hub for mountaineers and trekkers alike. The breathtaking landscapes and towering peaks will accompany you throughout this memorable journey.

Acclimatization is a critical step in preparing for higher altitudes during your trek. Nangkartshang is renowned as a prime location for acclimatization and is frequented by trekkers and climbers en route to destinations like Mt. Everest Base Camp, Ama Dablam, or Island Peak. The peak of Nangkartshang offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the surrounding mountains, with a particularly striking view of Makalu (8,463 meters).

Alternatively, you have the option of journeying to Dingboche for acclimatization, although this is a half-day trek that can be physically demanding. However, the reward of witnessing the natural marvel that is Makalu makes the effort well worthwhile. This acclimatization process is vital to ensure your safety and comfort as you ascend to even higher altitudes during your trek.

Embarking on the uphill trekking trail, your journey leads you through picturesque fields before you encounter the Imja Khola, a flowing river. Continuing your ascent, you’ll arrive at Bibre, a quaint village, and eventually reach the glacial moraines nestled amidst the colossal mountains. The trail continues to guide you upwards, ultimately bringing you to the highest point. From the summit of Chhukung Ri, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the mountains, featuring the stunning Ama Dablam and the majestic Amphulapche peak. This awe-inspiring view makes the trek well worth the effort.

Among all the passes along this trek, Kongma La stands as the highest. There are various routes leading to this pass, allowing you to choose between the Nuptse Glacier route or the Bibre route. Whichever path you take, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring view from the pass. This breathtaking vista encompasses a serene blue lake and a stunning array of mountains, including the towering Lhotse (8,516m), Lhotse Shar (8,382m), Makalu (8,463m), Baruntse (7,152m), Ama Dablam (6,814m), and many more.

Today, our primary objective is to reach the illustrious Everest Base Camp. We will navigate a narrow and rugged path, and at one point, there will be an option to take a detour. Your guide will ensure we remain on the original trekking route. Along the way, we will visit the Italian Pyramid and traverse rocky dunes, moraines, and streams. As we proceed, we will encounter a glacier, and the trail becomes rocky and exposed to the wind, all while providing us with stunning vistas of Mt. Pumori. Our journey will also take us towards the formidable Khumbu Icefall. This segment of the trek is challenging due to the high altitude and thin air. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp and taking in its breathtaking beauty, we will bid it farewell.

Upon reaching the summit of Kalapathar, you’ll discover a place teeming with life, and it holds a special place in the hearts of all Everest enthusiasts. Kalapathar is a well-renowned viewpoint that offers an unparalleled 360-degree panoramic view. From here, you can behold the majesty of Mt. Everest, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku, and many more awe-inspiring peaks. After taking in this stunning vista, we will descend to Lobuche.

Departing from Lobuche, we will begin our descent, trekking downhill alongside the Khumbu Glacier. As you follow the trailhead, you’ll notice that it is punctuated with various features. The imposing Awi Peak will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Along the trekking route, you will encounter stupas and tombstones, each carrying religious significance in the context of Buddhism. Further ahead, an uphill trekking trail will lead you to Chola Tsho, a serene lake, and you’ll cross the Chola Khola, a river, before reaching the small town of Dzongla.

The upper section of the trekking trail presents a challenging terrain; it is steep, rugged, and less maintained. As you ascend, you’ll encounter boulders, sharp curves, and a landscape dotted with colorful Buddhist prayer flags at the pass’s summit. This vantage point provides breathtaking views of iconic peaks, including the pyramidal shape of Ama Dablam, the towering Cholatse, Lobuche, and Baruntse. Descending from the pass, the trail will lead you to the Ngozumba Glacier and the stunning Gokyo Lake.

To savor the unparalleled beauty of the mountains, embark on a hike to Gokyo Ri, a remarkable viewpoint. This short but strenuous trek rewards you with an awe-inspiring mountain panorama. The 180-degree view of the mountains is nothing short of impressive, and witnessing the sunrise over the world’s four highest peaks is an unforgettable memory that you’ll cherish. After this breathtaking experience, return to Gokyo for breakfast and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, relaxing and relishing the memories you’ve created.

Today’s journey will treat you to the remarkable geological features of the Himalayas, showcasing the majestic peaks of Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, and Tawache, as well as the striking Rolwaling Ranges. The panoramic view from Gokyo Ri encompasses the Gokyo Lake, Gokyo Village, and the breathtaking Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake. From the summit, you’ll also be treated to a magnificent vista of the wild Bhote Kosi River. Descending, you’ll pass by several pristine lakes, including Longpongo, Taboche Tsho, and Dudh Pokhari. Along the way, you may even encounter Yak Caravans and relish the scenic beauty of the Bhote Koshi Valley. Your Everest Three High Passes Trek continues to amaze with its natural wonders.

Descend from your current location, and you’ll arrive in Thame, renowned for its centuries-old monastery that exudes a deep spiritual atmosphere. Here, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture. While Thame may not be a prominent stop for most trekkers, it offers a captivating view of Teng Kangpoche, Kwangde, and Nangpa-la. Follow the traditional trade route that has been used by merchants for generations, breaking for lunch along the way. You’ll once again cross the Bhote Koshi River, and your relatively straightforward trekking trail will lead you to Gompa, a captivating monastery. Finally, you’ll reach Namche, the largest village in the Everest region.

As you begin your descent, take a moment to retrace the steps you’ve covered on this incredible journey. It’s a time to reflect on the distance you’ve traveled, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the breathtaking beauty you’ve witnessed. Allow yourself to be overwhelmed by a sense of accomplishment and cherish this remarkable experience.

Before bidding farewell to the Everest Region, why not capture one last photo, a lasting memory of this iconic and incomparable region? The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring, and this final snapshot will be a cherished reminder of your adventure.

Continue your journey, passing through villages like Monjo and Phakding, as you make your way back to where you started this incredible trek. These familiar places may now hold a special significance, as you’ve become intimately acquainted with the landscape and culture of the Everest Region.

Your departure from Lukla marks the end of your Himalayan adventure. You’ll catch a morning flight back to Kathmandu, a journey that is sometimes subject to delays due to afternoon winds or adverse weather conditions. As you return to the bustling city, take this opportunity to indulge in the modern amenities and urban comforts that Kathmandu has to offer.

Stroll through the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub, and rediscover the elements of urban life that you may have missed during your time in the mountains. Treat your palate to the exquisite flavors of Nepali cuisine, savoring the diverse culinary offerings that Kathmandu boasts.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Nepali culture and tradition as you dine at a typical Nepali restaurant. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness captivating cultural dances that showcase the rich heritage of the country. It’s a perfect occasion to share the joy and experiences of your trekking adventure with fellow travelers.

As you bid farewell to Kathmandu, take with you not only the memories of the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes but also the vibrant spirit of this enchanting city. Your journey may be coming to a close, but the experiences and friendships you’ve gained will stay with you forever.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free conclusion to your Nepal adventure, a dedicated company representative will escort you to the airport in a comfortable private vehicle. This personalized service is designed to make your departure from Kathmandu as convenient and stress-free as possible. As you bid farewell to Nepal, you can reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences you’ve gathered during your journey in the Himalayas.