Excellent 4.7 out of 5
20-Day Gokyo via Renjo La
For those seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty, the Renjo La circuit offers a profound alternative to the main trails through the remote Thame valley. This extended journey clockwise ensures a superior acclimatization profile and provides the most dramatic reveal of the Gokyo Lakes as you crest the 5,360m pass.See More
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The Hidden Himalayan Circuit
For those seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty, the Renjo La circuit offers a profound alternative to the main trails. This extended journey takes you clockwise through the remote Thame valley before cresting the spectacular Renjo La Pass.
Best for
Solitude Seekers
Max Altitude
5,360 m
Pace
Steady
Highlights
Renjo La Pass
Trek Highlights
Cross the spectacular, less-crowded Renjo La Pass (5,360m)
Explore the remote Thame valley — legendary home of Sherpas
Iconic 360° panorama of Everest and lakes from Renjo La
Summit Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and visit sacred lakes
20 days of deep Himalayan cultural immersion
Visit Tengboche, the largest monastery in Khumbu
Two strategic acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar
Experience the raw wilderness of Bhote Koshi valley
Full Everest region grand immersion
Trek Route Map
Why Book With Us?
Remote Valley Experts
Our team has specific logistics experience in the quieter Thame and Renjo La valleys.
Maximum Safety
Three full acclimatization days are included to ensure your body adjusts safely to high altitude.
Specialist Sherpa Teams
We use guides and porters from the Thame valley who know every hidden trail.
Comprehensive Support
24/7 dedicated support office in Kathmandu throughout your 20-day journey.
Cultural Guided Tours
Full day of expert-led Kathmandu sightseeing included to ground your journey in history.
Seamless Transfers
All airport and local transfers handled with private vehicles and expert timing.
Day-by-Day Trek Plan
Altitude Graph
Challenging — Remote & Off the Beaten Path
This 20-day route crosses the Renjo La Pass (5,360m) from the Thame Valley into Gokyo, making it one of the most scenic and least-crowded circuits in the Khumbu. Prior high-altitude experience is recommended. Expect rugged trails and fewer teahouses on the Thame–Renjo La section.
Arrive in Kathmandu
Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then a gentle descent alongside the Dudh Koshi river to the riverside village of Phakding.
Highlights
- • Airport Transfer
- • Hotel Check-in
- • Evening Briefing
Kathmandu Sightseeing
Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar
Namche to Thame Valley
Thame to Lungden
Renjo La Pass Crossing to Gokyo
Gokyo Ri Summit & Lake Exploration
Gokyo to Phortse Thanga
Phortse Thanga to Tengboche
Tengboche to Namche Bazaar
Rest & Recovery in Namche
Namche to Phakding
Phakding to Lukla
Fly back to Kathmandu
Kathmandu Cultural Tour
Buffer Day / Cultural Exploration
Contingency Buffer
International Departure
What's Included
- Professional Guide
- Shared Porter Service
- All Teahouse Accommodation
- Lukla Flight Tickets
- NP Entry Permits
- KTM Guided Sightseeing
- All Meals (B+L+D)
Service Details
What's Included
- Licensed Professional Trekking Guide
- Shared Porter Service (2 trekkers : 1 porter)
- All Teahouse / Lodge Accommodation
- Khumbu & Sagarmatha National Park Permits
- Kathmandu to Lukla Round-trip Flights
- Airport Transfers in Kathmandu
- Comprehensive First Aid Medical Kit
What's Excluded
- International Airfare & Airport Taxes
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees
- Comprehensive Travel & Rescue Insurance
- Personal Trekking Equipment (Boots, Poles, etc.)
- Hot Showers, WiFi & Battery Charging Fees
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks / Bottled Water
- Tips and Gratuities for Guide & Porters
Packing List
Daily Wear
- Layered Clothing: Lightweight base layers
- Trekking Pants: Quick-drying
- Shirts: Long and short sleeve
- Warm Hat & Gloves
- Sturdy Hiking Boots (Waterproof)
- Scarf/Buff
Technical Gear
- Daypack (30-40L)
- Trekking Poles
- Sleeping Bag (-20°C recommended)
- Water Bottle (Reusable/Insulated)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Power Bank
Hygiene & Safety
- Sunscreen (High SPF)
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Biodegradable Soap/Toiletries
- First Aid Kit (Blister care, etc.)
- Insect Repellent
Read Before You Book
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you hit the trail
Yes, most teahouses offer WiFi (via AirLink or EverestLink cards) and charging stations for a small fee ($3-$7). Note that reliability decreases as you go higher.
Common Questions
Q: Why choose Gokyo over Everest Base Camp?
Gokyo offers superior panoramic views (4 of the 14 highest peaks), pristine turquoise lakes, and significantly fewer crowds than the main EBC highway, providing a more serene and authentic experience.
Q: What fitness level is required for trekking in Nepal?
A moderate to high level of fitness is required. You should be comfortable walking 5-7 hours a day with a light pack. Cardiovascular training and leg strength are key preparations.
Q: What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained to spot early AMS symptoms. The primary protocol is to stop ascending, hydrate, and if symptoms worsen, descend immediately. Helicopter evacuation is available for emergencies.
Booking
Q: How far in advance should I book my trek?
We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (Spring and Autumn), to ensure flight availability to Lukla and the best teahouse accommodations.
Q: What is your cancellation and refund policy?
We offer a full refund for cancellations made 30 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 14 days are subject to a 50% fee. We recommend travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Preparation
Q: Is there WiFi and electricity on the trail?
Yes, most teahouses offer WiFi (via AirLink or EverestLink cards) and charging stations for a small fee ($3-$7). Note that reliability decreases as you go higher.
Q: How much extra cash should I bring?
We recommend $25-$40 USD per day for personal expenses like snacks, hot showers, charging, WiFi, and tips for your crew.
Safety
Q: Does my insurance need to cover helicopter rescue?
Yes, it is mandatory. Your insurance must specifically cover trekking up to 6,000m and include emergency helicopter evacuation.
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
We do not recommend drinking tap or stream water. Use water purification tablets, filters, or purchase boiled water at teahouses to stay safe.
Permits
Q: What specific permits are required for Gokyo?
You need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. We handle all paperwork for our trekkers.
Q: Do I need a guide for this trek?
As of 2023, the Nepal government has made it mandatory for solo trekkers to hire a licensed guide in the Everest region for safety and environmental protection.
Q: What is the luggage limit for the Lukla flight?
The weight limit is 15kg total per person (10kg for checked bag, 5kg for hand carry). Extra weight can be paid for but is not guaranteed to fly on the same plane.
Need a custom itinerary?
We can design a trip tailored specifically to your needs, fitness level, and schedule. It only takes 2 minutes to start.