As I embark on my second journey back to Nepal, my heart is filled with an indescribable mix of excitement and love for the Himalayas. This trek is not just another adventure; it is a ride to the roof of the world, a chance to witness the majestic beauty of these ancient mountains. My time in Nepal marks a pivotal chapter in my 10-month journey around the world, dedicated to exploring and conquering some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain ranges.
During my last visit to Nepal, I completed a 20-day circuit from Shivala to Everest Base Camp to Jera. That experience revealed the mountains as teachers of raw beauty, undeterred optimism, and profound humility. Reflecting on my time in Nepal, I see these peaks as offering lifelong lessons in resilience and inspiration.
With the grand finale of my trip is set for the summit of Aconcagua in Argentina, my return to Nepal is driven by an insatiable desire to immerse myself once again in the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. This journey is not just about physical preparation for future challenges but about reconnecting with the profound sense of wonder and humility that only these towering giants can inspire. The Three Passes Trek represents the epitome of this quest, blending exhilarating adventure and soulful reflection as I traverse the rugged paths and serene valleys of the highest peaks on Earth.
The Three Passes Trek: A Trekker’s Dream
The Three Passes Trek, spanning approximately 15 days, is widely celebrated across the web as one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Nepal. This incredible journey takes trekkers through three high mountain passes—Kongma La (5,535m / 18,159ft), Cho La (5,420m / 17,782ft), and Renjo La (5,360m / 17,585ft)—each offering breathtaking views and unique challenges. The trek covers a diverse range of terrains, from lush green forests and sparkling glacial lakes to rugged mountain passes and ancient monasteries. Along the way, trekkers experience the vibrant culture of the Sherpa people and the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas.
I chose to undertake this trek with Discovery World Trekking, a decision that added immense value to the experience. For around $1400, excluding tips, I joined a small group consisting of a girl from Vietnam, a guy from Colombia, and another guy from the States. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, though I chose to carry all my own gear, adding an extra layer of challenge and personal satisfaction to the journey.
Often described as the ultimate Everest experience, the Three Passes Trek provides a comprehensive view of the Everest region. It’s known for its demanding nature, requiring a high level of fitness and acclimatization to altitude, but the rewards are immense. Trekkers are treated to panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. The sense of accomplishment upon completing the trek is unmatched, as each step taken and each pass crossed brings a deeper connection to the majesty of the mountains.
This trek is a response to the enduring spirit of chasing my mountain dreams and the profound beauty that lies in the journey itself. As I set out to conquer the Three Passes, I am reminded that every step, every challenge, and every moment is part of a greater narrative—one that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the timeless allure of the mountains.
Day 1: Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
- Trek Distance: 6.2km
- Flight Hours: 40 Minutes
- Highest Altitude: 2650m / 8562ft
- Trek Duration: 3 hrs
It’s wild to think that we’ve only been away from Kathmandu for two days; it feels like a lifetime’s worth of experiences. Leaving the city was easy, but everything after that seemed to move in slow motion. After a day of waiting in vain for a flight to Lukla, we bunked at a cozy tea house, had a hearty meal, and caught some sleep.
This morning, we were up and about by 4 am, hoping to get an early start. But again, fate had us waiting for another 5 hours at the airport. The wait was worth it though – the flight to Lukla was incredible. On reaching, we got our permits sorted and set off on a decent hike to Phakding. Despite exhaustion, the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills made every step worthwhile.
Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Trek Distance: 7.4km
- Highest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,285ft
- Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Today marks our second day as we worked our way to Namche Bazaar. We spent the day mostly tracing the path of a river, crossing over some incredibly high bridges. It was a significant day of trekking; we ascended about 600 meters and are now at approximately 3500 meters. Completing a six-hour hike in just five hours has boosted my confidence, especially since I anticipate more challenging days ahead. Namche Bazaar is a picturesque city nestled in the mountains, with its unique architecture and serene landscapes.
Day 3: Rest day to acclimatize at Namche Bazaar
Today marks day 3 of our 17-day adventure. I’m currently in Namche Bazaar, an altitude twice as high as I’ve ever been. This spot is breathtaking. The setup and layout of this quaint mountain town are beautiful and so unique.
This morning, we embarked on a 3-4 hour hike to a viewpoint. Unfortunately, the clouds obscured our view of Everest, but the hike itself was rewarding and again gave me confidence about my foot. It was a perfect way to acclimate to this high altitude. Today is our rest day. We’re mainly taking it easy, allowing our bodies to acclimate to the altitude and preparing for more intense days ahead. I’ve been reflecting on the concept of a “rest day.” Beyond its physical benefits, I see it as a day of gratitude and reflection. It offers a pause to appreciate both the minute details and significant shifts in our lives.
Day 4: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame
- Trek Distance: 6.8km
- Highest Altitude: (3750m /12,303ft)
- Trek Duration: 6 hrs
It’s day 4 out of our 17-day trek. We’ve reached this picturesque village named Thame. Today, we wound our way through dense forests, ambled alongside a serene river, and crossed paths with tranquil Buddhist monasteries. We walked for around 3-4 hours, and by the time we reached Thame, a thick fog had set in. Even though the fog somewhat masked our views, being at 3,800 meters up, it’s still stunning.
Day 5: Trek from Thame to Lungden
- Trek Distance: 8.2km
- Highest Altitude: 4,500m / 14,764ft
- Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Today was particularly special; we woke up in a quaint village named Lungden and embarked on our journey at the crack of dawn. The day began early with a 5 am breakfast. Today was undeniably challenging. I truly felt the weight of my backpack, but I’m grateful for it. Not only is it preparing me for Argentina, but it’s also sculpting my back to match yours in strength and allure. The hike to the pass took about five hours, and the sights up there were surreal. Nepalese prayer flags fluttered against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and shimmering turquoise waters. It’s moments like these that illuminate the unparalleled beauty of the world we inhabit.
Day 6: Trek from Lungden to Gokyo Lake via Renjo La Pass
- Trek Distance: 9km
- Highest Altitude: (5,446m / 17,867ft)
- Trek Duration: 8 hrs
Today was a test of endurance as we crossed Renjo La Pass. The ascent was steep and challenging, but the view from the top was worth every effort. The turquoise waters of Gokyo Lake, surrounded by towering peaks, were a sight to behold. This significant milestone reminded me of the challenges and rewards of our shared journey.
Day 7: Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak
- Trek Distance: 3.7km
- Highest Altitude: 4,790m / 15,584ft
- Trek Duration: 5 hrs
We spent the day trekking across the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. It was a relatively light day, giving us time to reflect on the journey so far. The camaraderie among trekkers and the breathtaking landscapes made each moment memorable.
Day 8: Trek from Thangnak to Dzongla via Cho La Pass
- Trek Distance: 16km
- Highest Altitude: 5420m / 17,783ft
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hrs
Today, we conquered Cho La Pass. The early morning start and the challenging climb tested our limits, but reaching the top felt incredibly rewarding. The panoramic views and the sense of accomplishment were beyond words.
Day 10: Trek from Dzongla to Gorak Shep
- Trek Distance: 10km
- Highest Altitude: 5,185m / 17,010ft
- Trek Duration: 8 hours
We are now close to Everest Base Camp. The atmosphere is charged with the energy of fellow trekkers chasing their dreams. The views are stunning, and the sense of community is palpable. Every step brings us closer to our goal.
Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar Viewpoint, trek to Lobuche
- Trek Distance: 5km
- Highest Altitude: 5,555m / 18,208ft
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
Today, we climbed Kala Patthar, reaching 5,555 meters. The sunrise over Everest was breathtaking. It was a challenging climb, but the view from the top was worth every effort. The experience filled me with gratitude and a sense of achievement.
Day 12: Trek from Lobuche to Chhukung via Kongma La Pass
- Trek Distance: 10.5km
- Highest Altitude: 5,535m / 18,159ft
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hrs
We conquered our third and final mountain pass today. The climb was steep and exhausting, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top was immense. This pass symbolized the significant moments and milestones in our journey.
Day 13: Trek from Chhukung to Namche Bazaar
- Trek Distance: 23.4km
- Highest Altitude: 3,855m / 12,850ft
- Trek Duration: 8 hrs
Today, we returned to Namche Bazaar, completing our trek. The journey was challenging and rewarding, and I am filled with gratitude for the experience and the lessons learned. This trek has been one of the most strenuous yet fulfilling adventures.
Day 14: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Trek Distance: 21km
- Highest Altitude: 3,440m / 11,285ft
- Trek Duration: 8 hrs
We did it! We’ve completed our trek and are back in Lukla, ready to head back to Kathmandu. The journey has been incredible, filled with challenges, breathtaking views, and unforgettable moments.
Day 15: Lukla back to Kathmandu
Chasing Giants in the Himalayas
The Three Passes Trek is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes on earth. Imagine waking up each day to the sight of towering peaks that pierce the sky, their snow-capped summits glowing in the morning light. As you trek through the Himalayas, the presence of these giants surrounds you, instilling a sense of humility, fortitude, and accomonlishment. Each step taken is a reminder of the sheer scale and beauty of the world we call home.
Chasing giants in the Himalayas, with their towering peaks and serene valleys, is a humbling and inspiring. The trek leads you through a variety of terrains, from lush green forests and sparkling glacial lakes to rugged mountain passes and ancient monasteries. The air is crisp and clear, the skies an endless expanse of blue. Each day offers a new perspective, each turn in the path revealing a landscape more breathtaking than the last.
The beauty of the mountains is complemented by the vibrant culture of the local villages. As you pass through these remote settlements, you encounter the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people. Their lives, so closely intertwined with the mountains, offer a glimpse into a world where nature and tradition coexist harmoniously. Whether it’s sharing a cup of ginger tea in a cozy teahouse or witnessing a traditional prayer ceremony at a local monastery, these cultural exchanges enrich the trekking experience, adding depth and meaning to the journey.
The Three Passes Trek in Nepal represents the beauty of the Himalayas. It tests physical limits, cultivates patience and resilience, and offers a profound connection with nature. Every ascent and descent, every breathless moment at high altitude, and every evening spent under the starlit sky contributes to an experience that is both humbling and empowering.
As I prepare for the grand finale of summiting Aconcagua in Argentina, this trek has provided the perfect foundation, reminding me of the beauty and strength found in every step of the journey. The physical demands of the Three Passes Trek have honed my endurance and acclimatization to high altitudes, essential preparation for the challenges that lie ahead. The mental and emotional fortitude developed during this trek will undoubtedly serve me well as I tackle the highest peak outside of Asia.
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, the Himalayas will always leave you with a sense of wonder and inspiration, ready to conquer any challenge that lies ahead. The mountains teach you to appreciate the journey, to find beauty in the struggle, and to recognize the strength within yourself. The Three Passes Trek is not just a trek; it’s a life-changing experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul. The lessons learned, the friendships made, and the memories created are treasures that you carry with you, long after you have left the shadow of the giants behind.
What mountain or journey will you conquer next, and how do you hope it will impact you?
