+977 9849800709 Direct call or WhatsApp 24/7

Mt. Lhotse Expedition 8516M

  • Duration 46
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Challenging
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Kathmandu
  • Meals Full Board
  • Accommodation Hotels/Camping
  • Max. Altitude 8516
  • Activity Mountaineering
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 4+
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • World’s 4th Highest Peak: Standing at 8,516 meters, Mt. Lhotse is the fourth-highest mountain in the world. Climbing it offers the chance to conquer a prestigious peak, surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery.
  • Close Proximity to Everest: The expedition provides an incredible opportunity to trek in the shadow of Mount Everest, as Lhotse shares a base with the world’s highest peak. The view of Everest from Lhotse’s slopes is truly breathtaking.
  • Challenging Yet Rewarding: Lhotse’s technical climbing demands are perfect for seasoned mountaineers, offering a mix of ice, rock, and altitude challenges. The summit offers an immense sense of achievement.
  • Khumbu Icefall and South Col: The route involves crossing the famous Khumbu Icefall, navigating through crevasses, and tackling the difficult South Col, making the expedition a true test of skill and perseverance.
  • Stunning Views of the Himalayas: Climbers are treated to awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Makalu, Nuptse, and many other majestic mountains in the region.
  • Trekking through the Solu-Khumbu Region: The journey starts with an exhilarating trek through the Solu-Khumbu region, passing through Sherpa villages, lush forests, and monasteries. Visitors get to experience the rich culture of the Sherpa people and their spiritual connection with the mountains.
  • Experienced Guides and Support Team: The Everest Adventures Nepal team provides highly experienced Sherpa guides and professional climbers who are well-acquainted with the mountain’s complexities, ensuring the safety and success of the expedition.
  • Cultural and Spiritual Experience: As part of the journey, you’ll visit sacred sites like Tengboche Monastery, which holds cultural and spiritual significance for the Sherpa people. It’s a unique blend of adventure and spirituality.
  • Unbeatable Sense of Accomplishment: Reaching the summit of Lhotse is an extraordinary feat that provides an unmatched sense of accomplishment, offering bragging rights to mountaineers and memories that last a lifetime.
  • Perfect for Adventurers Seeking a Challenge: Ideal for climbers looking for an expedition with more technical difficulty than Everest but without the extreme crowds, the Lhotse expedition provides a perfect balance of challenge and thrill.

Mt. Lhotse Expedition 8516M Overview

The Mt. Lhotse Expedition is an exhilarating and challenging journey to summit one of the world’s highest peaks. Located in the Himalayas, Mt. Lhotse stands at 8,516 meters (27,939 feet), making it the fourth highest mountain on Earth. Situated near the iconic Mt. Everest, it shares part of its route with Everest expeditions, offering climbers a unique experience to explore some of the most rugged and breathtaking terrains in the world.

The expedition typically begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, followed by a trek through the picturesque Khumbu Valley. The trail winds through Sherpa villages, lush forests, and Buddhist monasteries, offering a glimpse of the rich culture of the region. After reaching base camp, climbers spend several days acclimatizing to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness. The climb itself is technically demanding, requiring strong mountaineering skills, particularly in high-altitude environments, ice climbing, and navigating steep slopes.

The summit push is a monumental challenge, with climbers needing to overcome treacherous conditions like extreme cold, high winds, and thin air. The final stretch of the climb involves scaling the Lhotse Face, a steep, icy slope followed by a summit ridge, where technical skills are essential. Reaching the top of Mt. Lhotse is a triumphant moment, offering unparalleled views of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other towering peaks in the region.

Everest Adventures Nepal offers expert-guided expeditions that ensure the safety and success of climbers. With experienced Sherpas, excellent logistical support, and the highest standard of equipment, the expedition is not only a physical challenge but also a chance to witness the majesty of the Himalayas. The Mt. Lhotse Expedition is a dream for serious mountaineers, delivering an unforgettable experience for those who seek to conquer one of the world’s most magnificent peaks.

Day to Day Itinerary
Expand all

Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and check in at your hotel. Meet your expedition team and receive a detailed briefing about the Mt. Lhotse expedition. This introductory day will allow you to adjust to the surroundings and prepare for the upcoming journey, ensuring you’re fully informed and ready for the adventure ahead.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • Welcome Dinner

These two days are dedicated to exploring Kathmandu and getting ready for the trek. You’ll visit significant cultural and historical sites like the Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley. Next, you’ll head to Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples, followed by a visit to Boudhanath Stupa, a central hub for Tibetan Buddhism. Along with sightseeing, you’ll also focus on preparing your gear and receiving a comprehensive pre-trek briefing, ensuring that you’re physically and mentally ready for the adventure ahead.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • Breakfast

You will begin your journey with a drive to Manthali, where you will board a scenic flight to Lukla, a small mountain town perched at 2,860 meters. The flight offers dramatic views of the majestic Himalayas, setting the tone for your adventure ahead. Upon landing in Lukla, your trek to Phakding starts. Phakding, located at an altitude of 2,610  meters, is a serene village nestled in the Khumbu region. The trek is relatively easy and offers stunning landscapes, with the Dudh Koshi River flowing along the route. You’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this village before continuing your journey through the Khumbu region.

  • Lodge
  • All Inclusive
  • Drive 4.5 hours, Flight 20 Mins, Trek 3.5 hours
  • 132 km

Today’s trek takes you from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region. The journey takes 5-6 hours and is mostly a steady uphill climb, allowing you to gradually adjust to the increasing altitude. The trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Namche Bazaar, perched at an altitude of 3,440 meters, is the gateway to Everest. Famous for its vibrant market and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect place to rest and enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas.

  • Lodge
  • All Inclusive
  • 5-6 hours
  • 8-10 km

To ensure your body acclimatizes to the higher altitude, today is spent in Namche Bazaar. You can explore the town and immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, or take a hike to the Everest View Hotel. From here, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. You’ll also have the chance to visit the local museum, where you can learn about the region’s history and the lives of the Sherpa people, helping you prepare for the challenging days ahead.

  • Lodge
  • All Inclusive
  • 4-5 hrs
  • 6-7 km

Today, you’ll trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche, which takes 5-6 hours. The route is scenic, offering impressive views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other towering peaks. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into more rugged terrain. At Tengboche, you’ll find the famous Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual center for the Sherpas. The monastery’s serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks make this a special stop during your trek.

  • Tea House
  • All Inclusive
  • 5-6 hrs
  • Approx 10 km

Today’s trek takes you from Tengboche to Dingboche, a small village situated at 4,360 meters. The trail climbs steadily, and as you ascend, you’ll begin to notice the thinning air. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with jagged peaks and rugged terrain. Dingboche offers stunning views of some of the world’s tallest mountains, including Makalu and Lhotse. The air may feel thinner, but the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas will keep you motivated.

  • Tea House
  • All Inclusive
  • 6-7 hours
  • Approx 11 km

From Dingboche, you’ll trek to Lobuche, located at 4,940 meters. The day is challenging as you’ll pass through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, gradually gaining altitude. The increased altitude can make the journey more strenuous, but the views of Pumori, Nuptse, and other Himalayan peaks provide a rewarding experience. The terrain becomes more rugged, and you’ll be closer to the iconic Everest Base Camp, fueling excitement for the next day’s trek.

  • Tea House
  • All Inclusive
  • 7-8 hours
  • Approx 12 km

This is the culmination of your trek as you make your way to Everest Base Camp. The climb is tough, but the reward is immense. Standing at an altitude of 5,364 meters, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Khumbu Icefall and the majestic Mount Everest. This iconic destination is the highlight of the trek, offering a profound sense of achievement and the opportunity to witness the grandeur of the world’s highest peak.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 5-6 hours
  • Approx 7-8 km

After arriving at Base Camp, the next crucial phase of your expedition begins – the climb to the summit of Mount Lhotse. This part of the journey is intensive, technical, and demanding. The expedition is structured around acclimatization, gradual ascent, and meticulous preparation, with your team moving upwards through various camps. Each day, you will progress towards higher altitudes while adjusting to the reduced oxygen levels.

During this period, your climbing team will guide you through several key stages of the climb, including establishing and moving between higher camps, usually Camp I, Camp II, Camp III, and finally, the summit. Acclimatization is a critical aspect, requiring rest days at certain camps to help your body adjust to the altitude. Your climbing team will make sure that you take adequate rest and hydration, monitor your health, and make strategic decisions based on the weather and physical conditions.

The climb is technical and involves tackling some challenging sections of ice, rock, and snow, with the use of climbing gear such as ropes, crampons, and ice axes. Your team will be there to assist in navigating these technical challenges, ensuring your safety and progress. The conditions on the mountain can be unpredictable, with extreme weather posing potential risks. As a result, the climbing team will adjust schedules, reroute, or make necessary stops as needed for safety.

This phase of the expedition will test your endurance, skill, and mental fortitude, with each day building towards the ultimate goal of reaching the summit. The focus will always be on your safety, proper acclimatization, and making sure you are physically prepared for the final push to the top.

  • Camping
  • All Inclusive
  • 29-30 Days

After your summit attempt, the journey back to Lukla begins. Over the course of several days, you will retrace your steps through the same route, slowly descending to safer altitudes. This portion of the expedition is just as significant, as it allows your body to recover from the high-altitude climb and helps acclimatize to lower elevations gradually. The trek back offers the chance to reflect on your achievement and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.

  • Tea House
  • All inclusive
  • 6-7 hrs each day
  • 80-90 km

Upon reaching Lukla, you’ll board a flight back to Manthali and drive back to Kathmandu. Weather conditions can sometimes cause delays, but once you arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and explore the city’s vibrant culture. This day offers some time to rest after the physically demanding expedition and to appreciate the bustling life of the capital.

  • 3 Star Hotel
  • All Inclusive
  • Flight 20 Mins, Drive 4.5 hours
  • 132 km

After your climb and trek, you’ll have a day to relax and perhaps visit some of Kathmandu’s famous attractions. Later, you’ll head to the airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Himalayan adventure.

  • Breakfast
Altitude Chart

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Customize Trip
Cost Includes
  • Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • Domestic Flights: Manthali to Lukla and Lukla  to Manthali as per the itinerary.
  • Cargo Transportation: All necessary expedition equipment transportation for members and staff from Kathmandu to Lukla (by air cargo) and Base Camp (by porters/yaks), return transport from Base Camp to Lukla (by porters/yaks) and Lukla to Kathmandu (by air cargo).
  • Personal Baggage: Up to 70 kg per member carried by porters or yaks.
  • Kathmandu Accommodation: 3-star hotel.
  • Base Camp Accommodation: Individual box tent for each member at Base Camp with necessary amenities (mattresses, pillows, dining and kitchen tents, toilet and shower tents, etc.).
  • Meals: 3 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with tea/coffee, served with fresh vegetables, meat, fruits, and beverages, including soft drinks and juice (via helicopter flights).
  • Experienced Base Camp Cook & Kitchen Helpers: To ensure quality food throughout the expedition.
  • Expedition Royalty & Permits: For Nepal Government’s Mt. Lhotse climb, Sagarmatha National Park, and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry.
  • Khumbu Icefall Climbing Fee: Paid to Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC).
  • Stool Shipment Transfer & Garbage Deposit: Associated charges.
  • Government Liaison Officer: With full equipment, salary, and accommodation.
  • Experienced Sherpas: One veteran, government-licensed climbing Sherpa per member for the entire climb, including each rotation.
  • Medical & Emergency Rescue Insurance: For all Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
  • Porters: For each member up to Base Camp and back (both ways).
  • Base Camp Staff: Experienced and trained staff, including a cook, kitchen helpers, and porters.
  • Climbing Equipment: Oxygen mask, regulator, ice wall, and ladder training at Base Camp by UIAGM-certified guides.
  • Oxygen Supply: 3 oxygen bottles (4L) per member for the summit, and 2 for each high-altitude Sherpa.
  • High Altitude Camps: High altitude tents, cooking gas, cooking pots, and food for members, Sherpas, and crew at Camps I, II, III, and IV.
  • Group Climbing Gear: Fixed and dynamic ropes as required.
  • Medical Check-ups: Two medical check-ups for each climber at Base Camp before summit attempt.
  • Comprehensive Medical Kit: For members and staff during the expedition.
  • Satellite Phone & Walkie-Talkie: For emergency communication and regular updates, carried by Sherpas and available for members (subject to charge).
  • Weather Forecast Reports: Regular weather forecast reports from Meteotest, Bern (Switzerland).
  • Climbing Sherpas: Assist in carrying gear to high camps and fixing the route to the summit.
  • Climbing Equipment: Includes oxygen cylinders, summit oxygen mask & regulator, and additional equipment for members and Sherpas.
  • Summit Certificate: Lhotse climbing certificate issued by MoCTCA after a successful summit.
Cost Excludes
  • Meals Not Specified in the Itinerary: Any meals outside the listed inclusions will be at your own expense.
  • Travel Insurance: Travelers are strongly advised to secure comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for trekking, medical emergencies, cancellations, and high-altitude climbing.
  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal are not included. Travelers must book and cover their own international airfare.
  • Nepal Entry Visa: The cost of obtaining a visa for entry into Nepal is not included. This must be arranged upon arrival or in advance.
  • Cold and Hard Drinks: Beverages such as bottled water, soft drinks (e.g., Coke, Fanta, Sprite), juices, and alcoholic drinks during the trek and expedition are not included and must be purchased separately.
  • Personal Trekking Equipment: Travelers must arrange essential trekking gear, such as backpacks, sleeping bags, trekking poles, appropriate footwear, and other personal items.
  • Climbing Gear: Specialized equipment like boots, down suits, gloves, harnesses, and helmets (available for rent or purchase in Kathmandu) must be obtained by the travelers.
  • Tips for Expedition Staff: Tipping for climbing Sherpas, guides, porters, and drivers is customary and appreciated for exceptional service, but not mandatory.
  • Unexpected Costs: Expenses arising from flight delays, inclement weather, or itinerary changes are not included.
  • Required Insurance: Travelers must have insurance covering high-altitude climbing, medical
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Price from:$22000P/P
Write a Review
Everest Nepal Have Questions?
Talk to Expert

Dilip Singh Rai

WhatsApp/Viber +977 9849800709
FAQs
Expand all

  • Yes, a tourist visa is required to visit Nepal for a Lhotse expedition. It can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through Nepalese consulates abroad. The visa is typically valid for 15, 30, or 90 days. Apart from the visa, climbers also need an Expedition Permit issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) or the Department of Tourism (DoT). In addition, a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit is required as Lhotse is within this protected area. A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card is mandatory for trekkers. Finally, for the Lhotse climb itself, climbers must have the services of a licensed guide and a climbing team with a permit to access the mountain.

  • The cost of a Lhotse expedition can range between $20,000 to $30,000 per person, depending on various factors. Permits alone can cost several thousand dollars, including the climbing permit, Sagarmatha National Park entry fee, and TIMS card. The cost of guides, porters, and Sherpas can also contribute significantly to the price, with experienced guides charging high fees. Specialized mountaineering equipment such as oxygen cylinders, tents, and high-altitude gear are additional expenses. The quality and experience of the expedition company also affect the cost. Group size, logistical support, and the duration of the trip—usually 6-8 weeks—further influence the overall cost. Additional services such as helicopter rescues or extra oxygen may also increase the price.

  • The best time to attempt the summit of Lhotse is during the spring (late April to May) and autumn (late September to October). In spring, weather conditions are generally more stable, with warmer temperatures, especially at lower altitudes. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and snow, making the climb dangerous and challenging. During spring and autumn, temperatures can drop to -20°C or lower at higher altitudes, and winds can be extremely strong. However, weather conditions are notoriously unpredictable at high altitudes, and climbers often face sudden snowstorms, wind gusts, and rapid temperature drops. This unpredictability makes the weather a critical factor in planning and requires constant monitoring by expedition teams.

  • Climbing Lhotse requires exceptional physical fitness, endurance, and prior mountaineering experience. Climbers should have a solid foundation in trekking, including high-altitude trekking experience in the Himalayas. Physical conditioning should include cardiovascular training, strength-building exercises, and core stability. A successful ascent requires the ability to handle the extreme physical stress and long hours of climbing at high altitudes. High-altitude trekking experience is essential to understand how the body reacts to oxygen deprivation. Climbers must also be prepared for difficult terrains, technical climbing, and prolonged exposure to cold and fatigue. Those with experience on peaks such as Everest Base Camp or other 6,000-meter peaks are generally better equipped for Lhotse.

  • Lhotse Base Camp is located at an altitude of around 6,400 meters (21,000 feet). The trek to Base Camp typically takes around 8-10 days from Lukla, depending on acclimatization schedules. From Lukla, climbers usually stop at Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), Tengboche (3,860 meters), Dingboche (4,410 meters), and Lobuche (4,910 meters) before reaching Base Camp. Each of these camps is strategically placed to help climbers acclimatize to the increasing altitude. Higher camps on Lhotse include Camp I at 6,400 meters, Camp II at 6,600 meters, Camp III at 7,200 meters, and the final push from Camp IV at 7,900 meters to the summit at 8,516 meters.

  • Proper acclimatization is crucial when climbing Lhotse due to the extreme altitudes, where the oxygen level is significantly lower, making it harder to breathe and increasing the risk of altitude sickness. Acclimatization is achieved by gradually ascending to higher altitudes, allowing the body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels. Climbers typically spend extra days at various camps to rest and allow their bodies to adapt. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, it can lead to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening and require immediate descent.

  • Sherpas are an essential part of any Lhotse expedition. They serve as guides, porters, and high-altitude experts, offering local knowledge and logistical support throughout the climb. Sherpas are highly skilled in navigating difficult terrains, setting up camps, and helping climbers with difficult sections. Their experience and ability to adapt to high altitudes make them invaluable for ensuring the safety and success of the expedition. While it is technically possible to attempt a Lhotse climb without a guide, it is not advisable, especially for inexperienced climbers. The complexities of the climb, the unpredictable weather, and the danger of altitude sickness make it necessary to have experienced professionals like Sherpas to assist.

  • Climbing Lhotse requires specialized equipment and clothing designed to handle extreme cold, high altitudes, and rugged terrain. Essential gear includes a high-quality mountaineering harness, ice axes, crampons, ropes, carabiners, and oxygen systems (for summit attempts). Technical clothing such as a down suit, insulated gloves, a balaclava, and mountaineering boots are essential to protect against sub-zero temperatures. Proper layers, including moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece, and waterproof outer layers, are necessary for temperature regulation. Additionally, climbers need a reliable tent for base camp, sleeping bags rated for extreme cold, and a portable stove for cooking. The terrain requires careful attention to footgear, and safety equipment like a helmet is also crucial.

  • Mental toughness and emotional resilience are essential for climbing Lhotse due to the extreme physical and psychological demands of the expedition. Climbers need patience, focus, and determination to push through the fatigue, fear, and isolation that can arise during the ascent. Emotional preparedness involves accepting the unpredictability of the weather and the risk inherent in high-altitude climbing. Climbers often mentally prepare by visualizing success, setting realistic goals, and developing strategies for staying calm in emergencies. Team camaraderie and a strong support system also help to maintain morale. Meditation, breathing exercises, and psychological readiness are often part of the preparation for climbers attempting such challenging climbs.

  • Comprehensive travel and medical insurance are crucial for a Lhotse expedition due to the high-risk nature of the climb. Insurance ensures that climbers are covered in case of accidents, injuries, or health issues, which can be costly to treat in remote areas. Medical insurance should cover evacuation costs, including helicopter rescue if necessary. An emergency evacuation plan is vital in the event of altitude sickness, injury, or severe weather, as conditions can rapidly deteriorate at high altitudes. Without insurance and a well-prepared evacuation plan, climbers may face significant financial and logistical challenges in the event of an emergency. Insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that help is available if required.

You May Also LikeSimilar Itineraries
Mt. Lhotse Expedition 8516M
Mt. Lhotse Expedition 8516M
Difficulty: Challenging 46 Days
Max. Height: 8516

US $22000

Mt. Cho-Oyu Expedition 8188M
Mt. Cho-Oyu Expedition 8188M
Difficulty: Challenging 43 Days
Max. Height: 8188

US $35000

Mt. Dhaulagiri Expedition 8167M
Mt. Dhaulagiri Expedition 8167M
Difficulty: Challenging 42 Days
Max. Height: 8167

US $15000

Mt. Annapurna I Expedition 8091M
Mt. Annapurna I Expedition 8091M
Difficulty: Challenging 42 Days
Max. Height: 8091

US $15000

Mt. Manaslu Expedition 8163M
Mt. Manaslu Expedition 8163M
Difficulty: Challenging 38 Days
Max. Height: 8163

US $18000

Mt. Pumori Expedition 7161M
Mt. Pumori Expedition 7161M
Difficulty: Challenging 33 Days
Max. Height: 7161

US $11000