LOBUCHE PEAK CLIMBING 9 DAYS
LOBUCHE PEAK CLIMBING 9 DAYS
Lobuche Peak Climbing is an incredibly challenging adventure of 9 days, which will certainly cater to what you are looking for: high-altitude trekking, technical climbing, and panoramic views of the great Himalayan peaks. Lobuche East at 6,119 m is a classic alpine climb in the heart of the Everest region and is an attractive peak, offering a variety of existing routes and a wide range of new lines.
The adventure starts with the thrilling 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering a dramatic arrival on one of the world's greatest mountain airports. You will trek from Lukla to Phakding and follow the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages.
Day 2, trail climbs to Namche Bazaar (3,440m.), Sherpa village with a bunch of traders. You’ll have a supplementary day for acclimatization here, taking a shorter hike to Everest View Hotel or the museum above, to give your body time to adjust to the altitude.
From Namche, the trail then heads to Pangboche (3,930m), one of the oldest spiritual villages in the area. There’s a separate acclimatization climb thrown in, this one up to Ama Dablam Base Camp, for some epic, close-up views of the iconic peak and a chance to start feeling more at home at higher elevations.
The hike takes you to Thukla and on to Lobuche High Camp (5,600m), where you’ll go back over climbing skills and check gear. On summit day, you’ll begin early, climbing snow and ice walls using fixed ropes and wearing crampons. Standing on the top of the Lobuche Peak offers you the splendid views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and so forth.
You descend to Thukla and continue to Pheriche the next day after the summit. From here, a spectacular helicopter flight retraces your steps to Lukla, sparing you the long downhill walks. Then you catch a regular plane back to Kathmandu and finish off an incomparable Himalayan mountaineering trip.
It's perfect for experienced trekkers looking for a hard summit and comfortable acclimatization with a safe, fast final descent by helicopter.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly to Lukla (2,804m) & Trek to Phakding (2,640m) Duration: 4–5 hours.
Your journey begins with a scenic 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, offering jaw-dropping views of the Himalayan range. Upon landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, your trek kicks off with a gentle descent through pine forests and traditional Sherpa settlements. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, leading to the charming village of Phakding, where you’ll spend your first night in the mountains.
Day 2 : Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) Duration: 5–6 hours.
Today’s trek leads through rhododendron forests, across suspension bridges, and into Sagarmatha National Park. The trail climbs steeply in the final stretch, but your efforts are rewarded with your arrival in Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Khumbu region. It’s a hub for trekkers, climbers, and local Sherpas, with cafes, shops, and stunning mountain views.
Day 3 : Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar.
Spend the day adjusting to the altitude with light hikes to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village, offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Proper acclimatization here significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
Day 4 : Trek from Namche to Pangboche (3,930m) Duration: 5–6 hours.
Trek through highland forests and past the famed Tengboche Monastery. You’ll continue to Pangboche, one of the oldest and most spiritual Sherpa villages, with impressive views of Ama Dablam and nearby peaks.
Day 5 : Acclimatization Day at Pangboche – Hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,600m)
A second acclimatization day includes a hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp, offering awe-inspiring close-up views of this iconic peak. The trail is peaceful and helps further prepare your body for the upcoming high-altitude climb.
Day 6 : Trek from Pangboche to Thukla (4,620m) Duration: 5–6 hours.
The trek continues upward as the landscape becomes more rugged and alpine. After crossing rivers and glacial valleys, you arrive at Thukla, a key resting point before reaching High Camp.
Day 7 : Trek from Thukla to Lobuche High Camp (5,600m) Duration: 5–6 hours.
Today, leave the main trail and head to Lobuche High Camp, navigating rocky paths and moraines. Upon arrival, you'll rest, review climbing gear, and attend a safety briefing in preparation for the summit.
Day 8 : Summit Lobuche Peak (6,119m) & Descend to Thukla Duration: 9–10 hours.
Start your summit push before dawn with headlamps lighting the icy trail. Using crampons, ropes, and ice axes, you’ll climb steep snow-covered ridges. Reaching the summit of Lobuche East offers spectacular 360° views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and beyond. After celebrating your achievement, you descend carefully back to Thukla.
Day 9 : Trek to Pheriche, Helicopter Fly to Lukla & Flight to Kathmandu.
Enjoy a final morning trek to Pheriche, where a helicopter will pick you up for a scenic flight back to Lukla. From Lukla, board your regular flight to Kathmandu, bringing your incredible Himalayan expedition to a close.
SERVICES
Costs Included in Your Package
- Domestic Airport Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Private car or jeep transfer from/to the airport for your convenience and comfort.
- Meals During the Trek: Three nutritious meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), including fresh fruit served each evening after dinner.
- Scenic Helicopter Transfer: Shared helicopter flight from Pheriche to Lukla, offering a spectacular aerial view of the Himalayas.
- Accommodation: Comfortable trekking lodge (tea house) stays during the trek, and tented camp accommodation during the Lobuche Peak climbing session.
- Permits and Entry Fees: All necessary paperwork, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Flights and Transfers: Round-trip domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu via Ramechhap) with private airport transfers and applicable airport taxes.
- Experienced Trekking and Climbing Guide: An English-speaking, government-licensed guide who is friendly, knowledgeable, well-trained, and fully insured, covering all his expenses, including salary, food, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- Lobuche Peak Climbing Permit: Official permit for climbing Lobuche Peak.
- Sherpa Porters: Reliable, helpful Sherpa porters (one for every two trekkers) equipped with proper safety and walking gear. Their salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance are covered.
- Medical Support: A Comprehensive first aid kit is available throughout the trek for your safety and peace of mind.
- Emergency Helicopter Arrangement: Coordination of emergency helicopter evacuation (covered by your personal travel insurance, if required).
- Essential Trekking Gear (On Loan): Complimentary use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (to be returned after the trek).
- Exclusive Souvenirs: Sherpa Expedition & Trekking T-shirt and a trip achievement certificate upon successful trip completion.
- Health Monitoring: Daily use of an oxygen meter to monitor your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate—crucial for detecting early signs of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Assistant Guide: An additional assistant guide will be provided for groups of 8 or more trekkers to ensure safety and personalized attention.
- Government Fees and Taxes: All government taxes and official expenses are included.
Costs Excluded from Your Package
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu are not included.
- Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu: Accommodation in Kathmandu before or after the trek is not covered.
- Nepal Entry Visa: The Nepal visa fee is not included. Visas are available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport:
- $30 USD for 15 days
- $50 USD for 30 days
- $125 USD for 90 days
- Travel & Medical Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory for trekking and climbing).
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal spending, such as souvenirs, laundry, and snacks.
- Drinks & Snacks During the Trek: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (including tea, coffee, soup, hot chocolate, cocoa, bottled water), as well as any extra food items purchased along the way or at tea houses (e.g., additional meals, snacks, desserts like chocolate, cake, pudding, etc.).
- Extras at Tea Houses: Charges for hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging at trekking lodges are not included.
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and drivers (tipping is customary and appreciated).
- Excess Baggage Fees: Extra baggage over 10 kg on the Lukla flight may incur additional fees.
- Early Return from Trek: In case of an early return due to illness or any unforeseen reason, the cost of unused services (flights, accommodations, meals, etc.) is non-refundable. Any additional expenses in Kathmandu (hotel, meals, etc.) will be your responsibility.
EQUIPMENTS
You’ll carry your personal gear and share some group equipment, so pack light with layered, weather-appropriate clothing—avoid cotton and choose breathable, insulating fabrics. A windproof duffle (provided and carried by porters) and water are included. Non-trekking items can be stored in Kathmandu. Sherpa Expedition & Trekking supplies all essential expedition gear.
Upper Body:
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking and quick-drying shirts and thermal tops.
- Insulation Layers: Fleece or down jackets to provide warmth.
- Waterproof Shell Jacket: A durable and breathable jacket to protect against wind and rain.
- Softshell Jacket: A lightweight and water-resistant jacket for added protection.
- Climbing Harness: A comfortable harness to secure yourself to the rope.
- Helmet: A strong and well-fitting helmet to protect your head from falling objects.
- Gloves: A combination of lightweight liner gloves and insulated gloves or mittens for warmth and dexterity.
- Buff or Neck Gaiter: To protect your neck and face from cold and wind.
- Sunglasses: Polarized and UV-protected sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun and snow glare.
- Goggles: Ski or mountaineering goggles for added eye protection in extreme weather conditions.
Lower Body:
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking and quick-drying thermal bottoms.
- Insulation Layers: Fleece or insulated pants for added warmth.
- Waterproof Shell Pants: Durable and breathable pants to protect against wind, rain, and snow.
- Softshell Pants: Lightweight and water-resistant pants for added protection.
- Mountaineering Boots: Sturdy and insulated boots designed for snow and ice.
- Crampons: Attachable spikes that provide traction on icy terrain.
- Gaiters: Waterproof and breathable gaiters to keep snow out of your boots.
- Socks: A combination of moisture-wicking liner socks and thick, warm mountaineering socks.
Other Essential Items:
- Backpack: A spacious and sturdy backpack to carry your climbing gear and personal belongings.
- Sleeping Bag: A warm and lightweight sleeping bag that can withstand sub-zero temperatures.
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable trekking poles for added stability and support.
- Headlamp: Essential for climbing in low-light or dark conditions.
- Water Bottles: Insulated water bottles to keep your water from freezing.
- Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun at high altitudes.
- First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit with essential medications and supplies.
- Climbing Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and other lightweight snacks for quick fuel during the climb.
It is important to invest in high-quality gear and ensure that everything fits properly and is in good condition. Additionally, consult with experienced climbers or a professional guide to ensure you have all the necessary gear and receive proper training on how to use it effectively and safely.
Note: Essential climbing equipment, including an ice axe, crampons, climbing boots, harness, helmet, safety rope, ascender (jumar), and carabiner, can be hired in Dongboche. The total cost is approximately USD 120 per person for a complete set.
GOOD TO KNOW
📆 Best Time to Climb
The ideal seasons for Lobuche Peak Climbing are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and safer climbing conditions. Avoid the monsoon and winter months due to rain, snow, and unpredictable weather.
💪 Required Fitness Level
Lobuche Peak is a challenging climb that demands excellent physical fitness and endurance. Daily treks of 5–8 hours and a high-altitude summit push require stamina, strength, and preparation. Training beforehand is strongly recommended.
🧗♂️ Technical Climbing Skills
Although considered a “trekking peak,” Lobuche East involves technical sections including steep snow, ice, and rock. You’ll need to use crampons, ropes, harnesses, and ice axes. Prior experience with basic mountaineering is highly beneficial, though your guide will offer a safety briefing and training at High Camp.
⛰️ Altitude and Acclimatization
With a summit at 6,119 meters, altitude sickness is a risk. This 9-day itinerary includes two acclimatization days—one in Namche Bazaar and another with a hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp—helping your body adjust gradually to the elevation.
🚁 Helicopter Descent
One of the highlights of this itinerary is the helicopter flight from Pheriche to Lukla after your summit. This saves time, reduces physical strain, and provides a stunning aerial view of the Khumbu Valley.
🛂 Permits Required
You will need the following permits:
Lobuche Peak Climbing Permit (via Nepal Mountaineering Association)
Sagarmatha National Park Permit
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
These are usually arranged by your trekking agency before the trip begins.
🧳 Packing Essentials
Bring technical gear (or rent in Kathmandu), including climbing boots, crampons, down jacket, sleeping bag, harness, helmet, and layered clothing for cold, high-altitude weather.
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FAQS
How difficult is Lobuche Peak Climbing?
Lobuche Peak is considered a moderately technical trekking peak. It involves glacier travel, steep snow climbs, and rope work. Prior high-altitude trekking experience and good physical fitness are essential.
Do I need previous mountaineering experience?
Yes, having basic mountaineering skills—like using crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes—is highly recommended. The route has sections that require technical climbing ability, especially near the summit.
What is the altitude of Lobuche Peak?
The summit of Lobuche East stands at 6,119 meters (20,075 ft) above sea level. It offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and surrounding peaks.
How many acclimatization days are included?
The 9-day itinerary includes two acclimatization days: one in Namche Bazaar and another with a hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp from Pangboche. These are crucial for a safe and successful ascent.
When is the best time to climb?
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the mountain conditions are favorable for climbing.
What kind of permits are required?
You will need:
NMA climbing permit for Lobuche Peak
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
TIMS card
Your guide or trekking company usually arranges all required permits.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in teahouses during the trek (basic but comfortable lodges) and tented camps at Lobuche High Camp. These are well-equipped for climbers.
What gear do I need to bring?
Essential gear includes climbing boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, down jacket, and other cold-weather trekking essentials. Most items can be rented in Kathmandu if needed.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes, you must have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, climbing, and helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies.
How do we return after the summit?
After summiting, you descend to Pheriche. From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic helicopter flight to Lukla, followed by a regular flight back to Kathmandu, making for a comfortable and efficient return.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 896 Reviews
Reena Kuhrram
United States
September 17, 2024
Wonderful Experience from Start to Finish
I had a wonderful experience trekking to Everest Base Camp with Sherpa Expedition and Teams. The level of professionalism and care was evident from the start. Our guides were excellent at facilitating our acclimatization and ensuring everyone was in good spirits. The breathtaking landscapes and the warm hospitality in the teahouses made the trek unforgettable. I felt a true sense of camaraderie with fellow trekkers, all thanks to the fantastic atmosphere the Sherpa team created.
Daniella Garcia
Austria
September 2, 2024
Unforgettable Journey
My trek to Everest Base Camp with Sherpa Expedition Teams was nothing short of magical. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the journey. The breathtaking views, especially of Khumbu Glacier, left me in awe. Every meal was delicious, and the teahouses were cozy. I felt genuinely supported every step of the way. I highly recommend Sherpa Expedition for anyone seeking an adventure of a lifetime!
Laurence Fang
United States
August 29, 2024
Epic Adventure!
Trekking with Sherpa Expedition and Teams was an epic adventure. Their expertise in organizing the trek was apparent, and our guide was a wealth of knowledge. The trek itself was challenging yet thrilling, with stunning views that took my breath away. I felt safe and supported throughout, and the local culture added an enriching layer to the experience. Reaching Everest Base Camp was a dream realized. I wholeheartedly recommend this team for anyone looking for an incredible trek!
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