Island Peak and Three Passes Trek

Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing

Duration

21 days

Trip start

Kathmandu

Trip end

Kathmandu

Altitude

6,189m

Group size

2-10

Difficulty

very_hard

Best season

Autumn, Spring

Price from

€2400.00

The Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing is the ultimate Himalayan adventure, combining the most complete trekking circuit in the Everest region with the thrilling ascent of one of Nepal’s most famous trekking peaks. This exceptional journey takes you across the three legendary high passes of the Khumbu—Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m)—while also leading you to the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and the summit of Island Peak (6,189 m).

Designed for experienced trekkers seeking a true challenge, this expedition offers an unparalleled combination of breathtaking mountain scenery, high-altitude trekking, rich Sherpa culture, glacial landscapes, turquoise lakes, and an exciting Himalayan climbing experience. Along the way, you will explore traditional Sherpa villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, remote valleys, and some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Nepal.

The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla and follows a circular route through the heart of the Khumbu region. You will visit the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, climb Gokyo Ri for one of the finest panoramas in the Himalayas, cross the dramatic Cho La Pass, stand at Everest Base Camp, and enjoy a sunrise from Kala Patthar with breathtaking views of Mount Everest. The adventure continues through the remote Chhukung Valley before crossing Kongma La Pass and finally attempting the summit of Island Peak.

From the summit of Island Peak, climbers are rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panorama featuring some of the world's highest mountains, including Mount , Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,485 m), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m), as well as countless snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and icefalls.

This trek is much more than a mountain journey—it is a complete exploration of the Everest region. You will encounter friendly Sherpa communities, witness centuries-old Buddhist traditions, cross suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags, and experience the unique atmosphere of the Himalayas. The combination of challenging trekking, high mountain passes, world-famous viewpoints, Everest Base Camp, and a Himalayan peak climb makes this one of the most rewarding adventures available in Nepal.

Whether you are an ambitious trekker looking to push your limits or a mountaineering enthusiast dreaming of your first Himalayan summit, the Everest Three Passes Trek with Island Peak Climbing offers an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, achievement, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth.

Trek Highlights

  • Complete circuit of the Everest region via the famous Three High Passes
  • Cross Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Kongma La Pass (5,535 m)
  • Climb Island Peak (6,189 m), one of Nepal's most popular trekking peaks
  • Visit the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
  • Witness sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,550 m) with breathtaking Everest views
  • Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes, the highest freshwater lake system in the world
  • Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Nepal
  • Ascend Chhukung Ri (5,550 m) overlooking the Imja Valley
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Pumori, Thamserku, and many other Himalayan giants
  • Experience authentic Sherpa culture, traditions, and hospitality
  • Visit ancient monasteries including the famous Tengboche Monastery
  • Walk through the beautiful Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Cross glaciers, moraines, suspension bridges, and remote mountain valleys
  • Perfect combination of trekking, mountaineering, culture, and adventure

detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

HOTEL 1400m

Welcome to Nepal

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy some free time to rest after your international flight or explore the lively streets of Thamel.

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a fascinating city where ancient temples, colorful markets, Buddhist stupas, and modern life blend together. Depending on your arrival time, you may stroll through the nearby streets, enjoy a traditional Nepali meal, or simply relax at the hotel.

Highlights

  • Airport welcome and private transfer
  • First introduction to Nepal
  • Free time to explore Kathmandu

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Not included

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

Hotel 1330m Breakfast,

Explore Nepal's Spiritual Heritage

After breakfast, meet your guide for a cultural tour of Kathmandu's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Continue to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal's most revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

In the afternoon, your guide will conduct a detailed trek and climbing briefing. Equipment will be checked and final preparations made for the expedition.

Highlights

  • Boudhanath Stupa
  • Pashupatinath Temple
  • Trek and climbing briefing
  • Final equipment check

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Breakfast

Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,860 m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

Lodge 2610Mm Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

  • Gateway to Everest

    An early morning scenic flight takes you to Lukla, one of the world's most spectacular mountain airports. Upon arrival, meet the trekking crew and begin your trek.

    The trail gently descends through traditional Sherpa villages, mani walls, and forests along the Dudh Koshi River.

    Trek Details

    • Starting Altitude: 2,860 m
    • Ending Altitude: 2,610 m
    • Elevation Loss: 250 m
    • Distance: 8 km
    • Walking Time: 3–4 hours

    Accommodation

    Lodge

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Phakding (2,610 m) to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Lodge 3440mm Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

  • Enter the Heart of the Khumbu

    Following the Dudh Koshi River, cross several suspension bridges before entering Sagarmatha National Park.

    After Jorsalle, the trail climbs steeply toward Namche Bazaar. If the weather is clear, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest.

    Trek Details

    • Starting Altitude: 2,610 m
    • Ending Altitude: 3,440 m
    • Elevation Gain: +830 m
    • Distance: 11 km
    • Walking Time: 6–7 hours

    Accommodation

    Lodge

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) to Thame (3,820 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Ancient Sherpa Trade Route

Leaving the busy trails behind, head towards the peaceful Bhote Koshi Valley. The route follows an ancient trade path once used by Tibetan traders.

Enjoy beautiful views of Thamserku, Kongde Ri, and Pachermo Peak before arriving in the traditional village of Thame.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 3,440 m
  • Ending Altitude: 3,820 m
  • Elevation Gain: +380 m
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Walking Time: 4–5 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Acclimatization Hike to Sundar Peak (5,000 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Acclimatization Day

A gradual climb above Thame leads to one of the region's hidden viewpoints.

The summit offers stunning panoramas of Everest, Cho Oyu, Kongde Ri, Rolwaling Himal, and countless surrounding peaks.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 3,820 m
  • Highest Point: 5,000 m
  • Elevation Gain: +1,180 m
  • Elevation Loss: -1,180 m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Walking Time: 6–7 hours

Accommodation

Lodge in Thame

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Thame (3,820 m) to Lumde (4,210 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Towards Renjo La

The trail follows the remote Nangpa Valley near the Tibetan border.

This peaceful section offers magnificent mountain scenery and excellent acclimatization before crossing the first high pass.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 3,820 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,210 m
  • Elevation Gain: +390 m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Walking Time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: – Lumde (4,210 m) – Renjo La Pass (5,360 m) – Gokyo (4,790 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

First Great Pass of Everest

A challenging ascent leads to Renjo La Pass, considered one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalayas.

The panorama includes Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes far below.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,210 m
  • Highest Point: 5,360 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,790 m
  • Elevation Gain: +1,150 m
  • Elevation Loss: -570 m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Walking Time: 7–8 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) - Trek to Dragnag (4,700 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

One of the Best Views in Nepal

Early morning ascent of Gokyo Ri for a breathtaking sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

Return to Gokyo before crossing the glacier valley to Dragnag.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,790 m
  • Highest Point: 5,357 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,700 m
  • Elevation Gain: +567 m
  • Elevation Loss: -657 m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Walking Time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Dragnag (4,700 m) – Cho La Pass (5,420 m) – Dzongla (4,840 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Crossing the Famous Cho La

One of the most exciting days of the trek.

The route climbs over rocky terrain and glacier sections before reaching Cho La Pass.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,700 m
  • Highest Point: 5,420 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,840 m
  • Elevation Gain: +720 m
  • Elevation Loss: -580 m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Walking Time: 7–8 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Dzongla (4,840 m) to Lobuche (4,910 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Trek Along the Khumbu Glacier

After breakfast, leave the peaceful village of Dzongla and follow a spectacular trail overlooking the magnificent Khumbu Glacier. Today's walk is relatively short, allowing your body to continue acclimatizing before reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Along the route, enjoy breathtaking views of Cholatse, Lobuche Peak, Nuptse, Pumori, and other snow-covered Himalayan giants. The trail gradually ascends across rocky moraines and glacial landscapes before reaching Lobuche, one of the last settlements before Everest Base Camp.

This afternoon is ideal for rest, hydration, and preparation for the exciting days ahead.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,840 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,910 m
  • Elevation Gain: +70 m
  • Elevation Loss: -50 m
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Walking Time: 2–3 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Lobuche (4,910 m) – Gorakshep (5,164 m) – Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) – Gorakshep

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Reaching the Legendary Everest Base Camp

Today is one of the most anticipated days of the expedition. After breakfast, follow the rugged trail along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier towards Gorakshep, the last settlement in the Everest region.

After a short rest and lunch, continue to Everest Base Camp, the dream destination of trekkers from around the world. Walking beside the dramatic Khumbu Icefall, you will finally arrive at the foot of the world's highest mountain.

Standing at Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable achievement. Surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and the immense Khumbu Icefall, you will have time to celebrate and capture memorable photographs before returning to Gorakshep for the night.

Highlights

  • Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
  • Close-up views of the Khumbu Icefall
  • Walk on the famous Everest expedition route
  • Spectacular glacier and mountain scenery

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,910 m
  • Highest Point: 5,364 m
  • Ending Altitude: 5,164 m
  • Elevation Gain: +454 m
  • Elevation Loss: -200 m
  • Distance: 15 km
  • Walking Time: 7–8 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Gorakshep (5,164 m) – Kala Patthar (5,545 m) – Lobuche (4,910 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

The Best View of Mount Everest

Before sunrise, begin the ascent to Kala Patthar, the most famous viewpoint in the Everest region. The climb is demanding due to the altitude, but the reward is extraordinary.

From the summit of Kala Patthar, enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, Lingtren, and countless Himalayan peaks glowing in the morning light. This viewpoint offers the closest and most spectacular view of Mount Everest available to trekkers.

After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, descend to Gorakshep for breakfast before continuing down to Lobuche.

Highlights

  • Sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
  • Closest panoramic view of Mount Everest
  • Incredible photography opportunities
  • Views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 5,164 m
  • Highest Point: 5,545 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,910 m
  • Elevation Gain: +381 m
  • Elevation Loss: -635 m
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Walking Time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Lobuche (4,910 m) – Kongma La Pass (5,535 m) – Chhukung (4,730 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Crossing the Highest Pass of the Trek

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the entire expedition. An early departure is necessary to cross Kongma La Pass, the highest of the Three Passes.

The trail climbs steeply above the Khumbu Glacier before reaching the summit of the pass. From the top, enjoy magnificent views of Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, and the surrounding glaciers.

After taking time to appreciate the scenery, descend through a remote alpine landscape towards Chhukung, a small settlement located in the heart of the Imja Valley.

Highlights

  • Cross Kongma La Pass (5,535 m)
  • Highest point of the Three Passes Trek
  • Outstanding Himalayan panorama
  • Views of glaciers and remote valleys

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,910 m
  • Highest Point: 5,535 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,730 m
  • Elevation Gain: +625 m
  • Elevation Loss: -805 m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Walking Time: 7–8 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Chhukung (4,730 m) – Island Peak Base Camp (5,100 m)

Tent Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Entering the Mountaineering World

Leave Chhukung and head towards Island Peak Base Camp through a stunning landscape of glaciers, rocky moraines, and towering Himalayan peaks.

After arriving at Base Camp, enjoy lunch and participate in a climbing training session with your experienced mountaineering guide. You will learn how to use crampons, harnesses, ascenders, fixed ropes, and other climbing equipment essential for the summit attempt.

The remainder of the day is spent resting and preparing for the early morning ascent.

Highlights

  • Reach Island Peak Base Camp
  • Climbing training and safety briefing
  • Magnificent views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Island Peak

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,730 m
  • Ending Altitude: 5,100 m
  • Elevation Gain: +370 m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Walking Time: 3–4 hours

Accommodation

Tent Camp

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Summit Island Peak (6,189 m) – Chhukung (4,730 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Summit Day – The Ultimate Achievement

Wake up around 1:00 AM and begin the climb under a sky filled with stars. Equipped with headlamps and climbing gear, ascend gradually towards the glacier.

The route involves crossing snow slopes, navigating crevasses, and climbing fixed ropes before reaching the spectacular summit ridge.

From the top of Island Peak, enjoy one of the most impressive panoramas in Nepal, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, and countless Himalayan peaks.

After celebrating your achievement and taking photographs, descend carefully back to Base Camp before continuing to Chhukung.

Highlights

  • Summit Island Peak (6,189 m)
  • Technical climbing experience
  • Extraordinary Himalayan panorama
  • One of the greatest achievements in the Everest region

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 5,100 m
  • Summit Altitude: 6,189 m
  • Ending Altitude: 4,730 m
  • Elevation Gain: +1,089 m
  • Elevation Loss: -1,459 m
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Walking Time: 10–12 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Chhukung (4,730 m) – Tengboche (3,860 m) – Khumjung (3,790 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Return Through the Heart of Sherpa Country

Leaving the high mountains behind, descend through Dingboche and Pangboche while enjoying magnificent views of Ama Dablam.

Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of the Khumbu region, before continuing through rhododendron forests to Khumjung, one of the most beautiful Sherpa villages in Nepal.

Khumjung is known for its traditional stone houses, the Hillary School, and its monastery, which is said to house a mysterious Yeti scalp.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 4,730 m
  • Ending Altitude: 3,790 m
  • Elevation Loss: -940 m
  • Distance: 18 km
  • Walking Time: 7–8 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18: Khumjung (3,790 m) – Phakding (2,610 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Descending Through the Khumbu Valley

Today follows a scenic route through Namche Bazaar, Monjo, and Sagarmatha National Park.

Enjoy your final views of the Himalayan giants as you descend through forests, suspension bridges, and traditional villages before reaching Phakding.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 3,790 m
  • Ending Altitude: 2,610 m
  • Elevation Loss: -1,180 m
  • Distance: 14 km
  • Walking Time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 19: Phakding (2,610 m) – Lukla (2,860 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Final Trekking Day

The final morning of trekking follows the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful forests and traditional Sherpa villages.

Arriving in Lukla marks the successful completion of your incredible Everest Three Passes Trek and Island Peak expedition. In the evening, celebrate with your guide and porter team.

Trek Details

  • Starting Altitude: 2,610 m
  • Ending Altitude: 2,860 m
  • Elevation Gain: +250 m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Walking Time: 3–4 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 20: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Lodge Breakfast,lunch, Dinner

Return to Kathmandu

Enjoy a final scenic flight over the Himalayas back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for relaxation, souvenir shopping, or exploring the city.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Important Flight Information (Summary)

Flights between Lukla and Kathmandu (or Manthali) depend on weather conditions and may be delayed or cancelled due to bad visibility or strong winds.

We recommend keeping 1–2 extra days in your schedule after the trek before your international flight.

Any extra costs caused by flight delays or cancellations (hotel, meals, transport on helicopter) are not included and will be the traveler’s responsibility. Our team will assist in arranging the best possible alternatives.

Inclusion

  • Airport welcome upon arrival and private transfers between the airport and hotel
  • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu including: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple
  • 3 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Round-trip domestic flights:Kathmandu / Manthali – Lukla – Kathmandu / Manthali
  • Island Peak Climbing Permit
  • Experienced climbing guide for the Island Peak ascent
  • Climbing equipment required for the summit attempt (climbing gear)
  • Insurance, salary, food, and accommodation for the climbing guide
  • Full-board meals during the trek and climb: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
  • Tea house accommodation during the trek
  • Tent accommodation at Island Peak Base Camp (if required)
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • All necessary trekking and climbing permits
  • Professional licensed trekking guide
  • Strong and reliable porter service
  • Salary, insurance, food, accommodation, and transportation for all Nepali staff

Exclusion

  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee
  • Personal travel insurance
  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast)
  • Additional hotel nights in Kathmandu beyond the 3 nights included in the package
  • Entrance fees for monuments and heritage sites during the Kathmandu sightseeing tour
  • Hot and cold drinks (except one tea or coffee served with breakfast)
  •  Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water, fruit juices, and other personal beverages
  • Personal expenses such as: ,Internet/Wi-Fi, Hot showers, Battery charging, Laundry services, Telephone calls
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Expenses caused by flight delays, cancellations, bad weather, natural disasters, strikes, or other circumstances beyond our control
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, climbing guides, porters, and support staff
  •  Any services or expenses not specifically mentioned in the "Price Includes" section
Island Peak and Three Passes Trek
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traveler reviews

5.0

Based on 1 reviews

CR

christian reboul

Trekking Nepal, a small, family-run, French-speaking agency, is very attentive and caring.
Mankumar, his guides, and his porters are top-notch.

I highly recommend them. We also explored Peak, the Kathmandu Valley, and treks in Pokhara, Mustang, and Langtang—we experienced it all, and it was perfect.

frequently asked Question

Island Peak is ideal for beginners with good fitness and basic training. Pre-climb training at base camp is provided.

We provide technical gear (ropes, harness, helmet, etc.). You’ll need personal gear like climbing boots, warm clothing, sleeping bag, etc.

Yes, but we design the itinerary with proper acclimatization days and monitor your health regularly.

 

Absolutely. A combined EBC + Island Peak itinerary takes about 18–20 days and is highly recommended for acclimatization.

 

Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November) offer stable weather and clear views.