EBC via Renjo La Pass | Remote Trails & Gokyo Lakes

Everest Base Camp via Renjo La Pass

The Everest Base Camp via Renjo La Pass trek is designed for adventurers seeking a quieter, more rugged path through the Himalayas. Diverting from the main EBC trail at Namche Bazaar, this route takes you through the traditional trading route of the Bhote Koshi valley towards Tibet, passing through ancient villages like Thame and Lungden. You will cross the magnificent Renjo La Pass (5,360m), which offers an unobstructed, breathtaking view of Mount Everest rising above the Gokyo Lakes. After exploring Gokyo, you will cross the Cho La pass (or route via Phortse) to join the traditional trail up to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Everest Base Camp via Renjo La Pass

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Trekking through the traditional, less-visited Bhote Koshi valley and Thame village.

Crossing the spectacular Renjo La Pass (5,360m) with incredible views of Everest and the Gokyo Lakes.

Exploring the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and climbing Gokyo Ri.

Crossing the glacier-clad Cho La Pass (5,420m).

Achieving Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and the Kala Patthar viewpoint.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Airport pickup, hotel transfer, and trek preparation.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Short flight to Lukla and a gentle walk to Phakding. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Steep ascent into Sagarmatha National Park. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Hike to the Everest View Hotel for acclimatization.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Leave the busy trail and head west to the quiet, historic Sherpa village of Thame.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Follow the ancient salt trading route towards Tibet along the Bhote Koshi river. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

A short day of trekking to aid acclimatization before the high pass.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

A steep climb to the pass rewards you with a stunning view of Everest before a steep descent to the Gokyo Lakes. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Morning climb of Gokyo Ri, then cross the Ngozumpa Glacier to Thangnak. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Navigate the icy Cho La pass and descend into the Khumbu valley at Dzongla.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Join the main EBC trail and ascend the moraine to Lobuche.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Trek to the base of the highest mountain in the world.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Early morning climb for the best Everest views, then descend down the valley. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

A long descent back to the comforts of Namche.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Final walk back to Lukla, where we celebrate the successful completion of our trek with our crew.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Mountain flight back to the capital. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,545m

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your flight home.

Everest Base Camp via Renjo La Pass

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits do I need for the Everest region?

You need two main permits: the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Both are arranged on the trail by our guide, and the fees are included in your package.

How do we handle flight delays or cancellations at Lukla Airport?

Lukla Airport operates on visual flight rules, meaning flights are regularly delayed or cancelled due to fog or high winds. We include buffer days in our itineraries. In case of extended delays, we can coordinate helicopter flights (subject to availability and extra charges, often covered by travel insurance).

What is the highest altitude reached in the Everest region?

For standard Everest Base Camp treks, the highest point is Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (18,192 ft), which offers the best views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. Acclimatization is key to enjoying this trek safely.

What are teahouses like in the Khumbu (Everest) region?

Teahouses in the Everest region are relatively well-established. Most offer shared rooms, heated communal dining areas, and menus featuring traditional Dal Bhat, soups, noodles, and pancakes. Hot showers and device charging are available for a small fee.

Is internet and Wi-Fi available on the Everest trail?

Yes, cellular data (Ncell/NTC) works up to Tengboche/Dingboche. Beyond that, you can purchase prepaid Wi-Fi cards from 'Everest Link' which work at most teahouses along the trail, though speeds can vary.

How much cash should I bring on the Everest trek?

While Namche Bazaar has ATMs, they are frequently out of cash. We recommend carrying around 2,000 to 3,000 Nepalese Rupees (approx. $15–$25 USD) per day in cash to pay for extras like Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, snacks, and tipping guides/porters.

Do I need comprehensive altitude travel insurance?

Absolutely. Your travel insurance policy must cover trekking up to 6,000 meters and include emergency helicopter evacuation. Evacuations from the remote Khumbu region can cost upwards of $5,000 USD.