Lhotse Rapid Expedition

30 days Expedition / (SKILL LEVEL: extreme)

ABOUT THIS TRIP
  • PRICE:

    Starts at $38,950 (with Sherpa Support only) & Starts at $44,050 (with IMFGA Guide Support)

  • DURATION: 30 days
  • ACTIVITY: Expedition
  • BEST SEASON: / spring 
  • START: Kathmandu
  • FINISH: Kathmandu
  • ACCOMMODATION: Tea house & Camping
  • GRADE: extreme
  • AVAIABILITY: Yes
  • GROUP SIZE: 2-8
  • MAX ALTITUDE: 8,516 m

OVERVIEW

  • SKILL LEVEL
    extreme
  • DURATION
    30 days

About Mt Lhotse

Lhotse is the 4th highest mountain at 8516 meters in Everest region. It has three different summits and is famed for its proximity to Mt. Everest, and climbers who approach it from the conventional route spend time on its north west face. Lhotse rises only 610m. from the South Col, but it is a conspicuous mountain because of its enormous south face, the steepest in the Himalayas, with numerous unsuccessful efforts, many fatalities, and few ascents.

About Rapid Expeditions

Rapid Expedition generally refers to a climbing style that aims to summit a mountain in a shorter period of time compared to traditional climbing methods. It involves minimizing time spent in the dangerous Khumbu icefall, a challenging section of the mountain. This style often includes pre- acclimatization hypoxic training, the use of supplemental oxygen, and other strategies to ascend faster and reduce time spent at high altitudes. It should only be attempted by experienced climbers who are very familiar with the mountain.
The Rapid Lhotse Expedition is ideal for climbers with limited time but extensive mountaineering experience, offering a swift yet safe and supported path to the summit of Lhotse, blending innovation with the timeless challenge of conquering the 8000ers peak.

More Detail

Lhotse Rapid Expedition

30 days Expedition / (SKILL LEVEL: extreme)

Day 1: Arrival at KTM & transfer to hotel -1300m/4,593ft

Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Pheriche – 4,240m/14,340ft

Day 3: Day hike to Nangkartshang peak – 5,083m/16,677ft

Day 4: Trek to Lobuche

Day 5: Rest at Lobuche

Day 6: Trek to Lobuche High Camp

Day 7: Lobuche summit and back to Lobuche

Day 8: Trek to Everest Base Camp

Day 9: Puja Ceremony – Preparation for training

Day 10 – 11: Technical climbing instruction

Day 12: Preparation day for the first rotation

Day 13 – 26: Climbing period of Lhotse and back to basecamp

Day 27: Celebration, Packup, and rest

Day 28: Fly back to Kathmandu by Heli.

Day 29: At leisure in Kathmandu – official documentation

Day 30: Final Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,593ft)

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take the time to relax and recover from your flight, as well as explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu. This day offers an opportunity to prepare for the adventure ahead and immerse yourself in Nepal’s rich culture.

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Pheriche (4,240m/14,340ft)

Today, you will take a breathtaking flight from Kathmandu to Pheriche, located in the heart of the Khumbu region. This flight offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon landing, you’ll start acclimatizing to the higher altitudes, which is essential for a successful expedition.

Day 3: Day Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m/16,677ft)

You’ll embark on an acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Peak, which offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other towering peaks. This hike will help your body adjust to the altitude while giving you a taste of the incredible landscapes you’ll encounter throughout the expedition.

Day 4: Trek to Lobuche (4,940m/16,210ft)

Today’s trek takes you through stunning mountain landscapes to the village of Lobuche. Passing through the Khumbu Valley, you will experience magnificent views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and rugged terrain. Lobuche serves as an important stop on your journey to the higher camps.

Day 5: Rest Day at Lobuche

This day is reserved for rest and acclimatization in Lobuche. Taking time to relax is crucial to ensure that your body can properly adjust to the increasing altitude. Use this day to enjoy the views and prepare for the next stage of the journey.

Day 6: Trek to Lobuche High Camp

Trek to Lobuche High Camp, which offers stunning, remote views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks. The altitude will challenge you, but this gradual ascent is key to your acclimatization and ensures you’re well-prepared for the summit push.

Day 7: Lobuche Summit and Return to Lobuche

Today, you will summit Lobuche East, reaching an elevation of 6,119m (20,075ft). After an exhilarating climb to the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and surrounding peaks. After savoring the moment, you’ll descend to Lobuche for rest and recovery.

Day 8: Trek to Everest Base Camp

Today, you trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp. Walking through glacial moraines and rugged terrain, you will reach the world’s most famous base camp, which lies at the foot of Everest and Lhotse. This marks the beginning of your Lhotse climbing preparations.

Day 9: Puja Ceremony and Preparation

A traditional Sherpa Puja Ceremony will be held to bless the expedition, ensuring safety and success for the climb ahead. This is an essential part of the mountaineering culture in Nepal. Afterward, there will be time for preparation and rest before starting technical training.

Days 10-11: Technical Climbing Instruction

These two days are dedicated to technical climbing instruction. You will practice critical climbing techniques, including rope work, ascending, and descending, under the guidance of expert Sherpas. This training will prepare you for the challenges of climbing Lhotse.

Day 12: Preparation Day for First Rotation

Today is focused on preparing for the first rotation up the mountain. This includes organizing equipment, final health checks, and mental preparation for the climb. Rest is also key as the next phase of the journey begins.

Days 13-26: Lhotse Climbing Period

Over the next two weeks, you will begin your ascent of Lhotse. This will involve rotations between camps for acclimatization, as well as the final push to the summit. Standing at 8,516 meters (27,940 ft), Lhotse is the fourth-highest mountain in the world, offering a thrilling and challenging climb.

Day 27: Celebration, Pack Up, and Rest

Following your successful climb of Lhotse, the day will be spent celebrating your achievement, packing up gear, and enjoying a well-deserved rest at Everest Base Camp. You’ll reflect on the incredible journey before heading back.

Day 28: Helicopter Flight Back to Kathmandu

After an unforgettable expedition, you’ll take a thrilling helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, bypassing the long trek back. This scenic flight provides one last opportunity to view the towering Himalayas from above.

Day 29: Leisure Day in Kathmandu and Official Documentation

Today is a leisure day in Kathmandu, allowing you to relax or explore the city further. You’ll also finalize official documentation and permits from the expedition, marking the successful completion of your climb.

Day 30: Final Departure

On the final day, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure. Leave Kathmandu with unforgettable memories of conquering one of the world’s highest peaks and the extraordinary landscapes of the Himalayas.

  • Arrival and Departure: Airport – Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu: 4 nights hotel in Kathmandu (3-star category) on bed & breakfast Sharing Basis (Twin Bed Room).
  • Permit: Expedition Royalty and permit of Nepal Government to climb Mt. Lhotse, Sagarmatha National Park permit, TIMS CARD & Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry Permit and its fee.
  • Khumbu Ice Fall Climbingcharge to (SPCC) Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee.
  • Liaison Officer:1 Government Liaison officer with full equipment ($2,500), salary and accommodation.
  • Garbage Management:Stool Shipment Transfer & Garbage Deposit fees.
  • Insurance:Medical & Emergency rescue Insurance for all involved Nepalese staffs during the trek and expedition.
  • Map:Trekking and climbing map.
  • Member transportation: (Domestic Flight) Fly from Kathmandu – Lukla and while returning Lukla – Kathmandu, as per itinerary
  • Expedition Stuffs Transportation:Necessary all equipment Transportation for all Members and Staffs from Kathmandu to Lukla (by air cargo) and to Base camp (by Porters / Yak) – While returning: Base camp to Lukla (by porters / Yak) and Lukla to Kathmandu (by air cargo). Based on the condition expedition stuffs may transfer by land (KTM-Phaplu) or Heli (KTM-Lukla).
  • Member Luggage:Up to 70 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carrying by porters or Yaks.
  • Food and Lodging: 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge/Tea house/during the trek and at Basecamp. Well-managed base camp set up for member & Staffs.
  • Porter:Porters per member up to Base camp from Lukla & Porters return from Base camp to Lukla.
  • Base Camp Staff:  Experienced and well-trained Base Camp Cook & kitchen Helpers as required.
  • Staff Salary and allowance:All Nepalese staffs & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, foods & clothing.
  • Base Camp Tent: Each member will have individual tent in Base Camp.
  • Base Camp equipment: At Base camp: foam mattresses and pillow per member, 1 Dinning Tent, 1 Kitchen Tent, 1 Communication tent, 1 Toilet & 1 Shower Tent, 1 Staffs Tent, 1 Tent for Nepalese base camp staffs, Store tents, Tables & chairs & all necessary cooking gears.
  • Heater:Heater for base camp in each Dining and other necessary camp.
  • Solar/Generator/Light:1 Solar panel and Generator for lights at base camp, battery charge, for laptop and other electronic devices.
  • High Altitude Climbing Sherpa: 1 veteran and Government Licensed per member.  (1 Member : 1 Sherpa).
  • Climbing Sherpa Salary & Allowance:Climbing Sherpa Salary, Equipment, Food And Clothing.
  • Bonus: Carry Bonus of Sherpas and Route Fixing Charges.
  • Oxygen Bottle (O2):Summit Oxygen cylinder: 3 oxygen bottles (4 ltrs.) for each member and 2-oxygen bottle for each high-altitude Sherpa. **
  • Oxygen Mask & Regulator: 1 Set of Summit Oxygen mask for each member and high-altitude Sherpa. **
  • Back up Oxygen Cylinder, mask and regulator (with appropriate charge).
  • Gamow Bag: 1 Rescue sled (Gamow bag) for emergency.
  • High camp service: High Altitude Tent, Necessary cooking EPI gas, cooking pot for member, High food for member, Sherpa, all climbing and cooking crew. (C1) (C2) (C3) (C4). Group climbing gears, fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period as required.
  • Rope Fixing Team: The team of experienced Sherpas will fix the route on Lhotse (no extra charge will be applied to members).
  • Satellite Phone for emergency communication carrying by Sherpa, also available for members with appropriate charge.
  • Walkie-Talkie: Walkie –Talkie for communicating from Base Camp to Mountain and Mountain to Base Camp.
  • Permit: Satellite Phone / walkie-talkie permit for all members and staffs.
  • Internet Service:Internet facility (1 Mbps) will be available at the Base Camp (subject to a charge).
  • Weather Forecast: Weather forecast report from Meteotest, Bern (Switzerland) during the entire expedition.
  • Comprehensive Medical kit for members and staffs.
  • Certificate:  Lhotse climbing certificate issued by MoCTCA (after climbing Mt. Lhotse successfully).

 

  • Air Fare: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
  • Nepal entry Visa fee: Nepali Visa fee US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 100).
  • Lunch & Dinner: Lunch & dinner in during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary).
  • Extra night in Kathmandu: Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
  • Insurance: Travel and high-altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
  • Rescue Evacuation: Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests and Hospitalization costs.)
  • Personal Expenses: Telephone, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu but we will serve all kinds of beverages for members in base camp).
  • Personal Equipment: Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking /Climbing Gears.
  • Toiletries: Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
  • Filming: Special Filming, Camera and Drone permit fee.
  • Internet Service: Not included during the trek.
  • Rope Fixing: The cost for using fixed rope during the expedition. (Applies to Basecamp member).
  • Summit Bonus: Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa- Minimum 1500 USD.
  • Tips: Calculate some tips for Basecamp staffs.
  • Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Any other item not listed in “Cost Includes” section

CLIMBING GEARS

  • ICE AXE WITH LEASH
  • CRAMPONS
  • CLIMBING HARNESS
  • CARABINERS
  • ASCENDER (JUMAR)
  • BELAY DEVICE
  • PRUSSIKS CORD
  • TREKKING POLES
  • HELMET
  • AVALANCHE TRANSRECEIVER

HEADWEAR

  • HEADLAMP (MIN. 200 LUMENS) WITH SUFFICIENT BATTERIES (LI-ION BATTERIES)
  • SUNGLASSES (POLARIZED/ UV PROTECTED)
  • WOOLEN CAP
  • SUNHAT
  • BUFF SCARF
  • BALACLAVA

BODYWEAR (CLOTHING/LAYERING)

  • DOWN SUIT
  • DOWN JACKET
  • DOWN PANT
  • GORE-TEX SET \ HARDSHELL SET
  • INSULATED MID LAYER
  • FLEECE JACKET
  • THERMAL SET
  • QUICK DRY (HALF AND FULL SLEEVED)
  • T-SHIRTS
  • TREKKING TROUSERS
  • ADDITIONAL AS PER NECESSITY

HANDWEAR

  • LINER GLOVES
  • FLEECE GLOVES
  • MITTENS (GORE-TEX)

FOOTWEAR

  • CLIMBING BOOTS (8000ER SERIES)
  • TREKKING SHOES
  • CAMP SHOES/ SLIPPERS
  • GAITERS
  • LINER SOCKS
  • WOOLEN SOCKS/ TREKKING SOCKS
  • SUMMIT SOCKS (8000ER SERIES)

PERSONAL KIT

  • SLEEPING BAG (-40 & -20)
  • TREKKING BACKPACK
  • HYGIENE KIT (TOILETRIES)
  • SUN SCREEN (MIN. 60 SPF)
  • LIP GUARD
  • WATER BOTTLE
  • THERMOS

FIRST AID KIT

  • PERSONAL MEDICATIONS
  • PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT

MISCELLANEOUS

  • CAMERA AND ASSOCIATED GEARS
  • CAMP KNIFE/ MULTI TOOLS
  • PEE BOTTLE/ POOP BAG
  • BINOCULARS/ MAGNIFIERS
  • PERSONAL READING ACCESSORIES
  • GAMES AND ENTERTAINMENT MEDIUM
  • DRY BAG/ COMPRESSION BAG
  • HAND/FOOT WARMERS
  • EMERGENCY BLANKETS