Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek

Duration: 12 Days   |  
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Aeroplane
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
  • Max Elevation: 5365m

Every trail in the Everest region is challenging plus tricky, and so is the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek. This beautiful journey combines visiting Gokyo valley and crossing one of the three passes. Gokyo and Renjo La Pass trek is a substitute for the mainstream trails of Everest Base Camp. You escape the crowded routes and walk on a more peaceful path on this journey.

The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trekking trials lie inside the Sagarmatha National Park of the Khumbu region. It resides in the eastern Himalayas of Nepal and near the Ngozumpa glacier. Gokyo and Renjo La Pass trek have enchanting features that make it an exclusive trip to the mountains. You can climb Gokyo Ri, visit the fourth and fifth lakes, and cross Renjo La Pass.

Gokyo Ri is a beautiful peak or viewpoint that lies above Gokyo village. It is famous for its sunrise view and marvelous sight of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and more. Similarly, the Gokyo Fourth lake is called Thonak Tsho, and Fifth Lake is known as Ngozuma Tsho. During your acclimatization day, you visit these two beautiful lakes.

The trails also take you over Renjo La Pass, one of the high passes of the Khumbu region. The pass lies above 5000 m, so you enjoy the stunning view of Mount Everet, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, etc. The Gokyo Renjo Trek begins with a flight to Lukla, and after breakfast, you walk to Phakding. From there, you move towards Namche and rest there before climbing elevation.

The next day, you move onward to Dole, then to Machhermo, and later, climb to Gokyo. Arriving at Gokyo, you have your lunch, hike to Fifth Lake, and, the next morning, summit Gokyo Ri for a sunrise view. After a marvelous time in Gokyo, you climb Renjo La Pass and descend to Lungden. The next day you head down to Thame and visit Thame monastery for prayer.

You then head down to Namche and then to Lukla the following day. You catch the morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla and end the trip.

Best time for Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek

Spring and autumn have always been considered the best time for Gokyo Renjo La Trek. Every year the Gokyo trails are packed during these seasons.

The months from March to April and September to November fall in spring and autumn. The stable weather and temperature are the major highlights of these months.

The visibility is clear, the hills have more greenery, the paths are colorful, and the mountains stand tall under the clear sky. Also, there are fewer chances of rainfall and snowfall, making the day walks comfortable.

The average temperature ranges between 11 to 18 degrees in spring, while it is about 7 to 14 degrees during autumn. The day is warm but the nights are chilly in higher regions.

gokyo renjo la pass trek

Is Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek Difficulty?

Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek have moderate to hard level difficulty. It means the trek is suitable for both professional and novice trekkers as long as they have sound stamina and mind.

Walking each day up and down the rugged topography puts a toll on people's bodies and minds. If you are not prepared for the trek, you might lose the determination to complete it.

You need to walk at least 15 to 20 km daily for 5 to 6 hours to finish the trek peacefully. If you wish, add more days to make it easier and more relaxing. However, we do not recommend shortening the days as it might cause health-related problems, mainly for newcomers.

If Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek is your first trip to the mountains, be sure to have excellent build and strength. Do not visit the trails if you are doubtful or unprepared because doing so will only slow down the group.

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek Permits

Every trekking trail of Nepal requires one or more permits to enter a specific area, so the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is no different. The Gokyo Renjo La routes reside in the Everest region, so you need to carry two permits:

Sagarmatha National Park entry permit: This permit is necessary to enter the national park and conservation area. You can buy this from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Monjo. This permit costs about NPR 3000, USD 30 for foreigners, and NPR 1500, USD 15 for SAARC people.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permits: This permit replaced TIMS Card and is required to enter the different villages of the Khumbu region. You can buy this permit only from Lukla. It costs about NPR 2000, USD 20 for everyone.

P.S. All the fees are to be paid in Nepalese currency.

Highlights

  • Adventure on the other side of Everest and scenic Khumbu at Gokyo valley
  • Gokyo Valley, a picturesque country enclosed within range of high mountains
  • Enjoy scenic moments around crystal clear and emerald lakes of Gokyo valley
  • Hike to view-point at Renjo-la with stunning panorama of world highest peaks
  • Grand panorama of Everest, Cho-Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu mountain range
  • Cultural and adventurous walks around high and hidden area of Khumbu valley

Day to Day Itinerary

  • Day 1 Fly to Lukla (2820m) and Trek to Phakding (2,657 m) - 04 hrs

    Lukla altitude: 2860 m above sea level

    Flight duration: 30 to 40 minutes

    Phakding altitude: 2610 m above sea level

    Walking duration: 3 to 4 hours

    Overnight at Phakding

    Wake up fast and get ready for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek. Your guide will come to pick you up early in the morning to catch the flight to Lukla from Tribhuvan International airport.

    Arriving at the airport, you complete the necessary formality and board the plane to Lukla. After taking off, you get a splendid 360-degree view of rivers, hills, valleys, and mountains. Enjoying the marvelous scenarios, you reach Lukla airport, well-known for its narrow and small runway.

    You fill your tummy and head north walking out of the town through the stone stairs. Today, you lose altitude when trekking from Lukla to Phakding as the trails follow downhills along the Dudh Koshi river.

    You continue walking down the main street and come across the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality office. From there, you hike for an hour or so, to reach Chheplung and cross over Thado Koshi using a suspension bridge.

    You can witness Kusam Kanggru, one of the most challenging mountains to conquer, past the bridge. As you keep moving ahead, the trails lead you to Ghat, where you walk over a ridge marked with Mani stones.

    The trail between Lukla to Phakding is a mix of stone pathways, rocky sections, and dirt which is easy to maneuver. It is mostly downhill with some short uphill segments.

    You come across several suspension bridges as you approach Phakding. This beautiful village lies at a lower elevation, with more greenery and a great view of the Dudh Koshi river.

    • Day 2 Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) - 06 hrs

      Namche Bazaar altitude: 3445 m above sea level

      Walking duration: 6 to 7 hours

      Overnight at Namche Bazaar

      After your overwhelming first night in the Everest region, you now head to your second-day destination, which is Namche Bazaar. Today's trek is challenging as you gain nearly 1200 m elevation at once.

      You leave Phakding after breakfast and start by crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. Then passing small settlements, you reach the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu ticket-checking counter.

      After checking your permits, you follow the stair paths through the jungle and alongside the river. If you are fortunate, you might see some endangered wild animals.

      The trails have several small ups and downs until you reach Jorsale, where you have lunch. After a delicious meal, you verify your permits at the Sagarmatha National Park entry point and continue further.

      From here, you keep following the steep uphill trails while viewing green valleys and snow-capped peaks in the distance. After a strenuous hike of a few hours, you arrive at Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa town, and hub of the Khumbu district.

      Namche is the gateway that leads to the different areas of the Everest region. This town is the last developed place with ATMs, cafes, western restaurants, Wi-Fi, and more.

      • Day 3 Rest day at Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and excursion

        Namche is a beautiful town that offers several side trips making it the best place for acclimatization. During your stay here, you can visit the mini-museum which is 30 minutes away from the center.

        The walk up to the museum offers a great bird's eye view of Namche, while the sight from the museum gives a great view of Lhotse, Nuptse, and more. Or you can hike up to Hotel Everest View for a more exciting adventure.

        The trail to the hotel is a 3 to 4 hours long uphill walk from Namche. You pass some traditional villages like Khumjung and make a zigzag hike through dirt paths and stairs.

        Reaching the hotel, you have lunch here while enjoying the view of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and many more. You explore the village for an entire day and return to Namche for the night.

        • Day 4 Trek to Dole (4,200 m) - 06 hrs

          Dole altitude: 4150 m above sea level

          Walking duration: 7 hours

          Overnight at Namche Bazaar

          After breakfast, you leave the town and continue your trek towards Dole. You climb above it while following the flat trail beyond Dudh Koshi River. You keep moving forward to Kyangjuma while viewing Kantega and Ama Dablam.

          From Kyangjuma, you walk down the route to Sansa and follow the Gokyo signpost. You first make a steep ascent along the narrow paths and through the dense forests.

          The trails keep ascending and lead you to Mong La, a small Rai village. From here, you climb uphill along the barren and rocky path while enjoying the scenic setting.

          Then you make a steep decline along the dusty trail to Phortse Tenga, where you stop for lunch. The walks are fairly pleasant from here onwards, with gradual climbs through the rhododendron forest.

          After walking for hours, you reach Dole which emerges above the treeline. This village is a cluster of trekking lodges rather than actual homes. It offers a spectacular view of Khumbila and Tawache.

          • Day 5 Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m) - 04 hrs

            Machhermo altitude: 4470 m above sea level

            Walking duration: 4 to 5 hours

            Overnight at Machhermo

            You are already above the treeline, and the trails will only take you higher from here. After breakfast, you leave the village towards Machhermo. The walk between these places is straightforward with gentle climbs.

            You start by ascending the trails to Lopharma while viewing Cho Oyu at a distance. Then, you gain elevation and trek through the forest while passing waterfalls.

            During the walk, you might see mountain goats, musk deer, and pheasants. After walking for half an hour, you reach Luza and stop for lunch. Regaining your energy, you trek down to the river and slowly climb uphill toward Machhermo.

            This beautiful village offers a breathtaking view of Taboche, Kajyori, Cholatse, and Cho Oyu.

            • Day 6 Trek to Gokyo Lake (4,800 m) - 04 hrs

              Gokyo Altitude: 4750 m above sea level

              Walking duration: 3 to 4 hours

              Fifth Lake altitude: 4980 m above sea level

              Hiking duration: 4 to 5 hours

              Overnight at Gokyo

              You leave the beautiful village after a delicious meal. The trail separates from here as one crosses over the Dudh Koshi river towards Na, while another leads you to Gokyo, and you choose the latter.

              The journey starts by ascending a small hill and walking over its edge while enjoying the exotic view of Cho Oyu in front and the Khantega gorge below. The valley keeps expanding with the routes to Pangram at 4390m beyond the ridge.

              You then descend the trails down to the river bank and continue taking a steep uphill path through the moraines of Ngozumpa glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal.

              From here, you keep moving forward and reach Longpongo lake, followed by Raboche Tsho (the second lake) in the next half an hour or so. From Raboche, the trail separates as one path crosses the glacier to Thagnak, while another moves along the glacier and leads to Gokyo.

              Taking the latter option, you gradually climb the trails and arrive at Gokyo. You have lunch here and leave your belongings in the lodge to continue towards Fifth Gokyo Lake.

              You head north from the valley, gaining altitude, and reach Thonak Tsho (the fourth lake). Then, you follow the path doing a gradual climb uphill to Ngozumpa Tso, the fifth lake.

              The place offers a beautiful view of Mt. Cho Oyu, Ngozumpa glacier, Nuptse, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and more. Enjoy the view and head down to Gokyo for the night.

              • Day 7 Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri (5360 m)

                Gokyo Ri altitude: 5357 m above sea level

                Walking duration: 4 to 5 hours

                Overnight at Gokyo

                You spend another day in Gokyo to explore the beautiful valley and climb Gokyo Ri. The beautiful peak looms above the Gokyo village on the lake's northern edge.

                Today starts with an early morning hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri to view the beautiful sunrise. The trials lead you uphill the hillside through the dusty and rocky path.

                The routes are steep, with a gradual climb to the summit. You arrive at the top while it's still dark, so there will not be much to see. But once the sun begins to rise and shine over the peaks and valleys, it takes your breath away.

                The sunrise view from Gokyo Ri is not to be missed, with the golden rays shining over the snowy peak. After a while, you get to enjoy the beautiful sight of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and more.

                You capture the moments and stay there for some time, then descend to the village following the same route. You then have breakfast and explore the village and its nearby area.

                The remaining day goes by exploring around and interacting with the villagers.

                • Day 8 Cross Renjo - La (5,360 m) and descend to Lungden (4,380 m ) - 07 hrs

                  Renjo La Pass altitude: 5360 m above the level

                  Lungden altitude: 4350 m above sea level

                  Walking duration: 7 to 8 hours

                  Overnight at Lungden

                  The trek today as long as you cross over one of the three high passes. You leave the village after breakfast and start by gently climbing uphill over the grassy area.

                  The climb gradually becomes steeper as you continue walking uphill to the top. After trekking the steep complex trails, you are offered the panoramic view of Rolwaling, Tengo ragi Rau, etc., in the west, while Makalu, Everest, Gokyo Lake in the east.

                  You spend some time admiring the beautiful scenarios and trek down to Lungden. The trails follow through a beautiful meadow to Bhote Koshi River and continue alongside it.

                  Walking past yak caravans and several small settlements, you reach Lungden. The village shows you the unforgettable view of Lhotse, Taboche, and more.

                  • Day 9 Trek to Thame village (3,880 m) via Marlung - 06 hrs

                    Thame altitude: 3850 m above sea level

                    Walking duration: 6 to 7 hours

                    Overnight at Thame

                    You begin the trek from Lungden to Thame after breakfast. You descend south of the trails peacefully along the river while passing stone houses. After walking for an hour or two, you reach Maralung and cross over Bhote Koshi River.

                    You now follow the traditional route that Tibetan Traders used for centuries. From here, you enter the beautiful forest of rhododendron and descend to Taranga.

                    The trail winds you through the Langmuche Khola valley and leads you to Thame. The trek today is an excellent combination of stoic endurance and transcendent joy.

                    Arriving at Thame, you have lunch and head to the Thame monastery, where spiritual Buddhist practices are done. You get to see the beautiful views of Ama Dablam, Makalu, and more from here.

                    • Day 10 Trek to Namche Bazaar via Thame - 05 hrs

                      Walking duration: 6 hours

                      Overnight at Namche

                      Today's trek is mostly descended from Thame to Namche Bazaar, making the hike pleasant. It is a mixture of downhills, flat sections, and short uphill climbs in some parts.

                      Leaving the village, the trail takes you steeply down to the Dudh Koshi river. You then cross over it using a suspension bridge and enter the beautiful forest of rhododendrons and oaks.

                      You then gradually climb uphill for another couple of hours and descend to a valley. From there, you again cross over the river and come across a more forested area.

                      Then continue the walk for another hour or so, until you arrive at Namche Bazaar. You can refresh and roam around the town while enjoying the beautiful view.

                      • Day 11 Trek to Lukla - 06 hrs

                        Walking duration: 7 to 8 hours

                        Overnight at Lukla

                        Today is your final day in the Everest region as you head back to Lukla from Namche. It is a long downhill walk through dense forests, suspension bridges, and past the villages.

                        Following the same trails back, your time inside the beautiful Sagarmatha National Park ends. You walk up and downhill several routes before you reach Lukla.

                        Lukla is a beautiful town of Sherpas; explore the place and enjoy the views of the Himalayas.

                        • Day 12 Fly back to Kathmandu

                          Kathmandu altitude: 1400 m above sea level

                          Today you wake up early and catch the flight back to Kathmandu. Looking at the beautiful scenarios, you leave the peaceful nature behind and return to the noisy city.

                          After landing at the airport, your Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek ends. We hope you had a fun time with TrekEBC and will remember us for other treks.

                          What to Expect

                          • All Domestic flights and airport tax as listed in the itinerary
                          • Standard meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
                          • Government license holder guide
                          • A strong and helpful porter with proper equipments (1 porter for 2 people)
                          • Salary,food,accommodaation and insurance for guide and porters
                          • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card
                          • Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
                          • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
                          • Comprehensive first aid kit
                          • Government taxes and official expenses
                          • International Airfare and taxes
                          • Nepal entry visa fee
                          • Your Travel Insurance (compulsory)
                          • Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu
                          • Entrance fee in the heritage sites during city tour.
                          • All the expenses of personal nature
                          • Any kind of drinks and desserts during the trek
                          • Tips for guide and porter (Tipping is expected)
                          Request a Private Date

                          Group Discount Price (Per Person):

                          1 Pax = US$ 1350
                          2 Pax - 4 Pax = US$ 1325
                          5 Pax - 9 Pax = US$ 1300
                          10 Pax + = US$ 1275

                          Useful Information

                          FAQS

                          How is the accommodation like on Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek?

                          The accommodation is fundamental throughout the Gokyo Renjo La Trek. Every room has twin beds with pillows and mattresses. However, there are no heating and electricity facilities; instead, dim solar light is available.

                          Is the trek possible and suitable for first-timers?

                          Yes, the trek is possible and suitable for first-timers, but you need to be reasonably fit and able to walk 6 to 7 hours daily. You need to increase your muscle build and leg strength through exercises like cycling, swimming, and more.

                          Do we need insurance for this trek?

                          Yes, insurance is 100% compulsory before beginning your Gokyo and Renjo La Trek. The insurance should cover your emergency helicopter evacuation, injuries, theft, and more.

                          Is Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek Dangerous?

                          No, this trek is not dangerous at all, but it is challenging and tricky. There are no technical climbs or reaching over 6000 m summits, but it has harsh and steep uphill ascends.

                          When is the right time to visit Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?

                          All the seasons are possible to do the trek, but spring and autumn are the right time to visit Gokyo Renjo La Pass. The weather and temperature are correct for trekking in the Himalayas.

                          Difficulties Faced during Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek

                          Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek takes you high in the mountains, so it will not be easy. You will face many known and unknown difficulties during the trip, and some are:

                          Altitude Sickness

                          Altitude sickness is always a concern if you are going for a high-altitude trek. The air is thin in tall places, so the oxygen level is also low, which causes acute mountain sickness for a few.

                          The Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek takes you above 5000 m for most of the journey, so the chances of AMS are more. However, every person has a different build, so not every visitor suffers from altitude sickness.

                          Some regular signs of altitude sickness are headache, nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulty, sleep deprivation, dizziness, and more. The symptoms worsen with the illness and are fatal to your life, so the best advice is to inform your guide or companion.

                          If you are a solo traveler, do not continue the trek instead, acclimatize where you are for a few days. If the symptoms do not decrease, then trek down to lower altitudes.

                          Finding Accommodation

                          Many might be confused about why finding accommodation will be difficult. If you have not traveled during peak season without booking, you won’t know about the tension and stress.

                          During spring and autumn, the routes overflow with trekkers, so no lodges or tea houses are empty. If you have no reservation, then you might not find any rooms on arrival.

                          Due to lack of availability, many people sleep on the kitchen floor or lobby. Sometimes the lobby and kitchen are also packed, so people camp outside. Thus, finding accommodation is a problem during peak seasons.

                          Weather and temperature

                          Weather and temperature are other factors that can change the outcome of your Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek. This is a significant problem when traveling during winter and monsoons.

                          During the off-season, the weather and temperature are unfavorable to trekking in higher regions. Due to bad weather conditions, the trips can get delayed or halted mid-way.

                          There are occurrences of route blockage due to heavy snow in winter. Likewise, the trails are slippery, muddy, and wet during monsoons, making it hard to continue at some points.

                          Lousy weather conditions also affect your flight schedule as it does not operate at that time. So, the chances of plane delay and cancellation are also high.

                          Tips for Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek

                          You can’t change mishaps, but you can prevent them from happening, so we have mentioned a few tips to follow for Gokyo Renjo La Pass:

                          Acclimatize

                          The most important thing to do during a trek is to acclimatize. You should hold acclimatization for one or two days before reaching high elevation. So, when preparing an itinerary, choose the ones with more days.

                          Acclimatization is the best way to prevent altitude sickness. During rest days, you do not sleep all day; instead, you climb to higher places to let your body adjust to the current elevation.

                          Traveling to high places without acclimatization will be risky, even for professionals. So, be careful and do not fool around in the mountains.

                          Train before the Trek

                          Many people begin the trek without training their bodies and mind, so they quickly get sick or tired, thus losing motivation to walk further. So, we always recommend trekkers do physical exercises before starting the trek.

                          You do not need to hit the gym or hire a trainer for the exercises. Instead, you can do simple training like cycling, walking for 4 to 5 hours each day, hiking to high altitude places, swimming, and more.

                          You need to do exercises that build muscle and leg strength to increase stamina. These physical exercises can be done 2 to 3 weeks before the trek.

                          Carry a bottle and drink plenty of fluids

                          Another important tip is to carry a personal bottle for the Gokyo Renjo Pass Trek. The chances of dehydration are more as you lose plenty of fluid in sweat, so always fill your bottle and carry it along with you.

                          Bottled water is available in the trials, but they cost triple the actual price. So, instead of spending more on bottled water, you can bring your bottle and refill water from lodges at half the price.

                          Carry Cash

                          The rural areas of Nepal are still not developed and the parts in the Himalayas are worse, so you won’t find any ATMs or banks at higher places. The last atm is seen in Namche and it is broken most of the time.

                          So, before leaving Kathmandu, carry enough cash for your expenses like snacks, hot showers, etc. Moreover, exchange your bills and carry the equivalent cash as the people in the Himalayas do not accept dollars or other currencies except NPR.

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