Gokyo Lake and Renjo La Pass Trek - 15 Days

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Trip Facts
  • Country Nepal
  • Trip Grade Hard/Challenging
  • Duration 15 Days
  • Maximum Altitude 5,360 m (Gokyo Ri Viewpoint)
  • Group Size 1-19
  • Starts Lukla
  • Ends Lukla
  • Activities Trekking, Flight and City Tour
  • Best Time Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

The Gokyo Lake Trek is perhaps the most enchanting adventure in the Everest region with a combination of Himalayan grandeur, serene turquoise lakes, and sheer high passes. Unlike the more popular Everest Base Camp route, this trek goes by a less trodden route through the serene Gokyo Valley and thus is a perfect alternative for those seeking remoteness and panoramic mountain scenery. The highlight of the trek is the line of pristine Gokyo Lakes, shining at high altitude, which are of great spiritual and natural significance. Trekkers are rewarded with one of the finest panoramic views in the entire Everest region from the summit of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), with Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu and the huge Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in Nepal.

The trek also challenges and blesses the adventurers by passing over Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), a thrilling high-mountain pass with spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains. The trekkers pass through Sherpa villages of Namche, Dole, and Machhermo and enjoy the unique culture, hospitality, and lifestyle of the people of the highlands. With a properly planned acclimatization schedule and combination of nature, adventure, and culture, the Gokyo Lake Trek is a journey that goes beyond the ordinary, combining physical effort with spiritual and visual satisfaction.

Highlights of Gokyo Lake Trek

  • City Tour to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swyambhunath, and Patan Durbar Square.
  • Picturesque and thrilling mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to Everest.
  • Hiking in Sagarmatha National Park, where one encounters varied flora, fauna, and unique alpine forests.
  • Acclimatization and exploration in Namche Bazaar, Sherpa capital of the Khumbu valley.
  • Visit to the pristine chain of blue Gokyo Lakes, which possess religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike.
  • Ascending up to the renowned Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,357 m) for spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.
  • Crossing over the exciting Renjo La Pass (5,360 m), one of the vintage high passes in the Everest range.
  • Sherpa cultural encounter with the option of visiting monasteries and villages.
  • Farewell cultural dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the culmination of the trek.

Best Time to Visit Gokyo Lake Trek

The optimal time of the year for the Gokyo Lake Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The seasons offer stable weather, clear blue skies, and warm temperatures for trekking the high Himalayas.

Spring (March to May) is arguably the most beautiful time of the year to try this trek. The paths are lined with rhododendrons, and alpine flowers in bloom as a stunning contrast against the white-tipped heights of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu. The days are warm enough for trekking, but evenings are tolerably cold. Visibility is clear, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Autumn, September to November, is the most crowded time, with crisp air and sparkling mountain scenery. The monsoon rains would have cleaned out the fumes and dust, leaving lush landscapes and starry skies. It is also the period of significant Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural interactions during the journey.

Even though December to February is challenging with below-freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall at high passes like Renjo La, adventurous trekkers seeking solitude can attempt it with the proper gear and planning. Summer/monsoon (June to August) is generally not preferred due to sheer rain, slippery trails, and countless flight cancellations to and from Lukla.

Gokyo Lake and Renjo La Pass Trek - 15 Days Itinerary

Day 01Arrive in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel

You will be picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and taken to your hotel on arrival. Take it easy and freshen up after your flight. There will be an extensive pre-trek briefing in the evening by your trekking guide, covering the itinerary, safety tips, equipment needed, and Nepalese culture. This will get you well prepared for the challenging Himalayan trekking experience. Overnight at Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude:1,350 m
  • Accommodation:3 Star Accommodation
  • Mode of Transportation:Private Vehicle

Day 02Kathmandu City Tour

Experience the overall culture of Kathmandu. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square. Learn about the rich history of Nepal, spirituality, and architecture. Overnight at Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude:1,350 m
  • Accommodation:3 star accommodation
  • Duration:Full Day
  • Mode of Transportation:Private Vehicle

Day 03Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding Village (2,610 m, 3–4 hrs)

Fly early in the morning to Lukla (2,840 m), one of the world's most stunning airports. Begin trekking on the Dudh Koshi River, along pine and rhododendron forests, small suspension bridges, and isolated Sherpa villages. Arrive at Phakding Village (2,610 m), a peaceful village with your first taste of Himalayan trekking. Overnight at a tea house.

  • Max Altitude:2,610 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:30 mins flight and 3-4 hours hike

Day 04Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m, 5–6 hrs)

Hike in Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area. Cross the classic suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers. Reach Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the colorful Sherpa capital. Absorb dramatic views of Thamserku (6,623 m) and Kusum Kanguru (6,367 m) while you check into your lodge. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.

  • Max Altitude:3,440 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours

Day 05Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

Acclimatization is the best defense against altitude sickness. Walk to Khumjung or Syangboche, visit monasteries, and bask in the panoramic view of Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), and Ama Dablam (6,812 m). Have a taste of the Sherpa culture and experience village life. Spend the night at Namche Bazaar.

  • Max Altitude:3,440 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:Full Day

Day 06Trek to Dole Village (4,030 m, 5–6 hrs)

Continue the hike up to the forest trails and open ridges. Stream crossings and villages along the way have stunning views of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Arrive at Dole Village (4,030 m), a serene alpine village with stunning views of surrounding peaks and serene tea houses. Overnight at Dole.

  • Max Altitude:4,030 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours

Day 07Trek to Machhermo Village (4,470 m, 4–5 hrs)

The trail gradually rises up rocky ridges and alpine grasslands. Pass yak grazing lands and small stone villages. Arrive in Machhermo (4,470 m), with its magnificent scenery of mountains such as Cho Oyu (8,188 m) and other higher Himalayas. Acclimatize to higher altitudes for the subsequent days. Stay overnight in a lodge.

  • Max Altitude:4,470 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours

Day 08Trek to Gokyo Lake (4,790 m, 5–6 hrs)

Ascend the Ngozumpa Glacier, trekking over the ridges and scattered alpine vegetation. Reach the holy turquoise glacial lakes of Gokyo Lakes (4,790 m). The area is renowned for serene beauty and wide mountain views. Camp near the lakes and absorb the peaceful atmosphere and mirror reflection of peaks on water.

  • Max Altitude:4,790 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours

Day 09Gokyo Ri Viewpoint Trek and Back to Gokyo Lake (5,357 m, 4–5 hrs)

Begin early with a steep ascent to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), the top viewpoint in the region. From here, shoot 360° panoramic photos of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the long Ngozumpa Glacier. Photograph breathtaking sunrise or morning light on surrounding mountains. Descend to Gokyo Lake (4,790 m) in the evening along serene lakes reflecting the tall peaks.

  • Max Altitude:5,357 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours

Day 10Hike to Lungde from Renjo La Pass (5,360 m, 6–7 hrs)

Cross the challenging but fulfilling part of the trek over Renjo La Pass (5,360 m). Take in panoramic mountain vistas, white-crowned summits, and the grandeur of the Ngozumpa Glacier below. Descend to remote Lungde Village, a typical Sherpa village, for a glimpse of Sherpa life at high altitude. Spend the night in a tea house.

  • Max Altitude:5,360 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:6-7 hours

Day 11Thame Village Trek (3,820 m, 5–6 hrs)

Begin to descend down valleys of alpine trees and rhododendron. Pass small yak grazing grounds and hamlets, seeing daily high-altitude village life. Arrive at Thame Village (3,820 m), with its ancient monasteries and original Sherpa inhabitants. Overnight in a lodge.

  • Max Altitude:3,820 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours

Day 12Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m, 5–6 hrs)

Retrace through alpine forest and side valleys. Have one final total experience of Sherpa country and mountain views in arriving at Namche Bazaar, the entry town of the Everest region. Relax and enjoy the village facilities after a few days of high-altitude trek. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.

  • Max Altitude:3,440 m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours

Day 13Trek to Lukla Village (2,840 m, 6–7 hrs)

Back further into the Dudh Koshi Valley to Lukla (2,840 m) and complete the trekking section of the holiday. The path winds through pine forest, suspension bridges, and small villages and gives a last visual farewell to the Everest area. Lodge overnight stay in Lukla. 

  • Max Altitude:2,840m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse
  • Duration:6-7 hours

Day 14Fly back to Kathmandu (25–30 min flight).

Take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu with spectacular views of the Himalayas and the valleys. Transfer to your Kathmandu hotel upon arrival. Free time in the afternoon or shopping in Thamel, and farewell cultural dinner with your trekking group. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude:1,350 m
  • Meals:Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
  • Accommodation:3 star accommodation
  • Duration:25-30 mins flight
  • Mode of Transportation:Private Vehicle Transfer

Day 15Departure Day

After breakfast, you will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport for the departure flight. Depart from Nepal with great memories of the Gokyo Lake Trek, having experienced the glory, culture, and grandeur of the Everest region.

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Gokyo Lake and Renjo La Pass Trek - 15 Days Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off (private vehicle)
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin sharing, breakfast included)
  • Tea house/lodge accommodation during trek
  • All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee)
  • Professional licensed English-speaking trekking guide
  • Necessary porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers, up to 15kg each)
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu)
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Trekking map and trip briefing session
  • First-aid kit carried by guide
  • Government taxes and official service charges

Excludes

  • International airfare to/from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Extra meals in Kathmandu (lunch & dinner except welcome/farewell)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Porter for personal day pack (if required)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover high altitude & evacuation)
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and bottled water
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging in tea houses
  • Tips for guide, porter, and drivers
  • Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather delays, strikes, etc.)

Essential Information

Travel Insurance (Compulsory)

Complete travel insurance is mandatory for every trekker. It must cover high-altitude trekking up to a height of 5,500 m, emergency evacuation in case of a medical emergency, helicopter rescue operation, hospital stay, and trip cancellation. Trekkers are required to produce proof of insurance before the trek. Make sure your insurance specifically mentions trekking in remote and high-altitude areas of Nepal.

Altitude and Acclimatization

Gokyo Lake Trek ascends progressively, with the ascent to Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m and Renjo La Pass at 5,360 m being high enough to risk Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). Genuine acclimatization days have been added into the schedule, for instance, at Namche Bazaar. AMS symptoms are headache, nausea, dizziness, and breathlessness. Trekkers must ascend slowly, drink lots of water, consume no alcohol, and inform the guide of symptoms promptly.

Drinking Water

There is water available in most tea houses along the route, which is boiled or bottled. Trekkers should carry a refillable bottle and treat the water using purification tablets or filters for safety. Hydration with lots of water is most important at high altitude, as dehydration can exacerbate AMS symptoms.

Toilets and Shower

Most lodges provide western or squat toilets, shared occasionally between two rooms. There are hot showers in the lower villages and occasionally in high-altitude villages at a nominal fee (NPR 200–500). In remote locations such as Gokyo and Renjo La, the facilities are minimal, and it is advisable to carry biodegradable wet wipes and personal hygiene.

Mobile Network & Connectivity

Cell phone coverage can be found in the majority of villages such as Namche Bazaar and Lukla, but not in higher points such as Gokyo Ri or Renjo La Pass. Wi-Fi is provided at some lodges for a small fee but is very slow. Emergency contact can be made by using satellite phones, which are available for hire if necessary.

Food on the Trail

Tea houses provide a variety of meals: Nepali dal bhat, noodles, soups, fried rice, pancakes, and momos. Vegetarian and vegan food is available in most lodges. Trekkers must carry energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits on large trekking days or in case food could be late. Drinking hot beverages like tea and coffee gives energy and provides warmth.

Responsible Trekking

Trekkers are requested to use environment-friendly methods:

  • Use refillable bottles and eschew single-use plastics.
  • Be considerate of local people and customs.
  • Dispose of rubbish properly or bring it back to main settlements.
  • Encourage local economies by purchasing locally made craft, etc., and assist in supporting sustainable tourism.

Tipping Guidelines

It is normal to tip in Nepal. Suggested guidelines:

  • Guides: USD 10–15 per day, per guide.
  • Porters: USD 5–10 per day, per porter.

Tipping tends to be into a pool and divided amongst staff. Exceptional service might warrant additional appreciation.

Clothing & Equipment

Trekkers should include layered clothing for cold, wind, and occasional snow higher altitude:

  • Waterproof and trousers
  • Insulation layers of fleece and thermals
  • Summit day down jacket
  • Warm hat, gloves, and sun gear
  • Socks, trekking boots, and gaiters
  • Stability trekking poles
  • Sub-zero temperature sleeping bag
  • Hiring gear can be arranged at Kathmandu or Lukla if necessary.

Health & Safety Precautions

It is recommended to carry a first aid kit with personal medications, painkillers, and altitude sickness medication. Guide instructions should be adhered to while walking on glaciers, rivers, and high passes like Renjo La. Don't walk alone in remote places, and inform the guide about any discomfort felt.

Permits & Paperwork

The following permits are necessary for this trek:

  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit (SNP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card

These will be arranged in advance by the trekking company. Always keep copies and store originals safely.

Cultural Sensitivity

The Everest region is home to Sherpa communities with unique Buddhist traditions. Trekkers should:

  • Dress modestly in monasteries and villages
  • Request permission prior to taking photos of people
  • Respect local festivals and customs

Gokyo Lake and Renjo La Pass Trek - 15 Days FAQs

Nepal's Gokyo Lake Trek is moderately difficult. The walking hours per day are 4 to 7 hours with gradual climbs and some steep sections. There is no technical climbing, but there is a good fitness level and stamina required to endure high-altitude walking up to 5,360 m at Renjo La Pass.

The optimum time to visit the Gokyo Trek is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and good Himalayan views. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and alpine meadows, while autumn offers crisp weather, panoramic views, and comfortable temperatures.

Yes, trekkers need a Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) Permit and a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits are necessary for all visitors entering the Everest region and are usually arranged by the trekking agency before setting out.

Yes, single trekkers can be placed in join groups or can request a private trek package with guide and porter. It is safe to trek alone on the Gokyo Lake Trek, especially with experienced guides who follow good acclimatization and watch out for altitude sickness.

Accommodation is in lodges and tea houses along the route, with twin-sharing rooms, simple toilets, and cozy eating rooms. In lower villages like Namche Bazaar, the accommodations are more pleasant, while higher villages like Gokyo and Renjo La have clean but simple lodges for high-altitude trekking.

Yes, the trek is suitable for first-time trekkers with an average level of physical fitness. Its gradual elevation gain and frequently walked paths allow first-time trekkers to experience Everest region, Himalayan views, and Sherpa culture without technical climbing.

Essential items are down jacket, sleeping bag, sun protection, water purification tablets, gloves, hat, trekking poles, and layered clothing. Trekking boots are basic essentials. Gloves, hat, and a minimalist first aid kit are recommended as extras. Rental gear is available in Lukla or Kathmandu if needed.

Altitude sickness may occur above 3,000 m, with symptoms including headache, nausea, and drowsiness. Proper acclimatization days, water consumption, slow trekking pace, and monitoring by experienced guides reduce risks. Gokyo Ri and Renjo La Pass are the highest sections, so correct acclimatization is essential.

Mobile signal is available in Namche Bazaar, Lukla, and a few of the lower villages but ceases to exist near high-altitude areas like Gokyo and Renjo La. There are a few lodges that offer Wi-Fi for a fee, though it's slow. Satellite phones can be rented in the event of an emergency.

Trekkers are able to experience Sherpa culture, Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional Himalayan villages. Views of Gokyo Village and the lifestyle of locals, participation in monastery rituals, and staying with Sherpa families provide a real cultural taste to the trek.

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