The Everest region is one of the most iconic destinations for trekkers and mountaineers, known for its dramatic landscapes, rich Sherpa culture, and the world’s highest peaks.
Within this remarkable area lie some of the most challenging and breathtaking mountain passes, each offering unique perspectives of the Himalayas and testing trekkers’ endurance and spirit.
These high passes connect remote valleys and trails, creating unforgettable trekking experiences for those seeking an adventure beyond the ordinary.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the major mountain passes in the Everest region, diving into their altitude, connecting routes, best trekking times, trail conditions, and the stunning views that make each pass so special.
1. Kongma La Pass (5,535 m / 18,159 ft)
Kongma La Pass, standing at an impressive 5,535 meters (18,159 feet), is one of the three high passes that form part of the popular Three Passes Trek in the Everest region.
Connecting Chhukung in the Imja Valley to Lobuche, this pass is typically crossed by trekkers aiming for a more immersive and challenging experience in the Khumbu region.
Most trekkers cross Kongma La after acclimatizing at Chhukung or Dingboche, following the trail towards Lobuche and Everest Base Camp. Kongma La provides some of the most remarkable views of the surrounding peaks, including Makalu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, as well as stunning vistas of the Khumbu Glacier.
However, this pass is known for its difficulty; it requires a steep climb on a rugged trail filled with loose rocks and occasional snow, especially in early spring or late fall.
Trekkers should be prepared for the thin air, high winds, and cold temperatures that are common at this altitude, making Kongma La one of the more strenuous passes in the region but rewarding for those who seek breathtaking solitude and an adventurous challenge.
2. Cho La Pass (5,420 m / 17,782 ft)
Cho La Pass, at 5,420 meters (17,782 feet), is another high-altitude pass that connects the Gokyo Valley with the main Everest Base Camp trail at Dzongla.
This pass is often included in the Three Passes Trek or when combining the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake, making it a favorite for trekkers seeking diverse landscapes and a quieter route.
Trekkers usually cross Cho La from Gokyo after spending a few days exploring the turquoise glacial lakes and ascending Gokyo Ri for panoramic mountain views. The approach to Cho La is steep and physically demanding, with the trail becoming icy and slippery, especially during colder months.
At the top, trekkers are rewarded with unparalleled views of Ama Dablam, Lobuche East, and the Gokyo Valley, with sweeping vistas that make the strenuous climb worthwhile.
However, Cho La Pass requires careful navigation, as the trail is rocky, and the pass often has snow and ice, which can make the crossing particularly challenging.
Those attempting Cho La should be physically fit, have good trekking boots for icy conditions, and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
3. Renjo La Pass (5,360 m / 17,585 ft)
Renjo La Pass, sitting at 5,360 meters (17,585 feet), is the final high pass of the Three Passes Trek, linking the village of Gokyo with the Thame Valley.
This pass is a perfect route for trekkers looking to experience the Everest region’s remote landscapes and diverse views, and it is typically crossed after visiting Gokyo and the famous Gokyo Lakes.
Renjo La offers one of the most scenic views of the Everest region, with clear vistas of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, and a sweeping look back at the Gokyo Lakes.
The trail to Renjo La is relatively less crowded than the other two high passes, making it ideal for trekkers who prefer solitude.
However, the ascent is steep and demands good physical conditioning, as the trail can be rocky and sometimes covered in snow, especially during the early spring and late fall.
Due to high winds and lower temperatures at this altitude, Renjo La is challenging, but the views and serene atmosphere make it a highly rewarding part of the trek for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
4. Tashi Lapcha Pass (5,755 m / 18,876 ft)
At 5,755 meters (18,876 feet), Tashi Lapcha Pass is one of the highest and most difficult passes in the Everest region, linking the Rolwaling Valley with the Khumbu Valley.
This pass is usually crossed as part of the Rolwaling to Everest Base Camp trek, an isolated and rugged journey best suited for experienced trekkers or those with mountaineering skills.
The Tashi Lapcha Pass is known for its remote trails and requires crossing glaciers and steep ascents, making it one of the most technically demanding passes in the region.
Trekkers are rewarded with jaw-dropping views of high peaks like Pachermo and Tengi Ragi Tau, as well as a rarely seen side of Everest. The trail is extremely challenging, often covered in snow and ice, with unpredictable weather and high winds.
Due to its technical difficulty, crossing Tashi Lapcha typically requires trekking guides and sometimes ropes or crampons, particularly in icy conditions. This pass is ideal for trekkers looking for a true expedition-style adventure far from the more frequented paths of the Khumbu.
5. Amphu Labtsa Pass (5,845 m / 19,177 ft)
Amphu Labtsa Pass, reaching 5,845 meters (19,177 feet), is the highest and one of the most technical passes in the Everest region.
This pass connects the Imja Valley with the remote Hunku Valley in the Makalu Barun National Park and is typically crossed by trekkers combining the Mera Peak and Island Peak expeditions.
Amphu Labtsa requires climbing skills and is one of the most challenging routes due to its steep and exposed trails, often requiring ropes and mountaineering equipment.
Trekkers attempting Amphu Labtsa can expect incredible views of Everest, Baruntse, and Mera Peak, along with striking ice formations and hanging glaciers.
Given the high altitude and technical requirements, this pass is best suited for seasoned trekkers with high-altitude experience and a taste for mountaineering.
Conditions can be harsh, with snow, ice, and strong winds throughout much of the year, making the crossing unpredictable and particularly demanding.
The Amphu Labtsa is truly a route for serious adventurers seeking a remote, challenging experience with extraordinary rewards in terms of scenery and achievement.
6. Zatrwa La Pass (4,610 m / 15,125 ft)
Zatrwa La Pass, standing at 4,610 meters (15,125 feet), serves as the gateway to the Hinku Valley for those trekking the Mera Peak route. Starting from Lukla, this pass provides an alternative to the more popular EBC routes, leading trekkers toward the remote and less-traveled region of Mera Peak.
Zatrwa La offers incredible views of Kongde Ri and other peaks in the Rolwaling region, making it an ideal route for trekkers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path trails. Although it is less elevated than other passes, the trail to Zatrwa La is steep and demanding, especially when covered in snow.
High winds are also common, adding to the difficulty. Trekkers typically cross Zatrwa La on the way to Mera Peak, enjoying a rugged trail that introduces them to Nepal’s lesser-seen landscapes.
This pass is perfect for those seeking a remote adventure, combining high-altitude trekking with stunning, panoramic views of Nepal’s peaks.
Conclusion
The mountain passes of the Everest region add both beauty and challenge to trekking in these towering landscapes.
Each pass—whether Kongma La, Cho La, Renjo La, Tashi Lapcha, or Amphu Labtsa—offers trekkers a unique encounter with the Everest region, connecting valleys, revealing hidden vistas, and presenting a true test of skill and endurance.
These high passes are not just trails; they’re milestones that transform an Everest trek into a remarkable adventure, offering unmatched views, challenges, and personal triumphs for those who dare to cross them.
Choose your pass wisely, prepare thoroughly, and get ready to experience the Everest region from some of its most breathtaking vantage points.