Everest Two Passes Trek

The Everest Two Passes Trek gives you a real mountain challenge without crossing all three high passes. You still visit famous places like Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. At the same time, the route takes you away from the busiest trail toward Gokyo Lakes, Renjo La, and Cho La. This makes the journey more rewarding.

Instead of walking the same trail back, you follow a wide loop through the Khumbu region. Each day brings new scenery, from blue lakes and huge glaciers to Sherpa villages and close views of Mount Everest.

Tour Plan

1. Day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1,395m / 4,577ft)

   You arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where a member of our team welcomes you outside the arrival area and takes you to your hotel in a private vehicle.

   After check-in, you can rest from your flight or take a short walk around the hotel area. Later, your guide will brief you about the trek route, flights, permits, packing, weather, and the high-altitude days ahead.

   • Drive Duration: 30 to 45 minutes

   Note: Keep your passport, travel insurance, and flight details ready for the trek preparation.

2. Day 02Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,650m / 8,694ft) | 3 to 4 hrs

   You take an early mountain flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. However, during the busy trekking season, direct Lukla flights from Kathmandu may not be available. In that case, you drive from Kathmandu to Manthali first and take a short flight to Lukla from there.

   After landing in Lukla, the walk begins gently as the trail descends into the Dudh Koshi Valley. You move past riverside paths, mani stones, prayer wheels, and small Sherpa settlements before reaching Phakding and checking into your teahouse near the Dudh Koshi River.

   • Trek duration: 3 to 4 hours
   • Trek distance: Approx. 8 km / 5 miles
   • Starting altitude (Lukla): 2,850m / 9,350ft
   • Ending Altitude (Phakding): 2,650m / 8,694ft
   • Elevation loss: -200m / -656ft

   Note: During peak seasons (March–May and September–November), Lukla flights often operate from Manthali instead of Kathmandu. The flight takes about 20 minutes from Manthali and around 35 to 40 minutes from Kathmandu.

3. Day 03Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft) | 5 to 6 hrs

   You wake up early in Phakding and start the walk toward higher ground. The trail becomes more active as you pass Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsalle. At Monjo, your guide completes the Sagarmatha National Park entry check before the route moves into forest paths, bridge crossings, and short uphill sections.

   Beyond Jorsalle, you cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge and begin the steep climb toward Namche Bazaar. As you gain height, the first clear mountain views begin to appear. You reach Namche, the main Sherpa town of the Khumbu, with shops, bakeries, lodges, and mountain culture around you.

   • Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours
   • Trek distance: Approx. 10 to 11 km / 6 to 7 miles
   • Maximum altitude: 3,440m / 11,286ft
   • Elevation gain: +790m / +2,592ft

   Note: The last climb to Namche is steep, so pace steadily and stay hydrated.

4. Day 04Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft) | 3 to 4 hrs

   You spend the day acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar, so the overnight stay remains in the same town. Instead of resting all day, you take a short hike above Namche to help your body adjust to the altitude. The common route leads toward the Everest View Hotel, with clear views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and other Khumbu peaks.

   Depending on the weather and your energy level, the hike can be extended toward Syangboche, Khumjung, or Khunde. Along the way, you see Sherpa villages, old monasteries, stone houses, and daily mountain life. After exploring these areas, you return to Namche Bazaar, spend some time around the market, and rest well before heading higher.

   • Hike duration: 3 to 4 hours
   • Hiking distance: Approx. 4 to 6 km / 2.5 to 4 miles
   • Maximum altitude: 3,880m / 12,730ft
   • Elevation gain: +440m / +1,444ft

   Note: Follow the acclimatization rule: hike high and sleep low.

5. Day 05Trek from Namche Bazaar to Thame (3,750m / 12,303ft) | 5 to 6 hrs

   You leave Namche Bazaar and take a quieter trail that follows the upper Bhote Koshi valley, away from the busy Everest Base Camp route. The path winds through forests, mani walls, and small Sherpa settlements, with open views of surrounding ridgelines and snow peaks.

   Along the way, you pass Thamo Gumba, a peaceful monastery area, before continuing to Thame, a traditional Sherpa village known for its ancient monastery and mountaineering heritage. The afternoon stays relaxed, giving you time to explore the village and rest for the higher-altitude days ahead.

   • Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours
   • Trek distance: Approx. 9 to 10 km / 5.5 to 6 miles
   • Maximum altitude: 3,750m / 12,303ft
   • Elevation gain: +310m / +1,017ft
6. Day 06Trek from Thame to Lungden (4,500m / 14,764ft) | 5 to 6 hrs

   You trek deeper into the quieter Bhote Koshi valley, leaving the main Everest trail far behind. The landscape becomes drier and more open, with stone houses, yak pastures, mani walls, and long mountain views. The trail passes through Marlung, a popular larger settlement in the Thame valley, before continuing gradually upward.

   As you gain altitude, the air feels thinner, and the pace naturally slows. You reach Lungden, a small high-altitude village, where you rest early and prepare for the demanding Renjo La Pass crossing the next day.

   • Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours
   • Trek distance: Approx. 10 to 11 km / 6 to 7 miles
   • Maximum altitude: 4,500m / 14,764ft
   • Elevation gain: +750m / +2,461ft

   Note: Walk steadily and hydrate well to support acclimatization.

7. Day 07Trek from Lungden to Gokyo (4,750m / 15,584ft) via Renjo La Pass (5,360m / 17,585ft) | 7 to 8 hrs

   You start early for a challenging and rewarding day as the trail climbs above Lungden toward Renjo La Pass. The ascent is steep and rugged, with rocky sections and cold wind as you gain height. Reaching the prayer-flagged pass feels like a major achievement, with sweeping views of the Himalayan giants, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

   From Renjo La, you descend carefully on rocky trails into the dramatic Gokyo basin. The route opens to the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the impressive Ngozumpa Glacier before you arrive in Gokyo village for a well-earned rest at altitude.

   • Trek duration: 7 to 8 hours
   • Trek distance: Approx. 11 to 12 km / 7 to 7.5 miles
   • Maximum altitude: Renjo La Pass, 5,360m / 17,585ft
   • Elevation gain: +860m / +2,822ft
   • Elevation loss: -610m / -2,001ft

   Note: Carry warm layers and move carefully on the descent if conditions are icy.

8. Day 08Acclimatization Day in Gokyo (4,750m / 15,584ft) | 3 to 4 hrs

   You take a well-planned acclimatization day in Gokyo, allowing your body to adjust before the next high pass. An early hike to Gokyo Ri is the highlight, offering some of the best panoramic views in the Khumbu, with sweeping mountain and glacier scenery.

   After the hike, you return to Gokyo village and spend the rest of the day at a relaxed pace. You can explore the shores of the Gokyo Lakes, enjoy views of the Ngozumpa Glacier, and rest well for the upcoming crossing toward Cho La.

   • Hike duration: 3 to 4 hours
   • Hike distance: Approx. 4 to 5 km / 2.5 to 3 miles
   • Maximum altitude: Gokyo Ri, 5,357m / 17,575ft
   • Elevation gain: +607m / +1,991ft
   • Elevation loss: -607m / -1,991ft

   Note: A slow pace and good hydration help acclimatization at this altitude.

9. Day 09Trek from Gokyo to Thangnak (4,700m / 15,420ft) | 4 to 5 hrs

   You leave Gokyo and follow the valley trail alongside the dramatic Ngozumpa Glacier, walking through a stark alpine landscape of rock, moraine, and scattered yak pastures. The route stays quieter and feels more remote, with wide glacier views and surrounding peaks guiding the way.

   The walk is shorter but still demanding due to the altitude. You reach Thangnak, a small settlement with a few teahouses, and rest early to prepare for the Cho La Pass crossing the next day.

   • Trek duration: 4 to 5 hours
   • Trek distance: Approx. 4 to 5 km / 2.5 to 3 miles
   • Maximum altitude: 4,750m / 15,584ft
   • Elevation loss: -50m / -164ft

   Note: Rest well tonight since tomorrow is a high pass day.

10. Day 10Trek from Thangnak to Dzongla via Cho La Pass (5,420m / 17,782ft) | 7 to 8 hrs

    You start early for one of the toughest days of the trek as the trail climbs from Thangnak toward Cho La Pass. The ascent moves through rocky terrain and can include snow and ice, so careful footing and a steady pace matter. From the top of Cho La, you take in dramatic high-mountain views before beginning the descent.

    The downhill section is steep at first and often the most technical part of the day. As the trail eases, you continue toward Dzongla, a quiet village set beneath towering peaks, where you rest after the long pass crossing.

    • Trek duration: 7 to 8 hours
    • Trek distance: Approx. 10 to 12 km / 6 to 7.5 miles
    • Maximum altitude: Cho La Pass, 5,420m / 17,782ft
    • Elevation gain: +720m / +2,362ft
    • Elevation loss: -565m / -1,854ft

    Note: Microspikes will be helpful if the pass is icy.

11. Day 11Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,910m / 16,109ft) | 4 to 5 hrs

    You leave Dzongla and follow a rugged high-altitude trail with wide mountain views and glacier scenery. The route passes the beautiful Chola Lake, then continues across moraine terrain as the landscape becomes more barren and dramatic. The air is thinner here, so the pace stays slow and steady.

    As you approach Lobuche, you begin to feel the presence of the Khumbu Glacier and the Everest foothills around you. You arrive in Lobuche by afternoon, rest in the teahouse, and prepare for the Everest Base Camp day ahead.

    • Trek duration: 4 to 5 hours
    • Trek distance: Approx. 6 to 7 km / 4 to 4.5 miles
    • Maximum altitude: 4,910m / 16,109ft
    • Elevation gain: +55m / +180ft

    Note: Keep warm in the evening as temperatures drop quickly at this altitude.

12. Day 12Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) and Return to Gorak Shep (5,185m / 17,011ft) | 7 to 8 hrs

    You follow the rocky moraine trail beside the Khumbu Glacier, passing memorials and glacier viewpoints as the scenery turns wild and icy. After reaching Gorak Shep, you check into the teahouse, leave your heavy bag there, take a short break, and continue toward Everest Base Camp.

    You continue across glacial terrain with close views of the Khumbu Icefall area and surrounding peaks. After time at Base Camp for photos and rest, you retrace the trail back to Gorak Shep for the night, ready for the early start to Kala Patthar.

    • Trek duration: 7 to 8 hours
    • Trek distance: Approx. 11 to 12 km / 7 to 7.5 miles
    • Maximum altitude: Everest Base Camp, 5,364m / 17,598ft
    • Elevation gain: +454m / +1,490ft
    • Elevation loss: -179m / -587ft

    Note: Walk steadily and dress in layers as wind and cold increase near Base Camp.

13. Day 13Hike to Kala Patthar and Trek to Pheriche (4,250m / 13,944ft) | 6 to 7 hrs

    You start before dawn for the climb to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek and the best viewpoint for a close-up Everest sunrise. The trail is steep and cold, but the panoramic Himalayan scenery from the top makes the effort worth it.

    After returning to Gorak Shep for breakfast, you begin a long descent through the upper Khumbu valley, passing familiar glacial landscapes and gradually returning to easier air. You reach Pheriche, a windswept settlement with wide valley views, and enjoy a more comfortable night at a lower altitude.

    • Trek duration: 6 to 7 hours
    • Trek distance: Approx. 13 to 15 km / 8 to 9 miles
    • Maximum altitude: Kala Patthar, 5,555m / 18,225ft
    • Elevation gain: +370m / +1,214ft
    • Elevation loss: -1,305m / -4,281ft

    Note: Start early for Kala Patthar, dress warmly, and descend steadily to Pheriche after the sunrise hike.

14. Day 14Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft) | 7 to 8 hrs

    You continue descending through the Khumbu valley, passing stone walls, yak pastures, and classic mountain scenery as the trail becomes greener again. The route leads through Pangboche and then toward Tengboche, where prayer flags and monastery views add a peaceful feel to the day.

    After crossing the river and climbing briefly, the trail continues through forests and familiar villages on the way back to Namche Bazaar. You arrive in Namche with time to enjoy a warm meal, relax in cafes, and celebrate the hard days already completed.

    • Trek duration: 7 to 8 hours
    • Trek distance: Approx. 15 to 16 km / 9 to 10 miles
    • Maximum altitude: 4,250m / 13,944ft
    • Elevation loss: -810m / -2,657ft

    Note: Use trekking poles to reduce strain on knees during the long descent.

15. Day 15Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft) | 6 to 7 hrs

    You leave Namche Bazaar and descend on familiar trails back into the Dudh Koshi valley. The route crosses suspension bridges and passes through pine forests and small villages, with a mix of steady descents and short uphill sections that keep the day active.

    You continue past Phakding and follow the river trail toward Lukla, where the trek began. After arriving, you check into a teahouse, enjoy your final evening in the Khumbu, and celebrate the completion of the Everest Two Passes adventure.

    • Trek duration: 6 to 7 hours
    • Trek distance: Approx. 18 to 19 km / 11 to 12 miles
    • Starting Altitude (Namche Bazaar): 3,440m / 11,286ft
    • Elevation loss: -590m / -1,936ft

    Note: Pack flight essentials separately since the next morning starts early.

16. Day 16Fly back to Kathmandu or Manthali from Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft) | 20 to 40 min

    You take a scenic flight out of Lukla, enjoying one last aerial view of the Khumbu valleys and Himalayan ridgelines. After landing, you transfer onward and wrap up the trek with time to relax and reflect on the journey.

    In peak seasons, you often fly to Manthali/Ramechhap and then continue by road to Kathmandu. In other months, flights usually operate directly to Kathmandu, giving you a smoother return.

    • Flight Duration: 20 to 40 minutes
    • Drive Duration: Approx. 4 to 5 hours from Manthali to Kathmandu, if the flight operates via Manthali

    Note: Lukla flights depend on weather and airport conditions, so keep your return schedule flexible.

17. Day 17Final Departure from Kathmandu

    Your final morning in Kathmandu stays relaxed. Depending on your flight time, you may rest at the hotel, buy last-minute gifts, or take a short walk around the nearby area.

    At the scheduled time, our driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport. Your Everest Two Passes Trek ends here after 17 days across Kathmandu, Gokyo Lakes, Renjo La, Cho La, Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar.

    • Drive Duration: 30 to 45 minutes

    Note: Reach the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.

What’s Included & Excluded

Packing List for Everest Two Passes Trek

The trail moves through warm valleys, cold villages, windy passes, and high glacier areas. Pack light, but choose good layers and reliable trekking gear.

Route Map & Seasonal Conditions

Seasons & weather

The best time for the Everest Two Passes Trek is spring and autumn. Spring runs from March to May and brings warmer days, clear views, and blooming rhododendrons in the lower parts of the trail.

Autumn runs from September to November and is the most popular season. The weather is usually stable, the skies are clearer, and the mountain views are often better after the monsoon.

Winter is possible for experienced trekkers, but the trail becomes very cold around Gokyo, Cho La, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep. Snow can also make the high passes harder to cross. Monsoon is less ideal because clouds can block mountain views, and flights to Lukla may face delays. The lower trails can also become wet and slippery.

Teahouses & meals

Accommodation is mainly in local teahouses during the trek. Rooms are simple and usually come with basic beds, blankets, and shared toilets. In places like Namche Bazaar, the lodges feel more comfortable, but facilities become more basic near Lungden, Gokyo, Thangnak, Dzongla, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep.

Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging are available in some villages for an extra cost. These services may not work every day because remote lodges often depend on solar power and local systems. Carry a power bank, enough cash, and warm layers for higher stops.

Meals are warm and filling. Common options include dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soup, potatoes, pasta, pancakes, Tibetan bread, tea, and coffee. The menu becomes shorter in higher villages, so pack energy bars, nuts, chocolate, and electrolyte powder for long walking days and pass crossings.

Fitness & altitude

The Everest Two Passes Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek. You do not need climbing skills, but you should have good fitness, strong legs, and previous multi-day hiking experience.

The main challenges are long walking days, cold weather, thin air, rocky trails, glacier sections, and two high passes: Renjo La and Cho La. The route also reaches Kala Patthar at 5,555m / 18,225ft, so proper acclimatization is very important.

This trek is best for trekkers who want a harder route than the normal Everest Base Camp trek. Fit beginners may complete it with training, guided support, slow pacing, and enough rest days.