Trek des hauts cols de l’Everest – Région de l’Everest

Everest Three Passes Trek – The Ultimate High-Altitude Himalayan Challenge

The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered one of the most adventurous and comprehensive trekking routes in the Everest region of Nepal. It combines everything a serious trekker could ask for—high mountain passes, remote trails, glacier walks, Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and jaw-dropping views of the world’s tallest mountains, including Everest (8,848m), Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, the Three Passes route is a circular loop that crosses three major high-altitude passes: Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). This trek not only allows you to visit Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar but also leads you to the stunning turquoise lakes of Gokyo and the peaceful, less-trodden trails of the Thame Valley.

Best Time to Do the Everest Three Passes Trek

The ideal seasons for the Everest Three Passes Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the skies are usually clear, the weather is stable, and the mountain views are spectacular. Rhododendrons bloom in spring, and the post-monsoon months offer crisp, dry weather conditions.

The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, leeches, and dangerous trail conditions. Winter (December to February) brings heavy snow to the passes, making crossings risky or impossible.

Weather and Trail Conditions

Weather in the high Himalayas is unpredictable, especially at altitudes above 5,000 meters. During the day, temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C in the lower valleys but can drop to -10°C or lower at night in higher altitudes. Strong winds and sudden snowfall are common near the passes, even in peak trekking seasons.

The trails include rocky paths, glacial crossings, narrow ridgelines, and steep ascents and descents. Snow and ice may remain on the passes even in spring and autumn, so good physical fitness and mountain awareness are crucial.

Required Equipment

Because this trek is long and includes extreme altitudes, trekkers must carry appropriate gear:

• Warm, layered clothing including a down jacket and thermal innerwear

• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers

• Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots

• Sleeping bag rated for -15°C or lower

• Trekking poles and headlamp

• Gloves, warm hat, and gaiters

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF

• Reusable water bottles and purification tablets

• First-aid kit with altitude sickness medication

• Lightweight crampons or microspikes (recommended for passes)

Trekking Difficulty and Preparation

The Everest Three Passes Trek is considered very challenging due to its high altitude, length (approximately 18 to 21 days), and multiple pass crossings above 5,000 meters. Trekkers should have previous high-altitude trekking experience or undergo physical training before the trip. Mental preparedness and flexibility with itinerary changes due to weather are also important.

Acclimatization days are essential and typically include rest stops at Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Gokyo. A slow pace, proper hydration, and avoiding alcohol are key to minimizing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Permits Required

To trek in the Everest region, you’ll need:

• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit (obtainable in Lukla)

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (obtainable in Kathmandu or Monjo)

No TIMS card is needed for this region as of current regulations, but this may change, so checking updated requirements before your trek is recommended.

Safety and Guide Support

Although independent trekking is allowed, hiring a licensed guide and porter is highly recommended for safety, especially while crossing the high passes. Guides provide local knowledge, help with acclimatization planning, and ensure immediate assistance in emergencies. Porters also reduce the physical burden of carrying heavy loads at high altitudes.

Responsible and Ethical Trekking

At [Your Company Name], we promote human-rights-focused, eco-conscious trekking:

• We ensure fair wages, proper clothing, and insurance for all our guides and porters.

• We do not support child labor and maintain safe and inclusive spaces for all trekkers.

• We reduce environmental impact by discouraging plastic use and supporting local eco-lodges.

• We encourage respect for local Sherpa culture, monasteries, and spiritual landmarks.

Cultural Experience

Besides the natural beauty, the trek offers rich cultural immersion. You’ll walk through historic villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Lobuche, Gokyo, and Thame, where ancient Buddhist monasteries, fluttering prayer flags, and yak caravans are part of daily life. Interacting with Sherpa people offers deep insight into their traditions, resilience, and mountain spirituality.