Lobuche Peak Climbing

Arrival and Welcome in Kathmandu
Sole Encounters Trekking will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After settling in, you’ll meet your guide to discuss trip details, followed by a welcome dinner. Overnight stay in Kathmandu. If you need any help with activities or want to hire or buy trekking and climbing gear, our team is ready to assist you.

About Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu Valley, Nepal’s cultural heart, is home to Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan-cities rich in history, temples, palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Surrounded by hills and natural parks such as Shivapuri, the valley offers a blend of cultural heritage and stunning mountain scenery.

Flight Operations Update: Ramechhap Airport
Due to congestion at Kathmandu’s TIA, domestic flights to Lukla now often depart from Ramechhap Airport during peak seasons (available fly from kathmandu- lukla-kathmandu direct to 25th September and till 15th March). Ramechhap is a 6-hour scenic drive east of Kathmandu, with basic guesthouse and tented camp accommodations available. Road conditions can be challenging, so always check current travel information with your agency or local authorities.

If needed, this day is for finalizing your gear-make sure you have all the necessary trekking and Lobuche Peak climbing equipment. You can leave any extra items in hotel storage to lighten your load. Carry only what’s essential for the trek and climb ahead.

The journey to Ramechhap involves a scenic 6-hour drive (about 135 km / 84 miles) through beautiful mountainous terrain, offering stunning views of hills and valleys along the way.

Upon arrival at Ramechhap (elevation 474 meters / 1555 feet), you will settle in for the night at a comfortable glamping site in nearby Manthali, where you can relax and prepare for the flight to Lukla the next day. Before resting, you’ll discuss the flight schedule and final trip details with your guide to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

Today, adventure begins with an early morning flight from Ramechhap to Lukla (2,840m / 9,318ft), a scenic 20 minute journey offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival at Lukla Airport, you’ll meet your trekking crew, organize your gear, and begin the trek toward Phakding (2,610m / 8,562ft). The trail today is a mix of gentle downhill, flat paths, and short ascents, winding through lush pine forests and charming Sherpa villages. You’ll cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, with views of mountains like Kongde Ri and Thamserku adding to the beauty of the route.

After about three hours of walking, you’ll arrive in Phakding, a peaceful village set by the riverside. It’s known for its warm hospitality, scenic setting, and a historic monastery that offers a serene spot to explore if you arrive early. Staying overnight in one of the comfortable local teahouses helps you ease into the trek and start your acclimatization process.

Please note, if your flight from Ramechhap is delayed due to weather, there is the option of taking a shared helicopter to Lukla for approximately $500 per person, or chartering a helicopter for around $2,600, which accommodates up to five passengers.

Today, you’ll trek from Phakding (2,610m / 8,562ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft), a journey of about 6-7 hours covering 10-12 km. The trail winds through pine forests and traditional Sherpa villages, crossing several thrilling suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. Along the way, stop for a morning tea break, refill your water, and enjoy lunch before the final steep uphill climb to Namche. On clear days, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Everest and views of Thamserku. Namche is a historic Sherpa trading center and now a vibrant hub for trekkers. You’ll stay here for two nights to acclimatize.

Today is an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft). To help your body adjust to the altitude, you’ll hike to the Everest Viewpoint at around 3,880m (12,730ft). The round-trip hike takes about 4 hours, covering 5-6 km. The trail includes a mix of gentle uphill and short downhill sections, with some steeper parts toward the viewpoint.

Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful rhododendron forests and small Sherpa settlements, with spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. From the viewpoint, you’ll enjoy panoramic sights of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and more.

This hike gains about 400m in altitude and is important for safe acclimatization. After soaking in the mountain scenery, you’ll return to Namche Bazaar to rest. In the afternoon, you can explore the Sherpa Museum, local markets, or simply relax. This day is key to preparing your body for higher elevations ahead.

Today, leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail follows ridges with stunning Himalayan views. After descending to Phunki Tenga, you’ll climb steeply uphill to reach Tengboche. The hike takes about 6–7 hours with an altitude gain of around 500m. Stop for lunch at a local teahouse in Phunki Tenga, offering a great rest and beautiful scenery.

Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region, is a major highlight. Founded in 1916 and rebuilt in 1989 after a fire, it remains a vital spiritual center for Sherpas. You might witness ceremonies like the Mani Rimdu Festival in October or November. The monastery offers breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse and is open daily from 6 AM to 5 PM with a small entrance fee.

The trail features a mix of uphill, downhill, and flat sections, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and local culture before continuing your trek.

Today’s trail has uphill, downhill, and flat sections, so walking slowly is key to adjust to the altitude. You’ll enjoy a morning tea break at Debuche and stop for lunch in Pangboche, the last permanent village on the route. Along the way, you’ll cross several suspension bridges and take in stunning mountain views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks.

The hike takes 6-7 hours, covering about 10-11 km with an altitude gain of around 550m.

Dingboche, at 4,410m, is a peaceful village known for high-altitude farming and stone-walled fields. You’ll stay here for two nights to acclimatize. Historically, it served as an overnight stop for climbers heading to Island Peak and Everest Base Camp. The following day includes a short acclimatization hike and rest.

Today, to help your body adjust to the altitude, you’ll take a short hike to either Nagarjun Hill (5,100 m / 16,732 ft) or Chhukung Valley (4,730 m / 15,518 ft). Both trails offer stunning panoramic views of towering peaks like Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and surrounding snow-capped mountains. The hike takes about 3-4 hours with an altitude gain of 300–700 meters (984–2,297 feet), depending on the route. Along the way, you’ll cross rocky paths and alpine meadows, enjoying breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Be sure to carry layered clothing to adapt to changing weather-warm jackets, windproof layers, gloves, hats, and sun protection are essential. Also bring enough water, snacks, and sturdy trekking boots. After the hike, you’ll return to Dingboche (4,410 m / 14,469 ft) to rest, explore the village, and prepare for higher elevations. This hike-high, sleep-low approach helps your body adjust gradually to reduced oxygen, lowering the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring a safer, more comfortable ascent.

Today’s trail gradually ascends through alpine terrain with stunning views of Taboche (6,495 m / 21,320 ft) and Cholatse (6,440 m / 21,132 ft). After crossing a glacial stream, you’ll stop at Thukla (4,620 m / 15,157 ft) for a break or lunch before a steep climb to the Trekkers’ Memorial at Thukla Pass (4,830 m / 15,846 ft), honoring climbers lost on Everest. The trail then continues over rocky, exposed paths as the air thins and temperatures drop, leading to Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft), a small, wind-swept settlement near the Khumbu Glacier. Walking time is 5-6 hours with an altitude gain of about 500 m (1,640 ft). Once in Lobuche, rest and prepare for the exciting Everest Base Camp hike planned for the next day.

Today marks the most exciting part of the trek as you reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). The journey from Lobuche, situated at 4,940 meters (16,207 feet), to Gorak Shep at 5,164 meters (16,942 feet), is gradual but challenging, traversing rocky and glacial terrain. After a short break in Gorak Shep, you’ll continue slowly through the Khumbu Glacier to reach Base Camp. The round trip covers about 13 to 15 kilometers and takes 8 to 9 hours, with an altitude gain of approximately 450 meters (1,476 feet). Everest Base Camp has been the historic staging point for expeditions since the 1950s. You’ll have around 30 to 40 minutes to explore, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall before returning to Gorak Shep for the night. Accommodation here is basic, with cold rooms, shared toilets, and no tap water, so it’s essential to buy bottled water and carry your own snacks. This moment is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a highlight of your trek.

Start early from Gorak Shep (5,140 m / 16,864 ft) for a hike up to Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), a famous viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the Khumbu Glacier. The steep, rocky trail takes about 2-3 hours to ascend and requires a slow, steady pace due to the high altitude. After enjoying sunrise or sunset views at the summit, descend back to Gorak Shep for rest and a meal. Then trek for 2-3 hours to Lobuche (4,940 m / 16,207 ft) over mixed terrain of rocky flats and glacial moraine. The full day covers roughly 7–8 hours of walking and about 12–13 km in distance. In Lobuche, rest and meet your climbing guide to prepare for the next stage to Lobuche High Camp. Always carry water, energy bars, warm layers, and go at a comfortable pace to stay safe and enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

The trek from Lobuche (4,940 m) to Lobuche High Camp (5,600 m / 18,368 ft) is about 3–4 hours over a mix of rocky, uneven, and sometimes steep terrain. The trail has some uphill sections with occasional flat stretches, requiring careful, slow pacing due to the altitude and changing weather. We provide comfortable camping with full crew support at a beautiful campsite offering stunning mountain views. Make sure to bring appropriate gear for varying temperatures and always prioritize safety—stay in close contact with your guide and climbing team. Before the climb, discuss your readiness, safety measures, and what gear or supplies you’ll need. Meals and drinks are provided by our camping crew. If you’re not feeling well, don’t push for the summit; we include an extra contingency day in the itinerary for your safety and flexibility.

A contingency day is crucial for safety on this trip. It provides extra time to rest if you don’t feel well or need better acclimatization. It also allows for delays due to bad weather like storms or heavy snow, which can make climbing unsafe. This day ensures you don’t rush, helping prevent altitude sickness and accidents. It gives guides time to assess conditions and keep you safe, making sure you’re ready to continue the climb when it’s safe.

Today is your Lobuche East summit day (6,119m / 20,070ft). You will start early from High Camp at 5,600m (18,368ft), trekking about 3-4 hours uphill to the summit. The trail is steep and rocky with stunning Himalayan views. Make sure you have enough gear, food, and drinks to stay warm, energized, and hydrated throughout the climb. After summiting, descend approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) via Thukla Pass at 4,620m (15,157ft) down to Pheriche at 4,240m (13,911ft), which usually takes 4-5 hours. You can rest at the Thukla teahouse if needed, but descending to Pheriche helps your body recover faster from altitude. Always follow your guide’s instructions for safety. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and focus on your wellbeing to ensure a safe and successful summit day.

Today, you descend from Pheriche (4,240m / 13,911ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,286ft), covering about 15 km (9.3 miles) in 6-7 hours of walking. The trail features a mix of downhill, gentle uphill, and flat sections, passing through scenic villages like Pangboche and Tengboche, with beautiful views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and lush valleys. As you approach Namche, the trail becomes more familiar and lively. Back in Namche, you can enjoy good food, drinks, and shopping, feeling almost like being back home. It’s a great place to rest, celebrate your achievements, and enjoy the vibrant Sherpa town once again.

The trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla takes around 7-8 hours, covering a distance of approximately 19–22km. The trail includes a mix of uphill, downhill, and flat sections, with varied terrain that passes through villages and crosses suspension bridges. Along the way, you will encounter beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

While trekking, you may be disrupted by donkeys and mules carrying goods along the narrow paths, so it’s essential to walk safely and give them space to pass. Be mindful of your surroundings to avoid accidents.

You will stop for lunch on the way, usually at a teahouse along the trail, before continuing on to Lukla. After reaching Lukla, enjoy a celebratory dinner and drinks with your trekking crew. If you wish, you can share tips and thank them for their hard work. Your guide will also inform you about your flight time back to Kathmandu the following day.

After your trek, you will take a flight from Lukla to Ramechhap, offering scenic views of the Himalayas. From Ramechhap, you'll drive back to Kathmandu, which takes about 5-6 hours. Upon arrival, you can freshen up, change into clean clothes, and then explore Thamel, the bustling tourist hub of Kathmandu.

Please note, flights to Lukla from Kathmandu are typically available until September 25th. After this date, flights will be diverted to Ramechhap due to congestion at Kathmandu’s airport, especially during the spring season (March 15th onward).

You’ll also receive a certificate of achievement for completing the trek. Enjoy your time in Kathmandu before your final departure!

Today is a free day to enjoy Kathmandu at your own pace. You may visit iconic sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, or Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Or simply rest, relax, and enjoy shopping in Thamel for souvenirs, local crafts, and delicious food.

If you'd like to join any optional tours or activities, feel free to contact us—we can arrange a guide and transport at an additional cost.

Please also let us know your international flight details so we can arrange your airport transfer. If you're planning to stay extra days in Kathmandu, we’re happy to assist with accommodation or activities.
We're always here to help-thank you for trekking with us!

As your journey comes to an end, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. It's time to say goodbye, but we hope this won’t be the last time our paths cross. We thank you for choosing us to be part of your unforgettable adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more incredible experiences in the future.

Safe travels and see you again soon!