Lobuche East peak climbing combines the classic Everest Base Camp trek with the ascent of Lobuche East (6,119 m), a trekking peak with one of the best summit views in the Khumbu. After acclimatising in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche and visiting Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m), you climb from Lobuche High Camp up a snow ridge to a summit with views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and Pumori.
The 18-day Lobuche climbing package is ideal as a first 6,000 m peak or as preparation for bigger expeditions. It is graded strenuous, with fixed ropes on the upper ridge, and is best in April–May and October–November. We provide an experienced climbing Sherpa, the NMA peak permit, climbing training, high-camp tents, group climbing gear, Lukla flights and all meals.
Quick answer: Lobuche East is a 6,119 m trekking peak near Everest Base Camp. Climbing it with the EBC trek takes about 18 days, costs from US$2,490 per person with a climbing guide, and needs good fitness plus basic crampon, ice axe and fixed-rope skills, which we teach before the climb. The best seasons are April–May and October–November.
Lobuche East rises directly above the Khumbu Glacier, between Lobuche village and Dzongla. Although classed as a trekking peak by the Nepal Mountaineering Association, it is more technical than Island Peak: the route crosses rock slabs to high camp, then follows a steep snow and ice slope and an exposed ridge to the summit. Many climbers stop at the false summit, which still offers one of the best Everest views anywhere.
| Trip fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 18 days from Kathmandu |
| Summit | Lobuche East, 6,119 m / 20,075 ft |
| Also includes | Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar (5,545 m) |
| Grade | Strenuous, alpine grade PD+ |
| Technical sections | Snow slopes up to 45–50°, fixed ropes, exposed ridge |
| Permits | NMA peak permit, Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu local fee |
| Summit day | 9–12 hours from high camp |
| Best time | April–May and October–November |
| Cost | From US$2,490 per person |
Lobuche East is harder than Island Peak and Mera Peak. You need to be very fit and comfortable walking in crampons, using an ice axe, clipping into fixed lines and descending by abseil or arm-wrap. Previous climbing experience is helpful but not essential: our guides run a training session at base camp. The altitude and a long summit day are the main challenges.
| Cost item | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Full climbing package (this trip) | From US$2,490 per person |
| NMA peak permit | Varies by season, highest in spring (included) |
| Climbing Sherpa and equipment | Included |
| Personal climbing gear rental | About US$80–120 in Kathmandu |
| Summit bonus for climbing Sherpa | Customary, about US$100–150 |
Island Peak (6,189 m) is slightly higher but less technical, with a glacier crossing and a ladder or two. Lobuche East is steeper and more exposed and has better views of Everest. Choose Island Peak for a first climb, Lobuche East if you want more challenge.
You need excellent fitness for a 10–12 hour summit day at over 6,000 m. Train for three to four months with long hill walks carrying a pack, stair climbing and cardio. Some experience with crampons and ice axe is useful; we teach fixed-rope techniques at base camp.
This trek reaches 6,119 m on the summit, after acclimatising at Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Symptoms of acute mountain sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite and poor sleep. Walk slowly, drink 3–4 litres of water a day, avoid alcohol and tell your guide about any symptoms. If symptoms get worse, descending is the most effective treatment. Talk to your doctor before the trip about whether altitude medication is right for you.
Summit days start well below freezing (−15°C to −25°C with wind chill). Spring has longer, warmer days; autumn brings clearer skies and colder nights.
The Lukla flight has a baggage limit of about 15 kg including hand luggage; climbing gear is carried by porters. Keep a spare day at the end of your trip for weather delays.
The NMA peak permit, Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu local fee are included.
Take out cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before you set off: there are very few ATMs on the trail, and the ones that exist often don't work. Lodges charge a little for hot showers, charging and Wi-Fi, so a power bank saves money.
Bring a refillable bottle and either purification tablets or a filter. Lodges also sell boiled water, which is cheaper and better for the trail than bottled water.
Travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover trekking to 6,200 m, including climbing and helicopter rescue, medical treatment and emergency helicopter evacuation. Please send us your policy details before departure.
Most visitors get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport, or apply online before they fly. Your passport needs six months' validity, and bring a few passport photos for trekking permits.
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More trip options, quoted on request:
Lobuche East is 6,119 m (20,075 ft). Many parties stop at the false summit, slightly lower, depending on conditions.
It is strenuous and moderately technical (alpine PD+), with steep snow slopes, fixed ropes and an exposed ridge. It is harder than Island Peak.
Fit beginners with good trekking experience can climb it with our training and a climbing Sherpa, but Island Peak or Mera Peak is a gentler first climb.
Our Lobuche East with Everest Base Camp package costs from US$2,490 per person, including the peak permit, climbing Sherpa, flights and all meals on the trek.
The full trip takes 18 days including EBC. Summit day is 10–12 hours from high camp.
An NMA peak permit, plus the Sagarmatha National Park permit and Khumbu local fee. All are included.
April–May and October–November, when the weather is most stable.
Island Peak is higher and easier; Lobuche East is more technical with better views of Everest.
Mountaineering boots, crampons, harness, helmet, ice axe, ascender and descender, plus warm expedition clothing. Most can be rented in Kathmandu.
Success depends on weather, conditions and fitness; with good acclimatisation via EBC, most fit climbers reach the summit or false summit.
Yes. Visiting EBC and Kala Patthar first gives excellent acclimatisation before the climb.
No. Lobuche West (6,145 m) is a more technical expedition peak; Lobuche East is the popular trekking peak.
One climbing Sherpa for every two climbers on summit day, plus a trekking guide.
Yes, from reliable shops in Thamel; we help you choose it on day two.
