Group Size
Min 1 Max 15
Duration
17 Days
Grade
Geared towards adventurous travelers, these trips require a good level of fitness and may include longer trekking days (6–8 hours), higher altitudes (above 5000m), and more rugged terrain. Some prior trekking experience is recommended. These trips might also involve the use of crampons for high-altitude passes.
Max. Altitude
5,357m/17,575ft
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Meals Included
In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided
Accomodation
Stay in hotels while in the city and in lodges during the trek
Best Season
Mar-May,Sep-Nov
Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek Highlights
- Begin your journey with an exciting flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport, which offers a bird’ s-eye view of the Himalayas.
- Walk through Sagarmtha National Park, a UNESCO heritage site, witness diverse flora and fauna, and cross several suspension bridges.
- Witness stunning views of the towering mountain peaks, glaciers, and valleys.
- Navigate one of the challenging passes, Renjo La, and reach the iconic landmark, Gokyo Ri.
- Explore the scenic village of Gokyo and the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes.
- Get a close-up view of the iconic mountain peaks of the Khumbu Valley, including Mount Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other surrounding peaks.
- Witness the world’s largest glacier, Ngozumpa, flowing from Mount Cho Oyu.
- Capture a mesmerizing close-up view of the sunrise over Mount Everest from Kalapatthar.
Gokyo Lake and Renjo Pass Trek Overview
The Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek is a breathtaking adventure that promises awe-inspiring landscapes, tranquil turquoise lakes, and panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest. This trek is a less crowded alternative to the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek that takes you to the Gokyo Lakes and over the stunning Renjo La Pass, offering spectacular views of Everest and other Himalayan giants.
The Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek perfectly blends adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, offering a more serene and peaceful experience. If you wish to experience trekking in the Everest region while avoiding the busy trails and ensuring you have the best views, cultural experiences, and visits to major attractions, then this trip is perfect for you. Likewise, this trek is ideal for those new to high-altitude trekking but still want to experience the thrill of the Himalayas.
The highlight of the journey is Gokyo Ri (5,340m/17,519 ft) and Renjo Pass (5,360m/17,581ft), which both provide an awe-inspiring panorama of Everest and nearby peaks and the beautiful Gokyo lakes alongside Ngozomba Glacier. From the top of Gokyo Ri and Renjo Pass, you will be treated to panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest (8,848 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), Makalu (8,485 meters), and Cho Oyu (8,188 meters). The sight of these towering giants, set against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, is a sight that will stay with you forever.
Note: For the adventurous looking for a similar trip covering Everest Base Camp, our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek is the ideal option. It continues as a less-than-three-week itinerary to the world’s highest mountain base camp and Cho La Pass.
17 Days Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Our airport representative will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard for Highland Expeditions at the exit of the arrival hall.
Today is just an arrival day, so you can plan to arrive at any time.
Meals:
None
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,455ft
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,455ft
Exploration of Kathmandu and trek preparation
Today, we explore Kathmandu’s highlights on an organized sightseeing tour. Get ready for Kathmandu’s exploration. Our representative will pick you up from your hotel. On the day, you will visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world. After soaking the beauty and cultural heritage of Bouddhanath, you’ll move towards Pashupatinath temple, the most famous Hindu temple in the country. The tour will be around 3- 4 hrs, and later in the late afternoon, there will be a trek briefing at the hotel.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,455ft
Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Depending on your travel month, your flight to Lukla will depart either from Kathmandu or Ramechap Airport. During the high season, flights to Lukla are typically operated from Ramechap, which is 130 km east of Kathmandu, requiring a 4-hour drive. If your flight departs from Ramechap, you must wake up around 2:00 am to begin the drive to Ramechap, and the flight takes only 15 minutes. Once in Lukla, you will immediately be impressed by the towering peaks surrounding the village, giving you a glimpse of what’s to come.
After meeting your crew, you’ll begin your trek up the Dudh Koshi Valley on a well-marked trail, making your way to Phakding for the night. Tentative dates for Ramechap airport operations for Lukla flights are from March 25 to May and from September 20 to November. During other months, flights will depart from Kathmandu Airport.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: 1,250m/4,100ft
Lukla Flight Information: Plane flights in Nepal, especially those to Lukla, are generally dependent on weather conditions. These flights operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), which require clear weather. If the weather is poor, all flights for the day will be canceled. In the event of a flight cancellation, we will try to arrange a helicopter flight, as helicopters can sometimes operate in conditions where planes cannot. However, you will be responsible for the additional costs, which can range from $300 to $500 or more, depending on factors such as the number of people sharing the flight, availability, and demand. This extra amount is after crediting your plane fare. If delays continue for several days and neither a helicopter nor a plane flight is an option, we will make a collective decision on how to proceed. This is particularly important if delays occur before the trek, as the original itinerary may no longer be feasible. Your guide will assist you throughout this process and we expect your understanding and cooperation. Therefore, it is important to include contingency days in Kathmandu after the trek to account for potential delays. If there are no cancellations and flights operate as scheduled, you can use the extra days for sightseeing in and around the Kathmandu Valley
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
9km/5.59miles
Duration:
4 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,800m/9,184ft
O/N Elevation:
2,600m/8,531ft
Trek to Namche Bazar
We will continue our journey along the Dudhkoshi River, which takes us through a pine forest. After crossing suspension bridges at several points and passing through small settlements of Zapute, Toktok, Benkar, and Chumoa, we will reach Monjo. Ahead of Monjo is the entry to the Sagarmatha National Park, which is planned to protect and preserve the fragile mountain environment.
Lowering down from the park and crossing another suspension bridge, we will proceed towards the high Hillary Bridge located at the foot of the hill. Crossing this bridge, we will climb uphill to the Namche Bazaar. We can get a view of Thamserku Mountain. If the weather is clear, we can also view the first glimpse of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the Kusum Khangru mountains.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: 850m/2,788ft
Meals:
BreaKfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
12km/7.5miles
Duration:
7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
O/N Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Acclimatization day at Namche
We remain at Namche for a second night to allow for proper acclimatization to the altitude. Namche is a prosperous village situated in a large, protected hollow. After breakfast, we take a hike up to the Everest View Hotel situated at 3962m/13000ft. Enjoying the amazing scenery of the Khumbu region and Mount Everest, we take another hike towards Khumjung and Kunde village. At Khumjung, we explored numerous monasteries, Khumjung airport, and the school built by Sir Edmund Hillary. We spent some time there and later retraced down to Namche for lunch. After Lunch, you have free time to explore Namche Bazar and learn about the region’s culture.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
5.5km/3.42miles
Duration:
4 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,962m/13,000ft
O/N Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Trek to Dole
Today, it’s a steep climb from Namche Bazaar up to Kyangjuma Village. At Kyangjuma, we can contemplate terrific views of Thamserku, Kantega, and Ama Dablam. The tough part of today is surely going to be the ascent of the Mong La, a very appealing place hanging on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. A medieval historical Chorten stands at the center of the settlement of Mong La. We spend some time at the top of Mong La to look with awe at the surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys while enjoying lunch.
The most eye-catching feature of the trail today is the wealth of plant and animal vegetation, including wildflowers and Rhododendrons that we see on the way. We may even spot wildlife like pheasants, mountain goats, and the subtle musk deer. Continuing our hike through forests, some waterfalls, and bridges, we reach Dole, a small village with few teahouses.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
12km/7.8miles
Duration:
7 hrs
Max Elevation:
4200m/13,776ft
O/N Elevation:
4200m/13,776ft
Trek to Machermo
Today, it’s another short day, starting with a climb out of the small Dole Valley before ascending more gradually up the Dudh Kosi Valley, high above the river. The walking is easy, but we will still feel the effects of altitude on even the smallest hillock. The barren alpine scenery, with only small clusters of scrub juniper, contrasts with the snowy white peaks and deep blue skies. After two hours, we will arrive at Luza (4360m), and after a further hour’s walk, we will reach our lodge at Machhermo (4465m), where you will spend the evening.
After lunch, an option is to take an excursion across rocky moraines to the base of Kyajo Ri (6168m) and Machhermo Peak (6073m). However, keep an eye open for the Yeti! In 1974, three yaks were killed, and a Sherpa girl was injured when trying to fight off a hairy, ape-like intruder that could have been a hungry grizzly bear!
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
5.5km/3.41miles
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,470m/14,655ft
O/N Elevation:
4,470m/14,655ft
Acclimatization day at Machermo
We are approaching an altitude of 4500m, so we stayed an extra day at Machhermo to acclimatize by getting our bodies used to the thin air as we climbed up. There are plenty of outlets for exploration around the camp, and just above the village, there is a gracious vista that encircles Cho Oyu at [8210m] and the mountains that flank the Ngozumpa Glacier.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
3-4 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,470m/14,655ft
O/N Elevation:
4,800m/15,745ft
Trek to Gokyo
After breakfast, we climb through a crest, Chorten, from where we enjoy master views of the valley below and Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and the northern part of Cho-Oyu at (8153m). Beyond the ridge, the valley opens out as the trail passes through a Chorten and reaches Phangka at (4480m) after a brief soft hike. Phangka is an area where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people. We descend to the river bank before climbing up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. It is a steep climb on the moraine.
After crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, Longpongo at 4690m, where we get to see the Lama footprints on a stone. As we see the sights of the second lake, Taboche Tsho, we watch in awe the glimmering turquoise blue mass of water dazzling in the sunshine. Just ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, which is connected by a heaving stream. Gokyo village is neatly placed by the third lake, and Cho-Oyu Mountains stand tall in the backdrops, setting off stunning scenery, an ideal spot for our video cameras to go on overdrive at this awesome area.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
7km/4.35miles
Duration:
5 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,790m/15,712ft
O/N Elevation:
4,790m/15,712ft
Hike to Gokyo Ri and stay at Gokyo
Today will be the highlight of our trip. We will hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) early in the morning to catch the spectacular sunrise over Everest and the surrounding peaks. It takes 2-3 hours to reach the summit of Gokyo Ri from Gokyo valley. Reaching the summit awes trekkers and is worth every tough section they pass through. Witnessing the rising sun’s rays over the Himalayan peak offers trekkers a surreal experience. Gokyo Ri offers magnificent views of the Everest region’s 8,000m peak, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Likewise, the summit offers stunning views of the turquoise lake of Gokyo and Ngozumpa Glacier. After enjoying the view from the Ri, we retraced back to our hotel in Gokyo before exploring other highlights of Gokyo.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
3.35km/2.08miles
Duration:
4 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,357m/17,575ft
O/N Elevation:
4,790m/15,712ft
Cross Renjo Pass and trek to Lungden
Renjo Pass, standing at 5,360 meters, is one of the trek’s most challenging and rewarding parts. The steep climb requires an early start from Gokyo, as there’s a lot of ground to cover, with the total duration taking 8-10 hours. As you ascend to the top of Renjo La Pass, Everest and Lhotse dominate the view, while Kantega and Makalu add to the awe. The Renjo La offers one of the most breathtaking perspectives of Everest. The descent from the pass takes you to the peaceful village of Lungden, nestled at 4,368 meters
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
12.8km/8miles
Duration:
8-9 hrs
Max Elevation:
5,360m/17,581ft
O/N Elevation:
4,368m/14,327ft
Trek to Thame
The trail from Lungden to Thame is a gentle descent, passing through traditional Sherpa villages and ancient monasteries. At an altitude of 3,820 meters, Thame is one of the oldest Sherpa settlements in the region. Explore the village and visit the Thame Monastery, a mountain spiritual haven.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
7.5km/4.6miles
Duration:
5 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,820m/12,530ft
O/N Elevation:
3,820m/12,530ft
Trek to Namche Bazar
We continue along the same trail to Namche Bazar, passing through pasture land and remote territory with splendid views. This downhill section offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kongde Ri, Thamserku, and Kusum Kangaru. We cross several suspension bridges over the Bhote Koshi River while enjoying the view of lush rhododendron forests, and we reach Namche Bazaar. Along the way, you’ll visit the Thamo monastery in the village of Thamo.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
6.5km/4miles
Duration:
4 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
O/N Elevation:
3,450m/11,319ft
Trek to Lukla
Our last day of the trek follows the Dudh Kosi River down to Lukla. After our steep descent from Namche, we gradually walk along the Dudhkhosi river. We’ll have lunch on our way and make the final climb up to the airstrip at Lukla. The rest of the day is free, and you can relax under the warm sun & reflect on the emotional experiences we had while hiking through these massive mountains that have probably helped us re-discover ourselves in ways we least expected. This is our final day in these fantastic mountains. Later, we celebrate our successful trek completion with our Sherpa guides and porters, whom we’ve gotten to know so well & are now good friends. It’s a pleasure to end this wonderful trip on a happy note. We then slumber into blissful sleep.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Distance:
21km/13miles
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,800m/9187ft
O/N Elevation:
2,800m/9187ft
Fly back to Ramechap & drive to Kathmandu
We’ll wake up early, have breakfast, and prepare for our aircraft’s arrival at Ramechap Airport. Upon landing at Ramechap, you will be transferred for a 5-hour drive back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore at your leisure.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Free day in Kathmandu
The sixteenth day is your free day in Kathmandu. On this day, you can rest, explore, and shop. No activities are scheduled for today, as it’s your free day. Likewise, the day also serves as a contingency day in case of any flight delays. Additionally, if you want to include any activities for the day, feel free to let us know. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
O/N Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International departure
It is the final day of your journey, and it’s really hard to say goodbye. If you have more vacation time, let us know, and we’ll arrange another trip that fits your preferences and time. If not, we must say goodbye. Please let us know your flight time so that we can pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at the airport for your flight. We hope to see you again. Safe journey.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
None
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
O/N Elevation:
N/A
Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your guide/leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek guide/leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
DATES
PRICE
DEPOSIT
AVAILABILITY
17 Days
4 Apr, 2025 - 20 Apr, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
18 Apr, 2025 - 4 May, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
2 May, 2025 - 18 May, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
26 Sep, 2025 - 12 Oct, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
3 Oct, 2025 - 19 Oct, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
17 Oct, 2025 - 2 Nov, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
1 Nov, 2025 - 17 Nov, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
17 Days
14 Nov, 2025 - 30 Nov, 2025
USD 1,899
20% Deposit
USD 379.80
12 in a group
Available
Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.
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Cost Inclusion
- All meals (B, L, D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on a trek with tea & coffee.
- Twin-sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 4 nights with breakfast.
- All required permits for the trek (TIMS Card and Everest National Park ).
- Accommodation at clean and cozy teahouses/lodges on trek.
- Internal flights (KTM-LUA-KTM).
- Experienced local trek leader with a 1:4 assistant guide-to-client ratio.
- Full support crew with one porter for every two trekkers.
- Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts.
- Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicines and supplementary oxygen system.
- Satellite phone for emergency purposes and a nominal charge for personal use.
- Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner, and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of the trek).
- Staff insurance and allowances.
- Trek completion certificate (Upon request).
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare, Visa, and travel insurance.
- Meals at Kathmandu.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on a trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities for staff.
FAQs About Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek
How long does the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek take to complete?
How does the Renjo La Pass compare to other passes in the Everest region?
What is the route to Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek?Â
Can the trek be customized to include the Everest Base Camp?
Is there an option to return via helicopter from Gokyo?
What kind of weather can I expect during the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass trek?Â
How likely is snowfall during the trek?
Are vegetarian and Vegan meal options available during the Gokyo Lakes trek?Â
Can children or elderly trekkers do this trek?Â
Do I need travel insurance for the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass trek?Â
Details on Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass
Gokyo Lakes
Located at an elevation of 4,700–5,000 m (15,400–16,400 ft), Gokyo Lakes is one of the prominent landmarks of the Everest region. It is one of the highest freshwater lake systems, with six lakes, and it was named after the Gokyo Ri. The lakes lie in the Khumjung Village Development Committee within the Sagarmatha National Park and have also been designated a Ramsar site. The Gokyo Lakes have a surface area of 196.2 ha (485 acres). Each lake of Gokyo is surrounded by towering peaks, adding to the beauty of the lakes. Moreover, Gokyo Cho, also called Dudh Pokhari, is the main lake, which is more famous and has an area of 42.9 ha (106 acres).
Renjo La Pass
Renjo La Pass, at 5,360m/ 17,585ft, is one of the three high passes in the Everest region. It lies in the westernmost of Nepal’s Three Passes within the Sagarmatha National Park. Likewise, the pass connects the Gokyo Lakes area to the western valley. On the journey to Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass, the pass is one of the challenging sections featuring high elevation, steep and rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather. In addition, Renjo la Pass offers views of the Everest massif, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks.
Views of Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass
The Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass Trek is a stunning journey that offers trekkers the majesty of the Khumbu region. From the start to the end of the journey, trekkers will be amazed by the exceptional views, with each step showcasing the region’s diverse landscape and beauty. One of the key views of the trek is Gokyo Lake, a set of six turquoise lakes surrounded by towering peaks. Likewise, the view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and other surrounding peaks accompanies the trekkers all along the trek.
Furthermore, it offers a view of the mixed terrain of the Sagarmatha National Park, from glaciers to valleys and forests. Excluding the beauty of nature, the trek presents chances to witness the Sherpa culture, tradition, and religious hub. In addition, Gokyo Ri and Renjo La Pass are two prominent landmarks along the trek, offering stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and other nature’s majesty.Â
Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization
The Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek involves a significant risk of altitude sickness, especially if proper acclimatization is not followed. As the trek begins from an elevation above 3,000m and reaches above 5,000m, the risk of altitude sickness is high throughout the trek, requiring a proper acclimatization plan. Thus, Highland Expedition’s package ensures an appropriate itinerary with an acclimatization plan to keep trekkers safe and away from the risks related to altitude sickness. Â
The trip package involves acclimatization at key locations, including Namche Bazaar (3,440m), Machermo (4,470m), and Gokyo Village (4,750m). The acclimatization days are not only about resting and sleeping; instead, they follow the rule of “climb high, sleep low,” which means trekkers hike to higher elevations as a day hike and sleep at the lower elevation. This helps trekkers get used to higher altitudes and temperatures while acclimating at high elevations.
Training for the Renjo La Pass Trekking
As Renjo La Pass is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal’s Himalayas, trekkers should train properly to navigate the section on the journey to Gokyo Lakes with Renjo Pass. Thus, trekkers planning the trek should prepare themselves with cardiovascular training, flexibility, mobility training, and strength training 2-3 months before the trek.
Cardiovascular Training
- Start practicing hiking on rugged trails with a backpack.
- Involve running and jogging 3-5 times a week to improve stamina.
- Cycling is best for endurance and leg strength.
- To be prepared for steep ascents, practice stair climbing.
Strength Training
- Focus on leg exercises by including squats, lunges, calf raises, and step-ups.
- Focus on core workouts like planks, sit-ups, and Russian twists that help stability.
- Focus on push-ups and shoulder presses for upper body strength.
Flexibility and Mobility Training
- Involve in yoga as it enhances balance and helps control breathing.
- Practice stretching by focusing on the legs, hips, and back.
Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek Cost
The Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek costs USD 1,899 per person. This covers most of the expenses required for the trek, including accommodation, meals, permits, domestic flight, trekking guide, all ground transportation, and some refundable gear. However, if the Trekker prefers luxurious or add-on services, the trip cost increases.
The cost of the Gokyo Lake and Renjo Pass Trek is dynamic and changes due to various factors. Group size is the foremost aspect that changes the trip’s price, as Highland Expedition offers exclusive group sizes for trekkers with larger groups. Similarly, the chosen mode of accommodation, customization of the trip, level of preferred luxury, trekking season, whether to hire a porter, and any special requirement impact the overall cost of the trek.
Permits for Gokyo Lakes and Renjo La Pass
The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit are necessary to trek to Gokyo Lake and Renjo La Pass. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) have implemented the permits, so obtaining them is necessary.
Sagaramtha National Park permit
Trekkers can obtain a Sagaramtha National Park permit from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Monjo. The permit costs NPR 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1500 for SAARC citizens. It is necessary to support the park’s conservation and maintenance and monitor trekkers throughout the area.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
The Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit is a newly introduced one to replace the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. It is available at the Monjo checkpost and in Lukla and costs NPR 2000 for everyone for the first four weeks, then NPR 2,500 per person after four weeks. The permit is necessary because it helps manage local tourism and supports infrastructure development in the Khumbu region.
Best Time for Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek
Spring and Autumn are the two best times for the trek to Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass. From March to May, spring comes after the coldest season and before the monsoon season. Winter and Autumn, from September to November, come after the monsoon season and before winter. The seasons are best for the trek due to the ideal trekking conditions they provide. Likewise, the weather and temperature are pleasant and stable during spring, ranging from –10°C to 15°C, and Autumn, ranging from -12°C to 15°C, making them the best for trekking.
Challenges of the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek
The trek to Gokyo Lakes via Renjo Pass is undoubtedly a breathtaking journey in the Everest region. However, the trek isn’t without challenges, adding to the thrill and difficulty of the trip. The major challenge of the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek is the high altitude, which poses the risk of altitude sickness. The trek reaches up to an elevation of 5,360m/ 17,585ft, with a high risk of acute mountain sickness.
The harsh weather of the Himalayas, with cold temperatures dropping below freezing at nighttime, adds to the challenge of the trek. Similarly, the sudden change in weather from strong winds to fog to sudden snowfall makes the trek more difficult. The steep and challenging terrain with loose rocks is another factor that makes the trek challenging. Moreover, crossing Renjo la Pass, Limited accommodation, long trekking destination, and potential ice formations section are other challenges of the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek.
Tips to Overcome Those Challenges
- Acclimatize properly and ascend slowly throughout the trip.
- Check the weather forecast regularly before starting the day’s trip. Be prepared to stay in a basic teahouse with limited accommodation and food choices.
- Train well for 2-3 months before the actual journey with cardio strength training and hiking practices.
- Stay hydrated and eat a proper, balanced diet throughout the trip.
- Wear appropriate gear, from warm layers to good trekking boots.
- Carry medication (diamox) that helps to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Listen to your body and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
- Choose the right trekking season to avoid facing harsh weather.
- Book tea houses in advance if you are traveling in peak seasons.
- Carry snacks and energy bars for extra energy during the trek.
- Follow a slow and steady pace instead of rushing on the ascent.
- Carry a first aid box with the necessary items.
Essential Checklist for Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek
Packing appropriate gear and equipment while trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas, including for the Gokyo Lake and Renjo Pass trek, is crucial. The right packing of gears ensures a smooth and successful journey. As the weather of the Himalayas changes frequently, trekkers should pack the gear and equipment that fits every weather. Here is the list of essential gear that trekkers should pack for the Gokyo Lakes and Renjo Pass Trek:
Head Wear
- Sunhat
- Warm ha
- Buffs
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Headlamp
Handwear
- Softshell gloves
- Heavyweight gloves
Upper Body
- Thermal or fleece base layer top
- Trekking shirts (Short and full Sleeve)
- Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket
- Light down jacket
- Hard-shell jacket with a hood
- Insulated Down Jacket (provided by us at request)
Lower body
- Thermal or fleece base layer bottom
- Trekking trousers/pants
- Warm trekking trousers
- Hardshell pants (waterproof)
- Insulated down pants (optional)
Footwear
- Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Hiking socks (synthetic and wool)
- Liner socks
- Camp shoes to wear at the teahouse
- Yaktrax / Microspikes (optional)
Gears / Personal equipment
- Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover
- Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by us at request)
- Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by us at request)
- One-litre capacity water bottle (Nalgene & Thermos)
- Trekking poles
- Camera with charger
- Personal snacks and energy bars
- Laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes (optional)
- Padlock (Optional)
- Ear plugs
- Rain Poncho
- Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
Toiletries and hygiene
- Quick-drying towel
- Small face towel
- Toothbrush &Toothpaste
- Face mask
- Water treatment tools or tablets (Recommended: Aquatabs)
- Deodorants, Soap, and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
- Face and body moisturizer
- Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip Balm SPF 30+
- Hand sanitizer/Antiseptic wipes
- Hygiene products
- Basic first aid kit
Documents
- Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
- Credit cards for emergencies
- Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
- Travel Insurance
- Flight tickets
Read more:Â Equipment list for trekking in Nepal
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Reviews
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Gokyo 2024
Gokyo 2024
We had a wonderful experience trekking in Nepal with Highland Expeditions!
Pre-travel, the owner Passang was very professional and answered all of our questions in a very timely fashion. He helped us customize our trip, and we ended up with a great itinerary.
From the moment we arrived at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, until the moment we were dropped off at the airport at the end of our trip, we were taken care of in every way, from transportation to meals, drinks and tea house stays. Highland Expeditions demonstrated they were knowledgeable, very experienced, and had the resources to manage any issues that might occur. When issues did come up with transportation delays or delays due to illness, they were able to navigate us through all of it seamlessly. Their collective ability to respond quickly in the moment and take care of us when unexpected events happened was truly comforting and reassuring. We really felt like we could trust our guide, Pasang, and the Highland Expeditions team with our lives. They took care of us at every turn with kindness and expertise!
All the accommodations were really comfortable, even given the remote nature of some of the villages. And everyone at the tea houses was very friendly and accommodating, highlighting a good partnership with Highland Expeditions. Highland also made sure that we had all the necessary gear for a safe and comfortable trip.
We highly recommend Highland Expeditions, and would definitely use them again in our future treks!!! Thank you Highland for a wonderfully memorable trip to Kathmandu and the Himalayas!!!
-Noriko and Corbin, Salt Lake City, 2024
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