Counterclockwise Everest 3 Trek
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Counterclockwise Everest 3 Trek

Trip Fact

Destination
Nepal
Max Altitude
5,535 m
Duration
20 days
Difficulty
hard
Group Size
Private /Small Group
Best Season
March to May / September to November

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Trip Description

TheCounterclockwise Everest 3 Trek is the ultimate high-altitude trekking challenge in the Everest Region, crossing three dramatic mountain passes - Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m) - while also visiting Everest Base Camp and summiting Kala Patthar. This trek is designed for experienced and ambitious trekkers who want to experience the full depth and scale of the Khumbu.

The journey begins with a mountain flight to Lukla and climbs through the familiar landmarks of the Everest trail - Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and the upper Khumbu - before venturing into the remote and rarely visited valleys that connect the three passes. Each crossing is a serious undertaking, rewarding you with vast panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding giants of the Himalayas.

Unlike the standard Base Camp route, the Three Pass Trek takes you away from the main trail and into the quieter, wilder corners of the Khumbu. The sense of remoteness, combined with the scale of the scenery and the physical demands of the route, makes this one of the most complete and satisfying trekking experiences available anywhere in Nepal.

With Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition, you are supported by an experienced team throughout every high pass crossing and remote section of this demanding and deeply rewarding journey.

Culture of the Everest Region

The Three Pass Trek winds through the heart of Sherpa country, passing monasteries, mani walls, and ancient trade routes that once connected Nepal and Tibet. Villages like Thame, Gokyo, and Chhukung offer an intimate look at Sherpa life away from the busier sections of the main Everest trail. The spiritual atmosphere of the high Khumbu - where prayer flags snap in the wind above glacial lakes and towering peaks - adds a profound and lasting dimension to this extraordinary journey.

Best Season

Spring (March to May)

Stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures across all three passes make spring the ideal season for this demanding trek.

Autumn (September to November)

Excellent visibility and crisp, settled conditions offer outstanding mountain views and reliable trekking weather throughout the entire route.

Contact our team to plan yourCounterclockwise Everest 3 Trek with the right timing and full support for your adventure.

highlights

Cross three spectacular high passes: Renjo La (5,360 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Kongma La (5,535 m).
Reach Everest Base Camp and summit Kala Patthar for unforgettable mountain views.
Explore remote and less-traveled valleys across the Khumbu region.
Experience authentic Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, and traditional villages.
Witness panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other Himalayan giants.
Trek through dramatic glaciers, high-altitude landscapes, and pristine mountain valleys.
Challenge yourself on one of Nepal’s most demanding and rewarding trekking routes.
Best seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November).

Day by day Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport,  a representative from Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, you may rest or explore the lively streets of Thamel. In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide for a trip briefing and a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepalese cuisine. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

 

Max Altitude

1,300 m / 4,264 ft

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Dinner

After breakfast, your trekking guide will conduct a full equipment inspection to ensure all necessary gear is in order. Any missing items can be purchased in Kathmandu before departure. If time permits, the day is also an excellent opportunity to visit some of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, or Pashupatinath. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude

1,300 m / 4,264 ft

Accommodation

Tea House /Lodge

Meals

Breakfast

Flight Duration: Approximately 40 minutes

Trek Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours

An early morning scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu takes you to Lukla, one of the world's most thrilling mountain airports. After the guide organizes the equipment and porter loads, the trek begins through traditional Sherpa villages and forested trails alongside the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges before arriving at the welcoming Sherpa settlement of Phakding. Overnight stay in Phakding.

 

Max Altitude

2,652 m / 8,700 ft

Accommodation

Tea House /Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours

The trail follows the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it twice via suspension bridges before reaching Monjo, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. After registering at the park checkpoint, the route descends to Jorsalle and then climbs steadily alongside the river to the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. A steep final ascent leads to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant trading capital of the Khumbu region, set in a dramatic natural amphitheater surrounded by Himalayan peaks. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

 

Max Altitude

3,440 m / 11,283 ft

Accommodation

Tea house/Lodge.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A full acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar is essential before ascending further. You may hike to the Everest View Hotel for breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Sherpa Museum to explore the history of mountaineering and Sherpa culture, take a short hike toward Thame village, or simply browse the lively local market. If your visit falls on a Saturday, the weekly market is a particularly vibrant and colorful experience. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

 

Max Altitude

3,440 m / 11,283 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours

Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail offers magnificent views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku throughout the day. The route descends to Kayangjuma and continues through pine forests to Sansa, a major trail junction for Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp. After a relaxed lunch stop at the small teahouse settlement of Phunki Thenga, a steady climb through pine forests leads to Tengboche, home to the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region and set against a spectacular backdrop of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Everest. Overnight stay in Tengboche.

 

Max Altitude

3,870 m / 12,694 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours

The morning begins with stunning photographs of Tengboche Monastery bathed in early light before the trail departs via the upper route toward Pangboche village, passing chortens and mani walls. After lunch with close-up views of Ama Dablam, the route continues northeast into the Imja Valley beneath the towering north face of Ama Dablam. The final ascent of the day climbs to Dingboche, a picturesque village surrounded by stone-walled fields growing barley, buckwheat, and potatoes. Overnight stay in Dingboche.

 

Max Altitude

4,360 m / 14,300 ft

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 3 hours

Today's short stage follows a scenic route from Dingboche into the Chhukung Valley, offering captivating views of Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding glacial terrain. Chhukung is a small but well-equipped settlement at the foot of the Chhukung Glacier, making it an ideal base for the Kongma La crossing the following day. Overnight stay in Chhukung.

Max Altitude

4,730 m / 15,518 ft

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours

Today's crossing of Kongma La Pass at 5,535 meters is the highest of the three passes and one of the most demanding days of the entire trek. Departing early, the route ascends steeply through rocky terrain and traverses the Khumbu Glacier before reaching the pass summit, where sweeping views of Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the surrounding Khumbu giants are the reward. The descent on the far side leads to the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and the settlement of Lobuche. There are no shops or teahouses along the pass route, so adequate food, water, and warm layers must be carried. Overnight stay in Lobuche.

 

Max Altitude

4,940 m / 16,210 ft

Accommodation

Tea House Lodge

Meals

All Meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner]

A rest and acclimatization day at Lobuche allows your body to recover from the Kongma La crossing and prepare for the days ahead. You may take a short acclimatization hike on the surrounding moraines to further adjust to the altitude, or simply rest and enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery. Overnight stay in Lobuche.

Max Altitude

4,940 m / 16,207 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 8-9 hours

The trail from Lobuche follows the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier toward Gorak Shep, with views of Pumori, Nuptse, Lingtren, and Khumbutse along the way. After lunch at Gorak Shep, the trek continues to Everest Base Camp beside the dramatic Khumbu Glacier, where colorful expedition tents and the towering Khumbu Icefall create an unforgettable atmosphere. After celebrating this achievement, the team returns to Gorak Shep for the night. Overnight stay in Gorak Shep.

Max Altitude

5,164 m – 5,170 m / 16,942 ft – 16,961 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours

An early pre-dawn start is required to reach Kala Patthar before sunrise. Temperatures at this hour typically range from -10 to -14 degrees Celsius, so warm layers are essential. The ascent passes several excellent viewpoints before reaching the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags, where a sweeping panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse unfolds in full. After spending time at the summit, the team descends to Gorak Shep for breakfast before continuing to Dzongla in preparation for the Cho La crossing. Overnight stay in Dzongla.

 

Max Altitude

5,545 m/18,192 ft

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours

An early departure from Dzongla around 6:00 AM is essential to avoid strong afternoon winds and the risk of falling stones from the pass cliffs. The first 30 minutes of the trail are relatively gentle before the slope steepens considerably. Icy conditions may be encountered as you approach Cho La Pass, and trekkers should maintain close proximity for safety. After a short rest at the pass with outstanding mountain views, the descent on the western side begins - steep and exhilarating, requiring careful footing. The trail continues across grassy terrain and descends to Thagnak. Overnight stay in Thagnak.

 

Max Altitude

4,830 m /15,850 ft

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours

Today's stage is shorter in distance but requires careful attention, as the entire route traverses the active Ngozumpa Glacier - the largest glacier in Nepal. Shifting terrain, loose rocks, and icy sections demand steady footing throughout. Upon arrival in Gokyo, the afternoon is free to rest, explore the village, and enjoy the serene views of Gokyo Lake and the surrounding peaks. Overnight stay in Gokyo.

 

Max Altitude

5357m

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours

An early morning ascent of Gokyo Ri rewards you with one of the finest panoramic views in the entire Everest region - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Gokyo lakes laid out below in stunning clarity. After descending, the route continues north to the fourth and fifth Gokyo lakes. From a viewpoint above the fifth lake - known locally as Scoundrel's Viewpoint - sweeping views extend across Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier below. Return to Gokyo for the evening. Overnight stay in Gokyo.

 

Max Altitude

5465m

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours

The final and most visually dramatic of the three pass crossings begins with a steep ascent from Gokyo Lake to Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters. From the summit, the view across the Gokyo lakes, the Ngozumpa Glacier, and the full panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu is one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the Himalayas. The descent on the far side leads through high alpine terrain into the Bhote Koshi Valley and continues to the peaceful village of Marlung. Overnight stay in Marlung.

 

Max Altitude

4,249 m/5,360 m

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours

The trail from Marlung follows the ancient trade route once used by Tibetan merchants, crossing the Bhote Koshi River and passing through Taranga before continuing through picturesque Sherpa villages to Thame. Thame is home to the revered Thame Monastery, one of the most important gompas in the Khumbu and birthplace of several famous Sherpa mountaineers. The trail descends through forests and terraced fields before arriving at the familiar surroundings of Namche Bazaar. Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

 

Max Altitude

3,440 m / 11,283 ft

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours

The final day of trekking follows the well-traveled trail from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla, descending through rhododendron and pine forests and crossing numerous suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. The trail passes through familiar Sherpa villages before arriving in Lukla. In the evening, celebrate the successful completion of theCounterclockwise Everest 3 Trek with your guide and porter team. Overnight stay in Lukla.

 

Max Altitude

2,865 m / 9,400 ft

Accommodation

Guesthouse/Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Flight Duration: Approximately 40 minutes to Manthali, then drive to Kathmandu

An early morning flight departs Lukla for Manthali, followed by a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. After arrival and hotel check-in, the remainder of the day is free for relaxation, souvenir shopping in Thamel, or exploring any remaining Kathmandu landmarks. In the evening, a farewell dinner hosted by Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition celebrates the successful completion of theCounterclockwise Everest 3 Trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

 

Max Altitude

1,300 m / 4,264 ft

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Inclusion & Exclusion

Inclusion
  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flights as per itinerary
  • Sagarmatha National Park permit and all local permits
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porter
  • Tea house accommodation and all standard meals during the trek
  • First-aid kit and emergency coordination
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Exclusion
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees
  • Personal travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and laundry services
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Additional expenses due to delays or itinerary changes
  • Any personal expenses not listed in the inclusions

Gallery Highlights

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Expedition preparation

Essential Gear

Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece jacket, insulated down jacket, waterproof shell jacket and pants, trekking trousers, gloves, warm hat, and sun hat.

Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots, camp sandals, trekking socks, and gaiters.

Equipment: Trekking poles, headlamp, daypack, and duffel bag.

Personal Items: UV-protection sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, reusable water bottles, water purification tablets, sleeping bags rated to -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit), personal medications, and toiletries.

Preparation Advice

Physical Preparation: Begin training at least 3 months before departure. This trek involves consecutive days of high-altitude climbing - strong cardiovascular fitness and leg endurance are essential.

Technical Preparation: Prior experience on high-altitude trekking routes above 5,000 meters is strongly recommended. Comfort on steep, icy, and exposed terrain is important for all three pass crossings.

Altitude Awareness: Three passes above 5,300 meters demand careful acclimatization. Follow your guide's advice closely, never rush ascents, and prioritize scheduled rest days.

Mental Preparation: This is a long and demanding route. Resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for remote mountain environments will serve you well throughout the journey.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation up to at least 6,000 meters is required.

Gear Preparation: Gaiters, warm gloves, and a sleeping bag rated to -15 degrees Celsius are particularly important for the cold conditions near the high passes. Ensure all gear is thoroughly tested before arriving in Nepal.

Terms & Conditions

Booking and Payment: A booking deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full before the trek departure date. Please contact our team for specific deposit and payment schedule details.

Travel Insurance: All trekkers must carry valid travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation in Nepal. Coverage must extend to at least 6,000 meters.

Flight Delays and Itinerary Changes: Flights to and from Lukla and Manthali are weather dependent. Delays or itinerary adjustments may occur for safety reasons, and any additional costs incurred as a result are the responsibility of the client.

Guide and Safety Authority: All clients are required to follow the instructions of guides and trekking staff at all times. Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition reserves the right to modify the itinerary if necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants.

Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email or through our official communication channels. Refund eligibility and the amount refunded will depend on how far in advance the cancellation request is received before the scheduled trip, service, or booking date. Cancellations made well in advance may qualify for a partial or full refund, while late cancellations may incur cancellation charges due to operational and administrative costs. Failure to attend without prior notice may result in the booking being treated as non-refundable.In the event that Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition must cancel or reschedule a trip or service, guests will be offered an alternative departure date, travel credit, or refund where applicable. Refund processing times may vary depending on the payment method and financial institution. Certain deposits, permit fees, or third-party service charges may be non-refundable. Please contact our team directly for complete cancellation terms, refund details, and policy information related to your booking.

Customer Reviews

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"Wonderful Experience"

Beautiful Experience

March 2026
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"Wonderful Experience"

Great experience

March 2026
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Pasang Lee Sherpa
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Pasang Lee Sherpa

CEO/Founder

Pasang Sherpa is the Managing Director and one of the principal trekking and mountaineering guides behind Virgin Nepal Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd., a government-approved outdoor adventure company based in Kathmandu. Known for his dedication to client safety, cultural sensitivity, and deep knowledge of Nepal’s terrain, Pasang has played a central role in shaping the company’s guiding philosophy rooted in professionalism and authentic Himalayan experiences.Travelers frequently highlight Pasang’s language skills, leadership, and mountain expertise, noting his ability to create comfortable, informative, and memorable journeys across a variety of terrains — from classic treks like Everest Base Camp to more challenging expeditions.“He speaks fluent English and Chinese and was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and a great guide.” — from a traveler review.

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