Embarking on a legendary and intricately orchestrated expedition, we are thrust into the realm of mountaineering, a realm far removed from mere trekking. Our unwavering dedication is set upon conquering the formidable "3 passes": Amphu Laptsa standing at an imposing 5,850 meters, the West Col towering at 6,143 meters, famously pioneered by Shipton in 1951, and the Sherpani at 6,135 meters, offering a slightly less daunting alternative to the East Col, granting access to the coveted Makalu base camp. Negotiating this treacherous terrain often demands the utilization of fixed ropes and abseiling techniques, as we navigate through a landscape blanketed in glacial ice and pristine snow, intimately acquainted with the formidable peaks that loom overhead.
Our descent from the Makalu base camp follows the illustrious Shipton Trail, weaving through rugged terrain fraught with challenges and rewards alike. Each step forward is a testament to our resilience and determination, as we immerse ourselves in the raw beauty and unforgiving majesty of the Himalayas. With every passing moment, we are reminded of the sheer magnitude of our endeavor, a test of both physical prowess and mental fortitude.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our local team warmly welcomes you at the airport. You will then be escorted to the hotel, where you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. The itinerary includes a briefing about the trek's progress and presentation, followed by leisure time. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have the entire day at your disposal. This can be used for rest or for those interested, to explore the surroundings freely. It's an ideal chance to deeply experience Nepalese culture and indulge in the local culinary delights.
Transfer to hotel
Final altitude: approximately 1350 m
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: night in the hotel
We take advantage of this moment to take stock with the expedition manager about the equipment taken. If necessary, the numerous mountain equipment shops in Thamel can help you complete our equipment. Meanwhile, our local team is working to complete essential paperwork and climbing permits.Accompanying persons will be able to take tours of Kathmandu.
Meals: breakfasts – free lunches (not included) – free dinners (not included)
Accommodation: nights at the hotel
We leave Kathmandu in the morning for a superb flight to Lukla where we meet our porters who share the loads. Gentle descent then small climb along the Dudh Kosi (milk river in Nepali) to Phakding.
flight about 25 minutes
about 3 hours of trek
Altitude different: + 100 m / - 300 m
Final altitude: approximately 2,610 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in lodge
We travel up the Dudh Kosi River, with the magnificent Himalayan pines lining our route. Several bridges make us change banks as the river meanders. Steep climb to the capital of Khumbu (the Sherpa country). On the way we admire Thamserku and from time to time we see Everest. At Namche Bazar, visit the village, very picturesque. You can wander the streets of this village built like an amphitheater.
6 hours of trek
Altitude different: + 1,000 m / - 350 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,440 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in lodge
We climb into a small forest and admire for the first time the high peaks of Khumbu (Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam), we arrive in the villages of Kunde and Khumjung. It may be possible to visit the Hillary High School and the Kunde Hospital built at Hillary's initiative.
3 hours of trek
Altitude different: + 420 m / - 20 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,780 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in lodge
Very beautiful day, quiet walk with beautiful views of the Himalayan range, we are starting to be acclimatized. Crossing the Dudh Khloa, we are at the foot of Thamserku (6,608 m) and Kangtega (6,685 m).
3 hours OF trek
Altitude different: + 220 m / - 180 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,810 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in lodge
We continue the gradual climb into Khumbu. It is advisable to walk slowly to have the best possible acclimatization.
5 hours trek
Altitude different: + 450 m / - 150 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,960 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in lodge
Vegetation begins to become scarce from 4,000 meters. We go up along the moraines of the Khumbu glacier - Some alpine villages line our route and the last yaks still hang out here and there, before going down to the villages to spend the winter.
5 hours trek
Altitude different: + 400 m / - 100m
Final altitude: approximately 4,400 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in lodge
After the mountain pastures and the Tulka ridge, we arrive at the foot of the Lobuche peak, before us the Nuptse and the Pumori are revealed.
5 hours trek
Final Altitude: approximately 4,730 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
rest before starting the key point of the crossing. It should be remembered that the Amphu Laptsa pass is obligatory to leave Khumbu. It is entirely possible to leave this region, but it would take so many days that reaching Kangchenjunga would be unrealistic...
approximately 4,730 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
A short descent, then a bridge and it is time to start the climb which will take us to the Amphu Laptsa base camp. The Ama Dablam disappears from our view well before following a small lake. The camp is well hidden in a recess and the water is some distance away. All we have to do now is try to find where our pass of tomorrow is located.
5 hours trek
Altitude different: + 650 m
Final altitude: approximately 5,300 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in tent
Once we have crossed a small place of fine sand, some traces point us towards the pass. These tend to disappear, but following a set of tracks we gain height before reaching a small platform where we must stop. Our guide will have to place a rope on a belay placed above a granite rock. Once past this barrier, the path becomes easy again and propels us directly onto the ridge. Ama Dablam reappears, beautiful east face. A set of snow/ice ledges allows you to descend quickly. Depending on the snow conditions, it may be necessary to lay a piece of rope to reach the rock. From there, one last effort and the camp is there in front of us. Well deserved rest.
7hrs of trek
Altitude different: + 650 m / - 400 m
Final altitude: approximately 5,500 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in tent
The path is “cairned”, but as luck would have it, it still ends up disappearing. We leave a large lake on our right to head towards an immense glacial moraine. You have to find the best descent to get back on the other side. In the distance, we see the camp where multiple tents are crowded together which serve as a base camp for the ascent of Baruntse. The West pass is becoming clearly visible, all that remains is to cut it tomorrow. Take the time to go have something to drink at the improbable guesthouse.
6 hours trek
Altitude different: + 250 m / - 300 m
Final altitude: approximately 5,430 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in tent
After another night at more than 5,000 meters, we follow the lake to continue over a few bumps that we have to pass. They bring us to the foot of a large face of snow that we will have to go back up. Using the fixed ropes, we finally reach the West Col which opens the doors to the immense basin of the Lower Barun glacier. This is where we will set up camp. The night will be cold, but the sunset over Makalu, which seems so close, will warm us up as much as possible….
6 hours trek
Altitude different: + 750 m / - 100 m
Final altitude: approximately 6,100 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in tent
Two options are available to us. Take the classic Sherpani passage or use the pass opened by Laurent Boiveau, a little further to the east. In the first case, you will have to unwind the ropes which allow you to descend towards the Sherpani base camp. A route of rock and snow. In the second case, you will have to continue to climb a little after crossing the glacier to reach a well-hidden pass which allows you to descend without difficulty, returning to the old route of the East pass. All that remains is to reach the Swiss base camp, making the best use of the terrain of the glacier.
7hrs of trek
Altitude different: + 200m / - 600 m
Final altitude: approximately 5,450 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in tent
In both cases, we reach the Makalu base camp along the moraine of the Baruntse glacier. The glacier is far below, the Makalu with its 8,481 meters is omnipresent, it attracts all eyes. The moraine is quite bad, so you have to follow the cairns so as not to lose too much time. One last descent and everything becomes easier. A wide path allows us to reach the base camp guesthouses. After this last day, don't forget to make some offerings to the tutelary gods. A small altar for fumigations is also provided for this purpose.
6 hours trek
ALtitude different: + 250 m / - 850 m
Final Altitude: approximately 4,850 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in tent
This morning we gain height to head towards the eastern moraine which dominates the base camp. Halfway up you can see the Khumbu mountains and more particularly the Lhotse and Sagarmatha in “person”. The latter is hardly recognizable because it is its north face that is presented to us, the Tibetan side. From a small plateau, it is possible to measure yourself against a “small” stony summit of almost 5,800 meters which allows you to broaden the view of the satellite peaks and glaciers of Makalu, always as impressive it goes without saying… Return to the Camp from Makalu Base for a second night.
6 hours trek
Altitude different: + 1000 m / - 1000 m
Final altitude: approximately 4,850 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
Descent towards Langmale kharka via a route of grassy ridges allowing you to admire from above the frontal glacial lake of the West Barun glacier. Then, in the space of an hour, we are again on the grassy mountain pastures of Langmale. We go back down along the Barun khola to Yangri Kharka.
5 hours trek
Altitude different: + 100 m / - 1,400 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,530 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
We take the Shipton trail which owes its name to Eric Shipton (one of the pioneers of Himalayanism). This trail is also known for its difficult terrain and the characteristic of being affected by the first snowfall in the region. The Barun Khola valley remains dry while the only route available to quickly reach "civilization" is often stuffed with fresh snow... Departing from the kharka we take a path which crosses several rocky and sandy scree. We find a primary forest and, after passing a natural cave, here is the path which turns right to go up a thalweg in which "path" and torrent sometimes blend intimately... How high the steps are! We then climb into a forest of rhododendrons and reach the small clearing of Dobato from which we can try to look in the mountain range opposite for traces of the path on the side of which we followed between Kalo Pokhari and Korlangue kharka.
4 hours tent
Altitude different: + 630 m / - 300 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,860 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
We climb steadily into the rhododendron forest which fades as we progress in altitude. We arrive at Keke La (4,185 m), the first pass of the day, marked by a chorten and prayer flags. We descend along the Kalo Pokhari (black lake) where the surrounding peaks are reflected before continuing towards the Shipton La (4,216 m) and its endless staircase climb before descending to cross the Ghungru La (4,020 m), the last pass of the day. Then, we follow the edge of the ridge to reach the lodges of Khongma danda.
6 hours trek
Altitude different: + 630 m / - 950 m
Final altitude: approximately 3,580 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
A day of pure descent! We feel the difference both in terms of altitude and temperature. First part of the day on stairs in the forest before happily returning to the first places inhabited all year round and firstly the Tibetan village of Tashigaon. In the afternoon, a lightly marked up/down balcony path takes us through villages mainly of the Rai ethnic group until reaching the hamlet of Seduwa.
hours trek
Altitude different: + 150 m / - 2,060 m
Final altitude: approximately 1,670 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in a tent or lodge
One more last effort! We descend in wide bends on a rocky path to the metal footbridge which allows you to cross the Arun Khola then, once on the other side, in previous years the endless climb to the Num ridge began! Today, the track has (fortunately or unfortunately) been traced at the height of the Arun Khola valley and the ascent is lightened. The Jeeps wait for us at 1,060 meters and we arrive at Num for lunch. We have 3 hours of trail left before arriving in Khandbari. The shopping town is not very exciting and it is preferable to go down to Tumlingtar via the tarmac road to stay in one of the guesthouses facing the airport.
by private vehicle
4 hours drive
about 3 hours trek
Altitude Different: + 300 m / - 950 m
Final altitude: approximately 500 m
Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
Accommodation: night in guesthouse
No more than 200 meters of flat walking to reach the boarding hall with a late morning flight to Kathmandu for a splendid “mountain flight” which allows us to review our Himalayan geography… To enjoy to your heart's content!
by private vehicle and domestic flight
approximately 2 hours drive to airport
about 35 minutes flight
approximately 1,300 m
Meals: breakfast – free lunch (not included) – free dinner (not included)
Accommodation: night at the hotel
Free day in Kathmandu, safety day can be used during the trek...
approximately 1,300 m
Meals: breakfast – free lunch (not included) – free dinner (not included)
Accommodation: night at the hotel
free time depending on the departure time of your flight and our representative will drop you at the airport, ending your journey in Nepal. We hope to be of service to you again. Thank you and safe travels.
Trip Included
- ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: Airport - Hotel transfers – Airport (Pick Up and Drop), by private vehicle.
- HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu With breakfast plan.
- WELCOME DINNER: One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office Staff.
- CARGO CLEARANCE: Assistance for cargo clearance in Nepal’s Customs, clearance cost is subject to a charge.
- PERMITS: Expedition Royalty and permits fee, Sagarmatha National Park, and Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry permit and fee.
- GARBAGE MANAGEMENT: Stool Shipment Transfer & Garbage Deposit fees.
- INSURANCE: Medical & Emergency rescue Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
- MAP: Trekking and climbing map.
- DUFFLE BAG : One Alpinist club Duffle Bag.
- MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : (Domestic Flight) Fly from Kathmandu – to Lukla and while returning from Tumlintar - to Kathmandu, as per itinerary.
- EXPEDITION STUFFS TRANSPORTATION: All necessary expedition equipment transportation for all Members and Staff from Kathmandu to Lukla (by air cargo) and Base camp (by Porters / Yak) – While returning: Base camp to Lukla (by porters / Yak) and Lukla to Kathmandu (by air cargo).
- MEMBER LUGGAGE: Up to 25 Kg per member as personal baggage during the trek to be carried by porters.
- FOOD AND LODGING : 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge/Tent during the trek and at the Basecamp.
- PORTER: Porters per member up to the Base camp and from the Basecamp (both ways).
- HIGH ALTITUDE CLIMBING SHERPA: 1 government-licensed climbing Sherpa per member (1 Member: 1 Sherpa), during the entire climb from Basecamp to the summit and back.
- ASSISTANCE: Climbing Sherpa to assist in carrying your gear to the high camps.
- CLIMBING SHERPA SALARY & ALLOWANCE: Climbing Sherpa’s Salary, Equipment, Food, and Clothing.
- OXYGEN BOTTLE (O2): Oxygen bottles will be in stock at base camp in case of an emergency (with an appropriate charge).
- OXYGEN MASK & REGULATOR: 1 Set of Summit Oxygen masks will be in base camp in case of an emergency.
- HIGH CAMP SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOGISTICS) : High Altitude Tent, Lights, Necessary cooking EPI gas, cooking pot, High food for a member, Sherpa, and other crews. Group climbing gears, fixed and dynamic rope during the climbing period as required.
- HIGH ALTITUDE TENT: Members will share tents in high camps (2 members: 1 tent).
- WEATHER FORECAST: Weather forecast report during the entire expedition.
- GUIDE: Local government-licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.
- MEDICAL KIT: Comprehensive Medical kit for members and staff.
Trip Excluded
- AIRFARE: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
- NEPAL ENTRY VISA FEE: The Nepalese Visa fee is USD 50 for 30 Days.
- LUNCH & DINNER: Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary).
- EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU: Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking / Expedition, or domestic flight cancellation (due to any other reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- INSURANCE POLICY: Insurance covering both medical and high-altitude evacuation costs (for the trip cancellation, interruption, high altitude rescue & air evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.) *Mandatory
- PERSONAL EXPENSES: Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages (during the trek and in Kathmandu but we will have soft drinks for members at base camp).
- PERSONAL CLIMBING EQUIPMENT: Clothing, Packing Items, Bags, Personal Medical Kit, and all kinds of Personal Trekking / Climbing Gear.
- 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 and the expedition.
- SUMMIT BONUS: Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa - Minimum 300 USD.
- TIPS : Calculate some tips for the high camp and other staff– Minimum 100 USD.
- EXTRA: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Notes: Costs may be subject to change in itinerary. So costs will be recalculated if the trekking/tour days get modified.
Note: For unforeseeable reasons at this stage of climatic hazards, form or deformity of the participants or others (state of the roads, traffic, case of unforeseeable, your guide or guide may have to adapt the program, if necessary for the smooth running of your trip. He remains the sole judge and guarantor of your safety. Walking times are given as an indication and may vary from one participant to another.
