Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing – Complete Guide with Itinerary

Introduction to Lobuche Peak Climb and Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing is a unique blend of classic trekking and Himalayan mountaineering in Nepal. Located in Nepal’s Everest region, Lobuche East Peak (6,119 m) is one of the popular trekking peaks in Nepal, known for being challenging yet accessible to adventurous trekkers. It is often combined with the popular Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, allowing you to experience the Everest Base Camp Hike and summit the 6,000-meter peak. This 18-day journey kicks off through the classic Everest Base Camp Trek Route – passing through Sherpa villages, high suspension bridges, and monasteries – and culminates in a non-technical climb to the summit of Lobuche East for jaw-dropping alpine views.

Though Lobuche Peak Climb is known for “Non-technical” Peak climbing in Nepal, it should not be underestimated, especially by beginners. Trekkers will face steep trails, high altitude, and alpine terrain that demand good fitness and determination. The reward, however, is surreal: from the summit you’ll enjoy 360° panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and the stunning Khumbu Glacier. Additionally, you’ll also immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture, visiting the famous Tengboche Monastery, exploring Namche Bazaar, and staying in teahouses run by local families.

In short, Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing is an 18-day adventure of a lifetime. It’s ideal for trekkers who want to push their limits beyond the Everest Base Camp Trek. With proper preparation and the support of experienced guides, even novice climbers can stand atop Lobuche East and taste the thrill of Himalayan mountaineering. Let’s dive into the detailed itinerary and route of this epic journey.

18-day Everest Base Camp Lobuche Peak Itinerary Route Map

Below is the Lobuche Peak climbing route map and itinerary for the full 18-day Everest Base Camp + Lobuche East expedition. Overland Trek Nepal has carefully designed this Lobuche Peak Climbing Itinerary for acclimatization and success. The itinerary follows the standard approach to make a successful climb without any obstacles. The journey begins in Kathmandu, winds through the Khumbu Valley to Everest Base Camp, and then deviates off to Lobuche East Base Camp for the summit ascent:

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m) – Land in Nepal’s capital. Overland Trek Nepal’s staff will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax or explore the city’s cultural sites. In the evening, meet your guide for a briefing and gear check.
• Day 2: Kathmandu – Trek Preparation & Rest – A free day in Kathmandu to recover from travel and make final preparations. You can tour UNESCO World Heritage sites or shop for any last-minute gear in Thamel. Your guide will secure all required permits (Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS, etc.) and ensure everyone is ready for the trek.
• Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,840 m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) – Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing starts with an early morning flight (around 30 minutes) from Kathmandu or Ramechhap to the famous Lukla airstrip, the gateway to the Everest region. Enjoy stunning views of Himalayan peaks during the flight. After landing, meet the rest of the crew and begin trekking. A gentle 3–4-hour hike through pine forests and along the Dudh Koshi River brings you to the village of Phakding.
• Day 4:Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – Cross several high suspension bridges draped with prayer flags as you follow the Dudh Koshi valley upstream. Enter Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and tackle a long uphill stretch. After 6–7 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa town and trading hub of the Khumbu. Weather permitting, you might catch your first glimpse of Everest en route.
• Day 5:Acclimatization Day in Namche (3,440 m) – To adjust to the altitude, spend an extra day in Namche. Take an acclimatization hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Visit the Sherpa Culture Museum or browse the shops and bakeries in Namche. This active rest day helps your body prepare for higher elevations.
• Day 6:Namche to Tengboche (3,860 m) – Trek along a scenic trail with views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam across the valley. Visit the river, have lunch at Phunki Thenga, then ascend through rhododendron and pine forests to Tengboche. Here you’ll visit the famous Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of Khumbu, set against a backdrop of towering mountains. Hiking time ~5 hours.
• Day 7:Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m) – Continue through forests to Deboche and cross the Imja Khola. Pass quaint Sherpa villages like Pangboche as the landscape gradually becomes more rugged and open. Reach Dingboche, a farming village in a broad valley under Ama Dablam, after about 5 hours of trekking. You’ll notice the treeline has vanished, and yaks graze on the alpine pastures.
• Day 8:Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410 m) – Another scheduled rest day for altitude adaptation. Take a morning hike up Nangkartshang Hill (~5,083 m) for spectacular 180° views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. Return to Dingboche for lunch and spend the afternoon resting. By now, you’ll be feeling the thin air, so proper acclimatization is crucial.
• Day 9:Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910 m) – Climb gradually to the windswept memorial area at Thukla Pass, where monuments honor climbers lost on Everest. Then follow the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to the small settlement of Lobuche. The 4–5 hour trek offers emerging views of Pumori, Nuptse, and Lobuche Peak itself looming above. You’re now very close to Everest Base Camp.
• Day 10:Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,140 m), hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) – An exciting and demanding day. Trek about 2–3 hours from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, the last lodge outpost. After a short rest, continue on a rocky trail following the Khumbu Glacier to reach Everest Base Camp – the iconic site where climbers gather for Everest expeditions. You’ll stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain among colorful prayer flags and expedition tents. Savor the moment, take photos, and then return to Gorak Shep for the night. (Distance from Lobuche to EBC via Gorak Shep is 8 km round-trip, taking about 6–7 hours total.)
• Day 11:Kala Patthar (5,550 m) & return to Lobuche – Wake up before dawn for a steep hike up Kala Patthar, a famous viewpoint at 5,545 m. Reaching the summit around sunrise offers a breathtaking close-up of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding peaks bathed in golden light. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. Then retrace your steps down to Lobuche. This is a long day (6+ hours), but your acclimatization and the inspiration of Everest’s view will carry you through.
• Day 12:Lobuche to Lobuche East High Camp (5,400 m) – The climbing phase begins. From Lobuche village, you’ll leave the main EBC trail and hike toward Lobuche Base Camp (around 5,000 m) and further up to High Camp (5,400 m) on a rocky plateau. The terrain is rugged, and you may need to scramble over rocks near the camp. In the afternoon, your climbing guide will conduct a pre-climb training session. You’ll practice using crampons, ice axe, harness, and ropes – essential skills for the summit push. Overnight in a tented camp at High Camp, with an early dinner and rest, as a very early start is planned for summit day.
• Day 13:Summit Lobuche East (6,119 m) & descend to Pheriche (4,240 m) – Summit Day! Wake up around midnight for a quick hot drink and final gear check. By 1–2 AM, start ascending the snowy slopes of Lobuche East by headlamp. It’s a steep climb on rock and ice, with fixed ropes in the steeper sections. At “Crampon Point” (5,800 m) you’ll put on crampons for the glacier and snow sections. Using ascenders on fixed lines, you steadily climb the 45° slope towards the summit ridge. After 5–7 hours of tough climbing, reach the Lobuche East summit (6,119 m) at dawn or early morning! From the top, the panorama is unbelievable – you are surrounded by the giants of the Himalaya, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Pumori, and countless other peaks. Take time to soak in the 360° view and savor your victory. Congratulations, you’ve climbed Lobuche East!
• Day 14:Contingency / Extra Day – An extra day is built into the itinerary as a buffer. If bad weather or any unforeseen event prevented the summit on Day 13, this day gives another chance to attempt Lobuche Peak. If you submitted as planned, you can use the day to rest in Pheriche or explore the area. (If not needed for climbing or rest, this buffer day can also be used at the end in Kathmandu for sightseeing.)
• Day 15: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – Having completed the climb, you’ll trek back at a relaxed pace. The route descends through Orsho and Pangboche, then climbs slightly to Tengboche and back to Namche Bazaar. With the bulk of the adventure behind you, you can enjoy the return journey and notice how the air feels thicker and the surroundings greener as you lose elevation. Trek ~6–7 hours.
• Day 16:Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840 m) – The final day of trekking is a long descent of ~7 hours, retracing the route down the Dudh Koshi valley. Pass by Monjo, exit Sagarmatha National Park, and continue through Phakding before the last short climb to Lukla. By the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Lukla and toast to a successful trek and climb with your team.
• Day 17:Fly Lukla to Kathmandu – Say goodbye to the Khumbu as you take a morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu (weather permitting). Enjoy one last aerial view of the mountains. Back in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax, enjoy a hot shower, and perhaps celebrate with a team dinner.
• Day 18:Departure from Kathmandu – Your Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak adventure comes to an end. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing. Overland Trek Nepal will arrange your airport transfer. Take home incredible memories and a sense of pride for conquering both Everest Base Camp and Lobuche East!

This 18-day Lobuche Peak itinerary provides a balanced mix of trekking, acclimatization, and climbing. Overland Trek Nepal’s route is designed to maximize your chances of summiting Lobuche East while also fully enjoying the EBC trek.

Physical fitness for the Lobuche Peak and EBC trek

Physical preparation is key to completing the Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak climbing successfully. While Lobuche East is considered a non-technical peak for climbing in Nepal, it is still a moderately challenging climb at high altitude. Trekkers attempting this journey should be in excellent health with good endurance, strength, and mental resilience.

Here are some fitness considerations and tips for the Lobuche Peak and EBC trek:

• Cardiovascular Endurance: You’ll be hiking 5–7 hours almost every day on the EBC trek, and the summit climb on Lobuche can be 10+ hours round-trip. Build up your stamina through activities like hiking, running, cycling, or swimming. Aim to comfortably walk long distances (10–15 km) with a daypack before the trip.
• Strength and Flexibility: Steep ascents and descents on rocky terrain require strong legs, core, and balance. Incorporate leg strengthening (squats, lunges), core workouts, and stair climbing into your training. This will help with carrying yourself uphill and stabilizing on uneven ground or while using crampons.
• Altitude Acclimatization: No matter your fitness, high altitude can challenge your body. The itinerary includes rest days in Namche and Dingboche for acclimatization – do not skip these. Being physically fit can help you cope better, but also learn to recognize and respect the signs of altitude sickness. Hydrate well, eat properly, and ascend gradually. Overland’s guides will monitor your health and can adjust the pace if needed.
• Climbing Skills & Training: Although Lobuche East is a non-technical climb suitable for novice climbers, it does involve basic mountaineering techniques. Prior experience with using crampons, an ice axe, and a harness is a plus. If possible, take a beginner mountaineering course or practice indoor rock climbing to get comfortable with heights. Don’t worry if you’re new to climbing – your guide will conduct a training session at Lobuche High Camp (on using fixed ropes, jumars, etc.), and they will fix ropes on technical sections during the ascent. Many fit trekkers with no prior climbing experience have successfully summited Lobuche East under expert guidance.
• Mental Preparation: Trekking for over two weeks in remote high-altitude areas and then climbing through the night to 6,119 m is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Cultivate a positive mindset, patience, and determination. There may be moments of fatigue or doubt (especially on summit night), but with the support of your team and a good attitude, you can overcome them.

Overall, you don’t need to be an elite athlete or an experienced mountaineer for this trip. Yet, you must be well prepared. You must train at least 3–4 months in advance with a mix of cardio and strength workouts. Take part in a long hike carrying a backpack to simulate trek conditions. By the time you arrive in Nepal, you should feel confident in your ability to trek multiple days in a row. Remember, Lobuche Peak climbing involves steep snowy sections up to 45° and thin air – it’s strenuous. It’s often described as a tough trek with some mountaineering, rather than a full technical climb. With proper fitness and a good support crew, however, it is an achievable challenge for adventurers looking to take their trekking to the next level.

How long is the trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp?

From the lodge village of Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (via Gorak Shep), the distance is approximately 8 km (5 miles), and it typically takes around 6–7 hours round-trip. The trek is usually broken into two segments for a day’s itinerary:

• Lobuche to Gorak Shep: The distance from Lobuche to Gorak Shep is about 4 km, taking 2–3 hours. The pathway starts relatively flat but later climbs onto the lateral moraines of the Khumbu Glacier. Traverse through a rocky, rugged path with gradual inclines. Gorak Shep (5,140 m) is a small settlement with a few tea houses and is the last stop before EBC. Many trekkers drop off their packs and have lunch here before continuing to Base Camp.
• Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp: The trekking distance from Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp is roughly 3–4 km each way, taking 2–3 hours to go and about 1.5–2 hours to return. The route from Gorak Shep to EBC winds along glacial debris and sections of loose rock. It’s a gradual ascent with some short, steep parts and can feel quite challenging due to the high altitude and rough terrain. You’ll finally reach EBC at 5,364 m, marked by prayer flags and a rock sign. After celebrating and taking photos at the Base Camp (with the Khumbu Icefall looming ahead), you will return to Gorak Shep by the same route to spend the night.

In summary, Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (out-and-back via Gorak Shep) is a full-day endeavor. You’ll likely depart Lobuche in the morning and return to Gorak Shep or Lobuche by late afternoon. While the Lobuche to EBC distance doesn’t sound very long, the combination of high altitude (over 5,000 m), glacial moraine terrain, and the need to return before dark means trekkers should allocate most of the day for this section. It’s often described as one of the most demanding days of the EBC trek, but standing at Everest Base Camp is a rewarding experience that makes the effort worthwhile.

Lobuche Peak climbing permit

Climbing Lobuche East Peak and trekking in the Everest region requires several permits, which must be obtained from the Nepali authorities. Here are the permits needed for Lobuche Peak Climbing and the Everest Base Camp trek:

• Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: This is required for any trekker entering the Everest (Sagarmatha) National Park. It costs around USD 30 per person (approximately NPR 3,000) for foreigners.
• Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit: Often simply called the local Khumbu permit, this is a fee imposed by the local government for trekking in the Khumbu region. It costs roughly NPR 3,000 (about $30).
• Lobuche Peak Climbing Permit: This is the climbing permit issued by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) for summiting Lobuche East, which is classified as a “Group B” trekking peak. The cost of the climbing permit varies by season: $250 in spring (March–May), $125 in autumn (Sept–Nov), and $70 in winter/summer (Dec–Feb). These rates are per person and are set by the government.

Best time for Everest Base Camp and Lobuche East climb

The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp and climb Lobuche East is during Nepal’s two main trekking seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather in the Himalayas is relatively stable, visibility is generally clear, and temperatures, while cold at night, are manageable for trekking and climbing.

Here’s a breakdown of each season:

• Spring (Mar-May): It is one of the peak trekking seasons in Nepal, including peak climbing. March starts cold (with lingering winter snow at higher elevations), but by April and May, temperatures warm up. Spring offers mild daytime temperatures in the trek (perhaps 10-15°C at Namche, colder higher up) and very cold nights at high camp (down to -20°C or lower). The big advantage is predictable weather, relatively dry and calm, especially in April. Plus, spring is when Everest expeditions happen, so Base Camp is bustling with activity.
• Autumn (Sept-Nov): Another ideal time is post-monsoon time. The monsoon rain clears the dust and haze, resulting in crystal-clear skies from late September onward. Temperatures in autumn are similar to spring or slightly cooler; late October and November can be quite cold at night at high elevations (again, -15°C or lower at Lobuche High Camp). However, days are often sunny and pleasant for trekking. Autumn is known for its stable weather and stunning mountain views – after the monsoon, you’ll see freshly snow-dusted peaks against deep blue skies.

Overall, the best time for the Everest Base Camp and Lobuche East climb is spring and autumn. These months offer the best combination of mild weather, clearer skies, and a higher probability of safe summit attempts. Overland Trek Nepal schedules its Lobuche Peak Climbing expeditions in these windows to maximize success and safety. Whichever season you choose, always be prepared for temperature extremes and some weather unpredictability – in the Himalayas, conditions can change quickly, so proper gear and some flexibility are essential.

Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing Cost

How much does the EBC with Lobuche Peak climb cost? The price of an 18-day Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing package typically ranges from $2,500 to $3,500 per person, depending on the level of service, group size, and inclusions. Overland Trek Nepal offers this trip with professional guides, full logistics, and quality services at a very competitive rate. As of now, our standard package cost is about $2,999 per person (with group discounts available for larger parties). The Lobuche Peak Climbing cost reflects a full package including internal flights, permits, guides, meals, and equipment. Overland Trek Nepal’s package at $2999 is a great value given the comprehensive support (and even lower per person for larger groups).

FAQs about Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing

How difficult is Lobuche Peak Climbing?

Lobuche East Peak climbing is considered moderately difficult – it’s more challenging than a regular trek but less technical than major mountaineering expeditions. Climbers face steep snowy slopes up to 45° and high altitude (6,119 m), which make it strenuous. You don’t need advanced technical climbing experience, but good fitness and some basic mountaineering training are important.

Do I need prior climbing experience to climb Lobuche East?

Previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended, but extensive climbing experience is not strictly required for Lobuche East. This peak is often attempted by first-time climbers who have done treks like Everest Base Camp or similar. Basic knowledge of using crampons, ropes, and an ice axe helps, and your guide will train you at base camp.

How long does it take to trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp?

It takes about 6–7 hours round-trip to trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp and back (via Gorak Shep). The distance one-way from Lobuche to EBC is roughly 8 km. Typically, you’ll hike 2–3 hours to Gorak Shep (5,140 m), then another 2–3 hours to reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).

What permits are required for the Lobuche Peak Climbing?

You will need different permits to climb the Lobuche Peak. They are: (1) Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit ($30) to enter the Everest region, (2) Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit ($20) for local area entry, and (3) a Lobuche East Peak climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association. The climbing permit costs $250 per person in spring, $125 in autumn, and $70 in winter/summer.

When is the best time for the Lobuche Peak climb?

The best time for this climb is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the weather is generally stable, the temperature is moderate, and Everest Base Camp is lively with expedition teams (especially in April). Autumn offers clear skies and excellent mountain views after the monsoon rains, particularly in October and early November.

How much does the Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak climb cost?

The cost for an all-inclusive 18-day EBC with Lobuche Peak package is typically in the range of $2,500 – USD 3,500 per person. Overland Trek Nepal offers this trip for around $2,999 per person (with prices scaling down for larger groups). This price usually covers domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla round trip), all trekking and climbing permits, guide and porter services, accommodations, meals during the trek/climb, group climbing equipment, and other logistics.

How high is Lobuche Peak, and is it the same as Lobuche East?

Lobuche Peak has two main summits: Lobuche East (6,119 m/20,075 ft) and Lobuche West (6,135 m). The Lobuche Peak Climbing trip offered in trekking packages (including this one) refers to Lobuche East. Lobuche East is slightly lower and considered a trekking peak, while Lobuche West is a separate, slightly higher peak that is more technical and requires a full expedition permit.

Conclusion – Why Choose Overland Trek Nepal

Combining Everest Base Camp with Lobuche Peak Climbing is undeniably a challenging endeavor, but the rewards are equally immense. Over 18 days, you will trek through lush valleys and high mountain passes, stand face-to-face with Everest, and ultimately conquer a 6,119 m summit. The journey offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal achievement.

To ensure you get the most out of this epic trek and climb, it’s crucial to go with a reputable, experienced operator. Overland Trek Nepal is a trusted local company that has curated this itinerary to perfection. With Overland’s professional Sherpa guides, carefully planned acclimatization schedule, and top-notch support, you’ll be in excellent hands every step of the way. Their attention to safety, personalized care, and successful track record (with 90% traveler recommendation) mean you can trek with confidence and focus on the experience.

Contact Overland Trek Nepal via email or at +977-9851138871 via our website to secure your spot on the next Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak expedition. Embrace the challenge, and let’s reach new heights together!