Cholatse Expedition

Cholatse peak is located in the Khumbu region. It is a peak that attracts climbers with its beauty and technical difficulty. Cholatse stands as a pyramid shaped peak. To climb Cholatse peak needs technical experience, as well as the use of the climbing equipment.

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Difficulty Level

Hard

Best Season

Autumn / Spring

Duration

27 Days

Elevation

6,440m

Group Size

3 - 8

Trip Type

6000M Expedition

2024
6000M Expedition

  • Starts from Kathmandu, Nepal

Overview

  • A technical 6,000m snow/ice ascent
  • Spectacular exposure on an enchanting route
  • Remote Himalayan classic peak

Our line up the southwest ridge involves climbing steep snow and ice pitches linking two camps that we place alpine style on our way to the summit. It is on the brilliant ridge separating the Gokyo and Khumbu valleys. Cholatse peak is connected to Taboche peak, via a long ridge. The route ascends through snow slopes leading to a crux section on the rock. Once past the difficulties, the climbing culminates in a steep and superb ridgeline that plateaus onto the summit dome.

 

There is a lake just below the pass to the east, and in Tibetan Cho is a lake, la is pass and Tse is peak so Cholatse means lake pass peak. The main attraction of Cholatse peak is panoramic views of the Himalayas peaks. We will go through Cho La Pass (5,420m) to acclimatize before moving to the challenging alpine-style climb of Cholatse. Comparatively, Cholatse is one of the hardest peaks to climb in Nepal. The mountain has not been climbed by commercial companies and none of the routes to the summit have been ascended more than a few times.

Day

  • When you arrive at Kathmandu airport, a representative from Alpinist Climber Expedition will be there to greet you and when you have gone through customs formalities, our representative will be on hand to transfer you to your hotel. Once you’re checked in, get ready for the trekking guide and other participants to go through the final preparation for the trip in the evening, get ready to enjoy Nepali cuisines.

    Altitude 1,330m
    Activities Welcoming in Nepal
    Accommodation Hotel

    The Guide goes through preparation and briefing with the team and formal procedures regarding the Ministry of Tourism you will be engaged in exploring the fascinating sights of the city. Our guided tour will lead you to some UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu valley. This final day is also for final necessary arrangements and a last-minute briefing on the expedition and grouping with the expedition team.

    Altitude 1,330m
    Activities Kathmandu
    Accommodation Hotel

    And the day has come to head towards the home of Cholatse Peak, Khumbu (Everest) region. For that, you will hop into the aircraft which will take just 40 minutes to drop you in the Lukla.

    The air time will be quite beautiful when you’re flying over the entire Himalayas from a plane window seat. We will arrive in Lukla at Tenzing Hillary airport (2800m). After a quick rest, we will get on track to Phakding. The route passes the Dudh Koshi river, you will pass through it and a forest of rhododendrons and pine trees. From the riverbed of Dudh Koshi, there are few uphills and downhills to reach Phakding.

    Altitude 2,610m
    Activities Flight and Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    We will be hiking from Phakding Village to Namche Bazaar, the main center of Sagarmatha National Park. This will be one of the toughest hiking days as we will ascent 1200 meters up. On the contrary, at the end of the day, you will find yourself in the busiest city of the trip.

    Altitude 3,440m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    Before going to higher elevations, it is important to acclimatize so this day we will hike up to Everest viewpoint. We will enjoy the amazing view with hot coffee and tea. After this pleasant stroll, we head back to rest as the next day brings in the real hike.

    Altitude 3,440m
    Activities Acclimatisation
    Accommodation Lodge

    After a day’s rest and acclimatization at Namche, we then approach one of the most beautiful and tranquil parts of this expedition, we continue the hike with a steep ascent through rhododendron forest which blooms in April.

     

    Tengbuche monastery is one of the most popular monasteries among Buddhists around the world. The views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama dablam and Nuptse are visible towards the north while Thamserku and Kangtega stand towards the south with striking views. We will also join in some prayer ceremonies and rest for the day.

    Altitude 3,860m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    Pheriche is a village located in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. Situated at an altitude of 4,371m. We take on a high traverse that passes through the village of Pangboche (3,985m), a pleasant village with great views. We will stop at Pangboche to rest and eat lunch and after lunch we will visit an old Buddhist monastery to take blessings to continue our hike. Therefore, it’s common to see Himalayan Tahr and Danphe, the Himalayan pheasant on the trail.

    Altitude 4,371m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    During this acclimatisation day, we can hike to the top of the Nangkartshang peak altitude of 5,083 m. It takes approx. 2-3 hours to walk to reach the top of Nangkartshang peak, from this peak we are able to see a beautiful mountain view and back to Pheriche.

    Altitude 5,083m
    Activities Acclimatisation
    Accommodation Lodge

    We will wake up early in the morning at 7am to pack our duffle bags before coming for breakfast. We will stop at Duglha for Lunch and tea. Duglha is located at an altitude of 4620m making it one of the highest human settlements in the world. From Duglha we will go out to the Everest base camp trail and follow the Dzongla or Cho La Pass trail.

    Altitude 4,830m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    We will hike through Chola pass (5420m)

    Altitude 4600m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    Altitude 4700m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Camping

    Altitude 6440m
    Activities Acclimatisation and Summit Push
    Accommodation Camping

    Altitude 4038m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    Altitude 3440m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    Altitude 2860m
    Activities Hiking
    Accommodation Lodge

    Altitude 1300m
    Activities flight
    Accommodation Hotel

    Altitude
    Activities
    Accommodation Hotel

    The price of your trip includes the following:

    1.  Cholatse climbing royalty fees
    2.  Certified IFMGA mountain guide with his daily wages and full insurance etc
    3.  Garbage disposal & management fees
    4.  Sagarmatha national park permit and Tims entry fees
    5.  Summit route fixing fees
    6.  Hotel / Airport pick up and drop by private tourist vehicle
    7.  Standard accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast for three nights
    8.  Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla both way
    9.  Alpinist Climber Expeditions duffle bag, Cap, and T-shirt per member
    10.  Accommodation & food in the local lodge are on full board during the trip
    11.  Medical kit during the trip
    12.  Porters to carry trekking and expeditions gear (1:1 ratios)
    13.  Base camp single dome tent and hot shower
    14.  Camp 1, camp 2, tents are sharing members and guides
    15.  High food for members and guides
    16.  Experienced Sherpa support with his wages, full insurance
    17.  All our government taxes, vat, tourist service charges
    18.  Satellite Phone for emergency case
    19.  All accommodation, wages, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all staff
    20.  All official expenses

    The price of your trip does not include:

    1. International flight tickets
    2. Nepal entry visa fees
    3. Meals in Kathmandu
    4. Personal clothing and Climbing equipment
    5. Personal First Aid Kit
    6. Alcoholic beverages
    7. Personal travel insurance and medical / rescue insurance
    8. Special drone permit fees
    9. Tips For Guides, Sherpas, and Porters
    € 6300 EURO

    Details

    Our budget cost option presents an affordable alternative for individuals seeking a mountaineering experience without the higher price tag of the regular and premium options. This package retains the same level of service as the regular option, including group guiding with a minimum of 5 people per group, offering the chance to share the journey with fellow adventurers. The budget cost package encompasses professional guidance from our skilled team, a well-structured itinerary, and accommodations in budget hotels and lodges throughout the trip.

    € 7500 EURO

    Details

    • This cost is for up to 2 pax per person

    Our regular cost option offers an excellent value for adventurers seeking an unforgettable mountaineering experience. With this package, you’ll have the opportunity to attempt stunning peaks, receive professional guidance from our experienced team, and enjoy a well-planned itinerary. Designed for groups, the regular cost option requires a minimum of 2 members to join the expedition, ensuring a shared experience and camaraderie throughout the journey. It’s an affordable and exciting way to embark on a memorable mountaineering adventure.

    € 12500 EURO

    Details

    • Private 1:1 guiding service for each member
    • More flexibility
    • Travel consciously
    • Enjoy exclusive benefits

    For those seeking a truly personalised and flexible adventure, our premium cost option is the perfect choice. With the premium package, you’ll receive exclusive benefits such as 1:1 private guiding, allowing for a more personalised experience tailored to your specific goals and preferences. This option provides the utmost flexibility in scheduling and ensures that you receive dedicated attention from our expert guides throughout the expedition. Indulge in the luxury of private guiding and elevate your mountaineering experience with our premium cost option.

    Alpinist Climber Expeditions is known for its expertise in leading pure alpine style expeditions, and 1:1 private guiding with a certified IFMGA mountain guide as well as high-quality service throughout the expedition. Having more than a decade of years of experience in the planning and coordination of mountaineering expeditions, we achieve in ensuring each expedition is a successful one with the best possible experience for our climbers while focusing on our 3 primary goals which are, reaching the top, returning safely, and having fun! Safety is always our priority.

     

    Our IFMGA mountain guides are the best and most experienced in the guiding field. you’ll find having a strong grasp of technical climbing, expedition, and high-altitude experiences, along with strong interpersonal skills. Our teams offer the best support system available that ensures the highest chance of success.

    For the Cholatse expedition, we will take a minimum size of 4 people, and a maximum of 8 people hence spaces are limited. With 8 people there will be two 2  IFMGA mountain guides and 4 or 5 climbing Sherpas.

    Prakash Sherpa (Pemba), CEO / IFMGA Mountain Guide

    The expedition is being organized by Prakash Sherpa, director of Alpinist Climber Expeditions and a veteran of decades of High altitude expedition guiding and organizing. All of our trip guides have extensive experience at high altitudes and a proven record of safety, success, and compatibility. The number of guides is determined by the team size but the normal ratio of guides to members is 1:4. You will find our guides companionable and strong expedition members with considerable power and willingness to see you achieve your goals.

    Support
    A team of Climbing Sherpas will assist with load carrying on the mountain and we have a 1:1 Sherpa to climber ratio on the summit day.

    Body-wear

    1. Down suit
    2. Down jacket
    3. Waterproof jacket and over-trousers that goes over your alpine boot
    4. Balaclava – recommended BUFF or similar covering nose and face
    5. Long sleeve thermal shirt and trousers
    6. Fleece jacket and trousers

    Hand-wear

    1. Liner gloves – thin and warm
    2. Down mitts
    3. Gore-Tex Primaloft glove.
    4. Mountain gloves – recommended water and windproof
    5. Smartwool mountaineering socks (2 pairs – new)
    6. Ultra-soft running / Hiking socks (2 pairs – new)
    7. Mountaineering boot – recommended La Sportive, etc.
    8. Alpine boot – recommended La Sportive and Scarpa, etc.

    Climbing Equipment

    1. Climbing Helmet (UIAA tested)
    2. Harness – recommended Petzl or BD
    3. Goggles with UV protection and anti-fog system
    4. Sun glasses UV protection
    5. Headlamp – recommended Petzl or BD
    6. Spare batteries – recommended Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries
    7. Ascender (Jumer) – recommended Petzl or BD
    8. Abseiling device – recommended Petzl or BD ATC guide
    9. Screw gate carabiners (2 x large, 2 small sizes) recommended Petzl or BD
    10. Bent gate carabiners (2 medium sizes) – recommended Petzl or BD
    11. 6 mm rope – recommended 2 meters UIAA tested
    12. 6 mm rope – recommended 5 meters UIAA tested
    13. Dynamic 8 mm rope – recommended 2 meters UIAA tested
    14. Classical alpine ice-ax – recommended Petzl, Grivel, or BD
    15. Crampons that fit mountaineering boots – recommended Grivel, Petzl, or BD

    Other equipment

    1. Sleeping bag (comfort rated – 20 degrees
    2. Large size duffle bag with padlock
    3. Headlamp with spare batteries
    4. Water bottles 1 liter
    5. First aid kit
    6. Trekking poles
    7. 45–75-liter Rucksack
    8. Swiss army knife with a multi-tools system or Leatherman
    9. 1-liter stainless steel thermos – that works in extreme weather conditions

    Headwear

    1. Sun hat or Normal Cap
    2. Fleece or woolen hat
    3. Sunglasses with UV protection
    4. Buff scarf / thin face mask

    Handwear

    1. Fleece or woolen thin gloves
    2. Gore-Tex mitten gloves

    Bodywear

    1. Gore-Tex jacket
    2. Gore-Tex pant
    3. Hiking pant
    4. Fleece trousers and jacket or warm jumper – recommended not thick but warm enough that fits inside the Gore-Tex pant
    5. Anti-sweat T-shirt
    6. Thermal inner trouser
    7. Down jacket with hoodie

    Footwear

    1. Trekking boots
    2. Slipper
    3. Trekking socks (4-5 pairs)
    4. Snow gaiter

    Other equipment

    1. Sleeping bag (comfort rated – 20 degrees
    2. 45-liter rucksack with cover
    3. Large size duffle bag with padlock
    4. Headlamp with spare batteries
    5. Water bottles 1 liter
    6. Thermos
    7. First aid kit
    8. Trekking poles

    Washing kit & Toiletries

    1. Waterproof washing kit bag
    2. Towel – medium size
    3. Washing soap, towel, tooth pest, toothbrush, etc.
    4. Sun lotion enough +50SPF (including total bloc for lips, nose, etc.)
    5. Handwash & sanitizer
    6. Toilet paper (you can buy it in the Lodges)
    7. Wet tissues

    Please read carefully our terms and conditions. Terms and Conditions are a very important part of the trip for members who are willing to book Expedition, Peak climbing, or trekking with Alpinist Climber Expeditions.

    The terms and conditions contain the information to the client regarding the procedures of Booking Confirmation, Payment and Refund System and Cancellation policy, and other important information about your trip. The Booking Terms and Conditions constitute a legally required contract between Alpinist Climber Expeditions along with you for the services to be provided. The details of our Terms and Conditions are listed below.

    Currency
    • Alpinist Climber Expeditions accepts payment in Euros (€) and US dollars (US$). The currency will be
      applied based on the location of the client. Once the initial deposit/payment has been paid, all
      subsequent fees will be applied in the same currency.
    Deposit
    • When Alpinist Climber Expeditions issues the written confirmation receipt of your deposit amount the
      existence of the booking will be confirmed. Alpinist Climber Expeditions kindly requests you to make a
      deposit of 20% cost of your trip. You are supposed to pay the remaining amount upon your arrival in
      Kathmandu. You need to send your deposit to the Company. In the case of the customized trip, you
      should do a 50% deposit as it will cover all intensive details. We accept a last-minute booking with 100%
      payment in some cases.
    Amendments
    • If you wish to make amendments to your tour arrangements we require notification to Alpinist Climber
      Expeditions in writing. If any government permits, flight tickets, or insurance has been issued and cannot be
      revoked and refunded you will be liable for these costs. You may also be liable for the cancellation fee of
      airfares purchased on your behalf.
    Cancellation Policy

    The future is unpredictable. Notice of cancellation shall be submitted by the client in writing providing
    a reason(s) for cancellation. The refund procedure will be as follows:

     

    • Cancellation before 60 days of the trip, 20% cancellation will be charged.

     

    • Cancellation Before 30 days of the trip 40% cancellation will be charged.

     

    • Cancellation Before 15 days of the trip 60% cancellation will be charged.

     

    • Cancellation Before 07 days of the trip 70% cancellation will be charged.

     

    If cancellation is made within the week of the departure or upon arrival in Kathmandu no
    refund shall be provided. Any remaining payment will be required at this time. The cost of
    Climbing Permit/Insurance/Equipment allowance is not refundable in any period of cancellation.

    Personal insurance - a matter of protection
    • Travel insurance is not included in the tour price, but it is a required condition of booking a trip with
      Alpinist Climber Expeditions and your responsibility to ensure that you are adequately insured for the
      full duration of the trip covering expenses against all possible risks including missed flights, canceled
      trips, baggage loss, emergency medical evacuation, high altitude accidents, and other unforeseeable
      events. All costs for emergency evacuation must be paid in cash in Nepal unless an insurance
      company has agreed to pay the costs on your behalf. It is important to ensure that your personal
      travel insurance covers all of the activities you participate in the Himalayas.
    Client's responsibility
    • The client / You are responsible to insure yourself with an insurance policy that covers
      medical expenses, flight cancellation, trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and any other
      unforeseeable events that may cause loss to you.

     

    • The client is responsible to bear all expenses of personal nature and any extra cost resulted
      due to extended stay because of natural calamities, political strikes, and any uncontrollable
      events.

     

    • The client is responsible to book the flight tickets with a flexible time frame as traveling in the
      The Himalayas can be unpredictable. In case of missed flights, the client shall be solely
      responsible to bear the loss.

     

    • If you wish to add extra services mentioned by the company in the Cost Inclusions
      section of each package, you shall be entitled to bear the extra costs.
    Company's responsibility
    • The company is fully responsible to provide all the services mentioned in the Cost Inclusions
      section.

     

    • The company is responsible to introduce all the team members to guides, Climbing
      Sherpas, Staff, and manager.

     

    • The company is fully responsible to make the best arrangements for food, lodging, and
      accommodation during the trip.

     

    • The company is responsible to hear out the concerns of the member in terms of safety.

     

    • The company is responsible to make prompt arrangements in case of emergencies during the
      trek and expeditions.

     

    • The company is responsible to provide valuable service to the clients and deserves pay to
      the staff.
    Passport and Visa
    • It is your responsibility that you carry a valid passport and have rightly obtained the appropriate
      visas when traveling with Alpinist Climber Expeditions. Please ensure that your passport is valid for 6 months from the Nepal Visa validity date.
    Privacy
    • As part of the booking and permit process, we will need to obtain personal information from each
      client. Your personal will be kept by us in a secure way and none of your private or personal
      information will be disclosed for any other purpose.
    Authority
    • This agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties will be construed and take effect in
      accordance with and be governed by the laws of Nepal.

    Wishing you the best time in Nepal, Come as a friend goes as a family….. The land of Adventure and Hospitality.

    When is the best time to attempt Cholatse?

    The best periods to attempt Cholatse are spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November). The weather during these times in the Himalayan region remains stable, which is perfect for adventure activities. Although, if you want an extra challenge, it is possible to attempt Cholatse during the early winter season but you have to be ready for the extreme cold conditions.

    How hard is Cholatse peak?

    Cholatse Peak is considered a challenging and technical climb in the realm of mountaineering. It is known for its steep terrain, mixed rock and ice sections, which contribute to its difficulty. The difficulty level of Cholatse Peak is generally classified as “highly technical” and D grade in Alpine Style approach. Climbers attempting Cholatse should possess advanced mountaineering skills, including proficiency in ice and rock climbing, as well as the ability to navigate complex and demanding terrain. Keep in mind that the difficulty of a climb can vary based on factors such as snow conditions, individual experience, and the weather conditions.

    What training is needed for Cholatse climb?

    Cholatse peak is a technical climb so that means that a previous experience in a 4000m or 6000m peak is necessary to feel comfortable during the climb. Physical conditioning is also crucial, involving cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and acclimatization exercises. Prior experience with high-altitude climbs and technical ascents is highly recommended to ensure safety and success on the challenging terrain of Cholatse. During the expedition you will be able to learn with our guides the basic mountaineering techniques. We recommend you the Kyajo Ri Expedition where you can prepare yourself in Island Peak before heading to Cholatse.

    What is the approach/route for the climb?

    For Cholatse peak we take the South West Ridge route which is known as the primary path for the expedition. It includes climbing steep sections of snow and ice that connect two camps with the summit. The route follows snow-covered slopes and encounters a challenging part on rocky terrain. Much of the climb takes place on icy glacier surfaces along an open ridge. After the tough segment, the ascent continues on another steep and exposed ridge that eventually levels out on the summit’s dome.

    What is the guide to client ration?

    On Cholatse climbing trip, we provide two different options. The one is 1:3 IFMGA guide to client ratio and the other one is 1:1 private guiding. In both options there will be one lead IFMGA guide and a Sherpa guide to assist you during the climb.

    Who guides Cholatse expedition?

    For the upcoming Cholatse trips in both spring and autumn seasons 2024-2025 our director and IFMGA mountain guide Prakash Sherpa will be leading the expeditions. Prakash Sherpa has several successful 8000m and 6000m climbs including Cholatse and Kyajo Ri twice. Among with him, other experienced guides will assist you during the climb. We want to ensure that our clients will have a safe and successful trip with us.

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