Lhotse Expedition
Overview
Mount Lhotse Expedition offers a thrilling and challenging adventure to the summit of the world's fourth-highest mountain, located in the iconic Khumbu region of Nepal. Towering at an elevation of 8,516 meters (27,939 feet), Lhotse lies just south of Mount Everest and is connected to it via the South Col. The name "Lhotse" means "South Peak" in Tibetan, reflecting its geographical position.
Known for its massive south face, one of the steepest and most dramatic in the Himalayas, Lhotse attracts experienced mountaineers seeking a serious climbing challenge. The mountain was first successfully summited on May 18, 1956, by a Swiss expedition led by Ernst Reiss and Fritz Luchsinger.
Highlights
🏔️ Lhotse – The South Peak
- 4th highest mountain in the world (8,516 m / 27,939 ft)
- Notable for its proximity and route connection to Mount Everest
- Famous for its steep and iconic south face
🌲 Sagarmatha National Park
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Khumbu region
- Home to Mount Everest, Lhotse, and numerous other towering peaks
- Rich biodiversity: snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahrs, musk deer, and a wide variety of birdlife
- Culturally vibrant Sherpa communities with ancient monasteries and traditions
⛰️ Khumbu Himalaya Range
- Part of the Mahalangur Himal, which includes Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse
- Renowned for its scenic beauty, deep valleys, and glacial lakes
- Historic region that witnessed the first ascent of Everest in 1953
- Gateway to the legendary Everest Base Camp and high-altitude mountaineering
Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take this day to rest and prepare for the incredible journey ahead.
Day 02:Expedition Briefing at the Department of Tourism
Today, you’ll attend an official expedition briefing at the Department of Tourism. This includes a detailed presentation of the climbing plan, safety measures, and regulations. Meet fellow climbers and your expedition leaders.
Day 03:Equipment Check, Shopping, and Final Preparations
Ensure all gear is in top condition. Any missing or last-minute items can be purchased in Kathmandu. The day is also used to finalize logistics and packing before heading to the mountains.
Day 04:Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding/Manjo (2,849 m) – Approx. 6 hrs
Board a scenic flight to Lukla (2,840 m), gateway to the Everest region. Begin your trek through lush forest trails and traditional Sherpa villages, arriving in Phakding or Manjo after 6 hours of gentle hiking.
Day 05:Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,435 m) – Approx. 7 hrs
Follow the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and enter Sagarmatha National Park. After a steep ascent, reach the bustling mountain town of Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital of the region.
Day 06:Acclimatization Day – Hike to Everest View Hotel
Take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) to aid acclimatization. Enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Return to Namche for overnight.
Day 07:Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m) – Approx. 6 hrs
Ascend through alpine forests and cross beautiful valleys to reach Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, one of the most spiritual landmarks in the Khumbu region.
Day 08:Trek to Dingboche (4,320 m) – Approx. 5 hrs
Continue along the Imja River, passing through Pangboche village. The trail opens up into the Imja Valley as you approach the windswept meadows of Dingboche.
Day 09:Acclimatization Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m)
This rest day involves a steep hike to Nangkartshang Peak, offering spectacular views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Island Peak. Return to Dingboche for a well-earned rest.
Day 10:Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m) – Approx. 7 hrs
Trek through the rugged alpine landscape, passing memorials for fallen climbers. A slow but steady ascent brings you to the high-altitude village of Lobuche.
Day 11:Trek to Gorakshep (5,180 m) – Approx. 5 hrs
Make your way to Gorakshep, the final settlement before reaching base camp. The trail offers incredible views of Pumori and the surrounding peaks.
Day 12:Trek to Lhotse Base Camp (5,364 m) – Approx. 4 hrs
Follow the glacier trail toward Lhotse Base Camp. Once you arrive, settle into expedition life with tented accommodation at the foot of this towering Himalayan giant.
Day 13–25: Base Camp Setup and Acclimatization
Spend these days preparing for the ascent. Set up camp infrastructure, attend climbing briefings, practice technical skills, and complete acclimatization hikes to higher elevations.
Day 26–48: Rotation Climbs – Camps I, II, III and Back (Full Board, Tents)
Begin your rotation climbs through progressively higher camps to condition your body for the summit push. Climb from Base Camp to Camp I, Camp II, and Camp III, then descend to rest and recover.
Day 49–61: Summit Push – Lhotse Summit (8,516 m) and Return
Await the ideal weather window, then begin your final ascent to the summit of Lhotse. Stand on the world’s fourth-highest peak, savor the triumph, and return safely to base camp.
Day 62: Dismantle Camp and Pack Up
Take down tents, organize gear, and clean the campsite to leave no trace. Prepare for your journey back down the valley.
Day 63: Trek to Pheriche (4,220 m) – Approx. 7 hrs
Descend through familiar landscapes to the beautiful village of Pheriche, offering a more relaxed altitude and comfortable lodging.
Day 64: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,435 m) – Approx. 7 hrs
Retrace your steps back to Namche Bazaar, enjoying the warmer air and lush scenery as you descend.
Day 65: Trek to Lukla (2,840 m) – Approx. 8 hrs
The final leg of the trek leads you back to Lukla. Celebrate the completion of your expedition with your team.
Day 66: Fly Back to Kathmandu (1,300 m)
Take an early morning flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a hot shower and well-deserved rest.
Day 67: Equipment Return and Dry Cleaning – Free Day
Return any rented equipment and get your gear cleaned. Enjoy leisure time exploring Kathmandu or relaxing.
Day 68: Certification Day – Final Briefing
Visit the Department of Tourism to receive your official summit certificate and attend a debriefing session.
Day 69: Final Departure
Our team will escort you to the airport for your final departure. Fly home with unforgettable memories of your Lhotse expedition.