Lhotse Expedition
Lhotse — Everest’s towering neighbor and a Himalayan giant of challenge and beauty.
Expedition Overview
What is the Lhotse Expedition?
Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft) is the fourth highest mountain in the world, rising directly above the Everest South Col on the Nepal–Tibet border in the Khumbu region. Its name means South Peak in Tibetan, a reference to its position directly south of Everest along the same massif. First climbed on 18 May 1956 by Ernst Reiss and Fritz Luchsinger of the Swiss Himalayan Expedition, Lhotse is one of the most technically demanding 8,000m peaks — its defining feature, the Lhotse Face, is a 1,125-metre wall of blue ice at 40–55 degrees standing between the Western Cwm and the South Col.
Although Lhotse and Everest share a Base Camp, Lhotse is a far more serious technical undertaking than its famous neighbour. While Everest attracts hundreds of clients per season, Lhotse sees only a fraction — largely because the Lhotse Face, the Geneva Spur, and the Couloir above 8,200m require genuine technical competence on steep ice and mixed terrain. AltiPro's Lhotse Expedition follows the standard South Face Route, ascending from Base Camp at 5,364m through three high camps on the Lhotse Face to the summit at 8,516m.
The AltiPro Lhotse Expedition 2027 is a 55-day spring expedition departing Kathmandu in late March 2027, trekking to Everest Base Camp via the classic Khumbu Valley route through Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. A maximum of 8 climbers are accepted, with a 1:1 Climbing Sherpa ratio, supplemental oxygen for all climbers from Camp 3, and an Expedition Doctor at Base Camp throughout the season. Prior high-altitude experience at 7,000m or above is required.
About Lhotse — The South Peak
Lhotse is inseparable from Everest in geography but entirely distinct as a climbing objective. The mountain connects to Everest at the South Col at 7,906m, and the approach to both summits follows the same route through the Khumbu Icefall and Western Cwm. At Camp 3, however, the routes diverge — Everest climbers head left toward the South Col and Southeast Ridge, while Lhotse climbers press straight up the near-vertical Lhotse Face through the Couloir to the summit at 8,516m.
The Lhotse Face is one of the most iconic and formidable features in Himalayan mountaineering — a vast sheet of blue glacial ice demanding continuous front-pointing and ice axe technique for over a kilometre of vertical gain. Above the Couloir, the final 300 metres to the summit involve mixed rock and ice terrain that has turned back many experienced climbers even in ideal conditions.
Why Choose AltiPro Adventures for Lhotse?
Technical Route Expertise
The Lhotse Face demands ice climbing skill rarely required on other 8,000m peaks. AltiPro's Lhotse guides and Climbing Sherpas are selected specifically for their technical ability on steep ice and mixed terrain above 7,000m.
Shared Everest Infrastructure
Lhotse and Everest share Base Camp, the Khumbu Icefall route, and the Western Cwm approach. AltiPro's established infrastructure in this zone means pre-fixed ropes, experienced icefall teams, and a fully equipped Base Camp facility from day one.
Maximum Oxygen Support
All climbers receive supplemental oxygen from Camp 3 on the Lhotse Face (7,200m) onwards. Each climber is allocated four oxygen cylinders with a dedicated Sherpa carrier, and additional reserves are pre-positioned at Camp 3 and the Couloir.
Small, Focused Teams
AltiPro limits Lhotse teams to 8 climbers with a 1:1 Climbing Sherpa ratio. Smaller teams move more efficiently on the demanding Lhotse Face and Couloir, where speed and precision directly reduce risk for every member of the group.
Safety and Medical Support
A qualified Expedition Doctor is stationed at Base Camp throughout the climbing season. Daily health checks, Gamow Bags, and coordinated rescue protocols with Everest Base Camp medical teams provide the highest standard of care available on the mountain.
Classic Khumbu Approach
The approach to Lhotse Base Camp via Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche is one of the most iconic mountain walks on Earth, with Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and the Everest massif forming a backdrop unmatched anywhere in the Himalayas.
The South Face Route (8,516 m)
The Standard South Face Route follows the same path as Everest from Base Camp through the Khumbu Icefall, Western Cwm, and Lhotse Face to Camp 3, then diverges directly up the Lhotse Couloir to the summit. The route gains 3,152 vertical metres from Base Camp at 5,364m to the summit at 8,516m through three high camps.
Khumbu Valley Approach — Lukla to Everest Base Camp (2,840m to 5,364m)
A 10–12 day approach trek from Lukla passes through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep. The approach serves as the primary acclimatisation tool before the first rotation above Base Camp and offers unmatched views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and the Everest massif.
Base Camp through the Khumbu Icefall to Camp 1 (5,364m to 6,065m)
The route from Base Camp climbs the Khumbu Icefall — the most objectively hazardous section of the entire route — through a maze of seracs and crevasses to the Western Cwm. Crossings are timed for the early pre-dawn hours when ice stability is greatest. Camp 1 sits on the cwm floor at the top of the Icefall.
Camp 1 to Camp 2 — Western Cwm (6,065m to 6,400m)
The route crosses the Western Cwm, a broad glacial valley flanked by the South Face of Everest and the West Ridge of Lhotse. Camp 2 at the foot of the Lhotse Face serves as the main Advanced Base Camp for both Lhotse and Everest expeditions.
Camp 2 to Camp 3 — The Lhotse Face (6,400m to 7,200m)
The defining section of the route: 1,125 metres of blue glacial ice at 40–55 degrees requiring continuous front-pointing and confident ice axe technique throughout. Fixed ropes protect the entire section. Camp 3 is perched on a small ice terrace cut into the face.
Camp 3 to Summit — Lhotse Couloir and Summit Pyramid (7,200m to 8,516m)
Above Camp 3, the route enters the Lhotse Couloir — a steep gully of mixed snow, ice, and rock leading to the summit band. The final 300 metres involve challenging mixed terrain requiring technical competence even in good conditions. Supplemental oxygen is used from Camp 3 to the summit.
How Difficult is the Lhotse Expedition?
Lhotse is rated Extreme / Technical. Despite sharing infrastructure with Everest, it is significantly more technically demanding — the Lhotse Face and Couloir require a standard of ice climbing that exceeds what is needed on the Everest Southeast Ridge. The summit pyramid above 8,200m presents one of the most demanding final approaches on any 8,000m peak. AltiPro requires climbers to have prior experience on high-altitude technical terrain above 7,000m with a strong background on steep ice and mixed ground.
Best Season for the Lhotse Expedition
Spring (April–May): The only viable season for a Lhotse summit attempt. Rotations through the Khumbu Icefall and Lhotse Face are completed throughout April, with the summit push targeting the second and third weeks of May when the jet stream lifts from the summit and stable 36–48 hour weather windows become available.
Why not autumn: Unlike some other 8,000m peaks, Lhotse is not realistically attempted in autumn. The Lhotse Face conditions deteriorate significantly after the monsoon, and the narrow weather windows available in October rarely extend to the technical upper mountain. Spring is the only AltiPro operating season for this peak.
Lhotse Expedition Cost
Full-service Lhotse expedition — all permits, Icefall Doctors fee, oxygen, and Sherpa support included.
Includes all ground logistics from Kathmandu to Base Camp and return, government permit fees for Lhotse, trekking and climbing Sherpa wages, the Icefall Doctors fee, base camp and high camp equipment, supplemental oxygen for all climbers from Camp 3, a 1:1 Climbing Sherpa ratio, and an on-site Expedition Doctor. International flights, personal climbing gear, and summit bonuses are not included. Contact AltiPro for a full cost breakdown.
Lhotse Expedition — Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about climbing Lhotse with AltiPro Adventures.
What experience is required for the Lhotse Expedition?
Lhotse requires genuine technical competence on steep ice. AltiPro requires prior experience on peaks above 7,000m with a strong background in ice and mixed terrain. The Lhotse Face is one of the most demanding features on any 8,000m route and is not suitable for first-time high-altitude climbers.
Does Lhotse share Base Camp with Everest?
Yes. Lhotse and Everest share the same Base Camp at 5,364m on the Khumbu Glacier, the same Khumbu Icefall approach, and Camp 1 and Camp 2 positions in the Western Cwm. The routes diverge at Camp 3, where Lhotse climbers head straight up the Lhotse Face rather than left toward the South Col.
Is supplemental oxygen used on the Lhotse Expedition?
Yes. All climbers receive supplemental oxygen from Camp 3 at 7,200m onwards. Four cylinders are allocated per climber with dedicated Sherpa oxygen support, and additional cylinders are pre-positioned in the Couloir above Camp 3.
How dangerous is the Khumbu Icefall?
The Khumbu Icefall is the most objectively hazardous section of the route, with active serac collapse and crevasse risk. AltiPro follows the route fixed by the Icefall Doctors at the start of each season and schedules all crossings in the early pre-dawn hours when temperatures are lowest and ice stability is at its highest.
What makes the Lhotse Face so demanding?
The Lhotse Face is a near-vertical wall of blue glacial ice at 40–55 degrees extending over 1,125 vertical metres. It requires continuous front-pointing on crampons and confident ice axe technique for the entire ascent. The sustained angle, altitude, and exposure make it one of the most demanding sections on any 8,000m peak.
When does the Lhotse Expedition 2027 depart?
The AltiPro Lhotse Expedition 2027 departs Kathmandu in late March 2027. The 12-day approach trek is followed by rotations through the Icefall and Lhotse Face throughout April, targeting the summit window in mid-May.
What is included in the expedition cost?
The cost covers all ground logistics, the Lhotse permit fee, the Icefall Doctors fee, trekking and climbing Sherpa support, base camp and high camp equipment, supplemental oxygen from Camp 3, and the Expedition Doctor. International flights, personal gear, and summit bonuses are not included.
Is there medical support at Base Camp?
Yes. A qualified Expedition Doctor is at Base Camp throughout the climbing season. AltiPro's Everest Base Camp is one of the best-equipped in the Himalayas, with access to shared medical resources across the Everest and Lhotse expedition community.
Detailed Itinerary
Click on each day to view details
| Day | Program | Meals | Accom. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m) | Breakfast | Hotel | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel.
2 – 3
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Kathmandu — Briefing, Permits & Gear Check |
Breakfast |
Hotel |
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Expedition briefing, full gear check, official permit processing, and last-minute shopping in Kathmandu.
4
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Fly Kathmandu → Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,610m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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35-minute flight to Lukla (2,840m), then trek down to Phakding for the first night on the trail.
5
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Trek Phakding → Namche Bazaar (3,440m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge and pass through the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint en route to Namche Bazaar.
6
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Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar (3,440m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Rest day with an acclimatization hike to the Everest View Hotel and Khumjung village.
7
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Trek Namche Bazaar → Tengboche (3,860m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Trek to Tengboche Monastery with full views of the Everest-Lhotse-Nuptse wall.
8
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Trek Tengboche → Dingboche (4,360m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Enter the upper Imja Khola valley on the approach to the high Khumbu.
9
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Acclimatization Day at Dingboche (4,360m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Rest day with an acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Gompa ridge (4,750m).
10
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Trek Dingboche → Lobuche (4,940m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Cross Thukla Pass and pass the Khumbu memorials ridge on the way to Lobuche.
11
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Trek Lobuche → Gorakshep → Lhotse/Everest Base Camp (5,364m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Pass through Gorakshep and arrive at Lhotse/Everest Base Camp, pre-established by the AltiPro advance Sherpa team.
12
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Puja Ceremony & Icefall Safety Training |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Puja ceremony at Base Camp followed by a rope-fixing briefing, Khumbu Icefall safety training, and final gear check.
13
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Rest & Acclimatization at Base Camp (5,364m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Rest day at Base Camp for the body to adjust to 5,364m and for final gear organisation.
14 – 16
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1st Rotation — Base Camp through Khumbu Icefall to Camp I (6,100m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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First acclimatization rotation: cross the Khumbu Icefall to Camp I overnight, then descend to Base Camp. Confirms ladder and fixed-rope techniques.
17 – 18
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Rest & Recovery at Base Camp |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Full rest at Base Camp with Expedition Doctor O₂ saturation review and medical check.
19 – 21
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2nd Rotation — Camp I to Camp II / Advanced Base Camp (6,400m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Second rotation: Camp I to Camp II in the Western Cwm overnight, then return to Base Camp. First overnight above 6,000m establishes the acclimatization response.
22 – 24
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Rest Days at Base Camp — Weather Monitoring |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Rest days with 6-hourly summit-specific weather forecast reviews and ongoing route condition monitoring.
25 – 27
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3rd Rotation — Camp II to Camp III on the Lhotse Face (7,100m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Third rotation: technical climb up the Lhotse Face to Camp III overnight, then return to Base Camp. Expedition Doctor reviews O₂ saturation for summit clearance.
28 – 30
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Full Rest at Base Camp — Final Preparations |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Final gear confirmation and oxygen cache verification at all high camps. Summit weather window closely monitored.
31
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Summit Bid — Base Camp through Khumbu Icefall to Camp I (6,100m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Begin the summit push by crossing the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp to Camp I.
32
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Summit Bid — Camp I through Western Cwm to Camp II / ABC (6,400m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Traverse the Western Cwm from Camp I to Camp II. Rest and prepare for the Lhotse Face.
33
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Summit Bid — Camp II up Lhotse Face to Camp III (7,100m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Climb the Lhotse Face to Camp III, passing the Yellow Band and Geneva Spur.
34
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Summit Bid — Camp III to Camp IV (7,950m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Move to the final high camp above the Geneva Spur on the upper Lhotse Face. Oxygen begins. Pre-midnight rest.
35
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Summit Day — Lhotse (8,516m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Pre-midnight departure from Camp IV via the Reiss Couloir to the summit of Lhotse (8,516m / 27,940ft). Descend to Camp II.
36
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Descend to Base Camp — Summit Celebration |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Full descent from Camp II to Base Camp followed by a post-summit celebration with the full Sherpa team.
37
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Rest & Recovery at Base Camp |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Full rest day at Base Camp for post-summit recovery.
38
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Base Camp Cleanup & Departure Preparation |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Tent |
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Base Camp cleanup and packing of all expedition equipment for the descent.
39
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Trek Base Camp → Gorakshep → Lobuche (4,940m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Begin the descent from Base Camp, passing through Gorakshep and down to Lobuche.
40
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Trek Lobuche → Dingboche (4,360m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Descent below 5,000m as the body begins to recover rapidly at lower altitude.
41
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Trek Dingboche → Namche Bazaar (3,440m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Long descent to Namche Bazaar — the first tree line in weeks reappears.
42
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Trek Namche Bazaar → Lukla (2,840m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Lodge |
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Final day of trekking down to Lukla for the return flight to Kathmandu.
43
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Fly Lukla → Kathmandu (1,350m) |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Hotel |
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Flight back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel for rest.
44
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Celebration Day in Kathmandu |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Hotel |
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Summit certificates presented and farewell dinner with the full expedition team in Kathmandu.
45 – 50
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Buffer Days — Weather & Logistics Reserve |
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner |
Hotel |
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Buffer days held for weather delays, a second summit window, or flight disruptions on the Lukla route.
51
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Final Departure from Kathmandu |
Breakfast |
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Transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport for onward international flights.
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Services
Includes
- ✅ Airport pick-up and drop for all international and domestic flights
- ✅ 4 nights 4-star hotel in Kathmandu (BB) — 2 nights pre-expedition, 2 nights post-expedition
- ✅ Welcome dinner and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- ✅ Domestic flights: Kathmandu ↔ Lukla (round trip) for all team members and expedition staff
- ✅ All expedition staff transport: Kathmandu – Lhotse Base Camp – Kathmandu
- ✅ Yaks and porters: Lukla to Lhotse/Everest Base Camp and back — all expedition equipment
- ✅ Full board accommodation at all teahouses and lodges during the trek to and from Base Camp
- ✅ Personal climbing equipment transfer: Kathmandu – Lhotse Base Camp – Kathmandu (60 kg per member)
- ✅ Lhotse expedition royalty fee and all official Nepal government documentation
- ✅ Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
- ✅ Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry permit
- ✅ Khumbu Icefall route fee and summit route fixing charge
- ✅ Garbage management and environmental deposit fee
- ✅ One official Nepal Government Liaison Officer for the full expedition duration
- ✅ Nepal government taxes and company service charges
- ✅ Full expedition planning, coordination, and on-ground management
- ✅ Experienced Base Camp Manager on-site for the full season
- ✅ Pre-expedition briefing pack in Kathmandu
- ✅ One walkie-talkie per Climbing Sherpa and Expedition Leader during all climbing phases
- ✅ Daily professional weather forecast service — 6-hourly Lhotse summit-specific updates throughout
- ✅ Satellite phone at Base Camp for emergency use (minimal per-call charge applies)
- ✅ Three freshly cooked meals per day (BLD) at Lhotse Base Camp with hot drinks — tea and coffee
- ✅ Fresh vegetables, meat, fruits, and juice restocked throughout the season
- ✅ Heated dining tent with tables and chairs at Base Camp
- ✅ AltiPro Café at Base Camp — coffee and bakery items served daily
- ✅ Private sleeping tent with mattress and pillow for every climber and staff member
- ✅ Generator for charging electronic devices at Base Camp
- ✅ Internet service at Base Camp (minimal charge)
- ✅ Sleeping tents at all high camps — Camps I, II, III, IV (2 members per tent)
- ✅ High-altitude food at all camps: muesli, porridge, noodles, rice, soups, dry fruits, chocolate and snacks
- ✅ MSR stoves, cooking sets, EPI gas, shovels, and extra ropes at all high camps
- ✅ Common climbing equipment: fixed ropes, ice screws, aluminium ladder bridges, ice bars, and anchoring hardware
- ✅ Icefall Doctor fees and Khumbu Icefall rope-fixing team costs — fully included
- ✅ One dedicated Climbing Sherpa per climber — 1:1 ratio, guaranteed throughout
- ✅ All Climbing Sherpa, cook, kitchen helper, and Liaison Officer wages and allowances
- ✅ Insurance for all Climbing Sherpas, cooks, Liaison Officer, and local porters
- ✅ Backup Sherpas on standby for substitution if required (extra charge if deployed)
- ✅ 5 oxygen cylinders (4-litre) per climber
- ✅ 2 oxygen cylinders (4-litre) per Climbing Sherpa
- ✅ Summit mask and regulator set for every climber and Climbing Sherpa
- ✅ Emergency oxygen at Base Camp and all high camps (extra charge if usage exceeds allocation)
- ✅ Gamow Bag (portable hyperbaric chamber) on standby at Base Camp
- ✅ Expedition Doctor stationed at Base Camp for the full climbing season
- ✅ Helicopter and rescue team on standby for the full expedition duration
- ✅ Puja ceremony at Base Camp before climbing begins
- ✅ AltiPro expedition T-shirt and Lhotse summit certificate
Excludes
- ❌ International flight tickets to and from your home country
- ❌ Nepal entry visa fee — obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport
- ❌ Personal climbing gear, clothing, and footwear
- ❌ Personal satellite messenger device (Garmin inReach or similar)
- ❌ Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except the included welcome and farewell dinners)
- ❌ Personal expenses: drinks, laundry, telephone, and Wi-Fi at lodges
- ❌ Travel, medical, and high-altitude helicopter rescue insurance (Min. USD 100,000) — mandatory for all participants
- ❌ Summit bonus: USD 2,000 per Climbing Sherpa and USD 500 for kitchen helpers — to be paid in cash at Base Camp after a successful ascent
- ❌ Tips for trek guides, yak herders, and porters
- ❌ Extra costs due to personal baggage exceeding 60 kg
- ❌ Drone and special filming permit fees
- ❌ Costs incurred due to flight delays, cancellations, or political disruptions
Departure
From
Apr 13, 2026
To
Jun 09, 2026
Gear Lists & Useful Information
Route Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about this expedition
Yes, Sherpas are provided with the package and the ratio is 1:1. However, additional Sherpas can be provided based on the request.
The Lhotse Expedition is an extremely demanding undertaking. It requires high physical fitness, mental strength, and advanced technical skills for the Lhotse Face and Reiss Couloir. While the Khumbu Icefall is the most objectively dangerous section, the extreme altitude and steep ice slopes make the climb difficult. AltiPro ensures a safe experience through expert Sherpa assistance and structured acclimatization.
The Lhotse Expedition takes around 50 days in total, starting from the arrival in Kathmandu and ending with the return.
Lhotse is generally not recommended as a first 8000m peak. It is best suited for experienced climbers who are technically proficient and have prior experience on high-altitude mountains with icefall and fixed-rope management.
Yes, we require documented climbing experience above 7,000 meters. Proficiency in fixed-rope management, ladder crossings, and crampon technique on 40–60 degree ice is essential.
The major risks include objective hazards in the Khumbu Icefall, avalanches on the Lhotse Face, altitude sickness, extreme cold, and technical fall hazards in the Reiss Couloir at extreme altitude.
The best time is the spring season, during April and May. We target the summit push for the second half of May, when the jet stream has moved north and the most stable 48-hour weather windows typically appear.
Here are the main permit fees and required government permits if you want to climb Lhotse from Nepal:
- Climbing Permit for Lhotse This is the official permit issued by the Nepal Government (MoCTCA) to attempt the summit of Lhotse. Permit fee for foreign climbers:
- Spring Season (March to May): ~$1,800 USD/person
- Autumn Season (Sept to Nov): ~$900 USD/person
- Winter/Monsoon Season: ~$450 USD/person Please note: The permit fee is only a license or royalty to climb Lhotse. You must pay extra costs for the full expedition.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit This permit is required for all climbers and trekkers entering the protected Khumbu region.
- For Foreigners: NPR 3,000 (~$30 USD)
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit This is a mandatory local government permit for operations within the Khumbu region.
- Cost: NPR 2,000 (~$20 USD)
- Khumbu Icefall Route Fee A fixed fee payable to the Expedition Operators Association of Nepal (EOAN) for the maintenance and management of the route through the Khumbu Icefall by the "Icefall Doctors."
Safety is our top priority. We ensure internationally recognized standards are implemented to minimize risks:
- Experienced Leadership & Sherpa Support: Led by veteran leaders with a guaranteed 1:1 Climbing Sherpa ratio for every member.
- Pre-Dawn Icefall Protocol: Crossings are scheduled for 3:00–4:00 AM when temperatures are lowest and ice is most stable.
- Careful Acclimatization Schedule: A non-compressible three-rotation program to allow gradual adaptation to high altitude.
- Health Monitoring & Medical Support: An on-site Expedition Doctor stationed at Base Camp with daily oxygen saturation checks.
- Fixed Ropes & Route Preparation: Our team pre-installs ropes on the Lhotse Face and Reiss Couloir before the first rotation.
- Supplemental Oxygen & Backup Systems: 5 oxygen cylinders per climber with backups pre-positioned at high camps.
- Weather Monitoring & Summit Timing: Summit-specific forecasts updated every six hours to identify the safest 48-hour windows.
- Emergency & Evacuation Planning: Pre-arranged helicopter rescue coordination and an on-site Gamow Bag at Base Camp.
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