Gokyo Lakes With Renjo Pass Trek - 17 Days

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Trip Facts
  • Duration 14 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate Plus Challenging
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 5,480m/17,979ft
  • Group Size 2-15
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Trip Style Trekking

Trek Overview

The Gokyo Lakes and Renjo la trek takes you to one of the most beautiful and serene spots in the Everest region, offering stunning views of the world's highest peaks. This trek offers an alternative to the more crowded Everest Base Camp Trek, taking you through picturesque villages, lush forests, and tranquil lakes nestled beneath towering mountains like Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu.

Since its introduction to trekkers, the Gokyo valley trek has become popular for its peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds, and breathtaking views, making it an excellent choice for those who want to explore the Everest region without the crowds. Crossing Renjo Pass is one of the most scenic and less-travelled high passes in the Everest region. The ascent is challenging but the reward is one of the finest views in the Himalayas - a sweeping panorama of Everest and many 8000 meters plus peaks along with the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lake far below. Descending towards the remote Lungden Valley, you walk into a more secluded and peaceful part of the Khumbu region, making Gokyo and Renjo la Pass trek an exhilarating and rewarding alternative to the ever popular EBC route.

What is the Gokyo Lake Trek like

The Gokyo Lake Trek begins in Lukla, following a trail through vibrant Sherpa villages and dense forests before arriving at the famous Gokyo Lakes. The journey leads up to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), where trekkers are treated to panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, surely a himalayan vista. You’ll pass through beautiful valleys and glaciers, with highlights including the Ngozumpa Glacier, longest in Nepal, and the serene Gokyo Lakes.

This trek is perfect for trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure in the Khumbu region while avoiding the crowds typically found on the Everest Base Camp route.

Who Can Do The Gokyo Lakes With Renjo Pass Trek

The Gokyo Lakes with Renjo Pass trek is best suited for trekkers with moderate fitness levels and some trekking experience. It requires a reasonable level of physical fitness to trek 5-7 hours a day, sometimes in high-altitude environments. This trek is not suitable for complete beginners, but with proper preparation and a steady pace, it’s manageable for those who are used to hiking and trekking.

If you enjoy trekking at high altitudes and are looking for stunning views of the Everest region, this trek is perfect for you.

Altitude Sickness And Precautions

Altitude sickness is a concern on the Gokyo Valley Trek due to the high altitudes, especially above 3,500 meters. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,357 meters at Gokyo Ri and Renjo Pass 5,360 meters. It’s essential to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and take rest days when necessary to minimize the risk.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
Itinerary
Day-to-day Plan
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Arriving at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the first step of your adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Once you collect your luggage and clear customs, you will be greeted warmly by your Trekking Group Leader or our Office Representative with a "Mystical Nepal Treks" board who will assist you and transfer you to your hotel.

Although Kathmandu is the busiest city in Nepal with hectic traffic, it still holds a unique charm with its local beauty and lively atmosphere. You will enjoy the fun of driving through its unfamiliar roads. The drive to the hotel will take you through Kathmandu’s lively streets, where the old and new come together. You’ll pass by ancient temples, busy markets, and modern shops, all blending into the colorful culture of Nepal.

Highlights:

Airport pickup.
Transfer to the hotel with your Group Leader.
Brief introduction about your trip.
Early arrival gives you a chance to explore Kathmandu.
Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593 feet
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Distance: 6 km
Transport: Airport Pickup

Enjoy your time and relax as you prepare for your trek ahead!

Our Professional City Tour Guide will take you for a half-day city tour to Pashupatinath and Boudhanath—a perfect way to explore Nepal's rich culture and spirituality.

At Pashupatinath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll visit one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, located along the banks of the Bagmati River. This peaceful temple complex is full of spiritual energy, where rituals and ceremonies take place. The beautiful pagoda-style architecture and detailed wood carvings make it truly special.

Next, you’ll explore Boudhanath, a large stupa and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism. Its huge dome and the Buddha’s watchful eyes overlook the busy streets filled with prayer flags, monasteries, and small shops selling religious items. The vibrant and spiritual atmosphere here is unforgettable.

After the city tour, trek briefing and preparation. Your guide will explain the trek itinerary, safety tips, and other important details to make sure you are ready for the adventure. This is also a great time to ask questions or clarify any concerns.

The day ends with a welcome dinner, where you’ll enjoy a mix of traditional Nepali dishes. This is a wonderful time to bond with your team and share excitement for the upcoming trek.

Drive to Manthali in Ramechhap district. The road from Kathmandu to Manthali is a mix of paved and unpaved sections. While some parts are well-maintained, others can be bumpy and rough, especially during the monsoon season. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, with terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages dotting the route. It's an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Nepal. You stay in a basic accommodation.

Route: Lukla - Chheplung - Thado Koshi - Ghat - Phakding

Terrain: Gradual descent, well-paved trail

Scenic 20 minute flight from Manthali to Lukla with stunning Himalayan views.

Walk past Chheplung (2,700m), with Mani walls and prayer wheels. Cross Thado Koshi suspension bridge, offering a view of Kusum Kanguru (6,367m). Trek along the Dudh Koshi River, passing small villages and suspension bridges. Arrive at Phakding, a riverside village with cozy teahouses.Scenic flight with breathtaking mountain views.

Route: Phakding - Monjo (2,835m) - Hillary Suspension Bridge - Namche Bazaar

Terrain: Forested trails, river crossings, steep uphill climb

Pass through Monjo, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. Cross multiple suspension bridges, including the Hillary Suspension Bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. Steep ascent to Namche with the first glimpse of Everest from Top Danda (viewpoint).

Route: Namche - Kyangjuma - Mong La (3,970m) - Phortse Tenga - Dole

Terrain: Mixed forest, open ridges, moderate ascent

Stunning views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega. Mong La Pass (3,970m) – A panoramic viewpoint with teahouses. Descent to Phortse Tenga, followed by an uphill trail to Dole.

Route: Dole - Lhabarma - Luza - Machhermo

Terrain: Gradual ascent through alpine meadows

Walk along the Dudh Koshi Valley, surrounded by snowcapped peaks. Stop at Luza (4,360m), a small village with breathtaking views. Reach Machhermo, where a famous Yeti sighting was reported in 1974.

Route: Machhermo - Phanga - Ngozumpa Glacier - Gokyo

Terrain: Open valley, glacial moraine crossings

Pass Phanga, a site with memorials for climbers lost on Everest. Trek following  the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal. Arrive at Gokyo, a beautiful settlement near Gokyo’s Third Lake (Dudh Pokhari).

Route: Gokyo - Gokyo Ri - Explore lakes

Terrain: Steep climb, rocky trail

Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri for 360° views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse. Explore Gokyo’s sacred lakes, including Fourth (Thonak) and Fifth (Ngozumpa) Lakes.

Route: Gokyo - Renjo La Pass - Lungden

Terrain: Challenging ascent, rocky descent

Renjo La Pass, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Everest region. View of Everest, Makalu, and the Gokyo Valley from the top. Descend towards Lungden, a small village with few lodges.

Route: Lungden - Marulung - Thame

Terrain: Gradual descent through Sherpa villages

Visit Marulung, a peaceful hamlet along the Bhote Koshi River. Thame Monastery, one of the oldest in the Everest region. A quiet, culturally rich trail away from mainstream trekking routes.

Route: Thame - Thamo - Namche Bazaar

Terrain: Gradual descent, forested trail

Pass Thamo, home to a famous Buddhist nunnery. Follow a scenic trail along the Bhote Koshi River.

Arrive in Namche Bazaar, the largest Sherpa town.

Route: Namche - Jorsale - Monjo - Phakding.

Today we start late just soaking in the charm of Namche Bazar. Retracing the same trail, descending is faster, but knees get tired. More oxygen as altitude drops, making it an easier trek.

Begin the steep downhill descent from Namche, passing Chortens and prayer flags. The first major stop is Larja Dovan (2,800m), where the trail crosses the Hillary Suspension Bridge, the highest of the trek. Descend further along the Dudh Koshi River, stop for lunch at Jorsale (2,825m) and enter Sagarmatha National Park's lower zone. After lunch, continue downhill through Benkar and enjoy views of Thamserku (6,608m). Arrive at Phakding (2,610m) in the late afternoon.

Route: Namche - Monjo - Phakding - Lukla

Terrain: Steep descent, suspension bridges, river trails

Last chance to soak in the beauty of the Dudh Koshi Valley. Retrace your steps past Monjo and Phakding.

Celebration dinner in Lukla!

From Lukla airport, your final destination will either be Kathmandu or Manthali Airport, depending on the season. Regardless of the route, we will have an unforgettable flight back.

Flying out of Lukla is a special experience, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. As the small aircraft lifts off, you’re surrounded by a panoramic view of towering peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, all seeming to reach up to the sky.

The rugged landscapes, deep gorges, and remote villages below paint a stunning picture of Nepal's highlands. The excitement of takeoff is matched by the magnificent scenery, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Himalayan beauty.

Flying out of Lukla is not just a journey—it’s a final gift that reminds you of the unparalleled beauty of this region.

Note: During peak season, flights from Lukla are diverted to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap, 132 km away from Kathmandu. If this happens, we will provide private vehicle transport to transfer you to Kathmandu, which will take around 4 to 5 hours.

Highlights:

Morning flight to Kathmandu or Manthali.
Scenic drive to Kathmandu, if flights are diverted to Manthali Airport.
Explore the vibrant capital city of Kathmandu as per your requirements.
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hour: 4 hours (for the drive to Kathmandu, if diverted)
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Mountain Flight

This is the final leg of your incredible adventure—enjoy the journey back and reflect on the amazing trek you’ve completed!

Where will your next adventure take you?

Congratulations on completing an unforgettable trek! As you bid farewell to the breathtaking trails and cherished memories, we wish you a safe journey home. May the mountains call you back for another adventure soon. Until we meet again!

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Cost Details
Includes
  • PERMITS: All essential permits required from the Government and local authorities to legally trek in the region are procured by Mystical Nepal Treks.
  • PICKUP AND DROPS: Roundtrip airport pickup and drop-off facilities for both domestic and international flights are included in the trek package.
  • ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU: Two nights of hotel accommodation in Kathmandu at twin-sharing hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • WELCOME DINNER: A traditional Nepali-style welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Kathmandu. Beverages not included.
  • SIGHTSEEING: A half-day guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's two most sacred UNESCO World Heritage sites with entrance fees paid.
  • TAXES: All applicable local and national government taxes are covered.
  • TRANSPORTATION: Roundtrip PRIVATE VEHICLE transportation between Kathmandu and the Manthali Airport for the flight to Lukla.
  • DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Domestic flights TO and FROM LUKLA.
  • EQUIPMENT: Essential trekking gear such as sleeping bags, fleece liners, down jacket, trekking poles, etc.
  • LODGING: Local Tea-house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis – A single supplement is provided on request OVER MINIMAL COST, however, it depends solely on availability.
  • DRINKING WATER: Properly filtered and boiled water for drinking is provided every evening. Trekkers are advised to carry reusable water bottles, Camel bag that can hold at least 3 liters.
  •  FOOD: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with a cup of hot beverages provided throughout the trek duration.
  • TREK LEADER AND ASSISTANT GUIDE: An experienced trek leader holding legitimate licensing leads the group, along with assistant guides based on group size. Groups of 3 or more are typically assigned at least 1 assistant guide.
  • PORTERS: The porter to trekker ratio is 1:2 - meaning 1 porter for every 2 trekkers. However, for groups larger than 4 trekkers, an additional porter is provided specifically to assist with hot water supply during the trek.
  • STAFF INSURANCE & ALLOWANCES: Insurance coverage, wages, and allowances for all trek staff are included.
  • SAFETY CONCERNS: Emergency equipment including oxygen cylinders and a comprehensive medical kit is available at all times during the trek.
  • COMPLIMENTARY TAKE AWAY: Trekkers receive a duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking map.
Excludes
  • NEPAL VISA: A fee of $50 that is levied on a 30-day Nepali visa.
  • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: The cost of all international flights to and from Nepal.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES: All personal expenses, including Nepalese SIM cards, internet, battery charging, hot showers, laundry, fizzy drinks, alcohol, etc.
  • EMERGENCY: A medical examination of any kind, high-altitude evacuation under any circumstances, air evacuation, and rescues.
  • DONATIONS: Donations of any kind are not included.
  • STAFF TIPPING: Tipping your trekking crew is an expected custom in Nepal.
  • EXTRA NIGHTS: Additional accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure from the trip.
  • SANCTIONS: Permits or authorization letters required for special filming, big drones, or filming cameras.
  • INSURANCE: All-inclusive travel or medical insurance is required and must be arranged by the trekkers.
  • EXTRA PORTER: If requested, an extra porter or assistant is provided, which may incur an additional cost of $25 per day.
  • OPTIONAL TOURS: Optional tours, sightseeing, or any activities during free time are not included.
Essential Information

Terrain And Trail Difficulty

The Gokyo Lake Trek is challenging due to its high altitude, steep terrain, and rugged trails. It takes you to the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, nestled in the Everest region. To reach the lakes, trekkers will face several days of trekking through Sherpa villages, dense forests, and high-altitude landscapes. As you ascend, the terrain, weather, and environment will change, so trekkers need to be prepared for a variety of conditions. While the Gokyo Lakes with Renjo Pass Trek is not as intense as the Everest Base Camp Trek, it still presents its own set of challenges. The trek reaches elevations over 5,000 meters and involves significant ascent through rocky terrain.

Trek distance: On average, the trek covers around 60-70 kilometers. You will trek roughly 5-7 kilometers per day, depending on the itinerary and your pace.

Daily walking hours: You will walk between 5 to 7 hours each day on this trek.

Altitude: The highest point is Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters.

Travel Insurance: A Peace Of Mind In Every Adventure

The Gokyo Lake Trek takes you deep into the Everest region, far from major towns. As walking is the only mode of travel, evacuation via helicopter may be necessary in case of emergencies. Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation is a crucial backup. Make sure your insurance also includes medical coverage and coverage for lost or damaged personal belongings.

Gokyo Lake Trek Permits

You will need the following permits for the Gokyo Lake Trek:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit: USD 30 per person
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: USD 20 per person

Best Time to Do the Gokyo Lake Trek

The best time to trek to Gokyo Lake is from March to May and late September to November. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions. During spring, temperatures range from 24°C to -4°C, and in autumn, they range from 25°C to -6°C. Both seasons offer clear mountain views and ideal trekking conditions.

A Taste Of The Trail: Accommodation & Food 

Accommodation is available in tea houses along the Gokyo Lake Trek. These are basic, with shared rooms and bathrooms. The tea houses also provide meals and services like charging and WiFi, though these may come at an extra cost. Heating is available only in a communal area like dinning hall, you may feel cold in your room.

You can expect to have three meals a day:

Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, Tibetan bread, and tea/coffee.

Lunch/Dinner: Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, curry), noodles, pasta, soups, momo (dumplings), burgers. and fried rice.

Beverages: Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and electrolyte drinks are available.

Drinking water: Boiled water is available throughout the trail at a low cost, and trekkers can use water purification tablets.

FAQs

Definitely! Our airport representative or your group Leader will be there catering you from day of your arrival till departure. Do check for Mystical Nepal Treks clip board on your arrival in Kathmandu airport outside the arrival terminal hall. Make sure you have provided your flight details to us in advance.

Yes, you can obtain Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. In fact for some countries Nepal visa is to be prearranged from their country itself prior to their entry to Nepal. For more details please check Nepal Visa and Entry Procedure in the website

All  our trip itinerary have an arrival and departure day from Kathmandu so you can arrive and leave Kathmandu as per the program. You are also welcome and encouraged to arrive a day earlier or leave Nepal a day later to have a look around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley. Mystical Nepal Treks will help arrange any extra activities as per your interest outside the main package.

14 Days
Price from US$1650US$1700(All-Inclusive Price)
Group Discount Price
2 - 3 Person
US$1640
4 - 7 Person
US$1600
8 - 11 Person
US$1520
12 - 15 Person
US$1480
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