45 Days

Mt. Lhotse Expedition

Price per person $31000

Altitude 8516m

Difficulty Extreme

Group size 1-15

Climb Style Normal

Overview
Itinerary
Cost Inclusion & Exclusion
Travel Notes

Overview

The Lhotse Expedition is not your typical mountain trek—it’s an ultimate test of endurance, skill, and determination. Reserved for seasoned mountaineers, summiting Lhotse is a badge of honor, a testament to human perseverance, and an opportunity to witness the world from a breathtaking vantage point. However, this climb is not for the faint-hearted. With its towering heights and unpredictable weather conditions, Lhotse demands respect, preparation, and unwavering resolve.

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Lhotse stands at a staggering 8,516 meters (27,940 feet), making it the fourth-highest peak in the world. Its name, meaning “South Peak” in Tibetan, reflects its close proximity to Mount Everest. Sharing the same climbing route up to Camp 3, Lhotse offers an equally thrilling yet distinct adventure, marked by its iconic ice walls and technical challenges.

Bridging the Nepal-Tibet border, Lhotse’s coordinates (27.9619° N latitude and 86.9337° E longitude) place it within the impressive Everest region massif. This strategic location creates a breathtaking landscape of snow-clad ridges, glacial valleys, and towering peaks, making it a dream destination for adventurers seeking both physical and visual majesty.

For mountaineers, Lhotse is a proving ground. The ascent involves navigating rugged icefalls, crevasses, and near-vertical ice slopes. One of the most overwhelming sections is the infamous Lhotse Face—a steep, icy wall where climbers rely on fixed ropes, ice axes, and intense willpower to advance. The climb is not just about physical strength but also mental resilience. The thin air, extreme cold, and demanding technical routes make Lhotse an ultimate challenge.

Beyond the climb itself, the journey to Lhotse is deeply enriching. The expedition begins with a trek through the Khumbu region, home to the resilient and warm-hearted Sherpas. As climbers pass through picturesque mountain villages, they witness fluttering prayer flags, ancient monasteries, and the rhythmic sounds of chanting monks. This spiritual energy adds depth to the adventure, reminding climbers of the rich traditions and history woven into the Himalayas.

Sherpas play a crucial role in every Lhotse expedition, bringing invaluable expertise and deep knowledge of the terrain. Their dedication and courage make the climb possible, and interacting with them offers a unique cultural exchange, adding meaning beyond the physical challenge.

The Lhotse expedition typically spans around 45 days, allowing for proper acclimatization, technical training, and the climb itself. The journey begins at Lhotse Base Camp (5,364 meters / 17,598 feet), where climbers spend time adjusting to high altitudes before tackling the infamous Khumbu Icefall. This ever-shifting maze of ice seracs and crevasses demands careful navigation, testing both skill and patience.

From there, climbers enter the Western Cwm, a vast glacial valley leading to the base of the Lhotse Face. This sheer ice wall stands as one of the most challenging segments, requiring careful technique and endurance. Once past the Lhotse Face, climbers reach the South Col (7,925 meters / 26,000 feet), a crucial staging ground for the final push.

The last stretch is through the Death Zone—where oxygen levels are critically low, and every step feels like a battle against nature. But those who conquer this challenge are rewarded with an unforgettable panorama from the summit—Everest, Makalu, and the vast expanse of the Himalayas stretching as far as the eye can see.

Lhotse is more than a mountain—it’s a personal and spiritual journey. Many climbers describe reaching the summit as a life-changing experience, not just for the physical achievement but for the deep self-reflection it inspires. The isolation, the silence, the raw beauty of the towering peaks—everything about Lhotse leaves an indelible mark on those who dare to take on the challenge.

Reaching the top is only half the battle. The descent requires just as much caution and skill. Exhaustion, unpredictable weather, and icefalls make this phase equally demanding. However, as climbers retrace their steps through the icefields and down to Base Camp, they have the chance to reflect on their achievement, soaking in the unreal landscapes one last time.

Not everyone dreams of summiting Lhotse, but that doesn’t mean they can’t experience its magic. The region offers incredible trekking routes that allow adventurers to explore the stunning landscapes without the technical demands of climbing. Trekkers can visit ancient monasteries, stay in traditional Sherpa villages, and marvel at the pristine glaciers—all while enjoying the spirit of high-altitude exploration.

Lhotse was first conquered on May 18, 1956, by Swiss climbers Fritz Luchsinger and Ernst Reiss, marking a significant milestone in Himalayan mountaineering. Since then, numerous climbers have followed in their footsteps, each adding to Lhotse’s legacy as one of the most challenging yet rewarding peaks to conquer.

Lhotse is not for casual adventurers. If you’re considering this expedition, here’s what you need to be prepared for:

Peak Physical Fitness & Experience: This is a demanding, high-altitude climb with extreme technical sections. Prior experience with ice climbing and high-altitude mountaineering is a must.
Mental Resilience: The journey will test your limits. The ability to stay focused under pressure is just as crucial as physical strength.
Financial Investment: Climbing Lhotse is expensive due to logistics, permits, gear, and expert guides. Planning and budgeting are essential.
Weather & Safety: Conditions can change rapidly. Having a solid support team and expert guidance is crucial for a safe ascent and descent.
Unparalleled Views: The summit rewards climbers with one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the world.
Ultimate Challenge: A true test of endurance, skill, and determination for experienced climbers.
Cultural Immersion: Experience the warmth and traditions of the Sherpa community.
A Life-Changing Experience: Few adventures offer the mix of thrill, beauty, and introspection that Lhotse provides.

For those who dare to take on the Lhotse Expedition, the rewards are beyond measure. It’s not just about reaching the summit—it’s about the journey, the personal growth, and the memories created along the way. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer chasing your next big challenge or a trekker wanting to witness the majesty of the Himalayas up close, Lhotse promises an adventure that will stay with you forever.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Take some time to rest and refresh after your journey.

Day 2

Welcome Briefing & Gear Check

Meet your expedition team and receive a detailed briefing on the adventure ahead. Afterward, a thorough gear check will ensure you have all the necessary equipment for the climb.

Day 3

Fly to Lukla & Trek to Phakding (2610m)

Begin on an early morning scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From here, begin your trek to Phakding, a charming village along the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Phakding.

Day 4

Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m)

Follow the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and trek through beautiful forests before reaching Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Sherpa community. Overnight in Namche.

Day 5

Acclimatization Day in Namche

Spend the day adjusting to the altitude. Explore Namche’s bustling market, visit the Sherpa Cultural Museum, or take a short hike to Everest View Hotel for breathtaking mountain views.

Day 6

Trek to Tengboche (3860m)

Hike through rhododendron forests with stunning views of Everest and Ama Dablam. Arrive at Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery, where you'll spend the night.

Day 7

Trek to Dingboche (4410m)

Descend to the Imja Khola and then ascend gradually towards Dingboche, a picturesque village nestled beneath towering Himalayan peaks. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 8

Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Take another acclimatization break. Hike to Nagarjun Hill for panoramic views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, aiding in altitude adaptation.

Day 9

Trek to Lobuche (4910m)

Follow the Khumbu Glacier’s moraines and pass memorials dedicated to fallen climbers before reaching Lobuche. Overnight stay in Lobuche.

Day 10

Trek to Lobuche High Camp (5400m)

Ascend towards Lobuche High Camp in preparation for the summit push. The day is spent resting and making final preparations for the climb.

Day 11

Summit Lobuche Peak (6119m) & Return to High Camp

Begin the early morning ascent of Lobuche Peak. Enjoy breathtaking summit views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse before descending back to High Camp.

Day 12

Trek to Everest & Lhotse Base Camp (5300m)

Descend from Lobuche and trek to Everest Base Camp, a historic mountaineering hub. Continue to Lhotse Base Camp, your home for the next few weeks as you prepare for the Lhotse summit.

Day 13-42

Lhotse Climbing Period (8516m)

A dedicated climbing period for acclimatization rotations, technical training, and the final summit push. Led by expert Sherpa guides, this phase ensures safety and success on Lhotse’s challenging terrain.

Day 43

Helicopter Flight Back to Kathmandu

After successfully completing the expedition, enjoy a scenic helicopter flight back to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Day 44

Reserve Day in Kathmandu

A buffer day to accommodate any delays during the expedition. Spend it relaxing, shopping, or exploring the cultural wonders of Kathmandu.

Day 45

Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of your Lhotse Expedition.

Cost Inclusion & Exclusion

Included package

Transportation Services: Enjoy convenient airport transfers in Nepal, both internationally and domestically, ensuring a smooth transition to and from your hotel.
Accommodation: Luxuriate in a 4-night stay at a Kathmandu hotel with a bed and breakfast plan, providing a comfortable and restful retreat during your expedition.
Scheduled Flights: Benefit from scheduled flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and back via Ramechap, arranged for both members and the Liaison Officer, streamlining travel logistics.
Personal Climbing Equipment: Avail the facility to transport personal climbing equipment from Kathmandu to Lukla to Base Camp and back, with a maximum allowance of 60 kg per member.
Full Board Services: Indulge in full board food and lodging during your trek to Base Camp and the return journey to Lukla after the expedition, ensuring nourishment and comfort throughout.
Expert Guidance: Receive the guidance of a professional climbing Sherpa guide per member during summit attempts and climbing activities, enhancing safety and success.
Oxygen Supply: Stay equipped with 4 oxygen bottles (4 liters each) per member, complete with top-out masks and regulators, along with 2 bottles per Climbing Sherpa, ensuring adequate oxygen provision during the expedition.
Comprehensive Transportation: Enjoy transportation services for all staff between Kathmandu, Base Camp, and Kathmandu, facilitating smooth movement throughout the expedition.
Essential Equipment: Have access to common climbing equipment such as ropes, ice bars, ice screws, and more, ensuring preparedness for climbing challenges.
Camp Facilities: Experience comfort at Base Camp with solar power, satellite phone, and internet services available, along with daily weather reports and medical consultation services.
Accommodation Setup: Rest in single tents at Base Camp with mattresses and pillows provided, while high-altitude tents are shared among 2-3 climbers, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay.
Catering Services: Relish in all-inclusive food and fuel for Base Camp and higher camps during the expedition, with the services of a cook and kitchen staff provided at Base Camp and Camp II.
Insurance Coverage: Ensure the safety and well-being of climbing Sherpas, cooks, Liaison Officers, and local porters with comprehensive insurance coverage, including equipment costs.
Additional Amenities: Enjoy the convenience of heaters, fresh vegetable supply, and personal solar-powered lights at Base Camp, enhancing comfort and convenience during your stay.
Logistics Support: Have your food and equipment supply transported to Base Camp from Kathmandu, facilitating logistical arrangements for a successful expedition.
Fees and Charges: Cover all necessary fees, including Khumbu Icefall route fee, Summit and Higher Camp Route fix charge, National Park fees, and government-imposed taxes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Not included in Package 🤙

International Flight Tickets: Exclude international flight tickets to and from Nepal, providing flexibility in travel arrangements.
Visa Fees: Obtain the Nepal Entry visa upon arrival at the airport at your own expense, adhering to immigration regulations.
Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner expenses during your stay in Kathmandu are not included, allowing for personalized dining choices.
Extended Hotel Stay: Any additional nights beyond the 4-night stay in Kathmandu are not covered, offering flexibility for travel extensions.
Personal Expenses: Cover personal climbing equipment expenses, as well as expenses of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, postage, and Wi-Fi, ensuring individual preferences are met.
Excess Baggage: Any extra costs incurred due to personal baggage exceeding 60 kilograms are not included, providing clarity on weight limitations.
Insurance: Secure your own travel, accident, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance for comprehensive coverage during the expedition.
Filming Charges: Additional charges for commercial filming and drone permits are not included, allowing for customized media arrangements.
Extra Oxygen: Any extra oxygen bottles beyond the provided 4 per member are not included, offering flexibility for additional oxygen requirements.
Staff Bonuses: Climbing Sherpa summit bonus, basecamp cook tips, and other staff tips are excluded, providing discretion in gratuity offerings.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Any other additional expenses not mentioned in the Inclusions section are not covered, allowing for individualized spending choices.

Travel Notes

Key Attractions

Mount Lhotse (8,516 m): The fourth-highest peak in the world, Lhotse is renowned for its dramatic face and challenging summit route. The climb provides an extraordinary sense of accomplishment, offering stunning views of Everest, Makalu, and the surrounding peaks.

Lhotse Face: This steep, snow-covered section forms a large part of the route between Camp II and Camp III. The Lhotse Face is an iconic climb, requiring technical skills and endurance.

South Col: The area between Lhotse and Everest, the South Col is the final resting point before the summit attempt. The panoramic views from this point are among the most majestic in the world, with Everest towering nearby.

Lhotse Base Camp (5,400 m): This serves as the base camp for the Lhotse Expedition, located in the Khumbu Icefall region, and offers a fantastic vantage point for the surrounding mountains, including the mighty Everest.

Khumbu Icefall: The challenging icefall, a section between the Base Camp and Camp I, is known for its shifting glaciers and massive ice blocks, creating an exciting yet dangerous climb. It is a landmark feature of the Lhotse route.

Everest Viewpoints: The trek to Lhotse Base Camp passes through several points offering spectacular views of Mount Everest and other high peaks, including Makalu and Cho Oyu, providing opportunities for incredible photos.

Sherpa Villages: Along the trek, you will encounter traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. These villages offer an opportunity to learn about Sherpa culture and lifestyle, as well as to acclimatize and prepare for higher altitudes.

Sagarmatha National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to incredible biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna such as the Himalayan tahr, snow leopard, and various bird species. Trekkers also pass through alpine forests, making the journey to Base Camp even more beautiful.

Himalayan Monasteries: Experience the rich spiritual culture of the region by visiting Sherpa monasteries, such as those in Tengboche, where you can observe traditional Buddhist rituals and prayers.

Preparation

Ensure that you have completed a rigorous physical and mental training program focused on endurance, strength, and high-altitude climbing.
Undergo a thorough medical examination and obtain any necessary medical clearances for high-altitude climbing.
Secure a valid passport, Nepal Entry Visa, and permits for the Lhotse expedition well in advance.
Ensure you have top-quality climbing gear, including boots, harness, ropes, crampons, and other necessary equipment. Perform a detailed equipment check to ensure everything is in good condition.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, climbing, medical emergencies, evacuation, and other potential risks.
Familiarize yourself with symptoms of altitude sickness and follow acclimatization protocols to minimize risk during the expedition.
Ensure that communication devices such as satellite phones and walkie-talkies are functional, and have them tested before departure.
Attend pre-expedition briefings by guides and leaders to understand the route, acclimatization schedules, and emergency procedures.
Prepare for the possibility of itinerary changes due to weather conditions, and ensure you have sufficient time in your international flight schedule to accommodate any delays.
Familiarize yourself with the cultural aspects of the Sherpa community, respecting their traditions and lifestyle during your stay in the region.
Pack high-energy snacks and be mindful of hydration, as maintaining energy levels is crucial for a successful climb.
Understand the realities of the Khumbu Icefall, Lhotse Face, and high-altitude climbing conditions, and ensure you’re mentally prepared for these challenges.
Review all evacuation plans and emergency protocols, and ensure your travel insurance covers these eventualities.
Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your environmental impact while trekking in the region.