The Everest Three High Pass Trek encompasses one of the most breathtaking excursions in the Himalayas: brilliant displays of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. It is a reasonable version of trekking starting fromSalleri. If your excuse for taking a break these days is due to monetary concern, then read on for this weekend getaway-activities and reasonable stays included-for some very effective money-saving tips.

How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway to Everest Three High Pass Trek From Salleri on a Budget?

Planning a weekend getaway to the Everest Three High PassTrek from Salleri requires careful planning, especially on a budget. While the full trek takes approximately 18–21 days, a short weekend visit can show only a selection of the highlights. Here's how to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank:

View of Everest from Kongma La Pass

1. Define Your Itinerary Realistic Weekend Plan

Since a full Three High Passes trek is not feasible in a weekend, you can focus on key sections:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Salleri by shared jeep (8–10 hours), then trek to Phaplu or Nunthala.

Day 2: Explore nearby viewpoints, interact with locals, and experience the Himalayan culture before returning.

In 3–4 days, one can reach up to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Everest, and come back either through the same route or by flight (Lukla to Kathmandu).

 

2. Avail Cheap Transportation to Reach

Kathmandu to Salleri: Public or shared jeep, costing around $15–$20, is cheaper than availing a private vehicle.

Return Journey: Take the same route back home or take a flight from Lukla, if the stay is extended at $180–$200 for foreigners, cheaper for Nepalese.

3. Budget Accommodation & Food

Teahouse or lodge stay: $5-15 per night.

Eat local food like Dal Bhat, for $5-7 per meal; avoid Western food, as it's really pricey.

Bring some snacks and a water bottle with a built-in water purification system to avoid buying bottled water.

4. Reduce Costs on Trekking Gear to the Bare Minimum

Rent necessary gear in Kathmandu; don't buy anything.

Bring enough but light clothes for the weather at altitude.

5. Consider hiring a Guide or Sharing the Cost with a Group

Hiring a local guide ($25–$30 per day) enhances safety and navigation.

Join a group trek to share accommodation and food expenses.

6. Travel Permits

You’ll need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit ($30) and Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit ($20). Get them in Kathmandu or Monjo checkpoint.

Final Tips for a Successful Budget Getaway

Start early each day to maximize trekking hours.

Avoid peak season costs (September–November, March–May); off-season travel can reduce accommodation expenses.

Avoid excessive spending on luxuries and alcoholic beverages.

Why Choose the Everest Three High Pass Trek?

The Everest Three High Pass Trek is the ultimate adventure for those seeking a challenging, scenic, and immersive Himalayan experience. It takes you across three major high-altitude passes—Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m)—offering breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

 

✅This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for:

✅A thrilling off-the-beaten-path adventure beyond Everest Base Camp.

✅ Diverse landscapes, from glaciers to remote valleys.

✅It showcases authentic Sherpa culture and less crowded trails compared to the classic Everest routes.

Budget-Friendly Travel Tips

Book in Advance: Early reservations on transport and stays can save big. Travel off-peak to avoid surcharges for flight and stay. Use public transports like buses or shared rides instead of private taxis. Stay in budget lodges and hostels, trying out the local guesthouse instead of a luxury hotel. Eat local and enjoy cheap, authentic food rather than restaurant food.

Pack smartly by renting or borrowing equipment instead of buying expensive gear. Travel light, not only for avoiding extra luggage surcharges, but also as a prevention from unplanned and even unnecessary shopping. Join group tours where costs are shared among guides, transportation, and permits.

 Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

✅Flight, hotel, and permit prices lower. 

✅Fewer people, making it a very peaceful experience.

✅ Tours, equipment rentals, and local transportation prices are better. 

✅More flexible booking and personalized service.

Pack Smart to Save Money

✅Carry multi-purpose clothes to save yourself from baggage fees.
✅ Bring refillable water bottles & snacks to yourself to avoid overpriced junk items.
✅ Rent or borrow the trekking gear instead of buying new.
✅ Pack essential medicines & toiletries to avoid high prices on last-minute buys.

Hire Local Guides and Porters

✅Get expert navigation & cultural insights from locals.
✅ Support the local economy & create jobs for communities.
✅ Stay safe in challenging terrains & high altitudes.
✅ Lighten your load and enjoy the journey stress-free!

Affordable Accommodations Along the Trek

✅Stay in teahouses & lodges: $5-15 per night.

✅Choose cheaper dorm rooms instead of private rooms.

✅ Negotiate prices during off-peak seasons.

✅Eat at your lodge to get accommodation at a discount or for free.

✅ Bring a sleeping bag for warmth in basic lodges.

Teahouses in Salleri

Basic amenities, warm, and cheap accommodations.

✅ Serve local food such as Dal Bhat and Tibetan bread.

✅ Budget travelers and trekkers to Everest.

✅ Prices start from $5 to $15 per night.

 Budget Lodges in Namche Bazaar

Options starting from $10 to $25 per night with basic comforts.

✅ Cozy teahouses offering hot meals & WiFi at an extra cost.

✅ Best deals when booking directly or traveling off-season.

✅ Popular choices: Panorama Lodge, Hotel Tibet, and Khumbu Lodge.

Camping Options for Adventurers

Camp in remote areas for a true wilderness experience.

✅ Bring proper gear for cold nights & high-altitude conditions.

✅ Some teahouses allow camping in exchange for meals.

✅ Best for off-the-beaten-path trekkers seeking adventure.

Must-Do Activities on a Budget

✅ Trekking & Hiking: Scenic trails to be explored at no extra cost.

✅ Monasteries: Visiting Sherpa culture and spirituality, an experience in itself, for free.

✅ Photography – Capture breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

✅ Local Markets – Browse Handicrafts & Souvenirs without too much hassle.

✅ Cultural Exchange: Chat with the locals & learn their way of life.

Explore Local Villages

✅Hike through traditional Sherpa villages to experience the culture firsthand.

✅ Learn about the local culture, daily life, and customs.

✅Enjoy home-cooked meals and warm hospitality from locals.

✅Free and enriching way to connect with the Himalayas

Visit Monasteries and Cultural Sites

✅Experience ancient Buddhist traditions and peaceful atmospheres.

✅ Visits to famous monasteries include Tengboche & Thame.

✅Prayer ceremonies, spinning prayer wheels, and sacred art.

✅Most sites are free or request small donations.

Enjoy Scenic Views Without Extra Costs

✅Breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over Everest and the Himalayas, respectively.

✅It is free to hike to viewpoints like Everest View Hotel & Gokyo Ri. Relax by rivers, glaciers, and serene mountain landscapes.

✅Nature is free; just enjoy the moment!

Sample Itinerary for a Weekend Getaway

Day 1: Arrival & Trekking Start

✅ Morning: Drive from Kathmandu to Salleri by jeep, 8-10 hours.

✅ Afternoon: Start your trek to Phaplu or Nunthala. It takes 3-4 hours.

✅ Evening: Take rest at the teahouse for an overnight stay and enjoy the local meal.

 

Day 2: Exploration & Return

✅ Morning: Trek to Namche Bazaar or nearby viewpoints, 4-5 hours.

✅ Afternoon: Explore villages, enjoy spectacular views, visit a monastery.

Evening: Drive to Salleri by jeep or flight (if extended).

 

Day 3: Departure

✅ Morning: Drive back to Kathmandu or further to your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much does the Everest Three High Pass Trek cost?

A: On a budget, the trek can cost around 1200−1,900, including permits, accommodations, and food.

 

Q: Is it safe to trek the Three High Passes?

A: Yes, with proper preparation, acclimatization, and a reliable guide, the trek is safe for most travelers.

 

Q: Can I do the trek in a weekend?

A: Complete trek takes almost 18 to 20 days, but smaller parts starting from Salleri can be used for a weekend short trip.

Conclusion

Everest Three High Pass Trek is the lifetime adventure that can be done in your budget with some perfect planning. From affordable accommodations to breathtaking activities, this guide has all one needs to plan a perfect weekend getaway. Start packing and get ready to explore the majestic Himalayas.