• Duration

      63 days

    • Group

      16 Pax

    • Difficulty

      Moderate To Strenous

    • Accommodation

      Hotel / Lodge

    • Max.Altitude

      8848m

    • Season

      All Season

Everest climb via North (Tibetan) side is the least expensive way to climb it. The trip begins in the ancient and colorful city of Kathmandu. On the Friendship Bridge, border Crossing between Nepal and Tibet. Upon entering Tibet, the clocks immediately go forward by 2 hours. Our secondary government liaison officer will meet us in Zhangmu. After clearing Tibetan customs and immigration, a Chinese bus takes us up the windy road through the rolling hills to Nyalam town at 3,750 meters, and a basic "hotel". The smaller towns in Tibet are generally simple and rustic places, and this one is no exception. The topography here is quite interesting in that we are perched in the transitional zone where the Tibetan plateau rams into the Himalaya, then drops into the forested valleys and jungles of Nepal, and finally out into the Gangetic plain of the Terai and India. We stay over one extra night in Nyalam, to help adjust to the altitude, and during our "rest-day" in Nyalam, we take advantage of the interesting surroundings to walk to the top of local hills and savor the first glimpses of the Himalayan Giants.

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)

    Upon arriving at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by our airport representatives who will warmly greet you and transfer to the hotel on a private tourist vehicle. We provide 3-star accommodation in the city and we arrange for a trip briefing with dinner in the evening.

  • Day 2
    Visit old town of Kathmandu

    A professional guide and vehicle are provided for a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu city. We visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city along with other interesting cultural monuments that dot the valley. These include Boudhanath Stupa (the largest Buddhist shrines in the world), Pashupatinath (the holiest Hindu temple in the world), Durbar Squares (Palaces and fortresses of medieval Kings), along with other popular cultural attractions. We get to observe the lifestyle of Nepalese people, holy sadhus and monks, fascinating history as well as awe-inspiring architecture.

  • Day 3
    Official formalities in Kathmandu

    Formal briefing at the Ministry of Tourism. The expedition leader will check that everyone’s equipment is in working order.

  • Day 4
    Final preparation day in Kathmandu

    Final opportunity for last-minute purchases.

  • Day 5
    Fly to Lhasa

    Early morning transfer to the Kathmandu International Airport for the hour-long flight to Lhasa. This stunning flight takes us directly across the main Himalayan range, providing magnificent mountain views. After landing at Gonggar Airport and meeting our Tibetan guide, Lhasa is a further two hour drive. The remainder of the day will be left unscheduled for participants to rest and adjust to Lhasa's higher altitude. Overnight at Lhasa hotel.

  • Day 6
    Sightseeing in Lhasa

    We spend today visiting several of Lhasa's many monasteries in the company of a guide and interpreter. One of these is the Sera Monastery, one of the best-preserved monasteries in Tibet. Several hundred monks live and study within its whitewashed walls and golden roofs. After lunch we'll visit the Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, as well as the Jokhang Temple. This temple is possibly the most sacred shrine in Tibet and there is always a procession of devout Tibetans making their way through the complex. Surrounding the Jokhang is the Barkor, a maze of narrow cobbled streets that is the central market of Lhasa. Overnight at Lhasa hotel.

  • Day 7
    Second day of sightseeing in Lhasa

    In the morning, we visit spectacular Potala Palace, which dominates the city of Lhasa. The building served as the seat of the Dalai Lama from the 17th century until 1959, and contains numerous grand state rooms and many important chapels. After lunch we visit the Drepung Monastery, founded in the 14th century and once the largest in the world, with a population of around 10,000 monks. These days that figure is down to several hundred, but there is still much at the monastery of interest, especially because it was left relatively unscathed during the Cultural Revolution. Overnight at Lhasa hotel.

  • Day 8
    Drive to Gyantse

    We begin the day’s 261 km journey heading towards Rongbuk Valley. Following the Friendship Highway, we cross the Khamba La at an elevation of 4794m, from where there are stunning views across the waters of Yamdrok-Tso Lake to the snowy summit of Nazin Kang Sa (7252m). As continue our journey west over another high pass, the Karo La (5045m), we can view the spectacular sight of a huge glacier tumbling down to within a few hundred meters of the road. After few hours we arrive in Gyantse (3950m), passing through beautiful valleys and colorful Tibetan villages. Overnight at Gyantse hotel.

  • Day 9
    Drive to Shigatse

    This morning we visit the GyantseDzong, a fort dating back to the fourteenth century that offers amazing views of Gyantse and the surrounding valleys. Before leaving we also visit the famed GyantseKumbum. This magnificent tiered structure is the largest stupa in all of Tibet. In addition to its exquisite golden dome, the stupa is filled with Tibetan sculptures and paintings.

    We continue the 90 km trip to Shigatse (3900m), the second largest city in Tibet. Shigatse is a laid back city that provides excellent opportunities for relaxation and exploration. After exploring the local market we will visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, one of the largest functioning monasteries in Tibet. Overnight at Shigatse hotel.

  • Day 10
    Drive to Xegar (New Tingri)

    The views offered by this desert plateau provide wonderful entertainment as we travel 244km along the Friendship Highway on our way to Xegar (4050). This stretch runs through Tibet’s most spectacular landscape. After passing through the small town of Lhatse we will cross Gyatmso La – with an elevation of 5220m, it is the highest pass on our journey. The land quickly descends to plains after Gyatmso La. While travelling through the plains we will see nomadic herders, quiet countryside, and secluded monasteries. Overnight at Xegar hotel.

  • Day 11
    Drive to Ronguk and hike to Everest Base Camp

    Today we leave the main Lhasa-to-Kathmandu highway and head due south toward Mt. Everest. We drive over the Pang La, which should provide our first good view of Everest, some 40 miles away. Then we descend to a village on the valley floor, continuing up the valley to the base camp (5150m). The road becomes increasingly rough, but the scenery grows all the more stunning as we round each corner. Finally we come to the awesome north face of Everest at the head of the valley before us. From the base camp it certainly seems very close, but it is still another twelve miles away. Overnight at tented camp.

  • Day 12-16
    Acclimatization and local exploration

    Four days will be spent at the base camp while our bodies adapt to the high altitude, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the views and photograph Everest. For those feeling up to it, there are plenty of hillsides to scramble up, and Rongbuk Monastery lays an eight kilometer (five mile) walk down the valley. Another sight not to miss is Tillman's Camp, an idyllic spot beside the majestic Central Rongbuk Glacier, which offers staggering views of the north side of Everest. While there’s plenty to see in the valley, it’s important not to overdo it during this period - there will be plenty of opportunity for exertion later. At this phase of the expedition, climbers should be adapting to the altitude, drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and enjoying the cuisine of the Sherpa cooking staff. Overnight at tented camp.

  • Day 17
    Trek to first interim camp

    The trek starts easily enough, crossing the pebble floodplain of the Rongbuk River, then weaving along a path between the glacier and the valley side. After about 2 hours we reach a good viewpoint and turn steeply up to the left, leaving the main central Rongbuk valley. This takes us up into what seems to be a fairly small subsidiary valley, but it soon opens up to reveal the amazing pinnacles of the East Rongbuk Glacier. It was the discovery of this path in 1922 that provided the key to climbing the north side of Everest. After no more than two hours since leaving the Rongbuk Valley, we make camp in a pleasant spot with plenty of space (5680m). The camp is located on the right bank, overlooking the river below, and is just short of the moraines and the toe of the glacier that lay ahead. Overnight at tented camp.

  • Day 18
    Trek to second interim camp

    Crossing small streams and moraines, we gain the opposite side of the valley and contour along it until the valley makes a definite swing north.

    This will be the site of our interim camp for future journeys between base and advance base, but for now it marks the climb onto the glacier proper and the start of the Magic Highway. On subsequent journeys up the East Rongbuk Glacier, we will be fitter and better acclimatized, enabling us to complete the trek easily in two days.

    The Magic Highway is a unique tongue of moraine that passes down the middle of the treacherous ice pinnacles of the East Rongbuk Glacier. The route is surprisingly level, with little height gain; most of the effort goes into adapting to the altitude change.

    Once on the Magic Highway, the conditions become more difficult than during the previous day's walk, with ice and moraine constant companions from here onward. At the start of the season, the streams on the glacier will be slight, carrying little water. However, as the season progresses through spring, and toward summer, some of these streams will become torrents, requiring frequent route changes to cross them safely.

    The highway eventually drifts in toward the east ridge of Changtse, where a lake often forms. The interim camp, reached after five hours of slow walking, is nestled close to the entrance of the cwm to the north of Changtse, close to this moraine lake. Overnight at tented camp.

  • Day 19
    Trek to advance base camp

    The reappearance of Everest is a pleasant distraction during the final climb, and as you round the corner toward the advance base camp (6440m) the whole northeast ridge can be seen, from the Raphu La to the summit. The shimmering triangle of snow highlighting the summit four kilometers away and two up will issues its siren’s call until your footsteps cross it! Overnight at tented camp.

  • Day 20-58
    Climbing Mt. Everest from north ridge

    From this point on, it’s not really possible to detail a climbing plan, because the pace will depend upon the leader and the particular team. For those who have experienced extreme altitude before, we aim to be as flexible as possible to allow for each climber’s preferred acclimatization routine. For some, this may mean climbing as high as Camp 3 on the north ridge as quickly as possible, before diving back to the base camp for a long rest. Others might want to remain at a lower altitude longer, taking several trips to the North Col and sleeping there overnight but not going any higher at the start.

    Whatever routine is adopted for acclimatization, once everyone is happy that they have achieved an optimum state of readiness, the team will return to the base camp for a long period of rest and refreshment.

    After many days of resting and preparing, we return once more to ABC, using the single interim camp at the start of the Magic Highway. Again, we pause in ABC, to refresh and check equipment. When the weather is as fair as possible we head up. The route to the North Col is by now a well-known path, since we have ascended and descended its slopes a few times as part of our acclimatization process. We’ll also find the meters slipping by more easily, with our sights now set on the mountain’s pinnacle.

    From Camp 1 on the North Col, the route turns to follow a long snow ramp, the north ridge proper, which rests like a gigantic flying buttress supporting the upper reaches of the mountain. Although this stretch never grows steep, it is prone to wind sweeping icily across the mountain. After a full day we reach Camp 2, located at the head of the ramp.

    From here the route moves on to broken rocky ground of shattered shale, as the north ridge casts off its layers of snow. The route remains relatively easily-angled, although the gradient increases gently until the next camp is reached. This camp is located where the mass of the north ridge rams home hard against the bulk of the mountain, on rocky shelves. The day’s trek is rewarded with stunning views over the glaciers below. What we viewed as large mountains towering above on the Magic Highway are now below, blending into the backdrop of the Tibetan Plateau and the flatlands beyond.

    The top camp will give you an even greater sense of the world below your feet. The ascent continues on broken ledges, but these are easy to navigate, interlaced with shale and scree until snow runnels give out onto the north face proper. Once clear of the rocks and on more open slopes, you turn directly upwards, to arrive at the final camp at about 8,400 metres.

    Summit day

    Summit day begins before midnight! Leaving the tents in the still of the night, you clamber up a faint gully that leads to the ridge above. This line through the rocks is steeper than those traversed the day before, but the fixed ropes help lift you toward the skyline. Some scrambling will land you on the ridge at over 8,500 meters. The only thing now between you and the top is roughly 400 meters of ascent, three rock steps, and over a kilometer of ridge - the ultimate tightrope! As dawn breaks, you will see the awesome Kangshung Face falling off to your left - a mind-boggling drop into Tibet. For the main section, you remain on the right flank and traverse easily in places, but the route is punctuated by the first, second and third steps. The hardest of these is the second, which has a ladder and fixed rope to allow an ascent, which would be virtually impossible otherwise. Additionally, you can expect an airy traverse en route to gaining the top. Finally, you step onto the mountain yields and final summit snowfield previously witnessed from miles below, heralding your arrival to the Top of the World.

  • Day 59
    Packing personal equipment at base camp

    Overnight at tented camp

  • Day 60
    Depart from base camp and drive to Zangmu

    We return by the same remarkable road journey across the Tibetan plateau, staying the in Zangmu and preparing to cross back into Nepal at first light. Overnight at hotel.

  • Day 61
    Drive to Kathmandu

    Once back in Kathmandu, we will toast a drink or two to celebrate the expedition, say farewell, and thank the Sherpas and team members for their support and friendship throughout the trip. Overnight at Kathmandu hotel.

  • Day 62
    Leisure day in Kathmandu

    Leisure day in Kathmandu.Overnight at Kathmandu hotel.

  • Day 63
    Transfer to airport for flight departure

    Our staff will escort you to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal.

Map

What's included

Price Details

Please enquire with us for prices

Price Includes

  • - All ground transportation by private vehicle for airport and hotel pick up/drop off, sightseeing and transfers
  • - All domestic flights (if any)
  • - Accommodation in teahouses and hotels
  • - All meals during trek
  • - Entry permit to parks, monuments and cultural landmarks
  • - Trekking guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s) their daily wages, food, accommodation and other expenses
  • - Comprehensive medical kit
  • - In case of emergency, we can send helicopters for evacuation, manage all paperwork, and deal with related insurance companies (provided the client has valid insurance)
Not included

Price Excludes

  • - International airfare and airport departure tax
  • - Travel insurance covering medical treatment and evacuation by ground and air
  • - Nepal entry visa, obtained upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu
  • - Rescue and evacuation
  • - Extra road transport/flight cost in case member returns earlier
  • - Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and if applicable, in Pokhara
  • - Items of personal nature like laundry, communication and bar bill
  • - Tips for trip staff and driver. (Tipping is appreciated)
  • - Other expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section

Life on Trek

Trekking staff

Whilst on the trek, the Nepali guides and porters will ensure that you are well looked after. Every trek has an English speaking guide, known as the Sirdar, who is in overall charge. It is his responsibility to organize the trek en route and manage the guides and porters and deal with the local peoples and they are experts in trek organization, as well as being able to discuss the local culture, religion, and landscape. In addition there will be other guides, sometimes referred to by the generic term Sherpa, who will be your walking companions on the trek and will assist the Sirdar in organizing the logistic of the trek. On camping treks there will be full kitchen crew who are responsible for all aspects of catering. And finally there will be porters who are the transportation system of the Nepali mountains. They will carry the duffle bags and other equipment as necessary.

Accommodation

  • Fully equipped Camping treks - accommodation is provided in spacious 2 person tents. We use this method for our climbing trips and some treks where lodges are less frequent.
  • Lodge trek - accommodation is provided in the local Nepali lodges, some times known as tea- houses. It is usually necessary to share a double room. We use this method for our treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions.

Food

On camping treks, all food is prepared by the trek cook - an expert in preparing delicious camp food. And most importantly, special care is taken to provide well - boiled, purified drinking water. On lodge treks, food is provided in the lodge and this ranges from delicious local specialties to common western dishes. If necessary, bottled water can be purchased from the lodges for a small fee, although many trekkers prefer to use fresh water with the added precaution of a purifying agent. You could bring some Chocolate or special energy drinks for yourself as these are hard to get in the Himalayas.

A typical trekking day

A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset. The day starts with an early wake up call. You then pack up your gear and enjoy a rousing breakfast before starting your morning's walk. The Sirdar will already be organized loads to porters and or animals, and your group will then set off on the trail at a leisurely pace, enjoying the view and stopping to take photographs. After 2-3 hours walk you stop for lunch. This lasts for about 90 minutes which gives you time to relax, or explore the local village. The afternoon's walk is usually shorter and we arrive at the campsite or tea-house in plenty of time to relax and savour the surroundings. Later in the evening dinner is served, giving you an opportunity to sample the delicious food, talk over the day's events, and look forward to another special day on the trails of Nepal.

Health and safety on the trek General

  • A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on the trek. However we advise that you also carry your personal first aid kit which includes specific items of preference.
  • We will, in an emergency, arrange for helicopter evacuation. (Note that you are required to hold insurance for this unlikely eventuality).
  • All meals on our camping trips are prepared to strict hygiene standards specifically for our groups, under the supervision of the trekking staff.
  • We use tea-houses that we now have strict hygiene standards and provide a broad menu.

High Altitude

Anyone can be affected by Altitude Sickness. However, our itineraries are specifically designed to minimize the risks associated with trekking to high altitudes by building in acclimatization and rest days. In the event of any symptoms we will ensure that the individual descends to a lower altitude to gain a quick recovery.

And finally……….. It must be stressed that whilst trekking in the Nepal Himalaya is challenging and rewarding, you must be prepared for he occasional inconvenience or discomfort. The correct mental attitude to trekking is as important as being physically prepared.

Equipments

All equipment and food, and your own personal backpacks are carried by the porters or pack animals. It is only necessary to carry a camera or small daypack ! On camping treks all necessary camp equipment is provided - this includes dining tent, dining table and chairs, toilet tent, foam mattresses, and all cooking equipment. The only kit that you will need to bring is your own personal equipment and clothing.

Recommended Trekking Kit

The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend that you take with you. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.

Footwear

  • Walking boots with suitable ankle support that have been worn - in prior to the trek, and which are waterproof.
  • Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking andor for traveling
  • Warm socks for colder areas.
  • Gaiters ,,in case of rain or snow.

Leg wear

  • Loose, casual trousers for trekking.
  • Thermal leggings for colder areas.
  • Long skirt for women as an alternative to trousers
  • Waterproof trousers

Body

  • Selection of T-shirts, and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton.
  • Thermal shirt for colder areas.
  • Warm shirt, possibly fleece, for colder areas.
  • Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
  • Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment for higher altitudes.
  • Down jacket (optional for cold nights & mornings: can be hired in Kathmandu cheaply)

Head Hands

  • Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava.
  • Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking.
  • Sunglasses or goggles.
  • Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
  • Warm gloves.

Other Items

  • Strong rucksack, or large holdall to be carried by porters
  • Day sack to be carried personally.
  • Plastic bags or stuff sacks to storeseparate trekking gear inside your main bag.
  • One liter water bottle.
  • Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
  • Sleeping bag 4 season.
  • Torch, ideally head torch.
  • Camera and film! - for those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalaya.
  • Toilet items and towel.
  • Large handkerchief bandana for neck.

Recommended Mountaineering Kit

In additional to the items mentioned above for trekking the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.

  • Plastic or Leather mountaineering boots, with gaitors & crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
  • Fleece trousers or salopettes.
  • Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing.
  • Ice ace, and ski poles (Note: ice axe can hired in Kathmandu)
  • Climbing harness
  • 2 X tape slings
  • 2 X screw gate karabiners.
  • Descended abseil device Ascender