22 Days Hard

Everest High Route & Island Peak - 22 days

Technical Gear: Climbing boots (double boots like La Sportiva G2/Sportiva Baruntse). Crampons (compatible with your boots). Ice axe. Climbing harness. Helmet. Carabiners (locking...

Everest High Route & Island Peak - 22 days

Difficulty
Hard
Max Elevation
6189
Duration
22
Best Time
Lukla - Lukla
Accommodation
Tea House/Tents
Group Size
2-15 Pax

Technical Gear:

Climbing boots (double boots like La Sportiva G2/Sportiva Baruntse). Crampons (compatible with your boots). Ice axe. Climbing harness. Helmet. Carabiners (locking and on-locking). Ascender (Jumar).Belay/rappel device (ATC or figure 8). Prusik loops / slings.

Clothing:

Down jacket (800 fill or higher). Base layers (synthetic or merino). Insulated gloves and mittens. Waterproof jacket and pants. Warm hat and balaclava. Buff/neck gaiter

Personal:

Headlamp with extra batteries. Sunglasses (category 4 recommended). Sunscreen + lip balm (SPF 50+). Water bottles and/or hydration bladders. Water purification (tablets, Steripen, etc.). Sleeping bag (-20°C or better). Trekking poles. Snacks (energy bars, gels)

Important: Should you require any equipment or need to hire items, most are available locally. Please notify your guide in advance to ensure availability and proper arrangements.

The Everest 3 High Passes & Island Peak Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular and rewarding circuits, taking you deep into the Everest region with high-altitude landscapes, massive glaciers, and iconic Himalayan peaks. The adventure starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the main gateway and a bustling Sherpa town. You trek along the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and pass traditional Sherpa villages before reaching Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital. On your rest day, explore Khumjung Village, where Sir Edmund Hillary helped establish a school, and Khunde, home to Khunde Hospital, founded with his support.

The trek crosses three legendary high passes: Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m). Highlights include Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for incredible close-up views of Everest. Along the route, you pass the serene Gokyo Valley, sacred Gokyo Lakes, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest. Ascents to Gokyo Ri and Chhukung Ri provide sweeping views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and surrounding peaks. For climbers seeking an additional challenge, Island Peak (Imja Tse, 6,189 m) offers a thrilling summit experience with unforgettable Himalayan vistas. The trek also highlights Sherpa culture with visits to ancient monasteries such as Thame, the oldest in Upper Pangbuche, and the iconic Tengboche Monastery, along with mani stones and chortens scattered along the trail.

The return journey passes through Pheriche, Pangboche, and Tengboche, reaching Lukla via Namche. The final night is a special moment to thank your porters and guides, often celebrated with dancing, sharing, and lasting memories - marking the completion of this epic high-altitude adventure.

Trip Highlight

  • Summit Island Peak for an unforgettable high-altitude achievement.
  • Cross three legendary high passes: Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La.
  • Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar for close-up views of Everest.
  • Explore the serene Gokyo Valley and sacred Gokyo Lakes.
  • Walk along the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest glacier.
  • Climb Gokyo Ri and Chhukung Ri for panoramic Himalayan vistas.
  • Visit iconic Sherpa monasteries: Thame, the oldest, and Tengboche, the largest.

Itinerary

  • D1

    Arrive Kathmandu 1350m. Transfer to the hotel

    Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
    Transfer: 20 M drive hotel.

  • D2

    Kathmandu - Ramechhap - Lukla (2860 m) - Phakding (2610 m)

    Early in the morning, we drive to Ramechhap (Manthali Airport), which takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. From Ramechhap, you'll board a short 20 minute flight to Lukla, the main gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival in Lukla, the trek starts with a gradual descent through alpine forests, suspension bridges, and charming Sherpa villages. After 3 to 4 hour walk, you’ll reach Phakding, a scenic riverside village and the first overnight stop on the trail toward Everest Base Camp.

    Note:

    Due to potential congestion at Kathmandu Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) may mandate that all flights to Lukla operate either from Kathmandu Airport or from Ramechhap Airport.

     In the event that the flight is canceled due to adverse weather conditions, it will be rescheduled for the following day. An additional night’s accommodation will be provided either in Kathmandu or Ramechhap, depending on the point of departure.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Transport : 4/5 hours drive by jeep ( Ramechhap), 25 minutes flight (Lukla).
    Elevation gain: 200 m . Elevation loss : 450 m . 3/4 hours walking.

  • D3

    Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3440 m)

    Today, we starts with a pleasant walk through a pine forest along the river, followed by a short climb out of a narrow gorge. After passing the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where permits are checked, we descend to cross the river on a suspension bridge. The trail continues through a wooded valley, crossing the river again before reaching a confluence from Thame and the Khumbu. A final crossing on a high suspension bridge marks the start of a challenging 1.5 hours ascent to Namche Bazaar, with our first views of Everest midway.

    Upon arrival, we check into a local lodge. Once a quiet village, Namche has evolved into a bustling trekking hub, offering a mix of tradition and modernity - complete with bakeries, cafés, pubs, and other comforts brought back by well-traveled Sherpas.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1178 m . Elevation loss : 409 m . 6/7 hours walking.

  • D4

    Day Excursion, Everest View Point -Khumjung (3790 m)

    Finally, well-deserved rest day to acclimatize and enjoy the surroundings. For those inclined, a hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) offers awesome scenic views of the Himalayas. Alternatively, you may choose to explore Namche Bazaar - relax in a local café, browse the lively market for unique items, or visit the Sherpa Museum to gain insight into local culture. The day concludes with an overnight stay in this iconic mountain village.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.

  • D5

    Namche Bazaar - Thame (3820m)

    As we leave the main Everest trail behind, the peacefulness of this less-travelled valley becomes immediately apparent, offering a welcome contrast to the busier paths from Lukla. After approximately three to four hours of walking, we reach a dramatic suspension bridge stretched high above the river. From here, the trail ascends steadily to the village of Thame, strategically located at the historic junction of trading routes from Rolwaling via the Tasi Labcha Pass and from Tibet via the Nangpa La.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain : 520 M Elevation loss: 235 m. 5/6 hours walking.

  • D6

    Thame - Lungden (4,380m)

    After breakfast, we trek towards Morulung and Lungden, entering the valley mostly known as the Nangpa La Valley. This old trade route is linked to many local legends and was used by Tibetan traders and monks. Today’s walk is not difficult, but the altitude is strongly felt. The landscape is open, dry, and almost without vegetation. We continue to Lungden, a small Sherpa village and the starting point for the route to Nangpa La Pass on the Tibetan border.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain : 640 m Elevation loss: 0 m. 4/5 hours walking.

  • D7

    Lungden - Renjola Pass (5360 m) - Gokyo Lake (4800m)

    Early in the morning, we begin this long yet magnificent day with confidence and calm. The ascent to the pass is challenging, but it leads to the best viewpoint. From the top, a spectacular panorama unfolds: a chain of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest, Makalu and Pumori, stretches to the east, while the turquoise waters of Lake Gokyo lie far below. Nearby rises the imposing south face of Cho Oyu. We then descend towards the Gokyo Glacier, cross it carefully, and continue to the peaceful shores of Lake Gokyo.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain : 1100 m Elevation loss: 600 m. 7/8 hours walking.

  • D8

    Gokyo - Gokyo Peak (5357 m) - Thangnak (4,700m)

    Today, we climb Gokyo Peak (5,357?m). The views are almost as stunning as from Renjo La Pass. The climb takes around 2 hours. It is steep but very rewarding. From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. After photos, we hike back to Gokyo for lunch. Then we continue to Thangnak, a trek of around 2 hours, crossing the Ngozumba Glacier, the world’s longest glacier. Walking on the glacier is not easy, so careful attention is required.

    Note: For those who prefer, it is optional to rest in Gokyo instead of climbing Gokyo Peak

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 790 m or 210 m. Elevation loss: 900 m or 300 m.
    2 hours 15 minutes (without Gokyo Peak) walking, 5 hours 30 minutes (including).


  • D9

    Thangnak - Cho La Pass (5420m) - Dzongla (4,830m)

    In the early morning, we set off for another challenging day, crossing the Cho La Pass. As we approach, we navigate a wide boulder field, left by an ancient moraine. Some sections are steep and may require light scrambling. From the top, we are rewarded with spectacular views, including Ama Dablam from the northwest. We then descend to the grazing pastures below, where the trail becomes easier. Finally, we reach our overnight stop at Dzongla.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain : 300 m Elevation loss: 200 m. 2/4 hours walking.


  • D10

    Dzongla - Goraksheep (5,164M)

    We start from Dzongla, bottom of Dzongla Peak. The surrounding mountains are magnificent. The trail passes above Chola Tso, a green and beautiful lake. The path is easy and scenic. Before joining the Everest Hillary Trail, another panoramic view opens up, including Everest Base Camp, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Khumbutse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche Peak, and the Everest climbers’ memorial spot. After Lobuche, the trail approaches the Khumbu Glacier, with some sections going up and down. The day ends at Gorakshep, the final stop before Everest Base Camp and an important point for both trekkers and climbers.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 825 m . Elevation loss :545 m . 6/7 hours walking.


  • D11

    Gorasheep - Everest Base Camp (5364 m) - Goraksheep(5164M)

    Starting from Gorakshep, the trek to Everest Base Camp follows the Khumbu Glacier for about 3.4?km. The trail is entirely on the glacier, offering close-up views of the surrounding ice and mountains.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 150 m. Elevation loss : 150 m. 3/4 hours walking.

  • D12

    Goraksheep - Kala Patthar (5545 m) - Lobuche

    In the morning, we walk from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints in the region and the closest place to see Mount Everest. From the top, we enjoy clear views of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After spending some time at the summit, we descend back to Gorak Shep and then continue on to Lobuche, following the familiar trail across the rocky moraine.

    Note:- It is not necessary to start the climb early in the morning, as the sun rises in the east and Kala Patthar lies directly behind it. The light at sunrise is therefore not ideal for photographs.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 450 m. Elevation loss : 690 m. 5 hours walking.

  • D13

    Lobuche - Kongma la (5,535m)- Chhukung (4,730m)

    We cross the Khumbu Glacier to reach Kongma La Pass. The climb to the pass is steady and demanding. From the top, there are clear views of the glacier and the Everest Valley, with Nuptse rising above. Nearby stands Imja Tse (Island Peak), a popular trekking peak that is also well known as the approach route to the challenging Amphu Lapcha Pass. We then make a long descent to Chukhung, set below the famous south face of Lhotse.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 670 m. Elevation loss : 1250 m. 6/7 hours walking.

  • D14

    Chhukung - Island Peak Base Camp (5100 m)

    After breakfast, climbing gear is reviewed and packed with your guide. The route from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp is a steady ascent through rugged Himalayan terrain. After lunch at Base Camp, your guide will lead a technical climbing training session to practise essential skills for the summit attempt.

    Accommodation: Tent. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 670 m. Elevation loss : 1250 m. 6/7 hours walking.

  • D15

    Island Peak Base Camp - Summit of Island Peak (6189 m) - Back to Chhukung

    We start our summit push from base camp around 2 a.m., climbing slowly under the stars. The initial trail is gradual, leading to a steep scree slope that takes us up to about 5,800. From here, we reach the glacier, crevassed but manageable, where we gear up with crampons and harnesses.

    A steady climb brings us above 6,000 meters, followed by the most technical section: a 130-meter ice and snow slope angled at 60-70 degrees, depending on conditions. Using fixed ropes, we ascend to the exposed summit ridge, where the dramatic face of Lhotse comes into view. Following the ridge carefully, we make the final steps to the summit of Island Peak - surrounded by a breathtaking amphitheatre of Himalayan giants.

    After enjoying the views and capturing the moment, we descend the same route, return to base camp, and continue down to Chhukhung for a well-earned rest.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 1060 m. Elevation loss : m. 811 hours  walking.

  • D16

    Reserve Day

    The reserve day can be used if the weather is unfavorable for the summit attempt.

    Flights may be rescheduled due to bad weather.

    The day can also be taken anywhere as a rest day, decided with your guide. 

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning, afternoon, evening.

     


  • D17

    Chhukung - Tengboche (3,867m)

    We enjoy a beautiful descent into the Khumbu Valley, winding beneath the majestic slopes of Ama Dablam. Passing through the permanent settlement of Dingboche, where farming is part of daily life, we gradually re-enter forested terrain. We pause in Pangboche, with Ama Dablam still dominating the skyline, before continuing to Tengboche, where we spend the night near its iconic monastery.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning afternoon evening.
    Elevation gain :100 m Elevation loss: 1000 m 6/7 hours walking.

  • D18

    Tengboche - Namche Bazaar

    From Tengboche, downhill through lush rhododendron and pine forests, often accompanied by the sounds of prayer wheels and birdsong. The trail drops steeply to the Dudh Koshi River, which we cross via a suspension bridge. After the crossing, we begin a steady ascent along a well-trodden path, gradually climbing through the forest. As we approach Namche Bazaar, glimpses of Everest and surrounding peaks reappear. The trail flattens out as we reach the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche, where we settle in for the night amid shops, bakeries, and a welcome return to relative comfort.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning, afternoon, evening.
    Elevation gain : 420 m Elevation loss: 420. 5/6 hours walking.

  • D19

    Namche - Lukla

    The trek from Namche to Lukapa retraces the same scenic route taken on the ascent. we share our final moments with the porters - a meaningful time to reflect on the journey and celebrate the experiences we’ve shared together.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 600 m . Elevation loss : 1180 m . 6/7 hours walking.

  • D20

    Lukla - Flight Ramechap - drive Kathmandu

    Begin the day with an early morning flight from Lukla to Ramechhap, offering final views of the Himalayas. From there, enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore, and shop.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning noon.
    Transfer : 30 minutes flight (Ramechhap), 4/5 hours drive (Kathmandu).

  • D21

    Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.

    If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.

    Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):

    - Swayambunath
    - Bhaktapur
    - Boudhanath
    - Patan Durbar Square
    - Kathmandu Durbar Square

     The price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.

    Pricing per person:

      2 - 3 People: €70
      4 - 6 People: €50
      7 - 10 People: €35
      11 - 15 + People: €30                                                    

  • D22

    Final Departure / Back to Native Land

    According to your flight schedule, we will drive you to the airport for your onward journey.

Information

    • What's included
    • What's not included
    • Personal Expenses & Currency
    • Tips & Gratitude
    • Best Time & Best Weather
    • Best Treks, Food & Accommodation
    • Altitude Sickness, Risks & Prevention
    • Know About Nepal
    • Emergency Contacts and Safety
    • CLIMBING EQUIPMENT
    • Head, Hands & Footwear
    • Bag packs & Toiletries (Personal)
    • Upper & Lower Body
    • Sleeping Bags
    • Eating & drinking
    • Sun Stuffs & Miscellaneous

Group Departures

  • All Years
  • 2026
  • All Months
  • November
Dates
Status
3rd November, 2026 - 24th November, 2026
Limited

FAQs

1How difficult is the Three Passes and Island Peak trip?
The Three Passes and Island Peak trip is a very challenging high-altitude adventure, involving multiple 5,000 m+ passes and a 6,189 m summit that requires basic mountaineering skills. You’ll face long trekking days, steep ascents, cold weather and thin air, making excellent fitness and prior high-altitude experience essential. It’s a strenuous but incredibly rewarding journey for well-prepared and determined trekkers.
2Do I need previous climbing experience for Island Peak?
Previous experience is helpful but not mandatory. Basic training on using fixed ropes and gear is provided before the summit push.
3What’s the best time of year to do this trek?
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November) offer the best weather, clearer skies and safer trail conditions.
4Is a guide mandatory for this trek and climb?
Yes, A certified guide is essential, especially for Island Peak, where climbing permits and technical assistance are required.
5Is altitude sickness a risk?
Yes, Proper acclimatization, hydration and a slow ascent are key. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to help manage the risk.
6Can I rent climbing gear in Nepal?
Yes, Most gear - crampons, boots, harness, ice axe, etc.-can be rented in Kathmandu, Namche Bazaar and Chhukung but harness and boots, we don't recommend you to rent.
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Mingmar S. Sherpa
Mingmar S. Sherpa
Managing Director
Lhakpa Sherpa
Lhakpa Sherpa
Co Director & Guide
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