Everest High Pass Trek

Accommodation & Food on the Trail

Accommodation: Simple but Friendly Teahouses

The Everest High Pass Trek is a “teahouse trek.” This means you will sleep in small lodges that are run by local people along the trail. These teahouses are basic but give you a warm place to rest after a long walk.

• Rooms: Most rooms are shared by two people. They have wooden walls and come with simple beds, foam mattresses, pillows, and blankets. There is usually no heater in the room. The dining area may have a stove in the middle to keep warm. You must carry a good sleeping bag to stay warm.
• Bathrooms: You will usually share bathrooms. At higher places, they are often squat toilets. In lower towns like Lukla, Phakding, or Namche Bazaar, you may find Western-style toilets.
• Hot Showers & Charging: You can get a hot shower or charge your phone, but you must pay extra. The higher you go, the more expensive it becomes. In places like Gokyo, Gorakshep, or Dzongla, the hot water may come from the sun or be given in a bucket. Charging your phone is allowed in common areas but may cost money too.
• Wi-Fi/Connectivity: In the lower villages, you may find Wi-Fi using Everest Link cards or SIM card data. But the higher you go, the weaker or no signal at all.

Tip: Always carry enough Nepali rupees (cash) with you. You need money to pay for hot water, charging, or Wi-Fi. Credit cards are not used in these areas, and ATMs are only in Lukla and Namche.

Food: Tasty Meals with Local and Familiar Choices

The food on the Everest trail gives you the energy needed to walk in the mountains. Meals are full of carbs to keep you strong and warm. Each teahouse uses a menu that is checked by tourism groups, so food is mostly the same in every village.

• Local Foods:
  • Dal Bhat Tarkari: This is rice with lentil soup and vegetables. You can get free refills, which is why many trekkers love it.
  • Potato Dishes: Potatoes are grown in the area. You’ll find them boiled, fried, mashed, or cooked in curry.
  • Sherpa Stew, Tibetan Bread, and Noodle Soups: These are warm and filling dishes, good for cold days.
• Western Foods:
  • You can also find pizza, pasta, pancakes, fried rice, chowmein, omelets, and sometimes burgers. These are more common in big villages like Namche, Gokyo, and Dingboche.

Be Careful with Meat: You may see meat on the menu, but don’t eat it after Namche Bazaar. There are no fridges at high places, and meat is carried by porters or yaks for many days. It may not be safe to eat and can make you sick.

Hydration: Staying Hydrated is Very Important

Drinking enough water is one of the most important things you can do at high altitude. It helps prevent altitude sickness and keeps your body working well.

• Try to drink at least 3 to 4 liters of safe water every day.
• Tap water is not safe to drink. You must treat it with iodine tablets, special drops, or use a SteriPEN. You can also buy boiled water from teahouses (this costs extra).
• Do not drink water from rivers or taps unless it’s treated. It can have germs that make you sick.

Tip: Carry two bottles—one with treated water and another for clean refills or adding electrolyte powder. Start drinking water early each day to stay ahead.

Final Thought

Knowing what to expect about simple places to sleep, food that gives you energy, and the need for safe water helps you prepare for the Everest High Pass Trek. This trek is not a luxury trip. It is a true Himalayan experience where you learn to enjoy the small things. If you get ready and understand what to expect, you will not only finish the trek—you will feel proud and strong.

Difficulty & Physical Preparation for a Hard Trek

The Everest High Pass Trek is not an easy walk. It is one of the hardest treks in Nepal. It is made for people who have already done hard treks before and want to push themselves. You need to be very fit and strong in your mind and body.

Difficulty Level: Very Hard to Extreme

Let’s make it clear—this trek is not for beginners. If this is your first high mountain trek or your first long trek, try something easier like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit first.

• Distance: You will walk around 166 km (103 miles) over 18 days.
• Height: This trek goes much higher than Everest Base Camp.
• High Points: You will stay above 5000 meters (16,400 feet) for many days. You will cross three big mountain passes and also visit Gokyo Ri, Kala Patthar, and Everest Base Camp.

You will walk for 6 to 10 hours most days. The trails are rough, sometimes icy, and not always marked clearly. You will also cross big glaciers like Ngozumpa Glacier, Cho La Glacier, and Kongma La Pass. The weather can change fast, it gets very cold, and you are far away from towns. This is why you need to be very strong.

Training for Everest High Pass Trek: Get Fit in Advance

To finish this trek safely and happily, you must start training months before. Try to train for 3 to 6 months before your trip.

Your training should include:

• Cardio Workouts:

Build your heart and lungs by running, swimming, biking, or climbing stairs. Do this for 45 to 90 minutes to practice long walking days.

• Strength Training:

Make your legs and core muscles strong with squats, lunges, planks, and lifting weights. This helps your body carry weight and stay balanced.

• Practice Hiking with Weight:

Walk with a backpack (10 to 15 kg) on hills or stairs. This trains the muscles you will use on the trek.

• Train at Altitude (if possible):

If you live near mountains, hike there to get used to less oxygen. You can also use high-altitude gyms if available.

• Mental Strength:

Be ready for pain, loneliness, and hard moments. The trail can be cold and tiring, and you will need to keep going even when it’s tough.

Mental & Emotional Readiness: Just as Important as Training

Being strong in your mind is just as important as being strong in your body. You must be ready for things to go wrong—bad weather, delays, feeling sick from the height, or not sleeping well.

You will need to go slowly, listen to your body, drink water often, and change your plans if needed. The mountains require patience and respect.

In Summary: Are You Truly Ready?

If you’ve already done other treks and are looking for a harder and deeper adventure, this trek is a big goal. But it is not easy. It is a real challenge that needs full training and strong willpower.

Train well. Be safe. Respect the height of the mountains.

With the right training and mindset, you will not just finish this trek—you will enjoy one of the greatest hiking adventures on Earth.

Best Time to Go: Seasons, Weather, and Crowds

Picking the right time to do the Everest High Pass Trek is very important. This trek includes going over several high passes that are more than 5,000 meters tall. You’ll cross remote glaciers and walk on different types of land, so weather matters a lot for both your safety and how much you enjoy the trip.

Here is a simple guide to help you understand the different seasons in the Everest region. It shows what kind of weather to expect, how crowded the trails will be, and what the trail will feel like.

Spring (March to May) – Colorful Trails and Beautiful Mountains

Spring is one of the best times to do the Everest High Pass Trek. The weather is usually good, the temperatures are not too bad, and nature looks amazing.

• Weather: Usually calm and clear, with not much snow on the high passes
• Temperatures: Cold at night but nice during the day for walking
• Scenery: Rhododendron flowers bloom at lower heights, adding bright colors
• Crowds: It’s a popular time but not too busy, especially if you stay away from the main Everest Base Camp trail
• Pass Conditions: Most high passes are open and easy to walk with the right gear

Best for: People who want beautiful views, good trail conditions, and a friendly number of other trekkers.

Autumn (September to November) – Best Season for Clear Views

Autumn is the most popular time to trek in Nepal. After the summer rains are gone, the air becomes clear and fresh, and you get the best mountain views. This season is known for its safety and beauty.

• Weather: Very stable—dry, clear, and cool
• Temperatures: Nice during the day, cold or very cold at night
• Scenery: No dust, clean trails, and clear views of Everest and other peaks
• Crowds: This is the busiest season, especially in villages like Namche
• Pass Conditions: Great. There’s usually very little snow, and trails are well-marked

Best for: Trekkers who want perfect photos, safe conditions, and easy access over the passes, even if they have to share the path with more people.

Monsoon (June to August) – Wet, Slippery, and Quiet

In summer, the monsoon brings lots of rain. This makes it the least popular time for the Everest High Pass Trek. But for very experienced trekkers, it can still be an exciting and different kind of adventure.

• Weather: Heavy rain, clouds, and few mountain views
• Trail Conditions: Paths are muddy and slippery, with leeches in lower areas
• Flight Issues: Flights to and from Lukla often get delayed or canceled due to bad visibility
• Scenery: Very green valleys, fast rivers, and moody skies
• Crowds: Almost no other trekkers, which means quiet trails and peaceful villages

Best for: Experienced trekkers who want to be alone and don’t mind getting wet or missing the views. Not a good time for beginners.

Winter (December to February) – Snowy Quiet and Big Views

Winter turns the Everest area into a cold and quiet place that looks like a dream. But the cold can be very hard to deal with, and only well-prepared trekkers should try it.

• Weather: Dry but very cold, and snow may close the passes for a while
• Temperatures: Extremely cold above 4,000 meters. At night, it can go below -20°C (-4°F)
• Trail Conditions: Snow and ice on the passes. You will need an ice axe, crampons, and trekking poles
• Crowds: Almost no one else. The trails and villages are peaceful but many teahouses are closed
• Logistics: Fewer services, fewer open lodges, and a bigger chance of passes being closed

Best for: Very experienced and well-equipped trekkers who want to be alone and see the mountains in their most wild and icy form. You must be very well prepared.

Weather Can Change Fast – Be Ready Anytime

No matter what season you choose, the weather in the mountains can change quickly. A clear day can turn into a snowstorm or strong wind without warning. Even during the best seasons, nights can be very cold and it can still snow on the passes.

Smart Planning Tips

• Always bring clothes for all weather: layers, raincoats, and warm gear
• Add 1 or 2 extra days to your schedule in case flights are delayed or the weather changes
• Be ready to change your path if a pass becomes too dangerous to cross

When Should You Go Trekking

The best time for the Everest High Pass Trek is usually late March to mid-May or late September to early November. During these times, the weather is the most stable and the trail is in the best shape. But every season has its own special feel. You should choose your time based on how experienced you are, what kind of adventure you want, and how well you can handle the unexpected things that can happen in the mountains.

Permits and Rules You Must Follow in 2025

If you plan to do the Everest High Pass Trek in 2025 or later, it’s very important to get the right permits and follow the new rules. These rules are made to keep trekkers safe, protect the environment, and support local people. If you don’t follow the rules, you might not be allowed to do the trek.

Two Permits You Must Have (Updated for 2025)

To trek legally in the Everest area, you need two permits:

1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (SNP)

• Who needs it: Everyone entering Sagarmatha National Park
• Cost: NPR 3,000 (about $25 USD) per person
• Where to get it:
  • In Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board Office
  • On the trail at the checkpoint in Monjo
• Why it’s needed: It helps pay for nature protection and trail work in the park

2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit (KPL)

• Who needs it: Everyone going to places like Lukla, Namche, and beyond
• Cost: NPR 2,000 to 3,000 (about $20 to $25 USD), based on exchange rates
• Where to get it:
  • Only in Lukla or Monjo
  • Note: You cannot get this permit in Kathmandu
• Important: This replaces the old TIMS card, which is no longer needed in the Everest area

New Rule for 2025: You Must Have a Licensed Guide

Starting in 2025, Nepal has a new rule. Foreign trekkers are not allowed to hike alone in most places, including the Everest High Pass route.

• What this means
  • All foreign trekkers must go with a licensed Nepali guide
  • You are not allowed to hike alone, even if you have done it before
  • You must book your trek through a registered trekking company in Nepal
• Why this rule exists
  • To keep trekkers safe, especially in hard-to-reach places like the high passes
  • To help local people by creating jobs
  • To make search and rescue easier if someone gets lost or hurt

Reminder: If you are found trekking without a guide or without the correct permits, you can be fined, sent back, or banned from finishing your trek.

What Documents You Need

To get permits or register with a trekking company, you usually need:

• A valid passport (original and copies)
• 2 to 4 passport-size photos
• A trekking plan (with entry and exit points, dates, and places to sleep)
• Emergency contact information
• Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking

Respect the Mountains and the People

Trekking in the Everest area is not just about walking. It’s also about respecting the place and the people who live there.

Things to Remember

• Take all trash with you and use bins in the villages
• Respect local culture:
  • Dress modestly in towns and monasteries
  • Ask before taking pictures of people or holy places
  • If someone invites you to join a tradition, be polite and respectful
• Altitude Safety Tracking:
  • GPS tracking devices are not yet required for this trek, but they are required for very high climbs above 8,000 meters. In the future, more high-altitude treks may need this too

Summary of Permit Costs for Everest High Pass Trek (as of 2025)

Be responsible. Walk legally. Respect the area.

Following these new rules and hiring a licensed guide keeps you safe and also helps support the people and environment of the Everest region.

Important Packing List for the High Pass Trek (for Altitude & Weather)

Getting ready for the Everest High Pass Trek needs more than excitement. You must plan your clothes and gear carefully. You’ll walk over rough trails, cross three high passes (Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La), and face weather changes—from hot days to very cold nights. This list will help you stay safe, warm, and ready.

Clothing: Dress in Layers

Base Layers (close to skin)

• 2–3 thermal tops (wool or synthetic, no cotton)
• 2–3 thermal bottoms (light for day, thicker for night)

Middle Layers (keep you warm)

• 1 fleece or synthetic jacket
• 1 down vest or jacket (light and easy to pack)

Outer Layers (protect from rain and wind)

• 1 waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex is best)
• 1 waterproof pant (zippers on the side help you wear it fast)

Why layers: Mountain nights can go below -15°C (5°F). Wearing layers lets you stay comfortable as the temperature changes.

Footwear: Strong and Comfortable

• Main boots: Waterproof, high-ankle, broken-in, with good grip
• Camp shoes or sandals: For relaxing at night
• Socks: 4–6 pairs of thick trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
• Sock liners: 1–2 pairs (help prevent blisters)

Tip: Keep feet dry and warm to avoid blisters and other problems.

Hats & Gloves: Protect Head and Hands

• Sun hat or cap with neck cover (for sun)
• Warm beanie (fleece or wool)
• Neck gaiter or scarf (keeps out wind, dust, and sun)
• Light gloves (quick-drying)
• Warm waterproof gloves or mittens (for high passes and cold mornings)

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag for -15°C (5°F) or colder
• Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and keeps bag clean)

Note: Blankets in teahouses are basic and not always warm enough. A good sleeping bag is very important.

Trekking Gear

• Daypack (30–40L): To carry things you need during the day
• Duffel bag (80–100L): Carried by the porter
• Trekking poles (adjustable, help with balance)
• Headlamp and spare batteries (for early walks and nights)
• Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L total)
• Water filter or tablets
• Rain cover for both bags

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap
• Quick-dry towel
• Toilet paper (very important)
• Wet wipes (good when you can’t shower)
• Feminine hygiene items (if needed)
• Small first aid kit (for cuts, blisters, pain)

Electronics

• Power bank (10,000 mAh or more)
• Universal adapter (Nepal uses Type C/D/M, 220V)
• Camera and extra batteries/memory cards
• Charging cables for your devices

Important Documents

• Passport (original and copies)
• Nepal visa (get at the airport or online)
• Flight tickets (Kathmandu and Lukla)
• Trekking permits (SNP and KPL)
• Travel insurance (must include rescue)
• 2–4 passport photos (for permits)

Optional but Very Useful Items

• Gaiters (keep snow, mud, and rocks out of your boots)
• Microspikes or crampons (if snow/ice is on the trail)
• Ice axe (ask your company if needed)
• Small thermos (warm tea or soup helps morale)
• Lightweight book or journal (for quiet time)

Real-Life Packing Advice

• Pack light but smart. Porters carry 20kg (shared between 2 people), but your daypack should be under 6–8kg.
• Label your things. Many trekkers use similar items, so names help avoid mix-ups.
• Try your gear before your trip. Especially boots, jacket, and backpack.

Conclusion: Gear Up to Go Higher

Packing for the Everest High Pass Trek is not just about putting clothes in your backpack. It is about planning carefully for high altitude, big changes in temperature, and being able to take care of yourself. With the right gear, your trek changes from just a challenge to an amazing journey in the Himalayas. Use this checklist to stay safe, feel comfortable, and be ready for anything the trail brings.

Responsible Trekking & Environmental Impact

Trekking in the Himalayas is more than just a physical trip. It is a chance to travel carefully and leave a good impact. We believe in respecting nature, culture, and the people who live here. Here is how we do responsible trekking in Nepal to protect the environment and help local communities.

Leave No Trace: Nature First

We follow the Leave No Trace rules strictly:

• We carry out all our waste, including plastic and other trash that does not break down.
• We do not use single-use plastics because clean water is available by filtering or boiling along the trek.
• We only walk on marked trails to protect the fragile mountain environment and avoid disturbing animals.
• We give all trekkers tips on packing in a way that helps nature before the trek starts.

This keeps the Everest area clean and beautiful for the future.

Supporting Local Communities: Trek with Purpose

We are proud to help and support local people:

• More than 80% of our trekking staff, such as guides, porters, and cooks, are from the local area.
• We work with family-owned teahouses and lodges so money goes directly to mountain villages.
• Whenever possible, we buy food from local farmers. This helps the environment by reducing transport and supports the local economy.

When you trek with us, your trip helps many people in the Khumbu region.

Our Commitment to the Region

We do more than just trekking. Our social responsibility projects include:

• Supporting local schools and health clinics with donations and volunteer work.
• Working with conservation projects that focus on planting trees, providing clean water, and fixing trails.
• Helping Sherpa community projects that improve education, safety training, and emergency readiness.

Respecting Culture: Trekking with Humility

Respecting culture is as important as caring for nature. We give cultural guidance about:

• Dress codes: It is important to dress modestly, especially near sacred or monastery places.
• Photography rules: Always ask before taking photos of local people or religious sites.
• Basic language and greetings: Learning a few Nepali or Sherpa words helps you connect with people.
• How to behave around religious monuments: Walk around stupas clockwise and turn prayer wheels in the right direction.

Being respectful helps you enjoy your trip more and build real friendships with Sherpa communities.

By using eco-friendly ways, hiring people fairly, and respecting culture, our treks do more than explore the Himalayas—they honor them. Choose the Everest High Pass Trek not just for the amazing views but also for the values it shows.