Gokyo Lakes Renjo Pass La Trek - 12 Days

gokyo-lakes-renjo-la-pass-trek
At a Glance
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude 5385m
  • Group Size 1 - 20 Person
  • Start City Kathmandu City
  • End City Kathmandu City
  • Trip Type Personal and Group Joining
  • Activity Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season September - January and March - June
Trip Highlights
  • Enjoying a tranquil, less populated route to Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes
  •  Mesmerizing emerald-green lakes at Gokyo Ri
  • Captivating Himalayan peaks including views of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,463m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m)
  • Experience Sherpa villages and Tibetan Buddhist culture

The 12 days Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek is one of the most underrated trips in Nepal.  Away from the crowded trails, this trek provides a unique, yet quintessential Everest region experience.  Passing through the heartland of the Sherpa ethnic group into the mesmerizing snow-capped mountain peaks, we enjoy the many delights of Sagarmatha National Park.  Our Gokyo Renjo La Trek takes visitors deep into the Khumbu region after crossing suspension bridges, going through picturesque terraced hillsides and Sherpa villages, and reaching high-altitude Himalayan passes.  In the process, we witness the sheer size of several of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mt. Everest (8,848 meters).  This trek is similar to the Gokyo Lakes Trek, except that we use the Renjo La Pass (5345 meters/17,536 feet) from Gokyo Lakes instead of the Cho La Pass.

Starting with a short flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, we begin our journey.  During the first several days of the trek, we experienced the unique Sherpa culture.  Sherpas are known for their unparalleled mountaineering skills, having adapted to the harsh conditions of their alpine environment.  Embedded in Sherpa heritage is a rich influence of Tibetan Buddhism, which is observed in the number of precious mani stones, colorful prayer flags, and well-known monasteries.  We feel the warmth and friendly hospitality from the Sherpa people as our excitement to trek higher into the mountains grows.  On our way up, rare species may be seen, including the musk deer, the Snow Leopard, wild goats, and many others.  Be careful though! The legendary Yeti is believed to be lurking in the region.

Though the 12 days Gokyo Renjo La Trek does not include a trip to Everest Base Camp, you’ll get plenty of Mount Everest views! Also, there are plenty of other opportunities that are unique to this trekking package, including a trip to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and the Gokyo Lakes (4,700-5,000m).  Located just west of Ngozumpa Glacier, Gokyo Ri provides a panoramic view of four stunning 8,000+ meter peaks:  Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.  The entire Gokyo Valley can be seen, as home to one of the highest settlements in the world.  The high alpine, emerald-green Gokyo Lakes, are unlike any sight in the world. We take our time, snapping photos and enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime experience.  We feel a great rush and a smile across our faces knowing that we are surrounded by the most cherished landscapes in the world. 

After Gokyo, we trudge up the Renjo La Pass (5345m), where a jagged line of mountain peaks looms straight ahead. Below, we get one last shimmering glimpse of Gokyo Lakes. From here on out, it’s down, down, down. Before reaching Namche, we stop in Thame – a village so charming, you won’t want to leave. The village fills visitors with a great sense of inner peace.

Best Time for Gokyo Lakes Renjola Pass Trek

Trekking in Gokyo is possible throughout the year, but spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather. During the spring, there is a bit more color, and the rhododendrons are blooming. Further, Gokyo Lake weather in the autumn months bestows clear skies and great views. Monsoon rain makes it hard to trek in Gokyo in June-July, while the trail is all covered in snow during the months of winter (End of January, February). December and early January is the best time for Renjo La Pass who are looking for a peaceful trail and beautiful mountain views. However, you will have to well prepare for the cold. We will handle the rest! Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Gokyo Lakes Renjola Pass Trek Difficulties

The Gokyo Renjo La Trek requires fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. The Gokyo trek distance of over 150 km is not a big deal. But walking 6 to 7 hours daily at almost 5,000 meters above sea level is not a joke. It is a physically and mentally challenging trek. Some trekking experience and cardio-vascular exercise before the Gokyo Valley trek will help you a lot.

 

Itinerary

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A representative from Breeze Adventure will welcome you at Tribhuvan Airport and take you to your hotel.  We will prepare you with information and gear for your trek.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Transport: Car/Van

Early in the morning, we catch a flight to Lukla from the Kathmandu/ Ramechap domestic airport. If you fly from Ramechap airport, you would have to drive to Ramechap airport for 4-5 hours early in the morning to catch the Lukla flight. The views from the plane build our anticipation and excitement for the trek. After landing, we are welcomed by our crew and the cool Himalayan breeze.  We pass beautiful Sherpa villages, their agricultural fields, and many mani stones and prayer wheels.  We see a spectacular view of Kusum Kanguru as we reach Phakding. Overnight in a guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 2610m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 4 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 8km

After breakfast, we begin to head to Namche Bazaar.  We cross several suspension bridges, enjoying views of Thamserku.  Following the Dudh Koshi River bank, we pass other small Sherpa villages, reaching Monjo and officially entering Sagarmatha National Park.  We stop at Jorsalle village for lunch and continue along the riverbank through pine forests.  We cross the highest suspension bridge of the Everest region, and trek upwards.  We catch our first glimpse of Mt. Everest and continue to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in a guest house.    

  • Max Altitude: 3440m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6-7 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 11km

Wake up with a pleasant view of Mt. Kongde Ri as we have our breakfast.  Today is our acclimatization day.  At higher altitudes, there is less oxygen in the air.  We must take time to let our bodies adjust to the difference.  To help acclimatize, we take a short day hike up to Sagarmatha National Park Museum and Khumjung Village.  The supposed Yeti scalp at the monastery and the Everest Viewpoint are memorable moments of the hike. Also, from the museum, we can see a perfect view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and many more pristine peaks.  On the way down, we can stop at the world’s highest 5-star hotel and enjoy a cup of tea.  Afterwards, we explored Namche Bazaar.  Namche is a major trade center in the Khumbu region and is densely populated by the Sherpa people.  The city is bustling with trekkers who have finished or are preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek.  Bakeries, cafes, equipment stores, jewelry shops, and restaurants line the streets of Namche Bazaar. Overnight in the guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 3880m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 3 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 5km

After breakfast, we ascend for 25 minutes to the top of Namche Bazaar for a nice view of Kongde Ri.  The gentle trail from here to Kyanjuma was built by Pasang Sherpa from donations given by trekkers.  Soon, a junction appears, dividing the Gokyo Lakes Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek.  Taking the Gokyo Lakes Trek path, we head up to Mong La Danda.  The view of Mt. Ama Dablam and Thamserku is amazing. After taking some photos, we will descend to Phortse Thanga and stop for lunch. Between here and Dole, we have the best chance to see the rare, majestic Musk Deer. Ascend another couple of hours through birch and juniper forests until Dole, a beautiful little village with gorgeous views of Thamserku. Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 4038m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6-7 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 14km

Dole to Machhermo takes about 4 hours on a gradual uphill path. We can see Mt. Cho Oyu after ascending 15 min from Dole. There are two small villages (Lafarma and Luza) between Dole and Machhermo that we can take a rest in. By the time we reach Machhermo, we are above the tree line, and the scenery is extraordinary. Machhermo is a very quiet village located near a river.  After having lunch, we can go to visit the river and explore the rest of the village.  Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 4470m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 4-5 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 8km

Today, we are going to see the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, a highlight of our trek.  We stop at a village on the way to have some tea and take in the surrounding beauty.  About an hour after our tea break, we will reach the first lake.  After another hour of hiking, we can see the first lake. The second lake is nearby. Both lakes are mesmerizing with their blue-green hue. We hike for another hour and arrive at the third lake. The views of Mt. Cho Oyu from here make the experience even more special. Our eyes are wide as we observe the beautiful, tranquil lake. We have our lunch here and then walk up to Ngozumpa Glacier. It is the longest glacier in the Himalayas, though it is melting rapidly because of climate change, so we are privileged to see it before it is gone. We continue to Gokyo Village. Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 4750m
  • Time: 4-5 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 9km

Again, we get an early start. However, you’ll feel well-rested from getting lots of sleep last night.  The goal is to reach Gokyo Ri before the sun rises, which provides a spectacular view to see the glowing peaks of the Everest region.  It’s a steep 600-meter climb, where we see four 8,000-meter peaks before our eyes – Mt. Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. We head back to Gokyo village for breakfast and then we explore Gokyo Lakes and the glacier. This beautiful and easy day would be a memorable day for everyone. The sunset view on the mountain blows our minds away! We overnight at the same guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 4750m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 6km

We start the day early in the morning, moving alongside Dudh Pokhari. We walk for about two hours before ascending towards the Renjo La pass. The views at Renjo La are similar to that of Gokyo Ri, though we have a different vantage point. We see Gokyo village, Ngozumpa Glacier, and the emerald green lakes. We also get outstanding views of Mt. Everest from the top of the pass. Continuing from the pass, the path winds down a stone staircase and then moves over some loose rocks to reach the south bank of the Angladumba Tsho Lake. Keep steady as well as walk down this sometimes-slippery field of ice. Along the way, we find Relama Tsho and Renjo Lake. We walk down a narrow valley filled with giant boulders to Lungden. Overnight in a guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 4500m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 7-8 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 19km

After breakfast, we begin our hike to Thame. Situated at 3800m, we will also visit the historic Thame Monastery and observe Buddhist monks’ ritual practices. We can also witness the lovely culture of the Sherpa people in the village. We will spend the night here and enjoy the much-needed rest for our downhill trek to Namche the following day. Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 3850m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 3-4 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 9km

We continue our trek down from the Sherpa villages of Thame, leaving the mountains behind us. Today we reach back to Namche Bazaar, the trekking headquarters of the Everest region, and a great place to experience the hospitality of the Sherpas. Here you can pick up any souvenirs before leaving. Overnight in a guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 3440m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 3-4 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 8km

After having breakfast with gorgeous mountain views, we start heading down to Lukla.  We head down for half an hour while enjoying the last view of Mt. Everest and say bye to the mountains. We will cross six suspension bridges and pass several Sherpa villages today before arriving in Lukla.  After crossing the highest bridge, we will walk another 3 hours to Phakding and stop for lunch.  We arrive in Lukla after 2.5 hours of walking the beautiful trail through the Sherpa settlements. Time to enjoy the last night of the Himalayas in Lukla!

  • Max Altitude: 2860m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6-7 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Walking Distance: 19km

Have breakfast and then walk to Tenzing-Hillary airport and fly back to Ramechap/Kathmandu in the morning. If we land at Ramechap, we will have to drive for 4-5 hours to Kathmandu. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city. Overnight in hotel.

Note: All the flights from/to Lukla will be operated from Ramechap for (September-November and March - May) Due to the high airtraffic in Kathmandu airport)

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Time: 30min
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Transport: Plane

Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport.  Thank you for choosing Breeze Adventure as your trekking guide!  We look forward to your next adventure with us.

  • Meals: Breakfast

This Gokyo Lakes Renjola Pass Trek itinerary is designed by our years of experienced local mountain guides. It is a tested and successful trekking itinerary for all the regular hikers. If you are a beginner hiker, and planning to do the Gokyo Lakes Renjola Pass trek with your kids or senior family members, we can design a new itinerary with more days of acclimatization days and shorter camps as you desire.

Cost Details
What's Included
  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
  • Three nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
  • All for the trek, including flights to and from Lukla.
  • Local guest house accommodation in the mountain.
  • Government-authorized experienced guides and porters
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • All equipment (sleeping bag, warm layers, etc.)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Maps
  • Service charges and government taxes
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry fee
  • Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
Add-Ons & Options

Enhance Your Gokyo Lakes Renjola Pass Trek with Exclusive Services:

Solo Travelers: Elevate your experience with a $250.00 single supplement fee.
Private Porter Service: Opt for a private porter at an additional $200.00 cost.
Helicopter Flight to Lukla: Opt for a helicopter flight to/from Lukla instead of a plane flight at an additional $450.00 one way.

Dates & Price

The given departure dates are for groups joining the trek to Gokyo Lakes Renjo La Pass. If you are not able to join these given dates or want your private trip, please contact us. we can organize your trek on your available dates.

Group Discount Prices
Number of peoplePrice per person
1 pax
US$1399
2 - 5 pax
US$1299
6 - 10 pax
US$1199
11 - 20 pax
US$1099

Essential Information

The most popular and beautiful places on Gokyo Lakes Renjola Pass Trek

Lukla

Lukla, "Gateway to Khumbu" at 2860 meters, is actually an unimaginable paradise. Its pride, Lukla airport, built in 1964, is known as the most thrilling airport in the World. Also called Hillary Airport, every trek in the Everest region begins from Lukla.

Namche Bazaar

The ancient town of Namche Bazaar has been in highlight for centuries. Early, the traders from Tibet used to sell their goods to the Indian buyer at this place. Today, it is home to the finest lodges (Even a 5-star hotel), bakery, and bar in the entire region. Namche's economic growth has been unbelievable. Also, the town offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains.

Gokyo Lakes

The World's highest freshwater lake system, Gokyo Lakes, is located at an elevation of 4,700 meters to 5,000 meters. Thonak Lake being the largest, this wetland of 7,770 ha has six major glaciers. There's Gokyo Cho which has religious importance among the locals. Gyazumpa Cho, Tanjung Cho, and Ngozumpa Cho are other major lakes.

Renjo La Pass

Renjo-La Pass at 5360m is the highest altitude we get during the Everest Gokyo Ri trek. Within the pristine Gokyo lakes, this highpass is the most challenging part of the journey. It demands seven hours of walking. The top features the mighty Everest and dozens of other mountain peaks.

Thame Village

Thame, the remote village in the Namche VDC, was the major slat trading route of the previous century. Now, it's the home to brave Sherpas like Apa Sherpa, who made a world record for conquering Everest 21 times. The ancient Thame monastery is the place for the very popular Mani Rimdu festival.

Accommodation

All our packages include accommodation at the cost.  This accommodation is included in the set itinerary.  While in Kathmandu, we provide a 2-3 Star hotel for you.  During the trek, our guides will pick the best lodge for you to stay based on their experience as well as room availability. All the accommodations will be on a twin-shared basis. In the mountain, the Shower, and toilet will be on Sharing basis. During the high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group.

Food

Nepal has a wide variety of food and it is easy to cater to your needs.  If you are a vegetarian/vegan, gluten or lactose-free, we are able to work around that if you let us know ahead of time.  During your time in the hotel in Kathmandu, your breakfast is included.  Lunch and dinner must be covered on your own.  On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.  For teahouse treks, we can order typical Nepali food, continental, Italian, Tibetan, and Indian at teahouses.  While camping, we will prepare the meals for you.  After our trek, we will have a celebration/pre-departure traditional Nepali meal in Thamel. 

Guide & Porters

A government-licensed guide will lead the trek.  All our guides have tremendous experience on the trails and are passionate about the trekking industry.  Our guides and porters are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one.  If there is any worry during your trek, our guides will address it.  Your safety is our number one priority.  For groups of more than six people, there will be two guides. For teahouse treks, there will be one porter for every two trekkers.  For camping treks, we will need more porters in order to carry the food, kitchen equipment, tents, etc.    

Acclimatization/Fitness/Experience

As many of our treks lead us high into the Himalayas, it is necessary to let our bodies sufficiently get used to the altitude.  Our treks have acclimatization days built into the itinerary.  It is best to take it slow to prevent altitude sickness.  The level of fitness necessary for our treks varies depending on the trek.  On average, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day while on the trial.  Generally, the treks can be done with an average level of fitness.  More important than fitness or experience is one’s personal determination and positive attitude toward finishing and enjoying the trek. 

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend having travel insurance before going on a trek.  We do our best to take care of you, but something can happen that is out of our control.  In case of a medical emergency, leading to a helicopter evacuation, it is best to have insurance.  You are unable to obtain medical insurance in Nepal and must do so in your home country.  Be sure that your insurance covers accidents abroad and high in the mountains. 

Best Time to Travel

The peak seasons for traveling in Nepal are during the Spring (March to May) and the Autumn (September to November).  These times provide the best scenery and clearest skies, but of course, they are a little more crowded than the off-season.  It is possible to trek during the Winter (end of January to February), but you will face cold temperatures.  It is also possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), though the views will likely be covered by clouds and there is a high chance of rainfall.

Domestic Flights

Insert a cushion of a couple of added days on your travel schedule, advised as a margin of security for your flight from Nepal. We advise that you schedule an extra two days' cushion in your itinerary. Breeze Adventure can arrange activities with your additional days in Kathmandu.

Price Per PersonUS$1399US$1500(All-Inclusive Price)
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