LAKPA RI EXPEDITION

LAKPA RI EXPEDITION

LAKPA RI EXPEDITION

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Lakpa Ri expedition is a window of opportunity to view Mount Everest up close and experience the tremendous power and character of the world’s tallest mountain, but far enough away to appreciate the true geometric perspective of this mighty mountain peak. The Lakpa Ri expedition is considered one of the technically easiest seven-thousander in the world. 

At the height of 7045 m above sea level, Lakpa Ri is an alluring mountain that divides the upper eastern Rongbuk glacier and the upper Kharta glacier. 

British mountaineer George Leigh Mallory made its first ascent during his first reconnaissance expedition to Everest. On and around the Lhakpa Ri, you can follow the traces of this fascinating history up close and at the same time have the best chance of successfully mastering your first seven-thousander. 

The trek route shares the three lower camps with Mt. Everest. The 7066 m high North Col of Mt. Everest is a spectacular place with an incredible view and is located directly on the northern Tibetan main route for climbing Everest. It can be easily climbed in connection with the Lhakpa Ri. 

Lhakpa Ri is located on high snow and rock ridge above Advanced Base Camp. The ascent slopes are 20 to about 40 degrees steep and feature solid snow and rock formations. Lhakpa Ri and Everest North Col are accessed via a steeply ascending snow and ice wall with fixed ropes, jumars, ice axes, and crampons.

Tremendous views of mighty Himalayas at the confluence of Nepalese and Tibetan culture with the grassy landscape and hospitable company of professional Sherpas with Yaks will be the award you get along with the preparation for next eight thousander venture through this expedition. 

There are no technical difficulties on the Lhapa Ri so that even newcomers to the expedition have a good chance of reaching the summit. Though the success to the summit is relatively easy, you should have altitude experience from longer stays above 5,000 m. 

Mountaineering ice and glacier experience in moderately steep terrain up to 40° in handling rope, ice ax, and crampons, as well as independence on the mountain and team spirit, are necessary. Mountaineers in good physical condition have very good chances of reaching the summit. You need a good level of cardiovascular fitness, which for most people requires some exercise through running, hiking, and maybe a few visits to the gym.

To get the most out of your journey, you should begin your excursion in the Spring season commencing from March to May. The weather is generally pleasant during this period, and the sky is clear. There is an abundance of flowers blooming during this time, with rhododendrons, in particular, adding a pop of color to the landscape. Another favorable season for your travel would be autumn, starting from late September to early December. Clear and cool weather, little dust in the air, explicit visibility, and clear blue sky will add a flavor to your path. It is best to avoid the winter season beginning from late December to February but be ready to face intense cold and closed passes. The summer with the rainy season from June to August is not considered favorable as you may encounter heavy rainfall and leeches with slippery roads and landslides. 

Expedition Cost 

The estimated total cost of the Lakpa Ri expedition varies from $11,000 to $13,000 per person. The overall cost includes permit fee for Tibet and Lakpa Ri entry, transportation, accommodation and meal fare, Nepal government taxes. However, the package cost excludes your personal expenses such as personal equipment and toiletries, meals in Kathmandu, personal medical and travel insurance, and Nepal tourist visa tariff. 

You can obtain a Nepal tourist Visa upon your entrance to Tribhuvan International airport. Our journey to the Lakpa Ri expedition may take 30-35 days, so it is preferable if you issue a 60-day visa at $120 per person. Set aside $200-$300 for your personal expenditure and tips to porter and guide, internet usage, and battery charging. 

Medical and travel insurance at the cost of $150-$200 for 30 day time period is an added bonus that makes your trip safe and pleasant. 

$25-$30 per person per day is more than enough for your a day or two stay in Kathmandu. 

Before embarking on a journey, our agency will take care of all the permits required. You need two permits: an expedition permit that depends on the season you have picked for your trek. Spring trip will cost you $500 per person, the autumn trek will charge $250 per person, and the autumn and winter expedition costs $125 per person. The second permit you require is for your entry in Tibet, for which they will charge between $70 to $200 depending on your nationality. 

Lakpa Ri Climbing Route

The journey begins with either a flight or a drive from Kathmandu. Flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa makes your trip shorter and more comfortable. If you choose to spend your leisure time to be in closer contact with Nepalese tradition, bus or jeep drive from Kathmandu to Lotingri. However, the common route is via Everest Base Camp. You will be ascending along the Rongbuk Glacier, past huge ice towers and deep crevasses. The first difficulty you will face as the flanks become steeper up to about 40°, and the glaciated ridge gets narrower until you reach the exposed summit ridge. The reward for your long day hiking will be exceptional views of Lakpa Ri, Makalu, Everest, Changtse, and Rongbuk glaciers. The Lakpa Advanced Base Camp and starting point for climbing the summit is at the confluence of the Changtse and Rongbuk glaciers.


Trip Details

  Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
  • Day 2: Rest Day in Kathmandu
  • Day 3: Flight to Lhasa
  • Day 4: Rest Day in Lhasa
  • Day 5: Drive to Shigatse
  • Day 6: Drive to Tingri
  • Day 7: Drive to Rongbuk Base Camp
  • Day 8: Rest Day in Rongbuk Base Camp
  • Day 9 to day Day 19: Ascend Lakpa Ri
  • Day 20: Return to Base Camp
  • Day 21: Drive to Shigatse
  • Day 22: To Lhasa
  • Day 23: Departure from Lhasa
  • Day 24: Rest Day in Kathmandu
  • Day 25: Return to Home

Itinerary

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