Adventure · Gokyo
Cross the Renjo La from Gokyo to Thame
Climb west from Gokyo over the Renjo La, about 5,360 m, for a view back over the Gokyo lake and Everest, then descend to Lungden on the old trade route towards Thame. One of the Three Passes, quieter than the Cho La.
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The Renjo La leaves Gokyo along the lake shore and climbs steadily up a side valley to the west, then on stone steps and switchbacks to the pass. It is a long climb of about 570 m, and at about 5,360 m the air is thin. The reward is one of the best views in Khumbu: the Gokyo lake below, the Ngozumpa glacier, and Everest, Lhotse and Makalu ranged across the eastern horizon.
The descent on the western side drops steeply over rock and sometimes snow to a small lake, then follows a valley down to Lungden at about 4,350 m, on the Bhote Koshi route that leads south to Thame. This is the old salt trade valley, much quieter than the Everest trail. From Lungden, Thame is one more day.
Treat it as a serious day: 7–9 hours, with ice possible on the western side in late autumn and spring. Go only when fully acclimatised, ideally after climbing Gokyo Ri, with a guide and in settled weather. Carry microspikes, plenty of water, snacks and warm layers. If snow or cloud is heavy, wait a day or walk back down the valley.
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Questions
How high is the Renjo La?
The Renjo La is about 5,360 m, the lowest of the Three Passes but still very high. It links Gokyo with Lungden and the Bhote Koshi valley towards Thame. The crossing takes 7–9 hours. The view east from the top, over the Gokyo lake to Everest, is one of the best on any pass in Khumbu.
Is the Renjo La harder than the Cho La?
The Renjo La is generally considered a little easier: lower and without a glacier crossing, though it has steep sections and can be icy. The Cho La, about 5,420 m, includes a glacier on its eastern side and a steep, rocky descent. Both require acclimatisation, fitness and a guide.
Can I cross the Renjo La from Thame to Gokyo instead?
Yes. Many trekkers cross from east to west, Gokyo to Lungden, but the reverse is also common, especially on the Three Passes trek done anticlockwise from Thame. Coming from Thame, you need good acclimatisation in Marlung or Lungden before the long climb from the west side.
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