Climb the Iconic Mt. Lhotse [8,516M]
Watch the sunrise from the summit of the world’s 4th tallest peak, peering down at both the Tibetan plateau and Nepali lowland.
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Quick Facts
- calendar_clock Duration: 60 Days
- signal_cellular_alt Difficulty level: ★★★★ info
- groups Group Size: 2 to 10
- partly_cloudy_day Best Season: Spring
- hiking Hike per Day: 5 - 7 Hours
- hotel Accomodation: Hotel + Lodge + Tent
- travel_explore Country: Nepal
- landscape_2 Peak Name: Mt. Lhotse
- landscape Mountain Range: Mahalangur Range
- route Climbing Route: S COL; W-Face
- altitude Max Altitude: 8,516M (27,940 ft.)
Overview
Expedition Overview
Lhotse: Everest's Imposing Neighbor
Lhotse, towering to the south of Everest, holds the prestigious title of the world's fourth-highest mountain. These two giants are connected by the mighty Everest South Col. For climbers attempting Lhotse, the familiar route used for Everest ascents comes into play, with a key divergence at the South Col.
This formidable peak boasts several distinctions. Standing tall at an impressive 8,516 meters (27,940 feet), Lhotse is the fourth highest mountain on Earth. The Western Face is the preferred route for most Lhotse climbers, while the southern face is a sight to behold. Recognized as one of the world's largest, it rises a staggering 3.2 kilometers vertically across a mere 2.25 kilometers horizontally. The Lhotse Massif itself is comprised of three distinct peaks: Lhotse East (8,414 meters), Lhotse Main (8,516 meters), and Lhotse Shar (8,383 meters).
A Swiss expedition successfully conquered Lhotse in 1956, marking a historic first ascent. Located near the border with Tibet, the name "Lhotse" translates to "South Peak" in the Tibetan language. Climbers attempting Everest and Lhotse follow the same route until reaching the South Col. Here, they diverge, with Everest climbers taking the left path and Lhotse climbers taking the right. Lhotse stands as a formidable neighbor to Everest, offering a challenging and rewarding climb for experienced mountaineers. Its unique geography and historical significance make it a peak of great distinction in the Himalayas.
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Itinerary
Your Kathmandu adventure begins upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. After navigating visa formalities and collecting your luggage, head towards the exit of the arrival hall. Look out for a friendly face holding a placard with "Himali Exped" written on it - that's your trip leader! They'll be waiting to whisk you away to your hotel in Kathmandu, ensuring a smooth transition from your travels to the heart of Nepal.
Kathmandu welcomes you for two crucial days of pre-climb prep: meet your team, handle formalities, finalize gear, and attend a trip orientation led by your expert guide. Optional sightseeing lets you explore the city's charm before embarking on your Lhotse expedition.
An early breakfast fuels you for a thrilling mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a 30-minute journey aboard a STOL aircraft. Land on the historic airstrip built by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpas in the 1960s. Your trek begins with a descent to the Dudh Kosi River, where you'll join the main trail towards Namche Bazaar. The day's walk is gentle, passing through the village of Ghat before reaching Phakding, your overnight stop at 2,550 meters.
Today's trek follows the Dudh Kosi River, winding through a scenic pine forest. We'll navigate several suspension bridges, passing charming settlements like Zapute, Toktok, Benkar, and Chumoa. Reaching Monjo, the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park, we'll complete park formalities and officially enter this protected area.
Descending from the park entrance, we'll cross another bridge before reaching the foot of a hill where the impressive Hillary Bridge awaits. After traversing this historic bridge, a climb up the hill towards Namche Bazaar commences. Keep your eyes peeled for a possible glimpse of Thamserku Mountain. If the weather is clear, you might even be rewarded with your first view of the majestic Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Kusum Kanguru! Prepare to be awestruck as Namche Bazaar, your destination for the night, comes into view.
Descending from the park entrance, we'll cross another bridge before reaching the foot of a hill where the impressive Hillary Bridge awaits. After traversing this historic bridge, a climb up the hill towards Namche Bazaar commences. Keep your eyes peeled for a possible glimpse of Thamserku Mountain. If the weather is clear, you might even be rewarded with your first view of the majestic Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Kusum Kanguru! Prepare to be awestruck as Namche Bazaar, your destination for the night, comes into view.
Namche Bazaar is regarded as gateway to the high Himalayas. It is also the main trading center and a capital of Sherpa land. Rest is recommended in Namche for acclimatization purpose. Short hike will be arranged to the ancient Sherpa village of Thame to observe the rich Sherpa culture or we can also visit nearby Khumjung, Khunde or Khongde villages. Shopping in marketplace of Namche is another fine idea. National Park Head office, Museum and monasteries are other places of interest. The area is clustered with cafes, shops, bakeries and restaurants. The place supports facilities of post office, hospital, government health post. Internet access is also available at Namche so that you can contact your near ones.
Today's trek follows the glacial Dudh Koshi River, offering stunning views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam. We'll walk amidst a vibrant tapestry of colorful rhododendron forests teeming with wildlife like musk deer and pheasants. Reaching Sanasa, a junction point, one path leads towards Gokyo Valley while ours continues towards Everest Base Camp.
Our route takes a steeper climb towards Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. The effort will be rewarded with breathtaking close-up views of the surrounding mountains. Take time to visit the monastery and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Continuing through birch and rhododendron forests, we'll reach Deboche, our overnight stop for the day.
Our route takes a steeper climb towards Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. The effort will be rewarded with breathtaking close-up views of the surrounding mountains. Take time to visit the monastery and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Continuing through birch and rhododendron forests, we'll reach Deboche, our overnight stop for the day.
Today's journey presents a diverse landscape. We'll descend to the Imja River before embarking on a climb through lush forests towards Pangboche, a village adorned with traditional Chortens (memorials) and Mani walls. Take a moment to visit the Pangboche Monastery, a cultural gem nestled amidst the mountains. The trail then offers access to the Imja Valley before we tackle a steeper climb to Pheriche. Continuing onwards, we'll cross the Lobuche River and finally ascend the day's steepest section, reaching Dingboche. This village thrives on agriculture, and you'll witness fields enclosed by stone walls where buckwheat, potatoes, and barley are cultivated. Dingboche will be our resting point for the night, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
This is a day to haul up and rest without being idle. We can stroll around the village and get pally with the local folks with some interesting conversations. This will give us deep insights into the lifestyles and cultures of the local folks in this region. At the same time, we can also relish the landscapes that surround us and we can also catch up on some reading. Our acclimatizing gets a further boost with our hike to Chhukung village. We then do a steep climb up to Chhukung Ri at 5550m [if we feel like it] and as we top it with gasping breath we soon realize the gritty climb was worth the go; the rewards are as lovely as it comes with the natural beauty that greets us for our efforts, the jaw-dropping vistas of Cho Oyu at 8201m, Pumori at 7161m, the gigantic Lhotse wall at 8400m, Amadablam at 6812m, Makalu at 8481m & Baruntse at 7129m all put together set our hearts on top gear as it skips a beat while watching these massive peaks.
Our day begins with a trek alongside a dramatic crevasse, nestled between a glacier's lateral moraine and a towering mountain. A gradual climb leads us to the Changri Nup Glacier. The path unfolds with a series of gentle rises and dips, offering a dynamic walking experience. The final stretch brings us down slightly, revealing a stark landscape of sandy moraine dotted with lodges. This cluster of buildings, nestled amidst jagged rock and surrounded by colossal mountains, is Gorakshep, our destination for the night.
Today's adventure is a culmination of your efforts - reaching Lhotse Base Camp! We'll embark on a climb along the Khumbu Glacier, a landscape etched with the power of nature. As we ascend, the colossal Khumbu Icefall unfolds before you, a testament to the raw beauty and immense challenge of these mountains. Finally, you'll arrive at the base of Everest, the world's highest peak. Soak in the awe-inspiring panorama - towering mountains, the vast Khumbu Glacier, and the feeling of standing amongst legends. Tonight, you'll camp amidst these giants, a memory to be forever cherished.
The next four weeks will be spent at Base Camp, your temporary home amidst the Himalayas. Take some time to get settled in, familiarize yourself with the camp layout, and ensure your gear is readily accessible.
Spiritual Observance: Following the Tibetan calendar, we'll conduct a special puja ceremony. This traditional offering seeks blessings for a safe and successful climb.
Sharpening Your Skills: To ensure everyone's safety and optimize your ascent, training sessions will be held at Base Camp. These sessions will take place on the lower Khumbu Glacier icefalls. The focus will be on equipment checks, refining climbing techniques, and reviewing crucial rescue procedures. These preparations will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the challenges ahead.
Spiritual Observance: Following the Tibetan calendar, we'll conduct a special puja ceremony. This traditional offering seeks blessings for a safe and successful climb.
Sharpening Your Skills: To ensure everyone's safety and optimize your ascent, training sessions will be held at Base Camp. These sessions will take place on the lower Khumbu Glacier icefalls. The focus will be on equipment checks, refining climbing techniques, and reviewing crucial rescue procedures. These preparations will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the challenges ahead.
Lobuche East Summit Push (6,119m). These challenging days see you attempt the summit of Lobuche East. Prepare for an early start on Day 16 for a tough climb with fixed ropes on steep slopes. The reward? Breathtaking views from the 6,119m peak. Day 17 brings the descent back to Base Camp, followed by rest and gear checks on Day 18.
The journey continues towards Lhotse Base Camp. Expect a few hours on the Khumbu Glacier, passing Changri Nup Glacier and Gorak Shep along the way.
The next stage of acclimatization involves rotating through higher camps (Camp 2 and potentially Camp 3/Lhotse Face). This program helps your body progressively adjust to the altitude. The exact schedule may vary depending on individual needs, as determined by your expedition leader. Once complete, you'll return to Base Camp to rest and wait for the ideal weather window for the summit push.
We will begin our return trip on this day. We will leave Lhotse Base Camp and retrace our route to Pheriche where we will stay overnight.
Our return journey begins early with a departure from Pheriche. Following the familiar trail along the Imja River, we'll be greeted by a scenic walk through forests of birch and spruce, leading us to Tengboche village. After a brief stop to take in the sights, the trail continues through a vibrant display of blooming rhododendrons before reaching a bridge. Crossing the Dudh Koshi River, we'll traverse the Dudh Koshi gorge and its pine forests, eventually arriving at Sansa village. Keep your eyes peeled for Himalayan wildlife like mountain goats, Thars, and local birds along the way. The final leg takes us past a chorten (a Buddhist reliquary monument) and on to the army camp at Namche Bazaar, where we'll rest for the night.
Our trek concludes with a delightful descent from Namche Bazaar. We'll cross the Dudh Koshi River one last time, following the path adorned with colorful prayer stones and flags. This easy trail leads us past Monjo, where we'll complete any formalities at the Sagarmatha National Park check post. A stop for lunch awaits in Phakding before the final leg to Lukla. Tonight, nestled in a cozy lodge in Lukla, you can unwind, organize your photos, or capture your memories in a journal. As you reflect on this unforgettable adventure, savor the knowledge that this is the final day of your Himalayan trek.
Take an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Our team will be transferred to hotel in a private vehicle in Kathmandu. Take leisure and enjoy your rest of the day in Kathmandu.
Your Lhotse expedition culminates in Kathmandu, where a well-deserved free day awaits. This is your time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. Immerse yourself in Kathmandu's rich tapestry through a captivating day tour or embark on a shopping spree in Thamel, the vibrant tourist hub. Here you'll find an abundance of unique souvenirs like handicrafts and artwork, perfect keepsakes to bring back home.
To commemorate your successful Lhotse climb, a celebratory farewell dinner is planned. As you savor a delicious meal, be mesmerized by a traditional dance performance by local artists. This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your incredible journey and share stories with your fellow climbers.
Feeling the urge to extend your Himalayan adventure? The option is yours! Simply send an email to inquire about extending your stay and explore further breathtaking experiences.
To commemorate your successful Lhotse climb, a celebratory farewell dinner is planned. As you savor a delicious meal, be mesmerized by a traditional dance performance by local artists. This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your incredible journey and share stories with your fellow climbers.
Feeling the urge to extend your Himalayan adventure? The option is yours! Simply send an email to inquire about extending your stay and explore further breathtaking experiences.
Your Lhotse adventure must come to an end. The day of departure arrives, and we at [Expedition company name] want to thank you for joining us on this incredible climb. It's been a privilege getting to know you. We hope this journey has been filled with unforgettable memories. We'll handle any last-minute preparations, and our representative will ensure you reach Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your flight. Safe travels and a pleasant journey home! Bon voyage!
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Cost Includes
- 1:1 Sherpa to climber ratio and 1:4 leader to client ratio to assist during climb
- 4 bottled oxygen with use of latest mask and regulator
- Nepalese government royalty fees for Lhotse.
- All expedition organizational requirements
- Island Peak climb for acclimatization
- Service of base camp manager and climbing sirdars
- Satellite communication system at base camp but nominal charge for use
- Radio set for communication between camps
- Meals at base camp and higher camps during expedition
- Personal tents at BC, high tents, kitchen tents, dining tents, shower tents, toilet tents, store tents, cooking utensils and more for your comfort.
- 6 nights accommodation at Kathmandu Guest House with breakfast on deluxe room
- Meals (B,L,D) and accommodation during trek upto BC and back to Lukla after expedition
- Ktm-Lukla-Ktm airfare
- Staffs wages, allowances with their insurance
- Common climbing equipment
- Porterage of climbing equipment up to base camp and back to Lukla after expedition
- Khumbu icefall route fee
- Liaison officer daily wages and fees
- Applicable national park fees and local taxes
- 2 waterproof duffel bags
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Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Custom for bringing any expedition goods
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal clothing and equipment
- Insurance (Mandatory)
- Summit bonus
- Gratuities for staff
- Personal expenses
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