GOKYO RENJO LA PASS TREK 7 DAYS
GOKYO RENJO LA PASS TREK 7 DAYS
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Everest region, offering a unique blend of rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and a glimpse into the heart of the Khumbu Valley. Spanning 7 days, this trek takes you through high-altitude terrain, passing through traditional Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and pristine lakes, all while offering awe-inspiring views of the world's highest peaks.
Starting from Lukla, the trek initially follows the popular route to Namche Bazaar, providing a gradual introduction to the Himalayan landscape. From there, trekkers venture off the beaten path towards Gokyo Valley, a pristine area known for its crystal-clear lakes and spectacular mountain panoramas, including views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The highlight of this trek is crossing the Renjo La Pass, which stands at 5,360 meters (17,585 feet). The pass presents a significant physical challenge, requiring stamina, preparation, and proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is not for the faint-hearted. The combination of high-altitude passes, strenuous hiking, and unpredictable weather conditions demands careful preparation and resilience. However, those who take on this trek will be rewarded with fewer crowds and a true sense of adventure as they experience the remote, unspoiled beauty of the Everest region.
Throughout the trek, trekkers will be treated to breathtaking views of the towering Himalayan peaks, including Everest, and will have the chance to witness the rich culture of the Sherpa people. The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is a perfect choice for seasoned trekkers seeking an unforgettable experience and a challenging yet deeply rewarding adventure in the Himalayas.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly to Lukla (2,804 m) and Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
On Day 1, you will fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small mountain town, in a scenic 30-minute flight. Upon arrival at Lukla (2,804 m), the trek officially begins. From Lukla, you will embark on a descent to Phakding, where you can take a short rest. The journey continues along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges and passing small villages. After a few hours, you will begin the steep climb towards Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa capital at 3,441 meters. This bustling town offers a variety of shops, lodges, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 2 : Trek to Dole (4,150 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
After breakfast in Namche Bazaar, your trek to Dole begins. The route takes you through forests of pine and juniper trees, offering glimpses of distant peaks like Everest and Lhotse. The trail ascends gradually, passing through several Sherpa settlements like Sanasa and Mong. The climb to Dole is steady, and as you near your destination, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the Gokyo Valley and surrounding mountains. Dole (4,150 m) offers a more serene and quieter environment compared to the busy Namche Bazaar, making it a perfect place to rest and acclimatize.
Day 3 : Trek to Gokyo (4,750 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today, you'll continue ascending to Gokyo, passing through the serene alpine landscapes of the Khumbu region. The trail crosses a rocky path with distant views of Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas. The journey gradually climbs along the valley, offering stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu peaks. After several hours of trekking, you'll reach Gokyo (4,750 m), a picturesque settlement by the pristine Gokyo Lakes. The clear blue lakes set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks make Gokyo a breathtaking location to rest and acclimatize.
Day 4 : Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m) & Return to Gokyo Duration: 4-5 hours.
On Day 4, you will embark on an early morning hike to Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint located at an elevation of 5,483 meters. The ascent is steep but rewarding, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The early morning light will provide incredible photo opportunities of the snow-capped peaks and Gokyo Lakes below. After spending some time at the summit, you’ll return to Gokyo for the night. The rest of the day will be spent relaxing and acclimatizing, as the altitude can begin to take a toll on your body.
Day 5 : Cross the Renjo La Pass and Trek Down to Thame (3,850 m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
Day 5 is one of the most challenging days of the trek as you will cross the Renjo La Pass, standing at 5,360 meters. The trek begins early to avoid the worst of the afternoon winds. The climb to Renjo La is steep and strenuous, but the panoramic views from the top are worth the effort, with views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After taking in the views, you will descend toward the village of Thame, a traditional Sherpa settlement located at 3,850 meters. The descent is relatively steep, but it offers an opportunity to explore a quieter part of the Khumbu region.
Day 6 : Trek to Lukla (2,860 m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
On Day 6, you will begin the long descent to Lukla, retracing your steps through the valley and enjoying the beauty of the lower Khumbu region. The trail gradually winds down through forests, past waterfalls, and across suspension bridges, making your way back to Phakding. From Phakding, it's a final push uphill to Lukla, where you will spend your last night in the Khumbu region. This day is physically demanding as you descend from a high altitude, but the views and the sense of accomplishment will help you push through.
Day 7 : Fly Back to Kathmandu Duration: 30 minutes flight.
On the final day of your trek, you will take a short flight back from Lukla to Kathmandu. The 30-minute flight offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas, providing a fitting end to your adventure in the Everest region. Once in Kathmandu, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing, shopping, or exploring the city. You can also reflect on the incredible experience of the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek.
SERVICES
Costs Included in the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek:
- Domestic Airport Pickup and Transport: Private car/jeep transfers from the airport to your accommodation.
- Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek, along with fresh fruit served every evening after dinner.
- Accommodation: Comfortable trekking lodge (tea house) accommodation throughout the trek.
- Permits: All necessary paperwork, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Flights: Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (or Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap) flight, including private airport transfers and domestic airport tax.
- Experienced Guide: A highly skilled, friendly, and English-speaking government-licensed guide, with all expenses covered including salary, food, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- Sherpa Porters: Strong and helpful Sherpa porters (one for every two people), equipped with proper safety and walking gear, including their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance.
- Medical Supplies: Comprehensive first aid kit to handle basic medical needs.
- Emergency Helicopter Service: Arranged in case of emergencies, paid by your travel insurance company.
- Gear Rental: Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if needed) to be returned after the trek.
- Trekking T-shirt: A Sherpa Expedition and Trekking branded T-shirt as a souvenir of your trip.
- Government Taxes and Official Fees: All necessary taxes and official expenses are covered.
- Certificate of Achievement: A trip achievement certificate upon successful completion of the trek.
- Oxygen Meter: Daily monitoring of pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate to ensure your health and prevent altitude sickness.
- Assistant Guide: Available for groups of 8 or more people for added support and safety
Costs Excluded from the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek:
- Hotel Accommodation & Meals in Kathmandu: The cost of your hotel accommodation and meals (lunch and dinner) while in Kathmandu are not included.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee: The visa fee is not included, but it is easily obtainable on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The fees are as follows:
- $30 USD for 15 days
- $50 USD for 30 days
- $125 USD for 90 days
- Personal Travel & Medical Insurance: You are required to have your own travel and medical insurance covering emergency evacuation, medical issues, and trip cancellations.
- International Airfare: Your international flight to and from Nepal is not included.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses for personal items, souvenirs, or anything not specified in the inclusions are at your own cost.
- Beverages and Extra Food: All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and extra food purchased along the trek, are not covered. This also includes any desserts, chocolates, cake, pie, or pudding.
- Hot Showers and Battery Charging: Hot showers and battery charging facilities in the tea houses may require an additional charge, which is not included.
- Tips: Tips for your guide, porter, and driver are not included in the cost of the trek, but they are expected.
- Excess Baggage: Any baggage over 10 kg for the Lukla flight will incur additional charges.
Note: If you return early from the trek due to sickness or any other issue, the costs for flight, hotel, mountain room, and food are non-refundable. You will need to cover the expenses for your accommodation, meals, and other related costs in Kathmandu at your own expense.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
🌄 Good to Know About the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is a unique and adventurous journey through the Everest region of Nepal, offering trekkers stunning views of towering Himalayan peaks, serene lakes, and vibrant Sherpa culture. Here are the key highlights of the trek, complete with icons for each important point:
🚶 Trek Difficulty
This trek is a challenging journey that requires good physical fitness and previous trekking experience. The high altitude and rugged terrain demand a level of preparedness, so it's recommended for experienced trekkers. However, the effort is well worth it due to the spectacular views and unique experience.
🏞 Scenic Beauty
The trek offers unparalleled scenic beauty, passing through the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes, which are serene glacial lakes nestled at the foot of the mountains. The trek also provides dramatic views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and Makalu, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers and photographers.
🏔 Renjo La Pass
The highlight of the trek is crossing the Renjo La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet). From here, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Everest massif, including Lhotse and Makalu. Reaching the pass is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience.
🏘 Sherpa Villages
On the way to Gokyo, trekkers will encounter traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, a hub for trekkers and climbers. These villages provide insight into Sherpa culture and offer a chance to rest, acclimatize, and enjoy local hospitality.
🌬 Altitude and Acclimatization
Due to the high altitude of the trek, it is crucial to take time for acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Namche Bazaar and other villages along the route are great places to rest and adjust to the thin air.
💼 Accessibility
The trek begins from Lukla, a small mountain town accessible by flight from Kathmandu. While the flight can be challenging due to weather conditions, it adds to the adventure of reaching the starting point of this iconic trek.
🗺 Best Time to Trek
The ideal seasons for trekking the Gokyo Renjo La Pass are during the pre-monsoon (spring) months of March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) months of September to November. These months offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and the best trekking conditions.
🎒 Preparation and Packing
Trekkers should pack warm clothing for high-altitude conditions, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, and gear suitable for both the physical demands and variable weather conditions of the region. A detailed packing list can help ensure a successful and enjoyable trek.
By understanding these key points, trekkers can be better prepared for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek, ensuring both safety and enjoyment during this extraordinary Himalayan adventure.
MAP
PHOTOS/Videos
Departures
Select a departure month
Fill out the form below and a Travel Expert will reach out to create your perfect tour.
FAQS
How difficult is the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
It is a challenging trek due to steep climbs, high altitudes, and the Renjo La Pass crossing.
What is the highest altitude of the trek?
The trek reaches an altitude of about 5,360 meters (17,585 feet) at Renjo La Pass.
How many days does the Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek take?
The trek typically takes 7 days, with acclimatization and rest days included.
Do I need a guide for this trek?
While not mandatory, a guide is recommended for safety and navigation, especially on a challenging trail like Renjo La.
What permits are required for the trek?
You will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and a Sagarmatha National Park permit.
What is the best season to trek the Gokyo Renjo La Pass?
The best times are during pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November).
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk. Proper acclimatization, slow ascent, and staying hydrated are important.
What type of accommodation can I expect?
You will stay in teahouses along the trail, offering basic but comfortable accommodations.
Can I do the trek independently without a porter?
Yes, but carrying heavy gear is not recommended. Hiring a porter is common and highly helpful.
What gear should I pack for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek?
Essentials include proper trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, water purification tablets, and a good-quality backpack.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 5462 Reviews
Marcel Mastenbroek
Netherlands
April 9, 2025
Beautiful adventure
My brother and I had a great trip to the Everest Base Camp. Together with Santa our very well informed gide, who took care of us in a fantastic way and gave us much information during the hike, and Gulzen our porter (who carried each day our two bags of 10kg each plus his own bag....unbelievable). We had a wonderful time in the beautiful Himalayas, it was a lifetime experience!
Isabelle Fournier
Belgium
April 3, 2025
Incredible Journey With a True Legend
The Everest Three Pass Trek is hands-down the most beautiful and challenging trek I’ve ever done, and it was made unforgettable by our amazing guide, Pem Dorje Sherpa, from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking. Pem Dorje is a legend in every sense—calm, wise, strong, and full of stories. He knew the trails inside out and constantly kept us motivated, safe, and smiling. From the glacier crossings of Cho La to the dramatic views from Gokyo Ri, he made every moment special. One day, I struggled with altitude headaches, and Pem Dorje immediately adjusted our plan, gave me warm soup, and walked beside me at my pace. That level of care made all the difference. The trail itself is pure magic—massive peaks, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, quiet Sherpa villages, and stunning alpine lakes. We even spotted musk deer and Himalayan pheasants! Sherpa Expedition handled everything professionally, from airport pickup to gear checks. The porters were kind and efficient, and we had zero logistical issues. If you want to push yourself while being fully supported by a kind, knowledgeable guide, ask for Pem Dorje. You’ll finish stronger than you ever imagined—and happier, too.
Isabella Martinez
Australia
April 1, 2025
Sherpa-Led Magic in the Mountains – Guided by Tsering Phurba Sherpa
To say that the Everest Three Pass Trek was life-changing would be an understatement. The stunning peaks, vast glaciers, and kind people left an imprint on my soul. But what truly made the trek magical was Tsering Phurba Sherpa, our incredible guide from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking. Tsering was full of joy, laughter, and strength. He was a motivator and a protector—always keeping an eye on our group, adjusting our itinerary when needed, and celebrating every little win with us. I remember the cold mornings and long days, and how Tsering always had hot tea or a snack ready when we needed it most. His care was beyond professional—it felt personal. He even helped me with my backpack straps to ease shoulder strain, and gave away his spare headlamp to someone who lost theirs. The trek itself was everything I hoped for—raw, rugged, and rewarding. We hiked through snow, ice, rock, and forest. The Gokyo Lakes glowed like crystals, and Everest from Kala Patthar was overwhelming. Sherpa Expedition created the perfect balance between challenge and care. If you want to do this trek right, go with them—and ask for Tsering Phurba. You won’t regret it.
Write Your Review
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
5351
109
2
0
0
People Considering This Package Right Now Check availability
