Crossing the Sky: My Journey on the Everest Three High Pass Trek

A thrilling journey through Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La passes, the Everest Three High Pass Trek offers epic views and true adventure.

Jul 2, 2025 - 15:35
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Crossing the Sky: My Journey on the Everest Three High Pass Trek

The wind was cold on my face, and my legs felt heavy. But as I stood at the top of Renjo La Pass, I looked out and saw Everest shining in the morning sun. In that moment, all the pain and tired steps felt worth it. This was not just a trek. It was a journey through some of the highest and most beautiful trails in the world. This was the Everest Three High Pass Trek—a path filled with adventure, challenge, and deep emotions.

Why I Chose the Everest Three High Pass Trek

I’ve always loved mountains. There’s something about their size and silence that makes me feel small in the best way. I had done treks before, but I wanted more. I didn’t want the regular path to Everest Base Camp. I wanted something longer, harder, and wilder. That’s how I found the Everest Three High Pass Trek.

It’s one of the most thrilling treks in Nepal. This trek takes you across three big mountain passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). These are not just high—they are tough. But they also lead to views that few people ever see.

The Journey Begins: Step by Step

We flew into Lukla, a small mountain town with one of the most exciting airports in the world. From there, we started walking. The path took us through forests, rivers, and small Sherpa villages. Every day, we climbed higher. The air got thinner, and the nights got colder.

I was not alone. I had a small group with me—my guide, two other trekkers, and a porter. We shared stories, tea, and the weight of the trail. In the mountains, strangers become friends fast.

Trek Stats You Should Know

Before I go further, here are some important numbers about this trek:

  • Trek Duration: 18–21 days (depending on rest and side trips)

  • Total Distance: Around 160 kilometers (99 miles)

  • Maximum Elevation: Kongma La Pass – 5,535 meters (18,159 feet)

  • Best Time to Go: March to May or September to November

These numbers may sound big—and they are—but with good planning and rest days, it becomes possible. Trust me, if I can do it, so can you.

The Three Passes: Hard but Worth It

Kongma La Pass was the first and the hardest. It was steep and rocky, with snow covering the trail. I remember gasping for air and thinking I couldn’t go on. But my guide told me to take it slow. “Bistari, bistari,” he said. That means “slowly” in Nepali. Step by step, I reached the top. The view was huge—Ama Dablam to the south, and the Khumbu Glacier far below.

Cho La Pass came next. This one had a glacier on top. We started early to avoid falling ice. The path was icy and slippery. But when we made it, the feeling was like flying. I had never seen such a wide stretch of white, clean snow in my life.

Renjo La Pass was my favorite. It was the last one, and I felt stronger by then. At the top, the view of Gokyo Lakes and Everest made me cry. I wasn’t just proud—I was thankful.

Side Trips and Highlights

This trek doesn’t only offer mountain passes. It also takes you to some amazing spots:

  • Everest Base Camp (5,364m): We visited this iconic site and stood where many Everest climbers begin their dream.

  • Kalapatthar (5,545m): The best spot to see sunrise over Everest.

  • Gokyo Ri (5,357m): Another climb with magical views of turquoise lakes and snowy peaks.

What I Learned on the Trail

This trek was not only about walking. It was about learning how to be strong and stay patient. I had to listen to my body, drink lots of water, and take care of others in the group. There were times I felt weak and dizzy. But I also felt brave, calm, and full of life.

One night in a tea house in Gokyo, I talked with an old trekker from Canada. He told me, “The mountains show you who you are.” That stayed with me. I think the Everest Three High Pass Trek helped me know myself better. I learned I could do more than I thought.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Trek

If you love mountains and want a real adventure, the Everest Three High Pass Trek is for you. It’s long, it’s hard, but it’s also full of rewards. You’ll walk through quiet valleys, sleep under a sky full of stars, and stand on high passes where the world feels big and open.

It’s not just a trek. It’s a deep, personal journey. One that stays with you long after your boots are off.

rosejenkins Travel Executive