Khongma La Pass is a prominent mountain pass located in the Khumbu region of Nepal. This pass is part of the famous Everest Three High Passes Trek, a challenging and adventurous journey that takes trekkers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas. Khongma La Pass is less trekked compared to the other two high passes, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a unique trekking experience in the Everest region.
Khongma La Pass and Khongma La Lake: Khongma La Pass, standing at an impressive altitude of 5,555 meters (18,220 feet) above sea level, is a pivotal highlight of the Everest Three High Passes trek. This pass connects the charming Chhukung village in the Imja Valley with the Lobuche village near the Khumbu Glacier. Here are some key features and attractions of Khongma La Pass:
- Stunning Mountain Views: From the summit of Khongma La Pass, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Everest region. While Mount Everest itself may be obscured by the imposing Mount Lhotse, the vistas of Mount Makalu, Mount Ama Dablam, and a multitude of other peaks in the Everest and Makalu ranges are simply stunning.
- Enchanting Lakes: Khongma La Pass offers a unique opportunity to witness two major lakes from its lofty vantage point. Additionally, the ever-moving glaciers have created several smaller lakes, enhancing the beauty and allure of the trekking route.
- Challenging Terrain: Trekking over Khongma La Pass can be quite adventurous, particularly in the winter season when the weather is harsh. In spring and autumn, the pass adds an extra challenge to the already demanding Everest Base Camp trek. The route is rocky and can be tricky, making independent trekking discouraged.
- Connecting Adventures: Khongma La Pass is a gateway to various adventure options. It connects seamlessly with other treks like the Everest Three High Passes trek, Everest Two High Passes trek, and Everest Base Camp trek with Island Peak climbing. Trekkers can also explore passes like Sherpini Col Pass and Amalapcha Pass or aim for peaks like Chhukung and Pokalde Peak.
- Scenic Attractions: Some of the major attractions along the Khongma La Pass trek include the mesmerizing mountains on the Makalu and Ama Dablam side, the serene lakes visible while ascending the summit, the thrilling crossing of the Khumbu Glacier, and the picturesque villages and valleys of Lobuche and Chhukung.
Nepal Tourism Hub recommends Khongma La Pass as undoubtedly a hidden gem for trekkers seeking a challenging and rewarding experience in the Everest region. Its stunning vistas, unique terrain, and connection to other adventure options make it an integral part of the Everest Three High Passes trek, offering an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Additional Info and Day to Day Itinerary to help plan your journey to this beautiful destination:
Day to Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
- Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
- Rest and prepare for the upcoming trek.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla and Trek to Phakding (2,610 meters)
- Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a thrilling experience in itself.
- Begin your trek to Phakding, following the Dudh Koshi River and passing through picturesque villages.
- Stay overnight in a teahouse in Phakding.
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters)
- Continue your trek, crossing suspension bridges and enjoying views of towering peaks.
- Reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu region, and acclimatize to the higher altitude.
- Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
- Spend the day exploring Namche Bazaar and acclimatizing to the altitude.
- Visit the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
- Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 meters)
- Trek through rhododendron forests and reach the Tengboche Monastery.
- Enjoy stunning views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
- Overnight stay in Tengboche.
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 meters)
- Descend to the Imja River and ascend to Dingboche.
- Enjoy views of Island Peak and other surrounding peaks.
- Overnight stay in Dingboche.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
- Take a day to acclimatize in Dingboche.
- Explore the village or hike to Nangkartshang Peak for panoramic views.
- Overnight stay in Dingboche.
Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Chhukung (4,730 meters)
- Continue your trek to Chhukung, a small village in the Imja Valley.
- Prepare for the upcoming Khongma La Pass crossing.
- Overnight stay in Chhukung.
Day 9: Trek from Chhukung to Khongma La Pass (5,555 meters) to Lobuche (4,910 meters)
- Start early and ascend to Khongma La Pass, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Descend to Lobuche village near the Khumbu Glacier.
- Overnight stay in Lobuche.
Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,160 meters) and Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters)
- Trek to Gorak Shep, your last stop before reaching Everest Base Camp.
- Continue to Everest Base Camp, where you can soak in the iconic views of the world’s highest peak.
- Return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) and Trek to Pheriche (4,371 meters)
- Hike to Kala Patthar for breathtaking sunrise views of Mount Everest.
- Descend to Pheriche, passing through Lobuche and Thukla.
- Overnight stay in Pheriche.
Day 12: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Begin your descent towards Namche Bazaar, retracing your steps.
- Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Day 13: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla
- Trek back to Lukla, celebrating the completion of your high passes trek.
- Overnight stay in Lukla.
Day 14: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu
- Take a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
- Rest and relax in Kathmandu, explore the city, and do some last-minute shopping.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
- Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for sightseeing or shopping in Kathmandu.
- Depart from Kathmandu, marking the end of your incredible Everest Three High Passes trek.
