Cime Himalaya

Everest and Lhotse Expedition

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Duration
60 days
Activity
Expedition
Max. altitude
8,848 m / 29,028 ft
Highest overnight
8,848 m / 29,028 ft
Group size
Min 2+
Difficulty
Very Strenuous
Trip starts/ends
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Trekking starts/ends
Lukla / Lukla
Best season
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
Accommodation
3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Camp/Lodge during the trek
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek
Transportation
All ground transportation and domestic flight as per itinerary

Highlights

  • Trekking to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) – A scenic, challenging trek to Base Camp, where you'll acclimatize and prepare for your climbs.
  • Acclimatization and Preparation – Spend time acclimatizing at various points like Khumbu Icefall, Camp I (6,065m), and Camp II (6,400m).
  • Climbing Lhotse (8,516m) – Depending on the itinerary, climbers may summit Lhotse first (using the same route as Everest, but taking a detour at South Col).
  • Navigating the Khumbu Icefall – One of the most hazardous sections of the Everest climb, requiring careful navigation of crevasses and ice towers.
  • Camp III (7,470m) – The final high-altitude camp before the summit of Everest, located on the Lhotse Face.
  • Summit Push to Everest (8,848m) – The final ascent to Everest’s summit, crossing the South Col, Hillary Step, and the infamous "Death Zone."
  • Lhotse Summit (8,516m) – If climbing both, Lhotse’s summit is typically achieved after Everest, as it shares much of the climbing route.

Overview

Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters / 29,031.7 feet) and Lhotse (8,516 meters / 27,939 feet) are two of the most iconic and challenging peaks in the world, located in the majestic Himalayas of Nepal. Everest, the highest point on Earth, is known as "Sagarmatha" in Nepal and "Chomolungma" in Tibet, while Lhotse, often considered Everest's twin, is its neighbor and holds the title of the 4th highest mountain. Both peaks are a symbol of human endurance and represent two of the greatest challenges for mountaineers seeking to push their limits in the world of high-altitude climbing.

Climbers on an Everest and Lhotse expedition will experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, with both mountains offering distinct but equally demanding challenges. Everest draws climbers due to its legendary status, while Lhotse, known for its steep and technical climbing route, is often seen as the more difficult climb of the two, offering experienced climbers a more specialized experience. The route to Lhotse requires technical climbing over rock, ice, and steep ridges, while the journey to Everest involves acclimatization and dealing with altitude sickness. Together, they provide a truly complete Himalayan mountaineering experience.

Everest and Lhotse Expedition Overview:
The Everest and Lhotse Expedition offers mountaineers the chance to summit two of the most sought-after peaks in the world in one journey. Climbers typically start their expedition with the standard trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in the Khumbu region, which takes several days and allows climbers to acclimatize to the high altitude. From Base Camp, climbers will either attempt to summit Everest first or proceed directly to Lhotse, depending on their personal goals and the team's strategy.

The ascent to Everest involves navigating through the Khumbu Icefall, Camp I, Camp II, and eventually reaching the South Col before attempting the summit. For Lhotse, the route involves crossing the Lhotse Face and climbing through technical terrain, which includes rock climbing and steep ice walls. Climbers often choose to summit Lhotse before Everest to avoid the overcrowded summit push on Everest or to treat Lhotse as a warm-up for the final push to Everest’s summit. This combination expedition provides a more extensive experience of the Himalayas, allowing climbers to test their skills on both a technical climb (Lhotse) and an endurance challenge (Everest).

Everest and Lhotse Expedition Permits:
To undertake the Everest and Lhotse Expedition, climbers must obtain several necessary permits. For Mount Everest, climbers need an Everest Climbing Permit issued by the Government of Nepal, which grants access to the south side of the mountain. Similarly, an entry permit for Sagarmatha National Park and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card are required for trekkers entering the Everest region. For Lhotse, an additional climbing permit is necessary, which is distinct from the Everest permit but falls under the same regulations.

The cost of these permits can vary depending on the season, with the highest fees typically during the pre-monsoon spring season. These permits are usually arranged by expedition companies like Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition, ensuring that all paperwork is handled smoothly, and climbers don’t have to worry about the logistical complexities. Cime Himalaya’s team takes care of obtaining these permits, ensuring the process is seamless, so climbers can focus on their journey rather than administrative hurdles.

Best Time for Everest and Lhotse Expedition:
The best time to attempt an Everest and Lhotse Expedition is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season, typically between late March and early June. This period offers the most stable weather and the most favorable conditions for summit attempts. The spring months provide a window of clear skies and relatively calm weather, which is essential for a successful summit bid. However, this time also sees a high number of climbers, meaning the mountain can become crowded, especially around the summit push, which might involve waiting in long lines at higher camps.

The autumn season, from late September to early November, offers a quieter and less crowded alternative but with more unpredictable weather. While the risk of avalanches and extreme cold is higher, those who attempt the climb in the autumn often face fewer competitors, making it an appealing option for climbers looking for a more solitary experience. Regardless of the time of year, acclimatization is key, and climbers must be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Everest and Lhotse Expedition Difficulty:
Climbing both Everest and Lhotse is an incredibly difficult and physically demanding feat that should not be taken lightly. Mount Everest, though non-technical in the sense that it doesn’t require advanced rock climbing skills, presents its own set of challenges, especially in terms of high-altitude endurance and the risk of altitude sickness. The final push to the summit involves navigating dangerous terrain such as the Khumbu Icefall, the Hillary Step, and the South Col, all while dealing with low oxygen levels and extreme weather conditions.

Lhotse, on the other hand, is considered a more technically challenging climb. Its steep slopes, exposed rock faces, and technical ice climbing sections require advanced mountaineering skills. The Lhotse Face, in particular, is notorious for its steep and icy terrain, requiring climbers to rely on fixed ropes and other climbing tools to safely navigate the section. This combination of altitude, physical demands, and technical skills makes the Everest and Lhotse Expedition one of the most difficult mountaineering challenges in the world, requiring careful preparation and expert guidance.

Major Highlights for Everest and Lhotse Expedition:
The Everest and Lhotse Expedition is filled with several major highlights that make the journey both challenging and awe-inspiring. One of the biggest highlights is the trek to Everest Base Camp, which provides climbers with stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Lhotse, Makalu, and Nuptse. The trek itself is an incredible adventure, offering a unique cultural experience with visits to Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and incredible vistas along the way.

Once at Base Camp, climbers get to experience the excitement of being at the starting point of some of the most iconic climbs in the world. Another highlight is navigating the technical challenges of Lhotse, especially the Lhotse Face, which offers some of the most demanding climbing sections on the mountain. Reaching the summit of Everest is, of course, the pinnacle of the expedition—standing on top of the world provides an unmatched sense of achievement. These moments, along with the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, make this expedition one of the most rewarding mountaineering experiences.

Meals and Accommodation for Everest and Lhotse Expedition:
During the Everest and Lhotse Expedition, climbers will experience a variety of accommodations, starting with teahouses and lodges during the trek to Everest Base Camp. These provide basic amenities such as beds, communal dining areas, and simple but nourishing meals that cater to the high-altitude demands of trekkers. Once at Everest Base Camp and higher camps, climbers transition to more rugged conditions, where they will sleep in tents and consume meals prepared by experienced cooks who accompany the expedition.

The meals provided are high in carbohydrates and protein to fuel the body during the strenuous climb. While base camps and lower camps typically offer more variety, higher-altitude camps feature simpler, high-energy meals such as pasta, rice, soup, and energy bars. Although the options become more limited as the altitude increases, the food is designed to ensure climbers receive adequate nutrition to handle the physical demands of the climb. Staying hydrated and properly nourished is critical at high altitudes to avoid exhaustion and other altitude-related health issues.

Networking and Communication for Everest and Lhotse Expedition:
Effective communication is crucial during the Everest and Lhotse Expedition, both for climbers’ safety and for maintaining contact with base support teams. Throughout the trek and ascent, climbers have access to satellite phones, radios, and other communication equipment, ensuring they can stay connected with their expedition leaders, family members, and emergency rescue services. In case of emergencies, such as altitude sickness or accidents, having a reliable communication system is vital for ensuring timely medical intervention and assistance.

While internet and mobile phone coverage are limited in the Everest region, satellite communication allows climbers to stay in touch with the outside world. At base camps and higher camps, these devices are critical for receiving weather updates, coordinating logistics, and communicating with guides and sherpas. The communication systems in place offer a sense of security and allow climbers to focus on the task at hand without worrying about their safety or missing out on vital information.

Why Choose Us – Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition:
Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition stands out as an ideal partner for your Everest and Lhotse Expedition due to our extensive experience, commitment to safety, and expert team of guides and support staff. Our team consists of seasoned professionals, including Sherpas who have summited Everest and Lhotse multiple times. We pride ourselves on offering personalized service, ensuring that each climber is well-prepared, supported, and guided throughout the journey.

We manage all aspects of the expedition, from acquiring permits and arranging accommodation to organizing medical support and ensuring top-quality equipment is provided. Our focus is on ensuring a smooth, safe, and rewarding experience for our clients, with a strong emphasis on acclimatization and personalized care. By choosing Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition, you are partnering with a company that understands the complexities of high-altitude mountaineering and prioritizes your success and well-being at every step. Join us for an unforgettable adventure on the world's highest peaks, and let us help you achieve your mountaineering goals with expertise and safety at the forefront.

Trip Itinerary

Trip itineraries are customizable according to your timetable and budget. Simply, Contact Us.

Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest and acclimatize to the local time zone. In the evening, you may want to take a short stroll around the city or relax before the big journey ahead. The team will meet for a welcome dinner and a briefing about the expedition.

Today will be spent finalizing your preparations for the climb. You’ll meet your expedition leaders, get a detailed briefing about the itinerary, and review the climbing logistics. The gear check will ensure that all your equipment is ready for the trek and climb, and we’ll also complete any necessary official formalities, such as permits and documentation. In the afternoon, you can explore the bustling streets of Kathmandu or rest as you prepare for the adventure ahead.

After breakfast, you will take an early flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a thrilling flight with views of the Himalayan mountains. Upon arriving in Lukla, you will begin your trek toward Phakding, which is a relatively easy walk through the lush valley and past Sherpa villages. The route follows the Dudh Koshi River, and you will reach Phakding by afternoon. You will spend the night in a local teahouse.

The trek today is longer, but very scenic, as you pass through suspension bridges, forests, and small Sherpa villages. You will gradually gain altitude, so it’s important to go at a steady pace. The trail takes you to Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region and a key acclimatization stop. Namche is a bustling hub with a variety of shops, cafes, and a unique mountain culture. You will spend the night here, preparing for the upcoming days.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization. While you may rest, you can take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for an incredible panoramic view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks. The hike will help your body adjust to the higher altitude while offering the opportunity to enjoy stunning vistas. In the afternoon, you can explore the town, visit the local monastery, or relax.

You will begin today’s trek by descending slightly, passing through beautiful forests and crossing suspension bridges. The highlight of the day will be Tengboche Monastery, a key religious site for the Sherpa people. After visiting the monastery and enjoying the views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, you will continue on to Debuche, where you’ll spend the night at a teahouse.

Today, the trail ascends steadily as you make your way to Dingboche, a village located in the Imja Valley. The trek offers fantastic views of the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam. Dingboche is at an altitude of 4,400 meters, so be sure to take your time to adjust and hydrate. You’ll have your first views of the mighty Lhotse, the focus of your upcoming climb. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Dingboche.

As part of the acclimatization process, today will be spent resting in Dingboche. However, to help your body adjust to the higher altitude, you will take a short hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,000m). From the hill, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest and Lhotse. The rest of the day will be for relaxation and preparation for the next steps of the trek.

After acclimatizing in Dingboche, you will continue your journey towards Lobuche, which lies at an altitude of 4,910 meters. The trail passes through rocky terrain, offering beautiful views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks. You will notice the air becoming thinner as you ascend, so it's important to keep a slow and steady pace. Lobuche will be your base for the night as you prepare for the next phase of the climb.

This is a historic day as you trek to Everest Base Camp! The route to Base Camp takes you along the Khumbu Glacier, passing through rocky moraines and offering fantastic views of the surrounding peaks. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, you will stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain, Everest (8,848m). Take time to reflect on your incredible journey. After spending some time at Base Camp, you will return to Lobuche for the night.

The primary focus of the next few weeks will be the climbing period for Lhotse. The team will follow a carefully structured plan, which includes ascending through different camps (Camp I, Camp II, and Camp III), acclimatizing, and preparing for the summit attempt. This period allows for gradual ascents to higher altitudes, ensuring the team is prepared for the final summit push. Your expert guides and support team will be with you every step of the way, monitoring conditions and keeping safety a top priority.

After a successful summit of Lhotse (or completing your Lhotse expedition), you will return to Base Camp for rest and preparation for your Everest summit attempt. During this time, your guides and support team will evaluate the conditions and get the necessary supplies in place. You will also have time to rest and mentally prepare for the upcoming challenge of Everest.

The period for climbing Everest will follow a similar schedule to Lhotse, but with additional precautions due to the higher altitude and more challenging terrain. You will ascend through several camps (Camp I, Camp II, Camp III, and Camp IV), each requiring physical strength, technical skills, and mental fortitude. Summit day will depend on weather conditions, but the goal is to stand on the roof of the world, at 8,848 meters, and experience the awe-inspiring views. Afterward, you will descend to Base Camp.

Once your summit attempts are complete, the next step is to clean up Base Camp and ensure all equipment and waste are properly taken care of. You will pack up your gear, remove any waste, and prepare to descend back down to lower altitudes. The team will carefully clear the area, leaving no trace of the expedition.

After clearing Base Camp, you will begin your descent, retracing your steps through the Khumbu region. The trek back to Pheriche is relatively easy compared to the ascent, but it’s still important to maintain good hydration and a steady pace. Pheriche offers a peaceful setting for rest after the challenging climbs.

You will continue your descent, trekking through the beautiful valley and passing through villages such as Tengboche. The return to Namche Bazaar will be both physically easier and emotionally rewarding, as you’ll have time to reflect on your Everest and Lhotse achievements. Enjoy your final evening in this vibrant town.

The final leg of the trek will take you back to Lukla. This is a relatively short but scenic day of trekking. Once you arrive in Lukla, you can rest and celebrate with your team, reflecting on the epic journey you’ve just completed. Overnight in Lukla.

You will catch an early flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you will have a celebratory farewell dinner with the entire expedition team, where you can share stories from the journey and congratulate one another on the remarkable achievements.

This day is free for you to relax, explore Kathmandu, or visit historical sites like Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, or the ancient temples of Durbar Square. If you need any final shopping, this is also a great time to pick up souvenirs. The evening can be spent at leisure, preparing for your departure.

After an unforgettable journey to Everest and Lhotse, the time has come to bid farewell to Nepal. A representative from Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition will assist you with your transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your incredible expedition. Safe travels and we hope to see you on another adventure soon!

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Cost Includes

  • All arrival and departure transportation from the airport to hotel and vice versa.
  • 3*** hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis (upgrade available at extra cost).
  • All ground transportation as per the itinerary.
  • Domestic airfare: Lukla to Kathmandu and return.
  • Personal trek gear: sleeping bags, duffel bags, and down jackets.
  • Full board meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon refreshments).
  • Services of experienced guides and porters (includes wages, meals, accommodation, transport allowance, and medical insurance for staff).
  • Welcome or farewell group dinner with trek briefing.
  • Comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
  • Everest and Lhotse climbing permits.
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System).
  • Everest National Park Permit.
  • All government taxes.
  • Assistance with gear rental and purchase (if necessary).
  • High-altitude training and safety briefings before the expedition.
  • Emergency rescue and evacuation support (if needed).

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal visa fees.
  • Medical and travel insurance.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and personal expenses (e.g., laundry).
  • Emergency evacuation (if needed) and helicopter services.
  • Extra snacks and drinking water (own expense).
  • Costs for early return from the trek for personal reasons or sickness (claimable from insurance).
  • Personal medical kit (as per your doctor’s advice).
  • Tips for guides and porters.
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  • Excellent customer service. Our travel experts are ready to help you 24/7.
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Frequently Asked Questions

The Everest and Lhotse Expedition is an extraordinary mountaineering adventure that combines summiting two of the world's highest peaks: Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters/29,031.7 feet) and Lhotse (8,516 meters/27,939 feet). Located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, Everest is the highest mountain on Earth, while Lhotse, often regarded as Everest’s neighbor, is the fourth highest peak. The expedition involves trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC), acclimatizing at various camps, and attempting to summit both peaks. Climbing these two majestic mountains in one expedition requires a high level of mountaineering expertise, stamina, and acclimatization to high-altitude environments.

Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition has a proven track record of successfully guiding climbers to the summits of Everest and Lhotse. Our team consists of highly experienced guides and Sherpas with in-depth knowledge of the mountain terrain and weather conditions. We prioritize safety, ensuring that our clients are fully supported throughout the entire journey. Our approach includes careful acclimatization schedules, personalized guidance, and logistical support to help you achieve your goals. With years of expertise and a commitment to excellence, Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition offers the best chance for success on Everest and Lhotse.

Climbing both Everest and Lhotse requires exceptional physical fitness and mountaineering experience. Participants should be in excellent cardiovascular condition and have significant high-altitude trekking or climbing experience. The expedition involves long days of trekking at high altitudes, and summit pushes will test your stamina and mental endurance. Previous experience on mountains of at least 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) is highly recommended, as is training in mountaineering techniques. You will need to be capable of handling harsh weather conditions, extreme cold, and physical exhaustion over prolonged periods.

Similar to an Everest expedition, climbing both Everest and Lhotse requires high-quality gear suitable for extreme altitudes. Essential equipment includes:


Mountaineering boots, crampons, and ice axes

Climbing harness, ropes, and carabiners

Sleeping bags rated for extreme cold temperatures

Down suits, jackets, gloves, and other cold-weather gear

High-altitude tents, stoves, and cooking equipment

Personal safety gear such as a helmet, headlamp, and goggles

Oxygen tanks (for higher camps) and other specialized mountaineering gear

Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition provides a comprehensive gear list and can assist with renting equipment if necessary.

While Everest and Lhotse are close to each other geographically, they present distinct challenges. The key difference lies in the route:

Everest: The summit push involves climbing through the South Col (Camp 4), and then ascending the Southeast Ridge to the summit. It is a more technical climb with a greater focus on managing altitude sickness and the long, strenuous final summit push.

Lhotse: The Lhotse climb typically involves taking a more technical route, which shares some sections with Everest’s summit push but diverges near the South Col. Lhotse’s summit involves navigating steep ice and rock climbing sections, making it technically more challenging than Everest in certain areas. However, Lhotse is a slightly shorter climb, making the ascent less time-consuming than Everest’s.

The cost of an Everest and Lhotse Expedition can range between $40,000 to $90,000 USD, depending on the services included, the level of support, and whether you opt for a fully guided expedition with all-inclusive services. The cost typically covers permits, guide and Sherpa fees, accommodation, meals, transportation (flights to Lukla and back), gear rental, oxygen supply, and logistical support. Custom packages are available based on your requirements. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition ensures that you receive the highest standard of service and safety throughout your journey.

Climbing both Everest and Lhotse carries risks typical of high-altitude mountaineering, including altitude sickness, extreme weather conditions, avalanches, crevasses, and physical exhaustion. The most significant risks include severe altitude sickness (due to the extreme height), exposure to cold (frostbite), and the physically demanding nature of the climbs. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition implements a thorough risk management strategy, ensuring climbers acclimatize properly, follow strict safety protocols, and are always supported by experienced guides and Sherpas. We also have emergency evacuation plans in place and maintain communication with medical teams for any unforeseen circumstances.

Preparing for this dual summit requires a comprehensive physical and mental training program. The preparation should begin at least 6-12 months before the expedition, focusing on strength, endurance, and mountaineering skills. Specific areas to train include:

High-altitude trekking (training on mountains or high-altitude locations)

Technical climbing skills (rock and ice climbing)

Cardiovascular conditioning and strength training

Mental preparation to handle extreme weather, fatigue, and the psychological toll of high-altitude climbs Additionally, it’s essential to have experience climbing at altitudes above 6,000 meters. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition offers pre-expedition consultations to help you plan your training and ensure you are fully prepared for the challenge.

To book your Everest and Lhotse Expedition, simply reach out to Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition via our website or email. We will provide a detailed consultation to discuss your mountaineering experience, physical condition, and goals for the expedition. After an initial discussion, we will provide a tailored itinerary, and assist you with permits, equipment, and any other pre-expedition arrangements. Once you confirm your participation, we’ll begin the planning process to ensure everything is in place for your journey.

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