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Gokyo Valley Lake with Renjola Pass Trek

A scenic high-pass loop that pairs Gokyo lakes with the less crowded Renjola Pass crossing toward Thame.

Duration

15 days

Difficulty

Challenging

Max altitude

5,360 m at Renjola Pass

Best months

Mar-May, Oct-Nov

Route overview

Renjola Pass gives the Gokyo route a satisfying circuit shape. Expect big lake views, a high pass day, and a descent through the historic Thame side of the Khumbu valley.

Trail sequence

Lukla

Namche

Dole

Machhermo

Gokyo

Renjola Pass

Lungden

Thame

Lukla

Highlights

Gokyo lake basin and Gokyo Ri

Renjola Pass views toward Everest and Rolwaling

Thame valley descent on a quieter Khumbu trail

Strong loop profile without retracing every walking day

Preparation

Build up to 4-6 hour hikes with a loaded daypack

Practice steady uphill pacing and stair climbs

Carry tested layers, rain protection, and broken-in boots

Plan an acclimatization buffer around high-altitude days

Prepare for a cold, early pass crossing with changing wind exposure

Day-wise itinerary

Lukla to Phakding

2,610 m

Follow the river valley and settle into the trek rhythm.

Phakding to Namche Bazaar

3,440 m

Climb through the national park to reach Namche.

Namche acclimatization

3,880 m

Hike high, return low, and finalize pass-day layering.

Namche to Dole

4,200 m

Branch toward the Gokyo valley and gain altitude steadily.

Dole to Machhermo

4,470 m

Move through open hillside and keep the pace measured.

Machhermo to Gokyo

4,790 m

Reach the lakes and rest before the viewpoint day.

Gokyo Ri and lakeside recovery

5,357 m

Climb for sunrise and keep the afternoon light for recovery.

Cross Renjola Pass to Lungden

5,360 m

Cross the pass early and descend carefully into the Thame-side valley.

Lungden to Thame

3,820 m

Enjoy a quieter walking day through old trading-route terrain.

Thame to Namche Bazaar

3,440 m

Rejoin Namche with easier breathing and a full loop behind you.

Namche to Lukla

2,860 m

Finish the walking section and prepare for the return flight.

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