GOKYO RENJO LA PASS TREK 9 DAYS
GOKYO RENJO LA PASS TREK 9 DAYS
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is a thrilling 9-day adventure in the Everest region, offering a unique combination of stunning Himalayan views, remote Sherpa villages, and the challenging Renjo La Pass. This trek takes you through one of the most spectacular parts of Nepal, blending high-altitude trekking with breathtaking panoramas.
The journey begins in Lukla, where you'll take a scenic flight from Kathmandu. From Phakding, the trail leads to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. This vibrant town is perfect for acclimatization and offers incredible views of peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
After acclimatizing in Namche Bazaar, you head towards Dole and then to Machhermo, two quiet villages that offer tranquility amidst the towering mountains. As you trek higher, you'll reach Gokyo, a beautiful settlement next to the stunning Gokyo Lakes. These turquoise glacial lakes provide some of the best views in the entire region, with Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu as a backdrop.
The highlight of this trek is the Renjo La Pass (5,360 meters). After leaving Gokyo, you will ascend to the pass, which provides an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the Everest massif. The descent leads you to Thame, a charming Sherpa village, and eventually back to Namche Bazaar.
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is ideal for trekkers who seek a quieter alternative to the popular Everest Base Camp trek while still enjoying exceptional views and experiencing Sherpa culture. It is challenging but rewarding, offering both natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment. The trek ends with a return flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, completing an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
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 mountain airstrip nestled in the Everest region. Upon arrival, you will begin your trek with a descent to Phakding. The trail is relatively easy and passes through beautiful forests, alongside the Dudh Koshi River, offering glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks. Phakding is a small village where you'll rest overnight in a local tea house.
Day 2 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
After breakfast, begin the ascent towards Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Everest region. The trail meanders through dense forests of pine and rhododendron, with several suspension bridges crossing the Dudh Koshi River. The climb is challenging, but the views of peaks like Thamserku and Kongde will keep you motivated. Upon arrival in Namche Bazaar, enjoy stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. This vibrant Sherpa town offers a great place for acclimatization.
Day 3 : Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar.
Spend the day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the altitude. This is an important rest day to help your body adjust before continuing to higher altitudes. You can explore Namche and its surrounding areas, visit the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest and other peaks, or take a short hike to Syangboche or the Khunde village for cultural insights. Acclimatization is key to avoiding altitude sickness on this trek.
Day 4 : Trek to Dole (4,150 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Leaving Namche Bazaar, you will trek toward Dole, passing through beautiful pine forests and Sherpa villages. The trail gradually ascends, and you’ll start to feel the effects of the higher altitude. Along the way, enjoy views of Kantega and Thamserku. Dole is a small village with stunning mountain views, and the night will be spent in a comfortable tea house.
Day 5 : Trek to Gokyo (4,750 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today’s trek takes you towards Gokyo, a peaceful settlement located near the stunning Gokyo Lakes. The path involves a steep ascent, passing through Machhermo and then on to the Gokyo Valley. As you gain elevation, the scenery becomes even more spectacular, with views of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu. Once in Gokyo, enjoy the serene atmosphere and the breathtaking beauty of the turquoise lakes surrounded by towering peaks.
Day 6 : Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m) & Return to Gokyo Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today, you will hike up to Gokyo Ri, a peak located above the Gokyo Lakes that offers unparalleled views of the Everest massif, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the surrounding peaks. The hike is strenuous, but the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort. After spending some time at the top, you will descend back to Gokyo for the night.
Day 7 : Cross the Renjo La Pass and Trek Down to Thame (3,850 m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
This is the most challenging day of the trek as you will cross the Renjo La Pass at an altitude of 5,360 meters. The ascent is steep, but the reward is incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After crossing the pass, you will begin the descent to Thame, a beautiful Sherpa village. The long day of trekking will be compensated by stunning landscapes and a comfortable tea house stay in Thame.
Day 8 : Trek to Lukla (2,860 m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
After a restful night in Thame, you will trek back to Lukla. The descent is easier but still involves some uphill sections. As you approach Lukla, take in the beautiful scenery one last time. Once in Lukla, celebrate the completion of the trek with your team and fellow trekkers. This marks the end of your high-altitude adventure in the Everest region.
Day 9 : Fly Back to Kathmandu Duration: 30-minute flight.
After breakfast, take a morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu, where you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Kathmandu, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve just completed in the Everest region.
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
- Altitude & Acclimatization: The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters. It's important to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness. Make sure to take it slow, drink plenty of water, and allow your body time to adjust.
- Weather & Best Time to Trek: The best time for this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear, offering stunning mountain views. Winter months (December to February) are cold and the summer monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rainfall.
- Fitness Level: This trek requires a good level of fitness. It's a moderate to challenging trek, especially when crossing the Renjo La Pass. Prepare in advance by hiking on steep trails, carrying a backpack, and building stamina for high-altitude trekking.
- Permits Required: You will need several permits to trek in the Everest region, including the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit. These can be obtained through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu or Lukla.
- Accommodation: Tea houses are available throughout the trek, providing basic accommodation with shared facilities. While the rooms are simple, they offer a comfortable place to rest after long days of trekking. Meals are also provided, offering local Nepalese dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) and international options.
- Guide & Porter: While the trek can be done independently, hiring a guide and/or porter is highly recommended, especially for navigating the Renjo La Pass. A guide will enhance your experience with local insights and ensure safety, while a porter can carry your heavy gear.
- Packing Essentials: Be sure to pack warm clothing, including a down jacket, and appropriate footwear for snow and rocky terrain. Don't forget sun protection, a first-aid kit, and a water bottle with purification tablets.
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
What is the best time to do the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
The best time to trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies and ideal trekking conditions.
How difficult is the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
The trek is moderately challenging, especially due to the high altitude and the Renjo La Pass crossing. It requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience.
Do I need a guide and porter for the trek?
While it's possible to trek independently, it is highly recommended to hire a guide and/or porter. A guide can assist with navigation and offer insights into the local culture, while a porter can carry your heavy gear.
What permits do I need for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
You’ll need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an entry permit for the Sagarmatha National Park. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Lukla.
How high is the Renjo La Pass?
The Renjo La Pass is at an elevation of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet), offering spectacular views of the Everest massif.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk when trekking above 3,000 meters. It's crucial to acclimatize properly by taking rest days and staying hydrated.
What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
Tea houses are available along the trek. These basic lodgings offer shared rooms and meals, including local Nepalese dishes like dal bhat.
What should I pack for the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?
You should pack warm clothing (including a down jacket), trekking boots, sun protection, a first-aid kit, water purification tablets, and a good camera for capturing the stunning views.
How long does the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek take?
The trek typically takes around 9 days, including acclimatization and rest days, though it can vary depending on your pace.
Is it safe to trek in this region?
Yes, the Everest region is generally safe for trekkers. However, it's essential to follow safety guidelines, acclimatize properly, and take precautions against altitude sickness. A guide can help ensure your safety.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
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.
Write Your Review
Average Customer Ratings
How The Travellers Have Rated This Package
5291
109
2
0
0
People Considering This Package Right Now Check availability
