Pokalde Peak (Dolma Ri) is one of the most popular trekking peaks in the Everest region. Nepal Mountaineering Association categorizes Pokalde (5806m) as a Group B Climbing Peak. It is quite popular among trekkers who want to go beyond trekking and gain some climbing experience in the Everest region.
Located just 12 km away in the southwestern direction from Mt. Everest, Pokalde Peak stands tall at the height of 5806 m or 19049 ft. Pokalde Peak offers a spectacular view of towering snow-capped mountain peaks over the clear blue sky. We offer an exciting package of Pokalde Peak Climbing that combines the incredible trekking adventure with peak climbing expedition.
The trail moves along the same route as the classic Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek begins with an adventurous flight to Lukla. The Lukla airport is one of the world’s smallest airports with a 527 runway and a deep gorge at the end. We will then trek towards Namche Bazaar passing through villages of Phakding, Jorsale, Monjo. We pass through alpine forests of rhododendron and oak trees.
Namche Bazaar is a commercial hub of the Khumbu Region where we acclimatize for the first time. You will trek in the splendid alpine forests, icy glaciers, rocky hills in the lap of the Himalayas. You will experience the culture and lifestyle of the local Sherpa community. The trail then leads us to Tengboche where you can find the Tengboche Monastery, which is the oldest monastery and spiritual hub of the entire region.
From Tengboche, you will ascend steeply up to Kala Patthar. The enchanting sunrise on the backdrop of the majestic Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and other surrounding mountains is a once in a lifetime experience. We also pass through pristine Himalayan water streams and rivers through suspended bridges. The trail then moves towards Pokalde Base Camp where we start our ascent to the summit.
The trail to the summit moves along an isolated route that leads up to the Chhukung valley. The Pokalde Peak is located in the south of the Chhukung valley and passes through the Kongma La Pass(5535m). You can enjoy a marvelous view of the mountains like Mt Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Ama Dablam, (6,812 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m) and many others in the Everest massif. There is a small hanging glacier on the northern side of the peak.
After spending quality time at the summit and experiencing the stunning view from the peak, we will descend to the Base Camp. The trail further leads to Namche Bazaar and then to Lukla. The scenic mountain flight from Lukla takes us to Kathmandu. Prior experience in trekking is necessary and a basic level of fitness. The Best Time for Pokalde Peak Climbing is the Spring season(March to May) and Autumn season(September to November).
Pokalde Peak offers a unique experience of climbing a high peak and trekking the foothills of the Himalayas. Our professional crew of Sherpa guides and climbers provide excellent services during the journey. We assure you of a pleasant and adventurous experience in the tranquility of nature. The complete package is available at a reasonable cost. What are you waiting for? Hurry up! Book your trip now.
Highlights of The Trip
- The ultimate experience of climbing the summit of Pokalde Peak.
- Stunning sunrise on the backdrop of the snow capped mountains from Kala Pathar.
- Breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan range of mountains, including Mt Everest, Mt Cho Oyu, Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu, Mt Nuptse, Mt Baruntse, and Ama Dablam among others
- Exploring the culture and tradition of the indigenous Sherpa people
- Stunning close-up view of Mt Everest from the highest placed Hotel in the world, the Everest View Hotel
- Adventurous scenic flight to and from Lukla
- Incredible hospitality of the Nepalese people
The Best Time for Pokalde Peak Climbing
Most climbers attempt Pokalde Peak climbing in the Autumn season. A small window is also available in the spring season. However, there are risk factors involved like freezing weather and avalanches during winters and monsoon.
Spring (March-May)
The wildflowers bloom all over the trails during the Spring season. The rhododendron blooms in abundance during this season and paints the hills pink and red. In addition to this, the weather is pleasant, and there is no chance of rainfall or snowfall. Spectacular views of the snow capped mountains over a vast blue sky is overwhelming.
Autumn (September-November)
The peak season for trekking and climbing in Nepal is Autumn. Trekkers and mountaineers from all over the world flock the region during September, October, and November. The favorable weather and soothing climate act as a crucial factor for this season being trekkers favorite.
The monsoons clouds would have long gone, and the skies are bright and clear. You will get a spectacular unobstructed view of the snow capped mountains. The temperature is ideal for trekking and expedition. There might be occasional snowfalls that deposit snow on the top of the peak that glistens the rocky summit in pristine white.
The temperature during the daytime reaches 20 degrees Celsius in high altitudes. Nights are colder in comparison with dipping to 5 degrees Celsius. The most prominent festivals, like Dashain and Tihar, also fall during this period. The lodges and guest houses get packed during this period, and you need Book in advance to be safe from any inconvenience.
The Difficulty Level of Pokalde Peak Climbing
The difficulty level of Pokalde Peak climbing is moderate to hard. The hiking ranges from 7-8 hours on average for more than two weeks in high altitude. The air pressure and oxygen levels are at a bare minimum. Acclimatization at regular intervals is essential.
Slow, gradual walk, and hydration minimize the risk of high altitude sickness. The routes include steep climbs and deep descents. You will pass through alpine forests, passes, glacial lakes, deep gorges, base camps, and others. The climb of the Pokalde summit is not technical. You don’t need to use crampons and ice axes and other climbing gear.
However, you will need the assistance of ropes near the top of the summit. There is a short technical section near the vertical scrambling where fixed rope use is necessary. The terrains are exposed, and thus the summit should not be attempted in bad weather. The peak should not be attempted in poor weather as it increases the risk by a considerable amount.
Pokalde Peak climb is relatively less challenging as compared to the Island peak, the Lobuche peak, or the Mera peak climb. The distance from the base camp to the top of the summit is just 650 meters. The challenges you face are the sections of loose rocks which require the assistance of ropes. For trekkers with previous climbing experience, the ropes might not be necessary.
Prior trekking experience in high altitude with functional physical fitness and stamina is a plus. Exercise regime and jogging training two weeks ahead of the trek is a must. Trekkers should mention their pre-existing conditions if any to the team in advance.
Pokalde Peak Climbing Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Pick up from the International Airport, transfer to Hotel & well come dinner.
Day 02: Preparation day.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2640m) Overnight in Lodge.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3446m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 05: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar (3446m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 06: Trek to Tengboche (3800m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 07: Tengboche to Pheruche (4200m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 08: Trek to Labuche (4900m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 09: Trek to Kalapther (5545m) O/N Gorakshep (5150m).
Day 10: Trek to Everest Base camp and overnight at Gorakshep.
Day 11: Trek to pokhalde Base camp (5200m) overnight in Camp.
Day 12: Pokhalde summit and overnight in Base camp.
Day 13: Trek to Chukung (3710m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 14: Trek to High king on chukung Ri & trek back to Pangboche.
Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazar overnight in Lodge.
Day 16: Trek to Lukla (2800m) overnight in Lodge.
Day 17: Lukla to kathmandu by flight and transfer to Hotel.
Pokalde Peak Climbing Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Pick Up From The Tribhuvan International Airport, Transfer To Hotel & Welcome Dinner
Upon your arrival at the airport, our representative will pick you up and you and transfer to the Hotel. You can relax at the Hotel where the team members will brief you about the trip in detail. We organize a complimentary welcome dinner in the evening.
Day 02: Preparation Day
We complete the necessary paperwork other formalities regarding Pokalde Peak expedition gets completed on this day. A formal meeting gets organized with fellow team members and the team leader.
The team leader also checks the equipment used in the trekking and climbing. You might need to replace the gears with new ones if the team leader finds them to be not of the industry standard. There are many mountaineering equipment and gears available for purchase and rent in Kathmandu.
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu To Lukla and Trek To Phakding (2640m), Overnight in Lodge
We will take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. The spectacular mountain flight takes about 40-45 minutes. Landing on the 527 m runway with a deep gorge at the end is a crazy experience. Lukla is the gateway to the entire Khumbu and Everest region.
We meet our porters and guides and begin our trek journey. From Lukla, we start our trek by following a gradual uphill trail passing through the left bank of the Dudh Koshi river. The trail passes along several Mani walls before arriving at the village of Ghat.
From Ghat the trail goes up and down until finally arriving at Phakding where we stay overnight.
Flight duration: 40-45 minutes
Walking distance: 9 km
Time duration: 4 hours
Day 04: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3446m), Overnight in Lodge
After an early breakfast, we start our trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar. First, we cross a small stream and climb up to the village of Bengar. We pass through the village of Monjo and Jorsale to arrive at the entrance of the Sagarmatha National Park.
After completing formalities at the main entrance of the national park, we make a steep climb of 600m to reach Namche Bazaar, the commercial hub of Khumbu region. The Namche bazaar also called the “Sherpa Capital,” has many shops, hotels, cafes, banks, government offices, and others. We will spend the night in a lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Walking distance: 12 km
Time duration: 6 hours
Day 05: Acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3446m), Overnight in Lodge
We will rest on this day and acclimatize at Namche Bazaar. Acclimatization is essential in these high altitude conditions where the oxygen levels and air pressure are the bare minimal. It is advised by experts to keep moving and not stay idle even on acclimatization day.
First, we visit the Sherpa Museum, which gives an incredible insight into the culture and lifestyle of the Sherpa people. We can hike up to the Syangboche airstrip to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Himalayan range of snow-capped mountains. An uphill climb from the Khumjung will lead us to the Everest View Hotel.
The Everest View Hotel is the world’s highest placed Hotel. The stunning close-up of Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Ama Dablam, (6,812 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m) and others will overwhelm you.
You can enjoy the beautiful sunset over the panorama of snow-capped mountains. Alternatively, we can also hike up the Khunde and Thame village located just above Namche Bazaar. We will stay overnight in a lodge Namche Bazaar.
Day 06: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3800m), Overnight in Lodge
We start our trek from Namche and end in Tengboche. We trek in the banks of free-flowing Dudh Kosi river. An uphill trek over the ridge and a small hike later we will arrive at Khyangjuma.
From Khyangjuma, a stone paved trail descends to Phunki Tenga. We then climb a short hill to arrive at a delightful pine forest that further leads us to Thyangboche. After trekking for almost five hours, we reach Tengboche where we pay a visit to Tengboche monastery.
You can find a twenty-foot sculpture of Lord Buddha and various other religious monuments. There we will observe prayer ceremony in the evening where the Buddhist chants and musical instruments play an essential part. The service will refresh you and awaken you spiritually.
We proceed to experience the enchanting views of the sunset from the viewpoint. The sunset is observed over the breathtaking panorama of snow-capped mountains like Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and others. We will spend the night in a lodge at Tengboche.
Walking distance: 9.5 km
Time duration: 5-6 hours
Day 07: Trek from Tengboche to Pheriche (4200m), Overnight in Lodge
The trek from Tengboche starts on a path with lots of steps. We pass along many Mani stones carved with the Tibetan Buddhist chant of “Om Mani Padme Hum.” We make our way to Dingboche and cross the Imja River through a suspension bridge.
You might experience some altitude sickness as the elevation rises above 4000m. We finally arrive at Pangboche(3860m) after covering significant distance. The oldest monastery in the region welcomes us in Pangboche. From Pangboche, we make a final climb to the village of Pheriche(4371 m).
There is a Trekkers post run by volunteer doctors from the west. There the doctors will check you for acute altitude sickness and medicate you if necessary. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Pheriche.
Walking distance: 8.3 km
Time duration: 5-6 hours
Day 08: Trek from Pheriche to Lobuche (4900m), Overnight in Lodge
From Pheriche, we will climb up to Dulgha enjoying the unbelievable sight of snow-capped mountains like Ama Dablam, Tabooche, Thamserku, Lobuche, Cholatse, and others where we will stop for some tea and snacks. We will find our way to the Chorten memorial dedicated to between the trail of Dulgha and Lobuche.
We pay our respects to all the climbers who have perished on their way to Mt Everest and surrounding mountains. Nuptse, Cholatse, Thamserku, and several other magnificent peaks. Closest view of Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori, and Mahalangur Himal. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Lobuche.
Walking distance: 7.7 km
Time duration: 5-6 hours
Day 09: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5150m) via Kala Patthar (5545m), Overnight in Gorak Shep (5150m)
We will make an early trek to Kala Pathar. The trail is rocky and covered in glacial snow. The trek is made early in the morning so that we will be able to witness the marvelous sunrise from Kala Pathar. You can experience the fantastic sight of the sun rising from the gap between the mountains and turning the snow-white mountains golden.
Kala Pathar also offers a 360-degree view of Mt Everest (8848m) and other snow-capped peaks. Kala Patthar (5555M) is one of the highest points of the trek. It is an excellent viewpoint of Mount Everest. Along with Everest other spectacular peaks are also visible from Kala Pathar.
From Kala Patthar, we will climb up gradually to the small settlement of Chukhung. Along the way, we have great views of Island Peak and Lobuche Peak. We will then trek to Gorak Shep from Kala Pathar. Gorak Shep is a flat field below Kala Patthar and the last stop where you will find few tea houses.
The trail is rocky and covered in snow. You need to be extra careful while walking theses terrains. After reaching Gorak Shep, we will set up our camp and stay overnight.
Walking distance: 5-6 km
Time duration: 4-5 hours
Day 10: Trek from Gorak Shep (5150m) to Everest Base Camp and Back to Gorak Shep, Overnight in Camp
From Gorak Shep, we will trek to Everest Base Camp. The trail passes through Khumbu Glacier and Icefall. From Gorak Shep, we will hike up to the dangerous Khumbu Icefall. Then you will climb to Everest Base Camp (5364m). The trail is mostly rocky path and glacial.
We will spend some time at the campsite enjoying the bustling atmosphere full of climbers. The Khumbu Icefall and the glaciers are in the magnificent view. The trail is an uphill climb for most parts and a small frozen lake lies around the base camp area. You will need to pass the Lobuche pass(5100m) before we arrive at the Gorak Shep. We will stay overnight at camp.
Walking distance: 7 km
Time duration: 4 hours
Day 11: Trek from Gorak Shep to Pokalde Base Camp (5200m), Overnight in Camp
You will trek to Pokalde base camp via Kongma La Pass (5535m). The view of the vast basin scattered with frozen lakes and Pokalde Peak from Kongma la pass is magnificent (5,806 m). The trail makes a gradual ascent to the campsite.
You will enjoy the magical views of mountains like Mt. Nuptse (7,861 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,414 m), and Mt. Makalu (8,463 m), Mt Ama Dablam and many others. You will ascend to the High Camp.
The Sherpa crew will quickly set up the camp and begin preparations for setting up higher camp at higher altitude. We stay overnight on a tented camp.
Walking distance: 4.5 km
Time duration: 3-4 hours
Day 12: Pokalde Summit and Overnight In Base Camp
We start the trek early in the morning to reach the summit before noon as the harsh winds in the afternoon create obstacles in the climb. We follow the instructions of expert veteran climbers and head towards the summit of the Pokalde Peak.
The trail follows a challenging path covered in stones. The trail finally arrives at the narrow rocky summit of Pokalde Peak. From the top of Pokalde Peak, we can overlook the sweeping panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains of Mt Makalu, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and other peaks in the Khumbu region.
Our tiring climb to the summit gets rewarded with stunning views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Baruntse, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak and other surrounding high mountains in the Khumbu region. We will spend short quality time at the summit before descending following the same route and head towards the base camp.
Day 13: Trek from Base Camp to Chhukung (3710m), Overnight in Lodge
We make our way to Chhukung from the base camp passing through the Kongma La pass. The glacial path is slippery, and you should be careful on every step of the way.
Chukkung village is on the left fork of the Imja Khola. The place was traditionally a yak pasture with zero habitation. Few lodges have opened in recent times and we stay overnight at a lodge in Chhukung.
Walking distance: 9 km
Time duration: 4-5 hours
Day 14: Trek from Chhukung to Pangboche via Chhukung Ri, Overnight in lodge
After a beautiful climbing experience of Pokalde Peak climbing, we trace back passing through the Kongma La Pass to Chhukung. You can choose to hike the rocky knoll of Chhukung RI. The top of the Chhukung Ri offers astounding views of Lhotse, Mera peak, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Baruntse and several others.
We continue our trek towards Pangboche. The trail goes downhill through the hillside covered by rhododendron and juniper trees. During the spring season, rhododendron flowers paint the hill pink and red.
After reaching Pangboche, you can pay a visit to the famous Pangboche Monastery, which is one of the oldest in the region. We spend the night at a lodge in Pangboche.
Walking distance: 15 km
Time duration: 7-8 hours
Day 15: Trek from Pangboche to Namche Bazaar, Overnight in Lodge
We start our trek early from Pangboche towards Namche Bazar. The trail descends steeply downward as we push ourselves continuously on the harsh terrain. We cross the suspension bridges over the serene Dudh Koshi river and its tributaries several times during the trail.
The trail becomes smooth and natural here onwards. We pass through the alpine forests of rhododendron and oak trees while overlooking the snow-covered peaks in the distance. The Sherpa villages along the way give us incredible insight into the Buddhist culture and tradition of the region.
Buddhist mani walls and prayers flag welcomes us throughout the trail. The path finally arrives at the village of Sansa. Sansa is a major, major trail junction in the Everest region. After the trail moves into a steep wooded slope passing Kyangjuma, we finally arrive at the commercial town of Namche Bazaar.
We can spot various wildlife such as mountain goat, snow leopards, pheasants, and others along the way. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Namche Bazaar.
Walking distance: 10 km
Time duration: 5 hours
Day 16: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2830m), Overnight in Lodge
We trek through the same route as earlier. The trail passes through dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees. We hike to Lukla to Monjo. There are few short uphill climbs in mostly downward trails.
We cross the Dudh Koshi river thrice in the route via suspension bridges. After a final uphill climb of almost 45 minutes, we reach Lukla. We push ourselves for one last to arrive at the village of Lukla. We stay at a Lodge in Lukla for the night.
Walking distance: 15 km
Time duration: 7-8 hours
Day 17: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel
We take an early morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla. The adventurous flight will take almost 40-45 minutes. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you can board a flight to your desired destination.
Flight duration: 40-45 minutes
Important Notice:
The flight from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu is bound to delays and even cancellation based on unfavorable weather condition. You might want to add extra days on your trip for safety.
