Everest Two Passes Trek – 18 days

The Everest 2 Passes Trek is one of the most exciting and complete trekking adventures in the Everest region of Nepal, designed for trekkers who want to explore more than just Everest Base Camp.

Overview

Show all photos

Overview
Highlight
Outline
Itinerary
Cost Includes/Excludes
FAQs

Duration

18 Days

Max Alitiude

5,555 meters at Kala Patthar

Transportation

Tourist Bus & Flight

Trip Grade

Challenging

Activity

Trekking

Start/End Point

Lukla / Lukla

Best Season

Spring (March - May) & Autumn (late September - November)

Meals

Full board during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation

Hotels (Kathmandu), Teahouses during trek

Trip Overview

The Everest 2 Passes Trek is one of the most exciting and complete trekking adventures in the Everest region of Nepal. This journey is designed for trekkers who want to explore more than just Everest Base Camp and experience the real beauty of the Himalayas. Along the way, you will walk through traditional Sherpa villages, cross high mountain passes, visit Everest Base Camp, enjoy the famous Gokyo Lakes, and witness some of the best mountain views in the world.

This 18-day trek takes you deep into the Khumbu region, home of the Sherpa people and the gateway to Mount Everest. The journey begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by trekking through peaceful forests, across suspension bridges, along riverside trails, and through traditional mountain villages.

As you gain altitude, you will see changes in the surroundings, from green hills and pine forests to rugged alpine terrain and snow-covered peaks. One of the first major stops during this trek is Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar is the lively Sherpa town and trading hub known as the gateway to Everest. Here, you can explore local cafes, bakeries, shops, and museums while adjusting to the altitude.

The trek then continues toward Tengboche, famous for its beautiful monastery and stunning mountain views, especially Ama Dablam. As the journey moves higher, you will pass through Dingboche and Lobuche before reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m). Walking beside the Khumbu Glacier and standing at the base of Mount Everest are among the biggest highlights of the trek.

Another unforgettable experience is the early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m), the highest point of the trek. From here, you will get a chance to enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over the Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and other Himalayan peaks.

Yes, this trek is more adventurous than the classic Everest Base Camp trek because you will cross two high mountain passes, Cho La Pass and Renjo La Pass. During the time of crossing the pass, you will witness the dramatic mountain scenery, glacier trails, rocky landscapes, and panoramic Himalayan views of the towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Cholatse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and more.

After crossing Cho La Pass, the trail enters the beautiful Gokyo Valley, famous for its turquoise glacial lakes and peaceful surroundings. A hike to Gokyo Ri rewards you with incredible panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.

Throughout the trek, you will stay in local teahouses and lodges run by Sherpa families. You will have the opportunity to experience warm hospitality, local food, and the traditional mountain lifestyle of the Everest region.

The Everest 2 Passes Trek is considered challenging due to the high altitude, long walking days, and mountain pass crossings. However, the itinerary is curated to give you the proper acclimatization days to help your body adjust safely to the altitude. With good preparation, a positive mindset, and a reasonable fitness level, the trek becomes an incredibly rewarding experience.

If you are looking for a complete Everest adventure with Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes, Sherpa culture, glacier trails, and high Himalayan passes, the Everest 2 Passes Trek is one of the best trekking experiences Nepal has to offer. It is a journey filled with adventure, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trip Highlights

Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the base of the world’s highest mountain.
Visit Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the famous Sherpa town and gateway to Everest.
Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m), the highest point of the trek, and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise view.
Witness panoramic views of Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), Nuptse (7,861m), and Pumori (7,161m), and more.
Cross the scenic Cho La Pass (5,420m) and Renjo La Pass (5,360m).
Explore Tengboche Monastery (3,860m), the largest monastery in the Everest region.
Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for panoramic Himalayan views.
Explore the beautiful turquoise Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Valley.
Walk beside the Khumbu Glacier and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla & trek to Phakding.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Day 04: Acclimatization Day at Namche. Hike to Hotel Everest View and back.
Day 05: Trek to Tengboche.
Day 06: Trek to Dingboche.
Day 07: Acclimatization Day at Dingboche. Hike to Nangkartsang Peak and back.
Day 08: Trek to Lobuche.
Day 09: Trek to Everest Base Camp and then back to Gorak Shep (5,190 m/17,028 ft).
Day 10: Early morning Hike to Kala Patthar and trek to Dzongla (4,830m).
Day 11: Trek to Thangnak (4,850m) via Chola Pass.
Day 12: Trek to Gokyo Lake.
Day 13: Acclimatization day at Gokyo and hike to Gokyo Ri for sunrise view.
Day 14: Trek to Lungden (4,380m) via Renjo La Pass.
Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar via Thame village (3440m), and visit the Thame monastery.
Day 16: Trek to Lukla.
Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 18: Departure from Nepal.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal, offers a fascinating blend of ancient temples, bustling streets, colorful markets, and rich culture.

In the evening, you will attend a short trek briefing where you’ll meet your guide and receive important information regarding the upcoming journey.

Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,600 feet)
- Accommodation: 3-star Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
Day 02 Fly to Lukla & trek to Phakding.
Your adventure officially begins with an early morning flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla, one of the world’s most thrilling mountain airports. The scenic flight offers unforgettable views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks.

After landing at Lukla, you’ll begin trekking through beautiful Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, mani stones, and lush pine forests toward Phakding.

The trail is relatively easy today, allowing your body to adapt to the increasing altitude gradually. The route passes through beautiful Sherpa villages, including Chheplung and Ghat. You’ll walk beside the Dudh Koshi River while crossing suspension bridges. Eventually, you will reach Phakding.

Overnight in Phakding.

Note: Depending on the trekking season and flight schedule, you’ll either fly directly from Kathmandu or drive to Manthali Airport before boarding a short mountain flight to Lukla.

Flight Duration: 20 minutes
- Max. Altitude: 2,610m (8,563 feet)
- Accommodation: Standard Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 5-6 hours’ drive
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek
- Flight Duration: 20 minutes flight
Day 03 Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Today, you’ll walk along the Dudh Koshi River and cross several suspension bridges. The trail passes through small villages like Toktok, Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsalle.

At Monjo, you will officially enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its incredible mountain scenery and unique Himalayan wildlife.

From the Jorsalle, the trail becomes steeper. The ascent toward Namche Bazaar is one of the most physically challenging. As you ascend through pine forests, there may be opportunities to catch your very first glimpse of Mount Everest if the weather is clear.

Eventually, you will reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa town known as the gateway to Everest.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
- Max. Altitude: 3,440m (11,286 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 04 Acclimatization Day at Namche. Hike to Hotel Everest View and back.
After breakfast, you’ll hike uphill toward Syangboche, and then to the famous Hotel Everest View, one of the highest luxury hotels in the world.

The trail offers incredible panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. If time permits, you can visit Khumjung Village, Hillary School, and Khumjung Monastery.

After enjoying the scenery, you’ll return to Namche Bazaar. You can rest for the remainder of the day or visit local museums, bakeries, cafes, and traditional Sherpa markets in the Namche Bazaar.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
- Max. Altitude: 3,880m (12,730 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Day 05 Trek to Tengboche.
Today, you will leave the Namche Bazaar behind and walk towards the Tengboche. The trail descends to Phunki Tenga beside the river, and then climbs uphill through rhododendron forests. During spring, these forests bloom with colorful rhododendron flowers.

Eventually, you’ll reach Tengboche, one of the most beautiful locations in the Everest region. This place is also famous for its beautiful monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.

Overnight in Tengboche.
- Max. Altitude: 3,860m (12,664 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 06 Trek to Dingboche.
Today’s trail gradually ascends above the tree line as the landscape becomes more rugged and alpine.

Then you will descend through forests, cross the Imja Khola River, and continue toward Pangboche village, one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the region.

Ama Dablam appears incredibly close and dominates the surrounding landscape. The trail continues through yak pastures and stone-walled farming fields before reaching Dingboche.

Dingboche is beautifully located beneath towering Himalayan peaks and is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

Overnight in Dingboche.
- Max. Altitude: 4,410m (14,469 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 07 Acclimatization Day at Dingboche. Hike to Nangkartsang Peak and back.
Another important acclimatization day helps your body prepare for higher elevations. Today, you will hike to Nangkartsang Peak, which offers breathtaking views of Makalu, Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam.

After spending time at the viewpoint, you’ll descend back to Dingboche.

Overnight at Dingboche.
- Max. Altitude: 5,083 meters (16,676 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Day 08 Trek to Lobuche.
The trek today enters a harsher and more rugged Himalayan environment. After walking through alpine meadows and rocky landscapes, you’ll arrive at Dughla. From here, a steep climb leads to memorial sites dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on Everest expeditions. Beyond the memorial area, the trail follows the edge of the Khumbu Glacier.

Eventually, you will reach Lobuche.

Overnight in Lobuche.
- Max. Altitude: 4,910m (16,109 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 09 Trek to Everest Base Camp and then back to Gorak Shep (5,190 m/17,028 ft).
Today is one of the most exciting days of the trek. You begin with a hike to Gorak Shep, the final settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest, you’ll continue toward Base Camp. The trail follows rocky glacier paths beside the Khumbu Glacier. The high altitude makes walking slower and more physically demanding.

You will walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier and finally reach Everest Base Camp. Everest Base Camp is the dream destination for every trekker around the world.

During climbing season, you will see the colorful expedition tents on the glacier as climbers prepare to summit Mount Everest.

After spending quality time in the base camp, taking photographs, and admiring the scenery, you’ll trek back to Gorak Shep.

Overnight in Gorakshep.
- Max. Altitude: 5,364 meters (17,598 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 8-9 hours trek
Day 10 Early morning Hike to Kala Patthar and trek to Dzongla (4,830m).
Today begins very early, usually before sunrise, for the hike to Kala Patthar, which is the most famous viewpoint in the Everest region.

When the sun rises over the Himalayas, you will witness the Everest and the surrounding peaks glowing in beautiful shades of gold and orange. From Kala Patthar, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Lhotse, and other nearby peaks.

After spending time taking photographs and enjoying the sunrise, you’ll descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. After breakfast, you will walk towards the Dzongla. The trail crosses rugged high-altitude terrain beneath towering mountain walls.

You will cross several small streams and rocky paths before reaching the isolated settlement of Dzongla.

Overnight in Dzongla.
- Max. Altitude: 5,555 meters (18,225 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 11 Trek to Thangnak (4,850m) via Chola Pass.
Today is one of the most challenging and adventurous days of the trek. The trail crosses the icy Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. The day starts early, before sunrise, because crossing Cho La Pass is safer during stable morning weather conditions.

The trail immediately begins climbing steep rocky slopes above Dzongla. As the altitude increases, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and icy. The final climb to the top of the pass is steep and demanding.

Upon reaching Cho La Pass, you are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across the Himalayas. Prayer flags cover the pass while snow-covered peaks rise in every direction. You will witness the views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Lobuche East, Baruntse, and Gokyo Valley in the distance.

After spending time at the pass, the descent begins carefully across steep, rocky, and icy terrain. The downhill section can be slippery and tiring, especially near the glacier crossing.

Eventually, the trail reaches flatter terrain near the Ngozumpa Glacier before arriving at the small settlement of Thangnak. Thangnak is a quiet mountain village located beside the glacier and surrounded by enormous Himalayan peaks.

Overnight in Thangnak.
- Max. Altitude: 5,420 meters (17,782 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours trek
Day 12 Trek to Gokyo Lake.
The trail gradually ascends through the Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s largest glacier. The route includes several small ascents and descents over uneven glacial terrain.

As you approach the Gokyo Valley, the scenery suddenly transforms into one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Everest region.

The first of the famous Gokyo Lakes appears beneath towering snow-covered mountains. The lakes are known for their stunning turquoise color created by glacial meltwater.

The trail passes beside multiple lakes before reaching Gokyo Village, located on the shore of the third and largest Gokyo Lake.

Overnight in Gokyo village.
- Max. Altitude: 4,800 meters (15,748 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Day 13 Acclimatization day at Gokyo and hike to Gokyo Ri for sunrise view.
Today is one of the most scenic days of the entire trek.

Before sunrise, you will begin the steep climb to Gokyo Ri, the famous viewpoint overlooking the Gokyo Lakes and surrounding Himalayan giants. Although the hike is challenging due to the altitude, your eyes will be filled with stunning scenery around every step.

As the sun rises, golden light spreads across the peaks of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, and Pumori. Far below, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes shine beautifully against the dark rocky valley. The panoramic mountain view from Gokyo Ri is often considered one of the finest in all of Nepal.

After spending time at the summit for photography and rest, you’ll descend back to Gokyo Village for breakfast.

You can spend the remainder of the day relaxing beside the lake or exploring nearby glacial areas around the village.

Overnight in Gokyo village.
- Max. Altitude: 5,360m (17,585 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek
Day 14 Trek to Lungden (4,380m) via Renjo La Pass.
Today is another major highlight of the Everest Two Passes Trek, the crossing of Renjo La Pass. This high mountain pass offers one of the finest panoramic views in the entire Everest region.

The day begins early in the morning before sunrise. After breakfast, the trail gradually climbs out of Gokyo Village beside the turquoise glacial lakes.

As you continue climbing, you will find the trail steeper and rougher, so you should be more careful. You have to walk along the stone steps and rocky paths toward the pass. The pass altitude is above 5,000 meters, so the climb is challenging, and you should usually walk slowly and take short breaks along the way.

At the top of Renjo La Pass, colorful prayer flags flutter in the cold Himalayan wind, and your eyes will be filled with some of the world’s highest mountains rising in every direction. You will witness the towering peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and more.

After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, you will descend toward Lungden through rocky terrain, glacial valleys, and isolated yak-grazing areas.

Overnight in Lungden.
- Max. Altitude: 5,360m (17,585 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 15 Trek to Namche Bazaar via Thame village (3440m), and visit the Thame monastery.
After several days in remote high-altitude valleys, today’s trek gradually returns toward the greener and more populated parts of the Khumbu region.

Today’s trail passes through the traditional Sherpa village of Thame, known for its ancient monastery and rich mountaineering history. Many famous mountaineers, including several Everest summiteers, were born in this region.

After leaving Thame, the trail continues through pine forests, riverside paths, suspension bridges, and traditional villages. Eventually, you will reach Namche Bazaar.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
- Max. Altitude: 3,440m (11,286 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 16 Trek to Lukla.
Today is the final trekking day of the Everest Two Passes trek. After breakfast, you will descend steeply from Namche Bazaar through pine forests toward the Dudh Koshi River.

Along the way, you will pass through villages you encountered earlier in the trek, including Monjo, Jorsalle, Benkar, Phakding, etc. Although most of today’s route is downhill, there are still several uphill sections that can feel tiring after many days of trekking.

Finally, after several hours of trekking, you’ll arrive back in Lukla. This marks the successful completion of one of Nepal’s most challenging and rewarding treks.

Overnight in Lukla.
- Max. Altitude: 2,840m (9,318 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7 hours trek
Day 17 Fly back to Kathmandu.
Early in the morning, you’ll head to Lukla Airport for the scenic flight back to Kathmandu. As you take off from Lukla, you’ll enjoy one final aerial view of the Himalayas, deep valleys, and mountain villages below.

Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. You can rest for the remainder of the day or explore around the cultural sites of Kathmandu or the vibrant streets of Thamel.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Flight Duration: 20 minutes
- Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,600 feet)
- Accommodation: 3-star Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 45 minutes’ drive
- Flight Duration: 20 minutes flight
Day 18 Departure from Nepal.
Your unforgettable Everest Two Passes Trek comes to an end today.

Depending on your international flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

As you leave Nepal, you take with you your incredible memories of Everest Base Camp, the sunrise from Kala Patthar, the thrilling crossings of Cho La and Renjo La Passes, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, traditional Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.
- Meals: Breakfast (Lunch depending on the schedule)

Trip notes

It is strongly advised to include additional buffer days in Kathmandu, as the weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly and flights to Tenzing-Hillary Airport are frequently delayed. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

Trekking poles may make long descents considerably easier on the knees, and packing light with appropriate clothing is preferable to lugging heavy gear. Before departing Kathmandu, make sure you have enough Nepalese currency, as ATMs outside Namche Bazaar are unreliable.

Cost Includes

Airport picks up and drops off.
All necessary trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee, TIMS, or equivalent).
Round-trip airfare between Manthali/Kathmandu and Lukla.
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star, twin sharing)
Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek.
Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
Professional trekking guide and porter (1 porter for two trekkers).
Guide and porter insurance, salary, food, and lodging.
All government and local taxes.

Cost Excludes

International airfares.
Nepal entry visa fees.
All personal expenses, including alcohol & other beverages, trekking equipment, travel insurance, and more.
Extra expenses during the trek, like hot shower charge, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and any others.
Tips for the trekking guides and porters.
Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu if not on the planned itinerary.
Any expenses not mentioned in the “Includes” section.

When to visit

Average time to visit
Best time to visit
Good time to visit

FAQs for this trip

How difficult is the Everest Two Passes Trek?

The Everest Two Passes Trek is considered a challenging high-altitude trek. It involves long walking days, steep climbs, rocky trails, glacier sections, and two high passes above 5,300 meters.

No technical climbing skills are required, but you should be ready to walk 5–8 hours daily in mountain terrain.
What permits are required for the Everest Two Passes Trek?

You will need a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are usually included in the package.
What mountains can be seen during the Everest Two Passes Trek?

The Everest Two Passes Trek offers stunning views of famous Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. The panoramic mountain scenery is one of the biggest highlights of the Everest 2 Passes Trek.
What makes the Everest Two Passes Trek challenging?

You will have to walk through high altitude, cold temperatures, steep trails, and changing mountain weather. Along the way, you will also get rocky, icy glacier sections near Cho La Pass.

While crossing Cho La Pass and Renjo La Pass, you may need to start early in the morning, especially during windy or snowy conditions.
Can the weather affect the Everest Two Passes Trek itinerary?

Yes, the weather can sometimes affect the itinerary, especially during pass crossings and flights to or from Lukla Airport. Also, you may encounter heavy snow, strong winds, or poor visibility that may cause delays or route changes for safety reasons.
Is the Everest Two Passes Trek crowded?

The Everest Two Passes Trek is generally less crowded than the standard Everest Base Camp route because fewer trekkers choose the more demanding pass crossings. This allows trekkers to enjoy quieter trails and a more remote Himalayan experience.
Is the Everest Two Passes Trek suitable for beginner trekkers?

The Everest Two Passes Trek is generally recommended for trekkers with prior hiking experience due to the altitude, steep terrain, and long trekking days. Beginners with excellent fitness, strong determination, and proper preparation can still complete the trek successfully with the support of experienced guides.
Why choose the Everest Two Passes Trek?

The Everest Two Passes Trek is a great choice for trekkers looking for a more adventurous Everest experience.

The trek combines the excitement of crossing Cho La Pass and Renjo La Pass with beautiful mountain views, peaceful trails, glacier scenery, traditional Sherpa villages, and visits to famous Everest region highlights.