Kongma La pass

Kongma La pass is the most amazing pass (connection) between Lobuche and Chhukung valley. Its altitude is 5535 meters above sea level that is higher than Everest base camp (5364 m). It is the highest pass among Everest three passes: Renjo la pass, Cho La pass and Kongma La pass. The pass lies in the east of Imja valley and Island peak, and west of Lobuche in Sagarmatha national park, Solukhumbu district, Koshi province, Nepal. 

Kongma La pass is the hidden gems of Everest region that require a courageous spirit to trek. Passing the fragile landscape, moraines, glacier and steep rocky slopes are challenges of this pass. Trekkers can enjoy the mesmerizing view of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Island peak, Khumbu glacier and Niyang Khola valley from Kongma La. 

Facts of Kongma La Pass Trek

• Mountain views: Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, Island peak
• Less crowdy trekking trail
• Challenging trekking route in Everest region
• Explore lakes, glaciers and alpine Khumbu landscape
• Total trekking days: 13 Days
• Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu rural municipality permit and Sagarmatha national park permit
• Best time: spring and autumn

Where is Kongma La pass located?

Kongma La pass is located at 5535 m above sea level in Sagarmatha national park. It is in the east of Chhukung and west of Lobuche. It is an amazing destination of Solukhumbu district, Kaski province, Nepal. Geographical location of Kongma La pass is 27.938 °N and 86.907 °E which connects Imja valley with Khumbu glacier. 

How to reach Kongma La pass?

The best way to reach Kongma La pass is trekking from Lukla. It takes 11 days to complete the trek to Kongma La pass from Lukla to Lukla.

The brief itinerary to reach Kongma la pass

• Day 1: Arrival in Nepal
• Day 2: Flight to Lukla and trek to Phakding
• Day 3: Trek to Namche
• Day 4: Rest day in Namche
• Day 5: Trek to Tengboche
• Day 6: Trek to Dingboche
• Day 7: Trek to Chhukung
• Day 8: Trek to Kongma La pass to Lobuche
• Day 9: Trek to Namche
• Day 10: Trek to Lukla
• Day 11: Flight to Kathmandu
• Day 12: final departure

Kongma La pass difficulty

Kongma La pass difficulty is neither than the steep terrains with ascending and descending trail.  The high elevation increases the chance of altitude sickness during the trek. Good preparation for trek is important to minimize the difficulty. 

The major difficulties are:

• Ascending steep trail
• Altitude sickness
• Challenging trek

Best time for Kongma La pass trek

The best time for Kongma La pass trek is the months of March, April, May, September, October and November. We can have best view of mountains due to pleasant weather and clear skies. The moderate temperature during spring and autumn favors trekking in Everest region. 

Conclusion

Kongma La pass is the highest pass among Everest's three passes: Cho La pass, Renjo La pass and Kongma La pass. It is challenging trek that requires good preparation to complete the trek. The trekking begins from Lukla and complete in 12 days along with your arrival and departure.