Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek Overview

Embark on the thrilling Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek — a high-altitude adventure through shimmering turquoise lakes, towering Himalayan giants, and the wild, untamed beauty of the Khumbu! Conquer the dramatic Renjo La Pass at 5,360m for jaw-dropping panoramic views that will steal your breath and your heart.

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is an exciting excursion coming from the Gokyo Lakes Region, or the southwest region of the Everest region. It begins at the mountain airstrip at Lukla, the trail ascends as far as 5,356 meters, and drops into the breathtaking Bhote Koshi Valley. From trekking to Sherpa settlements, pine forests, high alpine valleys, and serene Gokyo Lakes, while floating above the immense Ngozumpa Glacier. This trek is for those who prefer manageable adventure with amazing views of the Himalaya while having solitude at the same time.

This trek offers a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, the Gokyo Lakes, in addition to the breathtaking sunrise hike up Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), which reveals unobstructed vistas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—the world’s four tallest peaks. At Renjo La Pass, there is a dramatic high point, quite literally, with wide-ranging views over the entire Everest range. In comparison to more popular routes, the area is much less crowded, which adds more beauty to the experience. Along the way, Sherpa culture comes to life in places such as Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Gokyo, as well as while walking alongside the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

Looking for a less crowded option than the Everest Base Camp trek? The Gokyo Renjo La route might be just what you need. This path gives you views that match or even top those of Everest Base Camp, plus more peace and a real feel of wild adventure. You'll find a mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and physical tests on this trail, but you won't need special climbing skills. The trek takes you through a range of sights - lakes, ice fields, high mountain passes, and quiet valleys. It's a complete Himalayan journey that seasoned hikers who want to avoid busy paths will never forget.

Highlight of Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek

Six amazing glacier-formed lakes with clear blue-green water rank among the world's highest freshwater lake systems.
A tough lookout point that gives you a wide view of four of the planet's tallest mountains — Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
This pass belongs to the Three High Passes of the Everest area, offering jaw-dropping mountain scenery and an exciting high-altitude crossing.
The Himalayas' longest glacier, which you can see up close as you hike from Gokyo to the pass.
This trek is quieter than the Everest Base Camp trail, giving you a more peaceful and out-of-the-way experience.
You'll always see striking scenes of tall, snow-covered peaks, including Everest, from unique angles you can't see on the main trail.
With their age-old monasteries and yak herders, you can dive into the local culture in old villages like Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Gokyo.
The lively Sherpa hub and a crucial spot to adjust to the altitude, offering stores, eateries, and sights of Kongde Ri and Thamserku.
Sagarmatha National Park is home to animals such as Himalayan thar, snow leopards (uncommon), musk deer, and vibrant pheasants.

Why Choose Nepal Horizon Treks?

Our guides have deep roots in the area and hold proper licenses. They know the Gokyo Valley and Renjo La Pass inside out, which helps to keep you safe and gives you a real taste of the culture as you trek.
At Nepal Horizon Treks, we know each person who treks is different. We can change our plans to fit how fast you want to go, what you like, and why you're traveling. This works for both seasoned hikers and those new to trekking.
Keeping you safe tops our list. We make sure our guides know what to do, carry first-aid kits, and can get help fast if needed. We keep a close eye on altitude sickness and build in time for your body to adjust to the height.
Our trek packages give you good value without cutting corners on comfort or how we treat you. We don't hide any costs - you'll see fair prices and get great service.
Nepal Horizon Treks cares about sustainable tourism. We champion eco-friendly trekking methods and back local communities by employing local staff and using green resources.
When you trek with us, you make connections. We push for interaction with Sherpa communities nearby, discovery of old monasteries, and involvement in traditional ways of life.
Hikers worldwide give our services top ratings on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google. Their feedback shows our commitment to excellent work.
Choose your trek style—join a small group to meet new people or go private for a more intimate experience. We give you options without cutting corners on quality.
We take care of everything from securing permits to booking places to stay, providing meals on the trek, and offering porter help. This lets you concentrate on enjoying your trip.
Our staff stands ready to help you with a quick message or phone call before you leave, while you're on the trail, and after you return home.

How to prepare for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek

Preparing for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek requires both physical readiness and logistical planning. Here's a comprehensive guide to help trekkers get ready for this incredible Himalayan adventure:

1. Physical Fitness Training

The Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek is moderately to strenuously challenging due to high altitudes and steep climbs. Preparation should begin at least 6–8 weeks in advance.

Cardiovascular training: Hiking, running, cycling, or swimming at least 3–4 times a week to improve stamina.
Strength training: Focus on legs (squats, lunges), core, and back to handle the long trekking days.
Hiking practice: Go on practice hikes with a loaded backpack to simulate real conditions.
Breathing exercises: Practice deep breathing or yoga to help with altitude adjustment.

2. Acclimatization Awareness

Understand the importance of acclimatization days during the trek.
Learn symptoms of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) and how to respond.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol during the trek to reduce altitude risks.

3. Packing Essentials

Pack light but smart. Here's a basic checklist:

Clothing:
- Base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
- Fleece or insulated jackets
- Down jacket (for high passes)
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Trekking pants, t-shirts (quick-dry)
- Warm hat, sunhat, gloves, buff/scarf
Footwear:
- Well-broken-in trekking boots
- Sandals for evenings
- Wool and synthetic socks
Gear:
- Sleeping bag (suitable for -15°C)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Trekking poles
- Backpack (40–50L)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen and lip balm
Health & Hygiene:
- Basic first aid kit (painkillers, band-aids, altitude meds)
- Water purification tablets or a filter
- Personal toiletries
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer

4. Mental Preparation

Be ready for basic lodges, unpredictable weather, and long trekking days.
Keep a positive mindset and flexible attitude—it's a journey as much as a destination.

5. Travel Documents & Permits

Make sure you have:

Valid passport and Nepal visa
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
Local Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

6. Book with a Trusted Trekking Company

Booking with a reliable and experienced company like Nepal Horizon Treks means:

No hassle with permits and logistics
Trained guides for safety and cultural insights
Pre-trip briefings and preparation support

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek 12 days Map Overview

Day	Route	Altitude (m)	Trekking Time	Highlights
1	Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding	2,610 m	3–4 hrs	Scenic flight, first walk along Dudh Koshi River
2	Trek to Namche Bazaar	3,440 m	6–7 hrs	First Everest views, Sherpa capital
3	Acclimatization in Namche (Hike to Everest View Hotel)	3,880 m (hike)	2–3 hrs	Panoramic Everest, Ama Dablam, Khumbu culture
4	Trek to Dole	4,200 m	5–6 hrs	Rhododendron forests, fewer crowds, and the start of Gokyo Valley
5	Trek to Machhermo	4,470 m	4–5 hrs	Glacier views, gradual ascent
6	Trek to Gokyo	4,790 m	4–5 hrs	Beautiful Gokyo Lakes, tranquil setting
7	Hike Gokyo Ri, explore the lakes	5,360 m (peak)	3–4 hrs	Sunrise view of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, lakes
8	Cross Renjo La Pass to Lungden	5,360 m (pass)	6–7 hrs	Stunning high pass, alpine scenery
9	Trek to Thame	3,800 m	4–5 hrs	Remote Sherpa village, monasteries
10	Trek to Namche Bazaar	3,440 m	4–5 hrs	Downhill trail, peaceful landscapes
11	Trek to Lukla	2,840 m	6–7 hrs	Final trek day, celebration with the team
12	Fly to Kathmandu	1,400 m	35 min flight	Return to city life, optional shopping, or rest

gokyo renjo la pass trek graph

The 12-day Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is a breathtaking journey through the serene Gokyo Valley and over one of the most stunning high mountain passes in the Everest region. The adventure begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a trek through picturesque Sherpa villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar, where trekkers acclimatize and soak in their first views of Everest. The route then veers off the classic Everest trail into the peaceful Dudh Koshi Valley, reaching the alpine settlements of Dole and Machhermo before arriving at the tranquil turquoise Gokyo Lakes. A sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360m) offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. The journey’s highlight is crossing the challenging yet rewarding Renjo La Pass, where trekkers are rewarded with unforgettable Himalayan vistas. The descent passes through the quiet village of Thame before reconnecting with the main trail in Namche and returning to Lukla. This trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and thrilling adventure—ideal for those seeking a less crowded alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route.

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek 12 Days Itinerary Outline

Day	Route	Altitude (m)	Duration	Key Highlights
1	Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, trek to Phakding	Lukla: 2,860Phakding: 2,610	Flight: 30–35 minTrek: 3–4 hrs	Scenic mountain flight, Dudh Koshi River, Sherpa villages
2	Phakding to Namche Bazaar	3,440	5–6 hrs	Suspension bridges, Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Hill
3	Acclimatization in Namche	3,440	2–3 hrs (side hike)	Everest View Hotel hike, Khumjung village, panorama of the Everest region
4	Namche to Dole	4,200	5–6 hrs	Rhododendron forests, yak pastures, great views
5	Dole to Machhermo	4,470	4–5 hrs	Peaceful trail, alpine scenery, glacial rivers
6	Machhermo to Gokyo	4,790	4–5 hrs	First views of Gokyo Lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, Cho Oyu
7	Gokyo Ri hike & explore the lakes	5,360 (Gokyo Ri)	3–4 hrs (RT hike)	Sunrise over Everest, 4th and 5th lakes exploration
8	Gokyo to Lungden via Renjo La Pass	Renjo La: 5,360Lungden: 4,380	7–8 hrs	Thrilling high pass, stunning alpine views, fewer trekkers
9	Lund to Thame	3,800	4–5 hrs	Traditional Sherpa village, Thame monastery, peaceful route
10	Thame to Namche Bazaar	3,440	4–5 hrs	Scenic route, local culture, returning to bustling Namche
11	Namche to Lukla	2,860	6–7 hrs	Final descent, suspension bridges, last mountain night
12	Fly Lukla to Kathmandu	Kathmandu: 1,400	Flight: 30–35 min	Final aerial views of the Himalayas, end of trek

Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek Itinerary

You start with an exciting early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a thrilling 30 to 35-minute journey offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. From Lukla (2,860m), you trek downhill along the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding (2,610m), a small Sherpa village. This first day is mainly to get your legs moving and to soak in the beautiful mountain environment.

MEALS

MEALS

Breakfast, dinner, Lunch

The trek concludes with a short flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu (1,400m). This scenic flight provides a last aerial view of the Himalayas before you return to the bustling city and reflect on your unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

MEALS

Breakfast, dinner, Lunch

Cost Includes/Excludes

What are Included In My Package ?

Airport pickup & drop-off by private vehicle
2 nights' hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
Round-trip flight: Kathmandu ↔ Lukla
All necessary permits (Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS, and local fees)
Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
One porter for every two trekkers (15 kg max per trekker)
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Teahouse/lodge accommodations during the trek
First aid kit and safety equipment carried by guide
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trek)
All government taxes and trekking agency service charges

What are excluded from the package ?

International flights to/from Nepal
Nepal visa fees
Travel insurance (must include helicopter evacuation)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Personal expenses (hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, snacks, drinks)
Tips for guide and porter (recommended $5–$10 per day)
Extra accommodation or transportation outside the itinerary due to flight delays or weather

FAQs

The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is a high-altitude trekking route located in the Everest region of Nepal. Unlike the standard Everest Base Camp trek, this trail takes you through the pristine Gokyo Valley and crosses the challenging Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters). It rewards trekkers with panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, and serene glacial lakes, especially the stunning Gokyo Lakes.

This trek is categorized as moderate to challenging. While it doesn't require technical climbing skills, the high altitude and steep climbs—especially while crossing Renjo La Pass—demand good physical fitness and mental preparation. Altitude sickness is a concern, so proper acclimatization and hydration are essential.

The best seasons for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek are:

Spring (March to May) – Colorful rhododendron blooms and mild weather.
Autumn (September to November) – Clear skies, crisp air, and stable conditions.

These months offer the best visibility of the Himalayan peaks, making your trek both safer and more scenic.

On average, the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek takes about 12 to 15 days. This includes travel to and from Lukla, acclimatization days, and time to explore the Gokyo region. Trekkers often combine this route with the Everest Base Camp or Three Passes Trek for a longer and more immersive experience.

Yes, two essential permits are required:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit – Protects the natural heritage of the Everest region.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit – A local permit introduced in place of the TIMS card for the Everest region.

These permits can be arranged in Kathmandu or Lukla before your trek begins.

Traveller Useful Information

Ready to experience the Himalayas beyond the ordinary? The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is your ultimate gateway to breathtaking alpine beauty, serene glacial lakes, and uncrowded high-mountain trails. Perfect for adventurers seeking a less-traveled path, this 12-day journey offers stunning views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu from the top of Renjo La Pass (5,360m), along with the magical charm of Gokyo’s turquoise lakes. If you’re looking for a trek that combines challenge, solitude, and unforgettable scenery, this is it. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!#NepalHorizonTrek

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