Everest Three Pass trek with Island Peak climbing
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Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing

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  • Region/DestinationNepal
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About Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing

The Three Pass Trek with Island Peak Climbing is one of Nepal's most rewarding Himalayan adventures, combining the legendary Everest Three High Passes Trek with the exciting ascent of Island Peak (6,189 m). Designed for experienced trekkers and aspiring climbers, this expedition offers the perfect blend of high-altitude trekking, mountaineering, and unforgettable Himalayan scenery.

Unlike the classic Everest Base Camp Trek, this journey follows a spectacular circuit through the entire Khumbu region, crossing the three iconic passes—Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m)—before culminating in the summit of Island Peak. Along the way, you'll travel through traditional Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, alpine valleys, glaciers, and the breathtaking landscapes of Sagarmatha National Park.

The adventure begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and gradually ascends through the Dudh Koshi Valley to Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. From there, the route heads into the quieter western Khumbu, crossing Renjo La into the beautiful Gokyo Valley, home to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, and the famous Gokyo Ri viewpoint. The expedition then continues over the challenging Cho La Pass to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m), offering breathtaking close-up views of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks.

Crossing the remote Kongma La Pass leads into the Chhukung Valley, where climbers prepare for the ascent of Island Peak. The climb includes glacier travel, fixed ropes, and snow slopes, making it an ideal introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. From the summit, climbers are rewarded with spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Baruntse, and countless Himalayan giants.

Beyond the mountains, the expedition also offers an authentic cultural experience through the homeland of the Sherpa people, with visits to centuries-old monasteries, colorful prayer flags, Buddhist stupas, and welcoming mountain villages.

Whether you aim to complete Nepal's famous Three High Passes, stand at Everest Base Camp, summit your first 6,000-meter peak, or prepare for future high-altitude expeditions, the Three Pass Trek with Island Peak Climbing offers one of the most complete and unforgettable adventures in the Himalayas.

Major Attractions

Island Peak (6,189 m)

Island Peak, locally known as Imja Tse, is Nepal's most popular trekking peak and an excellent introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. The climb involves glacier travel, fixed ropes, and a rewarding summit ridge offering magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Baruntse, and the surrounding Himalayan giants.

Three High Passes (Renjo La, Cho La & Kongma La)

Crossing the Three High Passes—Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m)—is the ultimate highlight of this expedition and one of the finest trekking experiences in the Everest region. Each pass offers a unique adventure through rugged mountain trails, glacier crossings, and remote alpine landscapes while completing a spectacular circuit of the Khumbu.

Renjo La rewards trekkers with magnificent views of the Gokyo Lakes and the Himalayan giants, Cho La provides an exciting glacier crossing connecting Gokyo with Everest Base Camp, and Kongma La—the highest of the three—offers dramatic scenery, pristine glacial landscapes, and panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks. Together, these iconic passes deliver an unforgettable blend of challenge, breathtaking scenery, and adventure before the expedition culminates with the ascent of Island Peak (6,189 m).

Gokyo Lakes

The sacred Gokyo Lakes are among Nepal's highest freshwater lake systems. Their crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and glaciers, create one of the most picturesque landscapes in the Himalayas.

Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)

Often considered one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region, Gokyo Ri offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Ngozumpa Glacier, and the entire Gokyo Valley.

Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)

Standing at the base of the world's highest mountain is an unforgettable experience. During the climbing season, colorful expedition camps line the Khumbu Glacier, creating an exciting mountaineering atmosphere.

Kala Patthar (5,545 m)

The highest of the Three Passes, Kongma La offers a remote and adventurous crossing with spectacular views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering Himalayan peaks.

Namche Bazaar

Known as the gateway to Everest, Namche Bazaar is the vibrant Sherpa capital of the Khumbu region. Visitors can explore mountain museums, local bakeries, trekking shops, monasteries, and lively markets.

Sherpa Culture & Himalayan Heritage

Throughout the trek you'll experience the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, visit centuries-old monasteries, prayer walls, colorful chortens, and traditional Himalayan villages rich in Buddhist culture.

Highlights

  • Summit Island Peak (6,189 m) with experienced climbing guides
  • Cross the famous Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La high passes
  • Visit the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
  • Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for the finest sunrise views of Mount Everest
  • Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) overlooking the beautiful Gokyo Lakes
  • Experience the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes
  • Explore traditional Sherpa villages including Namche Bazaar, Thame, Pangboche, and Chhukung
  • Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and experience Sherpa culture
  • Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Pumori, and countless Himalayan peaks
  • Guided by experienced Sherpa climbing guides with full climbing support

Itinerary

Outline ItineraryDetails Itinerary
  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1320m)
  • Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing & Trip Preparation
  • Day 03: Fly from Manthali/ Kathmandu to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2610m)
  • Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar(3440m)
  • Day 05: Acclimatization Day (3440m)
  • Day 06: Namche to Thame(3800m) 4-5 hrs
  • Day 07: Thame to Lungden (4380m) 4-5 hrs
  • Day 08: Lungden to Gokyo(4800m) via Ranjo La Pass (5360m) 7-8 hrs
  • Day 09: Hike to Gokyo Ri(5357m) & Trek to Thagnak (4750m) 6-7hrs
  • Day 10: Trek from Thagnak(4700m) to Dzongla (4855m) via Cho La Pass(5420m) 6-7 hrs
  • Day 11: Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4910m) 3-4 hours
  • Day 12: Trek to Everest Base Camp(5364m) & Descend to Gorak Shep (5185m) 7-8 hrs
  • Day 13: Hike to Kalapathar (5545m) trek, back to Lobuche 4-5 hr
  • Day 14: Cross Kongma-La Pass (5535m) & trek to Chhukung 7-8 hrs
  • Day 15: Acclimatization Hike to Chukkung Ri(5550m)
  • Day 16: Trek from Chukkung to Island Peak Base Camp(4970m) 3-4hrs
  • Day 17: Summit Island peak & Descend back to Chukkung(4730m)
  • Day 18: Descend to Pangboche Village (3930m) 5-6hrs
  • Day 19: Retrace to Namche Bazaar 5-6hrs
  • Day 20: Descend back to Lukla (6-7hrs)
  • Day 21: Fly from Lukla to Kathmanndu, Farewell dinner
  • Day 22: Final Departure

A warm welcome to mountainous country, Nepal. Our representative will be standby to greet you upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome and assist you to transfer to your hotel. After your refreshment time in hotel, we will meet again in the evening for a welcome dinner during which you can savor authentic Nepali cuisine and get a briefing from our climbing leader about the adventure that lies ahead.

    Today is the leisure day for you to explore Kathmandu Valley. You can go sightseeing UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Bauddhanath, Swyambhunath, Pasupatinath, Durbar Squares of Patan, Bhaktapur and Kathmandu (Hanuman dhoka). 

    Our trekking leaders will meet you in the hotel and check your trekking and climbing equipment and their conditions and suggest you buy or rent the necessary kits from the trekking shops in Thamel.  Additionally, Our team will brief you about the upcoming trips and overnight at the hotel.

      In the early morning, You'll be transferred to the domestic airport. Embark your day with an exhilarating picturesque flight to lukla airport (2,800m/9,184ft), which takes around 40 minutes. After spending few time reaching Lukla, allocating porters for carrying baggages, the trek begins heading towards Phakding, passing through lush forests and  traditional Sherpa villages and farms. Following the trail, crossing the suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi river, grasp the astonising views of Kusum Kangaru (6,369m/20,890ft). Next One and half hours of moderate walk brings you to Phakding village for the overnight stop and enjoy the warm hospitality of Everest region.

      • Maximum Altitude2610m

      Today’s trial winds you through pine forest, beautiful villages and several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. About 2 hours of walk takes you the Monjo Village, the entrance gate of the Sagarmatha National Park, where your trekking permit will be checked. 

      After taking lunch, the trial descends along the Dudh Koshi River, passing notable spots like Mislung and Larja Dovan, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. Its time to ascend the challenging steepy section of the trek called 'Namche Ukalo' which includes the crossing of iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. As you will climb higher, you'll get an amazing view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and a closer view of Tawache Peak.

      It's a tough climb up the hill, but you'll be rewarded in Namche Bazaar (popular Sherpa capital) with your first glimpse of Everest and the lively atmosphere of Namche makes your trip worthwhile.

        Continous trekking without taking rest can cause altitude sickness to many. So to avoid that risk as well as allowing our bodies to fully recovered and become ready to acclimatize to the lofty mountain,  we will be taking a much needed break! Although the day will be spent at Namche, it will be full of exploring Namche Bazzar, a shopping hub filled with all sorts of trekking and mountaineering clothing and equipments. Dont miss to out check the Sherpa Culture Museum for an overview of the Sherpa traditions and history of Sherpa climbers in Everest region. 

        There's an optional 2 hours hike to Syangboche (Everest View Hotel), an uphill walk that will help accelerate acclimatization, where you’ll be serverd to magnificient panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and many ohters snow capped peaks.

          We leave Namche Bazaar and head to Thame following Bhote Koshi and past the pine and rhododendron forests. On the way, you will also get to see the mud-plastered stupa at Phurte. As you move ahead you will come to Thamo and Thamo Gompa, and from here the path drops steeply to Khumbu Hydroelectric Plant, ultimately leading to the Thame, which lies at the end of Khumbu Valley. 

          Thame is home to many famous Sherpa mountaineers, including Apa Sherpa, who holds the world record for summiting Everest 21 times. It is also a childhood home of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, one of the first men to climb Mt Everest. 

          • Maximum Altitude3800m
          • Time4-5 hrs

          After visiting monastery in the early morning, we walk through several villages witnessing the variation of landscapes, vegetations along with the morning sparkling light view of snow capped mountains. After taking short break reaching Marulung village, we trek for few hours to get to Lungden where we stop for the night. If we reach in time, we opt to hike to Cho Relmo Lake. 

          • Maximum Altitude4380m
          • Time6-7hrs

          Today we will encounter the first of the Three Passes – Renjo La. The route starts off gently but will soon turn into a hard day of hiking as we near the end of the ascent to Renjo La. Try to think of the magnificent views you will get at the top to motivate you! After the pass, we will descend to the third of the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes and then trek onto the village of Gokyo for the night.

            We start our early morning uphill hike to Gokyo Ri to catch the sunrise view over the mighty mountains. Gokyo Ri offers the astonising views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, Taweche, Makalu and many other snow capped peaks. After spending great time on top of th Gokyo Ri, we descend down to Gokyo. We then redirect our path towards Thagnak passing through rocky trail of Ngozumpa glacier. With frequent ups and downs on the glacial moraine, we get to a small settlements of lodges, Thagnak, where we stay overnight.

              After ealy morning breakfast, we continue our trial on rocky and glacial morains to reach Cho La Pass which is a bit challening as we may have to cross in snow conditions. From Cho la pass, we can witness the spectacular view of Mt. Everest, Cholaste and many other mountains. After spending joyful time at the top of the Cho La Pass, we descend to Dzongla for the overnight stay.

                We will have a short trek to Lobuche Today. The trail descends through pasture alongside the Chola Lake and then, ascends on the debris of the Khumbu Glacier to rejoin the classical Everest Base Camp Trek. As the journey progresses, we can see the monuments of the mountaineers who lost their life in this region. With the gradual walk for few hours, following the Imja Khola valley route, we get to small settlement near Mt. Everest called Lobuche where we stay overnight.

                  Its a long journey today as the trail firstly reach Gorak Shep, then climb EBC and return to Gorak Shep. 

                  After early morning breakfast, our journey moves ahead through short plain meadows and then we frequently ascend and descend  glacial moraine on rocky terrain. About 3 hours of walking takes you to Gorak Shep where we check-in our rooms and take lunch.

                  After a short rest, leaving backpacks, we traverse on the rough rocky moraine, dunes and streams of Khumbu Glacier to get to the long-awaited destination, the Everest Base Camp (EBC), which takes about 2 hours. Though the tail is of gradual ascent but the rocky and uneven trail with thin air makes it more challenging. Being in EBC, explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Changtse, Khumbuste, Nuptse, Pumori and many other snow-capped peaks.  Enjoy your glorious moment being at the base camp of the world's tallest mountain Mt. Everest.  After capturing pictures and spending quality time over there, we descend back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.

                    As we would like to reach on top of the Kalapatthar before sunrise, we depart to hike around 4 am early morning. Though the trial may be difficult, its worthy to be in the peak of mountain and witness the greatness of nature with jaw dropping view of sun rising. Two hours of steeply rocky uphill trial takes you to the top of Kalapatthar (5,545 m), which is one of the well-known destination for the trekkers. After having great time at the top, along with Mt. Everest standing tall right in front, we, then descend back to Lobuche through a less strenuous trail. 

                    Stay overnight at Lobuche

                      Today, you will be crossing the final pass, Kong La Pass, which is considered the most difficult among all three passes. Early in the morning, we will start to trek towards the top of the Kong Ma La Pass. Firstly, we will trek on the glacier and trek uphill to the top. The trail is narrow and rugged. Always heed the instructions of the trekking guide.  There are many crevasses and vertical trails. Upon crossing the pass we will reach Chhukung wher we stay overnight.

                        Today is another day set aside for acclimatization. To recover from our worn-out feet we take sufficient rest. Stay hydrated and intake nutritious food, relax properly so that your body get prepared for futher journey.

                        If you are good with your feet, you opt to hike Chhukung Ri which is considered as the best acclimatization hike before the Island Peak summit attempt. Upon reaching the Chhukung Ri, immerse into beautiful landscapes of deep valleys along with the magnificent views of Ama Dablam and Amphu Labsa peaks. Retracing the our journey, we descend back to Chhukung.

                        Overnight stay at Chhukung.

                          It is a relatively shorter trek today but the sharp uphill climb makes it a bit challenging. Commencing the trail we hike steeply facing south for a short distance and continue to traverse facing east following the route on main valley. After passing across several streams, we marsh though rough rocky boulder route. The trail continues to ascend Imja and Lotse glacial moraines leading to campsite area in a wide valley known as Island Base Camp.

                          After reaching Base Camp, our climbing leaders will set up the camp and prepare lunch. After taking luch, our guides will conduct a training session and teach us necessary skills and techniques required for forthcoming climb to summit. 

                          Overnight stay in tented camp at Island Peak Base Camp.

                            We wake up early at wee time around 1-2 am and take warm pleasant breakfast before commencing our summit push. It is important to reach the peak before noon to avoid strong wind which might be the barrier for summit attempt. The trail moves up leaving the base camp for several hundred meters before striking off the steep hillside.

                            Initially sandy, the path soon turns to grassy before becoming boulder strewn. As we climb up the hill, we will see that the slope narrows and the trail enters a steep rock channel. We climb the rock gully. This is not difficult, but there are several short rock steps to climb before we emerge on the right side of the gully. The route then follows a ridgeline, which leads to an exhilarating and exposed traverse onto the snout of the summit glacier. The guides will fix a rope when required. A steep snow slope leads us onto the summit ridge. Both fixed rope and man rope will be used during the climb for safety. We use fix rope after successfully climbing on rock. The length of the rope will usually be of 350m. However, the length depends on the time of the season and the crevasses

                            There are two newly formed crevasses which are approximately 3 and 4 meters long. We will be using ladders to cross them. After enjoying the summit views, and taking pictures, we descend all the way to Island Peak Base Camp where some of our crew is waiting for us. We celebrate on our successful Island Peak climb.

                              From Pangboche we retrace our steps down to the Imja Khola and up through the forest to Tengboche. If interested, we can also visit nuns at the Tengboche monastery. After lunch at Tengboche, we continue through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. After crossing the bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, our trail follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through the pine forests before reaching Sansa. We keep a lookout for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc., while passing through the forest. After passing a chorten, we reach the army camp at Namche Bazaar.  Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

                                From Pangboche we retrace our steps down to the Imja Khola and up through the forest to Tengboche. If interested, we can also visit nuns at the Tengboche monastery. After lunch at Tengboche, we continue through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. After crossing the bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, our trail follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through the pine forests before reaching Sansa. We keep a lookout for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc., while passing through the forest. After passing a chorten, we reach the army camp at Namche Bazaar.  Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

                                  We continue our trek taking deep dive from the Namche hill for about an hour then descend gradually through dense forests crossing several suspension bridges all the way to Manjo, Benkar Phakding and ultimately to Lukla. 

                                    You will take early morning flight to Kathmandu. Spent your day visiting various heritage sites including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Bouddhanath. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner in a typical Nepalese Restaurant with cultural show. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Tamel and shop for souvenirs.

                                      One of our representatives will drop you off at the airport for your scheduled departure. Thankyou for the opportunity to take you to the beautiful destination. We wish for a safe journey back home. 

                                        FAQs

                                        • Q1. What is the Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing?

                                          The Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing is one of Nepal's most complete Himalayan adventures. It combines crossing the three high mountain passes—Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m)—with visits to Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, and the summit of Island Peak (6,189m). It is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking their introductory, yet challenging, Himalayan climbing experience.

                                        • This is considered a strenuous trekking and climbing adventure. Participants should be physically fit, have previous high-altitude trekking experience, and be prepared for long walking days, steep ascents, glacier crossings, and a technically demanding summit climb using climbing equipment.

                                        • The highest altitude point is the summit of Island Peak at 6,189 meters above sea level. During the trek, you will trek to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and cross the high altitude Kongma La (5,535m) and Cho La Pass (5,420).

                                        • Following permits are mandatory to traverse through Everest Three Pass Trek and Climb Island Peak:

                                          • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
                                          • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
                                          • Island Peak Climbing Permit

                                        • Yes. Since the trek reaches elevations above 6,000 meters, there is a high risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). South Col Adventures follows a carefully designed itinerary with acclimatization days, gradual altitude gain, and experienced guides trained to recognize and manage altitude-related illnesses.

                                        • Previous mountaineering experience is helpful but not mandatory. South Col Adventures provides a pre-climb training session at Island Peak Base Camp, where experienced climbing guides teach the use of crampons, harnesses, ice axes, fixed ropes, and other essential climbing techniques.

                                        • The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their finest. These seasons also offer the highest chances of a successful Island Peak summit.

                                        • The journey offers spectacular views of some of the world's highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Pumori, Thamserku, Cholatse, Taboche, Baruntse, and many other Himalayan peaks.

                                        • South Col Adventures is one to the mostly reputed trekking companies with 100% record of successful Everest Three Passes trek. We provide experienced and reliable porters and proficient guides. Moreover, our company aims on safety, quality and professional service by providing fine logistics. In conclusion, our  Everest Three Passes trek is known for high safety standards, 100% success rate, carefully designed itineraries, reliable logistics, excellent accomodation within the most affordable prices.

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