Renjo La Pass Trekking

Lukla Airport  

Lukla Airport, officially known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, is one of the most thrilling and challenging airports in the world. It serves as the gateway to the Everest region, making it a critical hub for trekkers and climbers. During peak trekking seasons, the airport becomes extremely busy with multiple daily flights from Kathmandu. 

However, flights to and from Lukla are highly dependent on weather conditions, which can often be unpredictable. Delays and cancellations are common due to sudden changes in weather, so travelers are advised to plan accordingly. 

In cases of prolonged delays or cancellations, a helicopter charter from Kathmandu to Lukla is an alternative option. While this is more expensive than a regular airplane flight, it provides a viable solution for those on tight schedules. 

To account for potential delays, we recommend scheduling an extra day in Kathmandu after completing treks like Everest Three Trek. This ensures a buffer for any unexpected changes in flight schedules and provides a stress-free end to your Himalayan adventure. 

Trek Difficulty  

Renjo La Pass Trek is a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be a professional athlete or an Olympic-level fitness enthusiast to complete it. Success on this trek often depends more on mental determination and preparation than on age or physical prowess. Interestingly, many young trekkers have failed to complete the trek, while older adventurers have triumphed, proving that perseverance and attitude are key. 

Anyone who is mentally and physically fit can successfully reach the Renjo La Pass. The journey requires a steady approach: walking at a comfortable pace, staying hydrated, enjoying the natural beauty, keeping warm, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a positive mindset. These habits form the foundation for a successful and enjoyable trek. 

While the trail is undoubtedly more challenging compared to other treks in the region—with steep ascents, zigzag paths, and occasional icy sections—it does not require any technical climbing skills or specialized equipment. The trek tests endurance and resilience but is accessible to those prepared to take on the adventure with the right mindset. 

High Altitude Sickness 

High altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can affect trekkers as they ascend to higher elevations. Common symptoms include headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, a rapid pulse, and sleeping difficulties. Factors like changing weather, cold temperatures, strong winds, intense sun, low oxygen levels, and improper diet can contribute to its onset. 

Trekkers on the Everest Three Passes Trek must take precautions to minimize the risk of AMS. Proper clothing and equipment to stay warm, avoiding alcohol and smoking, staying hydrated, eating energy-rich foods, and maintaining a positive mindset are essential. Physical preparation before the trek, including strength and endurance training, is highly recommended. 

Preventive Measures: 

The most commonly used medication for AMS prevention is Diamox (Acetazolamide), which is widely available in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar. Our guides also carry Diamox and can assist with its use when needed. 

Ascending gradually and allowing time for acclimatization is crucial. If symptoms worsen, descending to a lower altitude is the most effective remedy. 

Emergency Assistance: 

For mild symptoms, our experienced guides provide support through medication, rest, and proper nutrition. In more severe cases, they will escort trekkers to the nearest medical center. If the situation becomes critical, we arrange a private helicopter evacuation, which is covered under personal travel insurance. Therefore, obtaining comprehensive insurance before the trek is mandatory. 

Altitude sickness can affect individuals of any age, gender, or physical condition. Awareness, preparation, and a cautious approach ensure a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience in the Everest region. 

Best Time to Visit Renjo La Pass Trek  

Planning a trek to Renjo La Pass? Understanding the best time to visit is crucial for an enjoyable experience, as weather and other factors significantly impact your journey. 

Spring (March–May) 

Spring, the pre-monsoon season, is one of the best times to trek. 

Weather: Days are warmer and longer, offering excellent trekking conditions. 

Scenery: The lower Everest region comes alive with blooming rhododendrons and other flowers, while higher routes might experience occasional snowfall under sunny skies. 

Peak Months: April is particularly popular, attracting more trekkers due to its fantastic weather. 

Autumn (September–November) 

Autumn, the post-monsoon season, is equally ideal for the trek. 

Weather: Clear blue skies, moderate temperatures, and a pleasant atmosphere define this season. Nights are cold but not freezing, while snowfall is rare. 

Crowd: October is a peak month, bustling with trekkers and visitors. Tea houses and cafes along the route are lively and well-prepared to accommodate travelers. 

Both spring and autumn offer fantastic trekking opportunities with stable weather, clear views of the Himalayas, and comfortable conditions. While spring provides vibrant landscapes, autumn boasts unparalleled clarity and serenity. 

Accommodation on the Renjo La Pass Trek 

During the Renjo La Pass trek, accommodation is provided primarily in tea houses, which are the most accessible and common options along the route. 

Tea Houses 

Facilities: Tea houses offer basic but clean accommodations, typically featuring a bed with a blanket inside the room. In some places, you may find rooms with attached bathrooms, but this is not always the case. 

Meals: These tea houses also provide tea, snacks, and meals, which are an essential part of the trekking experience. 

Environment: While the tea houses may appear simple and modest, they are well-maintained and offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere for trekkers. 

Luxury Accommodation 

For those seeking more comfort, there are luxury lodges available in the lower regions of the trek, such as Lukla, Monjo, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar. 

Availability: Luxury accommodations are not available throughout the entire trek, and their availability depends on the location. 

Sleeping Bags: While tea houses provide blankets, the cold temperatures at higher altitudes may make them insufficient for warmth. For added comfort and warmth, it is recommended that trekkers bring their own sleeping bags. This ensures a more comfortable and safe night’s rest during the trek. 

In our trekking program, we offer standard lodging options, but trekkers who prefer a more luxurious stay can opt for higher-end lodges where available. 

Food and Water on the Renjo La Pass Trek 

Food and water are essential elements of your trekking experience on the Everest Three Pass route. The tea houses along the trail provide meals, and there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Food Options 

Tea houses offer a variety of food choices, including: 

• Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat 

• Soups and snacks 

• Momos (dumplings) 

• Fried rice 

• Continental and American breakfasts 

• Porridge 

• Bread with jam and honey 

• Eggs 

• Noodles, spaghetti 

• Spring rolls 

• Fried potatoes 

• Steak 

We recommend sticking to vegetarian food during the trek. Meat is carried by porters and yaks from lower regions without refrigeration, which may lead to stomach issues for trekkers. We suggest avoiding meat dishes along the route, except for tinned fish or preserved items. 

You don't need to carry much food with you, as the tea houses provide substantial meals. However, snacks like chocolates (e.g., Dairy Milk, Snickers, Mars) can be handy for energy. 

Water 

While local people may drink directly from rivers and waterfalls, this water is not safe for foreigners. To ensure your health and safety, we recommend drinking only bottled or boiled water. 

For added safety, you can use water purification tablets. These tablets kill 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, ensuring your water is clean and safe to drink. 

Due to the altitude, it is essential to stay hydrated. Aim to drink 2-3 liters of water per day to maintain your energy levels and prevent altitude sickness. 

Hiring a Guide for the Everest Three Pass Trek 

A trekking guide is a licensed professional recognized by the Government of Nepal, responsible for guiding visitors through the Himalayan regions. A guide’s role extends beyond simply leading the way; they are an ambassador of Nepal, providing valuable insights into the local culture, history, geography, and religion, ensuring a safe and successful trek. 

Role of a Trekking Guide 

• A trekking guide, also known as a Trek Leader, plays an essential role in ensuring trekkers have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Their responsibilities include: 

• Leading the right trail to your destination, ensuring you stay on the correct path. 

• Booking tea houses and ordering meals for trekkers. 

• Managing porters and other logistical arrangements. 

• Offering entertainment and creating a friendly, enjoyable atmosphere throughout the trek. 

In addition to being a guide, they educate visitors about the region, including its cultural, natural, and historical significance, contributing to a deeper understanding of the journey. Guides also play an important role in promoting the sustainability of the local environment and helping preserve the natural beauty of the Himalayas. 

Qualities of a Good Trekking Guide 

A professional trekking guide should possess the following qualities: 

• Excellent communication skills to connect with visitors and share insights. 

• Problem-solving ability to handle unexpected challenges and ensure a smooth trip. 

• Self-motivation and physical fitness to handle the rigors of the trek and support trekkers. 

• Customer service excellence, ensuring trekkers feel comfortable, safe, and well-cared for throughout the journey. 

At our agency, we take pride in selecting guides who are not only government-licensed but also undergo continuous training to ensure they provide the highest level of service. Whether you’re trekking in the Everest region, Annapurna region, Upper Mustang, or any other trail, our guides are dedicated to making your trip a success. They are your trusted companions who contribute to a memorable and fulfilling trekking experience. 

Hiring a Porter for the Everest Three Pass Trek 

Trekking porters are essential members of the trekking team, responsible for carrying trekkers' gear from one destination to another. They are typically from local communities such as the Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, and Rai groups. Known for their kindness, pleasant demeanor, and ever-present smiles, porters often communicate in basic English, but their warmth and helpfulness transcend language barriers. 

Role of a Trekking Porter 

Gear Transport: Porters carry your luggage, usually between 25 to 30 kg, ensuring trekkers can enjoy the journey without the burden of heavy packs. 

Daily Routine: Porters do not stay with trekkers but are based in local porter houses. Each morning, they come to the tea house to collect the gear and deliver it to the next stop, returning to their porter house after completing their duties. 

Important Support: Porters are the backbone of trekking in the Everest region. Without them, the trek would be incomplete. Their hard work enables trekkers to focus on the adventure, while they take care of the logistical load. 

Guidance and Relationship 

The guide manages the porters, coordinating their efforts, especially when they arrive at the Lukla airport where porters are waiting to be assigned. 

It’s important to maintain a good relationship with porters, as they are vital to a successful trek. The rapport between trekkers, guides, and porters ensures a smooth, positive experience. 

Tipping Porters 

At the end of the trek, it’s customary to tip the porters for their hard work and support. Tips are a way to show gratitude for their contributions throughout the journey. 

Porters are an integral part of the Everest Three Pass trek, and their assistance is indispensable to ensuring trekkers have a safe and enjoyable experience. 

Our guide will manage the porter, who will be on standby at Lukla airport before your flight. After completing the Everest Three Pass trek, the porter will accompany you and ensure your gear is transported throughout the journey. Once the trek is complete, the porter will depart from Lukla after fulfilling his responsibilities, ensuring your equipment is safely handled throughout the trip. 

Telephone and Internet Access on the Renjo La Pass Trek 

Internet, telephone, and mobile services are available throughout most of the Everest Three Pass trek, though there are some limitations due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions. 

Internet Access 

Everest Link: This service provides internet access all the way to Everest Base Camp (EBC). You can purchase Wi-Fi cards for use along the trail. Everest Link offers better speed and reliability compared to other services on the trekking route. 

Other Options: Mobile networks such as NTC (Nepal Telecom) and NCELL are available in most areas along the trekking route and in Kathmandu. While they are more affordable, their internet speed and reliability may be lower than Everest Link, especially during bad weather or snow. 

Guesthouses: Many guesthouses in lower regions such as Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar offer Wi-Fi, though this is usually not free and may incur a charge. 

Telephone Access 

Mobile Networks: NTC and NCELL work well in most areas along the trekking trail. However, in more remote regions such as Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass, both mobile networks may be unavailable. 

Emergency Contact: In areas where mobile networks don’t reach, tea houses often have landline phones for emergency contact with Kathmandu. Our guide can use the phone at local tea houses to communicate if necessary. 

SIM Cards: You can purchase NTC and NCELL SIM cards at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in the tourist district of Thamel. These SIM cards work well in most areas along the trekking route and in Kathmandu. 

Despite some connectivity challenges due to geography and weather, mobile networks and internet services are generally accessible on the Everest Three Pass trek, ensuring you can stay in touch when needed.  

Please note that telephone and internet access is not available in the high-altitude pass sections of the Everest Three Pass trek, including Kongma La (5,535 m), Cho La (5,420 m), and Renjo La (5,360 m), as well as the surrounding areas. These high passes are situated in remote regions where network coverage is limited or non-existent due to the challenging geography and altitude. 

Toilet and Shower on the Renjo La Pass Trek 

When trekking in the Himalayas of Everest Three Pass it’s important to be prepared for the conditions regarding toilet and shower facilities. Here’s an overview of what to expect during the Renjo La Pass trek: 

Toilets 

Higher Altitudes: In the higher sections of the trek, toilets are typically shared by all trekkers and are located outside the tea houses. These are basic facilities, often without running water, so you may encounter simple pit toilets. 

Lower Regions: In places like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, many guesthouses offer rooms with attached bathrooms, including a toilet and shower. These are more comfortable compared to the higher altitudes. 

Showers 

High Altitudes: Due to the lack of running water, showers are not available at higher elevations. Instead, you may have access to bucket showers, where warm water is provided in a bucket for a quick wash. However, during bad weather conditions, such as heavy snow, obtaining warm water may be difficult, especially above 4,500 meters. 

Lower Altitudes: In lower regions like Lukla and Namche, you may find better shower facilities at the guesthouses, but note that there could be a fee for using these services. 

Additional Tips 

It’s highly recommended to bring toilet paper with you, as this is not always provided at the tea houses, especially in the higher regions. The cold water in the mountains can be uncomfortable, so personal hygiene products will help ensure a more comfortable trek. 

Trek Insurance for Renjo La Pass Trek 

Trek insurance is a vital aspect of your preparation for the Renjo La Pass trek. We strongly recommend that trekkers obtain insurance that covers up to 5,500 meters, as this will ensure you are protected in case of any unexpected events or emergencies during your trek. 

Why Trek Insurance is Important 

Trekking at high altitudes comes with inherent risks such as altitude sickness, accidents, and physical illnesses. In the event of an emergency, such as needing helicopter rescue or medical attention at a hospital, having comprehensive insurance will cover the costs and ensure timely assistance. In some cases, unexpected events like flight cancellations or delays may also be covered by your insurance. 

What to Look for in Trek Insurance 

Altitude Coverage: Ensure your policy covers you for trekking up to at least 5,500 meters. 

Emergency Evacuation: The ability to be evacuated by helicopter if needed. 

Medical Coverage: For treatment of altitude sickness, injuries, or other health concerns. 

Flight and Trip Delays: Coverage for delays or cancellations, especially for your flights into and out of Nepal. 

Where to Get Insurance 

There are several reliable insurance companies that offer trekking-specific policies. You can easily find these providers online, ensuring that the policy meets your specific needs for the Everest Three Pass trek. 

Note: It’s crucial to purchase your insurance before flying to Nepal to avoid any complications if an emergency arises during your trek. 

Trek insurance is essential for your safety and peace of mind. It ensures you’re covered in case of unforeseen circumstances, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and adventure of the Everest Three Pass trek with confidence. 

Trek Permits for Everest Three Pass Trek 

To trek the Everest Three Pass route, certain permits are required to ensure access to the Everest region and to support conservation efforts. 

1. Everest National Park Permit (Sagarmatha National Park Permit) 

This permit is mandatory for entering the Everest National Park, also known as Sagarmatha National Park. 

Cost: $30 per person 

Where to Obtain: You can acquire the permit either at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or at the Monjo entrance gate in the Everest National Park. 

2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit 

This permit is required for entering the Khumbu region, including the villages and trekking areas in the Everest region. 

Cost: $20 per person 

Where to Obtain: It can be obtained at the Monjo village of the Everest region. 

Note: This permit replaced the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card starting from October 1, 2018. Therefore, there is no need for a TIMS card anymore. 

These permits help with the regulation of trekkers in the Everest region and contribute to the preservation of the environment and local culture. Make sure to arrange these permits before you start your trek. 

Trek Equipment List for Renjo la Pass Trek 

When trekking to Renjo La Pass, it is essential to have the right equipment for your protection, comfort, and safety. Proper trekking gear not only shields your body but also helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a smooth and successful journey. Below is a list of mandatory gear for the trek:  

Mandatory Trekking Gear: 

• Sleeping Bag (-20°C): Essential for staying warm at high altitudes during cold nights. 

• Trekking Poles: To assist with stability and reduce stress on your knees, especially on steep terrain. 

• Waterproof Hiking Boots: Keep your feet dry and protected from the cold and rugged trail conditions. 

• Waterproof Warm Gloves: Protect your hands from cold temperatures and wet conditions. 

• Sport Shoes: Comfortable shoes for rest days or lower-altitude walks. 

• Waterproof Hiking Pants: Essential for protecting against rain, snow, and cold winds. 

• Fleece Pants: For warmth and comfort when you’re resting or during colder nights. 

• Comfortable Underwear: Lightweight and moisture-wicking fabrics are recommended for long days on the trail. 

• Warm and Thin Socks: Multiple pairs to keep your feet dry and warm. 

• Duffel Bag (90L): For storing your main trekking gear (the porters will carry this). 

• Hand Carry Bag: For carrying essential items on the trek, such as water, snacks, and valuables. 

• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes. 

• Hiking Shorts: For warmer weather or rest days. 

• Down Jacket: Provides warmth in cold conditions, especially at higher altitudes. 

• Warm Cap & Sun Cap: A warm hat for cold weather and a sun hat for protection from the sun. 

• Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the intense sun and high-altitude glare. 

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays. 

• Lip Care: Lip balm to prevent chapped lips in dry, windy conditions. 

• Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Useful for early morning or late evening trekking, as well as for safety in dark areas. 

• Neck Gaiter: For additional warmth and protection against wind, dust, and sun. 

• Lightweight Thermal Tops: Layering is key for staying warm and comfortable. 

• Waterproof Jacket with Hood: Ensure it's breathable to maintain comfort and dry in rainy conditions. 

• Rain Coat: For sudden downpours or wet conditions. 

• Travel Towel: Compact and quick-drying for hygiene during the trek. 

• Camera: To capture the stunning scenery of the Everest region. 

• Personal First Aid Kit: Though the guide will also carry a first aid kit, having your own supplies for minor injuries or discomforts is advisable. 

This gear list ensures you're well-prepared for the challenging conditions on the Everest Three Pass trek. Remember that high-altitude trekking demands extra attention to your comfort and safety, so invest in high-quality gear and check it thoroughly before departure.