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Renjola Pass Trek - 12 Days

based on 6 reviews
Trip Facts
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Group Size 2 to 15 Pax.
  • Max. Elevation 5360m / 17585ft.
  • Start/End Lukla / Lukla
  • Best Time Sep to Dec & Mar to May

Highlights

  • Conquer Renjo La Pass: This high-altitude pass at 5360 m offers a thrilling challenge with stunning mountain views.
  • Embark on Gokyo Ri (5360 m): From this peak, you get an unparalleled panorama of the Everest range and Gokyo Lakes.
  • Watch Mt. Everest and other giants. Views: Gaze upon Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam from a unique perspective.
  • Observe Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier: Marvel at the immense Gokyo Lakes system and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.
  • Follow a perfect 12-day itinerary: This well-structured plan guides you from arrival to departure, covering all the key sights.
  • Fly to and from Lukla: Your adventure begins and ends with a scenic and thrilling flight to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport.
  • Acclimatize in Namche Bazaar: You'll spend time in this bustling Sherpa town to adjust to the high altitude.
  • Visit traditional villages like Thame: Explore and experience the unique charm and culture of ancient Sherpa settlements.
  • Trek through scenic valleys: The trail takes you through Thame and Gokyo Valley, each with its own distinct beauty.
  • Experience Sherpa culture: You can immerse yourself in the rich traditions and lifestyle of the local Sherpa people.
  • Spot diverse wildlife: Keep an eye out for wild and domestic animals such as yaks, bears, snow leopards, and various birds.
  • Cross many suspension bridges: The journey includes walking across numerous exciting suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
  • Scenic Walk: You should walk 6/7 hours every day.

Overview of Renjola Pass Trek via Gokyo Lake

The Renjola Pass Trek via Gokyo Lake is a serene beauty and a less crowded alternative route to Everest Base Camp. Standing proudly at 5360 meters, Renjola Pass offers an unmatched panoramic spectacle. Throughout the journey, indulge in breathtaking vistas of towering peaks, many surpassing the 8000-meter mark, such as Mt. Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Makalu (8463 m), and Cho Oyu (8201 m).

Embark on a journey that reveals a tapestry of landscapes, from the vast expanse of Thame Valley to the tranquil Gokyo Valley, adorned with its countless lakes. Immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa lifestyle and cultural tapestry, and encounter the noble yaks that grace your path. Renjola Pass Trek is an adventure like no other, promising an authentic wilderness experience that is truly unparalleled.

The adventure of  Renjola Pass Trek via Gokyo Lake begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a trek to Phakding. The following day's journey takes you to Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Everest region, offering accommodations and trekking necessities. It's an ideal resting point, providing opportunities to either hike to the Everest viewpoint or visit the Khumjung Khunde village, renowned for its hospital, school, and monastery rumored to house a mysterious YETI SKULL. At an altitude of 3440m, Namche aids in acclimatization for further ascents to 3860m. Spend your days exploring the vibrant Namche bazaar, soaking in its lively atmosphere.

Renjola Pass Trekking continues towards the ancient monastery along the Thame and Thamo Valley before arriving at the picturesque town of Lunden, nestled at 4350 meters. The following day marks the pinnacle of the adventure with the thrilling ascent to Renjola Pass at 5360 meters, offering unparalleled vistas of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Gokyo Lakes. 

The next morning, you should ascend to the top of the Gokyo Ri viewpoint at 5360 meters. Which rewards you with breathtaking majestic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, as well as the shimmering lakes and glistening glaciers below. Subsequently, the Renjola Pass Trek goes through Machhermo, Dole, and back to the vibrant Namche Bazaar.

The Renjola Pass Trek journey concludes in Lukla, where you board a flight back to Kathmandu. This tentative 12-day itinerary includes region-specific pricing. Rest assured, the trip is meticulously organized with your safety and enjoyment as top priorities, featuring experienced mountaineering guides and resilient porters to accompany you every step of the way.

Thame Valley

The valley is serene and inviting, with yak shelters and lush pastures throughout. Thame and Thamo boast impressive monasteries—Thame with a male gompa and Thamo with a female gompa. You'll be treated to stunning views of white snow peaks, and this route leads to the Tibet border via Nangpa La Pass. While crossing into Tibet was once easier, now special permits are required.

Renjo La Pass (5360m)

The Renjola Pass trek is a long day of walking, with no teahouses between Lunden and Gokyo Lake. Carry lunch and snacks. The hike to Lunden takes about 4 to 4.5 hours, offering an open viewpoint with views of snowy peaks and Gokyo Lake. Mt. Everest is prominently visible here. After another 2 to 2.5 hours of descent and gradual slopes, you reach a spectacular viewpoint. The trail is well-maintained but has steep sections. Passing through the pass, you'll easily reach Gokyo Valley.

About Gokyo Lakes

Gokyo has many lakes; the third lake is so glorious and tremendous. You are staying overnight beside the lake. Many lodges are well managed. It is made of snow-white mountains and glaciers. The first lake is tiny, the second is quite a bit bigger, and the third is amazing. The fourth and fifth lakes are a bit far from your lodge; each lake is an hour apart. Visit all of them easily.

Gokyo Ri Viewpoint (5360 m)

It is an open and splendid viewpoint in the Everest region trek, and we recommend that you visit early in the morning at sunrise. It takes from your lodge approximately 2 hours, steadily ascending uphill. You will see wow views of white snow and crystal-clear mountains, including Mt. Everest (8848 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Makalu (8463 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), and many more peaks. You will see the huge glacier of Ngozumpa, which is in front of the lakes. Furthermore, you will get to the top, and you will enjoy it so much while you are there.

You will see the stunning view of white snow mountains from the Renjola Pass and Gokyo Ri Top (5360 m/17585 ft.).

  1. Mt. Everest (8848 m / 29029 ft.)
  2. Lhotse (8516 m / 27940 ft.)
  3. Cho Oyu (8201 m / 26907 ft)
  4. Nupse Sar (7861 m/25790 ft)
  5. Peak 38 (7590m / 24902 ft.)
  6. Ama Dablam (6812 m/22350 ft.)
  7. Thamserku is 6608 m / 21680 ft.
  8. Taboche Peak (6495m / 21310ft.)
  9. Cholatse Peak (6640 m / 21785 ft).
  10. Kongde Peak is 6187 m / 20299 ft.

Gokyo Valley

Gokyo Valley, nestled to the left of Mt. Everest, features the vast Ngozumpa Glacier and numerous stunning lakes. Gokyo Ri offers a magnificent panoramic view of white snow peaks. Along the way, you'll encounter charming spots like Machermo, Dole, and Mongla, eventually rejoining Namche Bazaar. It's truly a breathtakingly beautiful valley to explore.

Route of Renjola Pass via Gokyo Lake Trek

The Renjola Pass Trek starts in Kathmandu with a flight to Lukla, then the same day trekking to Phakding, the next day to Namche Bazaar, and a rest day in Namche Bazaar. You should do a day excursion for acclimatization and trek to Lunden. The next day, visit Renjola Pass. Visit Gokyo Lake and Gokyo Ri, then Machhermo, Namche Bazaar, and Lukla, and fly back to Kathmandu. This is a 10-day itinerary, but you need to plan a minimum of 12 to 13 days.

What is the cost of the Renjola Pass Trek?

The Renjola Pass Trek costs $1125 per person, covering all expenses except the hotel in Kathmandu. For the full-board package, including the Kathmandu Hotel, the cost is $1175 per person. Groups must have a minimum of two people; solo travelers may have a slightly higher rate. Feel free.

How About Lifestyle and Culture in the Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek?

The majority of people in the area are Sherpas, each with a unique cultural identity. They dress in traditional attire, speak their native languages, and deeply practice Buddhism. Sherpas adhere to their cultural traditions, evident in the numerous monasteries, tsortens, prayer wheels, prayer flags, stupas, and other Buddhist monuments. Walking clockwise is a practice to seek blessings from the divine in Sherpa beliefs.

    Is there a well-managed lodging and food facility?

    They have built well-managed lodges; there are many lodges in every camp, and they grow some organic vegetables and provide healthy meals and comfortable rooms with warm hospitality.

    How about transportation to get to Lukla?

    Getting to Lukla, the main route is Kathmandu to Lukla by 30-minute flight. Nowadays, below Lukla, it is called Surke, running along a long drive road, but it is more than a 12-hour drive from Kathmandu. There is a local jeep running, and you can take a private jeep as well. 

    They make alternative flight routes from Ramechhap to Lukla and return the same in peak season because they would like to supply so many tourists in the Everest region. If they make a continuous flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, there will be air traffic at Kathmandu Airport because of the same runway for international and domestic aircraft. They can't supply so many people because they need to wait a long time for air traffic. They make a 20-minute flight from Lukla to Ramechhap and a 5- to 6-hour drive to Kathmandu. You should make up your mind likewise. 

    Accept the flight; there is off-road riding. You should catch a local sharing jeep or take a private jeep to get near Lukla. It is a long drive. 

    Do we need entry permits for the Gokyo Renjola Pass trek?

    Yes, of course, you are visiting Sagarmatha National Park. There is a big checkpoint in Monjo village. The Sagarmatha National Park Army and Khumbu Village Municipality should raise it accordingly.

    • Sagarmatha National Park Fee: Rs. 3000 
    • Khumbu Rural Municipality Fee: Rs. 2000/-
    • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System): Nrs. 2000/-
    When is the best time to visit Renjola Pass and Gokyo Trek?

    The ideal times for the Renjola Pass via Gokyo Lakes trek are autumn (October to December) and spring (March to May). During these months, you'll experience clear visibility and pleasant temperatures, perfect for enjoying the crystal-clear views of white snow peaks.

    While it's possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), the frequent rain and clouds can obstruct the views and disrupt your experience.

    Winter (December to February) can also be challenging due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. The pass may be covered in snow and ice, requiring good gear and physical fitness to navigate safely.

    • Autumn season: September, October, and November
    • Spring Season: March, April, and May
    • Monsoon Season: June, July, and August
    • Winter Season: December, January, and February
    Why Book With Us?

    We, Unique Nepal Adventure (UNA), specialize in the best trips and make success and a lifetime unforgettable.

    1. Fast & Friendly Communication: Quick replies on WhatsApp, email, or your preferred platform.
    2. Safety First: Our priorities are safety, comfort, success, and satisfaction.
    3. Expert Guides: Government-certified, friendly, and trained in high-altitude care.
    4. Strong Porters: Reliable, respectful, and committed to your journey.
    5. No Hidden Costs: Transparent pricing, always.
    6. Custom Itineraries: Customizable itineraries according to your requirements and time.
    7. Excellent Service and Delightful Trip: We provide top-notch services and make unforgettable memories.

    Itinerary

    Expand AllCollapse All

    Renjo La Pass Trek: a perfect 12-day itinerary, customizable to your needs.

    A Unique Nepal Adventure representative will welcome you at the airport with a private vehicle and transfer you to your hotel (20-minute drive). After refreshing, the manager will brief you on the itinerary and check your gear, followed by free time.

    • Standard Hotel
    • 20 Minute
    • 1300m / 4265ft.

    An early morning flight from Kathmandu takes you to Lukla, followed by a 3-4 hour trek to Phakding, often reached by lunchtime. This relatively easy, gradual walk passes through charming villages like Chaurikharka, Thado Koshi, and Ghat, offering glimpses of snow-capped mountains. Enjoy your stay at a comfortable lodge in the picturesque village of Phakding.

    • Nice Lodge
    • 4/5 hrs. Walking
    • 2610m / 8563ft.

    Begin your days with a pleasant walk, ideally starting between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. The morning's stroll from Phakding to Monjo Jorsalle is easy. At the Monjo checkpoint, present your Sagarmatha National Park and rural municipality permits before lunching in Jorsalle. After lunch, cross the three Hillary Bridges before a challenging two-hour uphill climb to Namche Bazar, the Khumbu region's capital, where you'll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

    • Nice Hotel
    • 6/7 hrs Walking
    • 3440m / 11287ft

    Today offers a chance to rest or take a day trip. Consider hiking to the Everest View Hotel for stunning views of Everest (8848m), Amadablam, Thamserku, Lhotse, Kongde, and other snow-capped peaks. Alternatively, visit Khumjung and Khunde villages, home to a Tenzing and Hillary Foundation school and hospital, and Khumjung's ancient monastery displaying a supposed Yeti skull.

    Return to Namche Bazar for lunch, a hot shower, and exploration. The town boasts the Mountain Baker Café and various shops selling trekking gear and medical supplies, and providing banking services with ATMs. This second night in Namche Bazar is crucial for acclimatization, significantly aiding your high-altitude trek. It promises to be an enjoyable stay.

    • Nice Hotel
    • 3/4 hrs. Walking
    • 3860m / 12660ft

    The trek to Thame village is a beautiful, relatively gentle walk, passing through the charming village of Thamo and a picturesque nunnery. Arrive in Thame for lunch, followed by a visit to the ancient monastery, a mere 15-minute walk from the village. Enjoy an overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

    • Nice Lodge
    • 4/5 hrs. Walking
    • 3820m / 12533ft.

    Today's trek is a pleasant 5-6 hour walk through mountain and riverside valleys with gentle inclines. Enjoy a smooth walk, stopping for lunch at Marlung village before continuing uphill to the beautiful, open Nangpa Valley village of Lunden. This valley serves as a gateway to Tibet. You'll be staying at a comfortable lodge here.

    • Comfortable Lodge
    • 5/6 hrs. Walking
    • 4370m / 14338ft.

    Today we're tackling the Renjo La High Pass (5360m). The ascent is demanding, with sections of both gradual and very steep climbing. There are no teahouses en route, so a packed lunch and snacks are essential.

    The climb from Lunde to the Renjo La summit involves varied terrain, from easy gradual slopes to extremely steep ascents, all offering stunning mountain views. Expect a 4-5 hour climb, followed by a 2-hour descent to Gokyo Lake, where we'll stay overnight at a comfortable lodge overlooking the lake.

    • Comfortable Lodge
    • 7/8 hrs. Walking
    • 4760m / 15616ft

    Ascend Gokyo Ri (5360m/17585ft) early for stunning views of Mt. Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8436m), Cho Oyu (8201m), and numerous snow-capped peaks, as well as Gokyo lakes and glaciers. After the challenging (2-hour) climb, return to the lodge for breakfast and trek down the moraine valley to Machhermo or Dole (4200m). Enjoy easier breathing on the descent and overnight in a comfortable lodge.

    • Nice Lodge
    • 6/7 hrs. Walking
    • 5360m / 17585ft

    This pleasant hike descends for 1.5 hours to Phunge Thanka, then ascends for another hour to Mong La Top. Enjoy lunch there with stunning views of Mt. Amadablam (6812m), Thamserku (6300m), Kangtenga, Taboche, and the Everest Panorama. Afterward, the trail joins the Everest Base Camp highway in Kyanjoma for an easy walk to Namche Bazar, where you'll stay overnight in a comfortable lodge. Expect 5-6 hours of walking.

    • Nice Hotel
    • 5/6 hrs. Walking
    • 3440m / 11287ft.

    Today marks the final descent, primarily down Namche Hill to the Hillary Bridge, followed by numerous suspension bridge crossings. The trail leads through villages like Jorsalle, Monjo, Benkar, Phakding, Ghat, and Chaurikharka before reaching Lukla. A pleasant lunch stop in Phakding is recommended after roughly 4 hours of walking, followed by another 3 hours to Lukla. Though a long day, the relatively easy terrain makes it enjoyable, passing through charming villages and stunning scenery.

    Tonight, enjoy a final celebratory dinner with your trekking crew in Lukla, their home base. Share your appreciation and offer tips to your guide and porters, perhaps joining them for a last dinner and drinks to create lasting memories.

    • Comfortable Lodge
    • 7 hrs. Walking
    • 2820m / 9253ft

    Your Kathmandu flight is a short 30-minute trip. Your guide will handle all flight details, including time, reporting time, and airline. An early flight allows for Kathmandu Valley exploration. You'll be staying in a comfortable Kathmandu hotel.

    Flights sometimes operate between Ramechhap and Lukla. If your flight is from Ramechhap, you'll need to take a 4-5 hour Jeep or Toyota HiAce ride. We'll inform you if this occurs.

    • Standard Hotel
    • 30 Minutes Flight
    • 1300m / 4265ft.

    Unique Nepal Adventure will provide a private vehicle to drop off at the airport. It takes a 25-minute drive, and you should arrive 3 hours before your flight.

    • Final Departure
    • 25 Minute Drive
    • Back to Home

    Trip Map

    Renjola Pass Trek - 12 Days map

    Cost Details

    What's Included

    • Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle.
    • Two nights in a Kathmandu hotel with breakfast.
    • All meals during the trek (lunch, dinner, and breakfast).
    • Accommodations in comfortable lodges.
    • One English-speaking, government-trained license holder and a well-informed, experienced trekking guide.
    • One porter for two people to carry luggage.
    • All expenses for guides and porters: meals, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, transportation (buses or flights), etc.
    • Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu return flight tickets.
    • Needed permits as mentioned below:
    • Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Fees.
    • TIMS card fees (Trekking Information Management System).
    • Local Government of Khumbu Municipality entry fee.
    • Government and local area taxes, where applicable.
    • Snacks, cookies, and some nuts.
    • Seasonal Fruits such as Apples, Bananas, etc.
    • First-aid kit bag.

    What's Excluded

    • Nepalese entry visa fee You will obtain it at the airport and pay for it directly.
    • Travel insurance. Do the best you can for emergency rescue and medical treatment coverage.
    • Hot and Cold drinks such as tea, Coffee, Coke, Fanta, Mineral water, and any alcoholic drinks such as Beer, rum, whiskey, etc.
    • Snacks: Chocolate, biscuits, desserts, etc.
    • Hot water, a hot shower, a heater charge, a battery charge, phone calls, and laundry service
    • Emergency evacuation and medical equipment.
    • Hire equipment and other personal items (sleeping bag, down jacket, hiking boots, camera, toilet paper, etc.).
    • In the case of natural calamities, i.e., political unrest, cancellation of flights due to weather, landslides, etc., the extra charge will be borne by the travelers themselves.
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Tips for a guide and porters and personal expenses.

    Good to Know

    List of Trekking Gear for Renjo La Pass and Gokyo Lake Trek

    It is recommended to use trekking gear for high-altitude adventure trekking. You should prepare it properly to make your trip successful. If you don’t have something, you can buy or rent it in Kathmandu.

    Head

    • Headlights with extra batteries
    • Sun hat, insulating hat
    • Warm hat, scarf-beanie

    Face

    • Sunscreen and lip balm
    • Sunglass with UV protection
    • Face/body wipes

    Hands

    • Hand sanitizer
    • Light gloves
    • Warm gloves
    • Windproof gloves

    Clothing for Trekking

    • Warm enough Down Jacket
    • Fleece Jacket
    • Trekking T-shirts: Few pairs
    • A couple of trekking pants
    • Long-sleeved shirt
    • Polypropylene underwear’s
    • Under long fleece
    • Breathable underwear
    • Thermal layer
    • Gore-Tex Windproof Jacket
    • Waterproof jacket and trousers

    Clothing for City

    • You can pack any clothes that you prefer to wear in the city.

    Footwear

    • Trekking Boots
    • Sports shoes/Sandals
    • Thin and Thick Woolen socks
    • Trekking socks
    • Gaiters and crampons

    Backpack

    • Duffel bag
    • Daypack
    • Rucksack
    • Rain cover

    Essential Gear

    • 2-liter water bottle
    • Water purification as tablets, drops or stereo pen
    • Trekking pole
    • Swiss knife
    • Warm enough Sleeping bag around -15
    • Watch or Alarm clock
    • Cellphones and charging cables

    Toiletries

    • Quick-dry towel
    • Toothbrush
    • Toothpaste
    • Biodegradable Shampoo and soap
    • Deodorants
    • Female hygiene products
    • Moisturizer
    • Dental floss
    • Nail clippers
    • Small mirror
    • Toilet paper

    Personal Accessories

    • Money
    • Camera
    • Passport, photocopy
    • PP-size Photos

    Extra items

    • Notebook and pen
    • Earplugs
    • Energy/Protein bar
    • First aid kit

    Carry Your Important Medications

    Medicine is crucial, as healthcare facilities are scarce in remote mountain regions. It's vital to carry any medication you need for pre-existing conditions. We provide a basic first-aid kit, but you must bring your specific medications from home or purchase them in Kathmandu before the trek.

    Client Reviews

    Write a review
    • Chris Shank
      Chris ShankCanada,November 08, 2023
      TripAdvisor

      An Excellent Guide for High Altitude Trekking in Nepal

      We did the Three Passes trek with Jay Gurung (Unique Nepal Adventure Treks & Expedition) in October 2023. Overall, it was a great experience. Trip planning was done smoothly over WhatsApp, with Jay always willing to tailor the trip to our needs and expectations. Jay himself is always cheerful and encouraging. He is more than happy to pass on his extensive knowledge of the mountains and of Nepali culture—one can learn a lot from him. I would hope to use Jay as a guide for any of my future Nepal trekking trips.

       

    • Louise & Kim Poole
      Louise & Kim PooleCanada,November 06, 2023
      TripAdvisor

      Khumbu 3 passes trek with Jay

      This was our second trek with Jay, the first was the Annapurna circuit in 2019, and this time we did the Khumbu 3 passes trek, for a total of 20 days and 225km. Jay made all the arrangements for transportation and hotels. He is a very experienced guide who knows the country, the people, and their customs very well. We were well supported on our trip and had a lot of fun with Jay and our porter, Tesman. Jay is full of stories of his treks; he plays a mean game of Wizard and was always there to greet us in the morning with coffee and tea. We would highly recommend Jay for your trekking experience. He is pleasant and thoughtful, and we had a great trip.

       

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