Gokyo Renjo - La Pass Trek

What is the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek?

The Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek is a high-altitude trek that takes you through the Gokyo Valley, famous for its beautiful Gokyo Lakes, and includes crossing the Renjo-La Pass, which is one of the highest passes in the Everest region. The trek offers spectacular views of Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks and is considered to be a more off-the-beaten-path alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp Trek.

 

How long is the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek?

The trek generally takes about 12–14 days, depending on your pace, acclimatization schedule, and the route you choose. The total distance covered is around 90–120 kilometers (56–75 miles), depending on variations in the itinerary.

 

How difficult is the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek?

The Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek is considered moderately difficult to challenging due to its high altitude and the physically demanding Renjo-La Pass crossing. It requires good physical fitness and the ability to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. The trek's difficulty is also due to the steep ascents and the rugged terrain.

 

What is the best time to do the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek?

The best times to trek are:

• Spring (March to May): Offers pleasant weather, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons.
• Autumn (September to November): Known for stable weather, clear views, and mild temperatures.
• Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) due to rain, which makes the trails slippery and can cause landslides.

 

What is the altitude of Renjo-La Pass?

Renjo-La Pass is at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet). It is a high-altitude pass, so proper acclimatization is important to avoid altitude sickness.

 

What is the highest point of the trek?

The highest point on this trek is Gokyo Ri, a peak near the Gokyo Lakes, which stands at an altitude of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). From here, you get one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.

 

How can I prepare for the high altitude?

• Acclimatization: Take adequate rest days to help your body adjust to the higher altitudes (e.g., a day or two at Gokyo Lakes before attempting the pass).
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and carry water purification tablets or a water filter.
• Slow and steady: Ascend gradually, especially above 3,000 meters, and avoid rushing to give your body time to adjust.
• Know the symptoms of altitude sickness: Headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath are signs that you may be experiencing AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.

 

What permits are required for the trek?

You will need the following permits:

• Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Required for entering the Everest region.
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: This permit is specific to the Khumbu region.
• TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This is mandatory for trekkers in Nepal.
• These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Lukla.

 

Do I need a guide and porter?

While it is not mandatory to have a guide and porter, it is highly recommended for this trek, especially since the Renjo-La Pass is a difficult and less-traveled section. A guide can help with navigation, safety, and managing altitude sickness. A porter will help carry your heavy load, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek.

 

What should I pack for the trek?

You should pack:

Clothing: Layered clothing for cold weather (base layers, fleece jackets, a down jacket, waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, scarf).

Footwear: Well-worn trekking boots (waterproof) and warm socks.

Accessories: Sunglasses, trekking poles, sun hat, a day pack, and a headlamp.

Sleeping bag: A 4-season sleeping bag for cold nights.

Water purification: Tablets or a filter to purify water along the route.

 

What are the risks of the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek?

• Altitude sickness: Due to the high altitude, AMS is a concern. Adequate acclimatization and a slow ascent are key to minimizing risk.
• Weather: Sudden weather changes at high altitudes can make conditions difficult. Snowstorms or rain can make the trails slippery.
• Physical exhaustion: The trek is physically demanding, especially during the crossing of Renjo-La Pass, so it’s important to listen to your body and take rest days as needed.

 

Is there Wi-Fi on the trek?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available in many tea houses along the trek, but it tends to be slow, especially at higher altitudes. You will likely have to pay a small fee for Wi-Fi access.

 

Can I trek solo?

While solo trekking is allowed, it's not recommended for the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek due to its high-altitude challenges and remote areas. It’s safer to trek with a guide or a group, especially when crossing high passes like Renjo-La.

 

What type of accommodation can I expect?

The trek primarily uses tea houses for accommodation, offering basic amenities such as a bed, a common dining area, and sometimes hot showers (usually for an extra charge). The accommodations are simple but provide the essentials for trekkers.

 

What are the highlights of the Gokyo Renjo-La Pass Trek?

• The stunning Gokyo Lakes and the views of the surrounding peaks.
• Renjo-La Pass: A challenging yet rewarding pass with magnificent panoramic views.
• The opportunity to see Mount Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse from different vantage points.
• Less crowded compared to other Everest region treks, offering a more serene experience.