Lobuche East Peak Climbing – 16 Days

Himalayan

Area

1,510 km²

Established

1961

DESCRIPTION

The 16-day Lobuche East Peak Climbing expedition is a renowned adventure in Nepal’s Khumbu Region. This challenging yet rewarding climb takes place in the heart of the iconic Everest region, nestled within the greater Himalayan range and part of the Mahalangur range. The area is protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sagarmatha National Park, which boasts rich biodiversity and an ancient cultural heritage. Lobuche Peak features two summits: Lobuche East and Lobuche West, with Lobuche West being the more technical and difficult climb.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu

The flight to Nepal offers mesmerizing views of endless snowcapped peaks, lush green hills, and scattered settlements. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative will assist you with your accommodation. After settling in and resting for a while, head out for a stroll around Kathmandu. The valley boasts a collection of natural and cultural landmarks, including various ancient temples and stupas, providing insights into the local way of life.

In the afternoon, attend a briefing about the trek. Your team leader and guide will provide essential information regarding the journey. Following the briefing, join your team and guide for a welcome dinner program.

Day 2: Fly to Lukla trek to Phakding

Head to the domestic airport early in the morning and board a flight to Lukla. The flight offers views of scattered settlements, lush rolling hills, and snowcapped Himalayas. After a 45-minute flight, you will reach the small hilltop settlement of Lukla. The airstrip here was established by Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas in the mid-1960s. After landing in Lukla and taking a brief rest, proceed towards the village of Phakding.

Following the trail, you will first reach Chauri Kharka, a beautiful settlement. From there, traverse along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River to reach the settlement of Ghat, situated at an elevation of 2,550 meters. Along the way, witness the sacred peak of Khumbila, one of the few unclimbed peaks in the Khumbu region. After a brief walk, you will arrive in Phakding, nestled at 2,610 meters, a tiny Sherpa town hidden in the verdant Dudh Koshi Valley.

Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar

After breakfast, begin your trek by walking through a beautiful section of rhododendron and pine forests. As you leave the forest canopy, you will traverse alongside the Dudh Koshi River. After about an hour of walking, you will come across the glistening Mt. Thamserku (6,608m) on the right, and throughout the journey, you’ll pass through woodlands of pine, fir, and juniper forests. You will also catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge.

Continuing on the trail, you will reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. After your permits are checked, begin the uphill climb towards Namche Bazaar. Along this section, enjoy grand views of the landscapes and mountains. Upon reaching Namche, head to your tea house and later explore the region.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar

Today is your acclimatization day, allowing your body to adjust to the thinner air at higher elevations. Namche Bazaar offers various vantage points ideal for an acclimatization hike.

Start early and head to a vantage point before dawn to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas. Watch as the sun’s rays transform the snowy white peaks into a spectrum of colors. Enjoy views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, Lhotse, and other majestic mountains.

After lunch, head towards Thami, a village situated above the Bhote Khola River Valley. Traverse through the lush woodlands of Sagarmatha National Park to reach the national park headquarters above the village. From here, you can witness panoramic views of the Mahalangur range and the mighty Everest. Explore the national park headquarters and learn about the Sherpa lifestyle, culture, and the region’s biodiversity.

After exploring the area, head back to Namche Bazaar, enjoying the grand views of the dusk along the way.

Day 5: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

From Namche, take the easy level trail that cuts around the ridge from Chhorkung, leading you to the end of a buffer zone with a viewpoint offering a grand panorama of peaks from Thamserku to Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest.

From here, head towards Kyangjuma, located at an elevation of 3,550 meters. A short walk from Kyangjuma takes you to an important trail junction at Sanasa at an altitude of 3,600 meters. From Sanasa, take the trail towards Tengboche, which runs gently downhill towards the river.

The trail gradually drops to Lawichasa, set against the backdrop of Mt. Ama Dablam. From Lawichasa, a narrow trail branches north to reach Tashinga. The trail then descends steeply on stone steps to Phunki Thenga at an elevation of 3,250 meters and leads to a suspension bridge.

From the bridge, the trail climbs past water-powered prayer wheels and begins a sustained ascent through a forest of tall, mature rhododendrons. Follow the trail to reach the settlement of Tengboche. After checking in at your tea house, head towards the famous Tengboche Monastery.

Day 6: Tengboche to Pheriche

Today, the trek continues on the upper trail, offering breathtaking views of an ancient monastery. The route passes through several chortens and mani walls, as well as small villages. Along the way, you can admire the fantastic close-up views of Ama Dablam. As you progress on the trail, it traverses beneath the towering north face of Ama Dablam.

Following the trail, you will enter the Imja Valley, which gradually opens up as you approach the confluence of the Lobuche River. The descent into the river is followed by the day’s last and steepest ascent, leading up to Dingboche. After a short trek from Dingboche, you will finally reach Pheriche.

Day 7: Rest and acclimatization in Pheriche

Today is your second acclimatization day, and the settlement offers various vantage points ideal for acclimatization excursions. After breakfast, hike to a vantage point to witness stunning views of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Cholatse, Taboche, Lobuche West, and Lobuche East. Later, explore the settlement and relax while soaking in the grand views of the landscape.

Day 8: Pheriche to Lobuche

After breakfast, start the trek, traversing through high mountain country towards the settlement of Lobuche. Along the trail, pass through villages and witness grand views of the landscape. As you gain altitude, catch the first glimpse of Lobuche Peak. Following the trail along the glaciers, reach the settlement of Lobuche. Upon arrival, relax and rest in preparation for tomorrow’s trek to the High Camp.

Day 9: Lobuche to Lobuche High camps

Today, you will head towards the Lobuche Base Camp. Start the trek by traversing across the valley, followed by a steep rocky ascent. As you progress, enjoy grand views of the Lobuche Glacier, Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Pokalde, Thamserku, Kantega, and other various mountain peaks. Following the trail across the moraine, you will reach the Lobuche Base Camp. After a brief rest, continue towards the High Camp. Following the rocky moraine, you will reach the High Camp. Upon arrival, rest and relax in preparation for tomorrow’s expedition.

Day 10: Climb Lobuche East summit and return to Lobuche

From this day onward, the climbing period begins, starting with various basic to advanced training sessions. After summiting the peak, descend back to the Base Camp and eventually to the village of Lobuche.

Day 11: Lobuche to Pangboche

Wake up early to enjoy the grand views of the Himalayas during sunrise. After breakfast, start the trek. Today’s trail will mostly be on a downward section, so take it slowly and enjoy the scenery. As you progress, cross various settlements and vast alpine meadows. Upon reaching Pangboche, take a brief rest before heading out to explore the settlement. Engage in friendly conversations with the locals to learn about their way of life and culture.

Day 12: Pangboche Namche Bazaar

After breakfast, begin the trek. Today’s trail will take you from the high mountain country to the lush woodlands of the region. Following the downward trail, reach Namche Bazaar. After a brief rest, head out to explore the settlement and visit the various pubs and restaurants in the region.

Day 13: Namche Bazaar to Lukla

From Tengboche, continue towards Phunki Tenga and descend to Sanasa and Kyangjuma, eventually reaching Namche Bazaar. Along the trail, you’ll pass through subtropical wet hill forests of rhododendrons, a mix of conifers, oaks, orchids, and moss-draped trees, with miles of undergrowth.

Once you reach Namche Bazaar, head to your accommodation and later explore the area. There are various restaurants and pubs in the vicinity where you can unwind and enjoy local cuisine and drinks.

Day 14: Lukla to Kathmandu

Catch an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, and upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You may opt for a guided tour of the city or go souvenir shopping for your friends and family.

Day 15: Free day at Kathmandu

Today, you have a free day to explore the city on your own or opt for a guided tour to discover the various secrets of the Kathmandu Valley. In the evening, join in for a special farewell dinner to commemorate the end of your successful expedition.

Day 16: Final departure

Today, you’ll have leisure time until your departure flight. The Alpine Club of Himalaya representative will drop you at the airport three hours before your flight departs.

If you prefer to extend your stay, you can consult us for short tours such as national park visits, rafting, mountain biking, or tours to Tibet, India, or Bhutan.

If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact the Alpine Club of Himalaya – Walk of the Himalaya.

COST INCLUDE

All arrival and departure transfer services to and from Airport, both Domestic, and International, with other necessary surface transport as per itinerary.
Assistance at the International airport by Alpine Club of Himalaya representative while arriving and departing.
3 Nights of three-star twin sharing hotel accommodations in Kathmandu on a B/B basis,
Experienced trekking and climbing guides during trekking and climbing (1:1 Sherpa).
Regular Flight Tickets for the Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu sector to climbing members/ Staff.
All trekking and camping equipment during the climbing period.
3 meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch, and Dinners with tea or coffee) along with available accommodation at Hotel/Lodge/Guest Houses or tents for members and Staff during the trek and climbing on twin sharing basis.
20kg baggage allowance during trekking-up carrying by the porter.
Trekking Permit (National Park entry fee)
TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
Climbing permit for Lobuche East peak.
All wages, pieces of equipment, medical and accidental Insurance for all involved staff.
Appropriate food for high altitude and all climbing crew at base camp and above as required.
Required fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period.
All necessary paper works, office Service charges, and Government Taxes levied in Nepal
Complete pre-departure information, flight ticket reconfirmation, and visa extension procedure services (if necessary)
Farewell Dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant with a domestic culture show in Kathmandu before departure.
Alpine Club of Himalaya Gifts (T-shirt/Pashmina etc.)
Government Taxes & Service Charges
Ncell Sim Card (Nepalese Sim Card including 20 GB data pack) - Only 1 for a group.

COST EXCLUDE

Lunch and Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
Any packed food/snacks, aerated drinks, energy drinks, mineral water, alcohol, cigarettes, chocolates, nutria-bars
Items of personal nature, Laundry Expenses, Tips
Expenses incurred towards usage of landlines, mobiles, walkie-talkies or satellite phones And Internet expenses
Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears
Any extra services or products or offers or activities which are not mentioned in the itinerary
Any extra expenses arising out of various/unforeseen situations like natural calamities, landslides, political disturbances, strikes, changes in Government regulations,
Any additional staff other than specified.
Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization expenses.
Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation if required.
Travel Insurance and helicopter rescue.
Airfare of international flights.
Nepal entry visa fee (Visa issuance is easy at the arrival)Waketalkies & Filming permit.
Tips, gifts, souvenirs.
Any other item not included in the “THE PACKAGE COST INCLUDES” SECTION