• Duration:18 Nights 19 Days
  • Difficulty: Very Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude: 5806m
  • Group Size: 1-12
  • Activity: Trekking and Climbing
  • Pick Up: TIA Airport

About Pokalde Peak Climbing

Pokalde Peak Climbing (5806m), offers trekkers the chance to experience a Himalayan summit in the Everest region. Pokalde Peak, also known as Dolma Ri, is one of the shortest and easiest trekking peaks in the Everest Region. The altitude and possibility of snowy conditions provide enough challenge to make it exciting however. Following the same route as the Classic Everest Base Camp Trekking, an additional three days are scheduled for the ascent of Pokalde Peak. Pokalde Peak can be easily climbed in half a day by a fit and acclimatized group.

After ascending Kala Pattar, we descend to Chhukung, and follow the yak trail toward the Kongma La pass, 5535m, which connects the Khumbu Valley with the Chhukung valley. The base camp of Pokalde Peak is located just below the Kongma La pass, overlooking a large lake. The Kongma glacier is approximately a one hour climb above the base camp.

The rocky Pokalde Peak has very little snow cover during the main trekking season. To reach the summit it is a mere 650-meters climb from the base camp, but it is an exhilarating climb which requires short sections of scrambling up and over rocks. The final stretch to the summit involves a short section of near vertical scrambling which gives a taste of mountaineering, as we need to be protected by rope. Although it is considered a simple trekking peak, sections of Pokalde are quite exposed so it shouldn't be attempted in poor weather.

Most ascents of Pokalde Peak nowadays are from the Makalu side of the mountain, via Kongma La Pass, 5535m. Some of the prominent mountains visible from the summit include Makalu, Ama Dablam and Pumori.

The best season for Pokalde Peak Climbing is from March to May (Spring) and from September to November (Autumn). However, the winter is also a great time to climb if you are well prepared for the cold weather. In the crisp and cold month of December, the views of the mountains are crystal clear and there are fewer tourists around. The duration of the Pokalde Peak Climb can be lengthened or shortened according to your preference. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expedition will arrange every detail of your Pokalde Peak Expedition; lodge accommodation, food, as well as all the necessary climbing and camping equipment.

Planningto climb Pokalde Peak in 2023 and 2024

Guaranteed Departures.. Please get in touch for further details.

Highlights of Pokalde Peak Climbing

  • Relatively an easy climb but much more rewarding view from the Pokalde Peak summit
  • Basic Rock and Ice climbing experience required for the climb
  • Hike to the Classic Everest Base Camp en route and witness the surreal view up from Kala Pattar (5545m)
  • Well set up support and logistics team at Pokalde Base Camp
  • Qualified and expereinced Sherpa Climbing Guides

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, 1,300 m/4,265 ft

Flying to Kathmandu is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. On a clear day, you will get a panoramic view of the snow-capped towering peaks. After completing the visa formalities in airport, collect your luggage downstairs. As you exit the airport terminal, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives carrying your name on our company’s’ signboard, Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition. Moving forward, you’ll be taken to your hotel in our vehicle. Once you reach at hotel, you’ll be welcomed by them as well and after that you can relax in your room or go for a walk exploring the city.

  • Hotel

The Managing Director of our company will be there to meet you in the hotel and provide more information about the expedition. Your dues must be cleared before we proceed on the trip. We will finalize paperwork-permit for your trip and make a final check of your climbing equipment. In case you need additional trekking equipment, you will have a chance to buy it today. Sightseeing tours of Kathmandu Valley are also an option.

  • Breakfast and Welcome Dinner
  • Hotel

An early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla 2804m takes only 35 minutes. On arrival in Lukla, a guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakdingma.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Namche Bazaar, widely known as the capital of Khumbu and the gateway to Everest, has many good hotels and lodges. This is the biggest village along the entire Everest region.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

We will spend a day here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinner air. We will visit a museum which displays the traditions and customs of the Sherpa people. We hike up to the Syangboche Airport around Everest View Hotel where we can see the panoramic view of Khumbu peaks.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

On reaching Tengbuche, our guide will tell you about the local monastery situated there. You will get to observe a prayer ceremony either in the evening or tomorrow morning depending on how the trekking day went.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

The trail descends through a beautiful forest, then crosses the Imja Khola (river) and passes through the village of Pangboche. The route continues through summer pastures where the yak graze, to Dingboche, 4400m, the second place to stop and acclimatize.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today For acclimatization, we will hike to chhulung Ri to enjoy the view of Ama Dablam and Island Peak, and return to Dingbuche.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

We continue our trek through the wide valley beneath the impressive peaks of Cholatse and Tawache on the left. We then turn right and take a steep climb towards the foot of the Khumbu Glacier to Dugla. The trail switchbacks through the boulders of the glacier's terminal moraine. At the top of this climb, you'll see many stone cairns built as memorials to the many Sherpas who have died while climbing Mt. Everest. We continue to climb to Lobuche, 4910 m, from where you will see the awesome Mt. Pumori Peak, 7220m, very well.

NOTE: Some breathing problems may arise today due to the altitude. To prevent altitude sickness, a good rest and plenty of water is necessary. You will crave some Chocolates or Snickers at this point. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today we trek on past Gorak Shep 5130m, to reach (Everest Base Camp 5,364m/17,598ft). After celebrating our efforts and photographing this achievement, we return back to Gorak Shep.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

An early morning climb will take us to our destination peak, Kala Pattar (5545m/ 18,192ft) following the Khumbu Glacier. From Kala Pattar, we will see the elegant sunrise and enjoy the scenic view of the surrounding mountains. Then we descend for lunch at Lobuche, 4915m, and continue descending down to Dingbuche.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

We start our venture towards the Pokalde peak by departing from Lobuche and heading towards the Base Camp. The trails are somewhat rocky, and the ascent is quite steep as we pass via the Kongma La Pass (5,535) towards the base camp. After walking for about 6 hours, we finally reach Pokalde Base Camp. Here, our representatives will guide you with some mountaineering tips for the big climb on the following day. Overnight stay at Pokalde Base Camp.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Camping

Today, we have to start early in the morning to climb through the rock channel. Although it is not difficult, there are many short rock steps to be crossed before you come across the other side of the channel. Then the trail leads to the ridge line where you traverse the snout of the summit . After enjoying the summit view, you will descend all the way to Chhukung. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

We trek down to Dingboche and again pass through the Pangboche village, the same trail we used on the way up. The trail leads down to a river. After crossing the river, we walk for an hour up through the forest and reach Tengbuche after continuously to Namche.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Boosted by all our new red blood cells, we rush down the footpath toward Sagarmatha National Park gate, in Jorsale. Later, Lukla's footpath leads us back to the first villages we saw two weeks ago: Gumila, Phakdingma, and Choplung. The high peaks disappear behind the hills. In Lukla, this last evening in the mountains is the ideal opportunity for a farewell party with your sherpa guides and porters, and a good chance to sample some chhyang, try Nepali and Sherpa dance and look back on the memorable trekking experiences. The staff will be hoping for some precious and well deserved tips.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

You will take an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu and will be transfered to your hotel.

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

After breakfast, there will be free time for souvenir shopping and other independent activities. 

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

We will accompany you to the International Airport in time to board your flight back home. 

  • Breakfast

What's Included

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
  • Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, Four nights on Twin share (Bed and Breakfast) Basis.
  • Accommodation during Trek ; local lodges 13 nights (twin-share rooms ,beds with comfortable foam mattress and pillows)
  • Accommodation during Camping ; Meals during 1 night camping (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tang juice, fruit, tea and coffee)
  • All standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
  • English speaking experienced Sherpa guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
  • All Camping Equipment required during the climb; sleeping tents/mattresses, kitchen tent, kitchen equipment,etc.
  • All required Personal and Group Climbing gears
  • Climbing rope, Ice screws, Snow bar
  • Trekking cook, kitchen staff, Trek Sherpa and other support staff while on Pokalde peak climbing
  • One Sherpa Guide-Assistant if the group size is more than 4 climbers.
  • Porters: One porter for Two Trekkers basis in all of our Climbing Trips
  • Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • Annapurna Foothill’s Duffle bag for Trekking.
  • Annapurna Foothill's T-shirt
  • Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc. 
  • First aid medicine kit.
  • Pokalde Peak Climbing Permit
  • Sagarmatha National Park Fee, TIMS permits & all required permits or Official Documentation.
  • Round-Trip airfare between Kathmandu and Lukla (Airport Tax Included)
  • All government and local taxes
  • Pokalde Peak climbing certificates issued from the respective body of Nepal Government.
     

Personal Climbing Gears includes:

  • Crampons
  • Harness
  • Ice Axe
  • 2 x Tape slings
  • 2 x Screwgate Karabiners
  • Descender / Abseil Device (Jumar)
  • Prussic Loops
  • Helmet

What’s Excluded

  • Your Personal Travel Insurance.
  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
  • Lunch & Dinner in cities - allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurants.
  • Beverages (soft drinks, mineral water,boiled water and beer).
  • Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
  • Any personal expenses not mentioned in above services.
  • Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early return from Trek (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary

Useful Info

Why Climb Pokalde Peak with Annapurna Foothills Treks?

Annapurna Foothills Treks has been running climbing expeditions for over 10 years. Annapurna Foothills Treks reaches for the highest ethical business practices. Our team of mountaineering guides is dynamic, professional, and qualified as instructors.

Why Climb with a Sherpa?

Annapurna Foothills Treks is here to save you the unnecessary expense of going with an expatriate company and an expatriate guide. Our qualified and experienced guides are well able to guide your expedition safely and can provide an accurate cultural perspective as well. Additionally, when you book with Annapurna Foothills Treks, you are supporting the Sherpa community who are dependent on the trekking/climbing industry for their livelihood.

Our climbing guides are dedicated mountaineers and license-holders who always put your safety first. They use harness and ropes below the every peak whether for crevasse danger or steep slopes. Our Sherpa guides are there to fix the rope as well as teach climbers how to fix the rope or set up a belay for glacier travel.

While some people spend unnecessarily to go with a foreign company, others risk their lives to save money by going without a guide. We encourage you to play it safe, and climb with our experienced guides. Our packages are reasonably priced and afford the safety of an experienced guide who will allow you the independence you desire.

To be safe, you dont need shops worth of Karabiners, ice-screws, snow stakes and rock racks- You need a Sherpa guide as a partner, some rope, a few bits of protection, good weather and overriding urge to die of old age.

The routes we suggest are almost always the most straightforward. Under good conditions, none of the routes are challenging for skillful technical alpinist. Safety-conscious amateurs have potential to provide satisfaction and experience without much risk.

Sherpa Support Staff:

Even our support staff are well experienced, so you can look forward to a well organized trip. The relationship we have developed among us over the years makes for a wonderful exchange of ideas, laughter and assistance. Your personal packs will be carried by the porters, saving you time and energy to fully enjoy the surrounding environment.

Each staff member at Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions is insured for their appropriate roles. (Some companies are cutting corners here.)

Logistics for Pokalde Peak:

You can fully enjoy the world of mountains unfettered by the rigors of food preparation, lodging and logistics. Annapurna Foothills Treks provides a wide variety of quality meals to keep climbers healthy and strong. Most of the food is flown in from the Kathmandu.


Environmental Responsibility:

Annapurna Foothills Treks practices and teaches the Leave-No-Trace principles. Moreover, we are committed to protecting the land and culture of the indigenous people. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. Annapurna Foothills Treks believe that given the proper information most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment.
 

Altitude Advice:

It is really difficult to head straight up to high altitude for the first time even if you follow the recommended 400m-a-day-rule. Walking, let alone climbing, uphill at 5000m is harder than you think. The trek in is a means of acclimatization and getting fit. Our itinerary is planned to allow rational acclimatization and avoid altitude sickness. We should also plan for few extra days as bad weather may affect the designed schedule. This doesnt guarantee the successful ascent but often avoids the disappointment of a cloudy summit day.

Pokalde Peak Trip Accommodation:

Annapurna Foothills Treks takes great care to arrange the most comfortable accommodation possible throughout your stay. Accommodation is included in the cost of your package.

Our clients enjoy four nights in the Standard Hotel Himalaya , in Kathmandu, before heading into the remote regions and after returning trip. During the trek, eleven nights will be spent in clean and comfortable tea houses/lodges.
 

Travel Insurance:

To must be adequately protected in terms of insurance. You will need special travel insurance for participation in hazardous activities. We recommend a complete travel insurance policy that covers cancellation, lost baggage, theft, injury, liability, medical treatment, death and expenses. Make sure the insurance covers all the activities that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal including trekking and climbing.

If a client requires medical treatment, all hospital expenses, including doctors fees and repatriation costs, are the clients responsibility.

If you are injured and unable to walk in a remote area, a helicopter rescue will be arranged. Annapurna foothills Treks has an agreement in Kathmandu that guarantees payment for helicopter evacuations. We will pay a cash deposit to the helicopter operator and collect the money from you once you have been rescued. Before leaving on the expedition, we will make sure your policy specifically covers mountaineering or alpinism otherwise you may have a difficult time settling the large claim.
 

Flight Delay/Cancellation

Domestic flights to mountain regions can be delayed or cancelled due to bad weather. Be aware that you may have long waits in the airports. From our side, if a flight is cancelled we make sure you get on the next possible flight.

If flight cancellations at the start of your trek delay your trek to the point of disturbing your onward travel schedule, you will be free to choose an alternative trip; there are many excellent options in the Annapurna, Langtang and other regions. If you do not wish to take an alternative trek, and wait in Kathmandu for the flight to Lukla, your original trek may be shortened due to the days lost in waiting. In such case, the client will be responsible to bear all additional expenses including food and accommodation.

If the client wishes to make an alternative arrangement such as a helicopter flight, Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions will assist in making the booking, but will not cover the cost of the alternative arrangement. The refunded money of the unused flight ticket would be credited to the concerned client, however.

There will be no refund for the days of the trek that are missed. You will not be entitled to any refund for services in the package (ie hotel, transport, flight) that you did not use due to the cancellation.

It is advisable to allow one or two extra days at the end of your trip to allow for flight delay/cancellation.