Gokyo & Renjo La Pass Trek – 13 Days
The Gokyo & Renjo La Pass Trek is one of the most scenic and rewarding journeys in Nepal’s Everest region. It follows well-established trails while also venturing into quieter and less-traveled areas allowing trekkers to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas in a more peaceful setting. As the snow melts and the mountain skies clear the landscapes of Gokyo and Renjo La reveal dramatic valleys high passes and shimmering alpine lakes that feel untouched and deeply inspiring.
This trek is ideal for those seeking a high-altitude adventure within a limited timeframe. It combines challenging mountain terrain with some of the most iconic natural highlights of the Solu Khumbu region making it one of the most thrilling trekking routes in the Everest area.
Trek Highlights
- Crossing the spectacular Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)
- Exploring the pristine Gokyo Lakes and the remote Gokyo Valley
- Climbing Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for one of the finest Himalayan viewpoints
- Panoramic views of Mount Everest (8,848 m) Lhotse (8,516 m) Makalu (8,463 m) Cho Oyu (8,201 m) Nuptse Pumori Ama Dablam and Thamserku
- Walking through traditional Sherpa villages and experiencing local culture and hospitality
- Less crowded trails compared to the classic Everest Base Camp route
Route & Itinerary Experience
The journey begins with a guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu offering insight into the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and lively marketplaces. The following morning a short scenic flight takes you to Lukla where the trek officially starts.
The trail follows the Dudh Koshi river valley climbing steadily to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) the commercial and cultural heart of the Khumbu region. A rest and acclimatization day in Namche allows the body to adjust to altitude while exploring nearby viewpoints and Sherpa settlements.
From Namche the route continues north through alpine forests and highland villages such as Dole (4,200 m) and Machhermo (4,470 m) before reaching Gokyo Village (4,750 m). Here trekkers explore the stunning chain of glacial lakes and ascend Gokyo Ri a major highlight of the trek offering unforgettable views across the Everest massif.
The trail then leaves the usual trekking routes and crosses the high Renjo La Pass where sweeping views unfold in every direction. On one side lie the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and on the other the remote Rermo Pokhari basin framed by endless snow-covered peaks. The descent leads through Thame (3,800 m) and back to Namche before returning to Lukla and flying back to Kathmandu.
Accommodation
- Kathmandu: Comfortable 3-star hotels
- During the trek: Local tea houses and lodges
- All accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis
- Single supplement: Available on request at an additional cost of USD 260
- Rooms with attached bathrooms are arranged where possible though some tea houses at higher elevations offer shared facilities
- Single rooms are generally available in Kathmandu and lower trekking regions but limited at higher altitudes
Meals
During the trek all meals are provided:
- Breakfast lunch and dinner each day on the trail
- Meals include authentic Nepali cuisine as well as international options such as Tibetan Continental Italian and Indian dishes
- Kathmandu: Breakfast only
- Welcome and farewell dinners are included
Difficulty Fitness & Acclimatization
The Gokyo & Renjo La Pass Trek is considered moderately challenging.
- Daily walking time averages 5 to 7 hours
- High altitude makes trekking more physically demanding than lower-elevation hikes
- Good overall fitness a positive mindset and steady pacing are essential
- Prior walking jogging or endurance training is strongly recommended
- Previous trekking experience is helpful but no technical climbing skills are required
- Proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to reduce the risk of altitude sickness
Trekkers with medical conditions related to the heart lungs or blood should consult their doctor before joining the trip and inform Conqueri Trek & Expedition Nepal in advance.
Best Seasons to Trek
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies stable weather and excellent mountain views
- Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures blooming landscapes and great visibility
- Winter (December): Fewer crowds and peaceful trails but colder temperatures and snow
- Summer / Monsoon (June to August): Rainy conditions but lush greenery and rich plant life ideal for nature enthusiasts
Departure Options
- Available as fixed departure group treks and private departures
- Custom departure dates can be arranged based on your schedule
- Suitable for couples families small groups and private travelers
- Designed for those who value privacy flexibility and a more personal trekking experience
Why Choose This Trek
The Gokyo & Renjo La Pass Trek offers a rare combination of dramatic mountain scenery cultural depth and quieter trails. It is perfect for trekkers who want to go beyond the usual routes and experience the Everest region in a more intimate and meaningful way. With thoughtful planning proper acclimatization and respect for the mountains this trek delivers a truly memorable Himalayan adventure.
Itinerary
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and Transfer to Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our representatives will welcome you and escort you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. In the afternoon, a pre-trip meeting will be held at the hotel with your trekking guide to review the itinerary and provide necessary information.
Fly to Lukla from Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
Manthali/Ramechhap to Lukla Flight (Peak Season: March, April, May, September, October, November)
During peak trekking seasons, flights to Lukla are operated from Ramechhap/Manthali Airport due to increased air traffic. The airport is approximately a 5 to 6-hour drive from Kathmandu. On this day, you will wake up between 1:00 AM and 3:00 AM and take an escorted shuttle in a shared tourist vehicle to Manthali Airport. From there, you will board a 20-minute flight to Lukla.
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (Non-Peak Season: January, February, June, July, August, December)
During non-peak months, flights to Lukla typically operate from Kathmandu. Flight operations are subject to airline schedules and passenger volume. On this day, you will wake up between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM. Our staff will escort you to the domestic airport terminal, where you will board a 35-minute flight to Lukla.
Helicopter Option
A direct helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is available for an additional USD 550 per person, based on a 5-person sharing basis. This option is particularly convenient during peak season to avoid the long drive to Manthali Airport.
Flights to Tenzing-Hillary Airport usually take place early in the morning. It is recommended to complete all sorting and packing the day before to avoid any rush on Day 2. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will have breakfast while our guide arranges porters. Typically, one porter is assigned for every two clients.
The trek begins by descending toward the Dudh Kosi River and joining the main trail to Namche Bazaar, passing Chaurikharka (2,713 m). The walk is relatively easy, passing through the small village of Ghat (2,550 m) before arriving at Phakding (2,610 m) for the first night on the trail.
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,450 m / 6–7 hours / 10.8 km) from Phakding
The trek continues along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River, crossing its majestic waters several times via suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. Upon entering Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Namche Bazaar, often referred to as the gateway to Everest, is the largest town along the Everest trekking route. It features a variety of restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, money exchange services, internet cafes and bakeries, providing trekkers with essential amenities and a taste of local Sherpa culture.
Namche Bazaar Acclimatization Day – Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m / 2–3 hours round trip)
Today is dedicated to acclimatization to help your body adjust to the high altitude. A short trek from Namche Bazaar takes you to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m), which can be reached in approximately 2 hours. If you take a slight detour to visit the National Park Museum, the hike may extend to about 3 hours. The museum showcases exhibits on the traditional customs and lifestyle of the Sherpa people.
From the Syangboche Airport near the Everest View Hotel, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the Khumbu Himalayas. This location offers stunning sunrise and sunset vistas over the surrounding peaks, providing a perfect opportunity for photography and appreciation of the high Himalayan landscape.
Trek to Dole (4,038 m / 5–6 hours / 13.5 km) from Namche Bazaar
After breakfast, the trek continues along the Everest Base Camp route up to Sanasa, where the trail begins to ascend toward Mongla (4,000 m). Spectacular mountain views accompany trekkers throughout the journey.
The route passes through beautiful rhododendron forests before descending toward Phortse Tenga, followed by a steep climb to reach Dole (4,038 m). The total trekking time from Namche Bazaar is approximately 5 to 6 hours.
Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m / 5–6 hours / 7 km) from Dole
Early in the morning, the trek continues along the sides of a scenic valley, passing through small thorny bushes and scrub juniper. As the altitude increases, you will encounter summer grazing areas where yaks are brought to pasture during warmer months.
Along the trail, trekkers are treated to stunning views of Mount Cho Oyu. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, the day concludes with arrival at Machhermo (4,470 m), where you will stay overnight.
Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m / 5–6 hours / 7 km) from Machhermo
Today’s trek takes you to one of the main highlights of the journey, Gokyo (4,790 m). The trail follows a scenic path to Pangka and then descends slightly to follow a meltwater river flowing along the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier.
The route includes stair-like sections, leading to the first lake, Longponga (4,650 m). Continuing along the valley, you will encounter the second lake, Taujun Lake (4,800 m). After walking further, the trail opens into the picturesque Gokyo Valley, where a cluster of stone houses and walled pastures sits on the shores of the large, serene lake known as Dudh Pokhari.
Trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m / 3.4 km / 2–4 hours) and Return to Gokyo
The trail from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri spans approximately 3.4 kilometers, with an elevation gain of about 600 meters. The hike to the summit typically takes 2 to 4 hours.
Starting early in the morning, trekkers ascend the steep trail to reach the top of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m). From the summit, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Gokyo Valley, the vast Ngozumpa Glacier and a panoramic vista of the Khumbu Himalayas, including towering peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang. After enjoying the summit, the trail descends back to Gokyo for the night.
Trek to Lunden (4,380 m / 6–7 hours / 8 km) from Gokyo via Renjo La Pass (5,360 m)
At the break of dawn, the trek begins with a three-hour ascent to the Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), a remarkable high point in the Everest region. The altitude and surroundings make this pass a truly extraordinary highlight of the trek.
From the summit, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Cholatse, and Taboche. Continuing along the trail, the route descends toward the day’s destination, Lunden (4,380 m), passing numerous snow-capped peaks along the way. The total trekking time for the day is approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,450 m / 4–5 hours / 11 km) from Lunden
After breakfast, the trek resumes, descending toward the village of Thame. Along the way, trekkers are treated to impressive views of surrounding snow-capped peaks.
The distance from Lunden to Namche Bazaar is approximately 11 kilometers, which typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete. This section of the trek primarily involves descending through the high-altitude terrain back toward Namche Bazaar.
Trek to Lukla (2,850 m / 16 km / 6–7 hours) from Namche Bazaar
Today marks the final day of trekking as you return to Lukla, where the journey began. This section offers time to reflect on your trek while enjoying the scenery and exploring the town.
The trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) to Lukla covers approximately 16 kilometers and typically takes 6 to 7 hours. Namche is a popular stopover for trekkers and you will have spent three nights there in total, two nights during the ascent and one night during the descent.
Upon arrival in Lukla, after some rest and refreshment, there will be an opportunity to meet the Nepalese trekking staff for a farewell gathering. This is a chance to express gratitude, share tips and celebrate the conclusion of a memorable trek.
Fly Back to Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap and Drive to Kathmandu from Lukla
Lukla to Manthali Flight (Peak Season: March, April, May, September, October, November)
During peak season, the flight from Lukla to Manthali takes approximately 20 minutes. From Manthali, it is a 5 to 6-hour drive to Kathmandu, subject to highway traffic conditions. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel in a shared tourist vehicle.
Lukla to Kathmandu Flight (Non-Peak Season: January, February, June, July, August, December)
During non-peak months, flights from Lukla to Kathmandu take about 35 minutes. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu via a shared tourist vehicle. Flight operations depend on the airline and are influenced by passenger volume during each month.
Helicopter Option
A direct helicopter transfer from Lukla to Kathmandu is available for an additional USD 550 per person, based on a 5-person sharing basis. This option is recommended to avoid the long drive from Manthali Airport during peak season.
For those wishing to extend their stay in Nepal, optional trips are available to destinations such as Chitwan National Park, famous for wildlife viewing, or Pokhara, known as one of Nepal’s most beautiful cities. Additional trekking extensions can also be arranged upon request.
Transfer to the International Airport for Departure
A representative from Conqueri Trek and Expedition will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, approximately three hours prior to your scheduled flight departure from Nepal.
Includes/Excludes
- Airport transfers between Tribhuvan International Airport / domestic airport and your hotel in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (3–4 star hotels) on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) plan, twin-sharing basis for 2 nights.
- One welcome dinner at a tourist-standard restaurant in Kathmandu with the office staff.
- All necessary permits and fees, including Sagarmatha National Park permit and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fee.
- Insurance coverage for all Nepalese staff involved in the trek.
- Porter service carrying up to 15 kg of personal baggage per trekker.
- Air transportation: Domestic flights between Kathmandu/Ramechhap and Lukla, including return, as per the itinerary.
- Meals during the trek: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with tea or coffee, at lodges or tea houses along the route.
- Accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis at lodges or tea houses.
- Services of a government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.
- Porter support (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) throughout the trek.
- Coverage of all wages, salaries, equipment, food and clothing for Nepalese staff and porters.
- Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square, guided by a professional.
- Comprehensive medical kit available throughout the trek.
- Airfare: International flights to and from Kathmandu.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee: USD 50 for 30 days or USD 150 for 90 days.
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu or in case of early return from the trek or expedition before the scheduled itinerary.
- Extra Nights in Kathmandu: Accommodation for any additional nights due to early arrival, late departure or early return from the trek or expedition
- Insurance: Travel and high-altitude insurance including accident, helicopter medical and emergency evacuation. Mandatory
- Rescue Evacuation: Costs related to medical or emergency evacuation if required including rescue, repatriation, helicopter, medication, medical tests and hospitalization
- Personal Expenses: Telephone, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot showers, laundry and any alcoholic beverages (soft drinks will be provided at base camp)
- Personal Equipment: Clothing, packing items or bags, personal medical kit and personal trekking or climbing gear
- Toiletries: Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste and other personal hygiene items
- Filming Permits: Special filming, camera and drone permit fees
- Internet Service: Not included during the trek
Photo Gallery
