20 days / 19 nights

Available as A Private Booking

Photo credit: Sophie H.

The Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most immersive journeys into the heart of the Himalayas. This route follows the traditional Everest Base Camp trail while extending deeper into high mountain terrain via Khongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La—three scenic passes that connect remote valleys, Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and glacier-carved landscapes. Designed for avid trekkers seeking a fuller experience of the Khumbu region, this itinerary offers time to acclimatize, engage with local communities, and walk at a respectful and steady pace through environments shaped by centuries of culture and natural resilience. Each day reveals a new perspective—prayer flags fluttering over ridgelines, turquoise lakes beneath towering peaks, and quiet moments of reflection in high-altitude settlements. Rather than racing toward a destination, this journey invites travelers to slow down, deepen their awareness, and appreciate life in one of the world’s great mountain regions.

This trek is open only to FEMALE HIKERS and supports the mission of the non-profit human rights organization, The Porter Voice Collective (PVC), which advocates for Workforce Equity for porters in Peru, Nepal & Tanzania.

Read more about Workforce Equity via the following articles: One Step at a Time: Creating Workforce Equity for Porters, Workforce Equity for Porters: Why It Matters & Why Travel Companies Should Be An Ally?

THE PORTER VOICE COLLECTIVE

Collectively, we

Listen.

Celebrate.

Amplify.

Elevate.

The Porter Voice.

HIMALAYAN WOMEN TRAIL LEADERS initiative

In the Spring of 2024, we sponsored the first Nepali female guide to walk 100 plus days on the Himalayan Trail including the Everest Base Camp Trek as a way to elevate female guides in Nepal’s trekking tourism industry. You can learn more about the campaign via the GHT Women Leaders page. The second phase of the campaign, Himalayan Women Trail Leaders (HWTL), is the WINNER of the Launch Track at the 2024 Social Entrepreneurship Competition in Tourism. HWTL is in the process of developing an initiative that aims to provide female trekking guides with field training and support in the industry. By joining our treks, you are supporting our efforts to create gender equity in the industry. HWTL will provide consumers an online directory of all licensed female trekking guides in Nepal and a database that will match consumer needs and expectations with the right female trekking guide to create a meaningful exchange and travel experience. HWTL is a pioneer in designing long distance treks on the 1700-kilometer Himalayan Trail led by female trekking guides, born out of the 100 plus days of scouting the Himalayan Trail. Part of this experience is to give consumers the opportunity to do supported long distance treks on the 1700-kilometer Himalayan Trail which we customize for you for a successful trekking experience. For long distance treks on the Himalayan Trail, email us at equity@browngaltrekker.com.

ITINERARY

DAY 1 Arrival in Kathmandu

You can arrive in Kathmandu anytime on the first day. Transport is provided to your hotel. You have free day to explore the city. You will do your trek briefing and gear check in the afternoon/evening.

DAY 2 Flight to Lukla. Hike to Phakding (8,563 feet / 2,610 meters).

Today is the start of our legendary trip. You may have to wake up early for a drive to the airport to catch your flight to Lukla. Flying into the famous Tenzin Hillary airport is a thrilling experience in itself. You can see the small airstrip sprawled out in front of you as you bend around green hills. Lukla feels fascinating. You can smell the incense in the air, see yaks and donkeys all while smelling some real good coffee and walking through the bustling streets. As soon as you exit Lukla, it’s a whole different place. You pass prayer wheels and lush green forests. You cross a big suspension bridge just before you reach the Phakding village. Take time to explore the village or relax in the common room.

(NOTE: In the spring, you may have to fly via Ramecchap airport which requires a 4-hour drive to and from Kathmandu).

Hiking time: 4 hours

DAY 3 Phakding to Namche Bazaar (11,290 feet / 3,440 meters)

Get some good hearty breakfast as you have a big day today. The trail to Namche Bazaar is one of the most iconic and strenuous ones on the trip. You pass a check point at Monjo where we enter the Sagarmatha National Park. You will cross the Dudhkoshi river, the highest of the world several times and stop for lunch at Jorsalle. Enjoy lunch beside the rapid water. You walk through pine forests where we may get a glimpse of the Mt. Thamserku (6608m) if the weather permits. Once you reach the clearing on the top of the hill, you can see the gateway to the Everest. Namche Bazaar is a horse shoe shaped town which is right in front of the Kongde Ri peak. Settle into your room and entertain yourself with the view.

Hiking time: 7 hours

DAY 4 Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (11,290 feet / 3,440 meters)

As you gain altitude, it’s important that we take time to adjust and prevent altitude sickness. So, we will have an acclimatization day at Namche. This village has a lot to offer. From souvenir shops to cafes and bars, you can find almost anything here. You can choose to rest and explore the village or hike up to the Everest view hotel which is an hour away and enjoy the panoramic Himalayan view. There is also a Sherpa museum and Buddhist monasteries if you are up for it.

DAY 5 Namche Bazaar to Deboche (12,533 feet / 3,820 meters)

Feeling refreshed after acclimatizing, you’ll enjoy a mostly gentle trail today. Passing through Kyangjuma and Phunke Tenga, the path follows dense forest along the Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, you may spot deer, Lophophorus (the national bird of Nepal), white monkeys, and other wildlife. After reaching Tengboche—where many stay overnight—you’ll continue to Deboche.
Hiking time: 6 hours

DAY 6 Deboche to Dingboche (14,469 feet / 4410 meters)
After breakfast, you’ll head toward Pangboche, the largest settlement in the region. Enjoy views of mountain goats and, in spring, blooming rhododendron forests. Continue past Somare adorned with prayer flags before ascending through more barren landscapes to reach Dingboche. Depending on the time of the year, you will get to see the Rhododendron, Nepal’s national flower in pink, white and red in all its glory. If you are lucky, you may also spot the Danphe, Nepal’s national bird adorned with multicolored feathers. A perfect trail to take pictures and to charge your solar batteries. As you move towards Dingboche, the terrain becomes increasingly barren and you ascend above the tree lines. The houses are made of stones and wood with stonewall fences. The teahouses are usually family owned. You can enjoy some warm soup and popcorn near the heater and interact with the lovely locals.

Hiking time: 5 hours

DAY 7 Rest Day in Dingboche (14,469 feet/ 4,410 meters)
Today is a rest and acclimatization day. You may hike up Nagkartshang Hill for panoramic views, explore the village, or simply relax.

DAY 8 Dingboche to Chhukung (15,518 feet / 4,730 meters)
A short and gentle trek awaits as you ascend gradually above the Imja Khola to reach Chhukung. From here, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Makalu (5th highest mountain in the world), Cholatse, Island Peak, Baruntse, and more.
Hiking time: 4 hours

DAY 9 Chhukung to Khongma La Pass (18,192 feet / 5,545 meters), then to Lobuche (16,109 feet / 4,910meters)
Today is your first major challenge as you cross Khongma La Pass (5545 m). Make sure your gear and crampons are ready! The trail leads past the Nuptse and Khumbu Glaciers, adorned with prayer flags. After reaching the pass, you’ll descend to Lobuche. Though demanding, the breathtaking views make it worthwhile.
Hiking time: 8 hours or more depending on hiker’s pace

DAY 10 Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (17,598 feet / 5,364 meters), then to Gorakshep (16,864 feet / 5,140 meters)
A long but rewarding day! Trek via Pyramid (4970 m) and Lobuche Pass (5110 m), with views of glacial moraines. Upon reaching Gorakshep, continue toward Everest Base Camp where you’ll pass the Khumbu Glacier and witness the dramatic Khumbu Icefall. After soaking in the scenery and taking photos, return to Gorakshep for the night

Hiking time: 7 hours or more depending on hiker’s pace

DAY 11 Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (18,208 feet / 5,550 meters), then to Dzongla (15,846 feet / 4,830 meters)
Start early to ascend Kala Patthar for panoramic sunrise views of Everest and surrounding peaks. After descending, trek back to Lobuche and continue across streams and grassy hills to reach Dzongla.

Hiking time: 7 hours

DAY 12 Dzongla to Dragnag (15,420 feet / 4,700 meters) via Cho La Pass (17,782 feet /5,420 meters)
After breakfast, pass Lobuche Base Camp before ascending toward Cho La Pass. The path is steep and rocky, with glacier sections as you enter Cho La Valley. After reaching the pass, descend carefully to Dragnag for the night.

Hiking time: 6 hours or more depending on hiker’s pace

DAY 13 Dragnag to Gokyo (15,584 feet /4,750 meters)
A shorter trek today as you follow the trail alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier to reach Gokyo. The stunning turquoise waters of Gokyo Lake (Gokyo Tsho) await you.

Hiking time: 3 hours

DAY 14 Gokyo Ri Ascent (17,575 feet / 5,357 meters) and Return to Gokyo (15,584 feet / 4,750 meters)
Climb to Gokyo Ri (5357 m) for one of the best viewpoints in the region. From the summit, you’ll see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. After enjoying the view, return to Gokyo..

Hiking time: 5 hours or more depending on hiker’s pace

DAY 15 Gokyo to Lumde (13,572 feet / 4137 meters) via Renjo La Pass (17,585 feet / 5,360 meters)
Trek toward Renjo La Pass on a rocky trail. After crossing the pass, continue along a scenic route passing Angladumba Tsho, Reloma Tsho, and Renjo Lake. As you approach the Thame side, the trail widens, descending alongside the Bhote Koshi River to reach Lumde.

Hiking time: 7 hours or more depending on hiker’s pace

DAY 16 Lumde to Thame (12,467 feet / 3,800 meters)
Descend gradually toward Marulung along the Bhote Koshi River, passing several villages. The trail is decorated with gompas and shrines, adding cultural richness to your journey.

Hiking time: 4 hours

DAY 17 Thame to Jorsalle (9,662 feet / 2,945 meters)
Continue downhill toward Namche Bazaar, passing stupas and villages along the way. From Namche, you will descend further to Jorsalle.
Hiking time: 6 hours

DAY 18 Jorsalle to Lukla (9,383 feet / 2,860 meters)
Retrace your steps through Monjo and Phakding, passing familiar villages before arriving in Lukla for your final night in the Everest region.
Hiking time: 6 hours

DAY 19 Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (or Ramechapp) and return to your hotel in the city as you enjoy a well-deserved rest.

DAY 20 Fly home.

You will be taken to the airport to catch your flight home.

Note: The hiking times above are estimates. The actual hiking time will depend on hiker’s pace.

TREK STYLE

This is a STRENUOUS trek. Recent hiking and/or backpacking experience is highly recommended. You will need to prepare for a cardio workout and consult with your doctor before joining the trip given the high altitude. You will be required to familiarize yourself with the hazards and risks of high-altitude trekking and sign a liability waiver and terms & conditions forms. However, this is a supported trek; hence, you only carry a daypack with your essentials (porters are hired to carry your belongings). You will be staying in teahouses each night.

Important Reminder: Please review the itinerary in full to determine if the acclimatization days are sufficient for your abilities and experience as a hiker. As a willing participant, you will be fully responsible for knowing your ability as a hiker at high altitude. Please note our trekking guides are NOT licensed doctors. They are trained to address wilderness first-aid situations and get you to safety; hence, we encourage honest and clear communication with your guide regarding your health and progress each day to prevent any crisis.

Check out our webinar, HIGH ALTITUDE TREKKING: PREP, SAFETY + TEAMWORK for some tips to prepare you for this trek!

pricing

Per person for a group of 2-12 people: $ 3450

Solo trekking is possible at additional cost.

Note: Pricing may change if you wish to reduce or add more days to the itinerary for acclimatization purposes.

HOW TO JOIN

You must fill out an application form and send the deposit of $950.

The trip balance is due 60 days before the departure date.
For solo hotel and/or teahouse stays, a single supplement fee applies.

Private tours with your date of choice are available upon request.

For questions, send us an email at equity@browngaltrekker.com.
Please read the TERMS & CONDITIONS and LIABILITY WAIVER before booking.

Click on BOOK NOW to reserve your spot!

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INCLUSIONS

All airport transfers.
2 nights hotel stay in Kathmandu with breakfast
Round trip domestic flight to and from Lukla.
Round trip domestic flight for the guide (and assistant guide if applicable) to and from Lukla.
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch & dinner).
All teahouse accommodations during the trek.
Guide and porter salaries.
Guide and porter insurance.
Assistant guide salary & insurance for a bigger group.
National Park entry fee.
First-Aid Kit.
Equipment for staff.
All trekking permit fees.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Trip informational & preparational meetings prior to your trip departure.
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare.
Visa fee.
Laundry and dry-cleaning services.
Water, beverages & snacks outside of the itinerary (e.g. soda and alcoholic drinks, fees for charging phones, shower etc are excluded on the trek)
Tips for guides and porters.
Internet and phone services.
Travel & medical insurance.
Non-scheduled meals outside of the trek (e.g. in Kathmandu)
Trekking equipment (available as rentals).
Any other expenses outside of the scheduled itinerary.

GEAR LIST The gear list will be provided to confirmed participants. Note that the gear list is comprehensive and covers all seasons as weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable.

FLIGHTS

International flights are excluded. You must fly to Kathmandu Airport from your home country. Clients must book their own flights and send a copy of their flight itinerary by e-mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

After making a deposit, you are required to obtain appropriate travel and medical evacuation insurance through Global Rescue. Proof of travel insurance must be provided via electronic mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date. Failure to obtain travel insurance by the trip balance due date will result in cancellation and no refund of your trip deposit and/or applicable cancellation fees as noted in the Terms & Conditions.

Note: If you opt to buy your insurance from a company other than what we recommend, please ensure that the insurance you purchase covers high-altitude trekking as there is a limited number of companies that provides such type of coverage.

VISA & VACCINATIONS

Please check ahead of time as to the visa requirements. You are responsible for securing your own visa if required. Check the CDC website for up-to-date information on vaccine requirements.

COVID-19 TRAVEL CONDITIONS

Please consult with the U.S. State Department, the CDC website, or the website of your embassy for up-to-date information on travel.

TRIP NOTES

Upon booking, you will receive trip notes that include the recommended gear list and specific trek information.

Everest 3 Passes Trek - WOMEN ONLY (20 DAYS)