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Gokyo via Renjo Pass

5 - Excellent
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Gokyo via Renjo Pass 11 Days, Difficult

Gokyo via Renjo Pass Trek is highly recommended to people who seek the real experience of the Himalayas and Himalayan lifestyle that can hardly be found elsewhere in the world. The 15-day adventure begins with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Difficult

A difficult-graded trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a top level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 5,360 m (Renjo La Pass)

Get rewarded with impressive views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, Gychung Kang, and more from the highest point of the trek.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Comfortable accommodation with basic facilities during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

Healthy and Hygienic 3-course meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Stable weather and temperature offer clear views and comfortable trekking trails.

Trip Route:

Lukla - Phakding - Namche Bazaar – Dole - Machermo – Gokyo - Gokyo Ri – Lungden via Renjo La Pass - Thame - Namche Bazaar – Lukla

Trip Highlights

  • Amazing Gokyo Valley
  • Cross the highest pass Renjo La (5,360 m)
  • Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
  • Massive Ngozumpa Glacier
  • Mesmerizing Gokyo Lake (oligotrophic glacial lakes of the Khumbu region)
  • Attractive Sherpa settlements (Dole, Machermo, Namche)
  • Sherpa locals, lifestyle, and culture
  • Impressive views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, Gychung Kang

Trip Overview

Gokyo via Renjo Pass Trek begins with a scenic flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. The real trek commences from Phakding, your first stopover during the entire trip. Further ahead are the famous villages of Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machermo, as well as many Himalayan glaciers and glacial lakes. You will also ascend to the peak of Gokyo Ri (5357 m), the only trekking peak open in the Khumbu area. From Gokyo and Gokyo Peak, you will enjoy an unmatchable panorama of the Himalayas. The climbing of Gokyo Peak will train you for Renjo Pass since the peak and the pass is of almost the same altitude.

In Gokyo via Renjo Pass Trek, another important location that offers incredible views of peaks like Mt. Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Makalu, all above 8000 m in altitude, is Gokyo Valley. The trail continues through Renjo La Pass lying as high as 5360 m; finally ends at Lukla via Thame, Dudh Pokhari, and Phakding. This is the Gokyo Ri trek with the addition of the Renjo Pass. From Lukla, you will fly back to Kathmandu by boarding a domestic flight.

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Gokyo via Renjo Pass Gallery

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Trip Outline

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Trek preparation day
Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Sightseeing in UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu)

Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla (flight) (2860 m) – Phakding (trek)
Scenic flight to Lukla, start trek to Phakding with guide and porters.

Day 04: Phakding (2610 m) – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Trek to the vibrant Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar which is the gateway to the Everest Base Camp.

Day 05: Acclimatization
Spend the first acclimatization day hiking to the Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village (3,790 m) tour.

Day 06: Namche Bazaar – Dole (4038 m)
Trek to Dole through a comfortable trail enjoying beautiful surroundings.

Day 07: Dole – Machermo (4470 m)
Adoring the beautiful views of Khumbu Glacier trek to Machermo.

Day 08: Machermo – Gokyo (4750 m)
Trek to Gokyo admiring the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Day 09: Gokyo – Gokyo Ri (5357 m) – Gokyo return
Ascend Gokyo Ri and get rewarded with stunning views of Ngozumpa Glacier, snowy mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc.

Day 10: Gokyo – Lungden (4380 m) via Renjo La Pass (5360 m)
Ascend Gokyo Ri and get rewarded with stunning views of Ngozumpa Glacier, snowy mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc.

Day 11: Lungden – Thame (3750 m)
Trek to Thame, an authentic Sherpa village that is known for its Sherpa culture and lifestyle.

Day 12: Thame – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Return to Namche which takes about 5-6 hours.

Day 13: Namche Bazaar – Lukla (2860 m)
Return to Lukla takes about 7-8 hours.

Day 14: Lukla – Kathmandu (flight)
Back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 15: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek that provide basic facilities (beds, quilts, and pillows) but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are inside the teahouses except in the higher regions. During the peak season, room sharing must be done. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions. Pay an additional cost for services (Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, and showers). Everest Links is an internet provider and there is Wi-Fi up to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Trekkers can munch on bakery items, continental foods, and coffee in Namche. There are a variety of meals to choose from on the menu. (Nepali Dal-Bhat, steamed mo: mo, hot thukpa, soup, porridge, pancake, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.). Please inform your food menu preference earlier if there is any.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

The transportation during the trek is as scheduled in the itinerary preferred by the travelers which is as follows:

  • Private vehicle transfer to/from the airport in Kathmandu
  • Private vehicle ride to Ramechhap and transfer to/from the airport (only during April, May, October, and November months)
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight

The ideal seasons for Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. There is a high chance of flight cancellation during monsoon and winter. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek three requires compulsory permits i.e. Sagarmatha National Park (SNP), Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000
  • SAARC- NPR 2000

Sagarmatha National Park (SNP)

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000
  • SAARC- NPR 1500

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is a difficult-graded trek with a maximum elevation of 5,360 m. Trekkers should have prior experience in trekking at high altitudes. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails and gaining altitude can be challenging for trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with above-average physical fitness and a positive attitude can complete this trekking. The trek is slightly technical and trekkers have to use fixed ropes, crampons, and an ice ax.

Fitness:

Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek demands trekkers to have top-notch fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is 5,360 m (Renjo La Pass). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

Gokyo via Renjo Pass is a difficult-graded trek. Thus, it requires standard equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

Gear: Ropes, Crampons, Ice Ax, Ice-claw, Harness, Microspikes (optional)

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek (Toilet and bathroom will be outside of the room); Deluxe accommodation for 3 nights in Kathmandu, on a sharing basis with Breakfast
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: All ground transportation in a luxury private vehicle. Domestic flight (Kathmandu/Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap/Kathmandu) as scheduled in the itinerary.
  • Documentation: Trekking permit (Sagarmatha National Park), Khumbu village entry permit, and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if Required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward.
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations
  • Your travel insurance, and International Air Fares
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • Excess baggage charges on the Domestic flight (The airlines allow 15 kg per person if the luggage is more than 15 kilos, approx. USD 1 per kilo will be charged additionally)
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

At present, the group joining dates are not available, but we are happy to create a private trip for you with the flexibility to customize. Simply, let us know your preferences so that our travel experts will assist you in planning a trip to your dream destination.

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive in Kathmandu

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive.

As you enter Nepal via flight the magnificent snow-capped peaks welcome you. You are welcomed by our representative upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Get transferred to the standard hotel along with the representative via a private vehicle upon completing all the formalities. Overnight at the hotel.

Hotel

Day 02 Trek preparation day (Optional: Sightseeing in Kathmandu, UNESCO world heritage sites)

We will do the paperwork, make the permits, and introduce the Guide, at the same time if you wish, you can do the Kathmandu Valley full-day sightseeing (UNESCO World Heritage sites) with private transportation and an English-speaking tour guide at an Extra cost.

Note: (Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu is at an additional cost.)

Hotel Breakfast

Day 03 Kathmandu - Lukla flight- Phakding trek

Elevation: Lukla (2860 m), Phakding (2610 m) 45-minute flight, 3-4 hours trek. Elevation loss: 250 m

Wake up early in the morning because your guide will arrive at your place at 5:30 am and accompany you to the airport. Board the early morning flight at 6:30 am to Lukla. The scenic flight will complete in about 45 minutes and you will land at Lukla Airport. Have breakfast there and start the trek, arriving at Phakding in about 4 hours. This is a fairly plain terrain and is largely inhabited by Sherpas. Continuing onwards, follow upstream Dudh Koshi River and check in at a local lodge where you spend the night.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 04 Phakding - Namche Bazaar

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 830 m

Trek for nearly 6 hours to reach Namche Bazar (3440 m), the famous town in Solukhumbu. The last 3 hours of this trek will be tougher, but the beautiful sceneries on the way will make you forget your tiredness. Overnight in a local teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 05 Acclimatization (Day Hike)

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 350 m

Before you can continue walking further to places at higher altitudes, you need to acclimatize. Namche Bazaar is just the right kind of place to do so because you can do some daytime hiking in and around Khumjung Village, returning to your accommodation before it is too dark.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 06 Namche Bazaar - Dole

Elevation: Dole (4038 m) 6-hour trek. Elevation gain: 598 m

Wake up early, freshen up, and prepare to resume the trek. Today you have to cover a walking distance of nearly 7 hours. The sights of Mt. Ama Dablam and Mt. Thamserku cannot be missed if the weather is fine. You will also walk past some of the settlements of Sherpa people on your way.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 07 Dole – Machermo

Elevation: Machermo (4470 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain:  432 m

Your next stopover lies at a higher altitude of 4470 m and hence you need to make some uphill climbs today. During the 6-hour walk, you will see the beautiful glaciers in the region.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 08 Machermo – Gokyo

Elevation: Gokyo (4750 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation gain: 280 m

Continuing the journey onwards, you should walk for about 4-5 hours to reach Gokyo. Gokyo Lake happens to be one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip and is a place you cannot afford to miss. The lake can also be viewed from the lodge where you will stay for the rest of the day. The weather in this locality remains most of the time.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 09 Gokyo – Gokyo Ri– Gokyo return

Elevation: Gokyo Ri (5357 m), Gokyo (4750 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 607 m

Resume the trek early in the morning and prepare to climb to the top of Gokyo Ri (5357 m), which can be done without any special climbing gear. Spend as much time as you like taking photographs and enjoying the superb views of Mt. Everest as well as the valley below. The massive Ngozumpa Glacier and the whole of the Khumbu Himalayan Range are equally captivating. Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Makalu (8481 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8153 m), and Mt. Gychung Kang (7922 m) are other principal peaks visible from here.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 10 Gokyo – Lungden via Renjo La Pass

Elevation: Lungden (4380 m), Renjo La Pass (5360 m) 7-8 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 610 m/980 m

Your next challenge is Renjo Pass, lying at 5360 m and the path is not that easy. At first, you walk up a gentle and grassy slope but as you proceed, you will face a steeper path mostly covered with loose rocks. The access to the pass is even trickier and steeper. The highest point of the pass reveals a stunning panorama with Taboche, Rolwaling Peak, and more. A small lake called Rermo lies towards the west while Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Gokyo lakes lie in the east. In the evening, tents will be set up where you will spend the night.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 11 Lungden – Thame

Elevation: Thame (3750 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 630 m

Today you will follow the descending trail towards Thame (3750m). After crossing Dudh Pokhari (lake) walk conveniently through meadows towards the Bhote Koshi valley and then continue along the river. You likely catch sight of one or more yak caravans coming down from Tibet and heading to Namche Bazaar.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 12 Thame - Namche Bazaar

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation loss:  310 m

Most of the remaining trek is easy and you can proceed at your own pace, having nothing to worry about. Arrive at Namche Bazaar and spend the night there. You can collect some souvenirs for your loved ones from the curio shops in the vicinity.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 13 Namche Bazaar - Lukla

Elevation: Lukla (2860 m) 7-8 hours trek. Elevation loss: 580 m

Continue along the descending trail and reach Phakding in the daylight, which normally takes about 4 hours. After having lunch at Phakding continue walking to Lukla (4 Hours). Later, you can explore the Sherpa village and observe their simple yet unique lifestyle.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 14 Lukla - Kathmandu (flight)

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 45-minute flight, 30-minute hotel drive.

To conclude your fascinating journey, you will board the early morning domestic flight back to Kathmandu. The guide will transfer you to your hotel in a private car or taxi. You can get some ideas for spending the rest of the day or ask for a departure transfer if you are scheduled to leave Kathmandu on the same day.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 15 Departure

If you are flying back home or to any other destination outside Nepal, we will transfer you to the airport right on time. Even if you are staying longer in Nepal and departing on a later date, do not hesitate to use our complimentary transfer service.

Gokyo via Renjo Pass Trek FAQs

Yes, most travelers need a visa for Nepal, which can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through an online application before arrival.

The highlights of the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek include crossing the challenging Renjo Pass, ascent Gokyo Ri, exploring the stunning Gokyo Valley and its turquoise lakes, witnessing panoramic mountain views, and immersing in the Sherpa culture.

The trek duration of the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is around 11 days.

The typical duration of the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is around 12-14 days, including acclimatization days, exploration of the Gokyo Valley, and crossing the Renjo Pass.

The Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is a challenging trek that requires prior trekking experience and excellent physical fitness. It is not recommended for beginners or those without high-altitude trekking experience.

The best time to undertake the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is during the peak seasons Spring and Autumn to witness awesome views and the weather is also favorable.

The highest point reached during the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek is the summit of Renjo Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5,360 m, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The teahouses and lodges are available along the Gokyo via the Renjo Pass trek route and provide basic accommodation, drinking water, and meals. These teahouses offer a cozy resting place for trekkers amidst the stunning mountain scenery.

Hiring a guide is compulsory for the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek due to the challenging nature of the trek, the need for navigation skills, and the safety considerations in high-altitude environments.

The Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek demands excellent physical fitness, including cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina. Regular exercise, including hiking, is recommended before the trek.

Yes, the itinerary for the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek can be customized according to your preferences and requirements. It is advisable to discuss the options with the trekking agency to create a personalized itinerary.

Helicopter services can be arranged on request during the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek for emergency evacuations or to shorten the trekking duration. However, availability and additional charges may apply.

Essential gear includes strong trekking boots, warm clothing, layers for changing weather conditions, a backpack, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, water purification kits, and a first aid kit.

Although the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek does not take you to the Everest Base Camp, you can still enjoy panoramic views of Mount Everest and other magnificent peaks from various viewpoints along the trek.

Yes, the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek involves trekking at high altitudes, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization, slow ascent, and following the guidance of experienced guides can minimize the risk.

Yes, it is possible to combine the Gokyo via Renjo Pass trek with other treks in the Everest region, such as the Everest Base Camp trek or the Three Passes trek, to create a more extensive and diverse trekking experience.

To book the Gokyo via Renjo Pass Trek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form, or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.