Highlights of Pokalde Peak Climbing

Pokalde Peak summit (5,806m) is best for beginner Himalayan summits.
It is found in the gorgeous Everest Region.
Near Kongma La Pass and traditional Everest paths.
Big mountain views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Ama Dablam.
Less congested and quieter climbing adventure.
Combination with the Everest Base Camp trek.
Excellent intro to the Himalayan mountaineering.
Breathtaking Sherpera culture, ice, and mountain scenery.

Trip Overview

Pokalde Peak Climbing is an ideal introductory mountaineering adventure in Nepal that trekkers can use to make their first step into the mountaineering adventures of the Himalayas. Pokalde Peak is located at the center of the beautiful Everest Region, next to the renowned Kongma La Pass, and it is 5,806 meters (19,049 ft). The summit is indeed a rewarding high-altitude experience, although it is said to be one of the easier trekking peaks; the views are breathtaking as they are panoramic.

This apex is a great choice among those climbers who have undertaken other climbing activities, such as Everest Base Camp and wish to be challenged further. It is primarily a non-technical climb, so novice mountaineers who have been well-trained and possess basic climbing qualifications may want to consider this climb. The summit part is the last part and may be simple snow and ice climbing, based on weather conditions, but should not necessitate highly technical experience.

The Himalayan giants, which include Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Ama Dablam are some of the spectacular sights that the climbers can see after the top of Pokalde Peak. The trip will also pass through traditional Sherpa villages, the alpine scenery, glaciers and mountain passes, which will make you be in a complete Himalayan adventure.

Pokalde Peak Climbing would be the best choice for people who want to find the least crowded andmost affordable and reach the Himalayan peak. It is not only about being on top, but it is about confidence, about high-altitude climbing and having that feeling of pride of being on your first Himalayan peak.

How does this adventure begin?

Pokalde Peak climbing expedition starts with your arrival at Kathmandu, where you prepare permits, your guide, and examine your climbing equipment. The real adventure begins in the beautiful Everest Region after a scenic flight to Lukla, which is only a short time.

You start at Lukla and walk past the traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar and gradually increase in altitude with some of the best Himalayan sceneries. The path will head all the way to the Everest base camp trek regions of the high mountain ranges that are close to the Kongma La Pass, which will help to acclimate well before reaching the base of the Pokalde.

On the advice of a guide and rudimentary climbing training, you then start your summit effort, transforming a unique journey into your inaugural actual Himalayan climbing mission.

Pokalde Peak Climbing Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

It is Welcome to Nepal, the entry way to Pokalde Peak climbing. Our representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu whereby you will be taken to hotel in a personal vehicle giving you a pleasant beginning of your journey.

You will have some time to relax and have a rest after the flight. Our team will then hold an elaborate pre-trekking and climbing briefing session, and you will be provided with a briefing of the program, and high altitude safety measures and acclimatization advice. It is also the ideal moment to pack all your climbing and trekking equipment such as boots, crampons, harness, sleeping bags, and technical equipment in order to ensure that all is on hand and in good condition when you finally go up the mountain.

Once you have been briefed and your equipment prepared you can either spend time exploring the colorful streets of Thamel, partake in local delicacies, or just relax knowing that all the preparations have been made and the next day you will be off to the Himalayas on an adventure to the Everest Region. This day will establish the basis on a safe, well prepared, and memorable Pokalde Peak Climbing trip.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Tourist Standard Hotel

Day 02: Flight to Lukla and Trek to Phakding

Your Pokalde Peak Climbing trip starts with an early morning flight to Kathmandu to Lukla, which is the entrance to the Everest Region.

The mountain flight experience also provides scenic air sightseeing of the Himalayas and landing on the popular Tenzing-Hillary Airport, one of the most thrilling landing airstrips in the world. Once you get there, you are greeted by the amazing scenery of Kongde Ri and the mountains around it.

Once you have met your trekking crew and got your gear packed, you are off on the first day of your trek towards Phakding. The path is then smooth going down the bustling village of Lukla and along the beautiful Dudh Koshi River. As you walk through a well-trodden stone road, you go through beautiful Sherpa villages like Chheplung, Chaurikharka, and Ghat with beautiful Kusum Kanguru and Khumbila in sight.

The Phakding walk is also not very difficult and takes three to four hours, which is an ideal one to begin with acclimatization. As soon as you arrive there, you take your rest at a comfortable teahouse and set forth on the next part of your Pokalde Peak Climbing expedition to Namche Bazaar.

Important Travel Information

The air traffic can even force flights to Lukla to be made at Manthali Airport in Ramechhap as opposed to Kathmandu during peak seasons of trekking (March-May and October-November). Manthali is some 4-5 hours drive away from Kathmandu. A smooth transfer may be made using private transport.

Passengers Airline schedules vary with weather changes and can be adjusted depending on the airline’s activities and traffic.

Helicopter Option

To enjoy the comfort and time-saving feature, trekkers can have a direct helicopter ride between Kathmandu and Lukla in their Pokalde Peak Climbing expedition. The alternative can save you on walking long distances on the road, and a pleasant beginning to your Himalayan adventure.

Duration

3 hours

Max Altitude

2650 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 03: Trek to Namche bazar

The hike between Phakding and Namche Bazaar is also one of the most significant days of your trip on the Everest Region. The route goes along the Dudh Koshi River crossing a number of suspension bridges and finally ending in Monjo, the gateway to Sagarmatha National Park. Past the popular Hillary Bridge the trail ascends up the steep slope through pine forests to Namche.

It is a physically challenging yet satisfying uphill stretch that in a clear day will give the initial view of Mount Everest. On reaching Namche Bazaar, you take a seat in the colorful Sherpa town and set out to greater heights as your Pokalde Peak Climbing expedition is in progress.

Duration

3 hours

Max Altitude

3440m

Activity

hiking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 04: Acclimatization Hike to Hotel Everest View

A worthwhile acclimatization day will be spent in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize safely to the rising altitude. You do not just spend the entire day lying around, but rather hike scenically to Hotel Everest View, rated as one of the top luxury hotels in the world.

The path ascends slowly over Namche in pine forests and bare ridges with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam and other mountains around. The climb can last approximately 2-3 hours, and the round trip would be ideal for acclimatizing your body to the altitude and also provide the stunning Himalayan outlook.

With the tea and mountain views, you take time to relax after spending time at Hotel Everest View before going down to Namche Bazaar to stay overnight. This proactive process of acclimatization highly offers you a safe and successful summit onwards.

Duration

3 hours

Max Altitude

3880 m

Activity

hiking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 05: Trek to the Tengboche Village

After breakfast at Namche Bazaar, the trail then proceeds to a beautiful ridge with an amazing view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail moves down to Dudh Koski River, and then ascends through rhododendron bushes to Tengboche. The Tengboche Monastery is one of the famous and it is located in this beautiful village, the spiritual center of the Khumbu region. Overnight in Tengboche.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3860 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 06: Trek to Dingboche Village

The journey proceeds to the village of Pangboche, where one can see Ama Dablam closely. The scenery slowly becomes an alpine scenery rather than a forest. The higher you become, the more thin air and dramatic scenery. Rivers and yak pastures have been crossed, and you arrive at Dingboche, a small village with impressive mountains of the Himalayas. Overnight in Dingboche.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

4410 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Acclimatizing day in Dingboche

Safety and success in the Pokalde Peak Climbing is only possible through proper acclimatization. Today, you walk to a better altitude like Nangkartshang Hill to have beautiful sights of Makalu, Lhotse, and other natural peaks, and then go back to Dingboche to rest. This assists your body in adapting to the rising altitude.

Duration

3-4 hours

Max Altitude

5083 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 08: Trek to Lobuche Village

The trail is also slowly increasing up the valley and crossing memorial monuments of those climbers who were killed in the Himalayas. The path has stunning sceneries of Nuptse and Pumori leading to Lobuche, a high-altitude small settlement. Overnight in Lobuche.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

4910 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 09: Trek to Gorakshep and, Everest Base Camp

Today is one of the points of the journey. You hike to Gorakshep and go on to Everest Base Camp 5,364 meters. It is something one will not forget once he is at the top of the highest mountain in the world. Having seen the views of Khumbu Glacier and taken photographs, you spend the night in Gorakshep.

Duration

7-8 hours

Max Altitude

5,364 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 10: Early morning hike to Kalapathar and trek down to Lobuche village

In the morning, you take a hike to Kala Patthar to have the best panoramic sunrise view of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks. Once you are saturated with the breathtaking mountains, you hike down to Gorakshep and go on with trekking down to Lobuche to spend the night.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

5,550 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 11: Trek to Pokalde Base Camp through Kongma La Pass 5,535 mand Training

This is a difficult and adventurous day, as you pass the high Kongma La Pass (5,535m). The pass provides incredible mountain ranges and glacial scenery. On the other end, there is Pokalde Base Camp. During the afternoon, your climbing guide will give you the basic training on the use of crampons, ice axe, harness, and rope techniques in anticipation of summit day.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

5,300 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 12: Pokalde Peak Summit and back to Dingboche

The day of the summit starts very early in the morning. The ascent is rocky and may include snowy areas, depending on the conditions. Once you get to the top of the 5806m peak in Pokalde Peak, you are rewarded with the spectacular panoramic view of the Everest, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and the whole Khumbu valley. Once you have rejoiced at your success, you make your steps down and walk down to Dingboche to rest well deserved.

Duration

8-9 hours

Max Altitude

5,806 m

Activity

climbing

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar

You go back to the valley, through Tengboche, passing suspension bridges across the river Dudh Koshi. The falling down is more comfortable with the increase in oxygen levels. In the afternoon, you will be back in Namche Bazaar where you can get a hot shower, bakery good and a nice lodge.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3440 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 14: Trek to Lukla

The last day of trekking entails following the river upstream through a forest and tiny Sherpa valleys. Several crossings of suspension bridges and slow ascents take you to Lukla. You are celebrating your team’s victorious Everest Base Camp and Pokalde Peak Climbing journey in the evening.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

2800 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 15: Flight Back to Kathmandu

In the early morn you fly back to Kathmandu (or Manthali in peak season), taking a picturesque flight. On arrival, check-in hotel. The remainder of the day is at liberty to go shopping, relax, or enjoy the vivacious Kathmandu environment.

Duration

30 minutes

Max Altitude

1300 m

Activity

flight

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Tourist Standard Hotel

Day 16: Departure

Your memorable Pokalde Peak Climbing trip is over. You will be taken to the international airport to fly, depending on your flight schedule, with the everlasting memories of the Himalayas.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Excluded

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Pokalde Peak Climbing

Pokalde Peak Climbing Best Season

The spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons are the most appropriate times to climb Pokalde Peak. In spring, the weather is favourable, the rhododendron forest is in full blossom and the weather is relatively steady, thus ideal in terms of trekking and climbing.

Autumn is instead the season that offers clear air, great visibility, and dry weather, therefore enabling the climbers to have a clear panoramic view of the Himalayan giants. It is so cold during winter and snow-covered tracks, whereas during the monsoon season, there is nothing but heavy rain, slippery routes, and poor visibility of the mountains, which complicates climbing. It is advisable to schedule your climbing in the best seasons to enjoy the most and this is also safe.

Elevation and Distance

The height of Pokalde Peak is 5,806 meters (19,049 feet), and this is an ideal starting point for trekking. The distance that you have to cover during trekking also depends on the trail you follow, but generally, an average trip covers 65-75 kilometres between Lukla and the peak and back. The expedition starts at Lukla, the base of the Everest area and goes through gorgeous Sherpa villages and high-altitude landscapes. The ascent is slow and steady with a gradual rise, thus climbers are able to acclimatise properly in the course of traversing through one of the most scenic and adventurous routes.

Maximum / Minimum Walking Distance / Minimum Altitude

The lowest altitude in the expedition is Lukla, which is 2,800 meters, and the highest is the summit of Pokalde Peak, which is 5,806 meters. Climbers spend 5 to 7 hours on average walking 8 to 12 km each day, depending on the weather conditions of the mountain and the terrain. Trekking and climbing rhythm is constructed in a way that it promotes acclimatisation so that the climbers will slowly adapt to the higher altitudes and at the same time feel the excitement of making daily progress towards the summit.

Preparation and Training

A successful climb of the Pokalde Peak requires physical preparation. Running, cycling, swimming and climbing stairs are examples of cardiovascular exercises that enhance stamina. Leg exercises and strength training will enhance stamina in ascending the steep hills and hiking with a heavy backpack will give a simulated experience of the actual trekking environment. The snow and ice sections around the summit will be ready with basic mountaineering training, the use of crampons, ice axes and rope technique. Mental readiness and patience that is exercised throughout the day on long trekking days is also important in having a smooth expedition.

Difficulty Level

Pokalde Peak is a trekking peak, hence it can be assessed as a middle-level experience for climbers. The hike in itself is not a difficult one, though the summit part may consist of snow, ice and basic rope labour based on the conditions. It is also important to have the due acclimatisation since the climb can be physically challenging due to the altitude and weather conditions. In general, it can be said to be moderate in terms of difficulty, which is suitable for first-time climbers or beginners who have some experience in trekking but want to shift to mountaineering.

Can a beginner join Pokalde Peak?

Yes, with proper preparations, beginners could also try Pokalde Peak. It is mostly non-technical and can be approached even by first time in the Himalayan climbers with the help of the guided expeditions. Although previous experience in trekking is desirable, it is not compulsory. The climbers should be physically fit, mentally tough and be willing to be guided by skilled Sherpa guides. The mutual experience, gradual acclimatization, and proper training are guaranteed to make the first time of a first mountaineering experience a safe and rewarding experience.

Altitude Sickness

The elevated heights will threaten Pokalde Peak by altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It can be characterized by the following symptoms, headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Some of the mitigation strategies that could be practised to reduce the risk include. climbers climbing slowly, the itinerary should have days of acclimatisation, the climbers should be hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Experienced leaders also take care of health and assistive oxygen may be present in case of any emergency. The first signs should be noted, and the de-escalation should be practised in case of need, which is a key to safety.

Alternate Routes

There are a number of routes that you can use in Pokalde Peak, according to your choice of trekking. Various climbers accompany it with the traditional Everest Base Camp journey in order to have a complete picture of the Everest region. The other way to go is via the Everest Three Passes Trek that has other high-altitude challenges. Pokalde is also occasionally used together with Lobuche East and other mountains in a multi-summit expedition. These other paths are flexible and allow for a greater adventure.

Food, Drink, Accommodation, and Transportation

In the trek, most of the accommodation is through teahouses or lodges, which provide simple but comfortable rooms. There is a possibility of higher camps that will necessitate camping gear with pre-cooked food by your climbing team. There is generally a variety of local staples such as Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and tea or coffee and the choices in larger villages such as Namche Bazaar include simple foreign food. Transportation will involve a scenic flight that starts Kathmandu to Lukla and trekking on clearly marked trails. Helicopters or local jeeps can be used in cases of emergencies.

Devices, Charging, WiFi and Communication

It is typically possible to charge devices in the teahouses on the way and do so at a slight fee. The coverage of mobile networks is only available in low areas and major villages such as Namche Bazaar, but the signal becomes poor in high altitudes. Larger lodges generally offer WiFi at an extra fee but at a very slow speed. In high camps, communication or during the summit push, it is advisable to use satellite phones or walkie-talkies.

Permits

The permits needed to have a trek in the Everest region are enough to climb Pokalde Peak. It will require the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee. With such permits, you are able to hike and explore around Khumbu rightfully and aid local conservation and communities. They are easy to organise in Kathmandu prior to your trip or in checkpoints along the way, thus assuring a successful inception to your Himalayan adventure.

What to Expect

Cultural, natural, and mountaineering experiences are some of the things that climbers should look at. It traverses beautiful Sherpa villages, the mountain scenery and glacier fields. Prior to the summit push, guides offer a lesson on climbing procedures and safety. The mountain climbing season starts in the early morning hours, which may be at sub-zero temperatures, yet the views of the mountains Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the surrounding mountains are all worth the effort. The climb down enables the climbers to explore their accomplishment as they appreciate the calm Himalayan scenery.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Yes, we do recommend the travel insurance for the Pokalde Peak climbing. It will include high altitude trekking and mountaineering, helicopter evacuation, medical emergency, and cancellation of the trip. Accidents, altitude sickness, or unplanned weather may present a dangerous situation and insurances are to cover climbers and provide them with support during their experience.

What is the Next Step Climbers Can Take? Pokalde Peak

Having successfully climbed the Pokalde Peak, climbers usually engage in other Himalayan expeditions to keep climbing the mountain. The most common ones are Island Peak, Lobuche east and Mera Peak. To the advanced climbers, the Everest region presents challenging experiences on the higher and more technical peaks. The Pokalde Peak is a good place to introduce Himalayan climbers and develop the confidence and skills to be used in further expeditions.

Altitude Chart of Pokalde Peak Climbing

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Where is the location of Pokalde Peak?

Pokalde is the Peak in the beautiful Everest Region of Nepal, which is close to the Kongma La Pass in the Everest Three Passes route.

How high is Pokalde Peak?

The Pokalde Peak is 5,806 meters (19,049 feet) above sea level.

How long does the expedition take?

Pokalde Peak climbing trip typically lasts 12-16 days, though it is a rough estimate because of the acclimatization plan and itinerary.

Can I combine Pokalde Peak with other treks?

Yes, it is often used together with the traditional trek to the Everest Base Camp, or other mountains such as Lobuche East.

Preparation & Fitness

Do I need climbing experience?

Past experience of trekking is not a prerequisite. It is advised that basic training in mountaineering and physical fitness is necessary.

Can beginner climbers climb Pokalde Peak?

Yes, Pokalde Peak is one of the trekking peaks in Nepal, which can be said to be beginner-friendly. First-time climbers with strong physical and acclimatization can easily make it to the mountain top with the help of an experienced guide.

How challenging is the Pokalde Peak?

It belongs to the category of trekking peaks of intermediate level. It is primarily a non-technical climb, although the last summit part can have snow and a simple use of a rope, depending on the weather.

Permits

What permits are required?

You require a Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) climbing permit, Sagarmatha National Park permit, and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit.

Accommodation and Facilities

What type of accommodation is available?

You will remain in teahouses during the trek. Higher altitude camps that are close to the summit might require camping.

Weather & Seasons

When is the best season to climb the Pokalde Peak?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most preferable times, as they are stable and the mountain can be viewed.

Health & Safety

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, it is highly recommended that travel insurance be taken to cover the high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.

Is there a problem with altitude sickness?

Yes, as the climb is up to 5,806 meters, one can feel altitude sickness. Risk reduction should be met by proper acclimatization, hydration, and slow climb.

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