lobuche-climbing

Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak Climbing

  • duration 19 days
  • from usd 3,390
  • difficulty Hard
  • best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
  • max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 20,075 feet on the summit of Lobuche East

trip overview

Experience the ultimate Himalayan adventure combining the legendary Everest Base Camp trek with the technical challenge of summiting Lobuche East Peak. This comprehensive 19-day expedition takes you to the foot of the world’s highest mountain while achieving your first major technical climbing summit above 6,000 meters.

Our meticulously planned journey begins with the iconic trek through the Khumbu Valley, allowing optimal acclimatization while experiencing authentic Sherpa culture and breathtaking mountain vistas. After reaching Everest Base Camp and witnessing sunrise from Kala Patthar, the expedition transitions into serious mountaineering with the technical ascent of Lobuche East Peak at 6,119 meters.

Lobuche East offers the perfect introduction to high-altitude technical climbing with an Alpine PD+ difficulty rating. The summit requires mountaineering skills including crampon use, ice axe techniques, and rope work on steep snow and ice terrain. Standing atop Lobuche East provides unparalleled 360-degree views of the world’s highest peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam.

This isn’t just a trek—it’s a complete mountaineering education that transforms ambitious trekkers into technically skilled climbers ready for even greater Himalayan challenges. Return home with the achievement of reaching Everest Base Camp and successfully summiting a major Himalayan peak.

Key highlights include:

Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) where expeditions launch their summit attempts
Summiting Lobuche East Peak (6,119m/20,075ft) with technical mountaineering equipment
Witnessing sunrise over Everest from Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,545m)
Comprehensive mountaineering instruction and technical training
Trekking through Sagarmatha National Park’s protected wilderness
Visiting Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of the Khumbu region
Learning essential climbing skills including crampon use and fixed rope techniques
Strategic acclimatization through the legendary Everest region
Technical climbing on steep snow and ice terrain
360-degree panoramic views from Lobuche East summit
Complete transformation from trekker to technical mountaineer

Detailed itinerary

  • day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

    A representative of Mountain Kick will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Rest overnight at your hotel and prepare for your Himalayan adventure ahead with comprehensive trip briefing and equipment check.

    Activities: Airport transfer, hotel check-in, technical briefing, gear check

    • Accommodation: Three star Hotel
  • day 02
    Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,334ft) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,562ft)

    Your adventure begins with the spectacular flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport, famous for its dramatic mountain runway. After meeting our trekking crew and porters, begin with a gentle warm-up trek downhill through traditional Sherpa villages to Phakding.

    Note: During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights operate from Manthali Airport, requiring a 2:30 AM departure and 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu.

    Flight: 30 minutes (Kathmandu to Lukla) or 20 minutes (Manthali to Lukla) | Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy (gentle downhill with some flat sections)

    Points of Interest:

    • Tenzing-Hillary Airport (one of the world’s most dangerous airports)
    • Dudh Koshi River valley
    • Buddhist prayer wheels and mani stones
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 03
    Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    Today features the most significant elevation gain of the early trek. Cross dramatic suspension bridges and enter Sagarmatha National Park before the challenging final uphill climb to reach the gateway to the high Himalayas.

    Trek Distance: 10-12km (6-7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (significant uphill sections)

    Points of Interest:

    • Sagarmatha National Park entrance and permit check
    • Hillary Suspension Bridge crossing
    • First potential views of Mount Everest (weather permitting)
    • Namche Bazaar commercial hub of Khumbu region
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 04
    Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    Crucial altitude acclimatization rest day following the mountaineering principle of climb high, sleep low.” Take an acclimatization hike to higher elevation while returning to Namche to sleep, helping your body adapt and reducing altitude sickness risk.

    Recommended Hike: Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village | Hike Distance: 4-6km (2.5-3.7 miles) round trip | Duration: 3-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Points of Interest:

    • Everest View Hotel with panoramic mountain vistas
    • Sherpa Culture Museum and visitor center
    • Traditional Khumjung village and Hillary School
    • Shopping and cultural exploration in Namche
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 05
    Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft)

    Journey to the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region. The trail offers magnificent views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam before descending to the Dudh Koshi River and climbing through pine forests to reach Tengboche Monastery.

    Trek Distance: 10km (6.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (descent followed by steep ascent)

    Points of Interest:

    • Tengboche Monastery (established in 1916)
    • Evening prayer ceremony (timing varies by season)
    • Spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam
    • Confluence of Imja River and Dudh Koshi River
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 06
    Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft)

    Enter the higher alpine zone as you follow the Imja River valley towards Mount Everest. The landscape becomes increasingly arid above the tree line, passing through Pangboche village with its ancient monastery before reaching Dingboche.

    Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Upper Pangboche Monastery (oldest in the region)
    • Spectacular views of Ama Dablam’s south face
    • Traditional Sherpa agricultural terraces with stone walls
    • First views of higher peaks ahead
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 07
    Trek to Chukhung (4,730m/15,518ft)

    Continue following the Imja River towards the dramatic Chukhung Valley. Chukhung sits in a spectacular amphitheater surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks, placing you in the heart of the Himalayas.

    Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Points of Interest:

    • Spectacular amphitheater of peaks surrounding Chukhung
    • Mount Lhotse and Mount Nuptse from the north
    • Mount Cho Polu and Mount Baruntse from the east
    • Mount Ama Dablam from the south
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 08
    Return to Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft)

    Return to Dingboche for continued acclimatization and strategic positioning for the Everest Base Camp approach. Rest day allows recovery before the challenging high-altitude sections ahead.

    Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy (mostly downhill)

    Points of Interest:

    • Continued acclimatization at optimal altitude
    • Views of surrounding peaks
    • Rest and preparation for higher altitudes
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 09
    Trek to Gorakshep (5,164m/16,942ft) & Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft)

    Today is the highlight of the trekking portion! Trek to Gorakshep, a village sitting on a frozen lake bed, then continue to Everest Base Camp. Stand at the foot of the world’s tallest peak before returning to Gorakshep for the night.

    Trek Distance: Dingboche to Gorakshep: 8km (5 miles) | Gorakshep to EBC: 7km (4.3 miles) round trip | Trek Duration: 8-10 hours total | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Khumbu Glacier and Icefall
    • Everest Base Camp with prayer flags marking the site
    • Views of Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbutse
    • Mountaineering expeditions and base camp atmosphere
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 10
    Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,519ft) & Trek to Lobuche (4,940m/16,210ft)

    Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for sunrise views over Everest and the Khumbu Glacier. This is the highest point of the trekking portion, offering the best panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks. After the sunrise experience, descend to Lobuche village for strategic positioning before the technical climbing phase.

    Wake-up Time: 4:00-4:30 AM for sunrise hike | Trek Distance: Kala Patthar: 2km (1.2 miles) round trip | Descent to Lobuche: 5km (3.1 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours total | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (Kala Patthar), then Moderate (descent)

    Points of Interest:

    • Sunrise views from Kala Patthar best Everest viewpoint
    • Views of Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks
    • Lobuche village staging point for peak climbing
    • Proximity to memorial chortens for climbers
    • Strategic positioning for Lobuche Peak approach
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 11
    Trek to Lobuche Peak Base Camp (4,950m/16,240ft)

    Begin the technical mountaineering phase with a challenging trek through steep and rocky terrain to Lobuche Peak base camp. Upon arrival, conduct comprehensive technical briefing and equipment checks in preparation for the summit attempt.

    Trek Distance: 6km (3.7 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Challenging

    Technical Activities:

    • Comprehensive technical briefing and route planning
    • Equipment check and fitting (crampons, harness, ice axe)
    • Practice with climbing gear and safety protocols
    • Review of technical climbing techniques
    • Accommodation: Tented camp
    • Meal: Dinner
  • day 12
    Summit Lobuche East Peak (6,119m/20,075ft) & Return to Base Camp

    Summit day the culmination of your technical mountaineering expedition! Lobuche East requires technical climbing skills with an Alpine PD+ difficulty grade. The route involves steep snow and ice terrain requiring mountaineering equipment and techniques.

    Summit Start Time: 2:00-3:00 AM | Total Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) round trip from base camp | Summit Duration: 8-10 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (Technical mountaineering)

    Technical Requirements:

    • Use of crampons, ice axe, and climbing harness
    • Fixed rope sections with jumars/ascenders
    • Steep snow and ice climbing with exposure
    • Alpine PD+ grade technical terrain

    Points of Interest:

    • 360-degree panoramic views from 6,119m summit
    • Views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam
    • Technical mountaineering achievement on glaciated terrain
    • Major Himalayan peaks visible to the east
    • Accommodation: Tented camp
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 13
    Spare Day for Summit / Rest Day

    Reserve day for summit attempt in case of poor weather conditions, or rest and recovery day after successful summit. Flexibility for weather-dependent mountaineering conditions.

    Activities: Weather contingency day, rest, or celebration of summit success

    • Accommodation: Tented
    • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • day 14
    Trek to Pangboche (3,985m/13,074ft)

    Begin the triumphant return journey after achieving your mountaineering goal. Descend through challenging terrain with rewarding views of Mount Ama Dablam. Pangboche is famous for reported Yeti sightings and traditional Sherpa culture.

    Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long descent)

    Points of Interest:

    • Spectacular views of Mount Ama Dablam
    • Traditional Sherpa village culture
    • Gradual return to tree line and vegetation
    • Reflection on mountaineering accomplishment
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 15
    Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    Return to civilization through rhododendron forests back to the bustling atmosphere of Namche Bazaar. The return feels like a homecoming after the challenging high-altitude mountaineering experience.

    Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (mostly downhill)

    Points of Interest:

    • Return to bustling atmosphere of Namche Bazaar
    • Opportunity to celebrate summit success
    • Internet connectivity and modern amenities
    • Reflection on completed adventure
      •  
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 16
    Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9,334ft)

    Final day of trekking as you return to where the mountain adventure began. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through traditional Sherpa villages, now viewed with the satisfaction of having completed both Everest Base Camp and a technical summit.

    Trek Distance: 18km (11.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance with varied terrain)

    Points of Interest:

    • Final views of the Himalayan peaks
    • Traditional Sherpa villages and cultural sites
    • Celebration dinner in Lukla
    • Reflection on completed mountaineering adventure
    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 17
    Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

    Return to Kathmandu civilization after your technical mountaineering achievement. The 30-minute flight offers spectacular final views of the mountains and foothills. Morning flights are subject to weather conditions, so delays are possible.

    Flight Duration: 30 minutes (weather dependent) | Activities: Airport transfer, hotel check-in, gear return

    Note: During peak seasons, flights may operate via Ramechhap/Manthali Airport, requiring additional drive time.

    • Accommodation: Hotel
  • day 18
    Leisure Day & Farewell Dinner

    Spend the day exploring Kathmandu or relaxing after your mountaineering achievement. Visit heritage sites, shop in Thamel, or simply enjoy the comforts of city life. Celebrate your technical climbing success with a traditional farewell dinner.

    Activities: Free time, shopping, optional sightseeing, gear shopping

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast & Farewell dinner
  • day 19
    Final Departure

    Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight home. Carry with you the memories and achievement of successfully reaching Everest Base Camp and summiting Lobuche East Peak.

    Activities: Airport transfer (scheduled according to flight time)

    • Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

  • Airport transfers in private company vehicle
  • Three-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included
  • Guesthouse accommodation during trek on twin-sharing basis
  • Tented camp accommodation at Lobuche Peak Base Camp with all meals included
  • Government-licensed trekking and technical climbing guides
  • Porter service (one porter for every two trekkers) and local support staff
  • Sagarmatha National Park permits and Trekkers’ Information Management System cards
  • Lobuche Peak climbing permit and fees
  • Round-trip Kathmandu-Lukla flights with baggage allowance
  • Private vehicle transfers as per itinerary (including Manthali transfers if applicable)
  • Group technical climbing equipment including ropes, ice screws, and safety hardware
  • Comprehensive mountaineering instruction and technical training at base camp
  • Duffel bag, Mountain Kick cap and t-shirt as souvenirs
  • Traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural show
  • All government taxes, tourist fees, and official expenses

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • All meals during trek at guesthouses (available for purchase at teahouses)
  • Personal climbing equipment: mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory must cover high-altitude climbing activities and rescue up to 6,200m)
  • Personal expenses: alcohol, drinks, laundry, phone calls, internet
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Additional accommodation due to early arrival, late departure, or trip extensions
  • Helicopter rescue and emergency evacuation costs
  • Excess baggage charges at airports
  • Any services not specifically mentioned in inclusions
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
  • Hot showers and WiFi charges at higher elevations
  • Personal medication and first aid supplies
  • Travel delays due to weather conditions
  • Single room supplements (available on request for additional cost)

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu

Hotel Standard: Three-star hotel accommodation on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included

Key Facilities:

  • Private rooms with en-suite bathrooms
  • Hot showers, heating, and WiFi
  • Laundry services and restaurant
  • 24-hour front desk assistance

Upgrade Options: Four and five-star hotels available upon request for additional cost. Single rooms readily available in Kathmandu for additional charge.

During the Trek

Accommodation Type: Standard teahouse/guesthouse accommodation on twin-sharing basis

At Lower Elevations (Lukla, Namche Bazaar):

  • Basic but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets
  • Shared or attached bathroom facilities
  • Hot showers available (additional charge)
  • Common dining areas with heating
  • Electricity and limited WiFi (charges apply)

At Higher Elevations (Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorakshep):

  • More basic facilities with shared bathrooms
  • Limited hot showers and intermittent electricity
  • Common areas for meals and socializing
  • Minimal or no internet connectivity

Single Room Availability: Available at lower elevations subject to availability, but increasingly difficult to find at higher elevations. During peak seasons, single rooms may not be available at all locations.

Lobuche Peak Base Camp

Accommodation Type: High-quality expedition tents on twin-sharing basis

Camp Facilities:

  • Professional expedition tents with sleeping mats
  • Dining tent with cooking facilities
  • Toilet tent facilities
  • All meals prepared by mountain cooks included
  • Professional camp setup by experienced crew

Important Notes: Camping at 4,950m elevation with cold nighttime temperatures. No electricity or charging facilities available.

General Information

All accommodation is twin-sharing unless single supplement is paid. Facilities become more basic as elevation increases due to remote locations and logistics challenges. Hot shower and WiFi charges typically range from $2-5 per use. All arrangements subject to availability, especially during peak trekking seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How difficult is Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak?
    This expedition is rated as Very Hard, requiring exceptional fitness and previous high-altitude experience. The main challenges include:
    • High altitude (reaching up to 6,119m at Lobuche East summit)
    • Technical mountaineering skills required for Lobuche Peak
    • Long daily hiking hours (8-10 hours on summit day)
    • Extreme cold temperatures at high elevations
    • Alpine PD+ grade climbing with steep snow and ice terrain
    Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, and basic mountaineering knowledge is beneficial.
  • What technical skills are required for Lobuche East?
    Lobuche East has a difficulty grade of Alpine PD+ and requires:
    • Basic mountaineering skills (use of crampons, ice axe, harness)
    • Comfort with fixed rope sections and steep terrain
    • Physical fitness for 8-10 hour technical summit day
    • Experience with high-altitude conditions
    • Ability to climb steep snow and ice slopes
    Our guides provide technical instruction, but prior mountaineering experience is advantageous.
  • What climbing equipment is provided?
    Group Equipment Provided:
    • Climbing ropes and hardware
    • Ice screws and snow anchors
    • Group safety equipment
    Personal Equipment (Available for Rent):
    • Mountaineering boots
    • Crampons
    • Ice axe
    • Climbing harness
    • Helmet
  • What happens in case of an emergency?
    Medical Emergency Protocol:
    • Immediate descent to lower altitude if altitude sickness occurs
    • Helicopter evacuation available (weather permitting)
    • Comprehensive first aid training for all guides
    • Communication devices for emergency contact
    • Evacuation insurance mandatory for all participants
    Weather-Related Delays:
    • Flexible itinerary to accommodate weather delays
    • Extra days built into schedule for contingencies
    • Alternative routes available if conditions require
  • What physical preparation is needed?
    Training Required: 6-8 weeks of cardiovascular and strength training Experience Level: Previous multi-day trekking experience essential Medical Clearance: Consultation with doctor regarding high-altitude travel Fitness Level: Ability to hike 6-8 hours daily with a daypack
  • What about food during the expedition?
    Meals are not included during the trek portion, allowing you to purchase food at teahouses along the route. However, all meals are included during your stay at Lobuche Peak Base Camp. Tea-houses along the route offer: Breakfast Options ($8-14):
    • Porridge, muesli, or cornflake
    • Pancakes, Tibetan bread, or chapati
    • Eggs prepared in various ways
    • Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
    Lunch and Dinner Options ($12-20):
    • Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)
    • Momo (Tibetan dumplings)
    • Noodle soups and pasta dishes
    • Fried rice or noodles
    • Soups and stews
    Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended as meat storage can be unreliable at higher elevations.
  • What is the best time for this expedition?
    Spring Season (March-May): Stable weather, clear mountain views Autumn Season (September-December): Excellent visibility, dry conditions Avoid: Monsoon season (June-August) and deep winter (January-February)
  • Can the itinerary be customized?
    Customization Options:
    • Private departures with flexible start dates
    • Itinerary modifications (add/remove days)
    • Extensions to other regions
    • Accommodation upgrades where available
    • Special interest focuses (photography, culture)
    Contact us with your preferences for a customized itinerary.
  • Is travel insurance mandatory?
    Yes, comprehensive travel and rescue insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your insurance must cover:
    • High-altitude trekking and climbing activities
    • Emergency helicopter evacuation
    • Medical treatment and repatriation
    • Trip cancellation and interruption
  • How many people are in a group?
    We operate with small groups to ensure personalized attention and safety. Group sizes typically range from 2-8 people, with a maximum of 10 participants per departure.
  • What about altitude sickness?
    Our 19-day itinerary includes strategic acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to help prevent altitude sickness. We follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle and maintain conservative altitude progression. All guides are trained in altitude sickness recognition and treatment protocols.
  • What is the summit success rate for Lobuche East?
    Lobuche East has a good success rate among 6,000m peaks in Nepal, typically ranging from 75-85% for properly acclimatized climbers. Our conservative 19-day itinerary with strategic acclimatization significantly improves your chances of success.
  • How long does the summit day take?
    Summit day typically takes 8-10 hours round trip from base camp to summit and back. We start at 2:00-3:00 AM to avoid afternoon weather and return to base camp by early afternoon.
  • What are the specific technical challenges on Lobuche East?
    The main technical challenges include:
    • Steep snow and ice climbing requiring crampons
    • Fixed rope sections on exposed terrain
    • High-altitude mountaineering at 6,000m+
    • Potential rockfall and icefall hazards
    • Navigation in changing mountain conditions
  • What happens if weather is bad on summit day?
    Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions are unsafe, we will:
    • Postpone the summit attempt until conditions improve
    • Monitor weather forecasts continuously
    • Make decisions based on wind speed, visibility, and storm systems
    • Utilize our flexible itinerary to accommodate delays
  • Do I need previous technical climbing experience?
    While previous mountaineering experience is beneficial, it's not mandatory. However, you should have:
    • Experience with crampons and ice axe use
    • Comfort on steep, exposed terrain
    • Basic understanding of rope work
    • Confidence with technical equipment
    Our guides provide comprehensive instruction, but prior experience significantly improves your success rate.
  • How experienced are the climbing guides?
    Our climbing guides are highly qualified with:
    • Government-issued climbing guide licenses
    • Minimum 5+ years of peak climbing experience
    • Training in high-altitude rescue techniques
    • First aid and wilderness medical training
    • Multiple ascents of Lobuche and other 6,000m peaks
    • Fluency in English and local languages
  • Are there practice sessions before the summit attempt?
    Yes, we conduct comprehensive training at Lobuche Peak Base Camp including:
    • Crampon and ice axe technique practice
    • Fixed rope ascending and descending
    • Equipment familiarization and safety checks
    • Route briefing with detailed explanation
    • Practice on nearby terrain features
  • How cold does it get during the climb?
    Temperatures vary significantly by season and time of day:
    • Base Camp: -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) at night
    • Summit Day: -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F) with wind chill
    • Daytime: Can warm to 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) in sunshine
    Proper layering and high-quality cold weather gear are essential.
  • What communication options are available?
    Internet and telephone connections are available at most stops throughout the journey. Our guides also carry satellite phones for remote areas. Communication costs apply for personal use.
  • How much spending money should I bring?
    Approximately $50 daily in Kathmandu for meals and $45 daily during trekking for personal expenses and meals at teahouses. Costs depend on personal spending habits.
  • What visa requirements are there for Nepal?
    Tourist visas are available on arrival at Kathmandu airport. 30-day multiple entry visa costs $40, 90-day visa costs $100. Bring two passport photos and ensure 6+ months passport validity.
  • Are tips expected for guides and porters?
    Tips are not expected but appreciated for excellent service. Follow your country's tipping customs (typically 10-15% of total cost) if you choose to tip.

Essential Trip Information

Medical consultation is essential before your expedition. Consult with a doctor regarding high-altitude travel and any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, as high altitude can affect how medications work in your body. Disclose all medications to your trek leaders and guides.

Key Preparation Requirements:

  • 6-8 weeks of cardiovascular and strength training
  • Previous multi-day trekking experience essential
  • Ability to hike 6-8 hours daily with a daypack
  • Basic mountaineering skills beneficial (crampons, ice axe use)

Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and climbing activities up to 6,200m, emergency helicopter evacuation, and technical mountaineering activities.

Technical Climbing Requirements: Lobuche East has a difficulty grade of Alpine PD+ requiring basic mountaineering skills including use of crampons, ice axe, and harness. Our guides provide comprehensive technical instruction at base camp, but prior mountaineering experience is advantageous.

Safety Considerations:

  • Strategic acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche
  • Professional monitoring by experienced climbing guides
  • Weather-dependent summit attempts with safety-first approach
  • Emergency communication devices and evacuation protocols
  • Comprehensive insurance coverage required

Equipment Notes: Technical climbing equipment (crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet) available for rent in Kathmandu. Mountaineering boots and proper cold weather gear essential for summit attempt.

Flight Considerations: Lukla flights are weather-dependent and delays are common. During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights operate from Manthali Airport, requiring a 2:30 AM departure and 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu. Build flexibility into travel plans before and after the expedition.

Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-December) offer the most stable weather conditions for technical climbing.

Important Advisories:

    • Only embark on this expedition if you are in good physical condition and have had prior experience in mountain climbing
    • Please make sure you take travel insurance at home before arriving here it is mandatory and you cannot take it in Nepal
    • It is advisable that you free up a few days before and after your trip schedule for reasons beyond our control like flight delays, accidents and natural hazards
    • Please inform us and our guides if you have any medical condition that might affect your trip
    • Consult your doctor beforehand for any precautions you need to take and always carry medicines if you need them

Packing Checklist

Key items for EBC & Lobuche Peak include:

  • Layered clothing system Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to changing conditions
  • Warm sleeping bag Rated for at least -10°C (14°F)
  • Mountaineering boots For technical climbing sections on Lobuche Peak
  • Technical climbing equipment Crampons, ice axe, harness, and helmet for Lobuche summit
  • UV-protecting sunglasses For protection against intense high-altitude sun
  • Headlamp with spare batteries Essential for navigating in dark conditions and early summit starts
  • Water bottles/hydration system For maintaining proper hydration at altitude
  • Daypack For carrying daily essentials while trekking
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We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.

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