How to Trek the Everest Base Camp: a Guide to the Three Passes Route

In April 2018, I embarked on the adventure of a lifetime: the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek via the Three Passes Route, one of the most challenging yet rewarding trails in the Himalayas. Over 14 days, I navigated rugged landscapes, crossed high mountain passes, and reached iconic destinations like the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Ri. In this guide, I’ll share my experience, key tips, and practical advice to help you prepare for this incredible journey.

Preparation:

Carrying Your Gear:

I decided to carry my own backpack, but many trekkers hire a porter for approximately $20 per day. Porters can carry heavy loads, leaving you free to enjoy the trek without the physical strain. Hiring a porter also supports the local economy and ensures a more comfortable trek.

Essential Gear List:

Here’s a comprehensive list of recommended items for the trek:

• Clothing: Layers for varying weather, including thermal base layers, a down jacket, waterproof shell, and trekking pants.

• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and warm socks.

• Accessories: Gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses, and a headlamp.

• Camping Gear: Sleeping bag rated for -10°C or colder (unless staying in teahouses).

• Miscellaneous: A first-aid kit, trekking poles, water purification tablets, snacks, and sunscreen.

Begin your trek in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital. After settling in, I visited a local trekking agency to arrange my journey to the trailhead.

Reaching Lukla (the Starting Point):

There are two popular ways to get to Lukla, the starting point of most EBC treks:

1. Flight to Lukla: A short but thrilling 30-minute flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

2. Jeep Ride: A longer, rugged three-day drive is an option for those seeking a more economical or adventurous route.

I chose the flight, as it saved time and allowed me to start trekking right away.

Duration: 2–3 days

The trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa town in the Khumbu region, introduces lush greenery and cascading rivers.

Key Highlights:

• Phakding: The first stop is a relatively easy 4-hour hike to this small village.

• Suspension Bridges: Along the way, trekkers cross thrilling suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, offering stunning views of the Dudh Kosi River.

• Climb to Namche: The final push involves a steep ascent, but Namche’s vibrant markets and views of snow-capped peaks make it worthwhile.

recommendation:

Inside the town there is a small coffee house, they have the best brownie(as you can see in the photo)

Namche is a vital acclimatization point, where trekkers often spend an extra day exploring or hiking to nearby viewpoints like the Everest View Hotel.

Duration: 5–7 days

This leg involves ascending through increasingly rugged and snowy terrain.

Key Stops:

• Tengboche Monastery: A spiritual stop with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and other peaks.

• Dingboche and Lobuche: Small villages at higher altitudes, perfect for acclimatization and rest.

• Gorak Shep: The final stop before reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m).

Experience at Base Camp:

Base Camp is a hub for mountaineers preparing to summit Everest. Colorful expedition tents, towering icefalls, and the awe-inspiring Khumbu Glacier create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Duration: 3–4 days

After visiting Base Camp, trekkers head toward the stunning Gokyo Lakes via the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m).

Highlights:

• Cho La Pass: This high-altitude crossing is demanding but offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks.

• Gokyo Lakes: The turquoise alpine lakes are one of the most beautiful sights in the Himalayas.

• Gokyo Ri: A must-do side trek, this climb offers a 360-degree view of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.

Duration: 3–4 days

The return journey to Lukla involves crossing the Renjo La Pass (5,340m), which provides a quieter, scenic route back to Namche Bazaar.

Final Steps:

• Retrace the trail from Namche to Lukla, savoring the changing landscapes and easier descents.

• Take the flight back to Kathmandu, you can buy a ticket in the airport itself

finally you have completed the epic adventure.