Lhotse Expedition – 54 Days

Located to the south of Mount Everest, Lhotse is the fourth-highest mountain in the world. It is connected to Everest by the Everest South Col. The Western Face is the […]

54 Days
15 - 20 KM Per Day
Tea House
Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu
Min 2 to Max 10 Pax in a group
Domestic Flight (KTM - Lukla - Kathmandu) and Private Vehicle
challenging

Highlights

  • Stunning vistas of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest and other iconic peaks.
  • A range of challenging climbing routes, like the South Col Route and West Face Route.
  • Reaching the summit of Lhotse, the fourth highest peak in the world, and savoring the thrill of this achievement.
  • Sharing the Everest Base Camp with climbers striving for the summit, fostering a unique and dynamic mountaineering atmosphere.
  • Deep immersion in Sherpa culture, offering opportunities to connect with local communities and learn about their rich traditions and lifestyle.

Overview

Located to the south of Mount Everest, Lhotse is the fourth-highest mountain in the world. It is connected to Everest by the Everest South Col. The Western Face is the most commonly used route for climbers attempting to summit Lhotse. The southern face of Lhotse is considered one of the largest mountain faces in the world, rising an impressive 3.2 kilometers over just 2.25 kilometers of horizontal distance. The Lhotse Massif includes Lhotse East (8,414m), Lhotse (8,516m), and Lhotse Shar (8,383m). The first successful ascent of Lhotse was made in 1956 by a Swiss expedition. Lhotse is situated near Tibet, and its name, “Lhotse,” means “South Peak” in the Tibetan language. Since Lhotse and Everest are located close to each other, climbers typically use the same route to the Everest South Col. From there, Everest climbers take the left path, while those heading for Lhotse follow the right.

Itinerary

If you're looking for a tailor-made trip or wish to customize this itinerary, feel free to reach out to us. We're always here to help you craft the perfect holiday experience. Contact us today!

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal, complete your visa formalities and collect your luggage. Afterward, head to the exit of the arrival hall, where your trip leader will be waiting to greet you. They will then escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Look out for a placard with "Highland Expeditions."
Day 02

Official formalities and climb preparation

These two days have been kept in Kathmandu for final preparation of Climb. Meet other team members, complete official and government formalities, final gear check and load. Upon your interest, an optional Kathmandu sightseeing can be arranged on these days. We will have a trip orientation and your trip leader will give you a brief about your climb before we head to our journey.
Day 03

Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding

After an early breakfast, we board a mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla on a STOL aircraft. The flight lasts about 30 minutes, taking us to the airstrip that Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas constructed in the mid-1960s. Our trek begins with a descent towards the Dudh Kosi River, where we join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, located just above Chaurikharka at 2713m. The walk is easy, and after passing through the small village of Ghat at 2550m, we enjoy a short walk to Phakding, where we'll stay for the night.
Day 04

Trek to Namche Bazar

We will continue our journey along the Dudhkoshi River, passing through pine forests. Along the way, we'll cross several suspension bridges and pass through small settlements like Zapute, Toktok, Benkar, and Chumoa, eventually reaching Monjo, the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park. After completing the required park formalities, we will enter the park itself. As we descend, we will reach the river, where we will cross another suspension bridge before heading towards the high Hillary Bridge, located at the foot of a hill. After crossing this bridge, we will begin the uphill climb to Namche Bazaar. From here, we’ll get a stunning view of Thamserku Mountain, and, if the weather is clear, we’ll be treated to our first sighting of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Kusum Khangru.
Day 05

Rest and Acclimatization day

Namche Bazaar is known as the gateway to the high Himalayas and serves as the main trading hub and the capital of Sherpa land. A rest day in Namche is recommended for acclimatization. During this time, a short hike to the ancient Sherpa village of Thame offers an opportunity to experience the rich Sherpa culture, or you can visit nearby villages like Khumjung, Khunde, or Khongde. Exploring the vibrant marketplace of Namche is another great option. Other notable attractions include the National Park Head Office, a museum, and several monasteries. The area is bustling with cafes, shops, bakeries, and restaurants, and also offers essential services such as a post office, hospital, and government health post. Internet access is available, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones.
Day 06

Trek to Deboche

We will walk alongside the glacial waters of the Dudh Koshi River, with stunning views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam. Our journey continues through a vibrant forest of blooming rhododendrons towards Sanasa, an area rich in wildlife, including musk deer and colorful pheasants. Sanasa marks an important junction—one path leads to the Gokyo Valley, while the other branches off toward Everest Base Camp. We’ll take a steep climb up to Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region, where we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking close-up views of the surrounding mountains. After visiting the monastery, we’ll walk through a forest of birch and rhododendrons to Deboche, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 07

Trek to Dingboche

We will descend to the Imja River before heading uphill to Pangboche (3860m) through a lush forest. In Pangboche, we will visit the monastery and admire the village's Chorten and Mani walls. The trail also provides access to the Imja Valley. From there, we will make a steep climb to Pheriche and continue on towards the Lobuche River. The final, steepest climb of the day will take us to Dingboche. Agriculture is the primary livelihood in Dingboche, where fields are surrounded by stone walls. Buckwheat, potatoes, and barley are the main crops grown here. We will spend the night in Dingboche.
Day 08

Rest and Acclimatization day

This is a day to recharge and acclimatize without simply resting. We can take a leisurely stroll through the village, striking up friendly conversations with the locals, which will offer us fascinating insights into their lifestyles and culture. As we explore, we’ll also have the chance to enjoy the stunning landscapes surrounding us and perhaps catch up on some reading. Our acclimatization gets a boost with a hike to Chhukung village, followed by a steep ascent up to Chhukung Ri at 5550m (if we’re up for it). As we reach the summit, breathless from the climb, we’ll soon realize the effort was well worth it. The breathtaking rewards are unlike anything else: the awe-inspiring views of Cho Oyu (8201m), Pumori (7161m), the towering Lhotse wall (8400m), Amadablam (6812m), Makalu (8481m), and Baruntse (7129m). These majestic peaks leave us in awe, with hearts racing as we take in the sheer beauty around us.
Day 09

Trek to Lobuche

We’ll embark on a moderate walk toward Dugla, navigating through the steep moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Our journey will lead us to Chupki Lhara, a memorial site adorned with prayer flags, honoring the memory of deceased climbers. Continuing along the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we’ll make our way to Lobuche. Along the trail, we’ll be treated to breathtaking close-up views of Pumori, Khumbutse, and other towering peaks. We’ll spend the night in Lobuche, soaking in the surrounding beauty.
Day 10

Trek to Gorekshep

The day begins with a trek along a striking crevasse between the lateral moraine of a glacier and a towering mountain. From there, a gradual ascent leads to the Changri Nup Glacier. The undulating terrain offers a dynamic and varied walk, keeping you on your toes. In the final stretch, a slight descent brings you into a stark, barren landscape with sandy moraine and a group of lodges nestled among jagged rocks, all encircled by towering mountains. This is Gorakshep, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 11

Trek to Lhotse Base Camp

Begin your climb along the Khumbu Glacier toward Everest and Lhotse Base Camp. As you approach the foot of the world’s highest peak, the breathtaking views of surrounding mountains, the Khumbu Icefall, and the glacier itself add to the awe-inspiring experience. Spend the night at Base Camp, surrounded by some of the highest peaks on Earth.
Day

Get organized, Puja Ceremony and Climbing Clinics

Settle in and make yourself comfortable, as this will be your home for the next four weeks. On an auspicious date according to the Tibetan calendar, a puja ceremony will take place, seeking blessings for a safe journey. Additionally, training will be held at Base Camp, in the ice seracs of the lower Khumbu Glacier, to check climbers' equipment and review climbing and rescue techniques.
Day

Climb Lobuche East

Our first phase of acclimatization begins with a climb to Lobuche East. This ascent not only aids in better acclimatization but also serves as an ideal training base for Everest. Lobuche East Climb Plan: Day 1: Trek to Lobuche Village Day 2: Trek to High Camp Day 3: Summit Lobuche East and descend to Lobuche
Day 19

Trek to Lhotse Base Camp

From Lobuche, we'll spend a few hours walking along the Khumbu Glacier to reach the Changri Nup Glacier. A short walk from there will bring us to Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, it’s another two-hour trek along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Everest Base Camp.
Day

Climbing period of Mt Lhotse

The second phase of acclimatization begins with rotations to higher camps. Once acclimatization is complete, we will retrace our steps back to base camp and wait for the optimal weather window for the summit attempt. Please note that the acclimatization program may vary during the expedition, as each climber adapts differently to high altitude. Your expedition leader will provide personalized guidance based on your individual condition. Typically, our acclimatization plan includes an overnight stay at Camp 2, followed by a visit to the Lhotse Face and Camp 3. Afterward, we rest and recover at base camp, awaiting the ideal weather conditions for the summit push.
Day 49

Depart Base camp and trek to Pheriche

On this day, we will start our return journey. Leaving Lhotse Base Camp, we’ll retrace our steps back to Pheriche, where we’ll spend the night.
Day 50

Trek to Namche Bazar

Leaving Pheriche early in the morning, we’ll follow the return trail along the Imja River, passing through forests of birch and spruce on our way to Tengboche village. After a brief stop there, we’ll continue along the trail through blooming rhododendron forests to the bridge. We’ll cross the bridge over the Dudh Koshi River and make our way through the Dudh Koshi gorge and pine forests to Sansa village. The area is home to Himalayan wildlife, including mountain goats, Thars, and various local bird species. From Sansa, we’ll pass by a chorten before reaching the army camp at Namche Bazaar, where we’ll stay overnight.
Day 51

Trek to Lukla

We’ll begin our downhill walk from Namche, following the trail to the bridge over the Dudh Koshi River. Continuing on, we’ll reach Monjo, where we’ll complete the necessary formalities at the Sagarmatha National Park check post. From there, we’ll retrace our steps to Phakding for lunch before heading to Lukla. The trail is easy and vibrant, adorned with prayer stones and prayer flags. We’ll stay overnight in a lodge in Lukla. This is the final day of our trek in the Himalayas, a perfect time to organize your photo albums or write in your journal.
Day 52

Fly back to Kathmandu

Take an early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, where you'll be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. Relax and unwind, allowing your muscles to recover from the long and strenuous climb.
Day 53

In Kathmandu

Take a leisurely day to yourself. A day tour around Kathmandu would be a delightful option. You can also explore Thamel, a vibrant tourist hub, where you'll find unique souvenirs, such as handicrafts and local artwork, perfect for gifts to bring back to your family. In the evening of day 56, we'll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the success of our climb. As we enjoy our meal, a captivating cultural dance performance by local dancers will add to the celebration. Should you wish to extend your stay, please feel free to reach out. Email us for more information on extension options.
Day 54

International departure

The day of departure has finally arrived. We want to express our heartfelt thanks for joining us on this climb. It has been a true pleasure getting to know you along the way. We hope this adventure has filled you with lasting memories. As you make your final preparations, our representative will assist you and accompany you to Tribhuvan International Airport, ensuring you arrive three hours before your flight. Stay in touch, and we look forward to hearing from you soon. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey home. Bon voyage!

Inclusions

What's included

  • Airport transportation as per your arrival date to join the expedition.
  • 5-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a B/B plan for 2 nights before and 1 night after the expedition (If clients return early from their expedition, they will be responsible for their extra Kathmandu hotel bookings).
  • Kathmandu to Manthali and Lukla to Kathmandu airfare as per the expedition itinerary.
  • Each member will have one climbing guide with ample experience.
  • Bottle of oxygen and mask regulator for clients and climbing Sherpa guide (For Everest: 10 bottles of oxygen, other 8000m peaks: 5 bottles of oxygen).
  • 7000m peak only emergency oxygen mask regulator available at base camp.
  • Korean fixed rope, dynamic and static rope, carabiner, ice crew, and snow bar.
  • Expedition mountain climbing permit, national park and local government area permit, and all government taxes.
  • Full-board high-altitude meals while trekking to base camp and during the climbing period.
  • Liaison officer with all his expenses covered while on the expedition.
  • Expedition manager, expedition cook, support crew, and porters with their equipment, daily wages, food, insurance, etc.
  • All camping gear, including base camp and high camp: single box tent at Baruntse Base Camp.
  • North Face dome tent for two people at higher camp.
  • Pillow and luxury foam mattress in the tent, table, chair, carpet, green grass, and heater in the dining area.
  • Solar panel for light in every tent and battery charging.
  • Hot washing water as required, warm hot bag for members, etc.
  • EP Gas, EP gas stove, JetBoil, and Kofel set.
  • Sherpa Altitude Adventure company duffle bag or outer cover bag, cap, Khata, Lungdar, Kungbu, Ting, Dalda, Dhup, etc., for Puja prayer at base camp.

Safety & Security

  • Walkie-talkie for communication during the expedition and emergency oxygen with regulator mask available at base camp.
  • Satellite phone available at base camp in case of emergency (pay-per-call).
  • Medical kit box for first aid.

What's not included

  • Medical and personal high-risk insurance
  • Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu): $30 USD for 15 days, $50 USD for 30 days, and $125 USD for 90 days.
  • The main meals in Kathmandu (Lunch and Dinner)
  • Summit bonus: $1500 USD for climbing Sherpa guide. If, for any reason, the summit is not reached due to health issues or any other reason, the client will pay 60% of the summit bonus to the climbing Sherpa guide.
  • Optional tip for the climbing Sherpa guide, cook, kitchen staff, and porter staff: minimum $250 each. The guide will collect the tip at base camp, and they will divide it among the staff by themselves.
  • Personal equipment and climbing gear.
  • International airfare and airport tax.
  • Bottled drinks and beverages, laundry, phone services, and personal expenditure transactions.
  • Tea breaks, chocolates or other snacks, and any meals besides breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
  • Delays and cancellations due to natural phenomena.
  • Sherpa Altitude Adventure will manage helicopter rescue or other required services if necessary.
  • Applicable permit fees and custom charges for satellite phones, communication equipment, and commercial filming during the Baruntse expedition.

Departure Dates

From 20 Apr 2025
To 13 Jun 2025
Days 54

Frequently Asked Questions about Lhotse Expedition – 54 Days

1. What is the best route to climb Lhotse?

The most popular route is the Western Face, which has been considered the standard climbing route. Climbers traveling to Lhotse generally use the same approach as those heading to Everest, entering via the South Col. Once at the Col, Lhotse climbers take the right path, while Everest climbers take the left.

2. How high is Lhotse’s southern face?

Lhotse's southern face rises 3.2 kilometers (10,500 feet) in a mere 2.25 kilometers of horizontal distance, making it one of the most striking and largest mountain faces in the world.

3. What is the elevation of Lhotse?

Lhotse’s main summit stands at an elevation of 8,516 meters (27,939 feet), making it the fourth-highest peak in the world.

4. Are there any specific seasons for climbing Lhotse?

The most favorable seasons for climbing Lhotse are the pre-monsoon spring (April to early June) and post-monsoon autumn (late September to early November). During these times, the weather conditions are relatively stable, although high-altitude storms can still pose a threat.