The Lobuche East Peak Base Camp Training Package by Rise Expeditions, under the expert guidance of Pasang Kaji Sherpa (IVBV/UIAGM/IFMGA/NNMGA), is meticulously designed to equip you with essential high-altitude mountaineering skills. Beginning in Kathmandu, you will engage in rock climbing and bouldering sessions, focusing on familiarizing key knots, climbing techniques, and proper gear usage. This foundational training sets the stage for the technical challenges that lie ahead.
After a scenic flight to Lukla, the journey continues with a trek through the stunning Khumbu region, culminating in a visit to the Everest Base Camp before reaching Lobuche Base Camp (4,950m/16,240ft). At Base Camp, the training intensifies with advanced rescue systems such as C pulley, Z pulley, and active rappel, as well as critical ropework skills, including ascending, descending, and traversing technical terrain. you will also learn high-altitude camp setup, gear organization, and essential self-preparation techniques.
As training progresses, climbers will develop vital alpine survival skills, including constructing emergency shelters and navigating complex routes. At High Camp, you will learn essential techniques such as anchoring, ice axe use, and efficient snow travel methods. The training will also cover crevasse rescue techniques .
The program culminates in a summit attempt on Lobuche East Peak (6,119m/20,075ft), where you will tackle glaciers and steep slopes, ultimately reaching the summit with breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
This training package is designed to build a solid foundation in mountaineering, focusing on Lobuche Base Camp and High Camp. For additional skills related to snow, such as anchoring and ice axe use, training will take place above Base Camp. During climbing seasons, snow might not be visible at Base Camp, as the snow line lies at 5,500 meters.
At Kathmandu and Base Camp
Indoor and Outdoor Activities at Kathmandu:
During your time in Kathmandu, you will engage in a series of educational activities designed to enhance your climbing skills both indoors and outdoors. The indoor activities will focus on foundational skills and equipment familiarization. You will begin by learning the art of knot making, a crucial skill for climbing safety. You will be instructed in various essential knots, including the Figure-Eight Knot, which is used for tying into a harness, the Bowline Knot for creating a fixed loop in a rope, and the Clove Hitch for securing ropes to anchors. Mastery of these knots ensures that you can effectively manage rope systems and secure yourself and your climbing partners during climbs.
Additionally, you will become acquainted with climbing shoes, which are vital for achieving the necessary grip and precision on climbing surfaces. You will learn about the different types of climbing shoes, such as aggressive, moderate, and neutral, and understand their specific applications based on climbing needs. The session will also cover essential climbing gear and equipment, including harnesses, carabiners, belay devices, and ropes. Through practical demonstrations and hands-on practice in an indoor climbing environment, you will gain a solid understanding of how to properly use and handle this equipment.
The outdoor activities will build on this indoor training by applying the learned skills in a real-world climbing environment. You will take your knot-making skills and gear knowledge outdoors, where you will practice these techniques on natural climbing surfaces. This hands-on experience will help you adapt to the challenges of outdoor climbing, such as varying rock textures and environmental conditions. You will have the opportunity to use climbing shoes and gear in a practical setting, navigating rock faces and adjusting your equipment to ensure safety and efficiency. This transition from indoor practice to outdoor application is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of climbing techniques, preparing you for successful climbs in diverse environments.
Technical Rescue Systems:
Develop proficiency in advanced rescue systems, focusing on the practical application of C pulley and Z pulley techniques. These skills are crucial for executing crevasse rescues and managing rope-based emergencies in high-altitude environments. The training also covers active rappel methods, ensuring climbers can perform controlled descents with precision.
Advanced Ropework:
Master essential ropework techniques, including ascending, descending, and traversing on fixed lines. This training is tailored to the technical terrain encountered at high altitudes, enhancing your ability to move efficiently and safely during the climb.
High-Altitude Camp Setup:
Learn the intricacies of establishing and managing a secure camp at altitude. This includes site selection, advanced tent setup, and gear organization, all of which are vital for maintaining safety and operational efficiency in harsh alpine conditions.
Self-Sufficiency and Preparation:
Focus on developing self-sufficiency through gear optimization, altitude acclimatization strategies, and mental preparation. This training ensures you are fully equipped to handle the physical and psychological demands of high-altitude climbing.
Alpine Survival Techniques:
Gain knowledge in essential alpine survival techniques, such as constructing emergency shelters, interpreting weather patterns, and navigating complex terrain. These skills are critical for maintaining safety and responding effectively to unexpected challenges during the expedition.
At High Camp of Lobuche East Peak
Anchoring Techniques:
you will learn how to create secure anchors in snow, crucial for safety in mountaineering. This includes techniques like deadman anchors, where an object (like a buried ice axe or a specially designed snow anchor) is buried in the snow to act as an anchor point, and snow stakes, which are driven into the snow to provide a solid anchor for ropes.
Ice Axe Use:
This training will cover the proper use of an ice axe, an essential tool in mountaineering. you will practice self-arrest, a technique used to stop a fall on a snow or ice slope by digging the pick of the ice axe into the snow. They will also learn ice axe belaying, a method of securing a climber using the ice axe as an anchor, and basic climbing techniques that involve using the axe for support and stability.
Snow Travel Methods:
you will develop efficient movement skills on snow-covered terrain. This includes kicking steps, where climbers use their boots to carve steps into the snow for better traction, and the use of crampons, spiked devices attached to boots, to maintain grip on icy surfaces.
Crevasse Rescue Techniques:
This critical training will teach you how to perform a crevasse rescue—a method of extracting a climber who has fallen into a crevasse. It involves using ropes, pulleys, and other gear to safely pull the fallen climber out. Rope team management will also be covered, focusing on techniques for traveling safely in glaciated terrain as a connected team.
Snow Shelter Construction (optional):
If time allows, you will learn the basics of building snow shelters, such as quinzhees or snow caves, which can provide emergency protection in harsh conditions.
Note: This training does not make you a master climber. It is designed as a foundational program to prepare you for climbing Lobuche East Peak. The primary goal is to familiarize you with mountaineering activities and equip you with the necessary skills and confidence to undertake this ascent and mountaineering activities.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be there to welcome you. Our representatives will help you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel. Once you reach the hotel, your rooms will be allocated and you can take rest at your rooms.
Over two days in Kathmandu, the outdoor and indoor activities training focuses on building essential skills for mountaineering. On Day 1, you start with an orientation to climbing gear and knot techniques indoors followed by practical sessions on basic rock climbing techniques, including footwork and body positioning. The second day advances to outdoor, where you will refine their techniques and tackle complex problems. The afternoon integrates all learned skills through climbing simulations, emphasizing terrain traversal and rope handling, ensuring a solid foundation for alpine environments.
An early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas. After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, you will begin your trek to Phakding. The trail descends through forests and along the Dudh Koshi River, passing small villages and reaching Phakding after approximately 3-4 hours of trekking.
The journey continues from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. The trail crosses the Dudh Koshi River multiple times on suspension bridges and ascends steeply after Monjo, entering Sagarmatha National Park. The day ends with a challenging climb to Namche Bazaar, where you will stay overnight.
To acclimate to the altitude, you will spend an additional day in Namche Bazaar. Activities include a hike to the Everest View Hotel for stunning panoramic views and visits to the Sherpa Culture Museum and local markets. This day helps your body adjust to the higher altitude and prepares you for the trek ahead.
Leaving Namche Bazaar, the trail offers spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trek descends to the Dudh Koshi River before climbing again through rhododendron forests to Tengboche. Here, you can visit the famous Tengboche Monastery and enjoy the serene mountain environment.
From Tengboche, the path leads through lush forests and over suspension bridges before climbing to the village of Pangboche. The trail continues to Dingboche, with views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse along the way. This village provides a stunning setting for acclimatization and rest.
Another acclimatization day in Dingboche includes a hike to Nagarjun Peak, offering magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. This hike aids in acclimatization by exposing you to higher altitudes before returning to Dingboche for the night.
The trek to Lobuche involves passing through Dughla and climbing the steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Along the way, you will see memorials to climbers who have perished on Everest. The day ends at Lobuche, where you will rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
From Lobuche, you will trek to Gorakshep and then continue to Everest Base Camp. The trail follows the Khumbu Glacier, offering spectacular views. After reaching and exploring Everest Base Camp, you will return to Gorakshep for the night.
An early morning hike to Kalapatthar provides one of the best panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. After soaking in the sunrise views, you will trek down to Lobuche Base Camp, where you will camp and prepare for the summit push.
Begin training for the climb. Technical Rescue Systems, Advanced Ropework,High-Altitude Camp Setup,Self-Sufficiency and Preparation,Alpine Survival Techniques.
A short but steep trek takes you to Lobuche High Camp. The trail becomes more challenging as you gain altitude. Upon reaching high camp, you will set up camp and spend the night, readying yourself for the summit attempt the following day.
The day at Lobuche East Peak High Camp will begin with early preparation for snow skills training. you will focus on essential techniques such as anchoring, ice axe use, and efficient snow travel methods. After a midday lunch break, the training will continue with crevasse rescue techniques and potentially building snow shelters. The day will conclude with a debriefing session at the high camp, wrapping up the day’s learning and practice.
Summit day begins early, navigating glaciers and steep, icy slopes to reach the summit of Lobuche East. The ascent is demanding but rewards climbers with unparalleled views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other peaks. After celebrating the achievement, you will descend to Pheriche.
The contingency day will be set aside to ensure flexibility and safety in the itinerary. If weather or other unforeseen circumstances disrupt the planned snow skills training or the climb of Lobuche East Peak, this day will be used to complete these activities at the high camp. By including a contingency day, we can adapt to any challenges and maintain the integrity of the schedule, ensuring that all you have the opportunity to complete both the training and the peak climb without compromising on safety or quality.
The return trek to Namche Bazaar retraced your steps through familiar terrain. The descent offers a different perspective of the stunning landscape, and you will enjoy the comfort of the lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Your final day of trekking takes you back to Lukla, passing through various villages and forests. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will celebrate the successful completion of the trek with your team.
After breakfast, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the city, or do some last-minute shopping. A farewell dinner in the evening provides an opportunity to reflect on the journey.
On your final day, you will have time for any last-minute activities before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
Rise Expeditions suggests the following list of gear and equipment to have for the Trek to EBC climb Lobuche East Peak with Training at Base Camp:
Climbing Gear
Headwear
Bodywear (Clothing/Layering)
Handwear
Footwear
Personal Kit
First Aid Kit
Miscellaneous