Pokalde Peak (or Dolma Ri) is a mountain peak of Nepal situated 12 km southwest of Mount Everest. Pokalde Peak is one of the shortest and easiest trekking peaks in the Everest Region. The majority of the 650m climb from base camp requires little more than walking with short sections of scrambling up rock.
During the trekking seasons this rocky peak is scarcely covered by snow. Despite its lack of any great technical difficulty, it offers trekkers the prospect of reaching 5,800m in elevation and supurb views from the summit, particularly to the South East, North West and West. Other prominent mountains visible from the summit include Makalu, Ama Dablam and Pumori. Because of its relatively low difficulty and impressive summit vista’s for this altitude, Pokalde is a popular commercial tourist peak in Nepal for those wishing to climb a Himilayan peak without needing to use ice axes and crampons.
The first ascent of Pokalde Peak was made in April 1953 via the ridge adjoining the Pokalde summit with the Kongma La high pass (5535m). This ridge continues from Kongma La to the slightly higer Mehra Peak (Kongma Tse) at 5820m and beyond. Hence the prominence of Pokalde Peak is modest at 271m (889 feet). Most ascents of Pokalde Peak nowadays are made by skirting the opposite Makalu side of the mountain.
Pokalde Peak can be easily climbed in half a day by a fit and aclimatised group with appropriate leadership. Despite its low difficulty, sections of Pokalde are quite exposed so it shouldn’t be attempted in poor weather. Doing so would significantly increase the difficuly of the climb above that of a “simple trekking peak”. The final pitch to the summit also involves a short section of near vertical scrambling which for amateurs should definitely be protected by rope.
The base camp of Pokalde Peak is situated in a raised “amphitheatre” style valley with a large circular lake in the middle below the Kongma La pass. About 40 minutes from the base camp is the Kongma glacier. This glacier offers ice walls suitable for ice climbing training by appropriately equipped and motivated groups. The glacier is said to be receding in size.
Foot print evidance of significant Snow Leopard activity has been witnessed in the vicinity of Pokalde Peak base camp. This is despite the popularity of the area in being the gateway to both a major trekking peak as well as a high pass.
Even during the trekking seasons, it is not uncommon for overnight temperatures at base camp to be in excess of two decades below freezing.
Day 01- Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters).
There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel.
Day 02- Sight seeing around Kathmandu valley.
Your sight seeing trip will start at 9 AM in the morning after the breakfast. You will be provided private vehicle and professional tour guide. Places we visit are Pasupatinath temple, Buddhanath, Monkey temple, Bhaktpur durbar square and Kathmandu durbar square. The afternoon includes a final briefing and preparations for the trek. Overnight at hotel.
Day 03- Fly to Lukla (2804 meters) trek to Phakding (2610 meters) 3 hours.
An early morning start takes us to Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu for the 35 minute scenic flight to Lukla at 2804meters. On arrival at the airport guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding at 2610meters. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 04- Trek to Namche Bazaar (3441 meters) 5.30 hours.
We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Sagamartha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views. Namche Bazaar known as the Gateway to Everest which is home to many quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, Money exchange, internet cafe and a bakery. Namche is one of the biggest villages along the whole Everest trail. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 05- Namche Bazaar Acclimatization day.
We will spend a day here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning of the air. As well as a short trek there is a museum celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa people to visit. Today we hike up the Syangboche Airport, and around Everest View Hotel. From this point, we can see rewarding views of the Himalayas with a stunning sunrise or sunset over the panorama of the Khumbu peaks. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 06- Trek to Tengboche Monastery (3860 meters) 5 hours.
We trek to an altitude of 3860meters today. On reaching Tengboche your guide will tell you about the local monastery situated here. The group will be taken to observe a prayer ceremony either in the evening or morning depending on how the days trekking went. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 07- Trek to Dingboche (4350 meters) 5.30 hours.
From Thyangboche the trail drops to Debuche, crosses another exciting suspension bridge on the Imja Khola, and climbs to Pangboche amongst thousands of mani stones. Our uphill trek continues, taking us to the quaint traditional Sherpa village of Dingboche with its exquisite views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. We take our time so we avoid getting affected by the altitude. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 08- Trek to Chhukung (4710 meters) and trek back to Dingboche. 4.30 hours.
Today you can enjoy another day for acclimatization. We will have trip to Chhukung valley via the Imja Khola valley to get a marvellous view of the surrounding mountains, especially Lhotse’s massive south wall, then return to Dingboche in the evening. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 09- Trek to Lobuche (4910 meters) 5 hours.
Today, the trail continues along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and passes by stone memorials for climbers who have perished on nearby summits.We continue to climb as we are heading to the altitude of 4910 meters at Lobuche which is really just a few huts at the foot of giant Lobuche peak. Some breathing problems may arise today due to the altitude. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 10- Trek to Everest Base Camp (5365 meters) then trek back to Gorak Shep (5180 meters). 7 hours.
After an early morning start leaving Loubuche, we head up to Everest Base camp (5365meters) you will have unobstructed views of many mountain giants like Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse and Lhotse looming directly ahead and on all sides. Then we make our return to Ghorakshep at elevation of 5180 meters at noon for our overnight stay. Overnight at Guesthouse.
Day 11- Trek to Kalapattar (5555 meters) then trek down to Lobuche (4930 meters) 6 hours.
After reaching Base camp of Everest our aim today is to trek Kalapattar (5555meters). We start early to reach the viewpoint that offers some of the best views of Mount Everest as well as other panoramas of the surrounding mountains. We then descend to Lobuche at elevation of 4930 meters. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 12: Trek to Gorekshep( 2-3 hours)-5,160m/16,925ft:
The trail continues climb up to Gorekshep. It takes a couple of hours walking up to Kala Pattar (Black Rock) 5,545m/18,192ft; this small peak offers the best views of Mt. Everest, Pumori and Ama Dablam without climbing. Overnight in Gorak Shep (5,160m/16,929ft).
Day 13: Visit Everest Base Camp & Trek back to Lobuche (6-7hours)-4,930m/16,170ft:
This day leads you to the Base Camp of Mt. Everest (5,357m/17,575ft) walking through rocky and glacial trails where climbers gather for summiting Everest. After all, we Continue trek return to Lobuche (4,930m/16,170ft), for overnight.
Day 14: Trek to Chhukung (5-6 hours)-4,730m/15,518ft:
After breakfast trekking via Khumbu Glacier to Kongma La Base Camp (5,000m/16,404ft) continues ascending to Kongma pass (5,535m/18,159ft) then descending a gradual walks up the Imja Khola valley to Chhukung a small summer settlement. Overnight in Chhukung (4,730m/15,518ft) where you make final preparation for climbing. Over night at lodge.
Day 15: Chhukung to Pokalde Base Camp (3 -4 hours):
Day 16: Chhukung / Base Camp:
Day 17: Climb the peak and back Chhukung:
Day 18: Extra day in case of bad weather:
Day 19: Chhukung / Dingboche (4343 m.):
Day 20- Trek to Tengboche. 6 hours:
The trail makes a gradual descent through scrub junipers and around Mani stones as it follows the hillside. The trail passes many Mani walls in deep rhododendron forests where crossing after the Imja khola, the trail climbs many carved Mani stones to Pangboche. Pangboche Gompa is the oldest in Khumbu; a visit will be well worth. Walk down to the valley from where the trail is shallower through alpine meadows. Followed by climb gradually up to Tengboche (3,870m/12,697ft) where the biggest monastery lies in the whole of Khumbu.
Day 21- Trek to Namche Bazaar. 5 hours:
Walk down from the rear of monastery and continue down until you reach Phunki Tenga. Climb up gradually through a forest. Once you are out of the forest, you will be walking along a ridge from where you can see down on your left some of the deepest gorges of Nepal. In spring, the rhododendrons will look superb making the valley even more beautiful. Reach Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft), for overnight.
Day 22- Trek to Lukla (2804meters) 6 hours:
Trek back to Lukla along the same trail, although it always looks different coming from the opposite direction on arrival in Lukla you will have time to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek. You can have a good time with two local alcoholic beverages ‘Chang’ or ‘Rakshi.’ Feel free to dance with your crewmembers in the Sherpa way.
Day 23- Morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla:
Enjoying your last glimpse of the mountains you have recently visited for one last time on the 35 minute Scenic flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu we are met and transferred back to our starting hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 24- Leisure day in Kathmandu:
It’s also spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla.
Day 25-Extend your holiday or back to home:
After this amazing trekking and climbing if you are more interested in continuing for other activities like Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure, Kathmandu Shopping Tour or Scenic Everest Flight, cycling, and trekking in other areas or more; Mosaic Adventure Treks & Expedition can organize as your desire. If you decide to leave Nepal we will transfer to airport for your onward destination.
NOTE: The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. The trip can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.
Note : On adventure trips of this type, weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.
Q. How fit do I have to be and is trip for me?
A. Climbing Peak provides the most adventurous experience with spectacular scenery through remote glaciated valleys and passes. This trip requires you to have an above normal level of fitness which will assist with climbing Peak. Any person suffering from a pre-existing medical condition or diseases must seek medical advice before considering this trek. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.
To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least two to three months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest. They are physically strong, sharp-witted and have an incredibly positive attitude towards a life that we would consider extremely tough. There is something about a trek in the Himalaya that draws you back time and time again. For keen walkers it is a paradise and even avowed non-walkers find that one foot just seems to follow the other, drawn by the appeal of what lies beyond.
Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the Airport upon my arrival?
A. Yes, our Airport Representative will be there to greet you outside of Terminal Hall, he/she will be displaying an Kiwi Adventures Treks & Expedition sign with your name on it. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Q. What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu and in trekking?
A. We use standard rooms from three/four star hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes teahouses/Lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you sleeping bags if needed (which need to return after the trip) but it is good idea to always have your own sleeping equipment. We usually provide single and double rooms as well as the occasional dormitory. The dining room is downstairs around a fire. All food will be cooked to order in the little kitchen. You should not enter the kitchen unless asked to do so.
Toilet Facilities – On trek, common toilet facilities are available at Tea Houses.
Q. What sort of food can I expect in trekking?
A. Most teahouses (lodges) cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, dhal bhat, bread, soups, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. In many larger villages you may find some meat on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps.
During the Camping, our export camping cook can prepare specially requested food if you advise. In any case, you will have similar fare to teahouses.
Each day dinner and breakfast are used to take in the same lodge you spend the night. Lunch will be taken on the way to destination.
Q. What sort of transportation you use?
A. Kiwi Adventures Treks & Expedition is all about providing you with local insights as well as adventure, with that in mind, where we think you will get more out of your holiday by using different means of transport that is what we do. Using a variety of private transport is an integral part of our Himalaya tours and enhances the experience!
We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, van, land cruiser. These small light vehicles are more manoeuvrable and flexible enabling us to take you through the Narrow roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.
Q. What is the best season for this trip?
A. The best time for this trip is October to November and March to May.
Q. What is the weather & temperature like in trekking?
A. Weather in the mountains is notoriously difficult to predict. At night it is generally cooler with the days being warmer, and in winter (January and February) it will be bit colder but the days can be quite beautiful and warm if the sun is out. There will be snow any time of year. It is also important to make sure that you can stay warm and dry in just about any conditions. Expect the unexpected! The temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to -15 deg C low.
Q. Can I charge my digital camera or other batteries on my trip?
A. These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring your adapters!
Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?
A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls.
Q. Can I use credit cards in the places visit in trekking?
A. In most cities yes, to some extent, however once you leave those cities behind you will only need cash.
Q. How much additional money do I need per day?
A. In Kathmandu, you can allocate US$ 10 – 25 for a lunch / dinner. It’s all depends on your spending habits. US$10 to 20 US$ a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates and few drinks in trekking.
Q. Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?
A. This is a difficult thing to judge. We have seen everything from 20USD to 1000 USD per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small way to show your guides and local porters thanks for their help. The level of the tip should reflect the level of personal involvement with your guide.
Q. Is the water OK to drink? Do I need to bring purifying tablets/filter?
A. In most places bottled water is readily available. But it is important for you to drink normal water, so bring purifying tablets with you. During camping we provide boiled water to drink.
Q. Are the Kiwi Adventures Treks & Expedition staff insured?
A. Our company insures all our trekking staff, including guide, cook, Sherpa and porters.
Q. What essential documents do I need to bring with me on tour?
A. *Valid Passport – must be valid for up to 6 months after you return from your tour, keep a separate photocopy.
*Travel insurance, keep a separate photocopy
*Cash and Traveller’s Cheques, keep numbers and proof of purchase separate
*Flight tickets
*Emergency contact numbers for T/C’s, banks, insurance, family contacts.
Q. Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?
A. A trekking holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.
Q. Do you use yaks/porters on the trek or do we carry all of our own gear?
A. Whilst on the trek, our porter will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream etc only.
Q. What opportunities will I have for shower along the trek?
A. In major places, we arrange guesthouse with hot shower. And in rest of the places, hotel water in bucket will be provided for shower; it would cost you extra about USD 5-8 per shower.
Cost Includes
• Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus.
• Standard twin sharing accommodation in three/four star hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included.
• Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private car / van / bus.
• All your standard Meals as per itinerary during the trek and Climb.
• Hot drinks during camping.
• Tea Houses / Lodges, Guesthouses and Tented accommodation during the trek.
• A government licensed English speaking Guide during the trek and climb.
• The required number of staff and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek.
• Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine for all staff.
• Everest National Park permits.
• Pokalde Peak Permit fees.
• Garbage Deposit Fee.
• General Climbing equipment such as Rope, Ice Screw, Snow Bar etc.
• Airfare from Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu including airport departure tax in Kathmandu and Lukla Airport.
• Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu.
• All our government taxes.
• Official expense.
Cost Excludes
• Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
• Your travel insurance (compulsory).
• International airfare and airport departure tax.
• Nepal entry visa, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. You will also require 2 passport size photos.)
• Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks laundry.
• Personal trekking and Climbing Equipment.
• Tips for trekking staff. (Tipping is expected).
• Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
