Complete Lobuche Peak Climbing Guide
Lobuche Peak
Lobuche Peak

Everything You Need To Know About Lobuche Peak

Lobuche Peak 6119m the stunning climbing peak that nestles right above Lobuche Village of Khumbu lies in the closest proximity of the world’s highest peak Everest. After the incredible Everest Base Camp Trek that highlights the base camp itself and Kala Patthar 5545m, the climbing escapade to the summit of Lobuche Peak begins.

Hence Lobuche Peak includes all the highlights of Everest Base Camp Trek. After the success of getting to all important landmarks of EBC Trek, we head towards the base camp of Lobuche Peak and eventually conquer its summit to add an extra thrill to our high altitude trip into the Himalayan wilderness.

Climbing Lobuche Peak could be an ideal start to Himalayan adventure as after the successful summit of this peak climbers tend to climb many other peaks in Khumbu & Nepalese Himalayas. The trek is based on teahouse but the climbing section after the trek is based on tented camps.

Trip Highlights

  • The surge of thrill is amazing while climbing the challenging Lobuche East Peak in the Everest region.
  • The peak can be scaled from two sides- Lobuche East and Lobuche West.
  • Visit the wonderful Sagarmatha National park and get to see the diverse flora and fauna.
  • Astonishing views of Mount Everest Himalayan range.

How to get to the Peak?

Primarily most of the trekkers take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to reach Lobuche but due to the rehabilitation work being carried out and domestic and international flights being disrupted the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has notified the airlines to reroute the flight to lukla from Manthali Airport of Ramechhap.

Another way of reaching Lobuche is through a  highway drive to Jiri/ Salleri heading toward the off-beaten trail taking you to the Salleri for Everest Trek. This is for those who enjoy slow travel and the bonus for slow travelling is until you get to Lukla, are less crowded, have spectacular views, and wonderful insights into the Solu Sherpa culture.

Minimum and Maximum Time frame of the Trek?

Well this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 6-7 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in  17 days. But this journey is very strenuous as it takes 22 days trek(Max) and compacts it for a shorter trek which eventually hikes up the trekking hours per day. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and want to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 20 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.

Budget Required For Lobuche Peak Trek

Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally the cost ranges from anywhere around  US $2000 to US $3500. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.

Necessary Permits Required

Update: Oct 1st 2018 TIMS Card is no longer valid for Everest Region

With decentralization a new permit system has been implemented on Everest Region. You will no longer required a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card.

The necessary permits required for trekking to Lobuche Peak are :

  1. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit(New one)
  2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Necessary Documents for Permit?

You just need your passport details for Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality and Sagarmatha National Park Entrance Permit. You will need two photos for the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project Entry Permit and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.

How is Lobuche Peak is on each Season?

Although it is possible to trek on Lobuche Peak  throughout the year on any given seasons but the best time to visit the peak  is in the Spring and Autumn.As during the autumn season, the weather tends to be relatively stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. And during Spring the weather is quite clear and the peaks are often visible and the temperature is warm and just ideal for a trek.

Spring Season(April-May):

The spring months are probably the most popular in the region as a whole. You might be caught in the occasional snow showers if you catch the end of the winter season, but the weather should be largely stable and dry- perfect for trekking and high altitude climbing.

Autumn Season(September-November):

Clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period. Although colder days(and colder nights) are to be expected, this is a small price to pay for the wonderful vistas and perfect views of the region peaks. And added bonus of trekking during this time is the option to choose some other, less well-known routes in the area that still offer amazing views but without the hustle and bustle of the more popular routes.

Winter Season(Dec-Feb):

The region during this period can best be described as being very cold but still is trekkable. The days will be shorter and there is a lot more snow, thus routes that involve crossing big passes like the three passes trek are usually closed.The weather will be fairly stable and dry.

Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August):

Summer may sound like the prime time to visit the peak, but it is also monsoon season during which the mountain can receive large amounts of rainfall. During the monsoon season, the  peak is, more often than not, shrouded in mist. Although a trek is doable during this season, it is quite difficult as the slippery trails, leeches and the lack of mountain views are just about enough reasons in off-putting most trekkers from trekking.

Lobuche Peak Trek Difficulty

It’s not a plain walking surface and like most typical treks in Nepal there’s a lot of going up and down and peak climbing are usually challenging. The distance you cover does not require super fitness, the altitude does however make it tough. And also having a strong mind set is also very important while trekking in these parts of the mountains. Lobuche Peak Trek is influenced by; your pack weight, a porter can make it much easier and season, if you’re cold and miserable then it is definitely harder.

To sum it up you will be walking 5 to 8 hours a day for 20 days, with a resting day or two for acclimatization. If you are reasonably fit you should be able to do this to carry your own backpack.

Tipping Guide/Porter

In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly.

Is Internet/Electricity Available in the Lobuche Peak Trek?

One can buy internet as there is a service called Everest Link through which one can get certain data package for a certain amount of money and after the purchase of the data pack one can get access to the internet in most parts of the region. But be warned that the signal often goes down and you will lose signal depending on where you are on the trail. As the elevation also factors in good signal strength of the mobile and internet signals.

As for electricity for charging electrical devices there are proper electricity in Lukla, Phakding, Namche and Tengboche. You can charge your batteries with solar devices in Pheriche, Labuche and Gorakshep. However it is better to charge as much as possible till tengboche and have enough back up for further up as charging facilities depends upon weather higher up.

Some Hotel facilitate charging in room itself without extra cost. While in other they charge 300 to 400 per battery per hour.

Necessity of Insurance:

While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.

Insurance Policy:

Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.

Preventing Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on the Everest Base Camp trek and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:

  1. Hydration– Drink plenty of water, it’s very important to stay hydrated.
  2. Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
  3. Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
  4. Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol,cigarettes and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
  5. Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.

Alternatives to Lobuche Peak Treks?

Apart from Lobuche Peak trek there are other plenty trekking options that one might like to consider as the Annapurna region is itself is a very beautiful and adventurous place. Here are some few of the best trekking alternatives apart from Lobuche Peak.

  • Ganesh Himal(Ruby Valley Trek)
    • Newly explored trekking trails
    • Amazing views of the central Himalayas of Nepal
    • Ruby mines in the mountains
    • Unique and rich cultures of Tamang and Gurung people
    • Natural hot spring
    • Beautiful waterfalls, gorges, stone mills, and suspension bridges
  • Ghorepani Poonhil Trek
    • Moderate and the most popular short trek of Nepal
    • Ghandruk village and the stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
    • Ghandruk museum which showcases traditional Gurung equipment, tools, and weapons
  • Langtang Valley Trek
    • Chance to delve into Tibetan-influenced culture
    • View of Mt. Langtang Lirung, Langshisha, Ganja La Pass
    • Diverse flora and fauna
    • Friendly and amazing people
    • Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, and Buddhist temples
  • Annapurna Base camp
    • Visit Annapurna and Machhapuchhere base camp
    • Scenic hike across typical Gurung villages
    • A hot bath in natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda
    • Adventure lodge to lodge trek to the Annapurna region.
    • Splendid views of Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Mt Fishtail and Annapurna I
    • Spectacular glacier and mountain views from Annapurna Base Camp
  • Everest Base Camp
    • Trek to the foot of breathtaking Everest, the world’s highest mountain.
    • Set out on challenging hikes to Kala Pattar (18,192′), Nangkartshang Peak (16,672′). and Everest Base Camp (17,590′).
    • Explore Sherpa villages and the ancient Thami and Tengboche monasteries.
    • Visit a school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in the mountain village of Khumjung.
  • Gokyo Valley
    • Trek to Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo RI
    • Visiting All of the high valleys of the Khumbu with extra time
    • Soaring views of the most popular mountains in Nepal
    • Cultural Wonders of Everest Region

Required Equipment

This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack what is necessary.

Important documents and items:

  • Valid passport, 2extra passport size photos, airline tickets
  • Separate photocopies of passport, visa form( easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
  • Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines(bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.

Personal Climbing Gears:

  • 1 Ice axe
  • 1 Crampons
  • 1 Harness
  • 2 Tape slings.
  • Screwgate karabiners (2 lock, 2 unlock).
  • 1 Descender/eight figure.
  • 1 Plastic mountaineering boots.
  • 1 Ascender/Jhumar.
  • 1 Helmet.

Group Climbing Gears

  • Snow bar
  • Rope
  • Ice hammer
  • Ice screw

Head

  • Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
  • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Prescription sunglasses (if required)

Upper Body

  • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

Hands

  • 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
  • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
  • 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

Lower Body

  • Non-cotton underwear briefs
  • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of Hiking trousers
  • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • 1 pair of fleece or wool trousers
  • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

Feet                               

  • 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
  • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
  • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, “broken-in”)
  • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
  • Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version

Sleeping

  • 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)

Rucksack and Travel Bags

  • 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
  • 1 large duffel bag
  • A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
  • Small padlocks for duffle-kit bags
  • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

Medical

  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
  • 1 skin-blister repair kit
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Anti-headache pills
  • Cough and/or cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
  • Water purification tablets or the water filter
  • 1 set of earplugs
  • Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies

Practical Items

  • 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
  • 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
  • 1 compass or GPS(optional)
  • 1 alarm clock/watch
  • 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
  • large Ziplocs
  • 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
  • 1 small folding knife
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks

Toiletries

  • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene products
  • Small mirror

Personal Hygiene

  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue /toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial handwash

 Extras/Luxuries

  • Reading book
  • Trail map/guide book
  • Journal and pen
  • iPod
  • Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at tea- houses and/or camps)
  • 1 modest swimsuit
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
  • Lightweight   (in case your tea houses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow

So, if the above mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.

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