The Three Passes Trek is the ultimate Everest experience. The route takes us through all the highlights, in terms of both mountain views and the local culture, combining everything in a single journey through the Everest region.
However, this hike is a challenging one. Keep reading to find out how to start preparing for the trip now.
Getting there and getting started
The common starting point of the Three Passes Trek is the mountain airport of Lukla. Since there are no direct flights to get there, you would need a take 30-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu, Nepal.
Before you can start hiking, though, like other treks in the Everest region, you’re going to need a TIMS, and Sagarmatha National Park permit. If you’re traveling through a trekking agency, they will arrange these for you. However, if you’re going on the trek yourself, you’ll have to pick up your TIMS permit in Kathmandu, and your Sagarmatha National Park permits in Monjo, a village checkpoint you pass on the first day of your trek.
When to go?
The most successful season for the Three Passes Trek is the same as the Everest Base Camp: the fall, around September to November.
Yes, spending the winter in the Himalayas does sound scary. But the truth is that it is without a doubt, the best time to visit. Most people expect the winter months in the Himalaya to bring a ton of snow, covering the beautiful sights and making it impossible to hike through.
However, those people are wrong. Almost every day, you can look up and expect to see clear skies with very little precipitation. Make sure to pack an extra layer because it can get a bit chilly.
Trekking requirements
There is no need to worry. You don’t need any technical climbing or mountaineering skills, such as the use of ice axes or crampons for this route. Yes, this is a trek that is classified as challenging and tough, but that’s due to the high altitudes you are going to encounter. Now that is something you want to be comfortable with.
Hikers who embark on this route should be familiar or have some experience with high altitude treks and be relatively comfortable. This is why it’s suggested that only experienced trekkers make the journey to this specific region and go in this particular trek.
A couple more tips
- Don’t underestimate the importance of training before you go. Every minute you spend completing practice hikes or training in the gym will go a long way. It’ll allow you to spend more time taking in your environment rather than huffing and puffing every few seconds, so you catch your breath, making your journey that much more enjoyable.
- While you should pay attention to your physical preparation, don’t forget to hone your mental development as well. Practice hikes will go a long way for both types of qualifications, helping you develop good habits for the journey.
- Although no thinking equipment is required, there’s no harm in investing in a good pair of hiking boots or shoes to help make your experience more enjoyable. However, make sure to break them in beforehand, so you don’t get blisters during your hike.
- Just take it friendly and comfortable and don’t rush any of the days. It’s going to be a long, strenuous journey, but your group will be there to support you each step of the way.
- Snacks are essential. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you otherwise. They’ll be lifesavers when your energy levels are low or when you’re feeling hungry but can’t eat dinner. You know who to thank when it happens.
- And don’t forget to pack a couple of packets of your favorite brand of instant coffee or tea from home. They may sound like unnecessary items now, but trust us, they’re not.
