When Shelby joined our Gokyo Lakes & Renjo La trek in April 2025, she was looking for something more remote than Everest Base Camp, but with the same breathtaking views. She also wanted to experience the comfort and tranquility of our private Eco-Comfort Camps along the way.
“I chose this one because it seemed more adventurous. And it offered time in the Eco-Comfort Camps, which really appealed to me,” she said after returning from the 17-day adventure through the Gokyo Valley and over the Renjo La Pass.
Here’s what Shelby experienced - and why she says this is one of the best ways to explore the Everest region.
A Trail Where You Can Hear the Mountains
Rather than following the busier Everest Base Camp route, this trek takes you deep into the Gokyo Valley - past shimmering turquoise lakes, beside Nepal’s longest glacier, and over the little-travelled Renjo La (5,400m / 17,716ft).
“We were often the only group on the trail. Each day the scenery got more dramatic, and there was this quietness you don’t often get in places like this,” Shelby recalls.
That One Moment I’ll Never Forget
For Shelby, the defining moment came while crossing Renjo La.
“We’d spent two nights in Gokyo village, looking up at the pass. It just loomed above you - you knew it was coming,” she recalled. “That morning, we woke to fresh snow and climbed through a complete winter wonderland.”
“The trail was clear, but the altitude meant a slow, steady walk to the top. Your body just moves differently that high up. But then you hit the summit and it’s just... Everest. Right there. You can see all the 8000ers - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu. It’s unbelievable.”
Is It Too Hard? Here’s How It Compares
Wondering if the trek is too tough? Shelby offered a practical comparison:
“If you’ve done the Overland Track, you’ll be good on this trip. It’s a little bit longer, so just be ready to keep going for more days - but in terms of the trail itself, it’s less technical and really well made.”
She noted that the group trekked at a steady, relaxed pace, usually reaching camp by lunch. “We had three great guides, everything was looked after, and there was no rushing. You just had to walk and take it all in.”
The Eco-Comfort Camp Experience
Shelby hadn’t expected just how much she’d appreciate the Eco-Comfort Camps along the way.
“I didn’t realise how much I’d love the extra touches - like getting tea brought to your tent in the morning, or having a proper bed off the ground. It just makes the whole experience feel easier.”
Each afternoon brought a kind of ritual. “The clouds would clear, and for a couple of hours, it was like the views revealed themselves. We’d sit back and realise where we were - it was beautiful.”
Advice for Future Trekkers
When asked what advice she’d give someone thinking about doing this trek, Shelby didn’t hesitate.
“Absolutely do it - everything’s taken care of. You just walk, eat, sleep and take in the views.”
If you’re unsure about the difficulty, she offered a down-to-earth comparison:
“If you’ve done the Overland Track, you’ll be good on this trip. It’s a little bit longer, so just be ready to keep going for more days - but in terms of the trail itself, it’s less technical and really well made.”
Reflecting on comfort, she added:
“There’s something really special about arriving at camp and not having to worry about anything. You can just relax, refuel and enjoy where you are.”
And her final reason?
“It’s quiet. You feel like you’re seeing a side of Everest that most people miss.”
Toughest part of the trek?
For Shelby, the most demanding section came on the climb to Renjo La - not because of the trail, but the altitude.
“You can actually see the pass from Gokyo village, so it kind of looms over you for a couple of days,” she recalled. “There are a few false summits, and it looks steep - and it is. Your legs are heavy, your breathing’s slow, and you just keep stepping your way up.”
Despite the effort, the reward was unforgettable.
“We were lucky to wake up that morning to a dusting of snow. The whole thing turned into a winter wonderland - it was absolutely stunning.”
Is This the Right Trek for You?
This trek is perfect if you’re looking to experience the Everest region away from the crowds, stay in exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps, and enjoy panoramic views that few other trails can offer. With expert local guides, acclimatisation days, and all meals included, you can focus entirely on the journey - and leave the logistics to us.
View Gokyo & Renjo La trek details and start planning your Nepal trekking adventure today.