Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek Overview
The Gokyo and Renjo La Pass trek is one of the best trekking experiences, offering a chance to explore diverse landscapes, including pastures, ridges, narrow clefts, and steep climbing trails. Along the way, you’ll witness towering mountain peaks, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Gokyo Ri viewpoint.
From Gokyo Ri, the view of Mount Everest—the highest mountain in the world—and its neighboring peaks like Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu is truly world-class and awe-inspiring.
The Gokyo Valley is home to traditional stone houses, meadows along the shores of the beautiful Dudh Pokhari lake, and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier.
The trek begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. On the second morning, you will take a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to Everest, marking the start of your adventure.
Throughout the trek, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain views, rhododendron forests, and the sound of gushing rivers. These sights make the challenging journey through Gokyo Valley and the Renjo La Pass worthwhile.
The trek takes you through the serene Thame Valley and Renjo La Pass, offering everything you’d hope to experience in the Khumbu region: soaring peaks, lush valleys, rugged landscapes, forests, glaciers, wildlife, and the chance to experience Sherpa hospitality and their rich religious rituals and monasteries.
The Khumbu region is part of the Mahalangur Himalayan range and is home to four of the world’s highest peaks: Mount Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8585m), and Cho Oyu (8201m), along with other significant peaks like Ama Dablam, Kongde, Thame Peak, Thamserku, and Khangtega. You will also view the Ngozumpa Glacier (36km), the largest glacier in Nepal, and witness spectacular panoramic views from Gokyo Ri (5357m). From this vantage point, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, Chola Peak, Machherma Peak, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kusum Kangaru.
Sherpa villages, abundant within the Sagarmatha National Park, are another highlight. Their Buddhist culture is a major draw for trekkers, with the locals’ warm hospitality standing out, even in such a harsh environment. Sherpas are renowned for their strength, local knowledge, and ability to carry heavy loads, which make trekking at high altitudes possible.
The Gokyo Renjo La Pass Trek, organized by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking, takes you to famous landmarks and villages, including Namche Bazaar, Dole, Gokyo, Gokyo Ri, Renjo La Pass, Lungden, and Thame village. The highest points on this trail are Gokyo Ri (5357m) and Renjo La Pass (5345m). At these altitudes, you’ll encounter unique vegetation and wildlife, including musk deer, wild mountain goats, brightly colored pheasants (Lophophorus), snow leopards, mountain hawks, and snow ducks. It’s even rumored that the elusive Yeti inhabits this region.
The 14-day Gokyo Valley via Renjo La Trek with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is a visually spectacular and unforgettable journey.
Renjo La Pass Trek Highlights
Day 1:
Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla Trek to Phakding
Maximum Altitude: (2,850m / 9,350ft)
Trekking duration: (1,400 m)
Day 2:
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Maximum Altitude: (3,440m / 11,285ft)
Trekking duration: 3-5 hours
Day 3:
Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding
Maximum Altitude: (3,440m / 11,285ft)
Trekking duration: Relax and Rest
Day 4:
Acclimatization Day at Namche
Maximum Altitude: (3,440 m / 3,880ft )
Trekking Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 5:
Trek to Tengboche from Namche Bazaar
Maximum Altitude: (3,870m / 12,697ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 6:
Trek to Dingboche from Tengboche
Maximum Altitude: (4,360 m / 14,305ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 7:
Dingboche Acclimatization day Hike to Nangkartsang Peak
Maximum Altitude: (4,360m / 14,305ft)
Trekking Duration: 3 to 4 hours
DAY 8:
Dingboche to Lobuche
Maximum Altitude: (4,940m / 16,208ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 9:
Lobuche to Gorak Shep, visit Everest Base Camp
Maximum Altitude: (5,364m / 17,599ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
DAY 10:
Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche
Maximum Altitude: (5,545m / 18,193ft)
Trekking Duration: 7 to 8 hours
DAY 11:
Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Maximum Altitude: (3,438m / 11,280ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
DAY 12:
Namche Bazaar to Lukla
Maximum Altitude: (2,800m / 9,187ft)
Trekking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
DAY 13:
Fly back to Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap
Maximum Altitude: (1,350m / 4,429ft)
Trekking Duration: 5 to 6 hours
DAY 14:
Final departure
The journey begins early in the morning. During peak trekking seasons (March, April, May, September, October, and November), flights to Lukla from Kathmandu may be rerouted to Manthali Airport. If this occurs, we will wake you up around 12:30 AM at your hotel for a 5-hour drive to Manthali Airport. The flight from Manthali to Lukla takes approximately 20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can bypass the long drive by booking a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which costs around 550 USD, assuming five people share the expense.
During the off-season (December, January, February, June, July, and August), you will fly directly from Kathmandu to Lukla. After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for an exciting 40-minute flight to Lukla’s Tenzing Hillary Airport.
Once in Lukla, we’ll begin our trek to Phakding. Today’s hike will be short and relatively easy, allowing ample time for acclimatization. You’ll also have free time to explore the local monasteries and the charming village of Phakding.
Trek Distance: 6.2 km / 3.8 miles
Flight Hours: 40 minutes (Kathmandu to Lukla) / 20 minutes (Manthali to Lukla)
Highest Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft
Trek Duration: 3 hours
Your trek begins early in the morning as you follow the northern banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, you’ll cross several suspension bridges, including the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. Shortly after, you’ll reach the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint, where your permits will be registered. From there, the trail ascends through dense forests, offering your first view of the majestic Mt. Everest. The journey continues to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant gateway to Everest Base Camp.
Trek Distance: 7.4 km / 4.6 miles
Highest Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,285 ft
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Today is dedicated to acclimatization. Take the time to explore Namche Bazaar, a vibrant hub with Wi-Fi-connected cafes, restaurants, souvenir and gear shops, clubs, and bars. For those who want to venture further, consider hiking to the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center or trekking to the nearby Sherpa villages of Khunde and Khumjung, just an hour away.
Another highlight of the day is a hike to the Everest View Hotel, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Mt. Everest. After soaking in the scenery and exploring, return to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.
The trek from Namche to Tengboche begins with breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail includes a series of challenging ascents and descents, but the stunning vistas make every step worthwhile. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including musk deer, pheasants, and Himalayan tahr.
The journey continues with a descent to the Dudh Koshi River, which you’ll cross before ascending through dense alpine forests. Soon, you’ll arrive at the charming settlement of Phunki Thenga, followed by Deboche, located just a short distance further.
A highlight of the route is the Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. Once in Deboche, you’ll have free time to explore nearby monasteries and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.
Trek Distance: 9.2km / 5.7miles
The journey to Pangboche village takes you along the upper trail, passing numerous chortens, mani walls, and small settlements. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Ama Dablam. The trek becomes more manageable as you enter the peaceful Imja Valley, following the course of the Lobuche River.
The final stretch involves a steep climb to Dingboche, a charming village where fields are enclosed by stone walls to protect crops such as barley, buckwheat, and potatoes from the cold winds. While today’s trek is slightly more demanding due to the higher altitude, the incredible scenery makes it a rewarding experience.
Trek Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
Highest Altitude: 4,360 m / 14,290 ft
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Today is a second acclimatization day in Dingboche, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. Though we take it easy, the day offers a chance for exploration.
You’ll hike up the ridge above Dingboche, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of majestic snow-capped peaks, including Lhotse, the rear face of Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Cho Oyu, and Makalu. The hike also provides stunning vistas of the Himalayan peaks surrounding the Khumbu Khola Valley to the north, creating an unforgettable experience.
The trek to Lobuche is both captivating and rewarding, with breathtaking mountain views throughout the journey. The trail begins with a short uphill climb near a ridge crowned by a shrine, followed by a path through a wide valley.
As we continue, we’ll cross a glacial moraine and pass a small cluster of lodges. The trek gradually ascends, offering ever-improving views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. Along the way, you’ll encounter memorial statues honoring climbers who lost their lives in this challenging terrain, serving as a poignant reminder of the mountain’s power.
Upon reaching Lobuche, you’ll find a relatively large settlement with several hotels and shops, providing a comfortable base for the night.
Trek Distance: 8.5 km / 5.2 miles
Highest Altitude: 4,930 m / 16,175 ft
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Today is the highlight of your journey as you reach Everest Base Camp. The trek begins from Lobuche, and we head toward Everest Base Camp, trekking through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The path leads us to Gorak Shep, a mesmerizing settlement surrounded by stunning mountain peaks.
We leave our luggage at Gorak Shep and continue the final stretch to Everest Base Camp. This is the moment you’ve worked so hard for — standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak. As you take in the incredible views of Everest, memories of your journey and struggles to get here will flood your mind.
This is the closest you’ll ever be to Everest, unless you decide to climb it. With pride in your hearts and a celebratory mood, you can enjoy the views, take plenty of pictures, and relish the achievement. Afterward, we return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Trek Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
Highest Altitude: 5,364 m / 17,598 ft
Trek Duration: 6-8 hours
Today marks the pinnacle of your journey. Kala Patthar, a renowned viewpoint, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks. We’ll start early in the morning, hiking to Kala Patthar to witness the sunrise over Everest and its neighboring mountains.
After soaking in the awe-inspiring views, we’ll return to Gorak Shep for breakfast and a brief rest. From there, we’ll continue our trek through dense forests and meadows, heading toward Pheriche, a charming village. Along the way, you’ll have time to reflect on the unforgettable memories made at both Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Trek Distance: 9.6 km / 6 miles
Highest Altitude: 5,555 m / 18,208 ft
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Today, you’ll trek down hillside trails surrounded by rhododendron trees. In spring, the landscape bursts with color as the rhododendrons bloom. The trail will take you across a bridge over the Imja Khola, leading you into a Juniper forest before arriving at Dingboche.
After a final steep climb, you’ll reach the renowned Tengboche Monastery, where you will stop for the night. This is a perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day’s journey.
Trek Distance: 8.5 km / 5.2 miles
Highest Altitude: 4,250 m / 13,945 ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
The trail to Namche Bazaar meanders through dense forests, home to wildlife such as pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats, and, on rare occasions, snow leopards. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures along the way. As you trek back, take time to capture photos and enjoy the stunning views of Everest’s summit and the rear face of Lhotse.
Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you can head to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Trek Distance: 9.2 km / 5.7 miles
Highest Altitude: 3,855 m / 12,850 ft
Trek Duration: 5 hours
As we begin our return journey, the path descends alongside the Dudh Koshi River. You’ll cross several suspension bridges along the way. After trekking through lush forests and passing small villages, you’ll arrive at Phakding, just beyond Benkar.
Trek Distance: 7.4 km / 4.5 miles
Highest Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,285 ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
This day marks the final stretch of our trek as we descend along the Dudh Koshi Valley. From the Kusum stream, the trail gently ascends toward Lukla. Just before reaching Lukla, the path steepens to the west. After the initial climb, we pass through the small village of Toktok, offering a fresh perspective of the surrounding landscape. Continuing onward, we’ll eventually reach the bustling town of Lukla, where we’ll rest before catching our flight back to Kathmandu the following day.
Trek Distance: 6.2 km / 3.8 miles
Highest Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
At the end of your trek, you’ll fly from Lukla to either Manthali or Kathmandu, depending on the trekking season.
To avoid the long drive from Manthali to Kathmandu, you can opt for a helicopter ride at an additional cost of 550 USD (shared with four passengers).
We hope your flight is relaxing, offering you a chance to reflect on the incredible memories made along the trail. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have the rest of the day free to enjoy at your leisure.
Flight Hours: 40 minutes (Kathmandu to Lukla) / 20 minutes (Manthali to Kathmandu)
Here’s a suggested packing list for your Everest Base Camp trek. Consider this as a starting point, adjusting based on your personal needs and the season. For winter treks, you’ll need additional layers of warm clothing. We’ll provide you with a 75-liter duffel bag for the trek, which you’ll receive during the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag is yours to keep!
We offer complimentary airport-to-hotel transfers for all our trekking clients, both upon arrival and departure. When you land at Kathmandu airport, our representative will be there to greet you, holding a sign with your name for easy identification. As a warm welcome, you’ll receive a garland before being escorted to your hotel in a private vehicle. This service ensures you feel comfortable and supported in a new country, eliminating any concerns about navigation or finding your way.
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, our representative will be there to welcome you. We recommend arriving in Kathmandu no later than 3 PM, at least one day before your trek departure date, to allow sufficient time for preparation. On the day of the trek departure, our representative will pick you up from your hotel and escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your domestic flight to Lukla. The package includes the cost of round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lukla.