The Everest 3 Peak Challenge is a thrilling 30-day expedition designed for those keen to elevate their mountaineering skills in Nepal's breathtaking Himalayas. This adventure includes climbing three iconic peaks: Mera Peak (6,476 m), Island Peak (6,189 m), and Lobuche East Peak (6,119 m).
Unlike extreme expeditions like climbing Annapurna, Mount Everest, Manaslu, etc., the Everest 3 Peak challenge is beginner-friendly. But you need to have previous experience with multiple high pass trekking, like the Everest 3 Pass Trek, Throng La, Larke La, etc., or should've at least climbed a 6,000 m mountain.
Highlights of the Everest 3 Peak challenge
# Extreme Himalayan Adventure
# Introduction to mountaineering: Familiarize yourself with mountaineering terminology, equipment, and technical gear - a must for 7,000 m and 8,000 m peaks.
# Understand your limits: Acquire and understand the extensive fitness and mental preparedness required for the above 7,000 peaks.
You will arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will meet your guide, who will accompany you to your hotel.
In the evening, you will join a program briefing with your group members. In case you arrive late at night, you will meet your group members the next day at breakfast, during which you will also be briefed about your program.
In most cases, you will arrive at Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will meet your guide who will accompany you to your hotel. In Thamel, you can explore cultural sites like the Garden of Dreams and nearby temples, shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, experience local arts and crafts, and enjoy the nightlife with plenty of options of pubs, bars, nightclubs, and eateries.
You'll navigate Kathmandu city's initial traffic before joining the well-maintained B.P. Koirala Highway - the urban sprawl gives way to rolling green landscapes, dotted with charming terraced farmlands and glimpses of traditional Nepali village life. Your destination today is the Taj Riverside Resort & Adventure, a beautiful property located right beside the majestic Sunkoshi River. This comfortable drive to Mulkot is a deliberate choice, designed to enhance your expedition experience. By spending your first night at Taj Riverside Resort, you effectively cut down on the driving distance for the following day, bypassing the need for an extremely early start from Kathmandu to catch the unpredictable Ramechhap flights to Lukla. Instead, you'll wake up closer to your climbing plan, fresh and ready to proceed with a smoother, more predictable journey towards Phaplu, putting you directly on track for the first challenge: Mera Peak.
You'll embark on a journey that further transitions you from the more accessible plains into the mountainous terrain of the Solukhumbu region. You'll notice the landscape becoming increasingly rugged. The views will shift from the wider river plains to more enclosed valleys, with hillsides clad in dense forests and interspersed with small, traditional villages. You'll witness daily life in rural Nepal unfolding outside your window, with terraced fields clinging to slopes and local markets bustling in small towns along the route. At Phaplu (2,413 m), you'll check into a comfortable tea house lodge, ready to immerse yourself in the authentic mountain atmosphere. The key places of interest include the local monastery at Phaplu, Phaplu airport, and views of Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
You head deeper into Sherpa country with beautiful views of mountains, villages, rivers, and the general countryside as you drive on a dirt road. You'll descend towards the Dudh Koshi River valley, passing through scattered hamlets and patches of dense sub-tropical and temperate forests. A key point on this drive is Khari Khola, a notable village that serves as a common waypoint for trekkers in this region. This is where many traditional walking routes from the lower Solu-Khumbu began. From Khari Khola, the road becomes even more indicative of the wilder, less-traveled paths ahead. The jeep will climb steadily, often through switchbacks, offering increasingly grand vistas of the surrounding valleys and distant hills. You'll gain significant altitude on this leg, as Pangom sits at a higher elevation. At Pangom, you'll get to interact with the local people, visit the Pangom monastery, and prepare for the trek.
After a hearty breakfast at your tea house in Pangom, you'll start your ascent. The trail immediately takes you upwards, often quite steeply, as you begin to gain significant altitude. The initial sections lead you through dense and vibrant rhododendron and bamboo forests, particularly stunning if you are trekking in the spring when these flowers are in bloom. A key feature of this trek is crossing the Pangom La Pass (3,176 m), a prominent point that offers your first taste of expansive mountain views. From here, the trail turns north, meandering along a steady path that provides glimpses into the hidden valleys below. Along the way, you'll cross small streams like the Peseng Kharka Khola and pass through small settlements, including Ningsow village. The final push to Ramailo Danda (3,276 m) is hard but offers distant views of the majestic Numbur Himal, Kongde, Manju Peak, and Mera Peak - standing proudly in the distance, a preview of the grand objective ahead.
Setting off from Ramailo Danda, you'll begin a substantial downhill trek that will lead you through a landscape dominated by dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak. The path can be rugged and sometimes uneven, with roots and stones underfoot, requiring careful footing. As you descend, you'll pass by numerous small streams and rivulets. This part of the route skirts the periphery of the Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area renowned for its biodiversity. While deep forest trekking, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and, if you're incredibly lucky, you might spot rare wildlife such as the elusive red panda or Himalayan black bear. The trail, sometimes referred to as a segment of the "Pasang Lhamu trail," offers continuous views of the lush, untamed valleys. Your journey will eventually bring you to Chhatra Khola (2,800 m), a remote and often basic teahouse or camp location situated beside a stream.
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Departing from Kothe, the trail primarily follows the western bank of the Hinku Khola. The path is relatively gentle compared to previous days, involving a gradual ascent as you move upstream. You'll continue to trek through thinning forests, where the trees become more stunted and give way to open, expansive landscapes. A significant highlight of this segment is passing Lungsumgba Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery believed to be around 200 years old. This serene spiritual site, often with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, provides a moment of reflection amidst the grandeur of the mountains. You might also spot ancient rock carvings or "Mani stones" with Buddhist inscriptions, adding to the cultural richness of the journey. The most striking sight will be the magnificent Mera Peak, whose formidable face becomes more prominent and inspiring as you approach. You'll see parts of the massive glaciers that feed the Hinku River, a testament to the raw power of the Himalayas.
The primary activity for the day will be a rewarding acclimatization hike to a nearby viewpoint, often referred to as Thangnag Ri - it is a prominent ridge above the settlement. This "climb high, sleep low" strategy is a cornerstone of safe mountaineering. The hike itself will be a steady ascent from Thangnag, typically taking a few hours round trip. The trail winds upwards on rocky terrain, with sparse vegetation, offering increasingly expansive views with every step. You'll move slowly and deliberately, focusing on your breathing and listening to your body's signals, as your guide leads the way. As you gain elevation on Thangnag Ri, the panorama that unfolds is truly breathtaking. You'll gain even better perspectives of the colossal Mera Peak and its surrounding glaciers, which will appear much closer and more imposing. The view encompasses the vastness of the Hinku Valley, stretching out below you, and the dramatic, ice-clad peaks that encircle it.
Today is a pivotal day on your Mera Peak expedition, as you trek from Thaknak to Khare. This relatively short yet significant hike takes you to the final inhabited settlement before the higher camps, placing you directly at the doorstep of the climbing phase. The trail immediately begins a steady, uphill climb. The landscape transforms dramatically here, shedding the last vestiges of dense vegetation and transitioning into a rugged, high-alpine environment dominated by moraines, rocks, and the glistening expanse of glaciers. You'll traverse what feels like a moonscape, walking across the lateral moraines of the Dig Glacier. The path can be rocky and uneven, requiring careful foot placement. As you progress, you'll encounter the confluence of the mighty Hinku Nup and Shar Glaciers, vast rivers of ice flowing down from the surrounding peaks. The scale of the glacial landscape is truly awe-inspiring, a stark reminder of the powerful geological forces at play in the Himalayas.
Your experienced climbing Sherpa guide will conduct a comprehensive pre-climb briefing. This session is crucial for understanding the specifics of the Mera Peak ascent. Your guide will detail the summit day plan, including the expected timings, the route from High Camp to the summit, and the descent strategy. They will discuss potential challenges, weather considerations, and safety protocols, giving you a clear picture of what to expect. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask any last-minute questions and voice any concerns. Immediately following the briefing, you'll engage in essential pre-climb training. This hands-on session is typically conducted on the lower slopes of the Mera Glacier, easily accessible from Khare. Here, your guide will instruct and review the proper use of your mountaineering equipment. Finally, a meticulous climbing gear check will be conducted. Your guide will inspect everyone's personal climbing equipment for fitting and issues.
Setting out from Khare, you'll immediately begin your ascent onto the Mera Glacier. This is where your pre-climb training from the previous day becomes essential. You'll don your crampons, and your guide will likely fix a rope in some sections, or you'll move roped together, depending on the conditions, to ensure safety on the glacial ice. The initial part of the trek involves navigating a combination of rocky moraine and snow-covered ice, which can be challenging underfoot. The objective is to reach Mera High Camp, strategically perched on a rocky outcrop just below the main summit ridge. The High Camp is a fully tented camp. Here, your team will have set up sturdy tents, providing shelter from the biting cold and strong winds that are common at this elevation. The views from High Camp are utterly breathtaking, particularly at sunset, as the last light illuminates the colossal peaks around you, including a clear, commanding view of Mount Everest's majestic summit.
Your summit push begins remarkably early, typically between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM, under the blanket of a star-filled sky. After a quick, light breakfast and hot drinks to warm you, you'll don all your layers, headlamps illuminating the path, and begin your ascent from Mera High Camp. The climb starts immediately on the snow and ice of the glacier. Moving slowly and steadily, often roped together for safety, you'll utilize your crampons and ice axe, putting all your training into practice. The final section to the summit is generally steeper and can involve navigating a short, exposed ridge. Here, fixed ropes are typically in place, installed by your Sherpa team or other expeditions, which you'll ascend using your jumar (ascender) for security and assistance. This is where your strength and mental fortitude are truly tested, but the thought of the panoramic views awaiting you at the top will fuel your every step. Reaching the summit of Mera Peak (6,470 m) is an unparalleled triumph.
After a triumphant but brief stay on the summit, you'll begin the long descent back down. While downhill, it requires immense focus and energy, navigating the snow and ice. You'll retrace your steps to Mera High Camp, where a short rest and some refreshments will be welcome. From High Camp, you'll continue your descent, carefully navigating the glacial terrain, all the way back to Mera La. Now, instead of heading west towards Khare - you'll take a right and leave the Mera glacier heading eastwards towards a wide valley. The trail descends on the sandy moraine till you arrive at a glacial lake, then changes to an icy glade with sparse vegetation. After crossing the edge of a moraine, the Hongku valley opens up and Makalu reapperas in the horizon. The trail eventually leads you to the seasonal settlement of a few teahouses at Kongma Dingma, a pristine grazing pasture seldom used, if only by shephards.
The primary purpose of this day is to account for unforeseen circumstances that might have impacted your summit attempt. This could include: Adverse Weather Conditions: The Himalayas are known for their unpredictable weather. If strong winds, heavy snowfall, or whiteout conditions prevented a safe summit push on the designated summit day (Day 13), this contingency day allows for a second attempt, provided the weather clears. Slower Pace: Sometimes, due to individual acclimatization needs or the overall pace of the group, the ascent to High Camp or the summit itself might take longer than anticipated. This day provides the necessary buffer to maintain a safe and comfortable pace without rushing. Health or Logistics Issues: Minor health concerns, equipment adjustments, or other logistical delays can arise on any expedition. This extra day allows for flexibility without compromising the overall schedule or safety. If you summit the day before, you'll spend a rest day at Kongma Dingma.
Bidding farewell to Kongme Dingma under the mighty Kongme Peak, you head east along the right side of the valley. Amidst the scattered, collapsed rock blocks, you'll find a small trail beginning on your left. This trail climbs the flank of the moraine and enters a narrow gully, emerging 40 meters higher onto a moraine shoulder that overlooks Anda Pokhari (egg lake), a lake perfectly mirroring the majestic Chamlang. Behind you, the entirety of Mera Peak's summits are visible, with Naulekh displaying its beautiful stature to the left.
You'll climb directly up the center of the valley on the right side of the river across a mix of grassy plains and rocky terrain, shadowed by the East Face of Hunku Peak. Ahead, the Lhotse Massif becomes more imposing, eventually obscuring the region's monarch, Everest. As you approach a terminal moraine, you cross the river and pick up a well-marked trail on the left side, which ascends along the crest of a moraine. You continue straight, staying on the right of the valley, skirting the lakes on the left and heading toward the base of a moraine descending from the Kali Himal. After crossing a grassy plateau that terminates at a collection of moraine boulders , the grass disappears here, giving way entirely to rock. You weave between the boulders, till you reach the crest of the moraine to reach another viewpoint. Baruntse is now fully visible to the right, marking the end of the Kali Himal chain—the same chain you must cross further to the left at Amphu Laptsa.
Today is a significant milestone as you go across the Amphu Lapcha pass to Chukhung. You start by climbing the white, rocky moraine directly behind the camp, following its crest to the left. A steep section follows, ascending in tight switchbacks until you reach a small platform. From here, there's a fantastic view plunging down into the mountain cirque where the Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes) are nestled. The trail then meanders across rocky benches, passing near a small, frozen pond. You climb further, keeping to the right over eroded red rocks. The trail isolated feels other-worldly, but the well-placed cairns guide you as you arrive beneath the large seracs that guard the final approach to the pass. The key sections on the pass include: - Navigating the Ice Wall - The Amphu Laptsa Pass (5,775m) - The North Side Descent - Traversing the Glacier Basin
You've the day at rest. If you want, you can go for an optional hike to Chukhung Ri.
The journey from Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp is a crucial, high-altitude segment of the expedition. The trail initially heads south, crossing the Chhukung Khola, before gradually ascending along the moraine of the Imja Glacier, following the Imja Valley eastward. This trek, typically taking 3-4 hours, offers increasingly dramatic views as you gain elevation, passing the turn-off for Amphu Lapcha. Upon arrival at the sprawling base camp, nestled near the Imja Tsho, the focus immediately shifts to active acclimatization. The afternoon is spent entirely dedicated to final preparations. Your guide will lead refresher course on the use of equipments and a detailed summit briefing, outlining the ascent route, current weather forecasts, safety protocols, and the very early morning wake-up call. This comprehensive preparation is fundamental for a safe and successful attempt on Island Peak's summit.
Summit day on Island Peak begins in the pre-dawn darkness. The initial ascent from base camp is a steep, challenging climb up a rock gully. Upon reaching the top of the gully, climbers arrive at Crampon Point, where they don their technical gear: crampons are affixed to boots, and harnesses are connected to safety lines. From Crampon Point, the route transitions onto the Imja Glacier. This section involves traversing across the glacier and requires navigating small crevasses or snow bridges. The most demanding part of the climb is the final headwall, a steep snow and ice slope typically ranging from 40 to 50 degrees for approximately 250 to 300 meters. Here, fixed ropes are generally installed by the climbing guides, and climbers ascend using their ascender. After a brief, exposed walk along the ridge, the exhilarating summit is reached, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam. You'll then descend back to Chukhung for rest.
After the arduous Island Peak summit, today's journey will be quite easy as you descend only for a short while along the Imja Valley. The trail immediately heads south-west, following the curving course of the Imja Khola (river). This stretch is a welcome break, characterized by a gentle, steady descent of approximately 320 meters over 4.5 to 5 kilometers, making it a soothing walk after the rigors of high passes or Chhukung Ri. The terrain underfoot is a mix of dusty, rocky ground and open meadows dotted with low, scrubby juniper bushes—a landscape stripped bare by the altitude, resembling a rugged Martian surface under Nepal's crisp blue sky. As you walk, the immense Himalayan peaks dominate the panorama. Looking behind you (north-east), the glacier-laden mass of Lhotse (8,516 m) commands attention. The most stunning view is to the south as the serrated ridge of Ama Dablam (6,812 m) comes into full view.
From Dingboche onwards, the settlements and vegetation is sparse, the air thin and the land dry, almost like a dessert, but you will find yourself inching closer to your next challenge, Lobuche, with every breath. The morning doesn't offer much in terms of change in views. You will arrive at Thukla by taking the high trail above the Lobuche river, and spend some time waiting for lunch. After the ascent, you arrive at a wide field where an Everest memorial park has been established in memory of those who've perished while trying to summit Everest. Stone cairns adorn the field and add a touch of melancholy. You will now follow the Lobuche river all the way to Lobuche village, the last permanent settlement on the EBC trail.
Your adventure intensifies today as you ascend from Lobuche village towards Lobuche High Camp – a vital leap towards the summit. The trail winds along the valley floor before ascending a shoulder, passing an initial "Base Camp" near a lake. The path then narrows and steepens, featuring some sections with ropes for assistance. Reaching the main tented High Camp, nestled in a hollow with a small lake, marks a pivotal moment. Here, amidst the growing excitement, you'll conduct a thorough gear check, preparing for the early morning summit attempt. This segment is key physical and mental preparation for your thrilling climb.
The Lobuche East Peak summit push from High Camp is a brutal, all-night affair demanding technical skill and sheer resolve. You'll follow start around 2:00 or 3:00 AM and follow the trail north-eastward, moving over a challenging, unstable mix of rock and scree for the first 2 hours. This rocky segment, traversed in darkness, requires careful footing until the route crosses onto the glacier proper. Here, at the crampon point (typically around 5,700m), the technical phase begins. The route shifts east and then north-west, involving long stretches of steep snow and glacial ice where you'll ascend using fixed ropes secured by your guides. As dawn breaks, the route involves tackling the most challenging feature: the summit ridge - an exposed snow or ice knife-edge, requiring you to utilize their technical skills and the fixed lines for safety, navigating steep, icy pitches. After the summit, you'll descend to Pheriche - a small village on the classic EBC trail.
This day will act as a buffer day incase of bad weather or other unforseen circumstances that might halt your summit push.
The hike begins with a gentle descent over open, rocky plains to the villages of Pangboche and Deboche, followed by a 1.5-hour climb through a rhododendron forest to reach the spectacular viewpoint of Tengboche Monastery (3,860m), where Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam are clearly visible. After a steep, zig-zagging drop to the Dudh Koshi River at Phungi Thenga, the final 2-hour climb up "Namche Hill"—a sustained ascent over a stony path through the forest—until the trail finally traverses into the welcoming, amphitheater-shaped town of Namche Bazaar. At Namche, you can visit the local taverns, the Namche monastery or just call it a day and rest at your lodge for a quiet evening.
Tengboche is a village in Nepal's Khumbu region, famous for its picturesque setting and the largest Buddhist monastery in the area. You'll most probably have lunch at Tengboche where you can visit the Tengboche Monastery.
Tengboche Monastery, also known as Dawa Choling Gompa, is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. You can visit the monastery on the way to Namche when you stop for lunch at Tengboche village.
Pangboche is one of the oldest Sherpa villages in the Khumbu region of Nepal, located in the Sagarmatha National Park. Situated on the route to Everest Base Camp, it is known for its deep Sherpa culture, ancient monastery, and stunning Himalayan views. The village is a popular stopover on the trail to Ama Dablam Base Camp for Ama Dablam expeditions.
Alas, your trek comes to an end today as you hike through the scenic yet busting villages on the Everest Base Camp highway to Lukla. The trail is undulating but rewarding as the mountains keep you company. During peak season, the trail is packed with tourists; a welcome sight for the eyes and ears after weeks of solitude in the Himalayas.
The "Jorsalle suspension bridge" is an iconic suspension bridge near the village of Jorsalle that crosses the Dudh Koshi River. It is a key part of the trekking route from Lukla to Namche Bazaar and is famous as the location for one of the many suspension bridges crossed during the trek.
Monjo is a Sherpa village in Nepal located at an altitude of 2,835 meters, serving as a popular resting spot for trekkers on their way to Everest Base Camp. It is the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, including uphill streams, pine forests, and views of Himalayan peaks like Thamserku.
Phakding is a small Sherpa village in Nepal's Khumbu region, located north of Lukla and south of Monjo at an altitude of 2,610 m (8,563 ft). It is the first overnight stop for most trekkers on the Everest Base Camp route, providing a rest stop for acclimatization. The village is within the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty and unique culture. You'll most probably stop for lunch at Phakding.
Bidding farewell to the mountains, you'll hike to Lukla airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. You'll then drive back to Hotel Thame where you've the rest of the day at leisure. During peak season, flights to Kathmandu from Lukla can be divereted to Ramechhap. In case of such scenarios, you'll fly out to Namche and drive partway to Mulkot on the first day and drive to Kathmandu on the next day.
You've the day at your leisure to visit the various sights and sounds of Kathamandu.
You'll have the day by yourself. We recommend souvenir shopping, a relaxing massage and good food in Thamel. In the evening, we'll get together for a farewell dinner celebrating your trip in Nepal
Depending upon your exit plans, with the most probable being your return flight back home, your guide or a representative will accompany you to the Tribhuvan International Airport.
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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