Explore on an extraordinary Himalayan adventure with Asiana Treks & Tours as you conquer the Everest Three High Passes Trek — a legendary journey that leads you across three of the most breathtaking and challenging mountain passes in the Everest region: Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m). This trek is designed for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, raw adventure, and panoramic views that go beyond the popular Everest Base Camp route. With our experienced guides, carefully curated itinerary, and commitment to safety and local culture, Asiana Treks & Tours ensures that your journey is both thrilling and enriching.
Traversing the Three High Passes offers an immersive experience into the heart of the Khumbu, taking you through remote valleys, traditional Sherpa villages, and majestic glaciers. You'll visit iconic locations such as Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar while also venturing off the beaten path. Unlike standard treks, this circuit demands acclimatization, physical endurance, and a passion for exploration — making it one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal.
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is one of Nepal’s most adventurous and scenic trekking routes. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trail, this trek forms a challenging loop that crosses three dramatic high mountain passes — Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m). These passes connect remote valleys, traditional Sherpa villages, glacial basins, and iconic viewpoints, offering an unparalleled way to experience the Everest region.
The trek is best suited for trekkers with good physical fitness, some prior altitude experience, and a strong spirit of adventure. While not a technical climb, it does require endurance, careful acclimatization, and proper gear. Asiana Treks & Tours recommends this trek for those looking to go beyond the popular trails and immerse themselves in the raw, high-altitude beauty of the Himalayas. Here’s an introduction to each of the three high passes:
Introduction to Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)
Renjo La Pass is often the first of the three high passes that trekkers tackle, coming from the western valley near the Sherpa village of Thame and heading toward Gokyo Lakes. This pass is known for its relatively gradual ascent and the peaceful, less-crowded trail that offers spectacular mountain views. The climb itself is demanding but steady, passing through yak pastures, alpine landscapes, and traditional stone-built villages.
At the summit of Renjo La, you’re rewarded with an unforgettable panorama of some of the world’s tallest peaks — including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Below lies the shimmering turquoise chain of the Gokyo Lakes, an iconic sight in Nepal. This pass is a favorite among trekkers who want solitude, natural beauty, and a smoother introduction to high-altitude trekking.
Introduction to Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
Cho La Pass is the most dramatic and physically demanding of the three passes. After exploring the Gokyo region, trekkers approach this pass via Thangnak, preparing for a steep and icy ascent that sometimes involves crossing snowfields or scrambling over rocks. Cho La links the Gokyo Valley to the classic Everest Base Camp trail via Dzongla, making it a crucial connector on the Three Passes circuit.
The top of the pass is flanked by glacial ice and surrounded by peaks like Cholatse and Lobuche East. Despite the effort required to reach it, the views and the sense of accomplishment make it a highlight of the trek. Trekkers should be prepared for cold winds and variable weather conditions, and it's highly recommended to cross early in the day. With expert guidance from Asiana Treks & Tours, this challenging pass becomes an unforgettable experience, combining thrill and natural grandeur.
Introduction to Kongma La Pass (5,535 m)
Kongma La Pass is the highest and most secluded of the three passes. It lies between the Lobuche area (near Everest Base Camp) and Chhukhung in the Imja Valley. This route is typically tackled last, after visiting Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, when trekkers are better acclimatized. Unlike the other two, Kongma La does not have tea houses along the trail, making it essential to start early and carry enough food and water.
Despite its remoteness, Kongma La offers unmatched views over the Khumbu Glacier, the Nuptse wall, and the surrounding Himalayan giants. It’s the most rugged and wild section of the entire trek, often requiring navigation through loose rocks and snowy terrain. Successfully crossing Kongma La is the ultimate badge of honor for any trekker on this route, and Asiana Treks & Tours ensures it is done safely and memorably, with full support and preparation.
Trekking the Everest Three Passes is more than just a hike — it’s an immersive journey into the soul of the Himalayas. For seasoned adventurers and passionate trekkers, this route stands out as the ultimate Himalayan experience, combining challenge, isolation, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, which often follows a direct and more frequented path, the Three Passes Trek forms a demanding circular route that traverses three high-altitude passes: Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m).
What makes this trek so exceptional is its diversity — each day brings something new. From the mystical Gokyo Lakes and the windswept plains of Thame, to the ice-laden crossing of Cho La and the lunar-like landscapes of Kongma La, every section is rich in both natural wonder and cultural depth. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient monasteries, Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, and dramatic glacier crossings. The route offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam, while keeping you far from the crowded trails of more commercialized treks.
But it's not just about the views — it's about testing your limits. At over 5,000 meters on each pass, this trek demands endurance, acclimatization, and mental grit. That’s why many call it the most comprehensive and rewarding trek in the Everest region. With the expert guidance and local knowledge provided by Asiana Treks & Tours, trekkers are fully supported every step of the way — from logistics and safety to cultural engagement and scenic exploration.
In short, the Everest Three Passes Trek isn't just a route — it's a personal journey through the beating heart of the Himalayas, offering the kind of depth, authenticity, and adventure that few treks in the world can match.
The journey across Renjo La Pass begins with a tranquil ascent from the serene village of Thame, passing through ancient trade routes that once connected Tibet and Nepal. Renjo La offers a quieter, more peaceful alternative to the heavily trafficked trails of the Khumbu. As you ascend the pass, you’re treated to some of the most stunning views in the Himalayas, with panoramic vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the shimmering Gokyo Lakes spread out below. The silence of this route, combined with the pristine alpine scenery, makes Renjo La a deeply spiritual and awe-inspiring part of the journey.
Crossing Renjo La is both challenging and rewarding, with a steep climb to the summit and a careful descent to the Gokyo Valley. This section of the trek offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and high-altitude wilderness, far from the crowds. The descent into the Gokyo region introduces trekkers to the famous turquoise lakes, particularly Gokyo Lake (Dudh Pokhari), and the chance to ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for a jaw-dropping sunrise view over four of the world’s tallest peaks. With Asiana Treks & Tours, you'll have ample time to rest and acclimatize in this magical location before continuing the circuit.
Renjo La Pass: Discover Renjo La — The Hidden Gem of the Everest Region
Tucked away from the busier trails of the Everest region, Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) is a breathtaking and often overlooked highlight of the Himalayas. Unlike the more commercialized routes to Everest Base Camp, Renjo La offers a quieter, more spiritual path into the high mountains. It is part of the Everest Three Passes circuit, but even on its own, this pass can be the crown jewel of any Himalayan adventure.
Approaching from Thame, a traditional Sherpa village steeped in culture and history, the route to Renjo La winds through ancient yak pastures, peaceful alpine valleys, and untouched landscapes. As you ascend, you’ll feel the quiet power of the mountains growing around you. The pass itself opens to a panorama that rivals any viewpoint in Nepal — revealing Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu alongside the shimmering turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes. It’s a moment of awe and solitude that many trekkers miss — and one that leaves a lasting impression.
Renjo La Pass: A Serene Route to Everest Views
Renjo La is considered by many seasoned trekkers to be one of the most scenic and peaceful passes in the Khumbu region. While Everest Base Camp draws the crowds, Renjo La provides a more meditative and less crowded experience. The trail is well-defined but challenging enough to feel like a genuine adventure, with high-altitude terrain and steady climbs that reward you at every turn.
From the top of the pass, you’ll see not only Everest and neighboring giants but also the beautiful sprawl of Gokyo village and its surrounding lakes below. It’s a surreal perspective — high above the landscape yet still immersed in its grandeur. Because the route connects with Gokyo and eventually merges into the Everest Base Camp trail (via Cho La), it’s an ideal way to combine tranquility with iconic Himalayan landmarks.
Renjo La for First-Timers: What You Should Know
For those new to high-altitude trekking, Renjo La Pass is a fantastic introduction to the more adventurous side of the Everest region — provided it’s approached with the right preparation. While the trail is less technically demanding than other high passes like Cho La or Kongma La, it still sits above 5,000 meters and requires proper acclimatization. Asiana Treks & Tours typically recommends spending time in Namche Bazaar and Thame before the ascent to adjust gradually to the elevation.
It’s essential to trek with proper gear — including warm clothing, sturdy boots, and sun protection — and to pace yourself, especially as you near the summit. Weather can shift quickly, and cold winds are common at higher altitudes. The good news is that the route is less exposed than others and doesn’t require crossing glaciers, making it more manageable for well-prepared first-timers. With experienced guides from Asiana Treks & Tours leading the way, you’ll have the confidence and support needed to make your first high pass crossing both safe and unforgettable.
Terrain & Difficulty
Renjo La is the first of the three passes trekkers will encounter in the Everest Three Passes Trek, and it’s considered the least difficult of the three. The trail is less rugged than Cho La or Kongma La, with a gradual ascent that is manageable for most trekkers. The rocky and grassy terrain along the way is interspersed with pastoral settings and small Sherpa villages, offering a more peaceful environment as you make your way up.
While the altitude can still affect some trekkers, it’s generally a gentler introduction to high-altitude trekking compared to the other two passes. However, trekkers should still be cautious and acclimatize properly before attempting the pass.
Scenery & Views
The views from Renjo La are breathtaking. From the summit, trekkers are treated to a panoramic vista of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, along with the beautiful Gokyo Lakes below. The pass offers solitude and a sense of calm, with fewer trekkers on this route, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the serene beauty of the Everest region away from the crowds.
Best For
The crossing of Cho La Pass presents one of the most dramatic and technical sections of the Everest Three Passes Trek. After exploring Gokyo, trekkers follow the path toward Thangnak and begin the climb up to Cho La. This high-altitude pass involves traversing a glacier, navigating icy paths, and scrambling over rocks — a true alpine adventure that demands both physical and mental strength. With Asiana Treks & Tours, safety is our priority, and our guides are well-equipped to assist trekkers through the more demanding terrain, offering both encouragement and expert navigation.
At the top of Cho La, the effort pays off spectacularly. You are surrounded by a world of ice, snow, and towering peaks such as Cholatse and Taboche, standing like silent sentinels over the Himalayas. The descent into the Dzongla valley is equally stunning, winding past frozen waterfalls and pristine mountain ridges. This segment of the trek not only connects you to the classic Everest Base Camp trail but also exemplifies the raw beauty and unpredictability of the high Himalayas. After crossing Cho La, trekkers can rest and reflect in quieter villages before continuing toward Lobuche and Everest Base Camp.
Cho La Pass: Crossing Cho La Pass — Ice, Challenge, and Beauty
The Cho La Pass (5,420 m) is one of the most thrilling and physically demanding segments of the Everest Three Passes Trek. Known for its glacier-covered terrain, steep climbs, and unpredictable weather, this high-altitude pass is not for the faint of heart, but it rewards trekkers with some of the most spectacular views in the Everest region.
The journey to Cho La is marked by a series of steep ascents, where trekkers face rocky terrain, snowfields, and the occasional glacial crossing. These conditions demand both mental and physical endurance, but once at the summit, you’re greeted by an awe-inspiring panorama of Everest, Lhotse, and Cholatse — towering peaks that seem to rise from the earth itself. The descent toward Dzongla on the other side of the pass offers an entirely different landscape, where the rugged mountains give way to deep valleys and alpine meadows. Cho La is often considered a defining experience for those on the Everest Three Passes Trek, combining the raw beauty of nature with the personal challenge of high-altitude trekking.
A Quick Guide to Cho La: The Glacier-Covered Everest Pass
Cho La Pass is one of the most technically demanding passes on the Everest Three High Passes Trek, requiring trekkers to navigate snowy, icy terrain and glacial landscapes. The pass links the Gokyo Valley with the Everest Base Camp trail and offers an important connection between these two iconic destinations.
Before the ascent, trekkers typically start from Thangnak, a small settlement near the Gokyo Lakes. The path gradually leads to the base of the pass, where the steep climb begins in earnest. The conditions here can vary depending on the season, but snow and ice are common, especially in the early mornings, so trekkers need to be prepared for both rocky scrambles and slippery ice. To successfully cross Cho La, it’s important to bring microspikes, crampons, and poles to maintain grip and stability on icy sections. While the summit may seem distant during the climb, the views from the top of Cho La make the effort worthwhile — offering a stunning vista over the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding peaks.
After the summit, the descent toward Dzongla presents its own set of challenges, as trekkers navigate a steep, rocky trail with loose rocks and slippery patches. However, the journey is made easier with the guidance of experienced trekkers and support from Asiana Treks & Tours, ensuring safety every step of the way.
Cho La Pass: Connecting Gokyo and Everest Base Camp
One of the most significant aspects of Cho La Pass is its role as a link between two of the most famous trekking routes in Nepal: the Gokyo Lakes trek and the Everest Base Camp trek. After spending time exploring the tranquil Gokyo Lakes and soaking in the incredible views from Gokyo Ri, trekkers face the challenge of crossing Cho La to connect with the Everest Base Camp trail.
This section of the trek is a unique combination of high-altitude adventure and cultural exploration. While trekking through the pass, you’ll encounter remote villages, including Dzongla, and gain access to the iconic Lobuche before reaching Everest Base Camp itself. Cho La offers a different perspective on the region, moving trekkers from the serene beauty of the Gokyo area to the more well-known Everest circuit. Not only does this crossing offer incredible views, but it also adds a sense of accomplishment and adventure, linking two of the most significant destinations in the Everest region.
For those trekking with Asiana Treks & Tours, the Cho La Pass is expertly planned to ensure safe passage and sufficient time for acclimatization. Our guides provide the necessary experience, support, and insights to make this stunning pass both enjoyable and safe, helping you navigate the challenging terrain with ease.
Terrain & Difficulty
Cho La Pass is the most technical and physically demanding of the three passes. The trail features steep ascents and requires navigating snowfields, glacial terrain, and rocky paths, making it more difficult to cross. Depending on the time of year, snow and ice conditions can significantly increase the level of difficulty, and microspikes or crampons may be necessary to ensure safety while crossing the icy sections.
Unlike Renjo La, the altitude at Cho La is higher, and the weather can be more unpredictable, adding a layer of challenge. The descent from Cho La is steep and rocky, requiring trekkers to be careful with their footing.
Scenery & Views
Cho La offers stunning panoramic views of the Khumbu region, including towering peaks such as Cholatse, Lhotse, and Makalu. The pass also offers a dramatic view of the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding valleys. The sheer scale of the landscape from the top is overwhelming, and the sense of adventure when crossing Cho La is hard to beat.
Best For
Saving the highest and most remote for last, Kongma La Pass is the crown jewel of the Everest Three High Passes Trek. This formidable mountain pass lies between the Lobuche and Chhukhung valleys and is the most secluded of the three. The ascent to Kongma La is a true test of endurance, featuring a steep climb through rocky terrain and a ridge that offers uninterrupted views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the Khumbu Glacier. There are no lodges on the route, making it essential to start early and be well-prepared — a task Asiana Treks & Tours handles meticulously through careful planning and acclimatization.
From the top of Kongma La, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a powerful sense of achievement. The descent into Chhukhung is equally dramatic, offering views into the Imja Valley and access to optional hikes like Island Peak Base Camp. The successful completion of Kongma La symbolizes the culmination of one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, combining adventure, isolation, and epic beauty. With Asiana Treks & Tours, every step is supported by a team that prioritizes your comfort, safety, and authentic cultural encounters.
Kongma La Pass: The Highest and Most Remote of the Three Passes
At 5,535 meters, Kongma La Pass stands as the highest and most remote of the three passes in the Everest Three High Passes Trek. Nestled between the Lobuche and Chhukhung valleys, Kongma La offers trekkers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey through the heart of the Khumbu region. While it doesn’t draw the crowds that Everest Base Camp or Cho La do, this pass delivers a sense of wild adventure and achievement that few others can match.
The trek to Kongma La is remote, often traversing rugged terrain with no lodges or facilities along the route. This means trekkers must be self-sufficient and prepared for a journey into a less-traveled part of the Himalayas. As you approach the pass, you’ll be treated to a landscape that feels more untouched, with few signs of human activity except for the occasional yak herder and the distant sound of wind. Once at the top of Kongma La, the panoramic views are absolutely breathtaking. From the summit, you’ll see a stunning array of peaks, including Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, and you’ll feel the extraordinary solitude that comes with being surrounded by such immense, unspoiled natural beauty.
Is Kongma La Pass Right for You? What to Expect
Kongma La Pass is the most technically challenging and physically demanding of the three high passes. It requires trekkers to have a strong level of fitness, previous experience at high altitudes, and the ability to tackle rugged, sometimes unstable terrain. The trail is steep, often rocky, and at times, the snow can create slippery conditions, making careful footing essential. While it’s not a technical climb that requires ropes or mountaineering skills, the altitude and physical exertion involved in crossing Kongma La can be strenuous for many trekkers.
For those with the right preparation and mindset, however, Kongma La offers a reward like no other. The pass provides some of the best views of the Everest region, and the sense of accomplishment upon crossing it is immense. It’s the final high pass on the Everest Three Passes Trek and serves as both the climax and the culmination of the adventure. Asiana Treks & Tours ensures that trekkers are properly acclimatized and well-supported throughout this part of the journey, with expert guides leading the way and managing the logistics. You’ll be encouraged to take your time, rest when needed, and prepare thoroughly for the crossing.
Trekking Over Kongma La: A Path Less Traveled
Kongma La offers a unique sense of solitude compared to the more popular routes in the Everest region. This section of the Everest Three Passes Trek is less traveled, meaning you’ll be trekking in the wilderness, surrounded by towering peaks and the serene landscapes of the Khumbu Glacier and Imja Valley. The trail to Kongma La begins in Lobuche, one of the major stopping points for Everest Base Camp trekkers. From there, trekkers ascend through barren, rocky terrain, passing through scattered herders' camps and quiet mountain lakes as they make their way toward the pass.
Once at the summit, the feeling of isolation is palpable — you are standing at one of the highest points in the world, with panoramic views of some of the world’s most iconic peaks, including Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Everest itself in the distance. The descent from Kongma La leads trekkers down into the Chhukhung Valley, where the landscape shifts to alpine meadows and small Sherpa villages. Here, trekkers can catch their breath and reflect on the journey, enjoying the incredible sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the highest of the Three Passes.
Though Kongma La is remote and challenging, it provides a truly authentic experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. It’s a perfect destination for trekkers seeking adventure, solitude, and a deep connection with the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Terrain & Difficulty
Kongma La Pass is the highest and most remote of the three passes. This pass presents a challenging trek through rugged, rocky terrain, and the trail can be more isolated compared to the other two. The ascent to Kongma La is steep, and the high-altitude environment can make the climb feel strenuous, especially as you approach the pass. The conditions are less predictable here — snow and ice can make certain sections slippery, and there are fewer teahouses or settlements along the way, making it a more self-sufficient trek.
The altitude at Kongma La is the highest of the three passes, so proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. This pass is best suited for trekkers with good physical fitness and a level of experience in navigating high-altitude terrain.
Scenery & Views
At the summit of Kongma La, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Khumbu Glacier and the surrounding peaks, including Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Everest. The route also provides dramatic landscapes of alpine meadows and rocky ridges, creating a wild and untouched environment that is much less visited than the other passes.
Best For
| Criteria | Renjo La | Cho La | Kongma La |
| Altitude | 5,360 m | 5,420 m | 5,535 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate (gentle ascent) | High (steep, icy, technical) | Very High (remote, rocky) |
| Terrain | Grassy, rocky, Sherpa villages | Glacial, snowfields, rocky | Rugged, alpine meadows, rocky |
| Scenery | Views of Everest & Gokyo | Panoramic views of peaks | Stunning views of Everest & Ama Dablam |
| Crowds | Less crowded | Moderate | Very few trekkers |
| Best For | First-timers, nature lovers | Experienced trekkers, adventurers | Experienced trekkers, solitude seekers |
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