The Everest Three Passes Trek is a demanding 20 days trekking adventure in the Khumbu region of Nepal. This expedition is a complete loop of the Everest area, crossing the three 5000m above passes (Kongma La. Cho La, Renjo La) and connecting the three major valleys (Gokyo, Thame, and Imja). Crossing these rugged passes and climbing the peaks of Kala Patthar, Gokyo, and hiking to EBC provides an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
The Kongma La is the highest of the three, standing at 5,535m, 18159 ft, and is considered difficult to climb. It links the Chhukung valley to the Everest Base Camp Trail. Cho La (5,420m, 17,782 ft) is the most famous among them, connecting the EBC area to the sacred Gokyo Lakes. Renjo La Pass, standing at 5,360m, 17,585 ft, is known for its breathtaking views, overlooking the Gokyo Lakes with legendary peaks Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu rising in the background.
After spending two days in Kathmandu exploring historical sites such as Bodhnath Stupa and Pashupatinath, you embark on a high pass journey that starts with the adventurous Lukla flight. From Lukla, you trek along the Dudh Koshi Valley and climb to Namche Bazaar for the important acclimatisation. After that, you trek to historical places like Tangboche Monastery and also enjoy the panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Everest along the way. Your first high pass encounter is Kongma La before crossing the Khumbu Glacier to Lobuche. Later, you walk up to Gorak Shep and Kala Patthar. After that, you cross Cho La pass before descending to Gokyo Village. Next, climb to Gokyo Ri for the views of the sacred Lakes and later cross Renjo La Pass. Then you start the journey back home, a descent to Thame and Namche to Lukla. Fly back to Kathmandu and end the trip on a high note.
Perfect for trekkers seeking high altitude adventure and a raw Himalayan experience, this trek is defined by three demanding pass crossings that deliver the finest views and experiences the Everest region has to offer. This 20 days itinerary covers approximately 160 km, 100 miles, traverses Nepal's longest Glacier, Ngozumpa, and the 3 high passes trek difficulty is categorized as challenging as it requires high physical fitness, and also prior trekking experiences can be helpful but mental stamina and readiness. The Khumbu Three Passes Trek cost is budget conscious, permits required are the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, and the best season to trek is the pre monsoon spring season and the post monsoon autumn season.
- Crossing Three Legendary High Passes: Kongma La (5,535m, 18159 ft), Cho La (5,420m, 17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,360m, 17,585 ft).
- Closer view of the sacred and magical Gokyo Lakes.
- Visit historical places like Tenboche Monastery and Sherpa Culture Museum.
- Iconic trails to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
- Experience both the world's highest glacier, Khumbu Glacier and Nepal's longest glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier.
- Diverse Himalayan landscapes and rich flora and fauna.
- Perfect landscapes for high altitude adventure photography
- Different angle views of the world's highest peaks, Everest (8,848m, 29,029ft), Lhotse (8,516m, 27,940ft), Cho Oyu (8,188m, 26,864ft) and Makalu (8,481m, 27,83ft).
- Complete the Everest Loop linking Imja, Gokyo and Thame Valleys.
What Makes Nepal's Three High Passes Trek The Ultimate Everest Adventure?
The Three High Passes Trek in Nepal is the ultimate Everest adventure, offering a massive high altitude loop that connects the entire Khumbu region. This is perfect for trekkers seeking not only the typical Himalayan hike but also those who want to capture and experience the full spectrum of natural and cultural diversity found in the Everest region.
In contrast to other classic circuits Nepal offers, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek, famous for its climate zones and Thorong La Pass, this expedition also offers a raw mountain experience focused on very high terrain and breathtaking glaciers.
The 3 High Passes Trek is often compared to the classic Everest Base Camp trek as it shares the core route. But unlike EBC, where you ascend and descend the exact same trail, the three passes trek offers a different route; you rarely see the same view twice, giving you the best opportunity to witness the Everest region differently every day. It is a true circle that links the three major valleys of the region, the Imja Valley, the Gokyo Valley and the Thame Valley.
Similarly, as you are reaching a strategic high point, this Everest high passes expedition offers a unique, different angled and closer view of the world's tallest mountains: Everest (8,848m, 29,029ft), Lhotse (8,516m, 27,940ft), Cho Oyu (8,188m, 26,864ft) and Makalu (8,481m, 27,83ft).
At the heart of this journey are these greatest viewpoints in this region, each offering a completely different awe inspiring perspective of Nepal's mountains. One of them is Kala Pathar, which is known for its vantage point of the Everest view. From the top, you are standing directly across the legendary Khumbu Icefall, witnessing the Western Cwm, also known as the valley of silence. It is probably the most intimate view of the world's largest giant without actually being on the mountain itself.
Another classic viewpoint is Gokyo Ri standing above the sacred Gokyo Lakes. The place offers a vertical perspective of the sapphire blue lakes across the longest glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier, with the four 8,000m peaks lined up in a row, making it one of the rarest and most breathtaking views in the world.
One of the best parts of this journey is the constant scenery changes as you are passing three distinct valleys. You just don't look at the glaciers, you cross them, you also visit a series of six sacred lakes also known as Gokyo lakes, and of course the passes, each with a distinct personality: the highest and most rugged Kongma La, icy and technical Cho La and the tallest balcony feel of Renjo La.
This Everest Himalayan high pass adventure often ends by descending through the Thame Valley, most known as the home of many legendary Sherpa mountaineers like Tenzing Norgay and Apa Sherpa. Visiting the Thame monastery provides a more emotional and authentic glimpse into the Sherpa culture and mountain life, giving a perfect end to the perfect journey.
How Much Is The Cost Of The Everest High Passes Trek?
Everest Three High Passes Cost in 2026 is estimated between $2300 to $4000 USD, depending on your package style. Nepal Nomad offers budget-friendly, standard and luxurious packages. The price range for the budget-friendly package is $1800 to $1900, but the low price also means fewer services from your operator. Nepal Nomad will arrange the permits required; however, the meals are limited, drinks are not included, economical flight options are available, and accommodation involves shared rooms, including in Kathmandu.
The standard package offers a budget ranging from $2300 to $2600. In this package, the costs included are domestic flights, tea-house accommodations, meals on trek, guide and porter service and basic safety logistics such as a first-aid kit and emergency support. What's not included are international airfare, travel insurance, personal expenses and purchase or rental of clothes and gear (if required).
Similarly, a luxurious package price is estimated from $3500 to $4500. The upgrades you will get are higher-end lodges, dedicated personal staff, private toilets and showers in Kathmandu and in teahouses if available, and a possible helicopter transfer if Lukla flight gets canceled.
To build your own budget in 2026, add all these factors: Lukla Flight (price can fluctuate by season), Food and Bed, Guide and Porter wages, Mandatory Permits, and Insurance.
Is the Three High Passes Trek Nepal Too Difficult for Seniors? How To Prepare?
The question of whether the Everest Three High Passes Trek is suitable for seniors is very common. The easy answer is yes, it is suitable for seniors who are in their 60s and 70s, but they require a completely different strategy than for a 25 year old. There are many examples of people in their late 60s and early 70s completing the circuit; however, because this expedition involves crossing three 5,000m passes and spending many days in the high altitude with high risk for altitude sickness, seniors need a specialized Everest Three High Passes Itinerary where they must prioritize pacing over speed.
What is the reality of the physical challenge in the three passes Everest journey? For people above 60, the difficulty is not just the ice slopes and steepness, but also the cumulative fatigue (a gradual buildup of physical or mental exhaustion) and joint impact. A standard trekking day is five to six hours, and the Pass Days are ten to 12 hours of continuous marathons, so for older trekkers, muscle recovery takes a longer time, and the exhaustion can lead to severe health issues. The descent is equally jarring as loose scree and icy glacial can be taxing on the joints. The oxygen gap can also be high as compared to a young person, so they must be hyper aware of Acute Mountain Sickness.
Interestingly, being a mature adventurer often has a higher success rate on long treks than younger people, and the main reason is mental stamina. Older hikers often have high patience levels and a mental resilience required for a trek like the Everest Three High Passes. Also, they follow the golden rule of slow and steady wins the race.
So, if you are fifty plus and looking for adventure trekking in Nepal, especially the three high passes; then follow these rules. Always extend the itinerary; most agencies, including Nepal Nomad, offer a 20 day itinerary, but for seniors, 22 to 23 days is the golden standard, where you add extra acclimatization days in Dingboche before Kongma La and in Gokyo to rest after Cho La Pass.
Follow the light pack strategy, where you should not carry a 15kb backpack, and hire a porter, not as a luxury but a necessity. Buy trekking poles and knee braces, as these gears will reduce the impact on your knees by a huge percentage. Also, before booking the trip, do a thorough body checkup and consult with your doctor.
You are also recommended to do proper training, which should start six months in advance. Some of them are swimming, cycling, focusing on the quadriceps, glutes, and core, going for a long hike once or twice a week, and also preparing your muscles for the steep descents; walking down the stairs is a good exercise.
With an experienced guide, a longer itinerary, proper gear, planned dietary meals, regular exercise, and proper doctor consultation, the Three High Passes Trek for seniors is absolutely possible.
Which One To Choose? Everest Base Camp Vs. Everest Three High Passes Trek
Choosing between two classic trails, EBC and High Passes, is always a dilemma for trekkers wanting to travel to the Khumbu region. While they share the same starting points, some trails, there are fundamental differences, and you can always choose between the two by considering all the factors.
First and foremost is the route. The Everest Base Camp is the classic up and back trek. You follow the single main route from Lukla to Base Camp and return from the same path, so there are no different views and landscapes to explore while descending. On the other hand, the High Passes trek is a loop that connects the three main valleys (Imja, Gokyo, and Thame) and every day offers a new trail, a new view, a new landscape, and a new horizon. The Everest Three High Passes Itinerary also includes the EBC routes and Gokyo Lakes.
The second difference is the scenery and viewpoints. EBC mainly focuses on the Khumbu Valley, offers breathtaking views of Everest and Ama Dablam, fulfills the goal of touching the base of Everest, and provides the views from Kala Patthar. The 3 High Passes expedition offers the front row view of the world's 8,000ers (Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu), and you also visit the sacred Gokyo Lakes, which are considered the most beautiful in the world.
The difficulty level and physical demand are also varied between the two. EBC is accessible to people with good hiking level fitness, as the main challenge is the altitude only, but for the passes, you will have to navigate a glacier, steep scree and boulder fields, the days you will cross high passes will be grueling and can last up to 12 hours, and, altitude is also a big issue as you send many time above 5,000m.
The base camp of the world's tallest mountain can be a bit crowded, especially during the peak season in October and November, March and May (in this season, you will see Bazar at EBC as it is the expedition season) but as you head towards the passes, the crowds will be significantly lower and you might often feel alone in the mountains. The cost and itinerary are also different. Everest Base Camp takes between 11 Days and 15 days, costing $1300- $1700 on average, and The three High Passes takes between 20 and 22 days, costing $2300- $2500 on average.
So, which one to choose? You can choose completely based on your preference. If you are looking for a cost friendly, limited day, first time trekking to stand at the base of Everest, choose EBC. If you are an experienced trekker with some time, want to see the sacred Gokyo Lakes, and experience the quiet yet breathtaking side of the Everest region, then choose the 3 High Passes Trek Everest.
The Magic Of Three: Passes, Highlights, And Valleys On The Everest Three High Passes Trek
Khumbu Three Passes Trek is not just a simple trek; it is a celebration of three, a trilogy of gruelling challenges, magical wonders, and picturesque landscapes. By combining three passes, three wonders, and three valleys, the trek becomes an unforgettable Himalayan Odyssey giving you the views of every side of the roof of the world, aka, Mount Everest.
The Three Passes: Kongma La (5,535m, 18159 ft), Cho La (5,420m, 17,782 ft), and Renjo La (5,360m, 17,585 ft)
Kongmala, Chola, and Renjo La Trek is the physical and mental core of this expedition. Each journey represents a victory over altitude, ice, and the raw forces of nature.
Kongma La Pass is the highest and usually the first pass encountered if you are on a counter clockwise itinerary. In Nepal Nomad's itinerary, you trek from Chhukung to Kongma La Pass on the ninth day of your journey. The trail is a difficult ascent involving steep, rocky terrain and takes about seven to nine hours. Near the summit, the path becomes narrow and exposed. The descent is even more demanding as you have to navigate the icy and uneven terrain of Khumbu Glacier to reach Lobuche. The mental pressure, along with physical discomfort, makes this journey the most difficult among the three. The reward, however, will make you forget everything. You will directly witness the massive Nuptse Lhotse wall, a unique view of Makalu (8,485m), Pokalde (5,806m) and Mera (6,476).
Cho La Pass is the technical and most famous one among the three. It serves as the icy bridge between the EBC trail and the Gokyo Valley. The journey will be on your twelfth day from Dzongla. A relatively flat and gentle walk at first, it slowly transitioned into a steep, strenuous scramble up a rocky moraine towards the end. You have to walk on a glacier, which can be very difficult if there is fresh snow covering the loose rocks. At the same time, walking on a glacier is also a reward as it is a very rare experience for trekkers without any technical climbing gear. On top of that, the breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and Cholatse are a crowning moment.
Renjo La Pass is known for its scenic masterpiece. An easy journey combined with what many consider the most beautiful view in the world makes this pass a trekker's favorite. The journey starts on the fifteenth day from Gokyo, beginning with a steep climb. While the trail is less technical than the previous two passes, the final push to the top is a steep, often called stairway to heaven that feels almost impossible to climb in the thin air. Once you pass the difficult part, the view will make you feel like you are on a different planet. You will witness the legendary 8000m's Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu all at once, also perfectly reflected in the turquoise Gokyo Lakes below. There is a reason why Renjo La Pass is called the Balcony view of the world, and you will find out why once you reach this pass.
The Three Legendary Highlights: EBC, Kala Patthar, Gokyo Lakes
Journey across the Everest High Passes is also defined by its three iconic destinations. Together, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar and the Gokyo Lakes form the sacred trilogy of the route, places where pinnacle, panorama and paradise come together in perfect balance.
Everest Base Camp is an iconic staging ground for South side expeditions to mighty Everest. It offers the spectacular vistas of Lhotse, Nuptse and Khumbu Icefall. Unlike any other traditional summit, Base Camp feels like going to a high altitude city built on the moving Khumbu Glacier. In the peak EBC climb season, which is in Spring, the whole place will change into a vibrant sea of yellow tents housing legendary climbers around the world, Kami Rita Sherpa and Pasang Dawa Sherpa, to name a few.
Kala Patthar, aka black stone, is known for offering one of the best Everest views. Located on the southwest flank of Pumari, it serves as the ultimate vantage point for the King of the Himalayas, and also provides 360 degree views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Changtse. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for the magical sunrise or sunset.
Gokyo Lakes, situated high in the Everest region, nestled beneath towering giants and glaciers, serve as the highest freshwater lake system in the world. This sacred landscape with sapphire and turquoise waters fed by Ngozumpa Glacier is revered by the locals and is protected as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The lakes consist of five natural wonder and each holds a deep spiritual significance.
- Longponga Tsho: The first of the Gokyo Lakes is the introduction to this sanctuary. Smaller and quieter in comparison, this lake marks the threshold between alpine terrain and the holy lake system ahead.
- Taujung Tsho: Nestled just beyond Longpona tsho, this lake is known for its intense and stunning blue waters.
- Dudh Pokhari: The most famous of them all, Dudh Pokhari serves as a spiritual, cultural and visual centrepiece of the Khumbu region. Revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, pilgrims visit this lake during the Janai Purnima festival in August, where Hindus believe that a dip in the water washes away sins.
- Thonak Tsho: Thonak Tsho is larger and more remote bordering the vast Ngozumpa Glacier; it is shaped entirely by ice and time.
- Ngozumpa Tsho: Ngozumpa Tsho is the highest and most remote of them all, situated closer to the glacier. Often frozen, this lake surrounds you with a profound sense of the natural forces that carved the Everest region.
The Gokyo lakes are more than scenic; this landscape plays a crucial role in maintaining a fragile but very important Mountain ecosystem. Spiritually, people believe them to be abodes of protective deities, symbolizing belief, worship, purity, and life at extreme altitude. For trekkers on the 3 High Passes Trek Everest, the lakes give a rare moment of stillness and comfort.
The Three Valleys: Imja Valley, Gokyo Valley, Thame Valley
To complete the magic of three in the Khumbu Three Passes Trek, you must also learn about the three magical valleys connecting the Everest region. By trekking in these three unique landscapes, you get an opportunity to experience the full spectrum of the Khumbu. From the famous Imja, to passing through scenic Gokyo and finally ending at the quiet and cultural Thame, this expedition completes a full circle around the Everest massif.
The Imja Valley is formed by the Imja Khola (river) from the melting Imja Glacier. It covers the eastern section of the Everest region and is considered the most famous valley on the trek. It is the trail to many popular and iconic viewpoints such as Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Tengboche Monastery Viewpoint, Nangkartshang Peak, and Pheriche Viewpoint.
The valley is also known for the Lhotse Nuptse Massif, which is a huge wall of rock and ice that almost blocks the northern horizon. It is the home to villages such as Chhukung, Dingboche, Pangbuche, and Lobuche and will give you the firsthand experience of the traditional Sherpa culture. The region is surrounded by legendary peaks, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. It is also a high alpine in its purest form, as there are no green trees in sight, only hardy shrubs and golden grasses.
After Imja, you move towards the west and enter the magnificent Gokyo Valley, probably the most beautiful valley in Nepal’s mountain region. If Imja Valley is described as a rock, then Gokyo Valley is ice and water, as it is defined by the longest glacier, Ngozumpa Glacier, and the six sacred lakes. The contrast between the grey glacier and the crystal blue lakes makes this valley the most unique, breathtaking, and beautiful creation of nature. This region helps you relax and immerse yourself in the silence of the mountains.
The Thame Valley, located in the westernmost part of the Everest region, is called its sacred backyard. The valley is home to the world's most legendary mountaineers, including Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, the first of two men to climb the mighty Everest. The region was also the primary gateway for Tibet and Nepal traders who would lead yak caravans over the Nangpa La Pass to trade salt, wood and other goods.
The valley offers distinct scenery compared to the other two valleys. After you descend from Renjo La Pass, you slowly leave behind the sandy and rocky upper villages like Lungden and enter the landscapes with colour, you enter the lush forest of pine, fir, and rhododendron, depending on the season you choose.
Journey through all three valleys reveals the three distinct worlds of the Everest region, from the many of the world's tallest giants of Imja, to the sacred turquoise lakes of Gokyo, and finally the timeless Sherpaland of Thame, holding millions of stories of legends.
A Chance To Explore Sherpa Festivals, Monasteries, And Traditions On The Three High Passes Trek
The Everest Three High Passes Trek is not just about physical challenge but also a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural side of Khumbu, well protected by its people, mainly known as Sherpas. Sherpas are an indigenous ethnic group famous for their mountaineering skills. Their high altitude resilience, never giving up attitude and love for mountains came to light to the world after Tenzing Norgay's historic Everest summit with Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953. Since then, Sherpas have been celebrated and loved for their mountaineering expertise, with figures like Kami Rita Sherpa, Apa Sherpa, and Ang Rita Sherpa becoming legends in the Himalayan climbing history.
Originally, the Sherpas migrated from eastern Tibet around the 15th century, bringing with them Tibetan Buddhist traditions, language, and cultural practices. They started as farmers cultivating potatoes and barley, while also herding yaks. Later, their deep knowledge of the mountains made them important guides and porters for the Himalayan expeditions, and the rest is history.
Beyond mountaineering, the Sherpa people are also known for their rich cultural and spiritual life. Their festivals, traditions, monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags are their pride. Here is a look at the cultural tapestry you will encounter along the route.
Celebrate Sherpa Festivals. Dance with The Himalayas
Mani Rimdu is one of the important Buddhist festivals celebrated by the Sherpas to represent the victory of Buddhism over the ancient Bon religion. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over bad, purification and blessings, the teaching of Buddha's wisdom, and the importance of community and spiritual unity.
It is a nineteen day event celebrated in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar, primarily at Tengboche Monastery. Monks perform masked dances (Cham) to purify negative energies and promote peace and harmony. The important three phases of celebration are the opening day, where the detailed sand mandala is created and the locals get Wong which are a sacred pills; the second phase is where monks wear elaborate costumes and masks representing deities and spiritual figures; the final day is all about the fire ceremony held in the courtyard to honor god of fire marking the destruction of evil.
Dumji or Dumje is an important annual festival celebrated to honor the birth of Guru Ringpoche (Padmasambhava, meaning Lotus Born). The festival was first introduced by Lama Sangwa Dorje about 400 years ago to honor Guru Rinoche who is credited with bringing Vajrayana Buddhism to Tibet in the eighth century. It is celebrated in villages like Khumjung, Thame, and Namche Bazaar, typically in June or July. It is hosted by eight local families (Chiwa) who provide food and beverages to the entire village. The festival symbolizes spiritual protection, blessing for peace, and Buddhist faith.
Gyalpo, meaning King, Lhosar, meaning New Year, is a fifteen day (main celebrations last three days) Tibetan New Year celebrated in February or March by Sherpa, Tamang, and Tibetan communities, marking the start of the Tibetan Lunar New Year. Families clean the entire house for the preparation and make a special noodle soup called Guthuk made with nine ingredients, often with dough balls with hidden items that reveal the fortune for the coming year. Other traditional foods they make are Khapse (fried snacks) and Dresi (sweet rice). The festival symbolises renewal of life, positivity, and community unity.
Saga, referring to the name of the star, and Dawa, referring to the fourth month of the lunar calendar, the festival Saga Dawa is celebrated to honour three pivotal life events of Lord Buddha. His birth in Lumbini, Nepal, his enlightenment in Bodhi Gaya under the Bodhi tree, and his passing. Because all three events fall in the same month (May or June), this time is considered the holiest month in Buddhist tradition.
During this time, people light butter lamps and hang prayer flags, visit monasteries for special pujas, give to charity, and perform pilgrimages or kora (circumambulations). The festival symbolizes the celebration of Lord Buddha's teachings, compassion, love for all living beings and reflection.
Visit Sherpa Monasteries: Sacred Centers of the Khumbu
Monasteries, also known as Gompas, that you pass on your Everest Three Passes Trek, are the sacred centers and spiritual anchors of the Khumbu region. Visiting these places will give you a deeper insight into the cultural and traditional heritage of the Himalayan people. Every ritual, every puja (worship ceremony), every festival celebrated in Gompas reflects the history, beliefs, and faith that guide Sherpa life.
Tengboche Monastery, also called Dawa Choling Gompa, is the largest monastery, often referred to as the spiritual gateway to Everest. Founded by Lama Gulu in 1961, it is located on the ridge of the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers, surrounded by rhododendron forest and offers the magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Inside, there is a large, almost 20 foot statue of Buddha and walls intricately decorated with Thangkas (religious paintings) and murals of Buddha depicting his whole life.
The monastery has a history of incredible resilience. It was destroyed in the 1934 earthquake and later by a huge fire in 1989. It was rebuilt with the help of the local community and international aid, including the Himalayan trust, both times. The place signifies a Nyingmapa lineage monastery, and many huge festivals, including the Mani Rimdu festival is held here. It is also famous for receiving a puja (blessing) before a summit in the Everest region to seek a blessing for a successful trip.
Pangboche Monastery is considered the oldest monastery, founded in the 17th century by Lama Sanga Dorje, who is revered for bringing Buddhism to the region. Historically, the place was famous among the visitors for keeping a "Yeti (an ape like huge creature) Scalp and hand". Although the scalp was debunked as a fake by experts and the hand was reportedly stolen in the early 90’s, they now have replicas, and the stories still draw visitors. Because of the spiritual value, many climbers and trekkers visit the place to receive a final blessing before heading to the Everest Base Camp.
Thame Monastery is located in the Thame valley, perched on a Cliffside, and built half a century ago. It is much quieter and more intimate compared to the above two monasteries, and as a result has some of the best preserved frescoes and tapestries. It is also where the Mani Rimdu festival is celebrated in May/June as opposed to the one held at Tengboche in autumn, following their own monastic calendars and traditions.
The place is also the spiritual home of the world's legendary mountaineers, who were born in Thame. Tenzing Norgay Sherpa (one of the first two people to summit Everest in 1953), Ang Rita Sherpa (climbed Everest without supplemental oxygen ten times), and Kami Rita Sherpa (world record holder for the most Everest summits) are some of them.
Khumjung Monastery, located in the Khumjung village just above the Hillary School, is the second oldest monastery in the Everest region, most popular for housing a Yeti Scalp in a glass box. As of 2026, this is the only place on Earth where you can see a 'verified' Yeti Scalp, although scientists believe the scalp is of a Himalayan Serow rather than a Yeti. It is kept in a padlocked glass case, and one can see it after a small donation. The place is a celebration hub for the locals, where many big and small festivals are celebrated, including Dumji. The monastery is also considered a guardian of Mt. Khumbila, as it is forbidden to climb the sacred mountain.
Closer Look At Sherpa Traditions And Sherpa Life
Sherpa people are often known to the world as the mountain guides, the ones who will help you summit some of the tallest giants, but they are much more than that. On this Three High Passes Trek Nepal, you will get a closer look into their daily life, their culture, their traditions, and how they are not just the guide but the protector and devotee of the mountains.
The Khumbu people considered mountains as gods; they call Mount Everest, Chomolungma, meaning the goddess mother of the world. Before any expedition, climbing or trekking, they perform a Puja where Juniper incense is burned, and prayers are offered. It is their sacred way of asking permission to climb the mountain and take a blessing for the successful journey. You will see these altars at every base camp.
Similarly, you will also get a closer look at the yak economy and the agricultural life of mountain people. Before tourism, the Sherpa economy was entirely dependent on farming and trade. You will see two types of animals, Zopkyos, a crossbreed at lower regions and Yaks at higher villages. Yaks provide milk, butter, cheese, wool and dried dung, used as a source of fuel. Potato farming, which was first introduced to them in the 19th century, changed their economic life forever. In many villages, you will see large fields with potatoes and buckwheat farming. Many families also practice seasonal migration, when they move their livestock to high passes in summer and return to lower villages in the winter.
What about the Sherpa home? The traditional houses are designed for warmth and community. The kitchen is the center of the home, where families sit together around a central wood to eat and share stories. You will see the same pattern in teahouses as well, where the dining hall is the main eating, sitting and 'laughing' area. Almost every home also has a prayer room filled with butter lamps, sacred texts and statues of Buddhas. You will also notice their heartwarming hospitality, where they will answer your every question and curiosity with a beautiful smile, they will offer you food, water or tea first, always putting your needs before their own.
The Sherpa society has a strong tradition of working together. If a family is in need, let’s say they are building a house, and then an entire village helps them. You will also notice the female empowerment in the mountains. They are very independent and run many teahouses and manage family finances, breaking the taboos surrounding the South Asian family. The men are mostly on expedition, and all the financial and emotional responsibility of raising a family is on the women.