Lhotse expedition

50 Days Himalayan Expedition

50 days

8516m

4 - 8

Hard

Spring and Autumn

Starts in: Kathmandu

Ends in: Kathmandu

Accommodation: Hotel, Tea Houses and Expedition Tents

Lhotse (8,516 m), the fourth highest mountain in the world, rises immediately beside Mount Everest in the heart of Nepal’s Khumbu region.

Although often overshadowed by Everest, Lhotse is considered one of the most elegant and rewarding 8,000-meter climbs in the Himalayas.

The expedition follows the classic route through Everest Base Camp, crossing the famous Khumbu Icefall, continuing across the vast Western Cwm, and climbing the steep Lhotse Face before reaching the high camp at the South Col.

From there climbers begin their final ascent toward the summit through the narrow Lhotse Couloir.

With its combination of extreme altitude, technical terrain, and the support of experienced Sherpa climbers, the Lhotse Expedition offers a true Himalayan mountaineering challenge for climbers seeking to reach one of the world’s great peaks.

Highlights

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Stand on the summit of Lhotse (8,516 m), the fourth highest mountain on Earth.
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Climb through the legendary Everest region in the heart of the Himalayas.
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Cross the famous Khumbu Icefall and ascend the dramatic Lhotse Face.
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Experience a true 8,000-meter Himalayan expedition.
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Summit push from the South Col using supplemental oxygen.
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Supported by an experienced high-altitude Sherpa climbing team.

Itinerary

1
Arrival in Kathmandu

Airport transfer and hotel check-in.

1400 m
2
Expedition preparation in Kathmandu

Equipment check, permits and welcome dinner with expedition team.

3
Final expedition briefing

Preparation before departure to the Khumbu region.

4
Flight to Lukla (2,860 m) – Trek to Phakding (2,610 m).
5
Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
6
Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
7
Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m)
8
Trek to Pheriche (4,240 m)
9
Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m)
10
Trek to Gorakshep (5,170 m)
11
Trek to Everest / Lhotse Base Camp (~5,364 m)
12
12–14 – Base Camp setup and climbing preparation
15
15–42 – Acclimatization rotations and summit attempt
43
Return to Base Camp
44
Trek to Lobuche
45
Trek to Tengboche
46
Trek to Namche Bazaar
47
Trek to Lukla
48
Flight to Kathmandu
49
Extra day in Kathmandu (weather contingency)
50
Final departure
Climbing Route Overview

Camp I – Khumbu Icefall (~6,100 m)
Camp II – Western Cwm (~6,400 m)
Camp III – Lhotse Face (~7,200 m)
Camp IV – South Col (~7,900 m)
Summit – Lhotse (8,516 m) using supplemental oxygen

Included / Not Included

Not Included

✈️ International flights to and from Nepal

🛂 Nepal visa fees

🎒 Personal climbing equipment

🛡 Personal travel and rescue insurance

🍽 Lunch and dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu

🥤 Personal expenses (internet, drinks, laundry, etc.)

💰 Summit bonus and tips for Sherpa team

🫁 Extra oxygen bottles beyond the standard allocation

🧗 Personal climbing guide (available upon request)

🚁 Emergency rescue costs not covered by insurance

Included

🚐 Transportation

Airport transfers and domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla.

🏨 Accommodation

• 4 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (BB basis)
• Lodges during the trekking approach
• Fully equipped expedition Base Camp

🏕 Base Camp services

• Individual Base Camp tent with mattress
• Dining, kitchen, and communication tents

🍽 Meals

Meals provided at Base Camp (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

🧭 Professional expedition team

• Experienced high-altitude Sherpa climbing team
• Expedition staff and Base Camp support

🧗 Climbing logistics

• High camp logistics and equipment (Camp I–IV)
• Fixed ropes and route safety management

🫁 Oxygen support

• Oxygen supply for summit push (4 bottles per climber)
• Oxygen mask and regulator set

📡 Communication & safety

• Satellite communication
• Weather forecast service
• Expedition medical kit
• Helicopter evacuation coordination

🎟 Permits

• Lhotse expedition permit
• Sagarmatha National Park permit

✔ Government taxes and official Lhotse summit certificate

Trek details & Safety

Essentials

Difficulty level

The Lhotse Expedition (8,516 m) is a highly demanding Himalayan ascent intended for experienced high-altitude mountaineers.

The route follows the classic approach to Everest Base Camp and shares the ascent route with Everest up to Camp IV (South Col), crossing the Khumbu Icefall, Western Cwm, and the Lhotse Face. Climbers progress using crampons, ice axe, harness, and fixed ropes on steep ice and glacial terrain.

The summit push is carried out from Camp IV using supplemental oxygen to support safer performance in extreme altitude conditions.

This expedition requires excellent physical condition, strong endurance, and prior experience on 7,000 m peaks or similar high-altitude expeditions.

Altitude Awareness

This expedition reaches extreme altitude up to 8,516 m, where oxygen availability is significantly reduced.

The program follows progressive acclimatization rotations between high camps in accordance with Himalayan expedition protocols.

At these elevations climbers may experience symptoms such as headache, fatigue, reduced appetite, shortness of breath, and increased sensitivity to cold in the hands and feet due to low temperatures and reduced oxygen levels.

Our high-altitude Sherpa team and mountain guides continuously monitor climbers’ condition throughout the expedition to ensure safe acclimatization management.

Guide & Sherpa support

All treks are led by certified local guides and experienced Sherpa teams who manage the route, daily logistics, and safety throughout the journey. Their deep knowledge of the terrain, weather patterns, and mountain conditions ensures a safe and authentic Himalayan trekking experience.

Safety Measures

Your safety is our top priority throughout the trek. Our itineraries are designed to allow proper acclimatization, and our certified guides monitor participants daily for altitude-related symptoms.

Oximetry monitoring

First aid kit

Emergency oxigen

Travel insurance requiered

Important travel information

Important travel information

Himalayan travel takes place in a dynamic mountain environment where weather and trail conditions may vary. For safety reasons, minor itinerary adjustments may occasionally be necessary. Crest Summit Treks always prioritizes safety, comfort, and the best possible mountain experience.

More information

Most travelers need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Nepal. This visa can be easily obtained upon arrival in the country.

The tourist visa can be arranged:

  • On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
  • At major land border crossings into Nepal
  • In advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your country

Travelers may also complete the visa application form online before arrival, which can help speed up the process at the airport.

To obtain a visa on arrival, travelers must complete the immigration form, present a valid passport, and pay the visa fee.

It is recommended to bring US dollars in cash to pay the visa fee.

In some cases, a passport-sized photo may be required, so it is advisable to bring one with you.

Tourist Visa Fees

  • 15 days: $30 USD
  • 30 days: $50 USD
  • 90 days: $125 USD

Tourist visas are generally issued as multiple-entry visas, allowing travelers to leave and re-enter Nepal during the validity period of the visa.

Indian Citizens

Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. However, they must carry a valid passport or an approved identification document when crossing the border.

Adequate travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining our treks and expeditions.

Travel insurance is not included in the trip price, and each participant is responsible for arranging their own policy before traveling to Nepal.

We strongly recommend that your insurance policy covers:

  • Medical expenses abroad
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation
  • Mountain accidents
  • Trip cancellation or interruption
  • Loss or delay of luggage

Helicopter evacuations in the Himalayas can be very expensive, especially in remote areas where road access is limited. For this reason, having proper insurance coverage is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

Altitude Coverage

For most treks in Nepal, we recommend insurance coverage for trekking activities up to at least 4,000–6,000 meters, including emergency helicopter evacuation.

For mountaineering expeditions or peak climbs above 6,000 meters, it is mandatory to have insurance that covers high-altitude mountaineering and rescue operations.

Participants must carefully check that their insurance policy covers the maximum altitude of their chosen trip.

Important Information

Participants should carry a copy of their insurance policy and emergency contact numbers during the trek or expedition.

Having appropriate insurance provides safety and peace of mind for both participants and the mountain team supporting the expedition.

Tipping is not mandatory but is a common practice in Nepal and a way to show appreciation for the local team supporting your trek or expedition.

Guides, Sherpas and porters work hard to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey in the mountains, assisting with logistics, equipment and support throughout the route.

As a general guideline, many trekkers choose to tip approximately:

  • Porters: around $8–10 USD per day
  • Guides / Sherpa Guides: around $10–15 USD per day

Tips are usually given at the end of the trek as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided.

The final amount is always at the discretion of each participant and may vary depending on group size and personal satisfaction with the service.

Each participant should carry a small personal first aid kit with basic medications that may be needed during the trek or expedition.

It is important to bring any personal medication prescribed by your doctor, as well as any specific treatments you normally use.

A personal first aid kit may include, for example:

  • Personal medication
  • Basic pain relief medication
  • Medication for digestive problems
  • Bandages or basic supplies for minor wounds
  • Sunscreen and lip protection

We recommend consulting your doctor before the trip if you require specific medication for high-altitude activities.

Our mountain team carries a group first aid kit and essential safety equipment, but each participant is responsible for their own personal medication.

Ready to experience the Himalayas?

Join a carefully crafted trek designed for those seeking silence, vast landscapes, and a deep connection with the mountains.

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What Our Adventurers Say

Real stories from the peaks of Nepal

Our past travelers share the highs, challenges, and unforgettable moments that made their Himalayan journey truly extraordinary.

Wayne Storey

Island Peak Climbling

Had a great experience with Pasang on our Everest base camp and Island Peak trek. Very knowledgeable and friendly and great communication skills.

Otávio Marcacini

Everest Base Camp Trekking

Great guide, I strongly recommend! He knows a lot about the culture and knows many people. Also, I had the opportunity to have lunch at the EBC with others sherpas, nice experience… Thanks Pasang for guiding me during the EBC trekking!

Martin legault

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp

Professionnal guide
Big experience
Have a respect every place during the treck
Everything is on control with Pasang.
I recommended a 150%

Stephen Tindall

Gokyo Chola Pass Everest Base Camp

I can honestly say I cannot recommend Pasang enough, I had the best time ever. Pasang is very knowledgeable and has so much passion about what he does. Throughout my trek I felt safe, and very welcomed. Pasang has become a life long friend, what ever trip you plan with him you will not be disappointed.

Jesen Lodge

Island Peak Climbling

Myself and a pal from Mountain Rescue England and Wales decided to go to Nepal and see the spectacular Himalayan Peaks. They didn’t disappoint. I have done a lot of mountaineering in Europe, Mont Blan, Gran Paradiso Etc. but these are next level…literally. Pasang Tendi was our guy. One of the nicest and hard working blokes you’ll ever meet. Awesome guide! Porters aside!