The Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek is considered as an alternative trekking route to the traditional Everest Base Camp trek. Likewise, Renjola Pass gives an alternative way to the Gokyo Lake trek making a circuit. This is a less crowded popular adventure trekking available in the Everest region. We spend two nights in Namche Bazaar for better acclimatization.
We will also make some excursions to the surrounding legendary Sherpa villages before heading off to the Gokyo Valley. Breathtaking mountain vistas are complemented by visits to the Sherpa villages, homes and monasteries. One of the highlights of this trek is the Gokyo Lake that lies at the west of Everest Base Camp. The blue Gokyo Lake at this altitude (nearly 5,000 meters) is an awesome gift of nature.
Brief Itinerary:
Day | Route | Altitude | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
01 | Fly Kathmandu to Lukla and trek to Phakding | 2,610m/8,563ft | Fly: 35 minutes Trek: 3-4 hours |
02 | Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 3,446m/11,306ft | Trek: 5-6 hours |
03 | Rest and acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar | 3,446m/11,306ft | Free time |
04 | Trek Namche Bazaar to Dole | 4,200m/13,780ft | Trek: 6-7 hours |
05 | Trek Dole to Machhermo | 4,470m/14,666ft | Trek: 3-4 hours |
06 | Trek Machhermo to Gokyo | 4,790m/15,716ft | Trek: 3-4 hours |
07 | Climb at Gokyo Ri in the morning | 5,360m/17,586ft | Trek: 2-3 hours |
08 | Trek Gokyo to Lumden crossing over Renjo la pass | 5,340m/17,520ft | Trek: 7-8 hours |
09 | Trek Lumden to Thame | 3,820m/12,533ft | Trek: 4-5 hours |
10 | Trek Thame to Namche Bazaar | 3,446m/11,306ft | Trek: 3-4 hours |
11 | Return trek Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 2,840m/9,318ft | Trek: 6-7 hours |
12 | Fly Lukla to Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,430ft | Fly: 35 minutes |
The summit of Gokyo Ri (5,360m/17,586ft) provides an excellent opportunity to see the world’s highest peak, Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,028ft) and the 6th highest peak, Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m/26,907ft) at a closer distance. Therefore, Gokyo Ri refers to as the best view point in the entire Everest Region for more spectacular views than that from the Kalapatthar. Additionally, an excursion to the fourth and fifth lakes would be a bonus attraction for interested trekkers.
Then the trek continues over Renjo la pass and we arrive at Thame, yet another popular Sherpa settlement. Renjo la pass provides a lifetime memory of panoramic views of the Everest Himalayan range. Finally, we end our Gokyo Renjo La Pass trek at Lukla waiting for a scenic flight to Kathmandu in the next morning.
Difficulty Level of Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek
Renjo la pass lies at an elevation of 5,340 meters in the Everest region of Nepal. This pass is considered less difficult than the Chola pass. The trekking route over the pass is wider so that yak caravans can also easily cross the Renjo la pass. However, it owes of its own standard. We have classified this trek as medium-hard. The gradual ascent of the Gokyo Valley makes it painless to cross the pass.
Ascending through Thame makes the trek tougher due to the long uphill walk. It is easier to do the trek as planned through Gokyo first in anti-clock direction. This trek requires walking at least 5-7 hours each day and 8-9 hours during the Renjo la crossing day. You will require a strong determination to complete this trek. It is useful to walk 5-6 hours regularly for few weeks prior to the trip at home.
Best Season for Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek
Like other high passes, Renjo la pass trek is also suitable to do during spring and autumn. The spring season starts from mid of March until mid of June and autumn begins from September to November. Renjo la pass offers the stunning views of Himalayan peaks including the highest Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse and Makalu in a clear sky.
Renjo la pass is not possible to cross in winter due to the snow and ice frozen along the trail. It is very cold in winter and summer season may not be the right time for the best view. Clouds in the sky are the major obstacles for great visibility of the mountains and can cause the cancellation of flights between Kathmandu and Lukla.
Trip Extension
Everest Three Passes Trek – 17 Days is an extension available to more enthusiast trekkers. This trek covers the Renjo La Pass, Chola Pass and Kongma La Pass along with Kalapatthar and Mount Everest Base Camp.
Overview
- The fabulous Renjo la pass (5,340m/17,520ft)
- The Gokyo valley with the blue Gokyo Lake
- The spectacular views from Gokyo Ri
- Magnificent views of Mt. Everest Himalayan range
- Ngozumpa Glacier
- Option of excursion to the fourth and fifth lakes
- Scenic mountain flight to/from Lukla