GOKYO RENJO LA PASS TREK 12 DAYS
GOKYO RENJO LA PASS TREK 12 DAYS
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is one of the most spectacular and adventurous treks in the Everest region of Nepal. This trail offers a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and a challenging adventure. The trek takes you through the stunning Gokyo Valley and culminates at the Renjo La Pass, a high-altitude pass that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Starting from Lukla, the trek follows the classic Everest Base Camp route before diverging towards Dole and Machhermo. The journey passes through dense forests, traditional Sherpa villages, and beautiful rhododendron forests, offering a deep connection to the local culture. As you ascend, the landscape transforms, revealing awe-inspiring views of towering peaks like Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the serene Gokyo Lakes, a series of sacred turquoise lakes nestled at the foot of snow-capped peaks. The lakes provide a tranquil spot for trekkers to rest and marvel at the surroundings. From Gokyo, the trail continues up to the Renjo La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,360 meters. This challenging pass offers some of the most panoramic views in the region, including a unique perspective of Mount Everest and other nearby peaks.
The descent from Renjo La leads to Thame, a picturesque village known for its Buddhist monasteries and stunning mountain views. Finally, the trek concludes in Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town that serves as the gateway to the Everest region.
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a less crowded alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek. It combines physical challenges with some of the most magnificent scenery the Himalayas have to offer.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly to Lukla (2,804 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Your adventure begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small airport perched in the mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the stunning views of the Himalayas before beginning your trek. The trail to Phakding follows the Dudh Koshi River through picturesque Sherpa villages, offering the first glimpses of the beautiful mountain scenery. Overnight stay in a lodge in Phakding.
Day 2 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today's trek takes you through lush forests of rhododendron and pine trees, crossing several suspension bridges. You will pass through the villages of Benkar and Monjo, where you’ll stop for lunch. After crossing the Sagarmatha National Park entry checkpoint, the trail ascends steeply towards Namche Bazaar. This vibrant Sherpa town is the main trading hub of the Khumbu region, and you’ll spend the night here, preparing for the upcoming high-altitude journey.
Day 3 : Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization is essential at this altitude. Spend the day in Namche Bazaar for rest and exploration. You can hike to the Syangboche Airport or take a short walk to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. This day will help your body adjust to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Enjoy the local markets, shops, and cafes in Namche.
Day 4 : Trek to Dole (4,150 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Leaving Namche behind, today’s trail takes you through alpine forests before reaching the village of Dole. The path gradually ascends, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Tawache and Cho Oyu. You’ll see fewer villages as you ascend, and Dole offers a quiet, scenic setting for an overnight stay.
Day 5 : Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today’s trek is relatively short but steep, taking you to Machhermo. The path leads through the scenic valley with expansive views of the snow-capped peaks. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more barren and rugged. Machhermo is a small village that sits at the foot of the towering peaks of Cho Oyu and Tawache, offering beautiful views and a comfortable lodge for the night.
Day 6 : Trek to Gokyo (4,750 m), after Lunch Climb to Fifth Lake and Back to Gokyo Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek to Gokyo takes you through rocky terrain with stunning vistas of mountains, glaciers, and valleys. After reaching Gokyo, a small settlement on the edge of the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, you’ll have lunch and then hike up to the Fifth Lake. The Fifth Lake offers serene beauty with incredible views of surrounding peaks. Afterward, return to Gokyo for the night.
Day 7 : Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m) & Return to Gokyo Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today, you’ll wake up early for the hike to Gokyo Ri, a peak that offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Himalayas. From here, you’ll have a clear view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After soaking in the views and capturing some photos, you’ll return to Gokyo for the night.
Day 8 : Cross the Renjo La Pass and Trek Down to Lungden (4,350 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today is one of the most challenging days of the trek. After an early start, you’ll begin your ascent to the Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), one of the highest points of the trek. From the pass, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse. After descending from the pass, continue to the village of Lungden for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9 : Trek Down to Thame (3,850 m) and Visit Thame Monastery Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s descent leads you to the village of Thame, famous for its Buddhist monastery. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the Thame Monastery, one of the oldest and most important in the region, before continuing your trek. Thame offers a peaceful atmosphere, and the views of the surrounding mountains are simply spectacular.
Day 10 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Thame, descend further into the Dudh Koshi Valley. You’ll cross a suspension bridge before making the final ascent back to Namche Bazaar. Take the opportunity to explore the town again, relax, and enjoy your last night in this bustling Sherpa hub.
Day 11 : Trek Down to Lukla (2,860 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The final day of trekking will bring you back to Lukla. The path follows the same trail as your initial journey but in reverse. The descent is gentle, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery one last time. Once in Lukla, you can relax, and celebrate the completion of your trek.
Day 12 : Fly Back to Kathmandu Duration: 30-minute flight.
After a restful night in Lukla, take a morning flight back to Kathmandu. The flight offers another chance to enjoy aerial views of the Himalayas before landing back in the bustling capital city.
This concludes your incredible adventure on 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 📝
Altitude Considerations: The trek involves significant altitude gains, with the highest point being Renjo La Pass at 5,360 meters. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and to listen to your guide's recommendations to ensure your safety.
Weather Conditions: The weather in the Everest region can be unpredictable. Trekking during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) seasons offers the best weather conditions with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
Physical Fitness: The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is a challenging trek, requiring good physical fitness. Regular hiking or cardio exercises in preparation will help you to handle the demanding terrain and high altitudes.
Electricity and Charging: Electricity in the mountains is limited, and while many tea houses offer charging facilities, expect to pay a small fee. Power outages can also occur, so it's recommended to bring extra batteries for essential devices.
Packing List: A proper packing list is essential for a comfortable trek. Items like sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a personal first-aid kit are crucial. Rental gear like sleeping bags and walking poles are available, but it's best to check in advance if you plan to rent them.
Cultural Respect: The Everest region is home to Sherpa communities. Respect for local customs, traditions, and religious practices is encouraged. You may come across Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags; these should be treated with reverence.
Cash and Currency: It is advisable to carry enough cash, in Nepali rupees, for any personal expenses, as ATM services are not available beyond Namche Bazaar.
Health and Safety: Ensure you are up-to-date with vaccinations and carry any necessary medications. It's also wise to bring a water purifier or purification tablets, as clean drinking water may not always be readily available along the route.
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FAQS
Do I need prior trekking experience for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
Yes, this trek is challenging and requires prior trekking experience. It’s suitable for trekkers with a good level of physical fitness and some experience in high-altitude trekking.
What is the best time to do the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear and temperatures are moderate.
How difficult is the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitudes and steep ascents. Proper acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness.
What should I pack for the trek?
You should pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag, water purification tablets, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and personal hygiene items. A detailed packing list will be provided by your tour operator.
Are the trekking lodges (tea houses) comfortable?
Yes, the tea houses offer basic yet comfortable accommodations with a bed, blankets, and meals. However, the facilities may be simple and may lack modern amenities like hot water or electricity in some places.
Is Wi-Fi available on the trek?
Wi-Fi is available at some tea houses, but it may come with an additional charge. However, the connection can be slow or unreliable in remote areas.
What kind of meals are provided during the trek?
The trek includes three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), mostly consisting of traditional Nepali food like dal bhat (lentil soup), rice, noodles, and some international options like pasta and pancakes.
How do I handle altitude sickness during the trek?
Altitude sickness is common above 3,000 meters. To prevent it, your guide will help you with acclimatization. It's essential to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and recognize symptoms early. If needed, your guide will take precautionary measures.
Is it safe to travel alone on this trek?
While it’s possible to trek independently, it’s highly recommended to go with a guide for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Group trekking is also an excellent option for added support.
What happens if I have to leave the trek early?
If you need to return early due to sickness or other reasons, the costs of unused services like flights, accommodation, and meals are non-refundable. You will need to cover any additional expenses, including accommodation in Kathmandu.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 5402 Reviews
Poornapragnya P R
India
December 29, 2024
Outstanding experience!
This trek is probably the best starting point for people planning to trek the peaks in the Everest Region. The trek difficulty is moderate for an absolutely unprepared person, and easy for experienced hikers. The trek is filled with stunning beauty of the very diverse Himalayan terrain. It was a fine experience with dense forests, plain mountains and rocky regions. The trek to the summit was exceptional, and I witnessed the sunrise of a lifetime at the summit, along with a great panoramic view of Mt. Everest and the Greater Himalayan Range. Climatic conditions were good, except for very strong wind on the way to the summit from base camp. I profusely thank Mr. Lhakpa Sona, the Sherpa who was with me throughout the trek, making accommodation and food arrangements during the trek, and for guiding me at each step as it was my first Himalayan trek. I also thank Mr. Ang Giljin the porter, who carried my personal effects and luggage and was incredibly supportive. Finally, I thank Mr. Ram Barakoti for organizing this trek for me. I'm already making plans for my next trek to Gokyo valley and Mt. Gokyo Ri summit with Lhakpa, as the next step towards my dream of summiting Mt. Everest. Thank you Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd. ! Let's meet again soon.
Victoria Rowland
Australia
October 23, 2024
A Journey Beyond Expectations
I embarked on the Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, and it exceeded all my expectations. The professionalism of the staff was evident from the start. Our guide was not only skilled but also friendly, making the trek enjoyable and educational. The landscapes were jaw-dropping, with diverse terrain and charming villages. Every day brought new wonders, and the support from the Sherpa team made all the difference. I can’t wait to return for another adventure!
Urszula Morańda
United Kingdom
October 23, 2024
Professionalism at Its Best
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking demonstrated professionalism at every stage of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. From the pre-trek briefing to the final goodbye, the team's organization was impressive. Our guides were skilled and experienced, ensuring our safety while encouraging us to embrace the adventure. The trek was well-structured, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the stunning landscapes and local culture. I felt well taken care of and was able to focus on enjoying the journey. This trek has sparked a passion for trekking, and I’m eager to plan my next adventure.
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