Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most exciting and beautiful treks in Nepal. It takes you to three high mountain crossings – Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,340 m). Along the way, you will see the wonderful view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and many other long mountain ranges.
This trek is more difficult than the Everest Base Camp Trek, but it is perfect for those who want a great adventure and see more places in the Everest region. The trail passes through beautiful valleys, small villages, and low crowded paths.
If you are planning this hike, you may want to know:
“How much does the Everest Three Passes Trek?“
This blog will help you fully understand the Everest Three Passes Trek cost and with complete transparency. We will also clearly explain what is included in the package and what extra cost you should expect. This way, you can plan your budget well and enjoy the trip without worry.
Everest Three Passes Trek Cost Overview
Everest Three Passes Trek is a long and courageous journey in the Everest region. It usually takes about 18 to 21 days to complete it. The trek cost depends on many things. These may be the number of people in your group, the type of service you are choosing, and the time of the year you are planning to trek.
For our trekkers, the standard Everest Three Passes trek cost lies between USD 1,450–USD 1,650. This package usually includes everything required for trek – such as domestic flights, a licensed guide, porter service, accommodation in tea houses, meals during the trek, and trekking permits.
Luxury or customized packages with premium hotels, private transfers, and upgraded meals can cost USD 2,500 or more. Here are the main factors that affect this guided Everest three passes trek price:
Group size
If you trek with more people, the cost per person will be more affordable. Solo trekkers or couples may need to pay more for a private guide and porter. If you want a more budget-friendly trip to Three Passes, consider joining a group.
Trekking period
Most of the Three Passes Trek packages are 18 to 21 days long, depending on the route and rest days. If you add an extra day (for side tours or acclimatization), the total Everest Three Passes trek cost may increase.
Services include
Some companies provide extra services like sleeping bags, and rental of jackets, and airport transfer. Cheaper packages may not include these, so it is important to compare what is being offered.
Travel Season
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best trekking seasons. However, these are also the busiest, so flights, cabins, and guides can cost more. During the months of winter or monsoon, the costs can be lower due to fewer crowds, but the weather can be more difficult.
Comfort level
The standard package includes basic tea houses and local food. If you want a luxury Everest Three Passes Trek with better lodges, attached bathrooms, or private rooms, you obviously have to pay more. Some high-class packages may also include portable oxygen, a satellite phone, or a backup of a helicopter.
Costs Covered by the Three Pass Everest Package
The Everest Three Passes Trek package, introduced by Nepal Mountain Adventure, is a well appreciated plan. This covers almost everything required during the journey – from arrival to departure. Below is a broad overview of each inclusion with a clear explanation.
Transport
Round-Trip Domestic Flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu or Ramechhap–Lukla)
The trek starts from Lukla. The roadway is not available to reach there. Due to this, trekkers have to take a local Kathmandu to Lukla flight. These flight trips are short- about 30 to 35 minutes – but scenic and thrilling. The fare for a trip to Lukla and return generally costs USD 350 per person but are included in your package. It also includes all airport taxes, luggage fees (usually 10 kg check-in + 5 kg of hand carry) and airlines handling charges.
Ground transport from Ramechhap (if necessary)
During the busy seasons (March-May and September-November), flights go to Lukla from Ramechhap instead of Kathmandu due to air traffic. In that case, your trekking company will provide you with a private or shared transport (usually a Jeep or Tourist Bus) to drive you 4-5 hours to the Ramechhap Airport and 4-5 hours to get back. The required price is often between USD 30 – USD 50 for ground transport to Lukla.
Pickup from the airport and drop off in Kathmandu
Your journey begins and ends in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, a staff of Nepal Mountain Adventure takes you to the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel. After the trip, they will leave you at the airport for the departure flight. This ensures a comfortable and trouble-free start and end for the trip. If you have to do that by yourself, it can cost you USD 20 – 30 in total.
Trekking Guide and Porter Services
Licensed and experienced trekking guide
You will be accompanied by a certified trekking guide who can speak fluent English. Our guides are well trained in mountain security and first aid. They are your most important support throughout the trip. They will help you with route navigation, manage teahouses, order food, ensure your safety at great heights, and share local knowledge of the region’s culture and landscape.
Porters to carry the bags
One porter is provided for each two trekkers. A porter usually carries a total of 20-25 kg (10–12.5 kg per trekker), so you can trek freely with just a little daypack. This makes the trip much more comfortable.
Guidance and porter’s Wages, Food, Accommodation, and insurance
All costs for your guide and the porter are included in the Everest Three Passes trek package. It covers their daily wages, food, accommodation, trekking equipment, and medical insurance. You do not need to pay them separately until you offer a tip as a sign of gratitude. A normal wage of a guide is USD 25 – USD 30 per day, and that of the porter is USD 15 – USD 25 per day. Overall, it may require around USD 250 – 300 for total guide and porter costs in the Everest Three Passes Trek.
First aid kit provided by the guide
The guide has a basic first aid kit that includes normal medications and supplies to treat minor injuries, headaches, stomach problems, or symptoms of altitude sickness. For serious health problems, guides are trained to arrange emergency rescue or helicopter withdrawal if necessary.
Permits and Entry Fees
Sagarmatha National Park’s Permit
This government permit is compulsory to enter Sagarmatha National Park, a protected area covering the Everest region. As of July 2025, the permit costs NPR 3000 per person (Approx USD 22). This money is used in the maintenance of the trail. The fee is included in the package and is organized by your trekking company, Nepal Mountain Adventure.
Khumbu Pasang Lamu Rural Municipality Permit
There is a local permit introduced by the rural municipality in the Everest region. It is issued at the entry point of Lukla and is required for all trekkers. Generally, the cost is NPR 2000 per trekker (Approx USD 15). Without this permit, you will not be allowed to continue ahead.
Permit handling and paperwork
You do not need to stand in line or handle government papers. Everything related to the permit and entry passes will be arranged under the package.
Accommodation and food
Lodge/Teahouse during the Trek
The accommodation is arranged in the traditional tea houses – the small hotels in the Everest trail comprising basic facilities. The rooms are usually basic, with double beds, mattresses, pillows and warm carpets. Bathrooms are often shared, especially at high altitude. Expect to pay USD 5 – 7 at the lower region and USD 8 – 10 at the higher altitude for rooms, when going on your own.
The package includes three prepared meals per day while trekking. This includes options such as toast, porridge, eggs, pancakes, or Tibetan bread with tea/coffee for breakfast. Lunch and dinner include local dishes such as rice, pasta, noodles, or soup. You will have many options in each of the teahouses. The meals are chosen especially for providing you essential energy for long days of hiking. An expense of USD 400 -500 can be estimated for the meals on your Everest Three Passes trek cost.
Equipment and Trekking Gears
Most trekking companies, including Nepal Mountain Adventure, can organize rented trekking gear and sleeping bags. Renting them on your own can cost you USD 1 – 2 per day. These are very important, especially on high passes such as Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La. After the trip, return them in good condition.
Duffle bag for goods
Your personal equipment is packed in a duffel bag (we can arrange one for you ) and carried by the porter. You have to carry only your daypack with your essential things like water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, and documents. Estimate to pay USD 10 – 15 if paying separately.
Pre-trek briefing
Before the trek starts, the company will give you a detailed trip briefings. This includes trekking advice, daily plans, information about height, package tips, and a list of dos and don’ts. It helps you feel safe and ready for your journey ahead.
Tax and Service Charge
All government Taxes
Any VAT (Value Added Tax), or tourism-related fees imposed by the government are included in your packages. Usually, 13% of the total charge is paid to the government by your agency.
Service fee and administration support
The package also covers the agency’s service charge. It includes giving you 24/7 assistance, handling bookings, and making all non-personal expenses on your behalf. Its value is USD 50 – 100.
Costs Not Covered by the Everest Three Pass Package
International and pre-trek costs
International flights from Nepal
The cost of international flights is not included in the trekking package. You must book them on your own. Ticket prices are different based on your country of departure, the weather and climate, and how early you book. Normally, travelers from the United States, Europe, or Australia can expect to pay between USD 700 to 1200 for a return ticket. Flights are often cheaper during the off-season and are more expensive in the spring and autumn.
Nepal visa fee
Each foreign visitor must receive a tourist visa to enter Nepal. You can get a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The cost depends on the number of days you plan to stay in Nepal:
- 15 days: USD 30
- 30 days: USD 50
- 90 days: USD 125
Be sure to carry cash (preferably USD) and your passport-sized photo for the visa process.
The hotel in Kathmandu before and after the trek
Your trekking package usually starts and ends at the airport, not your hotel. Therefore, staying in Kathmandu before and after the trip is not included in the Everest Three Passes trek cost. Most trekkers come to Nepal early to rest 1-2 nights before the trek and rest one more night after the trek. Hotel prices vary in Kathmandu: Budget hotel costs around USD 25-40 per night, mid-class hotels cost 50-70 USD, and luxury hotels can go up to USD 100 or more per night.
Insurance and emergency
Travel insurance with high altitude and rescue coverage
It is mandatory to have travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking (up to 6000 meters), medical treatment, and helicopter evacuations. This won’t be given by the trekking agency. That means you have to get it on your own, and also before your arrival. Depending on your supplier and home country, the costs of USD 100 to 150 may be charged for 30 days of travel insurance. It is important to double-check that your policy includes helicopter rescue, as it is often excluded by default.
Emergency costs (if necessary)
If you suffer from severe altitude sickness, damage, or other emergency conditions in remote areas, you may need to be rescued by a helicopter. The cost of emergency evacuation without insurance can be very expensive – between USD 3000 and USD 5000, depending on your location. Without proper insurance, trekkers may also have to pay in advance before ordering the helicopters, which can cause dangerous delays.
Individual expenses
Bottled water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages
The package includes basic food and tea or coffee, but not bottled water or other drinks. In the mountains, bottled water costs 1-3 USD per liter at low altitudes and up to 4-5 USD at higher altitudes. Soft drinks and beers are also expensive in remote areas, often costing 3-6 USD per bottle. During the trip, you are expected to spend USD 50-100 on drinks, depending on your habits, and relatively increasing the Everest Three Passes trek cost.
Personal snacks and energy bars
While food is offered, most trekkers take their own snacks such as chocolate, nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars to eat on the trail. They are either brought from home or purchased in Kathmandu before the trip. Their prices in the mountains are very high. For buying in the city, a budget of 30-50 USD will be sufficient for the entire trip.
Personal trekking equipment (shoes, jackets, poles, etc.)
Your package does not include personal gear such as trekking boots, waterproof clothing, gloves, hats, or a trekking pole. You can either rent or buy them in Kathmandu. Depending on the brand and quality, these things can cost you around USD 200-500 to buy new ones.
Please note that having rentals is cheaper, but always make sure the gear is in good condition.
Lodge facilities that are not covered
Wi-Fi access and mobile charging
Many tea houses provide Wi-Fi, but it is usually slow and comes with a cost. In lower areas, it may be free or cost 2-3 USD per hour, while WiFi cost in higher regions can go up to SD 5-6 per hour. Charging the telephone, camera, or power bank also costs extra. The cost can be 2-5 USD per unit. Throughout the trip, you may spend 30-60 USD on connection and charging.
Hot showers in tea houses
A hot shower on the mountain is not always free. In many tea houses, especially over 3000 meters, you have to pay for them. A single shower usually costs USD 3-6. If you take multiple hot showers during the trip, the budget will go up to 30-50 USD for the trek..
Laundry service
When you are on the trek, laundry services are rare. Most people wash small items by hand or wait until they return to Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, full laundry services are available and a cost of approximately USD 1-2 per item. You can avoid high laundry bills by packing extra clothes and quick-drying ones.
Tips and Optionals
Although tipping is not compulsory, it is a great way to show gratitude to your support team. Your guides are the ones to show you the way to achieve your ambitions, and the porters are the carriers of your heavy loads, who have made your experience better. If you wish, tipping them with USD 100 – 150 for an entire trek is reasonable. If you somehow need another porter to carry your load. One who carries 25kg of loads can be hired at USD 20 – 25 per day.
Optionally and unquestionably, if you wish to buy some souvenirs, flags, batches, or handicrafts, it will be your personal expense. You can separate USD 100 or a little more for these.
Everest Three Passes Trek Cost Summary Table (Per Person)
| Catagory | Estimated Cost (USD) | Remarks |
| Trekking Package | 1,450 – 1,650 | Includes guides, porters, permits, food, and accommodation |
| International Flights | 700 – 1,200 | Arriving and Departing from Nepal |
| Nepal Visa Fee | 50 (30-day visa) | Receive on arrival |
| Hotel in Kathmandu (Pre/Post-Trek) | 50 – 200 | Optional |
| Travel Insurance (High Altitude) | 100 – 150 | Must cover 6000m + helicopter rescue |
| Trekking Gear | 150 – 400 | Buy or Rent |
| Drinks and Snacks on Trek | 100 – 200 | Bottled water, alcohol, and soft drinks |
| Wi-Fi, Charging, Hot Showers | 60 – 100 | Price increases with height |
| Tips for Guide and Porter | 100 – 150 | Recommended |
| Extra Porter | 400 – 450 | Optional |
| Shopping, Donations, Souvenirs | 30 – 100 | Optional |
Conclusion – Budget Ready?
The Three Passes trek of Everest provides challenging and unforgettable experience. Being harder than the Everest Base Camp, the trek forces the trekkers to think twice before challenging it. But, because of being equally rewarding, the trek is chosen by hundreds of trekkers throughout a trekking season.
A trekker must distinguish the best package of the Everest Three Passes Trek before choosing one. And the best package must provide you with the best experience at an affordable budget. No high-priced package can guarantee the best experience, and cheaper ones may also compromise the quality. With that in mind, this transparent cost breakdown was designed to help you know how to budget for the Everest Three Passes Trek.
The total Everest Three Passes trek cost ranges from USD1,450 to USD1,650, covering your guide, permits, flights, meals, and accommodation. When you add personal expenses like insurance, snacks, tips, and hotels in Kathmandu, your total trip budget will likely be around USD2,800 to USD3,200.
Knowing these costs in advance helps you plan smart and travel stress-free.
Ready to take on the Three Passes?
Contact us today to book your trek or ask any questions — we’re here to help you make it happen!
